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May 2009

A Slightly Skeptical Look at Global Warming What is hype and what is real when it comes to global warming? Best/Worst Advertising: 2008/09 Our annual look at some of the highlights, and low points, in print and web advertising for both skiing and snowboarding. The "Not the 2007-08 Economic Analysis" How this author manages to not look at the annual industry economic report, but still come up with some good advice. Getting It Right When it comes to planning at your resort, it pays to be thorough. Maintaining a Patrol Is the future of the National Ski Patrol in jeopardy? Automation = Efficiency Improving snowmaking systems through automation can save valuable time and man hours while helping out the bottom line. Construction Site New lifts, new terrain and a cool training center are some of the projects that came on line this past season. Idea Files A sheave carrier, a new/old groomer and a chair flipper are the latest great ideas to come from resorts. Speak-Out — Conversion: Where Have You Gone? Trial and Conversion. Speak-Out — Correction Correction to "The H-2B Dilemma" (March 2009). Industry Reports VAIL RESORTS TO REQUIRE HELMETS... U.S. TICKET PRICES HIGHEST IN WORLD... RETAIL SALES FALL SHARPLY IN FEBRUARY... OBITUARIES... HONORS... PEOPLE... SUPPLIER NEWS Reits and Resorts With their goal of earning a steady return, REITs are good partners for a certain type of winter resort. 2009-10 Pass Sales Off to Mixed Start Results mostly match last season's snowfall and enthusiasm levels. How to Play in Social Media Social networks provide free tools for reaching out to your guests. Are you using them effectively? Who's in Charge? Forest Service personnel and budgets are drying up. Is there a solution? Blue Pages MOUNTAIN OF DOUBT... THE THOUGHTFUL CASE FOR BRAIN BUCKETS... FLAIK: TECHNOLOGY FOR A NEW AGE... SHORTSWINGS