Opening Dates, Conditions
Nov. 9, 2000
The snowfall is not all bad news.
News Specialist Jed Boal reports the ski season is headed uphill a bit early for a change.
Last year, skiers and snowboarders didn't get riding until December, and the season never really measured up to expectations.
But, long-time Utah skiers say this is more like it, and the resorts hope they're in for a blizzard of business.
Skiers and snowboarders, resort operators and gear shops all have reason to cheer.
"THIS IS UTAH. THIS IS GOOD SNOW NOW. WE'RE BACK TO NORMAL."
Early winter was a wipe-out last year. That kept out-of-towners away and left locals uninspired.
But, the inspiration is back.
Kip Pitou/Ski Utah: "PEOPLE ARE GOING TO LOOK UP THERE AND SAY 'LET'S GET STARTED EARLY THIS YEAR.'"
Brighton opened today, and by the weekend Snowbird, Solitude, Park City and Brian Head will all take their turns.
And it's official...
Flanked by resort representatives, the Governor of the state with the Greatest Snow On Earth signed a proclamation for Novermber.
Mike Leavitt plans to ski this weekend with other shreddin' statesmen. But, would he play hooky from work to hit the Utah slopes?
Governor Mike Leavitt: "IT WOULD LIKELY NOT BE IN MY BEST INTERESTS TO ADMIT TO THAT WITH A MICROPHONE ON. BUT, IN MY EXPERIENCE THERE ARE PLENTY OF US UP THERE DOING IT."
Sking and boarding bring $750-million into the state each year.
The sales tax revenue helps pay for schools and roads.
Governor Mike Leavitt: "THIS IS WHITE GOLD FALLING FROM THE SKY."
Good news for sport shops too.
Most skiers wait until the snow flies to get their boards in for a grind and wax.
This week ski business is piling up with the snow, and so are the sales.
Matt Hughes/Wasatch Touring: "THIS IS THE BEST START THAT WE'VE HAD IN THE STORE IN THE LAST FOUR OR FIVE YEARS, I'D SAY."
If you've never skied or been on a snowboard, the governor and Ski Utah encourage you to give it a shot.
