It's been a painfully slow start to the ski season in the Western U.S. Some places have seen record warm temperatures and record low snowfall, prompting resorts to open late. Those that cranked out fake snow had trouble attracting avid skiers who prefer the real stuff. And all this means an economic hit.

An Ohio physician who suffered serious injuries to his knee is seeking more than $300,000 in damages from the Texas man who crashed into him from behind at Keystone Ski Resort. Dr. James Lutz of Cincinnati claims that Nathan Johnson of Ector, Texas, was recklessly skiing down the "Frenchman" at 1:50 p.m.

"GUEST SERVICE FEES (AN EXPLANATION)" or DO YOU HAVE MONEY TO BURN? If you have arrived at this page then you may well have searched for "Guest Service Fees", why you are being asked to pay them when booking a vacation rental and why they even exist!