...that eastern ski resorts can open early.

We here at the Source like to think of ourselves as optimists.

While our hearts are certainly with the victims of the Frankenstorm, which is battering the east coast and has already claimed at least 38 lives across eight states, flooded countless homes and business and left millions without power, we've been desperately searching for a bright spot in all this dark news.

I think we found it.

Snow in the mountains! Hopefully the early snow storm translates to a healthy ski season for the numerous Appalachian ski resorts throughout the Northeast. Many of them have already received two to three feet of snow, with more on the way, according to forecasters. 

As Hurricane Sandy bears down on the East Coast (see above graphic) and residents scramble to protect themselves from this historic storm, our staff scientists are asking the question, "is this storm in any way tied to an average rise in global temperatures across land and ocean surfaces?"

In the words of infamous climate-change-denier Sarah Palin, "You Betcha!"

The storm, which is already lashing northeastern states with high winds and heavy rains, is expected to hit land later today or tonight. And it's big one. Forecasters say that they expect the hurricane/Nor'Easter hybrid to "paralyze life for millions of people in more than a half-dozen states in the Northeast, with widespread power failures, a halt in transportation systems and extensive evacuations."

And just days before a presidential election in which global warming was largely ignored by both candidates! What's more expensive, continually cleaning up after these monsters or investing in green energy?

Whaa??!! What is this stuff on my windshield? Wasn't it just summer? Didn't we just have winter, like, two months ago?

It was 32 eFFing degrees when I got up this morning. I guess that's it. Thanks summer, it was fun! See you next July!

Actually, fall in Bend is spectacular and winter isn't too shabby either. Okay, never mind, the first frost of the season isn't really that big of a deal. And I suppose it makes sense being as the Autumnal Equinox is Sept. 22, only 1.5 weeks away.

Okay, carry on. Sorry for all the drama.

But pack some gloves, it's chilly out there.