Lack Of Winter Is Hurting Some Local Businesses

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- While many people around the tri-state area have welcomed the warm air this winter some are saying that it has hurt their bottom line.

Joe Sparacio of Cora Housewares And Hardware in Riverdale told CBS2's Vanessa Murdock that snow is his winter cash cow.

"We really count on the snow in january and February to get us through the winter months," he said.

A lack of the white stuff means tough times.

"It's been a challenge to keep the store going," said Sparacio, "We're praying for a little bit of snow."

They aren't the only ones. At the pedigree ski shop in White Plains ninety percent of the business is driven by the winter, as a result of this year's weather sales are way down.

"This winter has been definitely tough because of the lack of snow right here on the ground and the warmer temperatures," said Michael Furst.

But while the weather may be bad for some, for others it means big business.

Managers at the Westchester Golf Range say a mild winter is exactly what they need. Record breaking rain in 2011 meant a lot less play, but a warm 2012 means that they may be able to recoup some of those losses.

Warmer weather also means that oil and gas price hikes are being offset by a reduced need for home heating.

How are you spending the dog days of January and February? Let us know in our comments section below...