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Ski lift Mertenberg shuts down operations

Skiing season has yet to commence, yet the ski lift in Mertenberg has met its end, with the operators choosing to cease operations. It's not just climate change that's responsible for this turn of events.

Ski Lift Mertenberg Shuts Down Operation
Ski Lift Mertenberg Shuts Down Operation

Ski lift Mertenberg shuts down operations

In the picturesque town of Mertenberg near Schnaittenbach, a winter sports institution has closed its doors, marking the end of an era for local skiers and snowboarders. The ski lift, a beloved local attraction, has been discontinued primarily because of the operators' financial and operational challenges.

For the past 50 years, the Mertenberg ski lift was run by three families, with only Stefan Walter's father Karl still among the original pioneers. However, the rise of larger and better-equipped ski resorts elsewhere, combined with the unpredictable and low snow conditions in the area, made it impractical to continue operating the small local ski lift.

The terrain and climate in Mertenberg did not guarantee a reliable ski season each year, making it hard to justify the investment and ongoing expenses. Consequently, the lift was shut down as the costs outweighed the benefits and demand declined.

Meanwhile, the operators of the Zwergerl lift in Mertenberg, another winter sports institution, have also closed their business, leaving a void in the local winter sports scene.

Elsewhere, the Skiclub Monte Kaolino (SCMK) Hirschau is preparing for the cross-country season, with four brand-new snow cannons ready at the trails under the Rotbühl sender. The German championship in cross-country skiing is scheduled for January 12 and 13, 2019, at the Rotbühl.

In a separate development, a 73-year-old man from Schwandorf is suspected of exposing himself and masturbating in front of a family in Fronberg. Authorities are also intervening in a case involving a man from the municipality of Eslarn, who is accused of abusing his dog.

On the transportation front, the B 299 between Mitterteich and Waldsassen has been closed since August 1st, causing frustration, doubts, and fines for commuters and travellers.

In more personal news, Heiko G. from Amberg has a rare condition that causes him to frequently faint. A Weidener is seeking to change his name due to harassment, but the process is complex. Stefan Walter, a member of the band "Wöidarawöll", notes that consecutive weeks of winter have become rare in the past ten years.

These are just a few of the stories making headlines in the region. As always, stay tuned for more updates.

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