NE Ski Report: It’s still a winter wonderland up north

Monumental is the word that best describes the New England skiing and riding season so far.Resorts in Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire have received more snow in the 2007/2008 season then some resorts received entirely last season.Sunday River, located in Bethel, Maine has been especially blessed with 100 inches of snow since opening day – 74 falling in December alone!This is as good as it gets for New England skiers and riders with over three months left of the regular season and conditions this good some places may stay open until May.January is usually the month when the mountains start having their major events. Some of the more interesting ones you may want to check out are highlighted below. For a more detailed reoprt, see Page B6.MaineSugarloaf – Jan. 28-29 “Special Olympic Winter Games” More than 500 athletes from communities throughout Maine enjoy the thrill of competition and camaraderie on and off the slopes. The biggest fireworks display and torchlight parade of the season are scheduled on Jan. 29.VermontMount Snow – Jan. 6 “Youth Pay Their Age Day” This is the second of three Youth Pay Their Age Day promotions which applies to children ages 6-18. Jan. 20 “Torchlight Parade & Fireworks Extravaganza” Mount Snow Ski & Snowboard School instructors descend in a torchlight glow beginning at 5:30 p.m., immediately following the sky lights up with a huge fireworks display.Killington – Jan. 6-18 “Collegiate Snow Fest” Two weeks of music, movies, parties and other activities geared toward college students. Jan. 19-25 “National Safety Awareness Week” This event reminds skiers and snowboarders of the “Heads Up – Know the Code” campaign geared towards educating skiers and riders of all ages about safety awareness on the slopes. Kids and adults will be able to participate in fun, educational activities.New HampshireGunstock Mountain Resort – Jan. 12-13 “70th Anniversary Weekend” Enjoy a weekend full of events celebrating Gunstock’s 70th anniversary including roaming entertainment Saturday and Sunday 1p.m.-4 p.m., a live band in the Main Hall, Saturday 6 p.m.-10 p.m. and Felicity the Clown, Sunday 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with games, balloons and fun for all ages.Loon – Jan. 12-13 “Droppin’ In Women’s Weekend Snowboard Camp” For women who want to improve their skills and make new friends this is a great opportunity. The Camp includes 2 days lift tickets, discounted lunch, professional coaching, a helmet from R.E.D, private park to train in and video review.