Monarch finally getting the white stuff

Doesn't look like the dumping at Silverton, but check out the webcams here: www.skimonarch.com/webcams.asp.

(I'll hyperlink if I get into the office today. Can't do it from home on my Mac.)

Monarch relies on Mother Nature, and has had to delay opening. Same with Ski Cooper. Leadville is reporting 32 degrees and mist, with a couple of inches possible today and tonight. We'll keep checking in to see if these Gems look like they can open anytime soon.

Work where you play

Taking a semester off? Tired of working for the man? Need a second career?

Monarch Mountain is hiring full and part time staff for the 2007-08 season, and there's a job fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m. tomorrow at the Chaffee County Fair Grounds.

Sign on to work Ski School, Building Maintenance, Lift Operations, Food & Beverage, Guest Services, Ski Patrol, Rental Shop, Ticket Office, Sport Shop, and Slope Maintenance.

You get a paycheck AND ski pass for yourself and family, among other perks.

Think snow! Think 10 mountains in 1 pass!

(Screen shot from the oh-so-fun Ski Stunt Simulator physics game

Monarch Mountain has teamed up with 9 other ski areas for a 07-08 ski pass that offeres free days at some mountains and discounts at others.

You'll get 3 free days at Crested Butte, Loveland, Purgatory, Sunlight and Powderhorn...

and 1 free day at Silverton Mountain during the unguided season.

Head to New Mexico and 3 free days at Angel Fire and Pajarito Mountain.

And ski for half price at Alta in Utah.

If you've got a pass from one of the partner resorts, you'll get a deal at Monarch. Sweet if you've got friends or relatives closer to one of the 9 partners.

Monarch season passes cost $299 through Nov. 3 -- $179 ages 13-15 or ages 62-69, $89 ages 7-12. Skiers 6 and younger or 70 and older are free.