Pocono News Section

Love It or Hate It Winter has Arrived

Love It or Hate It Winter has Arrived - Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 1:28PM EST

Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Wednesday, Dec 9, 2009 @ 01:28pm EST

MIDDLE SMITHFIELD TOWNSHIP, MONROE COUNTY - When Alfredo Mendez saw the snow start to fall he knew he'd have to bust out the shovel. He said, “It was mostly like wet. But it came down heavy. And this is the end result.”

That end result was a sloppy winter soup of snow, ice and rain water. Mendez said, “For the initial part you know – its cumbersome. You don’t want to hear about it.”

But some people – like the ones who sell ski and snowboard gear actually like the winter weather. “I’m excited. I can’t wait to get out there and snowboard," said Greg Lastra. He works at Starting Gate Action Sports on Route 209. He said once the ground is white, the cash registers collect green. He explained, “People start coming in for full tunes – edges and waxes – new boots – new bindings.” And Greg is ready for everyone. He spent all summer sharpening skis and preparing rental gear. He said,

"All the stuff is in tip top shape – fully waxed – fully tuned.”

Even in a shop full of shiny new winter gear, some people want to avoid the season. Eyewitness News met Jason Lin buying something very out of season, swim suits. He's taking his two kids swimming away from the winter mess, at an indoor pool.
Starting Gate expects to be extremely busy this weekend because the Shawnee Mountain Ski Area is scheduled to open.