tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34898943060488796612024-03-05T22:28:53.688-05:00Official Blog of Okemo Mountain ResortOkemo Mountain Resorthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12537794147781066429noreply@blogger.comBlogger508125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-57139399122955030782018-12-08T12:29:00.003-05:002018-12-08T14:44:38.893-05:00PASSHOLDER (or Real.Easy Card User) CHECKLIST<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7); color: #414042; font-family: HelveticaNeueW02-45Ligh, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.375em; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
Are you ready for the winter season? Check off these three steps to make sure you and your pass are good to go before your first day.</div>
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<strong style="font-family: HelveticaNeueW01-65Medi, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: 400;">Step 1 – What does your Pass or ticket look like?</strong></h2>
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<img height="400" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/47580123_10156180684091448_7863536041766944768_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=e9affbfc57ad210de46cc8392544969b&oe=5CA9299C" width="307" /></div>
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ALL old Okemo season passes and Real.Easy cards will no longer work and need to be switched out for a new pass card. If you already have your new pass, go to Step 2.<br />
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Why don’t I have my new pass yet? There are 2 possible reasons:</div>
<ul style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7); color: #414042; font-family: HelveticaNeueW02-45Ligh, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li>It’s probably in the mail. We have been working hard to process and mail out new passes to everyone. You should receive yours within the next 7 business days.</li>
<li>We might need a new photo from you before we can print. Check your email inboxes for an email from @email.snow.com asking you to login and upload a photo and follow the instructions.</li>
</ul>
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Want it sooner? Stop by a Resort Services desk at Okemo any day between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. </div>
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<strong style="font-family: HelveticaNeueW01-65Medi, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: 400;">Step 2 – Release of Liability</strong></h2>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7); color: #414042; font-family: HelveticaNeueW02-45Ligh, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.375em; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
If you purchased your season pass over the phone we may need a signed release form from you before you can ride.</div>
<ul style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7); color: #414042; font-family: HelveticaNeueW02-45Ligh, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li>Check your email inboxes for an email from @email.snow.com asking you to login and sign an ROL and follow the instructions.</li>
<li>Stop <span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0.7); color: #414042; display: inline; float: none; font-family: , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21.92px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">a Resort Services desk at Okemo any day between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. </span></li>
</ul>
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<strong style="font-family: HelveticaNeueW01-65Medi, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: 400;">Step 3 – Check your pass when you arrive</strong></h2>
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When you arrive for your first day make a quick stop at the Pass Validation Station (the tent just outside of the Clock Tower Lodge) to get your pass scanned and checked before heading to the lifts.</div>
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If you need further assistance, feel free to call 802-228-1600.</div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-57335418145531275752018-09-07T16:20:00.000-04:002018-09-07T16:20:33.685-04:00<br />
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Greetings,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Labor Day has come and gone and that is the unofficial start
of fall. The weather doesn’t really say that as we have had some warm days but
it won’t be long when we have some crisp nights. This summer here at Okemo was
a good one. Okemo Valley and Tater Hill golf courses had a strong summer. The
Adventure Zone and EVO Bike Park had many visitors too. Vermont is very popular
in the summer and Okemo is working hard to continue to offer plenty to do
around the resort.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Improvements for the winter have been taking place, and this
has included new snow guns as well as upgrades in snowmaking pipe on Lower
Arrow and Black Out. The replacement of this pipe is somewhat hidden but the
impacts are significant. The snowmaking pipe replacement will make for more
reliable water into the mid-mountain pump station and thus more snowmaking
capacity from that pump station and on the upper sections of the mountain. There
will also be a replacement of the chairlift cable on the Morning Star Triple,
as well as repainting done on the Black Ridge and other lifts. Carpet, roofing
and painting has been done in many of the public spaces of the lodges. In the
Summit Lodge Sky Bar, there will be a new bar to greet skiers and riders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The new wooden bar looks great and it will be
a nice new touch to a great location to stop and get a drink during your ski
day. There continues to be work on WIFI points to enhance connectivity around
the and work is being done on improving recycling options and other lodge
improvements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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The question about the Vail Resorts transaction is what’s primarily
on everyone’s mind. We continue to look at a potential mid-September closing
date. The staff of Okemo, as well as Vail Resorts, is eager to finish this
process and begin working as one company. We are excited about this transaction
happening and understand there will continue to be questions on seasons passes,
ticketing and other items. Once the closing is complete, these questions will
be answered. Tim and Diane will be retiring and enjoying some quiet time, but
most likely staying busy with their grandchildren and hobbies. If you would like
to send a note to the Muellers, feel free to send them an email at <a href="mailto:info@okemo.com">info@okemo.com</a>. All emails sent will be
forwarded to them directly. The mailing address for Tim and Diane is Okemo
Mountain Resort, 77 Okemo Ridge Road, Ludlow VT<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>05149.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Okemo Job fair is scheduled for Saturday October 20,<sup>
</sup>from 10 am to 3 pm, in the Clocktower base lodge. Snowmaking will begin
any time after November 1st and we anticipate opening as soon as possible in
November. Thanks for your support in the past and I am hopeful of your
continued support moving forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Okemo Difference will be continuing and is alive and well! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Bruce Schmidt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Vice-President
& General Manager<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Okemo Mountain
Resort<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-32996095559038507882018-06-07T09:14:00.000-04:002018-06-07T09:14:10.312-04:00<br />
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Greetings,</div>
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As most who are reading this all know, the month of June
brought with it some exciting news for Okemo, Triple Peaks and the Mueller family.
I am so happy for Tim, Diane, Ethan and Erica, that they can go out on top and
that the sale of Triple Peaks will allow Tim and Diane to retire and enjoy some
quality time away from running the ski area. I am also excited about the new
ownership of Triple Peaks – Vail Resorts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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I was working for Okemo when Tim and Diane became the owners
of the ski area. There was a lot of apprehension, unknowns and anxiety amongst
the staff, the community, and skiers and riders of the resort. Much of this
anxiety and uncertainty was quieted down because Tim and Diane and the
leadership team were up front and communicated with the town and employees
about what their vision was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fast
forward from 1982 to 2018 and we have a similar situation. No doubt the stakes
are higher, the resort is larger and there are more employees, but the venue,
Ludlow Mountain, is the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Okemo is going to be purchased by a strong player in the ski
industry and one which has a proven track record of working to provide the best
possible ski and ride experience and to thoughtfully engage and contribute to
the surrounding communities in which it operates. Vail Resorts’ mission says it
all: Experience of a lifetime…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This goes
for guests of the resort as well as employees.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s address the elephant in the room. There will be
changes. And I am hopeful that our loyal guests and supporters will trust that
these changes will have this in mind: providing the experience of a lifetime! I
understand that not all changes will be embraced positively, but if all of us –
staff, loyal Okemo supporters and townspeople – allow some of these changes to
play out, I truly feel that you will be positively impressed with what these
changes do for the resort experience and for our community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Right now there are questions on the season passes and some
of these questions most likely won’t be answered until after the closing. Vail
understands the need to work through the challenges and all of us at Okemo are
working to answer and solve some of these more complex topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Vail is also committing several million dollars to Okemo and
the other resorts for capital improvements. More information will come on this
later, and it is exciting to think of the possibilities.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Moving along, I will work to do my best to keep loyal
guests, supporters and staff, up to date on how things are progressing and what
is happening. Okemo is open for the summer season, two golf courses are open, The
Adventure Zone is open and, of course, Coleman Brook Tavern and Willie Dunn’s
Grill are open for lunch and dinner and Coleman Brook Tavern for breakfast and
weekend brunch.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So I hope you’ll be patient and optimistic. Let’s embrace
the change and congratulate Tim and Diane for a great run and wish them nothing
but the best in retirement.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Bruce Schmidt</i></div>
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<i>Vice-President & General Manager<br />Okemo Mountain Resort</i></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-21468101087966246812018-04-10T08:53:00.003-04:002018-04-10T12:20:12.380-04:002017-2018: 163 Days of Skiing and Riding!<br />
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<span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">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.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">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.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">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 22<sup>nd</sup>.
</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">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. </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a> 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.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">Golf will be opening in late
April and the Adventure Zone on Memorial Day. Mountain Biking will soon follow!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">Bruce Schmidt</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">Vice-President &
General Manager</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;">Okemo Mountain Resort</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
</div>
</span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-59610301369367659792018-03-16T11:24:00.000-04:002018-03-16T11:24:08.329-04:00Five feet of snow in March!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinXrpM6YnsMB3emjtWV0uJvaHlQLPcB-7dYiLAkdPIp8buM8qMRhtdgz0xchkbT0xA9jxDrTJ_vBtfiYZCuvMxlaJvy0d8ZBWpglOrajTlU3lVJex_0rKV2S9T_9hhc3hXDgTf3ldgXqA/s1600/BruceBlog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinXrpM6YnsMB3emjtWV0uJvaHlQLPcB-7dYiLAkdPIp8buM8qMRhtdgz0xchkbT0xA9jxDrTJ_vBtfiYZCuvMxlaJvy0d8ZBWpglOrajTlU3lVJex_0rKV2S9T_9hhc3hXDgTf3ldgXqA/s400/BruceBlog.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Greetings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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We are at the midway point of the month of March and have
received, on average, around 140” of snow to date and about 60” for the month
of March …<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it doesn’t get any better
than this! After the third nor’easter, some might say “uncle,” but I would say
call your “uncle, and get him up here for some skiing and riding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We anticipate maintaining our full trail count for a while,
looking at the long range weather. The lift count will fluctuate in the 9-12
range midweek, and 20 for the weekends, with potential adjustments being done
later in the month. Snowmaking by machine has ended for the season. The
snowmakers and groomers did a great job getting us up and going and taking care
of the many weather events we have had. Mother Nature took over for March and
they didn’t need to fire up the guns.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As many of you heard, Okemo announced a partnership with
Vail Resorts to begin a long-term alliance beginning next winter, to be part of
the Epic Pass. <span style="color: black;">Pass holders who purchase Epic, Epic
Local and Epic Australia will receive seven days of skiing and snowboarding
with no blackout dates at each of our three resorts: Okemo, Mount Sunapee and
Crested Butte. Epic 7-Day pass holders can use any, or all seven, of their
total days, and Epic 4-Day pass holders can use any, or all four, of their
total days of skiing and snowboarding with no blackout dates at the three
resorts. </span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Guest can </span>then purchase
tickets at a 50% off rate for the duration of the season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Okemo Gold, Ultimate & Classic pass holders
will be able to purchase 50% off single day tickets at the Vail Resort Ski
Areas. We are excited about this alliance and look forward to having Epic Pass
skiers and riders experiencing Okemo.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Okemo is hosting its annual Sugar Daze concert on St
Patrick’s Day this coming Saturday, March 17. The featured band is Blues
Traveler. This event should be fun with nice weather forecasted, although a
coat may be needed. Music begins at 3:30 with Braiden Sunshine & Jake
Kulak; at 5pm Pete Kilpatrick Band; and at 7pm Blues Traveler to finish out the
evening.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Okemo is committed to staying as close to full operations as
we can as we head towards the end of March and Easter weekend. There will, no
doubt, be some adjustments of services, but our goal is to make the least of an
impact to our guests as is possible. There will be operations changes because
of weather and we will do our best to let you know of these before you begin
your ski day. Once Easter rolls around, we will be looking at more significant
adjustments to operations and services – at least midweek. I get asked daily what
our closing day will be, and at this point our plan is to close on Sunday April
15* As always the * (asterisk) means weather-dependent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Bruce Schmidt</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Vice-President &
General Manager</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Okemo Mountain Resort</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-15873489235161208162018-02-16T16:25:00.001-05:002018-02-16T16:33:39.209-05:00Presidents Weekend Update<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxkW2BHaptyaBfCe0Sb5vb-i4485CRh0AjEpFCAMXk0swTlqzR2V6eugjySFPEcbY6767UVN3GJizx_mZTatlpy7GKCUOxHqiMiO9ULPq3mfMzrj1WOKBYVLwhkMAM8XR6Oi0FwfLuCw/s1600/2018-0215-hero-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="325" data-original-width="600" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxkW2BHaptyaBfCe0Sb5vb-i4485CRh0AjEpFCAMXk0swTlqzR2V6eugjySFPEcbY6767UVN3GJizx_mZTatlpy7GKCUOxHqiMiO9ULPq3mfMzrj1WOKBYVLwhkMAM8XR6Oi0FwfLuCw/s320/2018-0215-hero-image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
Greetings,<br />
<br />
The presidential holiday is here and Okemo is ready to work hard to provide the best possible experience we can. This coming weekend's weather is looking good. Friday’s weather has been overcast and cloudy, but we are expecting that Saturday, Sunday & Monday will be sunny with temperatures in the mid-20s on Saturday and mid-30s or higher on Sunday & Monday. <br />
<br />
The temperature will be dropping Friday evening and snowmaking will be starting up and running on as many mainline trails as possible. These will include Upper World Cup, Lower World Cup, Count Down, the Summit Area, Sapphire, Upper Arrow, Lower Arrow and the Base Area. Grooming will be done across the mountain on open terrain. It is expected that many of the gladded trails will end up being closed until the snow softens up.<br />
<br />
Okemo staff will be working hard to provide an enjoyable resort experience. We will be at full operation in all our departments. This includes all our culinary outlets, all lifts & carpets, as well as our Nordic operation, Ice House, Spring House, Snow Tubing & Mountain Coaster. <br />
<br />
There will, no doubt, be some times when there are less than enjoyable lines to access our lifts and other services. Rest assured that our staff will be doing all we can to make those lines move as fast as possible. As we all know, it does take time to get guests checked in, load lifts and answer phone calls. Our staff is committed and will try to do whatever they can to speed up these necessary interactions. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There have been questions about snowmaking through February. Okemo is committed to building base depth, as well as working to provide the best possible skiing and riding through the ski season. We will continue to make snow as needed and when it is possible. We will make “game time” decisions on snowmaking as we head into the end of February and early March. There needs to be a “need” on the trails, a good window of temperatures and a forecast that assures us that the snow will stay around<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"></a>. You can be assured that we are constantly monitoring the conditions and long range forecasts so that we can stay on top of things.<br />
<br />
The Okemo Team is ready and committed to a great week and we are hopeful that you will see the “Okemo Difference” while at the resort.<br />
<br />
If you have questions or comments, feel free to reach out and let us know how we are doing.</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<i>Bruce Schmidt<br />Okemo GM</i><em></em><em><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: normal; margin: 0px;"></span></em><br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-46643829782146017022017-12-29T07:37:00.001-05:002017-12-29T07:39:02.631-05:00Holiday Week Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaZs09ncm7NtuJL2ss1oxl5VN4V040CO6VGFJdKdmMvXLApIBvEqvuq2UYW6VBAzruZJieVF7YPwzRhf9brCRhSnX9Erq9KDjYJWwDIr_Lz_7A7fPrC0dGv58me6fd0jfH446MtADYa0/s1600/snowmaking+at+Okemo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaZs09ncm7NtuJL2ss1oxl5VN4V040CO6VGFJdKdmMvXLApIBvEqvuq2UYW6VBAzruZJieVF7YPwzRhf9brCRhSnX9Erq9KDjYJWwDIr_Lz_7A7fPrC0dGv58me6fd0jfH446MtADYa0/s320/snowmaking+at+Okemo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Greetings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The Christmas week is upon us
with New Years almost here. All of us
here at Okemo want to thank everyone who has been spending time with us
out on the slopes and around the resort.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We are experiencing a real
winter. This is like the ones your grandmother told you about when she had to
walk to the one room school house up hill -- and who ever got there first had to
start the pot-belly stove to warm up the room!
This is great for skiing and riding and if you dress for the conditions
it can be truly enjoyable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It is important to
communicate with our loyal guests and let you all know what we are thinking for
the future here at Okemo as well as why we do some things.</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I’ve had many people ask me
about the weather event we had last week. The weather was a mixture of freezing
rain, snow and then rain in the base.
The Okemo staff worked hard to keep the lifts running but we just
weren’t successful to keep them going all day.
We take the closing of a lift very seriously but safety for our guests
and our staff is our first priority.
When a lift is closed we put the information up on the reader boards at
the lifts and in the lodges, we also have a Mountain Update link on our web
site and we post to our Twitter page. A
lot happens quickly during weather events but we work hard to communicate what
we know. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">There are times when the
Jackson Gore lifts have issues and we have to run shuttle buses from Jackson
Gore. This is never an enjoyable event
for anyone. I can assure you we will be
reviewing our communication. I heard from several guests that they were unaware
that the Quantum Four was not running after they had ridden the Coleman Brook
Express. Not a good situation and one we
can improve on.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Why are we making snow
around the Black Ridge triple and Base Quad A after we have gotten over 2
feet? Okemo will remain aggressive in
our snowmaking. We will continue to make snow when it is cold to keep the water
flowing. Our plan is to make snow tonight
so we need to keep the water flowing and some snowguns running. It is very hard, and at risk of freeze-ups,
when the system is charged in temperatures like this so we continue to make
snow during the day. Making on Black Out
is our objective to help create the terrain park as well as build moguls for competitions
and guest enjoyment. I apologize for
those who were inconvenienced while riding the lifts. The snowmakers work hard
to constantly adjust the snow guns, but
at times we just can’t get it right.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our snowmaking plan is to
make snow in the Superpipe, finish Hot Dog Hill & Black Out and then when
we get out of this polar vortex, head towards the South Face area and make on
Wild Thing, Punch Line & Dreamweaver.
We will also be making on Big Bang & Triple Sec to finish things
up. Some trails will be resurfaced to
keep the snow texture top notch during the next week to 10 days.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The entire Okemo has worked
hard in this cold weather. From Lift
operators, Culinary staff, parking attendants, Mountain operations staff, Hotel
and Resort Services staff. They all have
contributed to make your experience here at Okemo and enjoyable vacation. While we can’t control the weather, we can
control the helpful and friendliness we provide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thank you for your support of
Okemo and on behalf of the entire Okemo team, we want to wish you a very Happy
New Year!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><em>Bruce Schmidt</em></span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Okemo GM</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-48019407118914508082017-12-10T14:27:00.000-05:002017-12-10T14:27:40.371-05:00Heading towards the Holidays at Okemo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagkBcqqRMGL839GnMZ0XD8RxfLltYO7DHEcITXnhw7c3MAF-QqTlme8IFRPMGgj6crDrem-9crmVU0xlbA5BmA9ELnsSsymDQwvabFV1RWE2_zev7EsLf8UbS_LzGghH8uOv9Cw9FTdU/s1600/hphero-img-jg-open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagkBcqqRMGL839GnMZ0XD8RxfLltYO7DHEcITXnhw7c3MAF-QqTlme8IFRPMGgj6crDrem-9crmVU0xlbA5BmA9ELnsSsymDQwvabFV1RWE2_zev7EsLf8UbS_LzGghH8uOv9Cw9FTdU/s640/hphero-img-jg-open.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Greetings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">New snow has covered the
ground and it's looking white around the resort. Winter is here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">As of the weekend of December
9<sup>th</sup> we have 36 trails which is almost 200 acres of skiable terrain.
Even though we have received the first snowfall of the season, snowmaking will continue at every opportunity while we have these colder temperatures. During the past week we added trails in
the Jackson Gore area, some in Solitude -- and most likely will be adding Rimrock
and trails around that area early this week. The plan will be to work on Upper & Lower
Chief, Sidewinder, Quantum Leap & expand teaching terrain in Jackson Gore
as well as beginner terrain in the Clocktower base area. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The other areas we will put
some of our snowmaking capacity on will be Wardance, Sachem, Ledgewood, Kettle
Brook and the Morning Star and Solitude lodging trails. The lodging trails are
important to Okemo and we should be opening some of these with the weather
expected this week. Wardance has been
tougher for us this year as the snowguns we have on the trail are the standard HKD variety and to use these guns the temperature requirement is below 20 degrees. This coming week looks like that will
happen. Without Wardance thus far, we have been holding race training on Sapphire. Okemo also hosted a
VARA slalom race on Nor’easter. We
understand this setup is not ideal and will work hard to get snow on the Wardance race
trail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">During the past week or so there
have been a couple days where the skiing conditions on some of the trails has
not been ideal. In fact it probably wasn’t
good at all! We realize this and are not
proud of the initial opening on some of these trails. We realize that some of the Jackson Gore trails
weren’t ideal when we opened on Friday. In order to help make the skiing and
riding better we are going to let trails “sit” for 24 hours after heavy
snowmaking. We will begin grooming after the 24 hours of “time out”. This allows the snow to settle, some of the
water to leach out and makes for a better surface. Rimrock will be an example of this. We will
finish snowmaking on the trail tonight and then won’t plan to open the trail until
Tuesday. We can’t do this every time,
but will whenever possible. Trails may
not open as quickly but the skiing, when they do open, will be better.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Our RFID ticketing system at
the lifts is working well. We appreciate your patience when it comes to working
through any challenges. Most of these are quickly fixed -- and much of the time
right at the lift with the gate monitors. If you are asked to go down to the
resort services desk that means that the problem is more than what can be done
on the phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Thanks for your support and
as always let us know how we can improve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Bruce Schmidt</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Okemo GM</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-25654944131268895532017-11-26T14:12:00.001-05:002017-11-26T14:15:06.837-05:00Off and Running here at Okemo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uI56rwoKL6pAAQJZJeBWJ219tHfeA2oaDkfPY26rLMMcyfoweD2SGamWlk2TmuWR7YpxPFf7qgefK5wgzyYzHTVYOgRlEsYtO7_H0os8NytB0DiYnEofjQFBpKw2LheJE_-2hfAePbc/s1600/early+season+snowmaking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uI56rwoKL6pAAQJZJeBWJ219tHfeA2oaDkfPY26rLMMcyfoweD2SGamWlk2TmuWR7YpxPFf7qgefK5wgzyYzHTVYOgRlEsYtO7_H0os8NytB0DiYnEofjQFBpKw2LheJE_-2hfAePbc/s320/early+season+snowmaking.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Greetings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The Okemo blog is returning
and will be in the winter mode moving forward with more timely updates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Skiing and riding at Okemo have
been great for the Thanksgiving weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The snowmakers and groomers provided 20 trails and lift operations and lift
maintenance crews had 5 lifts operating. The skiing has been good with very
carveable snow and, even though we have had changing weather conditions, the
snow has remained pretty consistent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
late fall/early winter pattern fluctuates dramatically, but the good news is
that we have not seen a lot of melting of the snow crystals and thus, the
skiing has stayed more consistent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
other good aspect of this time of the year is that even though the sun is out,
the angle of the sun is lower and doesn’t heat things up as much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So there is your weather lesson for the week!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">As the ski season marches on,
Okemo will continue to make snow when we can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Don’t be fooled by looking at your thermometer and saying, “Hey Okemo
must have made snow -- <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it is 30 degrees
this morning”!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we talk about making
snow at every opportunity what we really mean is that there is a window to make
snow, not just that the temperature dropped to the high 20’s late at
night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Always keep in mind the old
saying, “It is always coldest before the dawn”. Okemo snowmaking needs
temperatures below 25 and we need a “temperature window”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2-3 hours is a minimum most of the time, as
it doesn’t even make sense to get the system charged unless we will have some
consistent snowmaking time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It takes
between 90 to 120 minutes to charge both the air and water system to make snow
on the Summit area, Jackson Gore, Solitude or South Face so we want to be sure
we are getting a good window.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">So what is the plan?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Snowmaking this week we will be working on Jolly
Green Giant, Defiance, Coleman Brook & Mountain Road. We also will put some
guns on some of the existing terrain to keep the surface up to snuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our plan is to head towards the Jackson Gore
area by the end of the week if the weather cooperates. We can only begin
snowmaking after December 1<sup>st</sup> in the Jackson Gore area because of
wildlife permit conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking at
the weather it looks up and down this week but there does look to be a pattern
change the first week of December which hopefully be positive for winter
weather returning and staying around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
also have Wardance on the list and will be heading toward some of the lodging
trails like Sachem, Ledgewood & Kettle Brook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No promises can be made but we fully
understand the need to get those open as soon as possible for our loyal guests.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">As for grooming, we have our
groomers hired and most are working now. We have a lot of returning staff which
is great as they know the product that our skiers and riders are looking
for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The groomers are working at night
to get the skiable terrain done and most importantly to set up the snow so it
is ready for the morning. We also have a couple who come in at 5am and take
care of any snowmaking or other small projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Mountain Operations staff are always looking to make the on-mountain
experience even better than the day before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Thanks for your support and
as always let us know how we can improve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<em><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Bruce Schmidt</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<em><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Okemo GM</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-61163461886616768342017-04-09T09:18:00.004-04:002017-04-09T09:21:19.887-04:00The Season End Approaches<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRyud1J5zy4pR9JY0FtDLeML0Dzwq9VkkSnkI40LukIsezzKnx-whGrhV_SgrBWYwO_St7BV8mDPOdZRnUp4GhyMQdoLD0jURDJG-sXX30mY3NFEYhvm2MkzVdlzwnhoBoV6NnaS0pGI/s1600/DSC_0647+%25231_pe+%252316+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRyud1J5zy4pR9JY0FtDLeML0Dzwq9VkkSnkI40LukIsezzKnx-whGrhV_SgrBWYwO_St7BV8mDPOdZRnUp4GhyMQdoLD0jURDJG-sXX30mY3NFEYhvm2MkzVdlzwnhoBoV6NnaS0pGI/s400/DSC_0647+%25231_pe+%252316+%25231.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Greetings,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">April has arrived and the
snow and colder weather stayed with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This spring has been an unsettled one, no doubt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is looking like the warm weather and
bright sun will now be with us for a while and that will make for some
great spring skiing to finish up the season.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">When the season ends on
Easter Sunday, April 16<sup>th</sup> we will have skied and snowboarded 144
consecutive days beginning on November 23.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The weather had its ups and downs but all and all we had some great
snow, wonderful ski & ride conditions and a strong season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is always the question about why end
the season now vs keeping it going as we have open trails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is always a debated question amongst
some of us here at Okemo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end, we
look at the long-range weather, look at the what we feel the conditions will be
and we look at business levels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
week is beginning a warm period that is looking to be extended into next week
and this will no doubt change the look on the mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know we cannot please everyone with the
decisions we make on closing day but it is important to note that there is
plenty of discussion.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">This coming week skiers and
riders will see some changes in operation which will include the closing of the
Jackson Gore area during the week and reopening on Good Friday, April 14<sup>th</sup>
and remaining open through Easter Sunday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a good balance and will allow some consolidation of operations
on the Clocktower side for most of the week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We will be operating Base Quad A & The Sunburst Six beginning on
Monday April 10<sup>th</sup>. There will also be ticket pricing changes when
this begins.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">I want to thank each and
every one of our guests who spent time with us here at Okemo this past
winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We appreciate so much the
confidence you have in committing to ski with us if for a day or the entire
season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understand there is a certain
amount of trust that is needed when you drive to the mountain, walk to the
lodge, get your ski gear on and head out on to the slopes without really
knowing what to expect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully the
entire Okemo team has proven to you that you can trust us and we will continue
to provide the best possible mountain experience each and every time. I also
hope that if we do stumble, that we do what we can to make it right for you and
show you that we want you to return.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Okemo is not just winter and
our summer operation opens soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Okemo Valley Golf Club and Tater Hill Country Clubs will be open the links soon
for all you golfers out there and the Okemo Adventure Zone will be opening on
Memorial Day.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Thank you so much for your
support this season. We know you have choices and really are thankful and
appreciative that you choose Okemo!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<em><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Bruce Schmidt</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Okemo GM</span></em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGNbs3d1rYo7NVv9z0BKulziTe6WSU41HrTNaN3s8-xwKfBGSWGlYaNH3SDQFPEYenEZEndYtUayyS1e8_w2XlfGO0NXnWcx4tfOTw1q50m5rgA1HFx4wLQo4-apju0BudPC-SNGoIAo/s1600/Okemo-Blog-022817-A93A7484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGNbs3d1rYo7NVv9z0BKulziTe6WSU41HrTNaN3s8-xwKfBGSWGlYaNH3SDQFPEYenEZEndYtUayyS1e8_w2XlfGO0NXnWcx4tfOTw1q50m5rgA1HFx4wLQo4-apju0BudPC-SNGoIAo/s640/Okemo-Blog-022817-A93A7484.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-size: small;">Greetings,</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">If you weren’t on the
mountain this past week, you missed some great skiing and riding. Yes, I know you are going to say it was warm,
but that made it even better! The weekend was much better than was forecasted, with no inclement weather until after
the lifts closed on Saturday. Sunday's snow was firm, but the surface was edgeable and guests shared some positive comments on their experience.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">Did
I tell you that we will be making <b><u>SNOW
IN MARCH</u></b>???? Cold weather is arriving ... we are expecting sunny skies and temps in
the teens to low 20’s during the day. In an effort to extend spring skiing, <u><b>SNOWMAKING</b></u> has started again this week. Sunday night our snowmakers were very busy and are
scheduled to come back Thursday afternoon. We plan to focus our snowmaking efforts on
the main line trails and up around the summit area. We are also heading into the Clock Tower base
area to build some depth. <b><u> Snowmaking
in March</u></b> is a serious commitment to a long spring season! </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">The efforts of our Snowmaking Team, along with almost 100 inches of natural snow, has given the distinction of the
most acreage, most miles and most open terrain in Vermont to Okemo! We are skiing and riding on 612 acres and over 40 miles of trails. That, along with snowmaking in
March, means a long season. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">We plan to monitor midweek lift usage as well as our other operations.
We may make some adjustments, but we will keep everyone up to speed through
updates to the Snow Reports page of Okemo.com. My goal is to be up front; everyday I try to make
decisions before the resort opens, in the hopes of making it easier for our guests to make decisions. Without a doubt though, the best laid plans don’t always come together. Sometimes we end up
making adjustments on the fly. We will always let you know through the web site,
Facebook and Twitter.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">March is here, snowmaking is
going to happen as temperatures permit and we have the most snow! It doesn’t get any better than that! Enjoy and thanks for your support this
season.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Bruce Schmidt<br />Okemo GM</i></span></div>
LScotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13687676387648149385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-81159204225301648362017-02-23T10:42:00.001-05:002017-02-23T11:31:01.354-05:00Late February Update<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDuUwDeLHNp69iFwsvm2kBSftraolm68gClgJBDcBoIJSB69DphhWHSMwwuslnXQpiBDAs4UaaZL8diFlg3mQIGrmQc76ZJ0Lq2iz2ek-ZYOff1-3YE_y-H74I-09wnSuPLMPtrdEdRM/s1600/grooming01_2100x1363_300_CMYK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDuUwDeLHNp69iFwsvm2kBSftraolm68gClgJBDcBoIJSB69DphhWHSMwwuslnXQpiBDAs4UaaZL8diFlg3mQIGrmQc76ZJ0Lq2iz2ek-ZYOff1-3YE_y-H74I-09wnSuPLMPtrdEdRM/s640/grooming01_2100x1363_300_CMYK.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">
<br />
Greetings,<br />
<br />
The month of February has brought plenty of snow, sunshine and warm weather. Okemo
guests have been treated to great ski & ride conditions and we expect
it to continue into March. <br />
<br />
This past holiday weekend was a good one at Okemo. While there were no records
set, skier visits were very strong and I can’t thank all of our loyal
skiers and riders enough. There were some operational challenges, including
longer lift lines, slower than normal food service, and some muddy parking
lots, but Okemo continues to work on all aspects of our operation and we
strive to provide the best experience possible for our guests.<br />
<br />
I have been asked about how this past week's weather pattern has
affected the skiing conditions and snow. There's no doubt that the
snow has been more edgeable and carveable. Grooming has been happening
every night and the groomers have been changing their patterns to mix things
up. The grooming begins in Solitude each night, since it is closest to the
Maintenance Shop. As soon as ski patrol finishes their nightly sweep, the
groomers head to either Jackson Gore or the South Face area. Switching things
up allows for each area to set up differently. The area which
is groomed first is always firmer and on sunny days, can be the best place
to start your day of skiing or riding. <br />
<br />
Snowmaking will continue, even as spring approaches, whenever temperatures permit and we will remain
aggressive in keeping our trails open and lifts operating. The snowmakers
have been cleaning up some of their hoses and guns, but are poised and ready to
go as needed. We are increasing snow depth for high traffic areas and
working on some of our main line trails. Heading into March, we are expecting
some great spring skiing and riding!<br />
<br />
Okemo is stoked to host the Volvo Sponsored <a href="https://www.okemo.com/activities/calendar/sugar-daze/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sugar Daze</span></a> concert in the Jackson
Gore Courtyard. This free concert is scheduled for Saturday March 11<sup>th</sup>
and goes from 3:30 – 8:30pm. A local warm-up act will take the stage at
3:30. MAGIC! will dazzle the crowd with their catchy fusion of reggae, pop
and R&B, starting at 5:45. Then at 7:15, two-time Grammy and World
Music Award nominee Paul Oakenfold will perform. Sugar Daze is always a great
time for everyone!<br />
<br />
This week, Vail Resorts purchased Stowe Mountain. Okemo has congratulated
Vail on their purchase and we welcome them to Vermont. Stowe is a great resort
and we are sure that Vail will continue the great skiing and riding experience
that Stowe is known for. Having Vail in Vermont may result in Okemo
adjusting some of the ski experience offerings available, but that will come
with time. Presently, we are in wait-and-see mode and
we'll continue to concentrate on the positive energy Okemo has going, as
well as focus on what we can offer for our guests.<br />
<br />
Here is to a long winter and a great spring skiing experience. Thank you for
your continued support and for a great February vacation week!<br />
<br />
<em>Bruce Schmidt</em><br />
<em>Okemo GM</em><br />
<br />
</span><br />
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>LScotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13687676387648149385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-42870682362192422562017-01-13T16:31:00.001-05:002017-01-13T16:31:36.036-05:00MLK Weekend Update<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8L_ylN1nKtl6Vzl_74E_AgSQCVK_n-BkgG27DvDBFpzgS-y-h31QvV1zUejPNYxsLC-YEI7AELPZkm60kktD528yba8cNgQ4qqBjwMGv128t3GaidstB4sbtpPpn93rBv4NHrwXUAg8k/s1600/okemoblog_011317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8L_ylN1nKtl6Vzl_74E_AgSQCVK_n-BkgG27DvDBFpzgS-y-h31QvV1zUejPNYxsLC-YEI7AELPZkm60kktD528yba8cNgQ4qqBjwMGv128t3GaidstB4sbtpPpn93rBv4NHrwXUAg8k/s640/okemoblog_011317.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Greetings,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Okemo has just surpassed Day #50 for the ski season and we
are in full mid-winter mode. The ski
season has been going along well and we are looking forward to a strong Martin
Luther King 3-day weekend.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The weather has been challenging off and on this winter and
that is true this week. There has been
some wet weather, some sunny weather and some cold weather. The great news is
that this weekend we are looking at the sunny and cold. The January temperatures are welcome and will
make for a great ski weekend. There is
no doubt that the skiing surface will be variable…we can’t prevent that. But I
can tell you that Okemo groomers will be diligently working the snow with
mountain tilling, blading and power tilling the best we can. We will also have the winch cat out on the
steeper terrain each night pulling snow up from the bottom and moving things
around. Also helping out will be the
snowmaking team. Snowmakers will be
doing their part with an aggressive push on existing terrain. This will mostly focus on the main line
trails in the center of the mountain and head out towards Jackson Gore and
Glades peak into South Face. While we
won’t be able to tackle every trail, the plan will be to run and gun, lay out
some manmade snow and then move. We are hoping to cover a large percentage of
the trails over the weekend both during the day and night.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Work on the Amp Energy Superpipe has begun and between the
snowmaking and grooming we are coming along well. If you haven’t seen the photos, check out the picture above or on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/okemomountain" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>. Lots of snow has been
made and now we will push the snow down the superpipe and onto the walls. After
that comes more snowmaking and then more shaping. It is a long process but
worth it in the end. I can assure you
that the work on the Amp Energy Superpipe is not impacting the snowmaking
effort and grooming we are doing on the mountain at all. We always work on the ski terrain and then go
to the Superpipe.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are times when our business levels are strong on the
slopes and around the resorts and I know that there is no doubt some
frustration with lines, crowded buildings, full parking lots and lots of skiers
and riders. I want to assure you that all of us here at Okemo are committed
each day to do our best to keep lines moving, lodges cleaned up, cars moving
and doing what is possible to have a great day on the slopes. I know that we won’t always reach the mark,
but the Okemo Team will try and provide the Okemo Difference every day. Thanks in advance for your support and
patience.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<em>Bruce Schmidt</em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<em>Okemo GM</em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-86189447366832660622016-12-15T12:55:00.001-05:002016-12-15T12:55:42.371-05:00A White Christmas at Okemo!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7C9IuXwMVkFQBKa-zD4yD0IAnsmv2beBD3Onfcy-8IGq5zUnvK_MxG6mZ9TN-Ia5VmMclAxl6lMneEjd0uFuDz46WnNZ4_tgQVbrvjbLQ_tshR20lxIu9gsShyphenhyphen13C25m4C9KcEwhkNwo/s1600/okemoblog_121516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7C9IuXwMVkFQBKa-zD4yD0IAnsmv2beBD3Onfcy-8IGq5zUnvK_MxG6mZ9TN-Ia5VmMclAxl6lMneEjd0uFuDz46WnNZ4_tgQVbrvjbLQ_tshR20lxIu9gsShyphenhyphen13C25m4C9KcEwhkNwo/s640/okemoblog_121516.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Okemo skier and riders,<br />
<br />
It is a great winter morning here at Okemo and we are making snow hard and fast. Wednesday night we ran around 150 guns and were maximizing our use of water. Most of those guns are HKD guns so when it gets colder they can use more water and make more snow. This past week added some natural trails along with adding Defiance and Sel’s Choice.<br />
<br />
As we head into the weekend, we will be looking to add the South Face area, with Stump Jumper and Blind Faith most likely being open for skiing and riding as well as Rimrock, Moon Dog, Sun Dog, Moment’s Rest and Sprint. The snow report mentioned making snow on Dream Weaver, but I want to clarify that that is only the bottom section from Stump Jumper down. We haven’t made snow on the upper section and most likely won’t for the time being. Also on the list for this weekend is adding Sachem, Wardance, Bull Run, Liftline and the Galaxy Bowl. <br />
<br />
During this cold snap, we will be looking to make snow on Upper and Lower Chief as well as Coleman Brook and Sidewinder. The plan is to work our way towards Moonshadow and Morningstar with the hope of having them open by Christmas. We will also be working towards Tuckered Out in the Jackson Gore area.<br />
<br />
Some of our lower mountain objectives will be expanding terrain in the base area to include Robbins’ Nest, Ledgewood and Kettlebrook. The natural snow we have received will help the trails in the long run, and we have been rolling the trails with a roller and snow cat to pack down the snow. Looking further out, I anticipate the snowmaking operations to head back towards the South Face area and the SouthFace Village trail as well as working on some of the lift line trails we haven’t gotten to yet.<br />
<br />
This weekend Snow Park Technologies (SPT) will be on-site building the Crazy Train Terrain Park as well as some features in “The Zone” area. The groomers have also added moguls to the Plunge. We will have that closed on Saturday for a “B” mogul meet. It is always great to showcase the excellent talent of the Okemo Freestyle competitors. I will be honest and say that I don’t anticipate any work being done on the Superpipe until early 2017.<br />
<br />
With this new terrain added we are also expanding other operations including the opening of Epic Restaurant at the base of Solitude on Saturday, December 17th, Coleman Brook Tavern opening for lunch and dinner 7 days a week and Siena opening for dinner on Friday, December 16th. Also, opening will be the Sugar House cafeteria. An exciting time here at Okemo as we add more for our guests to enjoy, on and off the hill.<br />
<br />
This week, we have been diligently making ice at the Ice House with our new refrigeration system, and we will be skating this weekend! Be sure to check it out and watch our new Zamboni work on the surface. It is just like the TD Garden!<br />
<br />
Many thanks to you for your support of Okemo and I want to wish you Happy Holidays. As always, if you have a question, please send it along. The entire Okemo team will do our best to give you the best skiing and riding possible!<br />
<br />
Enjoy it out there on the hill!<br />
<br />
Bruce Schmidt<br />
Okemo GM<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-66694157651283557742016-12-03T15:30:00.000-05:002016-12-03T15:32:06.301-05:00<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">
December Outlook</span></h2>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQe6HPqGXh-cW8AQrbDMFFvetgzE4_lixKHbn3oyD0_IWgQq17QG2DxL48ZWME4rKCDY8gqajEWRjjn70NnJmRxTMPSd-ry1agnDfuZscfPxsuET7f5f81vzMLLD8xNE6YJe-rElIJ0s/s1600/snowcat2_1_640x427_72_RGB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQe6HPqGXh-cW8AQrbDMFFvetgzE4_lixKHbn3oyD0_IWgQq17QG2DxL48ZWME4rKCDY8gqajEWRjjn70NnJmRxTMPSd-ry1agnDfuZscfPxsuET7f5f81vzMLLD8xNE6YJe-rElIJ0s/s640/snowcat2_1_640x427_72_RGB.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<em>Okemo Friends,</em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
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December has arrived at Okemo and with that some great early
season skiing and riding as well as a strong snowmaking push. While the weather
has been up and down, the Okemo Mountain Operations staff has been able to open
up almost 80 acres of terrain.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We have had 18 days of making snow since early November and
we have made snow on more than 20 trails – with 11 currently open for skiing
and riding. While the crew worked hard to get top-to-bottom trails, they also
have been working to head into the Solitude area, and now Jackson Gore. The
snowmaking game plan is broken down into the Upper Mountain, Mid Mountain and
Base area. Imagine the mountain being broken into two sections: trails above
the Black Ridge, Solitude and Jackson Gore all being upper Mountain, and trails
below the top of the Black Ridge the lower Mountain. As you can imagine, I get
lots of questions on what is happening as we head into the holidays. Here are
some answers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What is the
snowmaking Plan?</b> That is a pretty broad
question, but I can tell you that we balance the best possible skiing and
riding with the addition of new terrain as quickly as possible. Presently, we
are working with our patrollers and other departments who are on the slopes to
decide if we need to make snow on existing terrain. Some of our capacity is
committed to that while the rest is committed to adding terrain. We are headed toward
Solitude with snow being made on The Plunge, Heaven’s Gate, Screamin’ Demon,
Mountain Road, Sweet Solitude and Roundhouse Run. This will get us into
Solitude as well as toward Jackson Gore.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Why make snow on The
Plunge?</b> The Plunge is an easy continuation
down from Sapphire. We use the Plunge for both a way into Solitude, and as
access to our Maintenance shop. We need a trail near the Maintenance shop to
get the snow cats out on the slopes as well as move food trailers to the Summit
Lodge. While we could make on Village Run, the Plunge is a better skiing trail
than Village Run is, so it makes sense to head there. It also allows us to make
Moguls if we wanted to earlier in the season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>When will Jackson Gore
be open?</b> Snowmaking guns are set up
on some of the Jackson Gore trails and we will be making snow there most likely
Saturday night. Snow will be made first on Blue Moon, Sunset Strip, Lower
Limelight and, if possible with HKD temperatures, Vortex and Quantum Leap. If
the temperatures come in like we expect, we will also make snow on Inn Bound,
Fast Track and Expresso. The plan is to have the Jackson Gore base area open by
Saturday December 12. We will have a better feel by early next week. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>How much longer do we
have to ride the Sachem Quad?</b> I know
the ride on the Sachem is not the best, but as I always say, it is better than
riding the shuttle bus! I am hopeful that we will be riding the Base Quad and
skiing down Lower Arrow within the next couple days. The mountain skis better
when the quads are operating, so we want to get there as soon as we can.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What about snowmaking
on the slopeside lodging trails?</b>
Believe me, I understand the importance of this. The plan will be to get to those trails before
Christmas or soon after. We want to get more terrain open to give more skiing
and riding options, and we will pick off some of those lodging trails when we have
some capacity. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What about Wardance?</b> Once we have Lower Arrow open we will begin
to work on some other mid-mountain trails. This most likely will include Lower
Chief, Wardance, Black Out and Village Run. I want to have the racers in their
own area so training can begin and Okemo can begin to hold competition events.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What about Terrain
parks?</b> We have discussed where our
first terrain parks will be worked on and most likely that will be either the
Crazy Train Terrain Park or the Lower Tomahawk Terrain park. Both require lots
of snow, so we would be doing this only if, and when, we have colder temperatures.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>How long will the
features stay on Nor’easter?</b> Okemo
is working hard to create some terrain features and rails to balance out the
skiing and riding, and have options for everyone. We plan to have terrain park
features on skiable terrain until we have a terrain park built and open.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>When will there be
beginner terrain?</b> As there are snowmaking temperatures in the base area,
more of the base area, mountain road and open slope will be widened. We will
focus on the F-10 learning area first and then the Mountain Road from the top
of the Base quads.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Is Okemo grooming
every night during the warmer weather?</b> Yes, Okemo is grooming slopes and
trails every night. There may be some areas with less snow that we are working
around, but the majority of every trail is being groomed. When it was colder,
Okemo ran some mountain tillers to help the surface. We will do this again as
the temperature drops to keep the surface softer. Okemo grooming and snowmaking
are making for a great skiing experience.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What is Christmas
holiday period looking like for slopes and trails?</b> Whenever I am asked this question I am quick
to let everyone know that, contrary to popular belief, Okemo does not have a
crystal ball. I will say that Okemo will work hard to get as much terrain open
as possible. We will work hard to have a great skiing product on our existing
terrain. Our goal would be to have some terrain open in all the different
mountain pods. You can be assured that
Okemo snowmakers will be making as much snow as possible whenever
possible! There is no issue with water
supply, we have our generators in place, and there is a great snowmaking team that
is supported by a strong Mountain Operations team to give all they have every
day. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a sample of the questions I hear and am asked. I am
hopeful that I have answered some of your questions. As always, if you have a question send it
along. The entire Okemo team will do our best to give you the best skiing and riding
possible!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Enjoy
your days on the slopes,<o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
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<em>Bruce Schmidt</em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<br />
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<em>Okemo GM</em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09714832989727400191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-8925633321622074232016-10-28T12:17:00.002-04:002016-10-28T12:17:19.974-04:00Halloween Weekend Update<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fzlm7SQg-oBxLXk94AoWVGvJifom9VirEkbFr9e1wWi4W66R9Qm1T4S-T2zclJiJw3VRfrL5iO7VT6N0NMzQlETGN4lMbH5jy1FYPhAj7VOY8RuQj7WynW8h1Axxbdob8YvW-O0mG2c/s1600/okemoblog_102816.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fzlm7SQg-oBxLXk94AoWVGvJifom9VirEkbFr9e1wWi4W66R9Qm1T4S-T2zclJiJw3VRfrL5iO7VT6N0NMzQlETGN4lMbH5jy1FYPhAj7VOY8RuQj7WynW8h1Axxbdob8YvW-O0mG2c/s640/okemoblog_102816.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Greetings,</div>
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It is Friday October 28<sup>th</sup> and Okemo woke up to around 9 inches of new snow on the summit, about 6” at mid-mountain and 2-3” in the base area. The ground is white and looking like winter! This will bode well as we look to begin snowmaking early next week. While the weather is looking a little mild, we are hoping for some colder nights which might allow us to at least test the system.</div>
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There have been some questions as to why we did not make snow last week when it was colder. Killington has been aggressive in their snowmaking and opened for skiing this week. While we applaud and congratulate Killington, we have to keep in mind that Okemo has unique weather challenges, especially in the fall. Killington has a higher elevation than Okemo and it does get colder earlier. When making a decision to “push the button”, I look at a lot of factors and discuss things with our team. We want to be smart and aggressive. Early season if there is no long-term cold in place (temperatures in the 20s at night and maybe 30 - 40 during the day) the snow does not set and thus there is more loss. The best way to make the decision is to look at different weather models and rely on experience. Okemo is shooting for early November; even if we had made snow last week and received this snow, we would not have been able to get open for skiing and riding next week. Again, smartly aggressive!</div>
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To keep you up to speed on some of the things we do around the resort, I want to talk about grooming. Okemo purchased a 2016 Prinoth Bison X Terrain Park Groomer. It will be great to have this versatile machine in our fleet for both grooming on mountain and in the terrain parks. This new machine is our first of many machines that will be the new “energy-efficient” model. The NEW BISON boasts a 406 HP motor, yet also offers low fuel consumption and a 90% reduction in nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions in-line with the “Stage IV/Tier 4 final” exhaust emission standard set by the federal government. Okemo is excited to be able to have this new machine and be helping the environment also.</div>
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All in all, things are coming together for the winter. Paper products, propane and other storable items have been delivered to the Summit and Sugar House. It is always good to get those items in around the last couple weeks of October. Then there are no issues when snow is made on Buckhorn and the road is closed. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>Oh, and by the way, the Mountain Road is closed for the winter. Sorry, but we aren’t going to be plowing the road until Spring!!</div>
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Get ready for skiing and riding, the time is near!!<span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<em>Bruce Schmidt</em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<em>Okemo GM</em>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-77417670014018520572016-10-11T09:07:00.003-04:002016-10-11T09:10:24.807-04:00An Okemo Winter Preview!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8U6WWF1fU463ZJ9w85bv_sRs9HXN3qQKKdOe5sLdSAExnZrK3xJ_HqFLAExmub5_1Oj2kUoirso5hLow7fM5BZ0mKVmF8C1rqcXJ0HH0PGRRdEcGaknk7U1M5IZDJL7Zqvow51gWPRys/s1600/okemoblog_101116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8U6WWF1fU463ZJ9w85bv_sRs9HXN3qQKKdOe5sLdSAExnZrK3xJ_HqFLAExmub5_1Oj2kUoirso5hLow7fM5BZ0mKVmF8C1rqcXJ0HH0PGRRdEcGaknk7U1M5IZDJL7Zqvow51gWPRys/s640/okemoblog_101116.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Installing snowmaking pipes at SouthFace Village.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Greetings,<br />
<br />
Fall is in full swing here at Okemo and we are enjoying the colors, but at the same time preparing for the winter and getting the resort ready for everyone to do some skiing and riding.<br />
<br />
There have been some questions concerning how the lack of rain will affect snowmaking this coming winter. I want to put everyone at ease that the Okemo snowmaking ponds are full! While it has been dryer than normal this summer, there was pumping that was done into our storage ponds during the earlier part of the summer and we feel comfortable with what we have and are ready to go. The weather patterns always balance out and it is likely that we will see some wet weather this fall which should raise the river level before snowmaking begins. <br />
<br />
Snowmaking is on track and set to begin around November 1st. This date is fluid and if we were to go earlier we would need to see some long term cold weather, but it is safe to say we will be ready to light up the guns right after Halloween. Our plan would be to try to get open as soon as possible with our anticipated opening hopefully in early November. <br />
<br />
I am sure there are some questions on the RFID ticketing system and the Real.Easy card and how that will be working this winter. We understand and realize that there were some challenges this past season. And while some of these can be attributed to a new program, we also realize there were some software challenges, and we have worked hard this summer to hopefully fix these issues. The way we will distribute the 3&Easy cards will be different and the web pages for registering Real.Easy cards as well as loading tickets have been upgraded and are more user-friendly. There has been a lot of effort this summer to make the RFID system work better and we are hopeful that you will see a difference.<br />
<br />
This summer has been a busy one with many projects visible and some not so visible. Here are a few we worked on:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Snowmaking pipe was installed on Cat Nap & the Suncatcher Trail over in the South Face Village area. Guns were installed on Suncatcher and when we are ready to make snow on Cat Nap there will be guns brought in. With snowmaking on Cat Nap we hope to have the trail open even more.</li>
<li>Snowmaking pipe upgrades on Lower Arrow, Open Slope as well as up to the Mid Mountain pump station. While this work is not very visible, it is very important.</li>
<li>A large scale purchase of rental equipment was completed this summer. Okemo will have all ski and snowboard rental equipment that is less than 2 years old for use by our guests. Gone are the days of the old rental equipment. This year we are upgrading our rental fleet with the purchase of 515 new Volkl skis, 869 pairs of Dalbello ski boots, 153 Burton snowboards and 272 pairs of Burton snowboard boots.</li>
<li>Okemo is always looking to have activities for our guests to do when they are not skiing and with that we have purchased an ice mat to be used to make ice in the Jackson Gore Ice house. This glycol infused system has a compressor and chiller to make the ice and with delivery expected by early November we are hopeful for ice around Thanksgiving weekend.</li>
<li>As an added feature to our guests we have joined the M.A.X. Pass family. The “Multi-Alpine Experience” pass offers skiers and snowboarders five days at each of the 32 participating resorts with a total of 160 days on the slopes and no blackout dates. From day trips and ski weekends close to home to ski vacations at destination resorts out West, the M.A.X. Pass gives winter sports enthusiasts the ability to dream and travel to mountains they’ve never gone before.</li>
<li>We have added a new Prinoth Bison X park cat to our fleet of snow groomers this winter. This snow cat is equipped with a Caterpillar 400hp tier 4 engine. This Caterpillar diesel engine meets all the new federal emission standards with more fuel efficiency and a 40hp increase compared to the previous model.</li>
<li>We also have been painting lifts, replacing carpet and sprucing things up to great this coming beast of a winter. We are getting more snow shovels for this winter.</li>
</ul>
<br />
I hope you are making plans, we are amped up, chomping at the bit and going to make it happen this winter so make sure you are doing the same.<br />
<br />
I will be sure to keep you aware of what our plans are and what we are doing. Thanks for choosing to ski and ride with us here at Okemo.<br />
<br />
Bruce Schmidt<br />
Okemo GM<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-82677117574585779212016-08-18T15:21:00.000-04:002016-08-18T16:02:51.762-04:00<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U7K63JWlWLE" width="640"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif";">General Manager Bruce
Schmidt with an update on what Okemo has been up to this summer.</span> <o:p></o:p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-31364112686621153492016-03-26T12:55:00.002-04:002016-04-07T06:06:33.168-04:00Easter Weekend Update & Looking Ahead<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Greetings,</span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3sJ2Jl5QWohyzWmSzdQuWNpGWdzCvX0EQpg82UbOACLvdOZUOuvWMoIrEDEGUUi7kBAyFz8n75Cli7TmcbPKfCLIDeJ__5Uu7I-sNi0ipRFIGtlpke2tF3y_Lg9o5xdiZlkuytpd_2FA/s1600/okemoblog_032616_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Spring skiing" border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3sJ2Jl5QWohyzWmSzdQuWNpGWdzCvX0EQpg82UbOACLvdOZUOuvWMoIrEDEGUUi7kBAyFz8n75Cli7TmcbPKfCLIDeJ__5Uu7I-sNi0ipRFIGtlpke2tF3y_Lg9o5xdiZlkuytpd_2FA/s400/okemoblog_032616_b.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Easter weekend is upon us which means we are heading into the final week of skiing and riding for the 2015-16 ski season. There have been many different words to describe this past ski season but I remind everyone that it is a marathon not a sprint and we all have short memories. So while many will tell their grandchildren, “I was there during the ‘El Nino year’ at Okemo,” I am also confident that the reputation of the resort as well as everyone’s support will make next ski season even better.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are going to be making some changes to our operations here at Okemo beginning on Monday March 28th through our closing day of Sunday April 3rd. All skiing and riding operations will be out of the Jackson Gore Base area. The Clock Tower base area lifts and operations will not be open for the remainder of the season beginning on Monday March 28th.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The operations open in Jackson Gore will be Culinary, Rentals, First Aid, Retail and Resort Services, as well as normal hotel operations. The Ski + Ride department will be offering private lessons only.Lifts operating will be Coleman Brook Quad, Quantum Four and Sunburst Six. Depending on the trail count and access into Jackson Gore, we may operate Solitude.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Guests will be able to ski down to the Sunburst Six. They will not be able to ski down past the Sunburst Six into the Clock Tower Base area as there will be no lift access out of that base.It is looking like we will have around 40 trails beginning next week. Signage and staff will be out in the morning to let guests know of the change. We will also post on the website, social media, etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our lift ticket pricing will be adjusted again beginning on Monday March 28th as we make these changes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I understand that this will be a change to how we have operated in the past, but it is our feeling that we can provide a skiing and riding experience using the Jackson Gore Base Area that is equal to what we have offered at the Clock Tower base area in the past. Our services are similar and many of our guests will be staying at the Jackson Gore Inn.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While we are ending winter, summer isn’t far behind! Okemo Valley Golf Course will be opening in early April and Okemo’s Adventure Zone is scheduled to open on Memorial Day weekend. Our plan is to bring back all the same attractions as well as some great special events including the weekly Friday night concert series, July 4th activities and Hops in the Hills Beer and Wine Festival in August. Be sure to join us some time during your summer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks again for your support and loyalty this past winter season.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bruce Schmidt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Okemo GM</span><br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-79964943453815239022016-03-17T12:35:00.002-04:002016-03-26T12:43:03.821-04:00Spring Operations UpdateGreetings,<br />
<br />
I’m sure many of you are enjoying this weather. It is spring weather, but isn’t a lot different from the entire winter we have had! I wanted to thank you for the many comments I get from guests who read my blog. I don’t receive many written comments so it is good to hear personally from guests.<br />
<br />
I get asked several times a day about our closing date. Okemo will look to close on Sunday April 3rd for the 2015-16 ski seasons. The asterisk is always the weather. Right now we are working on keeping the Glades Peak and South Face areas open. We are leery about moving snow too much when the weather is such as it is. Moving the snow adds air to it and then it can melt even quicker.<br />
<br />
Our job is to constantly look at our operations and evaluate which ones are the best to keep operating or operate on a limited schedule. We fully realize the need to have some culinary services open -- the question is always how many? We also are aware of the need for restrooms around the mountain, and so do our best to keep that in mind. Operating of lifts is another area where we spend time debating the merits of each of them. Sometimes the decision is made for us by Mother Nature, but other times we have to really contemplate our choices. In the end we work to do our best to please as many guests as possible and as always communicate. While we may make some decisions on the fly, we do work to let you all know. Okemo.com is the best place to find out the most up to date info.<br />
<br />
You may wonder how a decision is made on when a trail is on hold vs closed? While there is not a science or any “ski resort rules”, I will tell you my philosophy. If I believe that a trail will be closed for just the day or possibly a couple days, then I will put it on hold. Because some of our trails are used for different events etc. there is a need to have them used for the event and we can’t have skiing guests mixed with the event. It is important that we have an accurate trail report and it is also important that the trail count not fluctuate up and down with trails opening and closing. While I understand there may be some frustration with why and when a trail is on hold, we do work hard to communicate our changes.<br />
<br />
Guests ask about ticket pricing and when a decision is made to adjust the day ticket price? Again there is no science. During the shoulders of early and late season most likely the ticket price is adjusted at some point. What we look for here at Okemo is what the product we are offering on the mountain is like? How is the market reacting and what will a price adjustment do to other packages we might have available? We also watch what other resorts are doing. Very seldom during the early and late season will price make a decision as to whether a guest is going to come to the resort to ski and ride. Many guests have coupons so they won’t be paying full price anyway and others are coming on days when we have certain promotions going on. As this season comes to a close we will be looking at adjusting our pricing as we head towards Easter weekend.<br />
<br />
While we are ending winter, summer isn’t far behind! The Okemo Adventure Zone is looking to open on Memorial Day weekend and will bring back our complete menu of attractions as well as some great special events including the weekly Friday night concert series, July 4th activities & the Hops in the Hills Beer & Wine Festival in August. Be sure to join us some time during your summer.<br />
<br />
I want to thank you for your support, positive comments and suggestions on improvements this season. The guest support that Okemo receives is second to none in the ski resort business and I can’t thank you enough for making Okemo your mountain and for spending your winter days with us.<br />
<br />
Bruce Schmidt<br />
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Okemo GMAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-55125108805045851622016-02-17T10:07:00.004-05:002016-02-17T10:21:27.179-05:00Bouncing Back!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While we did get some wet weather on Tuesday, it is looking like we will be bouncing back pretty well on Wednesday. Today we and riding on 87 trails and 18 lifts. Some trails opened late as grooming continued this morning. Grooming began around 6pm last night and we had all the machines we own out grooming. Work is continuing in the terrain parks and most opened on time with the exception of Crazy Train Terrain park which we knew would open late. The temperature gradually fell during the night which is positive so there wasn't a quick temperature drop to really tighten things up. There is no doubt that there will be some trails where the surface will be chunky, but that should ski out during the day. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tuesday is gone and we are on to the rest of this week. The weather sure didn’t help things, but there are some things you can’t control in the ski business. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Snowmaking will be happening by the early afternoon and our plan is to resurface across the main mountain. This should include Upper and Lower World Cup, Sapphire, Upper and Lower Arrow, Base area, Upper and Lower Chief and maybe some other areas. We also will be doing heavy grooming with mountain tilling and power tilling happening. I am hopeful that the surface will soften up somewhat during the day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Okemo remains committed to working hard to provide the best possible skiing and riding experience. While there are weather challenges, no doubt, we don’t let that be an excuse for at least trying and working our hardest. Thanks for your support.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bruce Schmidt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Okemo GM</span></div>
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Bonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09714832989727400191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-59534488118764518652016-02-01T19:48:00.000-05:002016-02-01T19:48:27.489-05:00Early February Update<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Greetings,</span></div>
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<span class="s1">February is upon us here at Okemo and this milestone usually marks the halfway point of the winter season. We are around day 70 for skiing and riding here at Okemo. I can’t thank the entire staff enough for all they have done to make Okemo the leader of terrain in Vermont and New England with 520 acres. We are pushing hard to maintain the terrain and keep our grooming top notch. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">I wanted to mention a few things to keep the lines of communication open.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Snowmaking will continue through February. Our plan is to make snow when possible the entire month. It most likely won’t be 7 days a week and maybe not around the clock, but we are going to be aggressive. If there are some good temperatures we will be going for it. Surface conditions are very important and this will be a priority. We also have some other trails to make snow on and those include Dream Weaver, Triple Sec, Lower Fall Line, Eclipse and possibly Ledges. I know that everyone has their favorites, but most likely we won’t get to all the snowmaking trails we have.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Guests have asked about the construction of the Amp Energy Superpipe. I can assure you we had some discussions about this and in the end it was decided that we wanted to provide different experiences for our guests. Making snow in the Superpipe is actually pretty easy because of the snowmaking pipe arrangement and there is always water going up the Superpipe and Sel’s Choice trail. This allows the guns to be turned on when it is cold. The snow we made there was made when it was very cold. The building process does require snowcat time, but we do have our longest-employed operator Bill, who works the day shift for us, available to do most of the work. So we aren’t taking an employee off of a night grooming shift. There is some expense to making the Superpipe and our Terrain Parks, but we do feel that having the only Superpipe in New England and the best Terrain Parks around are worth the grooming and snowmaking time. We hope you will agree, too.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">No doubt you will see some operational changes which we will be making around the resort. These changes have been thought through and discussed due to skier and rider levels as well as midweek vs weekend volume. With these changes we have taken into account options -- we work hard at providing options for our guests. If there is a change we try to provide something similar or another option for our guests. When it comes to the operations of lifts we do try to provide a way to get to all the trails. I realize that it may not always be the most convenient and may take a little more time, but the options have been reviewed, and between me and our mountain manager, we have tried to find a balance. We will be communicating any changes as timely as possible.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Our RFID ticketing system is improving, but not perfect. I’m sure there are some stories about reload issues or 3&Easy challenges, but rest assured we are working on making the process better and easier. Some of these fixes will be longer term in that we need to work on them in the off season and some are being done immediately. I do realize there have been some longer lines than I would like to see as well as our guests. This is being discussed at the highest levels of Okemo and we are trying new solutions and working on problems. There is some frustration all around, but I feel things are getting better. We have in the 10’s of thousands cards registered and more every day. Reloads are happening 24 hours a day and this in turn is allowing skiers and riders to bypass the ticket windows. It will get better -- I promise.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Snow grooming is happening every night. We are mountain tilling almost all our trails every night as well as power tilling them. There are normally 5 or more Snowcats out on the mountain and we run two shifts, 3pm – 12am & 12am – 9am. Each night a decision is made on where grooming will begin as we switch from starting in Solitude/Jackson Gore Area, to starting in the South Face area. We switch start locations so that different areas can set up more. The quality of skiing morning can be impacted with the set up time during the night.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Your support of Okemo is appreciated. No doubt what we provide to our guests can always improve. We strive to have the best possible skiing and riding experience and that experience is encompassed by the grooming, the ticketing, the lifts you ride, where you eat and where you sleep. Thanks for supporting us through this season.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Bruce Schmidt</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Okemo GM</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-70501083508494118442016-01-07T09:02:00.002-05:002016-04-06T15:08:46.225-04:00Snowmaking Update<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BLj6VqjZegc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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Bruce Schmidt VP/GM gives us an update on the snowmaking that's been going on all over the mountain for the past ten days.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-76982019788348584012016-01-02T07:25:00.000-05:002016-03-26T11:35:12.105-04:00Happy New Year!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Greetings, <br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy New Year everyone! The ground is now white, more trails and lifts are open and the forecast is looking like snowmaking will be in full force for a while. Great news as we head into 2016. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Speaking of snowmaking temperatures, the long range is looking pretty good heading into this coming week -- cold nights and daytime temperatures in the teens and 20's, increasing to the 30's towards the end of the week. This will give Okemo snowmakers some great temps to lay down the snow. We are working in several directions now with guns running on Count Down/Sprint/Moment's Rest as well as Rimrock, Defiance and also over on the lower half of Sapphire. Also on the snowmaking map are Sachem, Quantum Leap, Coleman Brook, Sidewinder and then we'll probably look towards Moonshadow. We are still looking to open additional trails in different lift pods with the slope side housing trails also an important part of our plan. We also hope to have the beginner teaching carpets ready to go by next weekend. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Terrain parks are on our mind. While no firm commitment has been made, we are looking at beginning with Black Out and the zone area and moving on from there. We do realize there are no mogul trails yet and will do our best to find a place to make some soon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Okemo remains committed to our race and competition program and we are going to make snow on Wardance which will allow us to begin holding race training and race events. We do need to make enough snow to allow for fence installation so it does take a little bit more snow. We also understand that we need mogul trails and some terrain hits for snowboarding training. It is never easy to get all the different priorities, but we will continue to try. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Okemo ski patrol and safety patrol have been out on the slopes with a presence to both help guests and enforce safe and in-control skiing and riding. We all understand that there is limited terrain and at times it can be crowded. Education is key and will be our first goal, but Okemo will take unsafe activities seriously and we feel this is best for all of our guests. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I realize that not everything was smooth this past Christmas Holiday week. No doubt some or many of you were caught in long lines, including lifts lines that were longer than normal. Many of you probably also feel that we should rethink our new RFID ticketing program. We have had some glitches, but we are constantly working out the bugs. The Tuesday and Wednesday of the past week were tough. I would agree that we should have had two base quads and the Sachem lift running sooner this week. We were up against such a weather issue that we just did not have the time or temperatures to make enough snow to get those two lifts running. The wind on Tuesday was tough and our communication on wind holds, shuttle services and other things that changed were more than likely not up to par in many instances. My guess is that we probably upset many of you who are our skiing guests. We had lines in our culinary departments and lines trying to book ski and ride lessons. While it is no excuse, our staff has worked hard and because of the weather in November & December, we were unable to do as much training as we normally do. Again, not your fault or an excuse, but more of a reality. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My reason for mentioning these things is not for any sympathy or to excuse instances when we have fallen short. It is to let you know that we realize we had some issues, we do have some weaknesses and we do need to improve. I apologize for any inconvenience; we are sorry if you missed some skiing time and will do our best to make all of this up to you during the season. The Okemo TEAM is 100% committed to making your ski and ride experience the best possible and we are going to work doubly hard to keep you as a satisfied and loyal guest. The weather is a challenge, but out of our control. Our commitment is to improve and make better those things we can control and not worry about those things we cannot control. Our staff will remain positive and upbeat and look forward as 2016 arrives as we are all in this together! <br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I want to take an opportunity to THANK all of our loyal guest -- seasons pass holders and Okemo Friends who have supported us this season and the past Christmas vacation week. There has been some great skiing and riding and no doubt some not so great skiing and riding, but the worst is behind us and now we are moving forward. Cold weather and hopefully some snow are on the horizon and we are looking forward to it.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bruce Schmidt </span><br />
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Okemo GM</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489894306048879661.post-90628269215299396922015-12-31T15:34:00.000-05:002016-04-06T15:09:30.773-04:00Before & After<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ws-9bt1-c7M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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Take a look at the before and after effects of WS Goliath and the Okemo Snowmaking Crew. Amazing job at getting the mountain covered again! Video was shot on days 12-26-15 and 12-30-15.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17143456651768777161noreply@blogger.com0