Under the gaze of the imposing Spanish Peaks in southern Colorado, the 50-acre Parker-Fitzgerald Cuchara Mountain Park is the story of so many American ski areas, only the community was determined to change the script
Ski resorts boomed in the 70s and 80s, emerging even in areas that didn't have the climate or workers to sustain them long-term. First-time ski resort owners took on debt and quickly filed for bankruptcy after a bad snow season. Ownerships transferred numerous times before resorts calcified into ghost towns.
“It’s not necessarily about drawing overnight or out-of-town guests, but about bringing positive economic impact and a source of physical and mental wellness for the community,” said Adrienne Isaac, marketing director for the National Ski Areas Association.Cuchara shuttered in 2000 after years of mismanagement, unpredictable snow and bankruptcies. It was dead for 16 years, when a group of stubborn locals with fond memories of the mountain came together.
Finally, when cold air and snowstorms arrived in late winter, Cuchara's maintenance director had an idea. They welded old school bus seats to a car-hauling trailer and hitched it to a snowcat, a tractor with snow treads, then put out the word they would be towing people up the mountain. “We’re trying to give the community something because they’ve supported us for so long,” Clayton said.
For $320, a child can receive a season pass to the Wyoming mountain, rentals, and four lessons. The foundation covers families who can't afford the cost. They also host classes for area schools that introduce kids to cross country and downhill skiing.
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ben Affleck speaking fluent Spanish is tripping people out | CNNThe internet's memory can be both long and short when it comes to celebrities.
Read more »
Spanish actress Ana Obregón, 68, welcomes late son's biological baby via surrogateSpanish actress Ana Obregón has welcomed a new baby into the world, clarifying that the child is her granddaughter and biologically the daughter of her late son.
Read more »
Mother and grandmother to the same baby: Spanish actress sparks surrogacy debate | CNNA Spanish TV actress has sparked controversy after using a surrogate to fulfil what she says was the final wish of her dead son: to have a child.
Read more »
Ben Affleck Doing Entire Interview in Fluent Spanish is Blowing MindsBen Affleck has the internet talking (again) with his Spanish language skills.
Read more »