In other (and happy) election news, the results are in for Sunlight Mountain Resort’s inaugural mayoral race. Eight-year-old Gabby Noyes of Silt beat out the incumbent Mini-Mayor by just 26 votes with nearly 10,000 total votes cast in the election.

Last November, four-year-old Elijah Mattson of New Castle was appointed as the ski area’s first Mini-Mayor after his impassioned plea via social media for Sunlight to open early for the 2015/2016 season. But his year, the resort decided to implement an official election for the newly formed office position.

“The new election gives a voice to a previously underrepresented, but essential segment of young powder hounds,” says Sunlight Mountain Resort’s marketing director Troy Hawks.

In all, 14 little rippers under the age of 12 ran for office, but Noyes’ platform stood out, which promises to get kids involved with recycling, gardening, and outside activities. Mini-Mayor Noyes will serve a one-year term (with a two-term limit) and is entitled to a free season pass, standard-issue official Mini-Mayor skis or snowboard, and a seat at Sunlight’s Executive Table for the season. 

On December 9, the affordable, locally loved mountain opens, marking its 50th year in business with a birthday celebration planned for December 16. Brush up on the history of Sunlight Mountain Resort and rundown of special events in the holiday issue of Aspen Sojourner, out around town now. For more information, season passes, and lift tickets visit sunlightmtn.com.