The city may be snow-free but recently it's been getting cold enough at night to help launch ski season south of Buffalo. Holiday Valley is officially open for business.
With the help of manmade snow, four slopes and two lifts opened to skiers Saturday at Holiday Valley.
Marketing Director Jane Eshbaugh says anytime the resort can open before Christmas, they're happy.
"It is a little bit later, about a week later than the average opening date, but at least we're getting there," said Eshbaugh, who reports a base of two to 18 inches.
"Everybody's very excited, especially younger people, can't wait."
If mother nature cooperates this can be a busy time of year in Ellicottville, so Eshbaugh says everyone there would love a little more white on the ground.
"People are excited about Christmas coming, and they know that we'll have snow on the ground. But some natural snow would definitely brighten the mood a lot more."
Along with opening some of its slopes, Holiday Valley cut the ribbon on its new $12 million lodge.
"It's about 30 percent larger. It's got about 50 percent more seating capacity. And it's really spectacular."
The lodge's offerings include a food service area, a bar, coffee shop, equipment rental, day care and year-round conference rooms.