Late snow a surprise for skiers

This week’s big snowfall could not have come at a better time, at least for skiers.

Late season snow, supported by snowmaking efforts, certainly will extend the 2017 season. And even before the storm leveled off, the powder hounds were out on the slopes.

Jon Lundin, Director of Communications for the Olympic Regional Development Authority in Lake Placid says, “Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington, received over 14-inches of fresh powder and more snow was falling on Wednesday. It’s the biggest snowstorm of the sea-

son. Right in time for the Saint Patrick’s Day weekend.”

Comparing this season to last year, Lundin claims it is much better and business-wise, stronger with the number of visitors we’ve seen. ORDA is looking forward to its annual Spring Fest where live music, specials and warmer longer days can be enjoyed. Going by my notes, I see that the Outof-Control Ski Club (OC’s) of Albany, has some members spending this weekend in Lake Placid. If you buy next years season pass, you can ski/ride the balance of this season on ORDA’s other multi managed mountains. Belleayre Ski Resort in Highmount and Gore Mountain in North Creek, N. Y. Incidentally, Belleayre says it received 32 inches and Gore 24 inches.

The Schenectady Wintersports Club is holding Club Appreciation Days at its popular lodge in Waterbury, Vt., March 17-19 and April 7-9. The SWSC is a year-round organization with many family oriented events.

SWAC is a member of Northern New York Paddlers and it offers members Monday evening paddling on the Mohawk River at 6 p.m. I expect with the recent opening of Schenectady’s Rivers Casino, views from the river of that facility will be a special treat. The paddling takes place May through September. It kicks off each Monday from Kiwanis Park in Rotterdam Junction.