Business Notebook: It makes ‘snow' difference

Warwick - Anyone flying over Warwick on Thursday, Jan. 19, just one day after a period of torrential rain and warm weather, could easily spot Mt. Peter Ski Area from the air. It was the only place with snow. That wasn’t a miracle of nature. It was the result of careful planning in advance of the rainstorm along with an increase in the ski area’s snow making capability. “We’ve added almost 40 per cent more snow guns this season,” said Mt. Peter Director Rebecca Sampson. “And the new guns can actually make a better quality snow at higher temperatures and humidity levels than the older ones. We’re excited to have added this new equipment to what was already an extensive snow-making system.” A popular term for man-made snow is “artificial snow.” But, as Sampson explained, the snow guns do not produce “artificial” snow. Snow is snow no matter how it arrives. Mother Nature’s snow is formed when the water vapor in clouds condenses and, assuming temperatures are low enough, falls to the ground as snow. Although it may not fall as far, man-made snow is created the same way. The source of the water for man-made snow at Mt. Peter is a large pond at the foot of the mountain. And that water is replenished by both natural and man-made snow as it melts every spring. The increased snow-making capability at the Warwick ski area also comes into play when rain or a thaw is anticipated. Huge piles of snow, more likely to resist adverse weather, are strategically positioned alongside the slopes where they can be plowed back onto the ski runs. The only problem with a few unseasonably warm days or heavy rain is that when snow is out of sight it’s also out of mind. But skiers and snow boarders can rest assured that Mt. Peter will almost always have excellent conditions throughout the season. For recorded information on conditions updated daily call 986-4992. For information on lessons, upcoming events and other activities call 986-4940. Warwick Valley Chamber plans The Directors of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce recently elected Warwick attorney Robert E. Krahulik to serve as the new board president for 2006. Krahulik is partner in the law firm of Bonacic, LoBiondo & Krahulik, LLP. He is also a past president of the chamber. “I again look forward to serving the Warwick business community as president of our Chamber of Commerce,” said Krahulik. “Over the years, the chamber has enjoyed many successes including Applefest, A Taste of Warwick and the introduction of the Warwick Partnership. But there is more to be accomplished.” For example, Krahulik mentioned that increasing taxes and rents pose an extraordinary burden on business owners as well as residents. “Development of a broad town-wide economic development plan to attract commercial growth and development can help reduce the burden,” he said. “Attracting desirable businesses, accelerating the approval process, and reducing development expenses can stimulate economic development. Hopefully, the Chamber can be instrumental in achieving these goals.” Krahulik added that the Village of Warwick’s Merchant’s Guild is in need of revitalization. He also mentioned that Greenwood Lake, Pine Island and Florida are important partners and deserve more of the Chamber’s attention. He pointed out that Greenwood Lake in particularly possesses incredible potential for turnaround and economic growth. “I hope to increase the Chamber’s role in serving all or our ‘Main Street’ communities,” he said. The Chamber’s new Board of Directors also agreed that a top priority is increasing the role of the membership at large. The officers are currently looking for committee members to serve on the Economic Development Committee, Government Affairs Committee, and Events Committee. Anyone interested in serving should contact the Chamber’s Executive Director Linda Glohs at 986-2720. “Participation on a committee is critical to your investment as a Chamber Member,” said Krahulik. “Your contribution toward the work of the Chamber will pay dividends.”