NORTH POWDER – The board of directors of the Anthony Lakes reported a very positive winter season for the citizen-owned ski area during their April 2013 meeting.

Speaking on behalf of the Board, Peter Johnson, general manager, said “We are very encouraged by the overall results of this ski season’s return on investment to the communities of the region.

“Three years ago the ski area started with a precarious financial situation, aging equipment and facilities, and a lack of confidence from the skiing community. Today we are operating in a positive financial situation. We have improved the equipment and lodge facilities, and are regaining our reputation as the ‘Most Friendly’ ski area,” Johnson said.

In October 2010, Baker County citizens became the owners of the Anthony Lakes ski resort located 35 miles outside of Baker City when the previous owners of the resort gifted the operation to Baker County. Baker County then formed the Baker County Development Corporation (a 501C3 non-profit) that oversees management of the resort with a five-member board of directors.

Current members include John Wilson from North Powder, Sandy Sorrels from La Grande, Rob Burgess from Baker City, and Brent Kerns and Alice Trindle from the Haines area.

The report from the board of directors included information on the many programs and events accomplished during the 2012 -2013 season.

Highlights included the statistics showing that Anthony Lakes employed more than 100 people, with a payroll of $400,000. The payroll was in addition to purchases of almost $500,000 in goods and services from the local communities.

The “Ski for the Health of It” program, in partnership with the Leo Adler Foundation, saw more than 160 youth from the Baker and North Powder schools enjoying lift, lessons, rentals and transportation every Friday.

Local businesses also recognized the positive effect of the ski area’s success with more than 300 room nights in Baker City, La Grande and North Powder motels sold as a result of the “Stay and Ski” program.

“There is no doubt that the communities of Baker City, North Powder and La Grande have seen a stabilization of their winter business due to the economic contributions of Anthony Lakes Ski Area. Add in the health effects of getting youth and families involved again in skiing and riding at the area, and it is clear that the citizens are reaping a very positive return

to the quality of life here

in Eastern Oregon,” Johnson said.

The Early Season Pass Sale runs through May 31 and are available at discounted prices at Mountain Works in La Grande, Flagstaff Sports and Kicks Sports in Baker City and online at www.anthonylakes.com.

– Submitted by Alice Trindle, Anthony Lakes board member