January 2008

Here are two of my New Year's resolutions for 2008:
1. To spend more time outside
2. To be more socially conscious about how I spend money.

That being said, I can't help but notice how easy the local resorts are making it for me. February appears to be a month of good causes, and I'd like to take a minute to highlight some upcoming events that you should mark on your calendar.

The first event, "Skis, Boards, and Badges," takes place at Butternut on Friday, Feb. 1. Under the leadership of Trooper Jeff Galm and Jimmy Talleur, this project has evolved over the past ten years or so from a casual skiing get-together of the NY State Police Troop K to a full-fledged fundraising event for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. You can read the full story of the event's development at skisboardsandbadges.com.

On this first Friday of February, all law enforcement agencies and their families in NY, NJ, CT, and MA can take advantage of a special discounted lift ticket rate ($25 in advance, $30 at the door), but the public is also encouraged to come and show their support for the cause by participating in the MS fundraising raffle. Prizes for this year's raffle include lift tickets to other nearby resorts, amusement park passes, and ski and snowboarding equipment, among other treats. Last year, the event raised $2636, but organizers hope to do even better this year and continue the upward trend.

A little further north and a week and a half later, skiers and boarders can partake in another unique fundraiser that promises a delightful reward for participation. The event I speak of is the St. Jude Ski Express at Jiminy Peak on Sunday, Feb. 10, benefiting the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

On this particular day, a donation to St. Jude's buys line-cutting privileges for skiers and snowboarders. In other words, you will receive a wristband that allows you to "cut" the line at the Berkshire Express (Jiminy's six-passenger high-speed summit lift) via a special 'St Jude Ski Express' line in the corral. You can also participate by purchasing tickets for the fundraiser raffle at this event, too.

Lastly, what are you doing for Valentine's Day? Single or part of a couple, I have a suggestion that's a win-win for everyone: check out the Fairview Hospital Benefit Night at Catamount. These folks have been hosting this fundraiser for more than fifteen years. Buy a night pass to the mountain at the discounted rate of $15 (also $15 rentals and $10 lessons) and know that half the proceeds go directly to the hospital. The pass is good from 3 until 9 p.m., so why not come early and do a few runs before going out to a local restaurant for dinner? Remember to make a reservation for that dinner, of course, but when you do, check to see if they are one of the many local businesses who give a 10% discount when you show your same day Catamount lift ticket. You might save some money, have some fun, and do some good all in the same night.

About Cynthia Saunders  

Cynthia Saunders is a freelance writer and the  Director of Education for the Barrington Stage Company.  A North Adams native and current resident, she is excited to live within walking distance of her favorite restaurants, yoga studio, and movie theatre.  She can be contacted at cynthia.saunders@gmail.com.