The Crystella Project

The small town of Cystal Falls, MI was one among many that felt a hard hit in recent years from the ecomonic recession. Not only has the recession negatively impacted school enrollment and programs/classes and the city council buget and employment it has also affected recreational opportunities that were sparce to begin with. The Crystella Ski Hill was once owned and operated by the city of Crystal Falls. The last year an attempt was made to reopen the ski hill was the winter of 2008-2009 which failed. Besides a gym that recently closed, this was one of the few resources local residents had to socialize and stay fit. In recent months a group of young volunteers came together, formed a non-profit organization (The Crystella Recreational Association-CRA), worked with the city council towards a lease agreement and insurance coverage (the difference paid by the CRA)revitalized the building and hill and is currently looking to open the hill shortly. However, to keep the hill open the CRA needs more donations to cover operating expenses. The CRA is optimistic about Crystella's future and would like to purchase a snow machine for the coming winter seasons.