5th Season's hotel is right there near the school on I40 and it's $40 a night. Not sure on free shuttle but I didnt hear about one. No, it's not too bad driving in snow but you do have to practice some before you get comfortable.
I interviewed yesterday and it was pretty laid back. Personal interview is first thing in the morning so you get that out of the way. Dont worry about the critical skills test too much. Group project is easy... well, as long as your group is good and pulls their weight

. I thought everyone in my group was pretty freaking sharp. All in all a good day.
Now I have to wait until mid Feb for an answer...