News From Michigan Snowsports Industries Association

What's new on Michigan's Ski Slopes for the 2009/10 Winter

Skiers and boarders can look forward to a fun-filled winter with plenty of places to enjoy Michigan’s snow-filled slopes and trails.  With a combined total of 42 ski areas, boasting over 200 chairlifts, 840 runs, more than 40 terrain parks and hundreds of kilometers of groomed cross-country trails, there is something for everyone.  Read about what's new on the slopes:

What's New in Clothing for 2009/10:  Michigan ski shops debut hot new styles for cold weather
Whether you are a “rider” (snowboarder), “slider” (downhill skier) “glider” (cross country skier) or just enjoy wearing clothing that looks like you came off the slopes; ski and sporting goods shops across the state have a wide assortment of hot new clothing and gear for cold winter days.  Read about what's new in the shops:

"White Gold Card" Helps Skiers On A Budget
"White Gold Card" purchasers are entitled to ski one time at each of the 28 participating ski areas across the state during the 2009/2010 ski season for $189 (NOW $129 - our late-season discount price. Hurry only a limited number of cards remaining!). Purchasers are also entitled to one free ski tune-up (edge sharpen and wax) at participating MSIA ski retailers. Cards are available to purchase online in October.

COLD IS COOL -- Ski areas encourage kids to get out, have fun, and get healthy with free skiing for fourth graders!
The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) wants to give Michigan kids an opportunity to get out, have fun and get healthy this winter. This is why MSIA has established a state-wide program which provides every fourth grader in Michigan the opportunity to ski for free. Endorsed by Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, fourth graders can obtain a "Cold is Cool" Ski & Ride Passport that gives them up to three free lift tickets or trail passes at 20 participating ski areas.

Suzy"Chapstick" Chaffee wants Native Americans to enjoy ski slopes and trails

She is spreading the word to all Native Americans that skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter.

Michigan Slopes Win over Families with Kid-friendly Specials
Michigan ski areas want families to enjoy the sport of skiing and snowboarding, and they do their share to offer kid-friendly programs and discounts. Most ski areas offer reduced lift tickets for children and some even offer free skiing for certain ages. They also provide learn-to-ski programs, daycare and NASTAR racing. "Skiing is a great activity for kids, it gets them outside for fresh air and exercise," says Steve Kershner, Michigan Snowsports Industries Association, (MSIA) chairman and director of skiing for Shanty Creek.

McDonald's "Discover Michigan Skiing" Makes Learning to Ski or Snowboard a Breeze in January
Ski areas across the state have teamed up with Michigan McDonald's restaurants to offer a popular and very affordable introduction to the sport of skiing and snowboarding. Called Discover Michigan Skiing, the program is designed to introduce a healthy outdoor winter activity to Michigan's residents.

Michigan Snowsports Industries Association Elects Officers
November, 2008–The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) announces the results of its recent election of officers in October. The board re-elected the following officers to continue in their positions: Steve Kershner as chairman; Joe Bruhn as vice-chairman; and Dave Hofacker as treasurer.

Michigan Snowsports Industries Association Commits to Wind Power
The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) has made a commitment to renewable wind energy by powering its office with wind. MSIA is purchasing wind credits, joining the likes of the University of Michigan, Crystal Mountain, Harvard University, Whole Foods and Vail Resorts in selecting renewable energy as its source for electricity.

US Ski Hall of Fame in Ishpeming, Michigan Honors Those Who Helped Build Snowsports in America
The US Ski Hall of Fame Inductees for 2007 are Jonny Mosely, Julie Parisien and Trace Worthington. 

Michigan Ski Hall of Fame Pays Tribute to Those Who Helped Build Michigan Snowsports
Al Almon of Gaylord and James Dilworth, formerly of Harbor Springs, were inducted into the Michigan Ski Hall of Fame during a reception at Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville in August 2006.

Snowmaking Facts
Even if the ground is bare, with just a little cold weather Michigan's ski slopes can be blanketed in white.

MSIA Announces Winners of Commercial Contest
Joseph Diaz, a student at Bridgeport High School in Saginaw, was the grand-prize winner in the Michigan Ski and Ride Video Contest. Winners were announced at the Michigan Ski & Ride Film Festival, Saturday, March 11, 2006 at Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan.