February 2023 Northwoods Tahoe

February 2023

Serving the Lake Tahoe Region

TAHOE

Publisher: harryJONES

Editors: allisonJONES

MelanieCano

Layout design: aaronJONES

Contributing Writer: MarkMclaughlin

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2292 Main Street, Suite 101, Genoa, NV 89411

Mailing: PO Box 1434 Genoa, NV 89411

For advertising: (530) 582-9012

Email: harry@communitymediallc.net

(775) 301-8076

Legendary Tahoe Lawman

By Mark McLaughlin

It was a sad day for the small community of Tahoe City in the spring of 1932. Citizens dressed in black were in the process of burying the town’s first constable; the revered pioneer Robert Montgomery Watson. Watson had arrived at Lake Tahoe in the 1870s to work in the logging industry, but in 1906 he was appointed Tahoe City’s first constable. Well respected as the town’s first lawman and a noted historian, Constable Watson

served his community until 1932 when he was injured after a fall from the roof while shoveling snow. He had broken some ribs, but then contracted pneumonia and died at the age of 80.

When Harry Edward Johanson first rode into town on that fateful April day, he observed a somber funeral procession and Watson’s casket being drawn across the snow-covered meadow, toward the Tahoe City Cemetery. Businesses were closed and school bells tolled. During the service, Watson’s daughter Alice described her father “as a man who never fought with man or beast, but gave of himself to improve the place where he lived, be it through planting trout in a mountain lake or marking a trail for the joy of a horseman.”

Harry Johanson was nothing like the soft and gentle Watson, the latter having settled down and raised a family with his wife. Watson also had a reputation for getting rowdy drunks home as opposed to throwing them into Tahoe

Continued on Page 4

Johanson on winter patrol. Photo courtesy of Norm Sayler and the Donner Summit Historical Society

Continued from page 3

City’s twelve-foot square, damp, windowless, concrete jail. Johanson, on the other hand, was afflicted with wanderlust and had not planned on settling in Tahoe City permanently; falling immediately in love with the Lake and the snow-covered mountains. Born in the mountains of Sweden in 1889, Johanson had demonstrated exceptional youthful athleticism by taking top honors in many skiing, swimming and long distance running competitions. He ended up winning a total of 84 medals and trophies, including a third place finish just behind Finnish runner Paavo Nurmi, who later took gold medals in the long distance events of the 1920, 1924 and 1928 Olympics.

Johanson studied architectural drafting at the University of Uppsala and after graduation, joined the Swedish Army Air Corp. In his late 30s, Harry decided to immigrate to the United States, but the quotas were full and instead he sailed for Canada. He took on a variety of jobs as he worked his way west, traveling the wilds of northern Canada to hunt, fish, and compete in sporting events like long distance swimming contests. He eventually became an officer with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. While serving three years with the “Mounties” he learned horsemanship and dog sledding, skills that would serve him well upon his arrival at Lake Tahoe.

Harry eventually received his papers to immigrate to the U.S. and he briefly took a job as a draftsman in El Centro, located in the sweltering heat of the Imperial Valley of Southern California. It didn’t take long for the Scandinavian-born, backcountry expert to realize that it was in the upper elevations of the Sierra Nevada where he would feel most at home.

Upon his arrival at Lake Tahoe, Harry took a caretaker position at a West Shore estate. Residents found the Swedish newcomer polite and well versed in the skills necessary for travel and survival in a snowbound environment. In December 1934, Johanson finally received his U.S. citizenship and two months later he took the oath as Tahoe City’s second official constable. It soon became apparent, however, that “Harry Jo” as locals liked to call him, would be a much different constable than his predecessor. While Robert Watson was known as a quiet, reserved family man, Johanson was a confirmed bachelor and soldier of fortune, with a flamboyant personality that defined him as a confident, self-made man.

Harry Jo wasted no time in taking charge of his new role as the region’s sole constable. He covered his beat of 200 square miles by horseback in summer, usually riding his favorite mount, a handsome Palomino named “Viking”. During the snowy winter months he traveled by dogsled; Harry Jo loved his dogs more than anything else in the world. One of his favorite quotes was “A man’s best friend

Constable Johanson relaxing with his dog at home. Photo courtesy of author.

Continued from page 4 is his dog, better even than his wife.” Johanson kept up to 15 dogs at a time, most of them Malamutes, to pull his sled. Despite heavy winter storms that buried the region in deep snow, Johanson was able to make his rounds to check on the year-round residents who were trying to tough it out during the harsh winter months. Blessed with incredible endurance and an expert on cross-country skis, in 1937 he circled Lake Tahoe in one day… and met only one person.

During the 1930s, Johanson and his sled dogs performed in many adventure movies. Hollywood directors filmed many of that era’s action flicks at Lake Tahoe and Big Bear in Southern California. Harry Jo often performed as a stunt double and had gigs in such epics as “Call of the Wild” (Harry stood in for Clark Gable), “White Fang,” and “Rose Marie” in which he doubled for actor Nelson Eddy. Johanson preferred the devoted companionship of his dogs over any commitment to a woman, but the handsome constable with wavy blond hair certainly enjoyed the “fairer sex.” His brief marriage to local schoolteacher Dorothy Zaharias produced a child, but Harry argued that he was not the father and she left town with the baby, vowing never to return. Afterward, Harry said, “The more I see of women, the more I love my dogs.”

Despite his well-publicized sentiments regarding marriage and women, he nevertheless flirted with many of the eligible females in Tahoe City. He always wore his dashing uniform and carried his service revolver even while drinking in the local taverns. Johanson was not

a tall man and wore large-heeled boots with lifters in the soles to raise his physical stature. Rumor has it that the beautiful actress, Jeanette MacDonald, star in “Rose Marie,” was one of his conquests.

Constable Johanson played an active role in regional law enforcement, not only capturing “crooks” (once nabbing a Half Moon Bay murder suspect in Tahoe City), but also in confiscating and busting up slot machines while shutting down local gambling operations. Johanson wore other hats too, simultaneously performing the duties of deputy sheriff, deputy tax collector and deputy coroner.

Tahoe City was a small community back then. When Harry bought his house (the current Wolfdale’s Restaurant), some locals complained about his living so far out of town. He had always wanted a black Ford Mustang patrol car, and eventually he replaced his horse with one, complete with a flashing red light on top.

After 32 years of service he resigned in 1967. More than 200 people attended his retirement dinner at Sunnyside Lodge. In 1969, when U.S. astronauts landed on the moon, Harry received a packet of stunning color photos of the event from his nephew, a vice president with Hasselblad, the Swedish camera company. The pictures were passed around and then placed on display at the Tahoe City Pharmacy. Harry Jo eventually moved to Reno and died in 1980, but was buried in Tahoe City’s Trails End Cemetery, which he renovated in the 1950s. Yep, they don’t make ‘em like Constable Johanson anymore.

Tahoe historian Mark McLaughlin is a nationally published author and professional speaker. His award-winning books are available at local bookstores or at www.thestormking.com. Check out Mark’s blog: www.tahoenuggets.com

Harry Jo’s gravesite at Trail’s End Cemetery in Tahoe City. Photo courtesy of Author.

WESTERN ART SHOW AND SALE

APRIL 27-30, 2023

ROAN COWHORSE

ORIGINAL OIL ON CANVAS TRACEY GOFF

“KINDA STUBBORN”

ORIGINAL OIL ON CANVAS

TERI SWEENEY BORDERLINE

SIGNED LITHOGRAPH MORT KÜNTSLER

EAST SIDE BARN

PHOTOGRAPHY ON CANVAS OLOF CARMEL

Get Your Home Ready for Spring

After months spent largely indoors while harsh elements battered your home’s exterior, many homeowners are throwing open the windows and embracing spring’s arrival.

Every home requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it’s living up to its aesthetic and functional best. This checklist can help you create a comfortable home setting for enjoying the warmer months.

Check gutters. During the colder months, debris can accumulate in the gutters, which can be problematic when spring rains arrive. Clogged gutters prevent water from flowing efficiently away from the roof and house. When they’re backed up, they can cause water damage in a short amount of time. Faulty guttering can also cause slow leaks that lead to damage you may not discover until major repair work is needed. Properly functioning gutters are clear of debris, flow freely and are securely attached to the home.

Inspect the roof. Your roof takes a real beating in all kinds of weather conditions. Making it a common practice to carefully inspect the roof with the change of seasons can help you identify potential problems while they’re still in early stages, before a big storm hits and major damage occurs. Some roof issues can be addressed with simple repairs you can do yourself while others may require a professional. A roofing expert can help you determine whether any trouble areas can be patched or if a more complete restoration is in order.

Replace the dryer vent. Upgrading your dryer vent is an opportunity to conserve energy and prevent flammable lint build-up in your dryers. One option for updating the exhaust system is a paintable version of InoVate’s Prime DryerWallVent. Engineered for both vent replacement and new construction, the vent includes features such as a gravity-assist damper, integrated magnets and a drip edge to provide extra protection from the elements as well as pests. A large, clean opening and lightweight angled damper promote exceptional airflow efficiency.

Service air conditioning units. Your heating and cooling system works hard to keep your indoor climate comfortable when extreme temperatures make the outdoors unbearable. That’s why it’s important to have your systems serviced by a professional, and spring is a smart time to do so before they’re hard at work throughout the warmer months. Service can correct problems and ensure everything is operating efficiently, which can lead to money savings as well.

Repair window screens. Throughout the winter, your home’s window screens can accumulate a layer of dirt and grime that isn’t just unsightly; it blows indoors when you open the windows to welcome a fresh breeze. What’s more, if your screens have rips and tears, pesky bugs and other critters can make their way into your home more easily. Cleaning and repairing your screens can make your home more secure and help protect your indoor air quality.

TRUCKEE

MAR 11, 2023

SIERRA SPEAKER SERIES

https://sierrastateparks.org/event/sierraspeaker-series/

The monthly Sierra Speaker Series connects folks to the rich cultural and natural history of the area. Join us at Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center to learn and engage! Doors open at 5 pm, and the presentation is to follow at 5:30 pm. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. Light refreshments will be available. Parking is free after 5 pm. No registration required. This is the story of two brothers, Ethan Allen and Hosea Ballou Grosh, who made a momentous discovery, encountered fate, and were dismissed as a fairytale, and our endeavor to discover new facts, correct the historical narrative, and honor the two brothers. On February 27th, 2023, the History Expedition Team (Bob Crowley, Tim Twietmeyer, Jennifer Hemmen, Elke Reimer, and Hal Hall) will begin a five-day expedition, retracing the fateful last steps of E. Allen Grosh from Silver City, NV to Last Chance, CA, 100 miles away. They will reunite the brothers through their trek and perhaps reveal along the way the rightful claim of the Grosh Brothers to the discovery of the world’s largest concentration of silver.

MAR 26, 2023

SIERRA SKOGSLOPPET XC FUN SKI RACE

https://www.tahoedonner.com/events/

This fun race is organized by Truckee High and Alder Creek Middle School cross country ski teams as a fundraiser. 100% of proceeds go to help support the teams. Entering a fun race is a great way to challenge yourself and to be in to win some great swag! Participants can choose from 15km, 7.5km or 3km races. More details on the courses and how to register coming soon. Races are for all ages and abilities. Participants will receive a pancake brunch and be entered into a raffle drawing for some great prizes donated by friends, families and businesses that support the school teams.

APR 22-23, 2023

WFA COURSE

https://medtreksinternational.com/trips/ tahoe-wilderness-first-aid-certification-course/

Our Wilderness First Aid course is designed to provide an individual with an introduction to wilderness medicine and the basic skills to treat the most common injuries and illnesses encountered in the wilderness. This program is appropriate for entry level professional guides and other non-medical people who want some basic understanding of wilderness medicine. This WFA course is 2 days, equaling approximately 20 hours of contact time. After taking this course you will be familiar with some of the most common backcountry problems. Upon course completion, students will earn both the WFA and CPR/BLS plus AED certifications, which are valid for two years.

NORTH LAKE TAHOE

MAR 4, 2023

34TH ANNUAL POLAR BEAR SWIM AT GARWOODS GRILL & PIER

https://www.garwoods.com

34th Annual Polar Bear Swim at Gar Woods Grill & Pier! Sign up online or day of event. Visit www.garwoods.com or call 530.546.3366 for more info. Cash prizes. Raffle after swim along with complimentary food! Sign ups 11:30-1:30 PM / Race at 2:30 PM.

MAR 5, 2023

FREE SKI DAY AT SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK

https://sierrastateparks.org/event/ free-ski-day-at-sugar-pine-point-state-park/

The 4th annual Free Ski Day at Sugar Pine Point State Park returns! This activity-packed day is sponsored by Sierra State Parks Foundation. On the campground side of Sugar Pine Point State Park (not lakeside), there are groomed trails perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. On March 5th from 10 – 2 pm, learn how to do both with a Beginner XC Ski and Snowshoe Clinic, learn about the park’s Olympic History with tours at 11 am and 1 pm, and observe a biathlon equipment demonstration done every half hour!

MARCH TO MAY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Click or tap on any event to go to the event’s website. The information in the calendar is up to date as of time of publishing. Please verify details of events as changes can occur.

MAR 11, 2023

2023 KINGS BEACH SNOWFEST!

https://northtahoebusiness.org/kings-beachsnowfest-parade/

The annual Kings Beach SnowFest Parade will take place on Saturday, March 11, 2023 from 11:30 am-12:30 pm in downtown Kings Beach. This fun-filled event brings over 1,800 spectators and features entries from over 30 local community organizations and businesses, featuring costumes, floats, and live music. Everyone is encouraged to spend the day in Kings Beach for SnowFest activities and events. The small town, big time parade brings smiles and joy as it travels east on Highway 28 along the beautiful north shore of Lake Tahoe. The parade will start at Secline Street and end at Coon Street. The announcing stand and judges table will be next to the King Building near the Bear Street Roundabout.

MAR 31 - APR 2, 2023

WINTERWONDERGRASS PALISADES TAHOE

https://www.palisadestahoe.com/events-andactivities/events-calendar/winterwondergrass-tahoe

In majestic Lake Tahoe for the 7th year of WinterWonderGrass California! The festival will take place March 31-April 2nd, 2023, at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley. General, VIP, and Lodging on sale now at winterwondergrass.com. Mark your calendars (and prep your lift tickets) for the free Thursday Kickoff Show, at the base of Palisades Ski Resort in the Plaza, followed by a weekend of music, brews, and mountains with bluegrass and americana favorites. Inside the venue, you will find an open-air outdoor mainstage, three side stages (which are heated and covered), plus daily beer, whiskey, and spiked seltzer complimentary tastings for those 21 and over, from 3-5 pm. others.

APR 1, 2023

DUMMY DOWNHILL AT DIAMOND PEAK

https://www.diamondpeak.com/event

Join us for the 21st annual Dummy Downhill on Saturday, April 1, 2023. Participants build a dummy on skis or snowboards that gets launched off of a big jump, while spectators get to watch as unique characters fly down the hill or crash hard. This is Diamond Peak’s signature spring event, the biggest party of the year, and the perfect way to celebrate April Fool’s Day. Even non-skiers will want to come watch the madness! A panel of celebrity judges (and the public) will evaluate all Dummies on the snow by the Base Lodge, followed by the dummy launch and an awards ceremony. Prizes and certificates are awarded for creativity, best crash, furthest distance, and more. Dummies must be at the Base Lodge by 10:00 a.m. to check in and then be judged on creativity. Dummies cannot be live, have pyrotechnics and must weigh less than 75 pounds. Dummies and songs must be family-friendly. Team captains should be present to help load the dummies after they have been judged and unload at the top of the jump. The jumping will be followed by an award ceremony on the Base Lodge Deck.

ANNUAL SNOWSHOE THOMPSON SKI & SNOWSHOE CELEBRATION

http://www.laketahoemuseum.org/events.html

The 21st Annual Snowshoe Thompson Ski & Snowshoe Celebration returns once again to the Sierra on Saturday, March 5, 2023, 1:00 – 4:00 pm. at the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum Complex located at 3058 Lake Tahoe Blvd.

MAR 23, 2023

UC DAVIS TAHOE SCIENCE LECTURE SERIES

http://tahoe.ucdavis.edu/events/

Attraction and Relationships

Paul Eastwick’s research investigates how people initiate romantic relationships and the psychological mechanisms that help romantic partners to remain committed and attached.

APR 9, 2023

HEAVENLY VILLAGE EASTER EGG HUNT

https://theshopsatheavenly.com/

The Shops at Heavenly Village are holding an Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday, April 9, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. for children ages 12 and under. Over 15,000 candy and toyfilled eggs will be hidden including $1,000 in cash prize eggs. Select eggs contain offerings from shops at the Heavenly Village Shop. The cost is $5 per child and a limited number of tickets are available. Check back for link to tickets. All proceeds will be given to a local charity. The hunt will be all outdoors between Fire and Ice and Gunbarrel Tavern in the Heavenly Village. There are three hunt categories: Age groups: 5-Under, 6-8, 9-12. The Easter Bunny will be on-site for a meet and greet. There is also a Build a Bunny spot for just $15 (quantities are limited).

APR

LAKE TAHOE WEDDING EXPO AT SOUTH OF NORTH BREWING COMPANY

https://www.facebook.com/ events/527243169290750

Join us and Tahoe Basin Events as we provide you an experiential wedding day expo at South of North Brewing Company Lake Tahoe. Come celebrate, visualize, and plan your special day with our: Local Vendors, Champagne Deck, Gourmet Bites, Silent Disco, Live Wedding Band, Mock Ceremony Inspo, Gorgeous Floral, Trunk Shows, and much more!

MAR 11, 2023

ROCKY MOUNTAIN OYSTER FRY

https://visitvirginiacitynv.com/event-directory

Virginia City takes the phrase, “have a ball” to the next level with the 32nd annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry. This St. Patrick’s Day celebration in historic Virginia City unites daring revelers for a wild and outlandish festival featuring tasty testes, a Ballbreaker Saloon Crawl, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, costume contests and more.

MAR 12, 2023

ANNUAL LEPRECHAUN RACE

5K RUN/WALK

https://race178.com/leprechaunrace/

Can you beat our leprechaun? Run in Reno’s vibrant and historic neighborhoods, Midtown and the Wells Avenue District, at the Annual Leprechaun Race. The race is a fun 5k run/walk that everyone can enjoy. The relatively flat course starts and ends in front of the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum. Runners or walkers of all abilities can easily participate in this fun run. If you beat the official leprechaun across the finish line, you get a special prize! A portion of the race proceeds benefit the Discovery Museum. Be sure to wear a green outfit or create a St. Patrick’s Day costume and join the fun.

VIRGINIA CITY GRAND PRIX

https://vcgp.com/

The historic streets of Virginia City are transformed into a motorcycle arena as nearly a thousand off-road bikes gather for this competitive race. Races begin on C Street so spectators can get an up-close and personal view of this high-speed race before they zoom on to the off-road portions of the race. The annual two-day event is the ultimate Comstock battle of racer verses the rough terrain.

CA FOOTHILLS

APR 22-23, 2023

PASSPORT TO THE GREAT OUT THERE

https://www.cellarpass.com/events/ 2023-passport-to-the-great-out-there-9489

MAR 3, 2023

TAHOE ADVENTURE FILM FESTIVAL

https://www.cvartscouncil.com/

After a ten-year absence, the Carson Valley Arts Council is pleased to present the Tahoe Adventure Film Festival (TAFF) 2023. The adventure film will be shown at the CVIC Hall, 1602 Esmeralda in Minden, at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 3, 2023. This is not your typical stuffy film festival. This fun, high-energy evening will fuel your passion for action and ignite your senses for adventure. Highlighted are the best adventure sports films of the year, showcasing the biggest talent that the action sports world can offer. There will also be a fundraiser for the Carson Valley Arts Council, and you can show your support by participating in their Silent Auction.

APR 28-30, 2023

GENOA WESTERN HERITAGE

DAYS

https://visitcarsonvalley.org/

saddle-genoa-western-heritage-celebration-2/

Genoa Western Heritage Days is a celebration of culture and community and showcases the area’s rich heritage.

MORE INFORMATION ON PAGE 13

Explore the unrivaled beauty of El Dorado County one sip at a time with a Passport to THE GREAT OUT THERE. Over 20 wineries will share their innovative spirit by providing incredible food and wine pairings and engaging you in an experience that captures the essence of their unique story. Whether it’s live music, art demonstrations, historical tours, or winemaking insights, your journey to THE GREAT OUT THERE will create treasured memories of wine, food, and fun. Discover the back roads, hidden gems, secret experiences, and surprises that make this unexplored wine region event a true adventure. Embrace the unknown and prepare to see a side of winemaking, terroir, and creative expression you wouldn’t expect in wine country. El Dorado wineries draw from more than just good winemaking skills-experience the daring spirit, creative freedom, inspiring Sierra landscape, dynamic agriculture, and the character-rich true-grit culture of this cult-classic mountain wine region.

MAY 12-14, 2023

THE GOLDEN ROAD GATHERING

https://goldenroadgathering.com/

A multi-day outdoor music gathering brought to you by your friends at Marco’s Cafe, Sacred Roots, and the creators of Hangtown Halloween Ball. This three-day event will feature a wide range of headliners, bands, and can’t-miss music.

Travel Trends Break from Routine in 2023

Travel in 2023 will be about saying “no” to normal, breaking routines and searching for experiences without compromises. Whether it’s flying to those once-in-alifetime events or hosting group celebrations at a vacation rental home, travelers are no longer adapting to the next new normal, but creating their own status quo altogether.

“We see a detailed and robust picture of travel into 2023,” Expedia Brands President Jon Gieselman said. “We’re seeing a surge in trips to culture capitals, a new wave of interest in wellness retreats and a spike in demand for outdoor destinations beyond just beaches and mountains. It’s not a new normal so much as people branching out to unexpected trends in what we’re calling the ‘no normal.’”

A close look at these trends suggests there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to travel in 2023. Insights sourced from the company’s first-party data, and from custom research of thousands of travelers and industry professionals across 17 countries, show food, abundant space and unconventional destinations are influencing travel choices.

Foodie-Menities

Kitchen credentials are a must with travelers looking to plate up at their own convenience in a private vacation home. Outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens and air fryers are the top three foodie-menities travelers crave. Additionally, nearly half of U.S. travelers (43%) use cooking to cut down on costs.

Travelers are looking for amenities in their vacation rentals rather than focusing on location. In fact, more than half (57%) of travelers would rather book a unique vacation home to be with their people in a lesser-known destination than a less interesting, less equipped vacation home in a popular area.

Cowboy-Cations

Rustic getaways are on the rise as travelers crave private vacation homes with abundant space and exhilarating views. Cue the cowboy-cation, offering an intimate escape in the rugged wilderness. Demand for homes in western destinations increased by more than 30% from September 2021-August 2022. Plus, 42% of U.S. travelers find inspiration in outdoorsy destinations and landscapes that include loglined cabins, flickering fires and sweeping vistas.

Travelers can live out their western fantasies by booking a luxurious lodge, ranch retreat or farmhouse that fits the whole crew. Destinations across Montana, Colorado and other western states spring to mind, but the cowboy-cation is not confined to the U.S. For a home on the range in Europe, travelers are booking converted barns and farmhouses in Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom. Thrill-seekers can also embrace their inner cowboy in Australia, where farmhouses in the outback overlook acres of wineries and wild brush.

Hidden Gems

Travelers are exploring unassuming locales and new places. Top hidden gems in the U.S. have one thing in common: beautiful lakes where travelers can take in tranquil views. Demand for private vacation homes in these unconventional destinations has increased by 30% or more since September 2021:

• Nampa, Idaho

• Greensboro, North Carolina

• Layton, Utah

• Irmo, South Carolina

• Oneonta, New York

• Hampton, Virginia

• Bristol, Rhode Island

• Spokane, Washington

• Las Cruces, New Mexico

• Missoula, Montana

Easter Dip Goodness

Easter is about coming together with loved ones, enjoying beautiful spring weather and eating your family’s favorite foods. The kids will be playing, adults will be chatting and all will be patiently waiting for the table to be set.

If you’re visiting and making memories with family and friends you haven’t seen in a while, there are few things better than diving into a marvelous Easter spread.

While eyeing the table, you notice all the colors popping off the dishes. Fruits and veggies make the feast come to life, but a warm Easter dip paired with rolls for dipping is a perfect way to start the festivities.

These Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip are as eye-catching as they are delicious. Not only will the kids love its shape, but the layers of taste will wow your Easter crowd.

To make this recipe, start by combining a 16-ounce package of frozen spinach, cream cheese and garlic in a skillet. Once heated, add mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder and Italian seasoning.

Add in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses then stir until combined.

Next, roll out crescent rolls. Stretch the dough then cut into 24 rolls.

Form the bunny shape and scoop your spinach dip mixture into the center of the bunny and its ears. Sprinkle the spinach dip with mozzarella cheese before baking at 375 F for 18 minutes.

This dish is made for a crowd, served warm and full of cheesy goodness. You can watch as your family dips into the spinach and one-by-one, before you know it, the rolls will have disappeared and the dip will be devoured.

Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip

Serves: 24

16 ounces frozen spinach, thawed

8 ounces cream cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 2 crescent roll tubes (8 ounces each)

Heat oven to 375 F.

In skillet, over medium heat, cook spinach, cream cheese and garlic

3-4 minutes until cream cheese is melted. Stir in mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper and Italian seasoning. Stir in Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Cook until cheese is melted. Keep skillet on burner over low heat.

Remove dough from tubes. Leaving dough intact, roll and stretch into 18-inch ropes. Cut each rope into 12 pieces for 24 total.

On baking sheet with parchment paper, form bunny head by placing one piece of dough in middle then surrounding it with six more pieces. Use 13 pieces to form round body. Use remaining pieces to form ears on top of head.

Scoop hot spinach dip into center. Spoon small portions on each ear. Sprinkle ears and belly with remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake 18 minutes, or until crescent dough is golden brown and thoroughly cooked.