Owners: Cyndy Sisto and Nick Mir
Company Name: Snow Ridge Ski Resort
Years in Business: Snow Ridge has been in business since 1945, but Cyndy and Nick have owned the Resort since 2015.
Number of Employees: Around 50 during peak season
Describe Your Success Story:
Snow Ridge has been a staple of Lewis County since it was founded back in 1945. The area's natural snowfall has given the Resort an exceptional reputation throughout the industry, offering up some of the best snow in the world to skiers and snowboarders. Cyndy and Nick have over 50 years of combined experience in the ski industry, working at resorts in New York, Colorado, and Oregon.
Why did you choose to do business in Lewis County?
"We fell in love with Snow Ridge and the surrounding area from the first visit we made a couple of years ago. Obviously, the Tug Hill's famous snowfall was a huge draw for us as well. Through speaking with a number of people about the business and Lewis County, it became clear that they really loved it here and they were proud of where they came from."
What are the advantages of doing business in Lewis County?
"One of our biggest advantages is the lake effect snow. We are in a very unique and fortuitous situation as a business that relies 100% on snow. We do still need to make snow, as almost every other ski area in the northeast does, but our natural snowfall reduces that need greatly. Another huge advantage is our neighbors. The people of Lewis County have been nothing but kind and encouraging throughout our first year at the resort."
What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Lewis County?
"Just like starting a business anywhere, it's going to take time. We've had to learn to be patient, optimistic, and just keep moving forward."
How has Naturally Lewis helped you in your business journey?
"Naturally Lewis played a major role in our acquisition of Snow Ridge. They were the contact we needed to really get the ball rolling and they ended up extending us financing to help finalize the deal. Without their help, it's very likely that Cyndy and I would not be here today!"