Opening day at Chester Bowl included new investment from Essentia

Opening day of the Chester Bowl Ski and Snowboard Hill just happened to fall on the first day of Christmas break for Duluth students.

And at 11am on Wednesday, the chairlift brought up the first skiers and snowboarders.

This year, there is an additional reason to celebrate opening day. Essentia Health has awarded a $25,000 grant to Chester Bowl for the development and expansion of their programs and infrastructure.

This significant and generous gift will allow Chester Bowl to both provide current programs such as the winter ski and snowboard program and summer day camp, at affordable rates, while also planning for future growth and infrastructure upgrades.

A consistent supporter or the Chester Bowl community, this Essentia donation is in addition to a similar $20,000 grant in 2019 and an $18,500 grant in 2016 that allowed Chester Bowl to begin its snowboard rental program.

Chester Bowl believes that anyone who wants to ski or snowboard should have access regardless of income. The club consistently makes this possible, through scholarships, free lessons, and low-priced concessions. This year the CBIC has already awarded more than $28,600 in scholarships for season passes and equipment rentals