Mt. Ashland Opens Today With Limited Terrain for the 2025-2026 Season

Mt. Ashland Ski Area announced it will open for the 2025-26 winter season today, with limited terrain available. Guests will notice several exciting upgrades this season, including additional LED night lighting on the Lithia Chairlift and the expansion of Twilight Skiing terrain to include Lupine and Poma in preparation for Twilight Skiing beginning January 8, as well as the newly paved Karen & Sid DeBoer Lodge guest plaza and new directional signage inside The Lodge. The Sonnet Chairlift, Lithia Chairlift, and the First Act Learning Carpet will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A limited-time $18 Sonnet single-day lift ticket, which includes access to Sonnet Chairlift, Lithia Chairlift and First Act, is available. Open terrain will include Sonnet for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Poma and Lupine will be open for expert riders only, as snow coverage is thin and limited. All core services will be available in varying capacities. While the season’s snowfall to date is approximately 70% below average, the Mt. Ashland team is working to open terrain and get skiers and snowboarders back on the slopes as soon as possible. ...Read more

Commissioner Smith Leaves Meeting, Sites Litigation against Him, County

Commissioner Ron Smith departed during the initial roll call of the 8th Commissioner meeting stating there was litigation filed against him and the county. Applause from present community members followed, and since there was no quorum, no business could be conducted. The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 a.m. Commissioner Chris Barnett remained present but didn't proceed with discussion or questions from the community. Legal Counsel Wally Hicks confirmed the active litigation and didn't recommend further discussion. Commissioner Smith has been absent for the last eight meetings, but according to the Daily Courier, he announced Monday he will "reengage" in the process of filling the open seat, based on new legal guidance. However, he also said he continues to object to the process. ...Read more

OEM Encourages Safe Travels this Holiday Season

As Oregonians prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions. A series of weather systems will bring rain, mountain snow, and increasingly strong winds through Wednesday, creating potentially hazardous travel conditions across the state and may bring additional power outages. According to the National Weather Service, waves of snow showers, gusty coastal winds, and a potential for strong inland winds may impact travel, particularly over mountain passes, on the coast and along the I-5 corridor. Be prepared for any potential flooding and hazardous water conditions. Recent heavy rainfall has also ...Read more