Killington, VT – Vermont’s Pico Mountain is kicking off the 2010-11 ski and snowboard season a day earlier than expected on Friday, Dec. 17 with United Way Day.nPico will contribute $20 to the United Way of Rutland County from each $39 Express Card sold on Dec. 17. Plus, everyone who purchases an Express Card on Dec. 17 will ski for free on opening day and make a contribution to an organization dedicated to helping those in the community.

“This is an exciting partnership for us and funds generated from Pico Mountain’s United Way Day will go a long way toward accomplishing our 2010 fundraising goal of $560,000,” says Chuck Sharp, Executive Director of the Rutland County United Way.

For the 2010-11 season, the Pico Express Card offers $29 mid-week, non-peak tickets and $39 weekend and peak day rates. The Express Card works like a season pass (with the skier/riders picture on it), and is linked to a credit card. The first time each day the Express Card is scanned at the lift, the credit card is automatically charged the discounted rate.

“We’re excited to open a day earlier than expected and offer our guests a free day of skiing, and a great deal on the Express Card, while supporting a great community cause,” said Tracy Taylor, Pico Mountain’s director of operations.

Pico Mountain will open for it’s 74th season on Dec. 17. Lift hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and peak days. Pico Mountain will also offer free learn to ski/ride lessons Dec. 18 through Dec. 24, including lift ticket, lesson and rentals.