Full time staff at the Mount Sima ski area are busy getting ready for a planned season opening of Dec. 18.

In the meantime, the new board is working on a number of projects under the leadership of newly appointed president Craig Hougen. Don Wilson has assumed the role of vice president of the board, replacing Hougen in that role. Keith Thaxter, past president, remains as advisor to the board

"Both the staff and the board are fully engaged as we draw closer to the planned opening of Dec. 18," said Hougen in a press release.

"The outdoor operations team has been working to ensure all equipment is ready to go, snow making and grooming teams are getting the hill in shape and a new food service team has been developing menus and setting up the Last Run Lounge and the Snow Pit Cafe.

Wilson expressed his pleasure with the development of the food and beverage service.

"We will now be able to offer a much broader range of menu items including the lunch punch card for kids offering healthy lunches for just $6.50 a day in the family oriented Snowpit Cafe. Adults will be able to relax and enjoy an adult menu and a great view upstairs in the Last Run Lounge. The chalet is looking great," said Wilson.

The snow school now boasts instructors from around the globe and is offering ski and snow board Instructor Level 1 courses in December.

As well, the Alpine Ski Association Yukon is offering a CSCF Entry Level coaching course presented by Pierre Ruel. Ruel, a highly respected and sought after instructor, is the technical director for the Canadian Ski Coaches Federation.

"With all the changes, talented fulltime staff and new board we are looking forward to opening and welcoming all our supporters and the community back to see the new Sima," Hougen said.