SAM Magazine-Princeton, Mass., Nov. 7, 2008-Despite the flurry of recent negative economic news, Wachusett Mountain Ski Area has seen several positive indicators this fall.

Among them: attendance at the resort's several fall festivals was up more than 20 percent, including record attendance at some events. Sales during the annual Columbus Day equipment swap were up 22 percent, and sales at the area's sport shop throughout the fall have been among the strongest ever. "With our customers making retail purchases at this point in the season, we are encouraged they are planning to ski and ride just as frequently this winter," said Wachusett general manager David Crowley. In addition, sales of the early-purchase season's passes were up 27 percent through Oct. 29 compared to a year earlier.

"Heading into the ski season, initially we were nervous," Crowley acknowledged. "However, we are now delighted by the signs we are seeing. Our central location-being within about a 1 hour drive from a population base of more than 8 million people-makes us an economical local choice for recreational activities." \