teachski
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BARRE, MA — It's that special time of the year when ski areas, large and small, are busy preparing for the upcoming season. Regardless of the size of the area there's a lot to do to be ready for that opening day. Lifts need to be tested and inspected, the "mice" get blown out of the snowmaking equipment, groomers are readied, the rental fleet is inspected and prepped for the the season, ski school groups are being recruited, passes sold and any other tasks completed, all in an effort to ensure a smooth beginning to the ski season.
Pine Ridge Snow Park in Barre, Massachusetts, though quite small, is no exception. In fact, this Fall may take just a little more prep work to get the area ready for opening, due to a small fire ignited by a lightening strike in the early morning hours of August 21st. This fire damaged the area's rental shop and it needs to be repaired, equipment aired and cleaned of soot. Fortunately for the ski area the fire was contained in the fitting room and did not directly effect the equipment, much of which was purchased last season.
Fire damage to the rental shop in August of 2004
The area is also in the process of contacting employees from last season. All employees have been sent an Email or letter and have been asked to respond with their intentions. While it is not confirmed at this time, the area is also considering expanding it's operating hours. Last year it ran Friday evenings 6pm-10pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 9-4. The area was also open for holidays and the February school vacation.
Last season, the first for current owners Jim and Dale Caruso got off to a difficult start when the compressor to operate snowmaking machinery, that worked when tested, failed to operate. A new compressor as well as several new fan jets have been purchased since that time. The area is planning to open as early in December this year as it possibly can, providing that mother nature is more cooperative with them for a change.
Pine Ridge rope tow, rental shop and lodge
Pine Ridge is currently seeking motivated and reliable people for ski patrol, ski school and area operations. If you are interested in working at Pine Ridge Snow Park, Ken from management can be contacted at randklowe@charter.net.
Pine Ridge Snow Park in Barre, Massachusetts, though quite small, is no exception. In fact, this Fall may take just a little more prep work to get the area ready for opening, due to a small fire ignited by a lightening strike in the early morning hours of August 21st. This fire damaged the area's rental shop and it needs to be repaired, equipment aired and cleaned of soot. Fortunately for the ski area the fire was contained in the fitting room and did not directly effect the equipment, much of which was purchased last season.
Fire damage to the rental shop in August of 2004
The area is also in the process of contacting employees from last season. All employees have been sent an Email or letter and have been asked to respond with their intentions. While it is not confirmed at this time, the area is also considering expanding it's operating hours. Last year it ran Friday evenings 6pm-10pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 9-4. The area was also open for holidays and the February school vacation.
Last season, the first for current owners Jim and Dale Caruso got off to a difficult start when the compressor to operate snowmaking machinery, that worked when tested, failed to operate. A new compressor as well as several new fan jets have been purchased since that time. The area is planning to open as early in December this year as it possibly can, providing that mother nature is more cooperative with them for a change.
Pine Ridge rope tow, rental shop and lodge
Pine Ridge is currently seeking motivated and reliable people for ski patrol, ski school and area operations. If you are interested in working at Pine Ridge Snow Park, Ken from management can be contacted at randklowe@charter.net.
