Tue Dec 30 12:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the text you provided:
Summary:
A labor dispute between the Telluride ski resort in Colorado and its ski patrollers’ union has led to a complete shutdown of the resort during a peak holiday weekend. The union rejected a contract offer from the resort, prompting a strike for higher pay. Tourists are left disappointed, and local businesses are worried about the financial impact. The resort owner claims the offer was generous, while the union says it had already lowered its initial demands.
News Article:
Telluride Ski Resort Shuts Down Amid Labor Dispute, Leaving Tourists Stranded
TELLURIDE, COLO. – The slopes of Telluride Ski Resort are eerily silent this holiday weekend after a breakdown in contract negotiations between the resort’s management and the Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association led to a strike. The resort, owned by California-based real estate investor Chuck Horning, has completely shut down operations, leaving vacationers disappointed and local businesses bracing for financial fallout.
The ski patrollers’ union, representing 78 members, voted to reject the resort’s latest contract offer, citing concerns over pay. “Closed” signs now block access to the mountain, disappointing tourists who have traveled from afar.
“This is the first time I’ve seen snow in six years,” said Alexander Caro, who flew in from Miami with his family.
Horning issued an open letter accusing the union of rejecting a generous offer, stating the proposed contract included “industry-leading, livable and sustainable” pay increases, bringing starting pay for patrollers to approximately $24 per hour.
Graham Hoffman, president of the ski patrol union, stated that the union had already reduced its initial demand for an $8 per hour increase. The strike will continue until a new agreement is reached. The length of the shutdown is unknown.
First Piper 