Greetings,
As Okemo passes Day 150 of
the season(4/09), we continue to have winter-like weather; it isn’t very
often that morning temperatures in April are in the mid-teens! The long range
weather forecast looks great for some spring skiing and with riding, with more spring-like temperatures in VT heading into the weekend.
We've been asked about how we
make decisions concerning our closing date, as well as how and when we decide
to consolidate operations. I can tell you that these decision are made with
forethought. We look at many factors, including the long range weather
forecast, snow conditions, and yearly history, as well as lodging occupancy and
advanced online ticket sales. Our decision to consolidate our ski operations
down to one base area was done to concentrate on a smaller footprint, while still providing an enjoyable guest experience. Business levels do come
into play, but we also try to not be wasteful, which can happen with running
lifts, grooming trails, and opening up cafeterias and
restaurants that will see very limited use as we head into mid-April. There have been several guests who have voiced their displeasure and while we
won’t be able to please everyone, I can assure you that we think through
these changes in operation diligently and look to find a compromise. It's still our goal to provide some great skiing and riding for our loyal
season passholders, as well as those who may only come and visit us a few times a
season.
Extending our closing date
was something that was embraced by ownership as well as our management
staff. Having such great conditions on the mountain, we all felt that
this was the right decision. Extending the season required some managers
to adjust their schedules and cancel or move their vacation time, but we knew
it was what our guests would expect from Okemo. All Okemo employees were
willing to do what was necessary to keep skiing & riding until April 22nd.
Thanks for your support this
past season ... I can’t thank you enough for skiing and riding with us. A 163 day season is a good one. There were no doubt some weather
challenges in December & January. In February it felt like the season would
end early, but March roared in and was one of the better months on
record.
Okemo prides itself on being
a family for both our employees, as well as for all those guests who spend
their time with us. We are truly humbled by and appreciative of the days you spend with us and for the confidence you have in our
skiing operation, our lodging and all the other departments that make up this
great resort. Skiing will continue for a while longer and while not all the
trails, lifts, lodges or buses will be open or operating, we will continue to
run some lifts, groom lots of trail and keep restrooms open in the Summit Lodge.
Golf will be opening in late
April and the Adventure Zone on Memorial Day. Mountain Biking will soon follow!
Bruce Schmidt
Vice-President &
General Manager
Okemo Mountain Resort
