Reflections of Powder Ridge, Share Your Memories!

Plagued with curiosity, I took the opportunity of exploring the once festive and lively property of Powder Ridge. 

This was my first time walking the parcel since it had been so terribly vandalized.  I was speechless over the damage.  Shattered glass, stripped electrical panels, smashed computer monitors, an overturned desk, graffiti, beer cups thrown to the floor, books, pamphlets, shoulder slings and backboards all littered the grounds. 

I turned and took a deep breath of the fresh spring air and gazed to the top of the grassy slope.  Abandoned and abused, Powder Ridge for some reason had a positive energy about it that captured my attention. 

I walked past the restaurant, now in disarray, sheltering the old fireplace still intact.  I pictured rosy cheeked children warming by the fire and sipping hot chocolate.  I could envision what was once laughter and friends enjoying the company of each other over karaoke and yummy steamed cheeseburgers.  I reflected on the tales of crazy downhill races on cafeteria trays, rounds of late night kamikazes and long island ice tea, New Year’s Eve memories of only torch lit slopes from a midnight train of skiers, and free skiing in the spring when the snow finally began to disappear. 

As I was walking in front of the ticket window I found a hand written note abandoned to the ground.  “Merry Christmas Michael, This entitles you to eighteen dollars worth of skiing at Powder Ridge Ski Area.” 

Before leaving, I reflected on the adventures, the stories that will remain with people forever and pictured a lighted powdery mountain full of energy and festive music that once again brings cheerful smiles.