Hello Mountain Timers,
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all the stories and events that shaped 2024 here on the mountain. It has been a year of change, challenge, resilience, and unforgettable moments. From the ice storm that tested our strength to the Sandy DMV reopening, to the rumor of Mount Hood moving to Japan — it was April Fools! — to new faces like the volunteer firefighters, to the heartbreaking loss of Phoenix, it’s been a year full of highs and lows.
We covered the fire at Timberline Lodge, the shocking closing of the Adventist Medical Clinic and the joyful opening of Orchid Health Clinic. We saw progress with the Highway 35 Overpass paving and reported on the tragic Camp Arrah Wanna fire. We said goodbye to Peggy Wallace, only to joyfully welcome her back to the paper later in the year, and we celebrated the new owners of The Rendezvous Grill.
The stories we’ve shared have been many and varied, and they’ve all been meaningful to the people who call this place home. With so much happening, we even had to increase the size of our paper just to make room for all the stories we wanted to cover! We hope you’ve enjoyed the hard work and dedication that goes into making our newspapers the best they can be.
As we move forward into 2025, we remain committed to covering the local stories that matter most to you. Thank you for your continued support, and we wish you all a joyful holiday season, a Happy New Year, and the very best for the year ahead!.
Sincerely,
Matthew Nelson
Your Publisher, The Mountain Times.