SAM Magazine-Hidden Valley, Pa., July 23, 2008-Scott Bender has joined the Buncher Resort & Hospitality Group, LLC as vice president of resort operations and will lead the management team at Hidden Valley Four Seasons Resort. Bender was formerly the president and CEO of neighboring Seven Springs Mountain Resort, where he worked for more than 25 years.

"In the short time since acquiring Hidden Valley, the Buncher Group has demonstrated their commitment to the community and the long-term development of the resort," said Bender. "The resort has wonderful ski facilities, great four-season appeal and an incredible amount of potential. I'm very enthused to be a part of the expansion and improvement program that is planned and currently underway."

It's an ambitious program. In the four months after it acquired the resort in August 2007, Buncher renovated the base lodge facilities, installed 30 automated TechnoAlpin fan guns and two miles of new pipe, retrofitted 21 SMI portable to semi-automatic Polecats, refurbished the lifts including the addition of an Emmegi loading conveyor on the Summit Quad, added two Pisten Bully groomers and a Zaug half pipe cutter, replaced the snowboard rental fleet along with 60 percent of the ski rental fleet, and replaced the point of sale system.

For the upcoming season, Hidden Valley is replacing two old doubles with a new quad with another Emmegi loading conveyor. Also going in are 50 more TechnoAlpin fan guns, full automation of the pumping system, a conveyor lift at the tubing park, upgrades for the remaining 40 percent of the ski/boot rental fleet, plus new maintenance and skier services buildings. Base-area real estate development continues as well. To promote summer activities, Hidden Valley is restoring its 18-hole golf course, reviving its mountain biking operations and adding mountain board and paddleboat rentals.

"We are very pleased that Scott has come to lead our team at Hidden Valley," said Bill Doring, executive VP/treasurer for Buncher. "His guidance will enable us to develop innovative products for our customers that fully utilize the attributes of the resort. We look forward to a bright future at Hidden Valley under Scott's direction." \

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