Sunrise Snow Cat…Meee-Ow!

You may have seen the Sunrise Snow Cat grooming the ski-on and ski-off trails in our community during the early evenings.  Here is a little bit of history about our cat: The SHA purchased the 1989 Tucker Snow Cat in November of 2008. Initially, the purchase of the snow cat was somewhat controversial; board members were clearly divided on the value of purchasing and maintaining our own equipment, and the necessity of grooming the access trails. Since that contested purchase, the cat has proved to be a good investment. Our goal is to maintain all community access trails to Sundog and Bear Cub every Friday and Saturday evening, and after snow storms so homeowners and guests receive the full benefit of a ski-on and ski-off community. Out of respect for Killington’s policy and skier safety, we groom the trails only after lifts close.

Tim (L) and Karl (R)

Sunrise has two dedicated staff members who operate the Snow Cat, Tim Plausteiner and Karl Champine.  Karl is a long-time employee to Sunrise having started here in 1995. Karl can also be seen operating the front loader to remove the giant snow piles around the parking lots. During the summer, Karl’s carpentry skills take over, and he is part of the team which builds the decks and walkways throughout the Sunrise Condos area. During the summer, Karl is a seriously good softball player; his team has won many Rutland league championships.

Tim Plausteiner joined the Sunrise staff in 2011. Tim has years of experience grooming, since his family was involved with Ascutney mountain for many years. Tim also assists with snow removal, building maintenance, and is the back-up water and wastewater operator. Tim is an avid big game hunter, and loves traveling the back roads of Vermont with his wife of 25 years.