Peter Finkle: Exciting news for Ashland’s tennis community! Our town will soon have four more outdoor tennis courts. They are expected to open this summer and will be available for public use.
Mt. Ashland Ski Area will pause operations indefinitely starting Thursday, Jan. 15, the nonprofit announced Wednesday, citing low snowpack, warm temperatures and no snowfall in the forecast. Officials say refunds will be issued for prepaid tickets, rentals and lessons, while uphill travel will remain open under seasonal rules.
Around 80 second and third-graders from three classes at Helman Elementary School in Ashland, whose mascot happens to be a dragon, took to the ice at The Rrrink in Medford Thursday morning, continuing an annual tradition at the school to introduce students to ice skating.
After a stop-and-start winter season, Mt. Ashland Ski Area reopened Wednesday morning with limited terrain and reduced lift tickets following new snowfall.
Andrew Gast, the Mt. Ashland Ski Area’s general manager, is resigning his post, the nonprofit announced Monday. During his tenure, the Mt. Ashland Association Board of Directors said in a news release, Gast has “led several significant projects and initiatives that have strengthened the organization and enhanced the guest experience.”
Mt. Ashland has tapped longtime patroller Mark Daly as its new ski patrol director. He brings more than four decades of ski patrol experience to the role, according to Mt. Ashland officials.
The likelihood of rain and the already low snowpack have resulted in the Mt. Ashland Ski Area pausing ski operations indefinitely as of Thursday, New Year’s Day. In a press release Wednesday afternoon, ski area officials said the New Year’s Day forecast calls for rain with a high near 38 degrees and south-southeast winds around 18 mph with gusts as high as 28 mph.
Recent snow, although still well below average, is expected to allow Mt. Ashland Ski Area to open on a limited basis Monday, Dec. 29. General manager Andrew Gast said plans to open the Sonnet chairlift were held back because of the lack of snow. As of Sunday, the mountain had only 16 inches.
Mt. Ashland Ski Area has postponed its opening due to a lack of snow, with officials saying at least 2½ feet is needed before slopes can be prepared. Other regional ski areas and even Crater Lake are also waiting for winter weather to arrive.
The seasonal rush for Christmas tree is on but before heading for the woods, people are urged to contact Rogue Valley Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management offices to obtain the necessary permits.
Obituary: Marilyn Dunne passed away Dec. 22, in Medford. She had a quick wit, a good sense of humor, and an optimistic outlook on life that remained with her right up to the end. She will be deeply missed.
Five local housing experts offered cautious optimism and sobering statistics during a Sunday, Jan. 25, forum at Ashland High School, where more than 80 people gathered to talk about the city’s housing accomplishments and ongoing challenges.
Obituary: William “Bill” passed away on Jan. 24, 2026 after a years-long battle with cancer and other health concerns. He was 71. Bill was deeply loved. He was a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Oregon Institute of Technology College Union.
A group of volunteers returned to Ashland’s historic Pioneer Hall this month, serving food and providing warmth for anyone in need at 3:30 p.m. Thursdays until April.
Obituary: Lisa was known as a trailblazer and a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on earth was marked by selflessness, compassion, and unwavering love for her sons and friends. A celebration of life to honor Lisa will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, in Jacksonville.
Poetry Corner: The joy our furry friends experience while out for a car ride! Perhaps it’s really the pleasure we have when taking our dogs for a ride.
(It’s free)
