By all accounts, this was an incredible ski season. 134 days of operation, 337 – 375 inches of snowfall. 5,500 lessons taught. 3,900 baskets of french fries served. 146,000 Powder Text Alerts sent. 175 miles of toilet paper consumed. (Well done, people).

2018-19 will be remembered as one of the best seasons ever on the Best Snow in Idaho. And while Mother Nature plays a big role in a great ski season, we couldn’t do ANY of it without our dedicated and tireless staff. It takes more than 300 employees to make ski season happen. Brundage Mountain appreciates the efforts of every single one of these people.

Behind the scenes, lift mechanics, plow drivers, dishwashers, payroll processors, and many more dedicated folks do the hidden work that guests don’t see. Front line employees like lift operators, ski instructors, and those providing services in the lodge help fuel the stoke and make our guests feel welcome each and every day.

All of those folks are key to a successful season, but earlier this week, we honored several standout staff members who were nominated by their peers for extra accolades:

The 2018-19 Brundie Award Winners:

Spirit of Brundage Award: Cameron White – Lift Operator

“He has such an awesome vibe while working on the lifts and off the clock. Super friendly and always shares his great smile and enthusiasm.”

“Always going out of his way to take the extra step and help others, inside and outside of work. Worked extra days and late hours throughout the season to cover others shifts and pick up slack.”

“Cameron has strong leadership qualities, great communication, and attention to detail. He really cares about doing a good job and runs a tight ship. His positive energy and strong work ethic are contagious. He sets a great example of what every liftie should be.”

Everyday Leader Tom Kerchinski, with Mother Hen Award Winner Rachel Wessel

Everyday Leadership Award: Tom Kerchinski – Lift Ops Manager

“Tom deserves this award for coming to work every day and getting everyone excited to work even when some weren’t. When he had a lot of work to do, he made a list and took it step by step. He always has time to listen to others.”

“Tom’s team was excellent this year and his leadership is a huge driving for in keeping the Lift Ops department going strong.”

Rookie of the Year Sam Hoe, with co-worker and 2017-18 Rookie of the Year Winner, Courtney Cotter

Rookie of the Year: Sam Hoe – Guest Services

“Sam’s customer service skill and enthusiasm is inspiring!”

“Sam CRUSHED it every day in Guest Services and is super enthusiastic about all aspects of the mountain. Awesome team member.”

Guest Experience Award: Jade Ashley – Lift Operator

Co-worker nomination: “Jade has been really great at engaging with guests and has been making Bear Chair a lot of fun for employees and guests.”

Unsolicited Nomination from a Guest: “My wife and I would like to give a big shout out to your lift operator Jade Ashley. Jade is always smiling, engaging and ever alert. Even with her small stature, she hold back the chairs better than anyone else and it’s always a pleasure to see her.”

Helping Hand Award: Courtney Donaca – Facilities Maintenance

“Courtney is always moving and doing something. She is always looking for a project and willing to pitch in.”

“Courtney is always willing to jump in and help when needed and she does it with a smile! Her laugh is so infectious!”

Cheerleader Award: Anita Bosman – Smoky’s Bar & Grill

“I don’t think I have ever seen Anita stand still! When she’s not providing excellent customer service to her own tables, is is always helping bus tables, tackling a cleaning or organizing project, or generally stepping up to make Smoky’s a great place to hand out. She always notices is one of us is having an ‘off’ day and more than once has written a special card to cheer someone up. I’m always happy when we work on the same day.”

Safety Sally Award: Angela Staup – Terrain Park Manager

“Always focused on making the park as safe, informative and FUN as possible! Works uber hard.”

“The park speaks for itself. The focus of fun and safety was admirable.”

The “Thank You for Sending It” Award: Mark Stoeckl – Videographer & BTV Ninja

“He rocked it this year in filming our BTV videos and always showing people what a fun time we have here at Brundage. This man knows how to keep sending it!”

“Mark is always trying his hardest to get the best footage of his models sending it. Crushes it every week on the BTV videos.”

View Mark’s Work With a Walk Down Memory Lane: BTV Video Gallery

Special Awards:

Mother Hen Award: Rachel Wessel – HR (pictured above)

“Golden Sweep” Award: Peggy Bryan – Ski Patrol Director, Retiring After 37 years.

Read more on Peggy’s impressive run and lifetime of service here.