The first week of operations at Mont Saint-Sauveur a successThe 2007-2008 ski season has taken flight!  Saint Sauveur, Wednesday November, 2007 – Mont Saint-Sauveur, the only center open in Québec, has had a satisfactory first week of operations; the early opening of the center is already showing a positive impact on the region’s economy.  Impatient for the launching of the season, skiers and snowboarders were present, ready for their first run down the mountain. «The attendance of the past weekend and the enthusiasm proves that skiing and snowboarding is still as popular as ever.  Contrary to last year, when the industry had a disappointing beginning, this year’s early start to the ski season has perked up the interest of snow enthusiasts; an increased number of people are purchasing season passes this year. » says Louis-Philippe Hébert, president and chief of operations at (MSSI) Mont Saint-Sauveur International. The industry’s spokes people feel the same way.  Alexis Boyer-Lafontaine, director of public affairs at l’Association des stations du Québec (ASSQ), believes that the news is positive for Québec’s ski centers.  « The Québec ski industry is proud to see that centers are prepared to open their doors this early in the season. . .  It proves that snowmaking systems are efficient during this lack of snowfall», says the director. After a six month wait, Saint-Sauveur’s business owners were eagerly awaiting the announcement of the early opening date of Mont Saint-Sauveur. «Numbers go up once the ski center opens its doors.  During the opening weekend, the increase in clientele was evident. » said Pascal Pagé, owner of La Belle Province restaurant. It is a known fact that the ski industry plays a huge role in the economy of the Laurentians.  The Vallée de Saint Sauveur’s ski centers alone create more than 3000 jobs. The center continues to improve its launching.  Skiable terrain is increasing with every passing day with two runs and one snow park ready to welcome snow lovers this weekend.  It is safe to say that the return of Friday and Saturday evening skiing will attract an increased number of skiers to the mountain this weekend.