Tahoe Magazine

GOOD LIBATIONS: THESE WATERING HOLES MAKE SURE YOUR WINTER COCKTAIL FIX IS HANDLED

M A G A Z I N E

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ADVENTURE

awaits This winter, the opportunities to have fun at Lake Tahoe are truly endless

SIERRA CINEMA The Tahoe-Truckee region has been the setting for 100 years of memorable Hollywood films

SOME LIKE IT HOT Regional hot springs provide a quick getaway for visitors looking to soak the day’s fun away

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1. Incline Village Beach and Buoy $6,295,000 Vince Scott 775.240.0241

2. 10+ Acre Smith Creek Ranch $1,595,000 Carol Murray 530.249.2833

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3. Panoramic Incline Village Lake Views $1,299,000 Jeffrey Corman 775.339.1144

Incline Village 775.832.4900

Squaw Valley 530.581.1800

Tahoe City Lakeside 530.583.4004

Downtown Truckee 530.587.3500

South Lake Tahoe 530.494.7600

Tahoe City Gallery 530.282.1436

Tahoe Donner 530.587.3505

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5. 40 Acre Woodlands at Tahoe Estate 6. Remodeled Westshore Tahoe Retreat $2,600,000 $795,000 Nathan Reidel 530.448.9981 Al Colhoun 530.913.0807 Greg Boyle 530.448.3843

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Winter &

Wonder

GO HAND IN HAND AT LAKE TAHOE WELCOME TO WINTER AT LAKE TAHOE AND TRUCKEE! For anyone following the news or social media feeds, you’re no stranger to the fact this thing called “winter” hasn’t been too nice to us in recent years when it’s come to snowfall. Words and phrases like “drought” and “four straight mild winters” and “climate change and the future of Lake Tahoe” are part of the discussion.

If anything, we are more than due, and all of us who cherish the Tahoe-Truckee region are looking forward to the big one this ski season — feet upon feet of snow in the middle of the week, in time for the roads to clear for the weekend warriors to come up, have fun and be an important part to our recreation-based way of life here in the Sierra Nevada.

The current hullaballoo dominating the headlines is the “Godzilla El Niño,” and what could turn out to be an unprecedented winter out West — or, unfortunately for our ski resorts (but great for the drought), a winter that’s full of rain, but little skiable snow.

While it remains to be seen what exactly will happen (any meteorologist will tell you the only thing that’s certain about the forecast is that it has uncertain impacts) it’s no secret a lot of hope is being wagered on a wonderful winter season for 2015-16.

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However, anyone who knows anything about running a profitable business or a successful organization or nonprofit will tell you the following: “Hope is not a strategy.” So with that in mind, here’s the key thing for us all to understand: Weather be damned, the list of all the wonderful things Tahoe-Truckee has to offer is truly endless, and if you’re willing to explore, you’ll come away with one of the best experiences in your life.

We offer the best views in the world. We have a nightlife like no other, highlighted by world-class musical acts and a historyrich casino vibe. We have hundreds of restaurants ready to serve you a diverse dining experience. And from skiing to snowshoeing to spring hiking to family sledding outings to brisk morning paddleboard sessions on Lake Tahoe to adventurous sight-seeing opportunities at Donner Summit — and everywhere and everything in between — we really do boast America’s greatest outdoor playground, no matter the season.

Welcome to winter? Sure. But don’t forget — welcome to wonder, too.

Kevin MacMillan is managing editor and co-general manager of Tahoe Magazine and the Sierra Sun and North Lake Tahoe Bonanza newspapers. He’s a native of Bad Axe, Michigan, so finding fun things to do in the winter comes as second nature to him. Have feedback for Tahoe Magazine? Give him a shout on Twitter @Kevin1MacMillan, or email him at kmacmillan@sierrasun.com.

ON THE COVER PHOTO: DYLAN SILVER / DYLAN SILVER MEDIA

Though last winter was below average for snow, skiers and snowboarders still managed to pick off powdery pockets in the backcountry. South Lake Tahoe resident Jackson Minton skins along the ridge toward Round Top in December 2014. About 20 miles south of Lake Tahoe, the peak stands at 10,381 feet, one of the highest in the area. The terrain ranges from mellow slopes to narrow chutes and couloirs.

PHOTO: XXXXXX

! s t i a w A e r u t Adven Camp Richardson Historic Resort & Marina Just minutes from Emerald Bay is a year-round oasis waiting to be explored. Enjoy this historic location with lodging, lakeside dining, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sports gear rentals, and more.

800.544.1801

The Beacon Bar & Grill

Home of the Rum Runner & Best Beer Selection in Tahoe

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For Reservations 530.541.0630 or visit BeaconTahoe.com

CampRichardson.com 1900 Jameson Beach Rd., South Lake Tahoe Camp Richardson is operated under Special Use Permit with the U.S. Forest Service, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.

TAHOE MAGAZINE

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Incline Creek Estates

Incline Village’s Premier Gated Community

Incline Creek Estates is a private, gated community situated on 13 pristine acres in the heart of Incline Village. The community features 57 new single-family home sites within walking distance of downtown.

All exterior home maintenance, landscaping and snow removal is managed by our property management team so that your time at Lake Tahoe can be spent relaxing and enjoying all of the recreation opportunities available right outside your front door.

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ONLY 5 HOMES REMAINING! CONTACT TERRY MOORE 775.691.9123

MOVE FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE

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At Sierra Nevada Properties we understand that it’s not just about selling or buying your home, it’s about helping you reach your goals. Whether you’re buying or selling, our experienced agents are here to make the process as seamless as possible. With 35 years of experience, 70 agents and 3 regional offices, we’re dedicated to providing you with outstanding customer service.

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F E AT U R E S 52 56 RESIDENTIAL SALES | LUXURY HOMES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 110 Country Club Dr. | Incline Village, NV 6990 South McCarran Blvd. | Reno, NV 150 E. Main St. | Fernley, NV SNPHomes.com | 8

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T R AV I S GANONG

JAMIE ANDERSON

FILM HISTORY

North Lake Tahoe skier discusses his craft

South Shore Olympian pushes limits of snowboarding

A century of movie-making around Lake Tahoe

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RE SOR T AT T HE VIL L AG E SOUTH L AKE TAHOE

RE SOR T AT T HE VIL L AG E

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of recreation and relaxation.

D E PA R T M E N T S

THE BEACH RETREAT offers 262 rooms, two restaurants, unending views and a staff that cares about your experience first. On seven acres right on the Lake, enjoy seasonal activities, a marina, a 1,000 ft. Pier, fire-pits, and live music. The perfect spot for weddings, small or large meetings, celebrations or just to get away and lose yourself at the Lake.

I N S I D E TA H O E

For weddings, meetings, special events or celebrations, contact Lori Cramer at lcramer@tahoebeachretreat.com or call 530.545.4328

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family fun beginner ski tips gear guides

The perfect R E Sbalance O R T S of recreation 30 downhill and relaxation.

3411 Lake Tahoe Blvd. I South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 tahoebeachretreat.com I 800.972.8558

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what's new ski passes cross country

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donner museum day trips hot springs day spas

E N T E RTA I N M E N T / DINING 82 84 86 89

winter cocktails coffee talk saloon history snowglobe music festival

IN EVERY ISSUE 97 calendar

7 Diamonds 7 Fo r A l l M a n k in d A l b e r t o M a ka li Brighton Eil e e n Fis h e r E M U A u s t ra li a J B ra n d G il li a n J u liu s I s a b e l l a Fi o re Jag Jeans J o e’s J e a n s J ui c y C o u t u re L i q ui d M e t a l M a ui J im M i c h a e l Ko r s M Z Wa l l a c e N Y DJ Ro c k Re v i va l Sky Sy m p li To m my B a h a m a Tr u e Re li gi o n UGG Boots Virgin s, S ain t s & Angels Vo c a l

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WOM E N ’ S, M E N ’ S & CH I L DR E N ’ S DIS T I NC T CL O T H I NG

Excellence delivering

in luxury real estate

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M A N AG I N G ED I TO R Kevin MacMillan CO N T RI B U T I N G ED I TO R Caitlin Row DESIGN TEA M M ANAGER Afton Pospisilova ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Darin Bliss Malisa Samsel

Gayle Blair 800-727-9677 broker & co-owner Nicole Bagley-Blair 530-581-1400

Jamison H. Blair 530-277-8654 broker & co-owner

Geri Eisenberg 530-320-4374

Nicholas Martin 530-214-9003

CO N T RI B U T I N G PH OTO G R A PH ERS Jack Affleck Adam Jensen Grant Barta Billy Jesberg Chris Bartkowski Grant Kaye Kyle Beckmann Owaki-Kulla Matt Chappell Margaret Moran Rachid Dahnoun Matt Palmer Jeff Engerbretson Corey Rich Tripp Fay Scott Sady Mitchell Gunn Emily Stott Doug Haney Brian Walker Sylas Wright

Linda H. Jones 530-583-1566 x44

Kim Heslin 530-583-1566 x45

Annette Paiser 530-448-5133

Marynell Hartnett 530-525-5244 x14

Dick Genest 530-906-4575

Michelle O'Brien 530-563-6750

Leslie Biedermann 530-448-1561

Brandon Walsh 530-412-4647

Matt Smith 530-414-9177

L A K E TA H O E/C M N M GENER AL M ANAGER Jim Morgan T A H O E D A I LY T R I B U N E / L A K E TA H O E AC T I O N P U B L I S H E R Natasha Schue S I E R R A S U N/N O R T H L A K E TA H O E BONANZ A CO - GENER AL M ANAGER Ben Rogers ADVERTISIN G EXECUTIVES Michelle Caruso Michelle Geary Peggy Cocores Gayla Georgieva Stacy Collins Susan Kokenge Carolan LaCroix

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Tahoe City 845 North Lake Blvd. Tahoe City, CA 530.583.1566

Tahoe Magazine is a product of the Tahoe Daily Tribune, Sierra Sun and North Lake Tahoe Bonanza newspapers, and Lake Tahoe Action magazine. All content is copyrighted, November 2015. Tahoe Magazine strives for accuracy and is not responsible if event details change after publication. Unless otherwise indicated, all photography in this magazine is property of Swift Communications, the parent company of Colorado Mountain News Media and Tahoe Magazine.

Considering a Home at Lake Tahoe?

PHOTO BY: JOY STROTZ

Incline Village residents enjoy year-round amenities: Diamond Peak Ski Resort ● Championship & Mountain Golf Courses ● Tennis Center Recreation Center & Fitness Club ● Boat Ramp ● 3 Gated Community Beaches • Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails

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PHOTO: XXXXXX

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CONTRIBUTORS Marynell Hartnett Experience! Education! Enthusiasm!

Trust Marynell to sell or find your Tahoe/Truckee, CA or NV land, condo, cabin or lakefront estate.

Real Estate Broker in both California and Nevada specializing in lakeside properties and golf course communities.

2015 President, Tahoe Sierra Board of Realtors

530.913.0903 maryhartnett01@yahoo.com TahoeWestShore.com CA Lic #00913167 NV Lic #0031745

WINTER WATER CONSERVATION After several years of severe drought in our region, we must do all we can to protect our water supply.

You can help by using water wisely every day.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips

Limit showers to five minutes or less Turn off the water when brushing teeth, washing hands or shaving ■ At home or while staying a hotel, reuse your towels ■ If you notice a leaking fixture in a hotel or vacation home, inform the owner so they can have it repaired ■ ■

Small changes can make a big difference.

We all use water, and we are all responsible for it.

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Sebastian Foltz is an outdoor writer/ photographer who recently joined the staff at the Tahoe Daily Tribune. The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, native came to the Tahoe Basin after working for a newspaper in Breckenridge, Colorado, and freelancing in Oregon. Since coming to Tahoe he's been out exploring on his mountain bike and is eager to get in the backcountry this coming winter.

Margaret Moran is a Jill-of-all-trades reporter/ photgrapher with the Sierra Sun and North Lake Tahoe Bonanza newspapers, serving Truckee and communities along the Lake Tahoe's North Shore, including Incline Village, Kings Beach and Tahoe City.

When not covering the news, she enjoys hiking local trails, reading and drinking lots of coffee. You may reach her at mmoran@sierrasun.com.

Adam Jensen is a native of Modesto, California, he has lived in the Sierra Nevada for the past decade. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, he's taken his winter pursuits into the strapless realm, tackling the nascent sport of snowskating. He is the editor of Lake Tahoe Action, which focuses on entertainment and recreation at the South Shore of Lake Tahoe.

Dylan Silver is a freelance writer and photographer based in South Lake Tahoe. He’s lived in the area for more than 10 years, spending part of his childhood in nearby Gardnerville, Nev. His favorite Tahoe activities are snowboarding, stand-up paddling, backpacking and enjoying the locals’ discount at South Shore buffets. More of Dylan’s work can be found on his website, dylansilver.com, or through his Instragram handle, @dylan_silver. You may reach him at dylanmsilver@gmail.com.

Sylas Wright is the sports editor at the Sierra Sun and North Lake Tahoe Bonanza newspapers.

He’s won several writing and photography awards in both the Nevada Press Association and California Newspaper Publisher Association contests.

He moved to Truckee in 2005, after growing up in the central Sierra Nevada near Shaver Lake.

He enjoys a variety of outdoor sports and keeping tabs on the Truckee/Tahoe area's worldclass athletes. You may reach him at swright@sierrasun.com.

Tim Hauserman is a freelance writer based in Tahoe City who has written more than 100 articles about a wide range of topics. He wrote the official guidebook to the Tahoe Rim Trail, as well as “Monsters in the Woods: Backpacking with Children” and the recently released “Gertrude’s Tahoe Adventures in Time.” You may reach him at writeonrex@yahoo.com.

Mark McLaughlin is a Tahoe historian and awardwinning, nationally published author and professional speaker with six books and more than 700 articles in print. He has appeared on CNN, The History Channel, The Weather Channel, and participated in many documentaries. Mark lives in Carnelian Bay and is currently working with The Weather Channel on a new Donner Party documentary. You may reach him at mark@thestormking.com.

Anthony Gentile is the sports editor at the Tahoe Daily Tribune in South Lake Tahoe. This winter is the San Diego native's second at Lake Tahoe and he plans to stay more upright on his snowboard during the colder months. You may reach him at agentile@tahoedailytribune.com.

Give them Memories They’ll Cherish Forever

Schaffer’s Mill is a golf, lake and ski community in North Lake Tahoe, providing the perfect backdrop for families to create a lifetime of memories. Choose from a selection of modern mountain lodges and elegant cabins, or custom-design your dream home in Alpine Ridge, our new neighborhood of premier home sites with dramatic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Our best homesites are available now and for a limited time, each site includes a membership into the Schaffer’s Mill Club.

Call us today at (888) 519-2480 for more information or to arrange a private tour of our furnished models.

SchaffersMill.com Home sites from the $300’s. Mountain Lodges from $1.2M. Custom Homes for $1.4M. Access to and use of recreational amenities are not included in the purchase of homesites and require separate club membership. The information provided in this advertisement is strictly for informational purposes and shall not be construed as an offer in California or any other jurisdictions that prior registration or other advance qualification of real property is required. This is not an offer to sell property to, or a solicitation of offers from any state that requires prior registration or qualification of real estate. Obtain the Property Report or its equivalent required by Federal and State law and read it before signing anything. No Federal or State Agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property.

PHOTO: XXXXXX

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FAMILY FUN Winter wonderland activities await — and tubing, skiing and festivals are just the tip of the iceberg

BY JACK BARNWELL SNOWBALL FIGHTS, SNOW TUBE RIDES AND THE SOUND OF CHILDREN LAUGHING all await families and friends as the ski season hits Lake Tahoe. Several resorts already have plans and events set up for the merry crowds, from skiing to ski lessons.

PHOTO: SQUAW VALLEY ALPINE MEADOWS

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BELOW ARE OUR PICKS FOR FAMILY FUN ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH SHORES OF LAKE TAHOE THIS WINTER:

HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT, SOUTH LAKE TAHOE ONLINE: skiheavenly.com As one of South Lake Tahoe's ski resorts turns 60 this year, it continues its tradition of fun, including ski lessons and tubing for adults and children at Adventure Peak.

Take the Gondola at Heavenly Village for a 2.4-mile trip and get a great view of the lake during the ride up.

Heavenly's Tubing Hill offers four lanes of 500-foot-long fun, with a 65-foot vertical drop for people who want to tackle tubing. People must be taller than 42 inches tall.

Heavenly offers skiing lessons for children, whether those training to be future Olympians or just wanting to have a fun time.

Heavenly kicks off its opening season with its "Winter Ignite" to celebrate 60 years from Dec. 4-12. The two-week celebration includes onmountain activities such as pop-up DJ Cat parties and Unbuckle aprĂŠs kick-off parties, as well as off-

mountain concerts at the casinos and a free headliner concert in Heavenly Village on December 12.

Heavenly Holidays, from Dec. 19-31, transforms Heavenly Village into a holiday winter wonderland

with lights, decorations, magicians, jugglers, ice sculpting, a Ripperoo Parade and more. It culminates on New Year's Eve, with a live band and a brightly lit gondola that descends over the crowd.

TART Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit

TART Public Bus and Truckee Transit North Tahoe Ski Shuttle offering FREE transfers to ski resorts

One Brand. One Service.

Night Rider Service FREE between 6pm and 2am

NORTH LAKE TAHOE EXPRESS Daily airport shuttle between Reno and Truckee/North Lake Tahoe Photos: Erik Bergen

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PHOTO: JACK AFFLECK / VAIL RESORTS

THE TREEHOUSE

A Magical Place for Children of All Ages Unique Children’s Clothing for Boys & Girls

SQUAW VALLEY — ALPINE MEADOWS, OLYMPIC VALLEY ONLINE: squawalpine.com Squaw Valley - Alpine Meadows in Olympic Valley has plenty to offer the family, including aerial tram rides, ice skating, snow tubing, mini snowmobiling, pools and hot tubs, snowshoeing, dog sledding, crosscountry skiing, a climbing wall and more.

Tahoe Fun Facts Map introduces kids to an educational experience that includes locations of the mountain. Facts found on signs in key locations allow families to explore the mountain and learn about snow, Lake Tahoe, animals, trees of the region, and much more.

New terrain park features at Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley include a small bordercross course with gently banked turns, small rollers and jumps.

Squaw Valley - Alpine Meadows continues to offer skiing lessons, snow play and tubing activities. Snow tubing is located at the SnoVentures Activity Zone, which also offers kids a chance to use mini-snowmobiles.

Don't forget to lace up the ice skates and hit the ice at the Olympic Ice Pavilion on Squaw's upper mountain.

From February 18-21, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows comes alive with a weeklong kids extravaganza. Kid-O-Rama offers non-stop fun for kids of all ages, including activities like night-tubing, mini-snowmobiling, and climbing.

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE, TWIN BRIDGES (NEAR SOUTH SHORE)

Newborn - #16 Dancewear & Dress-up Books • Dolls • Educational Toys Seasonal Necessities Open 7 Days a Week

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ONLINE: sierraattahoe.com Sierra-at-Tahoe comes packed with family options, with no shortage of fun for kids and adults.

Blizzard Mountain offers snow play and tubing activities for children. The tubing area, shaped like a giant doughnut, offers a gentle ride.

Sierra Resort's SMART TERRAIN© Program also offers beginners an opportunity to learn the sport of skiing or snowboarding in an environment best suited for learning and improving skills.

Burton Progression Park on Easy Street offers a low-to-the-ground option for freestylers to get comfortable with the feel of jumps, jibs, and rollers. above left: Kids play at Squaw Valley's Kid'O'Rama event, which runs from Feb. 18-21, 2016. above right: A student learns to ski at Sierraat-Tahoe's Wild Mountain Ski and Snowboard Star Warsthemed adventure zone. left: Mini-snowmobiling has its appeal for kids and adults at Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows.

PHOTOS: SQUAW VALLEY ALPINE MEADOWS; ABOVE RIGHT PHOTO: SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

tahoe by

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Closed Sunday & Monday By Appointment Only Winter Hours: 11am - 5pm Contact Elizabeth 775-901-3023

Also available: Cakes, Cupcakes, Cake Pops, Cake truffles, Gourmet Chocolates and So Much More!

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We know how to understand your vision and bring it to life.

(530) 318-4637 • 152 B Hwy 50 Stateline, NV (Located between Lakeside Inn and Dart Liquor) • TAHOECAKESBYGRACE.COM TAHOE MAGAZINE

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NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA, NEAR TRUCKEE ONLINE: northstarcalifornia.com Northstar California near Truckee offers up a variety of activities on and off the snow for the upcoming winter. Skiing, tubing and snow-shoeing activities abound. Kids and adults can tackle the 200-yard-hill halfway up the mountain.

The Cross Country, Telemark and Snowshoe Center offers plenty of classic and skate skiing, snowshoeing, packed with daily lessons, tours and over 21 miles of carefully groomed trails.

The Northstar Villager Candle Shop allows people to explore the creative side with pottery painting, candle making and stuffed animals.

The Burton Snowboard Academy offers full-day lessons for all ages in small groups.

S'mores O'clock! offers families, children and parties to gather around firepits near the skating rink in the Village every day at 3:30 p.m. for treats.

And Family Aprés Snow Play offers an interactive arena for building snow sculptures and features with Northstar's professional instructors, music and a festive atmosphere.

Holiday festivities include a Tree Lighting Ceremony on the weekend after Thanksgiving,

“Challenge the status quo.”

775-831-5828

Lake Tahoe School.org

Kids have fun building a snowman on Sierra-at-Tahoe's Blizzard Mountain.

including s'mores, sleigh rides, holiday music and the lighting of the Holiday Tree.

The second annual Northern Lights festival, on Dec. 12, includes entertainment, live music and a fireworks show.

Noel Nights, occurring four evenings in December, invites families and friends to partake

in classic holiday celebrations and activities - such as horse-drawn sleigh rides, holiday caroling, ice skating, photos with Santa Claus, special shopping and dining events and more.

Northstar Village offers plenty of opportunities off the snow as well. Shop, dine, or take in a movie at the resort, as well as ice skating.

- Misha Gehring, Brown University, Lake Tahoe School Class of ‘10

Developing critical thinkers and articulate, confident

leaders for the 21st century

Lake Tahoe’s fully licensed and accredited independent school.

LAKE TAHOE SCHOOL DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, GENDER, AGE, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, NATIONAL ORIGIN OR ANCESTRY, DISABILITY, OR ANY OTHER LEGALLY PROTECTED STATUS IN ITS PROGRAMS, ORGANIZATIONS, ACTIVITIES, AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT AND ADMISSION 20

WINTER 2015 - 16

PHOTO: SIERRA AT TAHOE

PHOTO: XXXXXX

TAHOE MAGAZINE

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R E C R E A T I O N

S K I

T I P S

SKI RIGHT, SKI SAFER Correcting common skier errors can lead to a longer, safer winter

BY SEBASTIAN FOLTZ

N

O ONE WANTS TO end his or her ski or snowboard season early in a slopeside clinic. But let's face it - it's skiing, and accidents happen.

There are plenty of reasons, but the reality is that a lot of injuries can be avoided with proper form and good decision making. With that in mind, we thought we'd take a look at four common mistakes to try to keep the slopes a safer place this winter.

Because whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned pro, there's always room to refine your skills.

1

THE BACKSEAT DRIVER

This is one of the more common ski mistakes out there, and it can potentially be the most dangerous to the skier doing it - the infamous backseat stance. Any skier looking more like he or she is about to sit down in a La-Z-Boy than ski down a hill falls into this category. The big danger is that the stance makes a skier especially susceptible to serious knee injury in the event of a fall. And with a body position that is begging for gravity to do its thing, the skier is all the more likely to do just that.

The poor body position also takes away from a person's ability to control his or her skis. Simply put, skis work better when you're on top of them, not behind them.

The fix: Maybe easier said than done, the simple fix is to stand up straighter. The skier should be able to look down and see his or her toes. Obvious enough, sure, but sometimes it takes a conscious effort to think about body position. And more than just standing straight, the skier should have an athletic stance - over the skis with the knees slightly flexed - similar to a basketball player on defense. We'll address this again with the Frankenstein stance.

22

WINTER 2015 - 16

2

above:

LOOK OUT BELOW

You don't look at the gas pedal when driving a car, so why would you look at your skis while skiing? And yet so many beginner-to-intermediate skiers tend to do just that while going downhill. It may not be as dangerous as texting and driving, but on a ski slope it's up there. This can be especially dangerous on crowded slopes during holiday weekends. Looking down creates a sort of tunnel vision that could lead to collision or unknowingly heading toward an obstacle.

The fix: Skis will do what the body tells them to. Watching them won't change that. The big challenge is getting over that mental barrier and, just like thinking about the proper stance, making a conscious effort to do so. A lot of skiers don't even realize they do this one. A good way to work on this is to pick a place farther down the slope to focus on - this will also help with the next tip. Paying attention and feeling your body doing the motions rather than looking at how the skis respond is key. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for other skiers and remember there is scenery that is far more interesting than any ski tip.

THE TRUCK DRIVER AND THE 'FRANKENSKIER'

No matter how much some people might think it will help, moving one's hands and arms as if they are on a steering wheel will not turn those skis.

Proper turning technique goes from the waist down. Shoulders also have nothing to do with it. Too many beginner and lower intermediate skiers look like they're either trying to turn with their upper body first or are so ridged that their upper and lower bodies move as if their hips didn't exist, thus the Frankenstein look.

The fix: The goal in skiing is to keep the upper body "quiet" and facing downhill.

Turning motion should be in the hips, legs and ankles. Properly using the edges of the skis is also a frequently underdeveloped skill. When you watch a Julia Mancuso or a Travis Ganong ski down a slope they are almost never sitting flat on their skis.

Instead they are up on their edges. If you were downhill from them, you would be able to read the logo on the bottom of their skis.

Properly engaging the edge - or sides - of one's skis is the real secret to carving. It's accomplished by rolling the ankles sideways not twisting them. Keeping an athletic stance and remembering that the hips exist are also important. Practicing on easier - nearly flat - terrain is always a good idea. Even the best skiers practice on beginner terrain.

Heavenly ski instructor Rachel Richards, right, works with students Natalie Craven, center, and Thomas Brennan at the Heavenly Valley adult ski school.

opposite page:

A skier cruises down a groomer at Heavenly Resort. Properly incorporating the ski edges is one of the finer points in true carved turns.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: SCOTT SADY / HEAVENLY SKI RESORT

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TAHOE MAGAZINE

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S K I

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THE SNOWPLOW SPEED RACER/MISSILE

Call it a snowplow, a pizza, a triangle or a wedge, they are four words that all mean the same thing. Common with children, but also surprisingly prevalent among adults, the snowplow speed racer applies to the skiers who look like they're in a downhill race but still have their skis locked in the wedge, only turning ever so slightly. Skiers who have selected terrain above their ability also often resort to the wedge. While it's great start for beginners, if you're doing it at more than 10 miles an hour, you're doing something wrong. There's also a good chance your on a slope above your ability level. Inexperience and momentum can be two of the most dangerous things in skiing. And the worst part is A skier gets up on the skier may think he or she is in complete control. edge to carve through The fix: Turning is easily one of the most essential some fresh powder at Heavenly Resort. Proper skills in the sport, as is selecting terrain that is appropriate edging is often an for a skier's skill level. Too often skiers tend to dive into underused skill among terrain that is above their ability level. When that happens, intermediate skiers. the skills they might have grasped on less aggressive slopes go out the window. There's no shame in staying on a green slope. Any skier still using a wedge turn should focus on trying to straighten the skis after turning, and also make complete turns all the way across the slope. Many who struggle with turning don't shift their weight properly. It's counterintuitive at first but you want to shift your weight onto your downhill, or outside, ski while turning - almost to a point where you can lift your inside ski. With practice, straightening your skis after turning and incorporating the edges of the skis eventually turns into a full parallel turn.

24

WINTER 2015 - 16

"MANY WHO STRUGGLE WITH TURNING DON'T SHIFT THEIR WEIGHT PROPERLY." WORDS OF WISDOM Prior to working for the Summit Daily News in Colorado and locally for the Tahoe Daily Tribune newspapers, I spent five winters as a certified ski instructor.

Take note: with all these tips, it's a good idea to practice on flatter terrain and only focus on one skill at a time.

As in any sport, teaching oneself to ski can lead more to bad habits than to improvement. Even an intermediate to advanced skier can gain from having a second set of eyes assessing his or her ability. Just having another pair of eyes on what your doing — preferably the eyes of a professional — can make all the difference.

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And while these suggestions provide a start, the best fix to correcting any skier flaw might just be taking a lesson — and not one taught by a friend or family member. Self-taught skiers are often the most dangerous on the hill.

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TAHOE MAGAZINE

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BY DYLAN SILVER

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WINTER 2015 - 16

2 Yeti Lowball Mug For a quiet night at home or a winter camping adventure, Yeti's Lowball mugs are sleek and heavy duty.

The double-walled steel works for hot or cold drinks. There's even an available lid if you want to take your beverage to go.

Available at North Shore Ace Hardware, Kings Beach, 530-546-3505

H

SHO •

5

UT

RE

1 MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes One of the lightest and most rugged snowshoes on the market, MSR's Lightning Ascent can handle any mountain you throw at them.

The narrow aluminum frames provide 360 degrees of traction, a vast improvement over old tube designs.

Posilock AT bindings offer quick attachment.

Available at Alpenglow Sports, Tahoe City, 530-583-6917

3 Mammut Alugator Twist Snow Shovel Whether you're digging out your car from that freak run-in with a snowbank or your avalanche-buried buddy, Mammut's Twist Shovel will have the snow flying.

Lightweight and compact, it can fit easily in your trunk or your backcountry backpack. The Alugator's aluminum construction won't let you down when the snow turns to ice.

Available at Willard's Sports, Tahoe City, 530-583-6278

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4 Cotopaxi Kusa Jacket Llamas in Lake Tahoe?

Yes. Cotopaxi uses llama fiber insulation in their jackets, which has a range of benefits. The down alternative still insulates when it's wet. It's hypoallergenic. And the llamas aren't injured in the sheering process. Supposedly, they like it.

Available at coto paxi.com

5 The North Face Freedom Pants There's been a muchneeded shift in ski outfits toward fit and efficient design. The North Face's Freedom pants exemplify this.

The waterproof and breathable bottoms are available in three inseam lengths: short, medium and long.

Gone are the days where tall people must suffer in pants that end above their ankles.

Available at The North Face at Heavenly, South Lake Tahoe, 530-544-9062 6 LOWA Renegade GTX Ice Finally, a solid stylish boot built specifically for snow and ice. The GTX G3 can handle everything winter, from snowshoe trips in deep powder to a cozy dinner around the fireplace. A waterproof Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry and a Partalena fleece liner keeps them warm.

The sole is geared specifically for grip on ice.

Available at Lake of the Sky Outfitters, South Lake Tahoe, 530-541-1027

s r he

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SHO •

2 Arc'teryx Anertia Mitten New this year, the Anertia Mitten illustrates the ultraclean design and efficient function that Arc'teryx is known for.

Filled with Primaloft insulation and wrapped inn GoreTex, the Anertia is a warrior against cold fingers. The subtle leather palm is strong and enhances grip for those long, icy chair rides.

Available at Willard's Sports, Tahoe City, 530-583-6278

H UT

RE

1 GSI Glacier Stainless Vacuum Bottle A good insulated bottle is practically a winter necessity.

GSI's latest offering is lightweight and made with stainless steel walls. Whether shredding the backcountry or camping out in the lodge, the Glacier will keep your hot chocolate or a hot Toddy hot. Plus, it comes in a variety of bright colors.

Available at Mountain Hardware & Sports, Truckee, 530-587-4844

2 Smartwool Slopestyle Ultra Light Flat Spin Socks The most common mistake among those new to the slopes is to wear two pairs of socks. Multiple layers can squeeze feet, restricting blood circulation, which will actually make feet colder. Smart Wool's socks are lightweight, ultra stretchy and warm. Only one pair necessary.

Available at Tahoe Mountain Sports Inc., Truckee, 530-546-7001

SO

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4 Black Diamond Dawn Patrol 32 Meeting the demands of skiing and snowboarding requires a special kind of backpack.

Black Diamond's Dawn Patrol series will hang on tight through the groomers or sluff.

For those hunting powder stashes in the backcountry, there's the option to include an Avalung, proven to provide extra time in instances of avalanche burial.

Available at Sports LTD, South Lake Tahoe, 530-544-2284

PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY GEAR MANUFACTURERS

5 Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T Fleece This 40-year-old classic got a remodel this year. Now, the Snap-T is made with more recycled and sustainable materials.

There's also some to-die-for throwback patterns and some very bright color combinations. Don't be surprised if you see Yvonne Chouinard rocking one of these.

Available at Patagonia Heavenly, South Lake Tahoe, 530-542-3385 6 Tahoe Toffee Tahoe Toffee's chocolate-covered honey comb, caramel corn and peppermint bark are crafted in nearby Gardnerville, Nevada. The company's owner, Mindy Miller, has been making the treats for over two decades. The sweets are legendary in the Lake Tahoe area and especially hard to find around the holidays.

Available at Lira's Market, South Lake Tahoe, 530-577-5399

2

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TAHOE MAGAZINE

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Village Center

S O U T H TA H O E ’ S M A L L AT S TAT E L I N E

Top Brands, Unique Shoppes

We have it all!

Apparel Hot Cha Cha Savvy Sidestreet Boutique Sidestreet Formal Wear Sidestreet Kids Sidestreet Leathers & Furs Top Drawer

Art Galleries Artifacts DeRubeis Fine Art of Metal Marcus Ashley Gallery Sun Art Gallery Wyland Galleries

Eateries Baja Fresh Blue Dog Pizza Jamba Juice Raley’s Deli Starbucks Subway

Services AT&T Bike Rentals - Sports Ltd. Buckingham Vacation Properties Century 21 Elevated Fitness FedEx Office Imagine Salon Raley’s Pharmacy Raley’s Superstore Rio Nails & Spa Wells Fargo Bank

Specialty Shoppes Ace Hardware Alpaca Exotic Imports American Surplus Beads ETC. Dog.Dog.Cat. La Belle Maison Lake Tahoe Holidays Mr. Sport Simpson’s Jewelers Sports, Ltd.

28

PHOTO: XXXXXX At Highway 50 & Heavenly Village Way • South Lake Tahoe • One Block from Stateline • VillageCenterTahoe.com

WINTER 2015 - 16

RESORTS

DOWNHILL DELIGHT FROM KIRKWOOD TO MT. ROSE TO SUGAR BOWL, TAHOE-TRUCKEE DOWNHILL RESORTS offer breathtaking views of the Jewel of the Sierra. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled skier, there are trails for every skill level. Take a look at our downhill resort guide to figure out your next experience.

25% INTERPRETING THE GRAPHS On the following pages one of these informative little graphs accompanies each Tahoe-Truckee downhill resort profile.

It breaks down the trail difficulty percentages at each resort.

PHOTO: XXXXXXPHOTO: HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT CONTRIBUTED

Beginner trails Intermediate trails

50%

Expert trails

25%

TAHOE MAGAZINE

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D O W N H I L L

R E S O R T S

AT A G L A N C E

BOREAL

BOREAL MOUNTAIN RESORT IS TAHOE'S BEST VALUE with terrific discounted packages and Tahoe's best terrain parks.

Always the first resort in the area to open, Boreal's lifts spin from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily providing skiers and riders easy access to the slopes, day or night. Those new to snow will enjoy the Take 3, Ride FREE program offering a free season pass upon competition of three lessons. With five parks and two pipes, Boreal is a dream come true.

Woodward Tahoe, located steps away from the slopes, is Tahoe's best action sport training facility with indoor trampolines, foam pits, skateparks, ramps and more.

45% WWW.RIDEBOREAL.COM

30%

25%

AVG. SNOWFALL

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

RIDEABLE ACRES

TERRAIN

LIFT HOURS

400 inches

7,200 feet

500 feet

380

33 trails

9 a.m - 9 p.m.

AT A G L A N C E

DIAMOND PEAK

DON'T WORRY, SKI HAPPY WITH MANY WAYS FOR adults and kids to have a great day on the slopes without breaking the bank. Lift tickets range from $64 ($69 peak) for adults to free for those 6 and under and 80+. Located in Nevada's Incline Village, the affordable, family friendly resort offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, a summit elevation of 8,540feet and a 1,840-foot vertical drop.

Skiers and boarders can experience 655 acres of beginner to advanced terrain that include open glades.

Diamond Peak's Flex Pass is the best way to go for your multi-day vacation — available in 2-7 day increments, the Flex Pass is fully transferable, valid any day and direct-to-lift access.

18% WWW.DIAMONDPEAK.COM

SEASON

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

RIDEABLE ACRES

TERRAIN

LIFT HOURS

Dec. to April

8,540 feet

1,840 feet

655

30 trails

9 a.m - 4 p.m.

30

WINTER 2015 - 16

36%

46%

TOP: CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: BOREAL MOUNTAIN RESORT; BOTTOM: CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: DIAMOND PEAK SKI RESORT

AT A G L A N C E

GRANLIBAKKEN

GRANLIBAKKEN TAHOE FEATURES AN INTIMATE ski hill, perfect for beginning through intermediate skiers and snowboarders. It's a place to avoid the crowds, while enjoying a day of skiing right out your back door. Ski School, ski hill and snack bar are open Friday through Monday and daily Dec. 19 through Jan. 5 and Feb. 14-24. The rental shop, snow play area and warming hut are open daily all season. Granlibakken offers plenty of Sierra terrain to explore on cross-country skis or snowshoes.

Guests have easy access to popular cross-country trailheads that provide miles of un-groomed Lake Tahoe skiing and snowshoe terrain.

80% WWW.GRANLIBAKKEN.COM

20%

OPEN

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

RIDEABLE ACRES

SAUCER/SLED HILL

LIFT HOURS

Friday - Sunday

6,570 feet

240 feet

10

50 feet

9 a.m - 4 p.m.

AT A G L A N C E

HEAVENLY

THERE'S A REASON HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN Resort holds the non-existent title for the most first chairs missed and has been dubbed the "wild child" of Vail Resorts. Because whether you've decided to trade in your ski boots for your dance shoes at Unbuckle at Tamarack or you're on a mission to track down the on-mountain mobile DJ cat party, one thing is for sure — you better be prepared to go "all-in." Every aspect of the resort exudes that high-energy vibe.

From the parking attendants and lift operators' exuberant welcomes to the food and beverage employee flash mobs at Unbuckle, it's easy to tell that employees at Heavenly are having fun and that they want the guests to also.

20% WWW.SKIHEAVENLY.COM

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

ACRES

TERRAIN

WEEKDAY HOURS

WEEKEND HOURS

10,067 feet

3,500 feet

4,800

97 trails

9 a.m - 4 p.m.

8:30 a.m - 4 p.m.

PHOTO: TOP: CONTRIBUTED XXXXXX PHOTO: GRANLIBAKKEN; BOTTOM: PHOTO: RACHID DAHNOUN/HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT

35%

TAHOE MAGAZINE

45%

31

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AT A G L A N C E

HOMEWOOD

KNOWN AS TAHOE'S MOST BEAUTIFUL RESORT, Homewood Mountain Resort offers incomparable views of Lake Tahoe from each of its gladed runs, groomed slopes, powder bowls and new snowcat-accessed terrain.

Renowned as a family-focused mountain on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, free intermediate/advanced adult lessons, Homewood's children's and adult ski and snowboard school and Burton Learn-to-Ride Center offer a friendly environment for learning to ski and snowboard. Just steps from the slopes, Homewood's West Shore Café & Inn offers visitors one of the region's best lakefront locations for lunch, après-ski fun, dinner and lodging.

15% WWW.SKIHOMEWOOD.COM

45%

40%

AVG. SNOWFALL

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

ACRES

TERRAIN

LIFT HOURS

450 inches

8,740 feet

2,510 feet

2,010

64+ trails

9 a.m - 4 p.m.

AT A G L A N C E

KIRKWOOD

KIRKWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT IS ENTERING ITS 42nd year of operation and third as a member of the Vail Resorts family. Since 1972, the 2,300 acres of Kirkwood have provided some of North America's fiercest in-bounds terrain that will challenge skiers and riders from first chair to last.

The solitary horseshoe canyon in which Kirkwood resides is one of the purest, most authentic, big-mountain ski experiences in America, and with an average annual snowfall of 600 inches, there are sure to be plenty of deep powder days.

12% WWW.KIRKWOOD.COM

AVG. SNOWFALL

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

RIDEABLE ACRES

TERRAIN

LIFT HOURS

600 inches

9,800 feet

2,000 feet

2,300

80+ trails

9 a.m - 4 p.m.

32

WINTER 2015 - 16

58%

TOP: PHOTO: OWAKI-KULLA PHOTOGRAPHY/HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT; BOTTOM: PHOTO: COREY RICH PRODUCTIONS/KIRKWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT

30%

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AT A G L A N C E

MT. ROSE

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Clothing | Purses | Jewelry Housewares | Books | Art & Much More!

401 Village Blvd. | Incline Village | Mon-Thur 1-5 Fri-Sat 10-5

All proceeds support Pet Network’s animal rescue

WEST LAKE PROPERTIES AT TAHOE

20%

Real Estate Sales and Rentals WWW.MTROSE.COM

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

RIDEABLE ACRES

9,700 feet

1,800 feet

1,200

AVG. SNOWFALL

TERRAIN

LIFTS

LIFT HOURS

350 inches

60+ trails

8

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

50%

30%

MT. ROSE SKI TAHOE IS LOCATED JUST 25 MINUTES AWAY FROM RENO and 15 minutes from Lake Tahoe and boasts over 1,200 acres of terrain and 1,800 vertical feet, including the 200-plus acre Chutes. Two six-passenger high speed chairlifts get you to the peak of the mountain in 3.5 minutes with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and Nevada awaiting you at the top. With Mt. Rose being just 25 minutes away from the Reno/Tahoe International Airport and Reno's 10,000+ rooms, it's the perfect choice for the first and last day of your Lake Tahoe vacation.

PHOTO: BILLY XXXXXX JESBERG/MT. ROSE SKI TAHOE

SKI TAHOE ... and stay with us!

westlakeproperties.com 800.870.8201 TAHOE MAGAZINE

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R E S O R T S

AT A G L A N C E

NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA

11%

WITH CAPITAL INVESTMENTS SURPASSING $30 MILLION throughout the past five years, Northstar California Resort is Lake Tahoe's premier destination for guests in search of quintessential relaxed California luxury and style. Deemed the 'Best Resort for Families' by Outside Magazine and North Lake Tahoe's top-ranked resort for 2015

by SKI Magazine, Northstar is a favorite among parents and children; and with accommodations exuding unparalleled mountain elegance — throughout The Village at Northstar as well as within slopesidelocated Constellation Residences at Northstar, a Rock Resort and The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe — Northstar continues to offer skiers the best of the Lake Tahoe experience.

WWW.NORTHSTARCALIFORNIA.COM

33%

56%

SEASON

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

RIDEABLE ACRES

TERRAIN

LIFT HOURS

Nov. - April

8,610 feet

2,280 feet

3,170

100 trails

8:30 a.m - 4 p.m.

AT A G L A N C E

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

WITH 400+ INCHES OF AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL, wind-protected slopes, incredible tree skiing, and 320 acres of backcountry terrain out the Huckleberry Gates, Sierra-at-Tahoe is the epitome of the authentic California ski experience. For beginner skiers and riders, Sierra offers over 100 acres of dedicated learning terrain, four beginner-only conveyor lifts and PSIA Certified Instructors. Sierra is the place to learn skiing or riding at Lake Tahoe.

For freestylers, a commitment to innovative terrain parks has led to Sierra being recognized by TransWorld SNOWboarding as the #1 Best Value and a Top 10 Overall Resort as well as among the Top 10 Best Parks and Pipes in the nation.

25% WWW.SIERRAATTAHOE.COM

AVG. SNOWFALL

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

ACRES

WEEKDAY HOURS

WEEKEND HOURS

400+ inches

8,852 feet

2,212 feet

2,000

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

34

WINTER 2015 - 16

50%

25%

TOP: PHOTO: CHRIS BARTKOWSKI/NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA; BOTTOM: PHOTO: BRIAN WALKER/SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

KIDS

6 & UNDER SKI FREE

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ADULT LIFT TICKET $69 HOLIDAY

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rec center Pass 50% 1-Day with Diamond Peak ticket stub off (Expires 6/1/16 ; Not Valid 12/24-1/4; 2/12-15)

InclineRecreation.com • 775-832-1300 PHOTO: XXXXXX

through April 2016

TAHOE MAGAZINE

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AT A G L A N C E

SODA SPRINGS

AS THE LONGEST-RUNNING SKI RESORT IN CALIFORNIA, Soda Springs Mountain Resort is the best place to explore the magic of winter at Tahoe. Secluded in the picturesque pines and conveniently located directly off of Interstate 80, the welcoming resort spirit and relaxed atmosphere is perfect for families new to snow. In fact, Soda Springs offers Planet Kids, a dedicated snowplay area designed for children ages nine and under.

Although, big kids can play too!

Planet Kids is best described as a snow playground featuring tubing carousels, snow-tubing lanes, ski/ snowboard specific learning areas, snow volcanoes to climb and more.

30% WWW.SKISODASPRINGS.COM

40%

30%

AVG. SNOWFALL

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

LIFTS

TERRAIN

LIFT HOURS

400 inches

7,700 feet

500 feet

4

15 trails

9 a.m - 4 p.m.

AT A G L A N C E

SQUAW VALLEY ALPINE MEADOWS

KNOWN FOR LEGENDARY SKIING AND GORGEOUS views of Lake Tahoe, Squaw Valley — Alpine Meadows is one of the jewels of the region. From incredible tree skiing on a powder day to perfectly buffed corduroy on a crisp winter morning, Squaw Valley ­— Alpine Meadows is home to some of the North America's finest terrain.

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, locals and visitors alike can relax with family and friends at lively bars and restaurants or cozy fire pits in The Village at Squaw Valley.

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WINTER 2015 - 16

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TAHOE MAGAZINE

37

D O W N H I L L

R E S O R T S

AT A G L A N C E

SUGAR BOWL

HOME TO THE MOST SNOW AT TAHOE WITH 500 INCHES on average each season, 103 trails and 1,700 acres of skiing across four mountain peaks, Sugar Bowl Resort offers everything from gentle rolling cruisers to steep and challenging chutes. And with an open boundary policy Sugar Bowl delivers unrivaled backcountry access for those educated in powder pursuits beyond the ropes, and even offers professionally guided tours at the Backcountry Adventure Center for those looking to learn. A new and improved, relocated terrain park has local shredders buzzing and the recently added Crow's Peak chair is a must-ski, with 1,000 vertical of terrain through thick forest and steep trails.

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38%

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AVG. SNOWFALL

TOP ELEVATION

VERTICAL RISE

RIDEABLE ACRES

TERRAIN

LIFT HOURS

500 inches

8,383 feet

1,500 feet

1,700

103 trails

9 a.m - 4 p.m.

Downhill Ski Area With wide-open, gentle slopes and a brand new snowmaking system, Tahoe Donner is perfect for beginners and families.

Cross country SkI AreA The lodge restaurant & pub Dine fireside next to floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular views of the High Sierra. Full menus are posted online.

Pizza on the hill A casual atmosphere, full salad bar, and family-friendly menu make Pizza on the Hill a perfect après-ski spot for winter evenings.

Check out our new state-of-the-art facility opening for 2015-2016.

Skiers and snowshoers may explore over 100 km of groomed terrain as well as participate in signature events throughout the season.

snowplay The perfect venue for families with children as well as the young at heart, Tahoe Donner Snowplay offers the most affordable sledding and tubing options in the area with fun and wacky events all winter.

tahoedonner.com | 530-587-9400 38

WINTER 2015 - 16

TOP: PHOTO: GRANT BARTA/SUGAR BOWL SKI RESORT

AT A G L A N C E

TAHOE DONNER

THE PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN AND LEARNING,TAHOE Donner Downhill Ski Area is committed to being the best place to begin. Tahoe Donner offers a variety of services for families, including ski instruction for children as young as 3 years old, interchangeable lift tickets for parents with non-skiing children, several family-oriented events, retail outlets, and a kidfriendly menu in the cafeteria. This year Tahoe Donner is also bringing snowmaking to the slopes using the most advanced technology. With wide-open bowls, uncrowded slopes, great beginner terrain, excellent grooming, and a friendly, courteous staff, the smaller size delivers that personal touch that the larger ski areas can't always provide.

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9 a.m - 4 p.m.

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11105 Donner Pass Rd. Truckee TAHOE MAGAZINE

39

40

WINTER 2015 - 16

PHOTO: XXXXXX

W H A T ' S

FRESH TRACKS

BY ADAM JENSEN

A

BOREAL M O U N TA I N RESORT Boreal upgraded its snowmaking system over the summer and will offer a new dining option this winter with the ski-in, ski-out Waffle Cabin.

A new 13-foot half pipe, new bag

R E S O R T S

Boreal Mountain Resort will feature a new halfpipe and bag jump among its extensive collection of terrain park features this winter.

What's new at Lake TahoeTruckee ski resorts this winter

new ski season is here, and with it comes a host of new developments at Lake Tahoe-Truckee's ski areas.

Here's a look at some of what's new on the slopes for 2015-16:

N E W

jump, improved tubing area, a new learning area and magic carpet will also be part of the resort's 2015-16 offerings.

DIAMOND PEAK Forest thinning during the summer helped reduce fire danger and improved gladed skiing at this Incline Village ski resort. New off-piste terrain will be available between the Diamondback and Spillway runs, located off Crystal Ridge. Wild Bill's BBQ, located on

Homewood will offer guests the ability to film their runs via drone this season.

Diamond Peak's Base Lodge deck, will also offer authentic barbecue fare, while Diamond Peak's Loft Bar, located on the top floor of the Base Lodge, will increase the number of beers on tap to 12.

H E AV E N LY M O U N TA I N RESORT Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Heavenly will host special retrothemed Unbuckle at Tamarack aprĂŠs parties, free concerts and more this year. The resort also added two Prinoth Bison X snowcats to its grooming fleet and four new snowmaking guns. A new alpine coaster at the resort is under construction and slated to open next summer. The coaster will allow guests to descend on a raised track through the forest, utilizing gravity for the descent while still giving

TOP LEFT: PHOTO: KYLE BECKMANN; TOP RIGHT: CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT

riders full control of their speed.

The coaster will be located northwest of the existing tubing hill.

HOMEWOOD M O U N TA I N RESORT Homewood Mountain Resort has partnered with Cape Productions to provide a new type of video service for action sports that will allow athletes to strap on an armband and film their entire run via drone camera. Homewood Snowcat Adventures is also scheduled to operate for the first time during the 2015-16 winter season. Running on backcountry terrain positioned on the flanks of Ellis Peak, groups of up to 10 skiers and riders will have access to a wide variety of terrain options, including tree runs, steeps, bowls and intermediate-level glades via the snowcat service.

TAHOE MAGAZINE

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R E S O R T S

W H A T ' S

N E W

M T. R O S E S K I TA H O E

Squaw Valley was among the Lake Tahoe ski resorts that upgraded snowmaking abilities for 2015-16.

KIRKWOOD M O U N TA I N RESORT Kirkwood Mountain Resort will have several new offerings through its Expedition: Kirkwood program designed to take intermediate

Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe relocated and renamed its Ponderosa chairlift and added four new beginner trails to the mountain this summer. The new positioning of the Wizard lift, meanwhile, will expand and enhance the beginner skiing and snowboarding experience. Nine new Polecat tower-mounted snow machines have been installed in locations around the mountain, with four specifically positioned at the base of Slide Bowl.

The resort also made renovations to its Timbers Bar and improved the Main Lodge basket/ski check-in. and expert skiers and riders to the next level. Three-session series are aimed at improving skills in the steeps, navigating the chutes of the resort and exploring off the top of Kirkwood's cornices. All sessions include lunch and use of GoPro cameras for skier/rider analysis.

N O R T H S TA R CALIFORNIA Northstar's Big Springs Express Gondola is undergoing a makeover and mechanical update. Located at the base of the mountain in The Village at Northstar, both portals of the Gondola are being renovated to

enhance the guests' experience in regards to both style and efficiency of travel time to and from midmountain.

S I E R R A - AT- TA H O E In anticipation of an El Nino winter, Sierra-at-Tahoe made improvements for the 2015-16 season in increased connectivity, guest benefits technology, culture, and celebration of local talent. It diversified its fleet of snowcats to include a new Prinoth Bison X and increased WiFi connectivity at its base area. The resort has also teamed up with local High Fives Foundation to add to Sierra's current safety initiatives such as Lids on Kids, Know the Code and Smart Style in terrain parks.

S Q U AW VA L L E Y — ALPINE MEADOWS Squaw Valley saw the replacement of the Siberia Express lift in the offseason. Formerly a four-person

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REGIONAL PARK ICE RINK WINTER 2015 - 16

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PHOTO: MATT PALMER

PHOTO: XXXXXX

TAHOE MAGAZINE

43

R E S O R T S

W H A T ' S

chair, the new six-passenger lift is primarily used by intermediate and advanced skiers and gives riders to access Siberia Bowl, Mainline and the Mainline Terrain Park, as well as the Gold Coast area. Squaw Valley also added snowmaking guns at the Big Blue, Siberia and Headwall lifts. At Alpine Meadows, two PistenBully 600 winch cats will join the grooming fleet. The resort has also added five new high-efficiency snowmaking guns, allowing the resort to expand snowmaking on the lower portion of the Summit run. Both Squaw and Alpine expect to have new features designed for families and intermediate terrain park users. Additions may include features such as gently banked turns and small rollers and jumps in areas like the Belmont learning park at Squaw or the Loop Road at Alpine.

SUGAR BOWL Sugar Bowl Resort will open a new terrain park designed by Snow

44

WINTER 2015 - 16

N E W

Park Technologies this season. The new terrain park will be located below the Mt. Lincoln Express Chairlift and will be accessible from both Mt. Lincoln Express and the Christmas Tree Express chairlifts.

Sugar Bowl has also upgraded its snowmaking capabilities to include Rahlves' Run on Mount Lincoln.

Sugar Bowl will also open a new cross-country rental, lesson and gear room for cross-country skiers in the Sugar Bowl Village near the Mt. Disney Express chairlift called Village Station. The Village Station is another example of the increasing connection between the downhill ski runs of Sugar Bowl and the cross-country trails of nearby Royal Gorge, North America's largest cross-country ski resort.

TA H O E D O N N E R DOWNHILL SKI AREA Tahoe Donner will introduce snowmaking to its ski area this season. The new system includes

Skiers and riders take the Tamarack Express lift at Heavenly Mountain Resort, which celebrates 60 years this winter.

seven machines, a pump station building and 12 hydrants and electrical pedestals. A cooling tower, which lowers the water temperature quickly and allows for shorter operating times, will also be installed.

Tahoe Donner will also celebrate a new Cross Country Ski Area

facility this winter season. The new building, known as the Alder Creek Adventure Center, will serve as the base area for Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area in the winter and Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center and Tahoe Donner Bikeworks in the spring and summer.

PHOTO:PHOTO: ADAM JENSEN XXXXXX

PHOTO: XXXXXX

TAHOE MAGAZINE

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R E S O R T S

S K I

P A S S E S

MORE BANG FOR FOR YOUR BUCK More and more Tahoe-Truckee ski resorts are partnering up to provide cross-region travel incentive

BY TIM HAUSERMAN

T

his summer, Sugar Bowl Resort announced that its 2015-16 season pass will provide access to Woodward Tahoe. It's the latest example of a trend that has been sweeping mountain resort businesses for several years: cross-promotion.

For the upcoming winter, a season pass to Sugar Bowl also means you'll get a few day tickets to Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley, along with some at Woodward, which is located at Boreal Mountain Resort.

Woodward Tahoe is marketed as the Tahoearea's freestyle training center, offering trampolines, foam pits, an indoor skatepark, pump track, and launch pads for park skis and park boards.

Both are located within 10 minutes of one another on Donner Summit.

Sugar Bowl Marketing Director John Monson said the partnership is about providing value to the customer.

In addition to lower ticket prices, season pass holders also receive discounts on food and beverages, rentals and lessons at Sugar Bowl.

46

WINTER 2015 - 16

"We see a big shift toward season pass holders versus day ticket holders," said Monson.

In fact, Monson said more than half the ski days at the resort are now used by season pass holders.

These pass holders want to get the value of a season pass, but not have to be locked in to only skiing at one resort, he said.

If they buy a season pass at Sugar Bowl, and also get to ski a few days at Squaw, it is a win-win for everyone, Monson said - Sugar Bowl sells a pass, and Squaw gets a skier who will be introduced to the area and perhaps support the village and onslope amenities.

F R I E N D LY C O M P E T I T I O N The Woodward-Sugar Bowl combo is the latest in a newer era in the ski industry, in which resorts are competing with each other — while at the same time encouraging skiers to try out the competition, said Squaw Valley spokesperson Michael Ratliff.

"By offering skiers and riders access to multiple resorts on a single season pass, we're increasing

Amie Engerbretson skis down a run at Squaw Valley Ski Resort.

the diversity of mountain experience available to our guests," Radlick said. "This gives our guests an unbeatable value and even more access to the most incredible destinations across the country while increasing their flexibility to hit the slopes when and where the conditions are best."

For example, a Squaw/Alpine 2015-16 season pass also provides you some tickets to Sierra-atTahoe, located south of South Lake Tahoe.

Other partnerships recently include Heavenly providing access to ski at its sister resorts, Northstar and Kirkwood; and a Homewood pass that gets you tickets to Diamond Peak and June Mountain.

One reason that these cross-promotion programs are a hit is because of how the pricing structure has changed over the last 10 years at mountain resorts.

While the cost of a day ticket has gone up to more than $100 at some areas, season pass prices are relatively inexpensive.

Passes at the top ski resorts can be found in the $400-$500 range (with restrictions), with even the top unrestricted passes in the $600-$800 range.

Thus, if someone skis 30 days in a year at their favorite mountain, they are paying less then $20 a day.

If that pass holder then has to fork out $100 to ski at another mountain just down the road, though, it can be a pill that is tough to swallow.

Once several ski areas started providing tickets to other mountains - all the rest needed to jump on the bandwagon to compete. Visit the website of your favorite ski resort, or call, to get full details on the plethora of season pass deals and partnerships throughout the Truckee-Tahoe region.

PHOTO: JEFF ENGERBRETSON

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R E S O R T S

C R O S S

C O U N T R Y

CROSSING THE COUNTRYSIDE WITH SMOOTH GLIDING MOTIONS, BOTH SKATE SKIING AND CLASSIC-STYLE NORDIC HAVE MUCH LESS IMPACT ON THE BODY COMPARED TO DOWNHILL SKIING. 48

WINTER 2015 - 16

Nordic skiing at Lake Tahoe and Truckee is worth a try

BY SEBASTIAN FOLTZ

W

hile in Scandinavian countries Nordic skiing is close to being the national pastime — with some races attracting participation in numbers similar to events like the Boston Marathon. Here in the states, it largely still plays the role of second fiddle to its alpine counterpart.

But with a relatively low buy-in for gear and ski passes, as well as a cardiovascular conditioning benefit, it's definitely worth a second look.

We spoke with former pro Swedish Nordic skier, Olof Hedberg, to get a little more insight into one of his homeland's favorite pastimes and why it's worth a try.

"First of all, it's an endurance heavy sport. It's easy to get fitness quickly," Hedberg said. "Second of all, it's a great full-body work out. You're using both your legs and upper body, which is different from running and biking. Third, like swimming, it's low impact."

He suggested it's a great option for both summer

athletes looking to stay fit and not lose their conditioning through winter, as well as those who may have knee or hip trouble.

With smooth gliding motions, both skate skiing and classic-style Nordic have much less impact on the body compared to downhill skiing.

And while it can be endurance-heavy, if you're pushing for speed Nordic skiing can also be a casual pastime more akin to a hike.

Still, if you've ever watched someone glide across the snow and thought, "that looks easy," don't be fooled.

"I wish I could say it was," explained Hedberg, suggesting, "maybe go with a coach. It can be tricky the first couple times."

While it requires a lot of coordination, he also said those with ice skating or roller skating experience might find a faster learning curve.

Either way, he said, "Once you've done it a couple of times and get the technique down, you can really get speed and more easily get the benefits from it."

PHOTO: XXXXXX

WHERE TO CROSS-COUNTRY S K I AT TA H O E TRUCKEE

Visit us at our two locations!

ROYAL GORGE is the largest crosscountry ski area in North America, located in Soda Springs, with over 200 kilometers of groomed trails and 6,000 acres of pristine terrain. online

www.royalgorge.com phone

530-426-3871 TAHOE CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREA offers a 65-kilometer trail system in Tahoe City that accesses Ponderosa Pine and White Fir forests, open meadows, and views of Lake Tahoe.

LOCATION 1

online

www.tahoexc.org phone

530-583-5475 TAHOE DONNER CROSS COUNTRY SKI RESORT is located in Truckee. It offers 100 kilometers of trails that include climbs, rolling hills, pine and aspen forests. online

www.tahoedonner.com

LOCATION 2 BOTH LOCATIONS OFFER: • Groomed • Fresh meals trails • Dog friendly • Rentals trails • Ski school • Free wifi

65km groomed cross country trails!

(530) 583-5475 tahoexc.org

5km groomed cross country trails and sledding hill!

Sled, Ski, Board & S’more

phone

530-587-9484 NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA offers great views of Lake Tahoe and Martis Valley that can be seen from many of the 35 kilometers of groomed, scenic trails. online

Inspiring connections

www.northstarcalifornia.com phone

530-562-3270

RESORT AT SQUAW CREEK NORDIC CENTER is situated in Squaw Valley, adjacent to the mountain that was home to the 1960 Winter Olympics.

It hosts 18 kilometers of groomed trail. online

www.squawcreek.com

Nestled in a wooded valley near Lake Tahoe, Granlibakken offers comfortable lodging and year-round activites.

granlibakken.com 800.543.3221

phone

800-327-3353 PHOTO: XXXXXX

TAHOE MAGAZINE

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R E S O R T S

C R O S S

C O U N T R Y

S K AT E V S . C L A S S I C In the Nordic skiing world, there are two styles — skate and classic. Both have their advantages. It's more a question of which may be right for you, and many avid cross-country skiers alternate between the two.

The main difference beyond style of motion is, "with classic you can go more everywhere. Skate, you really have to stay on groomed trails," Hedberg said.

Skate style involves movement similar to ice skating with wider gliding strides. Classic is the style you might picture someone breaking their own trail in a more linear motion. Classic skiers slide straight forward on one ski while their heel releases on the other in a lunging motion.

"Both are really good for conditioning," added Hedberg, further explaining that classic would be the choice for those interested in more of a hiking style experience off of groomed trails. "I like to call it explorer skiing. More like walking in the woods on skis."

Check out any one of Tahoe-Truckee's numerous Nordic ski areas or rental shops for more information and lesson suggestions.

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50

WINTER 2015 - 16

PHOTO: XXXXXX

SUGAR PINE STATE PARK on Tahoe's West Shore is located in Tahoma. The area hosted the 1960 Winter Olympic Nordic skiing competitions. It features open meadows and stream paths on four trails and 20 kilometers. online

bit.ly/1P4SvTU phone

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Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

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Ski • Snowboard • Backcountry Apparel & Accessories

SERVICE

Overnight Ski Tuning & Custom Boot Fitting CAMP RICHARDSON near South Lake Tahoe offers 10 kilometers of skier-packed trails along the shore of Lake Tahoe, or winding through giant Jeffrey pines and over gentle hills on the groomed track.

RENTALS

Extensive Demo Ski Selection Affordable Rentals for Adults & Children

online

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530-542-6584 HOPE VALLEY CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER offers 60 miles of trails, 10 groomed, in meadow and forest. Staff escorts guests on Full Moon Tours, Wildlife Tours and Backcountry Skills Seminars. No trail fees are charged, but they rely on voluntary donations.

SAVE TIME AND BOOK YOUR RENTALS ONLINE! Reservations Available at:

www.rentals.villageskiloft.com 800 Tahoe Blvd. • Incline Village, NV • 775-831-3537 • Open Daily • villageskiloft.com

online

www.hopevalleycrosscountry.com phone

530-694-2266 KIRKWOOD RESORT features 24 trails and 70 kilometers of groomed trails. online

www.kirkwood.com phone

209-258-7277 BIJOU CROSS-COUNTRY offers an informal 4-kilometer marked trail across Bijou Community Park in South Lake Tahoe. No trail fee, but no rental equipment or lessons are available. phone

530-542-6056

PHOTO: XXXXXX

TAHOE MAGAZINE

51

A M E R I C A’ S N E X T

RISING

STAR North Lake Tahoe local Travis Ganong talks life away from World Cup racing

BY SYLAS WRIGHT

W

HEN YOU REPRESENT BOTH THE PRESENT AND FUTURE OF U.S. MEN’S DOWNHILL SKI RACING, YOU NATURALLY GET PEPPERED WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR CRAFT. But there’s a lot more to Travis Ganong than his ski racing talents.

A North Lake Tahoe native through and through, Ganong bought a home in Lake Forest (in Tahoe City) last year and enrolled in Sierra Nevada College’s Ski Business & Resort Management program, which he hopes to parlay into a post-racing career at a Tahoe resort.

He holds a deep love for Lake Tahoe and cherishes every moment he can spend here. Not only does the area offer the familiar sights and smells of his upbringing, it’s a world-class training destination filled with epic trails for hiking and mountain biking, quality restaurants, local faces, and, of course, the largest alpine lake on the continent.

Ganong loves it all and is thrilled to share its splendor with Canadian girlfriend and fellow World Cup ski racer Marie-Michele Gagnon - who wasn’t sure that it snowed in California before experiencing a Tahoe powder day for herself.

And like the true Tahoe local he is, Ganong remains grounded and humble despite his skiing exploits, which include a fifth-place finish at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, his first World Cup win this past season and ninth-place finish in the 2014-15 downhill standings.

Check out what he had to say in an email Q-and-A from the U.S. training camp in Chile.

52

WINTER 2015 - 16

PHOTO: XXXXXX

Travis Ganong smiles after winning the super G at the 2010 U.S. Alpine Championships.

PHOTO: DOUG HANEY / U.S. SKI TEAM

TAHOE MAGAZINE

53

Travis Ganong competes in a World Cup downhill race in Val Gardena, Italy.

“EVERY YEAR I GET

MENTALLY STRONGER, PHYSICALLY STRONGER

AND MORE CONFIDENT.”

- Travis Ganong Travis Ganong signs autographs for young fans during the 2014 U.S. Alpine Championships at Squaw Valley.

54

WINTER 2015 - 16

TOP PHOTO: MITCHELL GUNN / ESPA; INSET PHOTO: SYLAS WRIGHT

Q: WHAT WERE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR SUMMER OFFSEASON? A: “I got to go on this trip to Svalbard Island this spring to live on a boat and ski tour for 10 days with Ice Axe Expeditions. That was a huge highlight of the summer and one of the most amazing adventure ski trips I have ever done. Other than that, I’ve been training hard this summer with a morning at A Sante in Tahoe City, and big mountain bike rides or hikes the afternoon. We have also had some amazing summer skiing in New Zealand and Chile, where they are both having big winters. I’m actually writing this from Chile.”

Q: HOW’S THE NEW HOUSE? HAVE YOU EMBARKED ON ANY IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS OR ANYTHING LIKE THAT? A: “It has been so nice to move back to Tahoe and to set some roots of my own in Tahoe City, and to have a place of my own to come home to after months on the road. We have done a bunch of projects around the house - it’s super fun. The last project was to set up some chairlift seats in the backyard from the old Siberia chair - an awesome piece of skiing history.”

Q: WHEN YOU’RE NOT TRAVELING AND GET THE CHANCE TO SPEND SOME TIME AT HOME, DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE RESTAURANTS OR BARS THAT YOU LIKE TO HIT UP? A: “Tahoe House or Sugar Pine in Lake Forest are some of my favorite places to go to for a coffee or a sandwich. It’s so nice in Tahoe in the summer, so I’m always outside and bringing the goodies from those places along on an adventure or just enjoying them down at the beach. Same goes for a tasty beer or two after a big week of training - it’s so nice to go climb up somewhere and look down at the lake or hang out on the docks and enjoy. I try to be outside as much as I can all summer.

Favorite places to eat would probably be Mamasake, Christy Hill, Fire Sign Cafe (best breakfast on the planet), Bridgetender, and sailing down to Sunnyside for a meal on the lake. There are so many amazing choices around the North Shore and Squaw. We are super lucky to have so many amazing options in a small town.”

Q: ANY FAVORITE LOCAL TRAILS TO MOUNTAIN BIKE OR HIKE ON? A: “Living in Lake Forest, I always zip up through the Nordic center and then from there I have so many options for

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mountain biking. I usually loop up to the Rim Trail and then head over to painted rock/wallternate/three bridges, and then back on the Fisherman’s Trail, or Painted Rock to Glass Mountain/Sawtooth Trail, and then down to town. Heading the other direction for bigger rides I love OTB and Deer Creek to Squaw and then Fisherman’s Trail back to Tahoe City, or up to Mount Watson for some of the best views of the lake via mountain bike, and some of the most fun downhills around. The Jackpine DH is also super fun to get back to Tahoe City.

For hiking I usually head to the crest around Blackwood, Ward Canyon, Alpine and Squaw. Or if I have more time I go down the West Shore and head into the Stoney Ridge area or Desolation. We have one of the best natural playgrounds all around us on the North Shore.”

Q: YOU’VE EXPRESSED BEFORE HOW LUCKY YOU FEEL TO HAVE GROWN UP IN TAHOE. HOW MUCH FUN IS IT FOR YOU TO SHOW OFF THE AREA TO YOUR GIRLFRIEND? AND WHAT ARE HER IMPRESSIONS OF THE AREA? A: “She loves it here. First time she saw Tahoe was in the winter after a massive storm, when there were five-foot wind drifts of snow in Boomtown, and my parents' garage in Alpine Meadows was completely drifted over. A lot of people don’t realize that there is snow in California, and so this was an amazing surprise for her to see the most snow she has ever seen in her life that day.

It’s fun exploring all that Tahoe has to offer with her. We are both professional skiers and have similar schedule and training programs, so we can go on big hikes, mountain bike rides or paddleboard journeys together all the while training to be better skiers.”

Q: YOUR SKIING ALLOWS YOU TO VISIT A LOT OF ICONIC MOUNTAIN LOCATIONS AROUND THE WORLD. DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE LOCATIONS THAT YOU ENJOY VISITING MOST? A: “Every place that we get to go to is amazing. Every time you leave the mountains to travel, you enter another world filled with people, cities, urban sprawl and pollution, so for me, every time I get to a new mountain range, valley or ski area, it is the best place in the world at that moment. I’m lucky to be able to spend the bulk of my time in that world, and to have a home base in Tahoe.”

Q: YOU ENROLLED IN SIERRA NEVADA COLLEGE’S SKI BUSINESS & RESORT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM LAST SPRING. HOW IS THAT GOING? A: “It’s going great. I’ve always been interested in the ski resort industry, and I am extremely lucky to have Sierra Nevada College in my backyard. From all my travels I get to see a lot of different mountain resorts, and I hope to combine those experiences with the experience I am getting at SNC to set me up for my future after ski racing.”

Q: WHAT WOULD BE YOUR IDEAL JOB/PROFESSION AFTER YOUR SKI RACING CAREER? ANY SPECIFIC GOALS? A: “It would be great to be involved with one of the local ski areas in Tahoe. I would also love to guide people in the mountains and share what I have learned from the mountains with other people. We will see what happens; anything is possible.”

Q: OBVIOUSLY YOU’RE NOT GOING TO QUIT SKIING ONCE YOU’RE DONE RACING. WOULD YOU CONSIDER GETTING INTO THE BIG-MOUNTAIN FREESKIING SCENE AND FILMING? A: “Yeah I have always loved to freeski and I have done a little filming with Warren Miller in Alaska and Sweetgrass Productions in Argentina. It would be super fun once I am done ski racing to go into that world a bit, and actually have time to go on some fun trips and ski in some of the places that I currently don’t have time to go to.

I have some big goals to get after still in ski racing, but I also for sure have goals for the big-mountain freeskiing world.”

Q: ABOUT YOUR SKIING, YOU’RE COMING OFF YOUR MOST SUCCESSFUL SEASON TO DATE — FIRST WORLD CUP WIN, NINTH OVERALL IN THE DOWNHILL STANDINGS. WHAT DID THAT SUCCESS DO FOR YOUR CONFIDENCE AND YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR YOURSELF GOING FORWARD? A: “Every year I get mentally stronger, physically stronger and more confident, and moving forward, all of those strengths will help me get to where I want to be as a downhiller.

Staying healthy is the main goal now. I’m feeling great this summer and training is going really well, so hopefully I can build off of my success from last winter and have a great season.”

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STILL

JAMIE LOU

FROM SOUTH LAKE TA H O E O LY M P I A N A N D X G A M E S S TA R C H AT S A B O U T L I F E S NOW B OA R D I NG A N D HER SUCCESS

BY S E BA S T I A N F O LT Z

T

WELVE X GAMES MEDAL S - and counting - an Olympic gold, back-to-back-to-back Dew Tour championships, a 2015 Burton U.S. Open title and reigning No. 1 female slopestyle rider on the World Snowboard Tour, she's Tahoe's golden girl - Jamie Anderson. And with a win to open the 2015-16 season at New Zealand's Winter Games, the queen of women's slope doesn't look like she'll be slowing down anytime soon.

But with all her accolades, the soft-spoken snowboarder is still just Jamie-Lou from South Tahoe - the humble girl that's immensely grateful for the world of experiences she's been given and looking to give back.

Heading into this season she's set on pushing the boundaries of women's snowboarding once again. The 25-year-old rider told Tahoe Magazine she's even looking to step it up a notch this winter, and will be taking on a coach for the first time since age 15.

We caught up with the slightly jet lagged Tahoe native by phone, while she was taking a break from a busy summer at her mom's farm in Vermont. Between stacking wood, tending to her

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PHOTO: TRIPP FAY / COPPER MOUNTAIN RESORT

LOOKING BACK ON THE LAST Y E A R A N D A H A L F, H O W HAS LIFE CHANGED SINCE WINNING GOLD IN SOCHI? It's just gotten a bit more busy. I've had a lot of cool opportunities. I got to do some really cool speaking engagements, some talk shows.

I got to meet Ellen and Jimmy Fallon ... Kind of just a little more attention. I got to go on the Apprentice and do some cool stuff with Trump. I got to play for POW - Protect Our Winters. It was cool to bring some awareness to climate change and to our environment, which I obviously care so much about.

Yeah, just kind of meeting different people.

I don't know, I'm a pretty humble, down-toearth person. I wouldn't say that everything has changed a lot, but I guess I've had a little bit more attention - and maybe some more Instagram followers.

Other than that I'm still the same Jaime Lou from Tahoe, keeping it real, giving thanks for all of the cool opportunities that I have.

mom's veggie garden and feeding eight alpaca, Anderson talked with us about what she's been up to, the season ahead, and what's behind her success.

F I R S T O F F, H O W A R E T H E A L PA C A S ?

They're amazing. My mom uses their wool to make really cool mittens and sweaters and beanies and alpaca wool accessories.

They're a little bit shy. They don't really like to be pet, but they'll come over and give you kisses if they like you. And they're so sweet.

BA S E D O N YO U R I N S TAG R A M I T 'S L O O K S L I K E YO U ' V E B E E N B U S Y. W H AT H AV E YO U B E E N U P T O ?

I've been having so much fun. I got to do some cool events in the summer time. I hosted the Go Pro Mountain Games in Vail (Colorado). I went to Summer X Games. Then I was in New York for some Oakley events. They have one of the biggest women's races in the world in central park. I did that - my first 10K. I got to spend a little time in Tahoe. I did Wanderlust - the yoga event - a little bit of camping, little bit of exploring. Then I went shredding. I went to Dubai for some work stuff and to check to out the city, then flew right to New Zealand to do the first World Cup of the year, which was awesome - really fun, really beautiful. New Zealand is one of my favorite places on the planet.

I spent three weeks in Austraila snowboarding at Perisher.

It was super fun; they have one of the best parks in the world. Vail actually just bought Perisher, so they're even stepping it up more.

Jamie Anderson grabs a selfie between park sessions at Perisher Ski Resort in Austrailia this summer. opposite page:

Jamie Anderson slides a box feature at Copper Mountain Resort during Olympic Trials in 2013.

W I T H A L L T H AT T R AV E L , H AV E YO U H A D T I M E TO U N W I N D ?

Kind of, it's been so much moving around, but I've been pretty good trying to chill out when I can and where I can.

I hung out with some kangaroos, and did some exploring, and then spent two weeks in Bali, surfing and kind of unwinding -eating some good food checking out the culture. I've never been to Indonesia so I was definitely stoked to go somewhere warm and just kind of chill out, try to surf.

Being here at the farm now is so good, eating out of the garden, hangin out with the alpaca, spending time with my mom, which I don't get to do much any more. So it's been a real treat.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: JAMIE ANDERSON

YO U ' V E WON X G A M E S, T H E DEW TOUR AND BURTON OPEN A BUNCH OF TIMES, THE GOLD I N S O C H I . W H AT 'S L E F T TO ACCOMPLISH? I don't know. I guess I'm just inspired to progress with everything I'm doing. I really love snowboarding. I love the opportunities it's been able to bring me. Combining that with yoga and mountain biking, hiking and some other stuff I love, I just feel like they all go hand-inhand. Definitely snowboarding and being on the mountain is where I feel the most connected. It brings me so much joy. I've been really passionate about it since I was 10 years old. So it's pretty crazy to say that I've been snowboarding for 15 years and have done well in a lot of events. But I'm still inspired to progress and do more and kind of lead they way of women's snowboarding.

A L L O F T H AT S U C C E S S W I T H O U T A F U L LT I M E C OAC H , YO U ' V E M A D E I T L O O K E A S Y. H OW D O YO U D O I T ?

I guess I'm pretty mellow. The only coaches I've ever had were on the Sierra-at-Tahoe team. That was till I was about 14 or 15, then I just kind of road with the boys, rode with my friends and learned along the way.

Now I'm actually thinking about working with Brady Gunsch again, the coach from Sierra, and bringing him to the Dew Tour and the X Games, and just working with him on some stuff. Because now I'm really pushing my level of riding and wanting to learn bigger tricks and do different things.

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WHY ADD A COACH NOW? I think it can definitely help to have the support of a coach. I think there's a time and place. It gets a little bit crazy when everyone at a contest has like two coaches on their case. But I kind of feel a little bit lonely now. I'm like 'shit, maybe I need a coach in my life.' So I thought it would be really cool to go back to the roots and someone that I trust and I've known for a long time ... I can be pretty casual most of the time, which is good and who I am, but I want to see what I'm really capable of if I focus my energy and set bigger goals and work hard.

AT C O N T E S T S YO U T E N D TO LO OK L I K E YO U ' R E J U ST O U T T H E R E H AV I N G F U N. W H AT 'S YO U R A P P ROAC H? I try to relax. I try to chill, do a lot of yoga, visualize, stay calm, have fun and enjoy it. It's such a privilege to snowboard and do these sports and get to go do different mountains all over the world. I don't want to stress. I don't want to freak out. I want to enjoy what I'm able to do. It's so much more fun when you're having fun.

D O YO U E V E R ST R E S S? Definitely. It's kind of a part of the game. It's been a fun challenge because it's ever changing.

Some days you feel great. Some days you feel a little more stressed or maybe not as solid on your board. It's part of it. Life's a roller coaster.

Especially being a female athlete I think we're dealing with even more of the emotional body.

But it's fun to be able to play with nerves. I mean, I always get nervous at events but it's kind of what keeps you going.

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Jamie Anderson grabbing selfies and snowboards in the air above Perisher Ski Resort in Australia this summer. opposite page: She may be one of snowboarding's most dominant athletes, but she's also still just Jamie Lou from Tahoe.

Anderson spent part of last summer in her home town hanging out with friends at Angora Lake.

YO U ' R E A H U G E YO G A A DVO CAT E . W H AT R O L E H A S YO G A P L AY E D F O R YO U I N M A N AG I N G T H AT S T R E S S ?

Yoga has been awesome in my life. Snowboarding is quite impactful and kind of gnarly on the body. It can be really stressful at times.

I've found that yoga has really helped me counter balance the physical, spiritual ... every aspect of it.

I probably started doing yoga when I was a teenager - like 18 or 19. Just the whole philosophy and lifestyle and really having a practice; it can be anything like meditating or sending out prayers or taking some time for yourself. I think it's something everyone can benefit from living in the crazy world we live in. But for me in competitive snowboarding it's definitely been really, really, helpful.

H O W D O YO U V I E W T H E S TAT E O F WOMEN'S SNOWBOARDING WITH YO U N G E R G I R L S L I K E C H LOE K I M BURSTING ON TO THE SCENE? It's awesome. I mean there are so many talented girls and it's been so cool to watch everyone evolve. Chloe Kim, for sure, she's one of my favorite young-buck shredders. I think she's got the best style.

It's just fun to watch.

There's so many cool girl riders. And it's so fun to see that it's not just the crazy big tricks. It's actually a lot of style and a lot of integrity that goes into it. It's cool too that all the girls are really feminine and really beautiful. You don't see that in a lot of sports. I think it's pretty cool that we can all do whatever we want. We don't have to be afraid of being around the boys.

It's definitely this new generation and it's such a privilege. I know that when my mom was in school she wasn't able to do sports at all. It wasn't really even something people cared about. It's definitely taken a huge turn and I think it's changed and its helped a lot of women's lives. I'm so thankful I get to be an athlete for the time being.

WHY SLOPESTYLE OVER HALFPIPE? It's really creative and fun and different. It's a different course on every mountain. It kind of brings out a little more personality. I think that's why it was such a good showing at the Olympics. It's really light. It's really fun and creative, just totally different than halfpipe.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: JAMIE ANDERSON

W H Y CA L L TA H O E H O M E ?

Because it is home - born and raised. Just have a lot of heart and soul there, my family is still there, most of my siblings. My dad has a cabin up by Sierra. It's just a really, really, special place on the planet. I love the lake and I love the rivers. I love the people. It's just nice to go home and recharge in a really pristine place.

WITH SO MANY OPTIONS IN T H E TA H O E BA S I N, W H AT I S I T A B O U T S I E R R A - A T-T A H O E T H AT M A K E S I T YO U R H O M E M O U N TA I N ?

Because I grew up in Meyers and Sierra was my very first sponsor and really helped pave the way of my competitive snowboarding. (They) paid for things when I wasn't able to do it. My coach, Brady Gunsch, and John Rice, the general manager - they're filled with heart and soul and that mountain is all about family and community.

" I T RY TO CHILL, DO A LOT OF YO G A , VISUALIZE, S TAY CALM, H AV E FUN AND E N J O Y I T. "

It's really, really, special to have a resort that's so open hearted and kind. I love it. The energy there is magic. My dad has a cabin there right near the mountain. It's home. Always has been always will be.

W H AT 'S I N S TO R E F O R YO U T H I S S E A S O N ? W H AT A R E YO U L O O K I N G FORWARD TO? I think it's going to be awesome. I'm really stoked to shred and not do as many events. I'm going to do a couple major ones like X Games, Dew Tour and the Open, and then I'm going to spend a lot of time capturing content - filming and shooting photos, going to places on my bucket list, like Revelstoke. I want to go to Japan and I want to spend some time in Switzerland and kind of just follow the snow.

I'm in North America. I'm going to have a snowmobile in Tahoe or Whistler, and just work hard, play hard, get some good shots for my video part.

I'm working on a project now with Full Moon Films. It's mostly backcountry stuff with the girls from Whistler. I got to go to Alaska last year for a couple of weeks and film in the backcountry, go heli-boarding. It was definitely a mind-blowing experience. I definitely want to do a lot more this winter.

GIVING BACK As much as it's about snowboarding, for Jamie Anderson it's also about giving back through a host of causes, including her Jamie Anderson Foundation.

"I wanted to find a way to help give back to the younger generation, and the kids that aren't able to afford snowsports," she said of her inspiration. "I come from a big family and know how challenging it was for my parents to support me."

She said her home mountain of Sierra-at-Tahoe was a big supporter of her early career and helped make her success possible. Now it's something she's passionate about passing on.

"It started with just product and moving equipment, and now I've been able to raise some money and actually help financially support the kids to do more events and travel."

She's also been an advocate for Protect Our Winters and other organizations.

PHOTO: KARI ROWE

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STARRING

LAKE TAHOE & TRUCKEE

STORY BY

MATTHEW RENDA

A look back at the 100-year history of interaction between Truckee/Tahoe and feature film ABOVE RIGHT: Robert Mitchum and Jane Greer exchange hardboiled banter characteristic of the noir era during a scene of "Out of the Past."

Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay can be seen extending in the background.

ABOVE LEFT: Charlie Chaplin poses in front of the cameras in the Donner Pass area as he shoots his famed film “The Gold Rush.”

OPPOSITE PAGE: Many critics say "The Gold Rush" starring Charlie Chaplin, seen here between takes at Donner Summit, is one of the greatest films ever made.

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ake Tahoe represents different things for different people. Most consider it an astonishing symbol of the power of nature’s beauty. Others perceive it as a rich and teeming ecosystem, or a fragile piece of serene purity that needs fierce and vigilant protect. For others, Lake Tahoe is a recreational mecca, a prime spot for fishing, an invitation to water ski — the Jewel of the Sierra.

Yet for cinephiles, or people who love movies, Lake Tahoe is the watery grave of Fredo Corleone.

That’s right, the second son of Vito Corleone, the feckless one whose weakness for womanizing renders him unfit to serve as the head of the family, is floating in the depths of Lake Tahoe for evermore.

If you don’t know what I am talking about, first of all, I apologize for the spoilers, and second, you need to revisit your DVD queue and push “The Godfather: Part II” to the top. Arguably the greatest film ever made at Lake Tahoe (and arguably one of the greatest films ever made anywhere), the sequel to the original is just one of many feature-length films to use the picturesque Truckee/Tahoe region as a shooting location.

PHOTOS: WARNER PHOTO: XXXXXX BROS.

The

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The following is a Top Ten list of picks from author Matthew Renda of the best films shot in the Truckee/Tahoe area:

1 There have been more than 120 films shot in the region over the past 100 years, starting not long after the turn of the 20th century, when cinema as an artistic medium was introduced to the world.

“Lake Tahoe’s proximity to Los Angeles is a big plus,” says Mark McLaughlin, a Truckee-Tahoe-Sierra historian and author. “But really, what drew film crews was the region’s natural beauty. Donner Pass, Lake Tahoe provide good scenery for the early movies.”

ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF FILM

A largely forgotten film, “Goodbye Summer,” starring notable silent film-era actor Antonio Moreno, was shot in Truckee in 1914, and may be the first instance of the region’s apotheosis to the Silver Screen.

As early as 1915, William J. Kerrigan, a famed director during the silent era who also played dashing lead roles in assorted films before retiring to a life of ease, shot three silent short films using Lake Tahoe as the scenic backdrop, again signaling the beginning of an era.

An assorted smattering of silent-era features ensued. When looking back at the list of films using Truckee/Tahoe as a location, the overwhelming majority fall between 1922 and 1936. A confluence of reasons account for the glut of film crews descending upon the Northern Sierra, but according to McLaughlin, the primary cause was the ease of access presented by the railroad.

“Beginning in 1895, coming up to the mountains during the winter was more popular, due to the snowball express trains that could take residents of the Bay Area to the mountains on Friday night and have them back home on Sunday,” he said. “For movie producers specifically, if you needed to shoot scenes that were winter-like, Truckee was an ideal place.”

One of the early film pioneers to make use of Truckee was Buster Keaton. While lesser known than Charlie Chaplin, Keaton combined his innovative brand of physical comedy with his characteristic deadpan expressions to fashion an indelible imprint on American cinema.

Performing his own stunts, many of which were dangerous for the time, Keaton also pioneered action sequences and chase scenes that are a lasting part of the cinematic lexicon. The American Film Institute ranks Keaton at 21 in its list of American Male Screen Legends.

Keaton’s initial cinematic foray into the Northern Sierra came with a short film “The Frozen North” in 1922. Keaton was also a writer/director of “Our Hospitality,” a satire of the Hatfield-McCoy feud, much of which was shot in and around Truckee in 1923.

He returned to the region in 1924 to film “The Navigator,” which would prove to be Keaton’s largest commercial success, mostly due to the elaborate stunts. He nearly drowned in the Truckee River while performing an elaborate stunt for one of the film’s climatic sequences.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: SUGAR BOWL SKI RESORT

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THE GODFATHER, PART II (1974) The narrative lines that toggle back and forth between a father and a son and their parallel struggles to flourish in a hostile environment are tremendously innovative. Director Francis Ford Coppola uses his broodingly paced and impeccably shot scenes to explore his familiar themes of crime, its surprisingly moral complexity and its inevitable repercussions. While ostensibly about the mafia, perhaps no American film explores the intricacies of the American family, particularly in a generational context.

The film was awarded an Oscar for Best Picture, and Robert De Niro earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for playing Vito Corleone, a character that earned Marlon Brando an Oscar two years prior.

While Al Pacino was nominated for a Best Actor Award, he ultimately lost to Art Carney. The decision is now widely regarded as a rather characteristic blunder of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, as Pacino’s performance is thought by many to be one of the greatest of all time. Coppola did win for Best Director.

THE GOLD RUSH (1925) At the time, it was the most expensive comedy of the silent-film era. Like most of Charlie Chaplin’s masterpieces, labeling it a comedy belies how deftly and genuinely the master director deals the human condition. In this silent-era film, Chaplin deals with the themes of ambition, hunger for riches, the lengths to which people will go to secure fortune, romance, and the creation of the American West. New York Times critic Mordaunt Hall wrote in 1925 that the film contained “streaks of poetry, pathos, tenderness, linked with brusqueness and boisterousness.” Contemporary critic Jeff Vance argues that The Gold Rush was the greatest film - comedy or drama - of the silent film era, due to the inimitable comedic sequences combined with the character-driven plot. While Chaplin would go on to complete other silent-era masterpieces such as “City Lights,” “Modern Times” and “The Great Dictator,” he retained a fondness for the film. “This is the film I want to be remembered by,” he said.

OUT OF THE PAST (1947) This movie starring such heavyweights as Robert Mitchum, Jane Greer and Kirk Douglass is perhaps the most underrated film noir of all time. From the opening scene at a gas station of Bridgeport, to the stunning shots of Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay, the creative use of the Northern Sierra as a backdrop to the familiar hardboiled themes of film noir remains provocative to this day. Usually set in moodily lit urban scenes drenched in streetlight TAHOE MAGAZINE

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shadows and the horizontal bars of light splayed by Venetian blinds, Director Jacques Tourner uses the same brooding tropes in the stunning scenery of the Sierra to great effect. Mitchum is superb as the tangled private eye, Douglas is great as a rich crook, and Greer gives a great performance as the requisite femme fatale.

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INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM (1984) The second installment of the beloved Indian Jones series had certain scenes shot in the American River canyon, just on the other side of the Lake Tahoe Basin. After Indiana, and his sidekick, Short Round, escape from a crashing plane on an inflatable raft in the “Himalayas,” they must navigate some intense rapids before reaching temporary safety. Those rafting scenes were partly shot on the American River and partly on the Tuolomne River, in Yosemite National Park. Not the best of the Indiana Jones series — that distinction belongs to “Raiders of the Lost Ark” — it still bears all the hallmarks of a tightly-paced, suspense-laden Steven Speilberg adventure film. Inaccurate portrayals of India and the conflation of Hinduism with the Aztec culture’s propensity for graphic human sacrifice aside, the movie remains a classic of its era.

HER (2013) Of the contemporary films with a significant portion of its running time set in Truckee/ Tahoe, this one is the best, by far. While the premise of a man developing a deep romantic relationship with a computer operating system seems both obvious and too bizarre to bring off, Writer/Director Spike Jonze succeeds to an astonishing degree. He gets a gigantic performance from Joaquin Phoenix, and Scarlett Johansson — despite only providing a voice — does so with such verve that its still a wonder she wasn’t rewarded with a trip to the Oscars. While only a slender portion of the film about a lonely, introverted man was filmed at Sugar Bowl and Donner Pass, it is a crucial part of the film, and for those who have spent time around that area, the familiar terrain is unmistakable.

A PLACE IN THE SUN (1951) Elizabeth Taylor, at the peak of her craft, and Montgomery Clift, one of the great American actors, team up for this sizzling and devastating romance. In the film, Lake Tahoe is supposed to resemble a lake set in upstate New York, where the beautiful people spend their summers sojourning amid their wealth, luxury and general self-regard. Taylor is flawless in her embodiment of a young, beautiful scion of the elite, and Clift is excellent as well as the brooding upstart young man intent on upward mobility through the firm social strata of his era.

His yearning for the good life and for Taylor naturally is flecked with fatalism and murder. This gem from the Golden Era of Hollywood is a can’t-miss film. It is loosely based on the novel “An American Tragedy”

by Theodore Dreiser, which is even better.

INTO THE WILD (2007) This film would be ranked much higher if not for the fact that only a snippet of footage shot at Lake Tahoe made the final film. It was filmed from a helicopter and depicted a particular point when Christopher McCandless, played by Emile Hirsch, was hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. Beverly WINTER 2015 - 16

Montgomery Clift is driving a speedboat with Elizabeth Taylor (or likely her stunt double) skimming the waters of Lake Tahoe during a scene for “A Place in the Sun,” shot in 1951.

Michael Corleone, played here by Al Pacino, sits at his desk as he tries to hatch business deals with corrupt politicians during a scene from “The Godfather: Part II.” Through the window, the viewer can see the distinctive forest of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

A HOLLYWOOD CLASSIC: ‘THE GOLD RUSH’

While natural rivals, Chaplin and Keaton were also friends, and legend has it that Keaton influenced Chaplin’s decision to choose the Donner Pass area as the location for his most ambitious film project to date — “The Gold Rush,” regarding by critics as one of the greatest films in the history of cinema.

Chaplin uses Truckee as the stand-in for the Yukon during Klondike Gold Rush.

Chaplin’s seminal film features a lone prospector, played by Chaplin in his wellknown Little Tramp character. The film’s iconic opening sequence, where a throng of desperate miners scuttle up a steep and snowy mountain pass as they shuffle slowly toward what they hope is pay-dirt, was filmed at Chilkoot Pass in modern-day Sugar Bowl Resort on Donner Summit.

More than 600 extras were brought up to the mountains outside of Truckee in the winter of 1924-1925 to complete what film critic Jeff Vance deemed “the most spectacular image of silent-film comedy.” The ensuing scenes, which follow the Little Tramp’s adventures as he seeks fortune and fame, include a sequence where Chaplin’s character and his traveling companion are forced to seek shelter amid a blizzard. Together, they find temporary harbor in a small cabin, in which they are confined for the entire winter season as they struggle on the brink of starvation.

The echoes of the Donner Party, of which Chaplin professed more than a passing interest, are clear. How Chaplin manages to extract comedy out of such a situation is a thing to behold, rather than be explained here. Suffice it to say, he succeeds. The American Film Institute names “The Gold Rush” one of the 100 greatest films of all time.

Soon, Truckee/Tahoe witnessed a strong infusion of filmmakers and Hollywood stars into region, which continued on through the 1930s after dialogue was introduced into filmmaking. Legends of the Silver Screen such as Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart, Greta Garbo and Elizabeth Taylor became part of local lore as they stayed in and frequented local establishments during their shooing schedule.

PHOTOS: PARAMOUNT PICTURES

Lewis, director of the Placer-Lake Tahoe Film Office, said the shot isn’t taken on the actual PCT. Sean Penn, who directed Into the Wild, was meticulous about shooting on location in each of the places McCandless visited in his itinerant wanderings that led to his unfortunate demise in the Alaskan wilderness.

Based on the book by the great Jon Krakauer, Penn’s film does both the book and McCandless’ life justice.

While much of the commentary has inanely focused on McCandless’ lack of preparation for his Alaskan adventure, the film deftly shows that incandescent life of Alexander Supertramp was about so much more than how it ended.

BIG-NAME STARS IN THE SEVENTIES, EIGHTIEs & NINETIES

However, after World War II, when much of the railroad infrastructure was torn up and used as scrap metal, the steady stream of movies shot in Truckee/Tahoe dried into a trickle.

Beverly Lewis, director of the Placer-Lake Tahoe Film Office, said one probable factor is the rise of the highway system and automobiles as a replacement for the railway system.

“Hollywood’s first choice now (for mountain or winter scenes) is Big Bear or Mammoth because the drive is a little easier,” she said.

This accounts for why after 1938, Tahoe/Truckee served as a location only once every couple of years, sometimes a couple of times a decade, rather than four or five a year.

Nevertheless, what the region lacked in quantity of films produced, it made up for in quality.

“Out of the Past,” staring Robert Mitchum, Jane Greer and Kirk Douglas, was shot in and around Lake Tahoe in 1946. The film is a chiaroscuro-shaded slice of quintessential Hollywood film noir, replete with strong but terse private detectives, distressed damsels with troubled pasts and sinister tycoons making their crimes pay for sprawling estates at Lake Tahoe. The film features sweeping shots of the oft-photographed Emerald Bay. Then of course came “The Godfather: Part II.” Director Francis Ford Coppola selected the Fleur du Lac, an expansive estate formerly owned by Henry Kaiser on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore, for a location shoot long critical sequences for the film. A bevy of critics argue “The Godfather: Part II,” released in 1974, is actually superior to the original, which is also hailed as one of the greatest films in cinematic history.

The film’s grandiose with Michael Corleone celebrating the first communion of his son while attempting to cut deals with corrupt Nevada senators and stave off challenges to his protection racket in New York is offset by the serene setting of Lake Tahoe’s calm and clear waters, which serve to open and close the classic film.

Since, several movies have used the Truckee/Tahoe region as a backdrop, including huge commercial hits such as “Indian Jones and the Temple of Doom” (1984), starring Harrison Ford; “Misery” (1990), featuring Kathy Bates in a chilling Academy Award-winning role; “True Lies” (1994), starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis; and “The Bodyguard” (1992), starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner; and “Jack Frost” (1998), starring Michael Keaton and Kelly Preston.

RECENT HISTORYs

Despite these big-name films and their Sierra success, Lewis said the Truckee/Tahoe region has gone through a recent spate of trouble attracting filmmakers due to economic, rather than geographic, reasons.

Beginning about 20 years ago, Canada starting providing significant tax incentives to production companies, meaning filmmakers could save enormous amounts of money by shifting locations to north of the border.

“For a while, Canada was the only game in town, but they were so wildly successful that about 40 states adopted similar incentives,” Lewis said.

The state of California was slow to adopt the practice and lost not only business, but the type of exposure that films can lend to its unique and enthralling geography.

However, in recent years, the California State Legislature ratified similar incentives for film, television and media production and Truckee/Tahoe has reaped the rewards.

“Into the Wild” (2007), starring Emile Hirsch; Smokin’ Aces (2007), starring Jeremy Piven, Ben Affleck and a slew of other well-known actors; and “Her” (2013), starring Joaquin Phoenix and Scarlett Johansson, are examples of studios' recently renewed willingness to return to the region. The region has also hosted solid efforts from independent cinema, including an underrated thriller starring Tilda Swinton, “The Deep End” (2001), and the recently released “Last Weekend” (2014).

These commercially successful films and small independent vehicles demonstrate that location scouts in Hollywood, cinematographers and directors alike will continue to seek out Truckee/Tahoe’s dazzling terrain as an ideal backdrop for their stories. Whether the craftsmen and women of cinema will be able to match the artistic achievements of some of the greats that have been shot within the confines of the Northern Sierra is another question altogether.

But judging by both the quantity and quality of the fare the region has produced so far, they got work to do.

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TRUE LIES (1994) “You’re fired,” says Harry Tasker as he fires a Harrier missile from which the stereotypically Arabic villain is dangling. It is these type of corny one-liners for which Arnold Schwarzenegger is at once revered and reviled. But you know what? “True Lies” is an entertaining movie that delivers what it promises. Directed by James Cameron (yes, the same man who directed Schwarzenegger in “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” as well as Oscar winners “Titanic” and “Avatar”), the movie centers on a marriage that is deteriorating due to general boredom, but is resuscitated, when Helen Tasker, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, realizes her husband is not merely a drab salesman, but a terrorist hunting, bad-ass secret agent. It is the story’s surprising heart (and an unlikely hilarious turn from Tom Arnold, of all people) that rescues this film from being another run-of-the-mill mindless action flick. That and the fact Arnold was still at his peak as arguably Hollywood’s greatest ever action hero. This movie cannot be rightfully included in the ranks of the films at the top of this list, but it was entertaining, fun and definitely worth the time investment.

THE BODYGUARD (1992) Ditto for this film as far as its aspirations for cinematic greatness. But in its way, the romantic thriller starring Kevin Coster as an ex-Secret Service agent hired to protect a famous Whitney Houston, who pretty much plays herself, is thoroughly satisfactory. There is a nice little chase seen that takes place at Fallen Leaf Lake. This move may be remembered more, however, for its soundtrack and Houston’s powerful rendition of “I Will Always Love You,” originally written and sung by — wait for it — Dolly Parton, than any cinematic achievement.

THE NAVIGATOR (1924) Buster Keaton is not as well known as Charlie Chaplin, but he is just as crucial to the development of cinema and the modern concept of comedy. A innovator in film stunts, Jackie Chan perhaps unwittingly owes much to the deadpan actor known as “The Great Stone Face.”

“The Navigator” is on this list because it was filmed in Truckee. This is not to say it’s a poor film. In fact, it’s excellent. But it caters to devout cinephiles or devoted local historians rather than your casual movie-goer.

That said, everyone can better enjoy Keaton’s most famous movie, “The General,” which is not only a classic of the silent era, but an American classic. The American Film Institute recently rated it at 18 on its 100 Greatest American Films list. It’s that good folks.

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This luxury village is home to some of the wealthiest people in the world. When you drive through, take Lakeshore Boulevard to view the large estates that border the lake on its northeast side. Only one mile from the casinos, and 30 miles from Reno and Carson City, Incline Village offers its own mountain in Diamond Peak and a number of winter athletic training hot spots — not to mention exclusive beaches that, even in the winter, afford beautiful views of the lake.

KINGS BEACH

Just west of Incline Village, Kings Beach sits atop Lake Tahoe.

With easy access to Northstar, the casinos and the lake, Kings Beach truly lives up to its name. And it’s only going to get better.

With $48 million in improvements

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scheduled for the downtown corridor, the future of Kings Beach will see easy access for visitors between the shopping areas and recreation areas, all of which serve as the perfect Kings Beach venue for the upcoming 32nd annual SnowFest!

NORTHSTAR

Just north of Kings Beach on Highway 267, halfway between Truckee and the lake, Northstar is a growing resort area that is filled with summertime activities.

Best known for its shopping — jewelry, kids clothing, outdoor gear, you name it — its winter terrain park and its family friendly ski trails, Northstar is perfect for an afternoon with the kids. Also home to the $300 million Ritz Carlton, Lake Tahoe and a multi-million redeveloped base area, Northstar will play host to a number of fun festivals and events year-round.

TRUCKEE

The town of Truckee is the gateway to the lake. With a rich history of saloons, gunslingers and other wild west fantasies,

region. It’s because all those little communities surrounding the lake — from the 25,000 people in South Lake Tahoe to the 250 in Carnelian Bay — have unique local identities they do not want to lose. This guide will help you understand where you are, as you tour beautiful Lake Tahoe. it works hard to keep its local charm while playing host to the thousands of guests who stay in our area each year.

With nearby Donner State Memorial Park and a downtown shopping area, Truckee can entertain just about anyone with some time on his or her hands. With a rich downtown shopping corridor and easy access to, among others, Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort and the marvel that is the Donner Summit backcountry, Truckee’s winter playground is at your fingertips.

SQUAW VALLEY

Halfway between Truckee and the lake on Highway 89, Squaw Valley is a world-recognized ski resort and home of the 1960 Winter Olympics. It’s also home to a great party to kick off SnowFest!

The Tram Car takes visitors up to the top of the mountain to enjoy spectacular views and ice skating. The base area provides shopping and family activities, and plenty of parking. Speaking of Olympics, the mountain is home to some of the world’s best winter athletes, including gold medalist and America’s sweetheart, Julia Mancuso.

ALPINE MEADOWS

Just a couple miles south of Squaw, accessible to and from Squaw via the Squaw/Alpine Express shuttle, Alpine Meadows is a locals’ favorite offering a diverse selection of terrain and a laid back atmosphere.

Renowned for optimal spring skiing conditions, guest will be sure to learn a bit about “Cornology” at Alpine — what they call the science of skiing spring snow and one of the reasons Alpine has some of the best spring skiing in the region.

TAHOE CITY

On the northwest side of the lake, Tahoe City is a perfect little hamlet for visitors to enjoy the quiet of the lake while having plenty of entertainment options close by. With good restaurants and easy access to businesses and the picturesque walk along Commons Beach, Tahoe City has everything you need.

And this is where SnowFest! started, way back in 1981.

Celebrate 32 years of this true community event this March in TC, as the locals call it.

HOMEWOOD

On the West Shore just south of Tahoe City lies Homewood, a small winter ski resort that boasts one of the best lake views in the entire basin. Homewood is one of the most beautiful places to stay, as it is surrounded by old-growth elm and pine trees, and sits just yards from the lake. And if you get a chance, talk to some of the locals — they are the definition of “tight-knit community,” and you might learn a thing or two from them, especially about our curious bear population.

SAND HARBOR With sandy beaches, boat launches, picnic spots and access to world-class biking, hiking and fishing, Sand Harbor is one of the most popular summer spots on the lake. But that doesn’t mean it’s not full of plenty of winter adventures.

Be sure to pack your snowshoes or crosscountry skis, as you can catch the Flume Trail and the Tahoe Rim Trail nearby, hit the trails down the road from Spooner Lake and explore the backcountry between Lake Tahoe and Carson City.

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The largest of the communities around Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe — its only city — has a large variety of entertainment options.

The area’s biggest casinos bring in the area’s biggest act numbers— from Maroon 5 to Brad Paisley to Los Lobos and the Beach Boys — so if nightlife is what you’re looking for, make a trip to South Lake. Did we mention Heavenly Mountain Resort is there too? South Lake Tahoe has it all.

Just south of South Lake Tahoe, Meyers is a funky town that is home to many locals.

If you’re looking for a trip off the beaten path, try lunch or dinner in Meyers, and come back telling stories about the “real” Tahoe.

KIRKWOOD

About 35 miles from South Lake Tahoe, on a two-lane road that weaves over two mountain passes, lies Kirkwood Mountain Resort. It may be remote, but in this solitary horseshoe canyon, climate and geography conspire to create one of the purest, most authentic, big-mountain ski experiences in North America.

GLENBROOK HEAVENLY

Heavenly Village offers shopping selections, great food and even a cinema for the whole family to enjoy. The worldfamous gondola will take you to gorgeous winter views of the lake and the snowshoe hike back to town, should you try it, is perfect for those who are in shape — or want to be.

ZEPHYR COVE

Located on the southeast short of the lake, Zephyr Cove is a historic area.

Businesses nearby offer a slew of fun activities, and Zephyr Cove Resort offers perhaps the best line of snowmobile tours in the region, for people who need a bit more horsepower in their winter fun.

On the northeast shore of Lake Tahoe, historic Glenbrook epitomizes the idea of rural and lake. Only 150 acres of the town have been developed, leaving homeowners and visitors with undisturbed serenity and unique recreational opportunities.

MEEKS BAY

This small little neighborhood on the West Shore offers luxurious views of the lake, and great access to nearby state parks.

Meeks Bay has its own fire station, one of the few developments other than homes in this classic Tahoe vacation spot.

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BRING THE PAST TO LIFE Sparkling new, longawaited museum honoring Sierra Nevada history awaits your visit

BY MARGARET MORAN

PHOTO: MARGARET MORAN

TO GO WEST TO CALIFORNIA TODAY, one can drive on Interstate 80 - a much easier mode of travel than used by early settlers, as showcased in the region's newest museum.

Using ox-drawn covered wagons, for instance, a group of 87 family members and friends departed from Springfield, Ill., in April 1846 to make the 2,500-mile journey to California in search of opportunities.

During their trip out West, the group which is known today as the Donner Party - encountered plains, searing deserts and rugged mountains in part due to taking a new and supposed shortcut to California called Hastings Cutoff.

However, the cutoff actually added miles and hardships to the group's trek, so by the time the party reached the Sierra Nevada later that fall, the pass was blocked by snow.

Trapped, most of the group settled near Donner Lake, riding out much of the 194647 winter that historical accounts state was particularly harsh before help could arrive.

Of the 87 pioneers who started the journey, only 46 survived - some of whom, accounts claim, resorted to cannibalism to live.

This part of Sierra Nevada history, along with many others, has a place in present day inside the brand-new Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center, where exhibits and artifacts are on display.

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The visitor center located at Donner Memorial State Park in Truckee, just east of Donner Lake, officially opened to the public in June 2015 - an event roughly 20 years in the making.

"With the opening of this visitor center, we're now going to ensure that all visitors, our children, future generations will continue to learn of this place, of the people and the stories of the people," said Lisa Mangat, director of California State Parks.

The center's theme is "Crossing Barriers Changes Lives." Exhibits include displays on the Donner Party, regional Native American history, construction of the transcontinental railroad through the Sierra

by Chinese workers, and development of various roadways over Donner Pass, including the Lincoln Highway and Interstate 80.

"It gives one the sense of struggles people faced as they made their way over what we know as Donner Pass," said Don Schmidt, a retired supervising ranger at Donner Memorial State Park. "They were forced to interact with cold rivers, vertical granite rock and environmental extremes to trade, hunt, travel or search for a better way of life in California."

Helping bring those hardships to life are interactive features incorporated into the facility, including a multipurpose theater, films and touchscreen kiosks.

“ IN SCHOOL THEY

TAUGHT US THE STORIES, AND WE WOULD READ ABOUT THEM IN BOOKS, BUT HERE YOU CAN ACTUALLY TOUCH AND SEE IT. ” JOHN LEBLANC, NOVATO, CALIF.

"In school they taught us the stories, and we would read about them in books, but here you can actually touch and see it," said John LeBlanc, of Novato, Calif., as he toured the facility shortly after it opened this past summer.

Bob Popp, of Lincoln, Calif., was also among the first members of the public to tour the inside of the $9.6 million, 9,400-square-foot visitor center.

"I think it's really nice," he said. "... At last they are honoring the Chinese and the Washoe Indians, which I never did see at the old place, so that kind of impressed me a little bit. There's more honors going around to everybody."

'A LABOR OF LOVE'

Originally, in 1996, the project proposed to upgrade the 1962 Emigrant Trail Museum's static,

above:

Members of the public tour Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center's exhibits, including this one on the Washoe people. opposite page: The Pioneer Memorial is dedicated to the pioneers who crossed the Sierra on their way to the West, including the Donner Party.

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PHOTOS: MARGARET MORAN

outdated exhibits and refurbish the building, according to California State Parks.

Yet, due to a bevy of issues, state parks found it more cost effective to build a new museum.

Construction began mid-May 2011 - at a time when the California State Parks system was in the middle of its well-documented run of financial struggles - and concluded in summer 2013.

Various weather, design and other challenges delayed the facility from officially opening until 2015.

"This truly has been a labor of love," Mangat said. "It truly has taken a village. I wish I could say that state parks could do it alone - that's absolutely not the case. It took tremendous support for us to be here today."

With the opening of the Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center, the Emigrant Trail Museum building - which is located adjacent to the new facility - will be used for archival storage, training, and office and meeting room space.

Additional improvements to Donner Memorial State Park include a paved path to the Pioneer Memorial, which is dedicated to the pioneers who crossed the Sierra on their way to the west, including the Donner Party.

"This is your park," said Marilyn Linkem, Sierra District superintendent for State Parks.

"Remember that. This is your park. This belongs to you. It belongs to the people of California, so please come and enjoy it."

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CHECK IT OUT The Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center is located at 12593 Donner Pass Road in Truckee. It's open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Sunday, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Learn more by visiting bit.ly/1M5mYeE or calling 530-582-7892.

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EMERALD BAY

The classic "if you're going to do one thing at Lake Tahoe," Emerald Bay is a must-see any month of the year. The stunning site takes on an especially angelic air when the surrounding peaks are shrouded in newly fallen snow. Plus, the crowds thin in the winter, so you just might have it all to yourself. Emerald Bay is located along California State Route 89 at the southwest corner of the lake. From South Shore's state line, take U.S. Highway 50 west and make a right at Emerald Bay the "Y" onto State Route is one of Lake Tahoe's iconic 89. Emerald Bay is about 9 sights and well miles from there. From the worth the drive, North Shore, while traveling wherever you're coming from. west on California State Route 28, take a left at the "Wye" in Tahoe City onto Route 89 and head south along the West Shore. Emerald Bay can be found about 18 miles south of Tahoe City.

DONNER SUMMIT BRIDGE

Another iconic view, this time from outside of Truckee, the Donner Summit Bridge provides a view of Donner Lake that is one of the great visages of the West. Also known as Rainbow Bridge, the 241-foot curved bridge

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DAY TRIPPING

was opened in 1928 and still attracts visitors from around the world. Don't forget to bring a camera.

Donner Summit Bridge is located along Donner Pass Road west of Truckee. From Truckee, take Donner Pass Road/Old Highway 40 west for 9 miles, passing Donner Lake on your left, to reach the bridge. From the South Shore, the bridge is about 90 minutes away via car.

Five simple Sierra drives to spots across the TruckeeTahoe region worth seeing

As far as scenic downtown strolls go, Truckee has it dialed. The town's collection of shops, bars and restaurants provides enough entertainment to fill up a day or more.

The town has done well maintaining its historic feel while providing the modern amenities visitors demand. Truckee also boasts plenty of Wild West history, which you're sure to run into on any visit (the old Truckee Jail being just one historic must-see landmark). Visiting Donner Pass Road, between Spring and Bridge streets, is a good place to start on any Truckee visit.

BY ADAM JENSEN

OFTENTIMES, PEOPLE COME TO TRUCKEE and Lake Tahoe, find their spot and stick to it, returning again and again. It's a fine strategy, except for the fact there's so much to explore.

Here are a few day-trip ideas for when the roads are clear, the winter sky is blue and you're looking to find a bit of the unknown:

DOWNTOWN TRUCKEE

THE EAST SHORE

Doing a full lap around Lake Tahoe is on many visitors' to-do lists, but an abbreviated version of the trip can be accomplished by driving Nevada State Route

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TOP: A fresh coat of snow adds to Downtown Truckee's allure during the winter.

ABOVE: Donner Lake, northwest of Lake Tahoe, makes for a worthwhile day trip.

28 between Stateline and Incline Village along the East Shore.

The stretch of highway is Tahoe's equivalent of the Highway 1 drive along the California coast, providing glimpses of the leastdeveloped areas around the lake.

Just like Highway 1, you're bound to encounter slow traffic, so take it slow, stop to take pictures and soak up the awe-inspiring views on the Nevada side of the lake.

CAMP RICHARDSON

Just east of Emerald Bay on Tahoe's South Shore, this historic locale provides easy access to shoreline walks, a quick snowshoe trip or a cross-country ski workout. The Tallac Historic Site nearby also provides a glimpse into Lake Tahoe's silversoaked settlement history. After taking in some lake views and a maybe a little history, Camp Richardson's Beacon Bar & Grill will serve you a Rum Runner, one of Lake Tahoe's best-known libations, so be sure to have a spare driver handy. Camp Richardson is located along California State Route 89, 2.5 miles northeast of its intersection with U.S. Highway 50. It's about one hour south of Tahoe City by car.

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SOAK IT IN Hot springs in the RenoTahoe region offer warm respite from winter

Patrons enjoy the hot pool at Grover Hot Springs State Park. The pool frequently fills to capacity.

BY DYLAN SILVER

S

IERRA NEVADA WINTER WEATHER can be vicious. The snow can be wet and heavy, capable of soaking anyone who's in it through to the bone. The wind can bite like an invisible demon. Even on sunny days, the cold can be relentless. When it's at its worst, we all need somewhere to hide.

Hot springs in the Lake Tahoe-Truckee region are the perfect escape from winter weather. From fullservice spas to basic soaking pools, there are springs for everyone. Though most take a bit of a trip to get to from Lake Tahoe, the outing can be a fun way to experience the area.

GROVER HOT SPRINGS Just southeast of Lake Tahoe lies a scenic high desert valley actually called Hot Springs Valley. At the edge of the meadow is Grover Hot Springs State Park. Visitors can enjoy one of two pools: a hot mineral water pool and a colder swimming pool.

The place is popular among residents of Carson Valley and South Lake Tahoe locals who feel like making the 45-minute drive. Though there's camping in the summer, there are few winter accommodations in the area. The entry fee is $7, so it's not too difficult to get your money's worth on a day trip.

The pool frequently fills to capacity on weekends, so call ahead if you're going to head down on a Saturday or Sunday. Usually, if you do arrive and they're full, the wait is fairly short. Even without the springs, the drive through Hope Valley and the granite-lined Carson River canyon is beautiful. Bonus tip: Stop for an aftersoak slice of pie at the Hope Valley CafĂŠ & Market. MORE INFORMATION: PARKS.CA.GOV/BIT.LY/1N5JNS9

1862 DAVID WALLEY'S HOT SPRINGS RESORT

A wooden stairway allows visitors to see the source of hot water in Hot Spring Valley south of Lake Tahoe.

PHOTOS: DYLAN SILVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Tucked at the base of the eastern edge of the Sierra near Genoa, Nevada's oldest town, David Walley's resort is an institution. The 153-year-old retreat offers single-day services or multiple-day accommodations. In the early 1900s, the resort was known as a common stop for those traveling on the Emigrant Trail and Pony Express.

Now owned by Summerwinds Resort Services LLC and remodeled in 2013, the resort features five hot mineral spring-fed pools, an outdoor heated pool, a steam room and dry saunas. For diners, there's an 1862-themed restaurant and saloon. The landscaped grounds are built around lagoons fed by the warm-water springs.

A full day spa offers classic European facials, eye treatments and aromatherapy. For overnight stays, rooms with full or partial kitchens are available.

For even longer stays, the resort has a timeshare program. Or, for special events, Walley's has banquet and wedding services available.

MORE INFORMATION: 1862DAVIDWALLEYS RESORT.COM

CARSON HOT SPRINGS RESORT The water at Carson Hot Springs Resort flows out of the ground at 121 degrees. Supposedly, the water comes from more than 35,000 feet below the earth's surface, carrying minerals like sodium, sulfate, chloride, calcium and magnesium.

In the mid-1800s, Washoe Indians and

emigrants, many of whom were part of the Gold Rush, used the springs. By 1910, the resort had been established and celebrities of the Wild West were not uncommon guests.

During the prohibition, federal officers raided the resort, though they never found any evidence of liquor manufacturing.

Today, the resort is open to the public. Both public outdoor pools and indoor private pools are available on an hourly or daily basis. For frequent guests, there are punch cards for up to 100 visits.

MORE INFORMATION: CARSONHOT SPRINGSRESORT.COM

STEAMBOAT HOT SPRINGS A favorite warm spot in the Reno area, Steamboat Hot Springs has a long history, just like many

of the area's hot spots.

The first development at the site occurred in 1859 when guest rooms and a dance hall were built to entertain miners from nearby Virginia City.

Later, the hot springs was the site of a hospital.

Today, Steamboat acts as a healing center and spa. The water comes out of the ground at close to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

It's then cooled in holding tanks before being pumped into the outdoor tub and seven private indoor tubs.

In addition to the thermal baths, Steamboat offers a selection of spa services, including massage, sound therapy, mud wraps and yoga. There's a geothermal steam room or an infrared sauna for those who don't feel like getting wet.

MORE INFORMATION: STEAMBOAT SPRINGS.ORG TAHOE MAGAZINE

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OPEN AND UP AND SAY SPA Find a touch of heaven at these seven Tahoe-Truckee places for pampering

BY JENNY GOLDSMITH

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HINK ABOUT THE LAST time you really pampered yourself. The last time you splurged on a touch of "me-time" luxury. The last time you allowed yourself to truly escape from the daily grind of life.

If you have to rack your brain or leaf through the tired pages of your day-planner to come up with an answer, it's safe to say you're long overdue for some good-old-fashioned R&R. There are few things in life more beneficial and therapeutic to the mind, body and soul than a trip to the spa. An integral part of any long-term approach toward preventative care, spa treatments - like massages, body wraps, facials, aromatherapy oils, hot stone therapies, manicures and pedicures - can reduce stress, relieve pain, enhance sleep quality, lessen depression and anxiety, improve joint flexibility, boost the body's network of biological systems, and repair the condition of your largest and fastest-growing organ, the skin.

From extravagant weekend retreats to all-day pampering packages to basic massages or facials, Lake Tahoe has a range of spa options to help you relax, reboot, and renew your body's overall balance and harmony.

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STILLWATER SPA AT THE HYATT REGENCY LAKE TAHOE RESORT, INCLINE VILLAGE

WEBSITE: HYATTSTILLWATERSPA.COM PHONE: 775-886-6745

from top: Float your worries away at The Sanctuary in Kings Beach.

Stillwater Spa boasts a swim-in, swim-out feature at the Hyatt.

Nestled against the north-eastern shoreline of Lake Tahoe, Stillwater Spa sets the gold standard in luxurious The Ritzpampering. With a warm sophistication Carlton Spa, Lake Tahoe, and natural elegance, all 16 Tahoeoffers leisure themed treatment rooms overlook the and luxury. quintessential white-sand beaches of Incline Village, set against the vast stretch of deepblue water just beyond.

Treatments are personalized from head to toe, each service tailored to the individual guest in order to maximize overall health and wellness. Decompress with a deep tissue or sports massage after a day on the slopes, or unwind with the ultimate definition of comfort and relaxation with the Mother Nature Massage, designed for the expecting mother.

"We have created customized packages such as the Stillwater Retreat that include a full day of

pampering including a dry exfoliation, massage, facial, manicure and pedicure with a healthy lunch so our guests can truly rejuvenate and enjoy the benefits of our beautiful relaxation spaces," said Julie Orblych, assistant spa director.

THE SPA AT THE LANDING RESORT & SPA, SOUTH LAKE TAHOE WEBSITE: THELANDINGTAHOE.COM/SPA PHONE: 530-541-5263

Synonymous with tranquility, relaxation and ultimate luxury, The Spa at the Landing Resort in South Lake Tahoe is the perfect place to treat yourself, your partner, or your wedding party. Sip on a glass of sparkling wine and unwind in one of four state-of-the-art treatment rooms before taking advantage of the dry sauna, steam room, fitness center, and showers.

Experience the benefits of the spa's "Express Retreat Menu" or upgrade your pampering pleasures through a plethora of therapeutic offerings like their signature facial, which is personalized for all skin types and includes a double cleanse, exfoliation, extractions, plus two treatment masks to PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

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help renew, repair and treat any skin condition.

Additional treatments range from the Peak Recovery Massage designed to address athletic fatigue, strain or injury to the Prenatal Massage, specialized to enhance body function, tone, and comfort during pregnancy for both mother and child.

India. More than a mere belief system for treating illness, Ayurvedan oils, techniques and cleanses are designed to help people reach optimal healing by promoting balance of the body, mind, spirit and environment.

LIGHTHOUSE SPA, TAHOE CITY

THE SPA AT THE RITZCARLTON, LAKE TAHOE, NEAR NORTHSTAR

WEBSITE: LIGHTHOUSESPA.COM PHONE: 530-583-8100

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Tahoe City is the Lighthouse Spa, where guests can indulge and detoxify the mind, body and spirit. With 25 years of healing Tahoe locals and visitors, Lighthouse Spa practitioners will teach clients how to incorporate meditation practices, pranayama breathing exercises, aromatherapy and specific yoga postures specific to your personal body type and overall wellness goals.

"At Lighthouse we approach spiritual wellness with crystal energy which you'll see throughout the spa in all our treatment rooms, waiting area and retail offerings," said spa owner Sheila Barnett. "In addition to helping reduce stress, crystals strengthen your healing abilities and help you get grounded."

Body treatments at Lighthouse are inspired by the healing wisdom of Ayurveda - a 5,000-yearold system of natural healing derived from Ancient

WEBSITE: RITZCARLTON.COM PHONE: 530-562-3030

Indulge in 17,000-square-feet of luxury at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Find yourself Lake Tahoe, where the awe-inspiring at home at magnitude of the mountains meets the The Spa an oasis of pampering services to at the Landing Resort in South instantly melt away the stresses and Lake Tahoe. strains of everyday life.

"The Cozy Cabin Couple's Massage is another unique experience that offers treatments tailored to the needs of both individuals," said communications manager Robin Penning of The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe.

"Treatments are performed in a romantically illuminated spa suite featuring its own fireplace where couples can relax as though they have escaped into the woods."

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To achieve optimal health and wellness results, dive into the heated co-ed spa lap pool overlooking the slopes at Northstar California, sweat it out at The Ritz-Carlton's state-of-the-art fitness center, or take advantage of their fully-integrated fitness programs including Pilates, yoga and spin classes.

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Sierra

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Practitioners offer a wide array of therapies to create an all-encompassing space for connection, rebuilding and restoring the mind, body and soul.

Services are designed to instill balance and inner connectedness that is sure to stay with you long after your time at The Sanctuary.

"A day at The Sanctuary offers an opportunity to re-set, unwind, and begin to rebuild. It's a break from the demands of not only a job, but the demands of home life," said Julie Morrison, who owns and operates the business alongside her mother, Kris DeBerg. "We believe that when someone feels better, they live happier and healthier lives."

TRILOGY SPA, OLYMPIC VALLEY WEBSITE: TRILOGYSPA.COM PHONE: 530-584-6125

Step out of your ski gear and into complete comfort at Trilogy Spa, located in the Village at Squaw Valley. Award-winning body treatments, massages and skincare services are available year-round at the stylish, chic and comfortable 4,000-square-foot spa.

"Taking time for yourself to just breathe and relax is an important part of spiritual well-being," said Trilogy Spa owner Alli Cautilli. "We offer Pre-Natal Massage for the deserving mother to be ... and we have a lounge space that is perfect for a ladies weekend away, bachelorette parties or bridal showers."

Need a little nosh before sipping on the wine?

Spa receptionists will happily order sushi from nearby Mamasake or sandwich patters from PlumpJack Squaw Valley Inn, delivered right to the door of your exclusive experience.

NORTH LAKE MASSAGE AND SKIN CARE, TAHOE VISTA WEBSITE: NORTHLAKEMASSAGEAND SKINCARE.COM PHONE: 530-546-4885

A stone's throw from the north shore of Lake Tahoe is North Lake Massage & Skin Care in Tahoe Vista, where the scent of therapeutic grade essential oils seep from the space, inviting guests to spend a day of pampering in peaceful privacy.

This hidden-gem-of-a-spa is only a short drive from Incline Village, Kings Beach, Northstar California, Squaw Valley and Tahoe City.

Enjoy the gravity and strength brought on by the deep-tissue, bare-foot massage techniques of Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy, or unwind with the nurturing touch of Swedish, Thai, or hot stone massage.

"Try our Herbology Texturizer Wrap for a service that never disappoints as you are gently massaged with exfoliating micro-grains that melt into your skin, wrapped into heated blankets and finally finish with a luxurious lotion used over the whole body," said Bethany Lambrecht, the spa's licensed esthetician, massage therapist and co-owner. "Come spend a day with us and we will be sure to send you home feeling blissful, relaxed and happy."

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www.intuitionslaketahoe.com TAHOE MAGAZINE

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A bettor prepares to make a wager at a William Hill kiosk inside the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Lake Tahoeís sports book. William Hill has kiosks at the Hard Rock and MontBleu Resort on the South Shore.

BETTING BY THE BOOKS

that was going to happen in a handball game - it was pretty crazy for us."

In the spring, the men's NCAA Basketball Tournament brings in a few strong weekends of March Madness action at the books. And Grodsky said Nevada recently wrapped up the biggest baseball season it has ever seen.

"Sports betting at the lake has grown," Grodsky said. "It's just getting more and more popular."

Lake Tahoe casinos' sports books add excitement to the game

BY ANTHONY GENTILE

O

NLY TWO STATES IN THE nation have legalized sports betting, and Lake Tahoe's South Shore offers one of the country's most unique settings in which to place a bet.

Whether it's picking your favorite team, putting money down on a parlay or playing the ponies, the sports books at Stateline offer the chance to get in on the action without involving slots, cards or dice.

"You get a big bang for your buck on a sports bet," said Bob Morrell, race and sports book supervisor at Lakeside Inn and Casino in Stateline.

"A game lasts you three hours - your money can last a lot longer than chunking it down at the craps table or the blackjack table."

Sports wagering is a popular pastime at Lake Tahoe, and has seen a recent increase in interest.

After 15 years in Tahoe and nearly three decades in the business, Morrell certainly agrees.

"It seems to be growing," Morrell said. "The younger crowd is catching on with sports betting."

The sports books at Tahoe attract locals and outof-towners alike. No matter who is coming to place a sports bet, the traffic is steady throughout the year.

"Every weekend, you see so many good customers," said Michael Grodsky, director of marketing for William Hill U.S., which runs the books at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Lake Tahoe and MontBleu Resort, as well as at the Crystal Bay Club and Hyatt Grand Lodge casinos on Tahoe's North Shore. "What an attraction it is to bring folks in from out of state any time of year to get that action in legally."

Professional and college football are the most popular sports to bet at the book, bringing in a steady stream of revenue throughout the fall and winter. And during the Super Bowl in February, bets extend beyond a simple point spread or overunder line. William Hill offers 500 ways to bet the game, from the coin toss to its last touchdown.

"We try to become more and more creative," Grodsky said. "Last year during the Super Bowl, we had a prop bet that was comparing an action that was going to happen in the game to an action

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LAKESIDE: THE LOCALS' SPOT

“ SPORTS BETTING AT THE LAKE HAS GROWN. IT'S JUST GETTING MORE AND MORE POPULAR. ” MICHAEL GRODSKY, WILLIAM HILL U.S. DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

PLAYING THE PARLAY One of the most popular sports bets is a parlay, in which bettors combine two or more items in search of a greater payout.

A parlay can combine between two and 12 "legs" with the payout increasing incrementally - all of the plays have to win or tie for the parlay to win.

"It's when you want to go ahead and stack on your wager or let it ride," said Michael Grodsky, director of marketing for William Hill U.S. "If you're a novice or experienced bettor, there are so many varieties of parlay cards."

William Hill's payouts range from $6.75 per dollar for a three-leg parlay to $3,000 per dollar for a 12-legger.

At the sports book, simply go to the booth, indicate you'd like to bet a parlay and give the ticket writer your bets.

But don't forget - as is the case with the sports book or with any gambling game at a casino, at times, the house will always win.

If you think you have a problem, please seek help. Visit www.whenthefunstops.com for more information.

Just east of the casino corridor, Lakeside Inn and Casino is considered the locals' sports book. And that's not the only thing that makes Lakeside unique.

"We're the only sports book that stands alone up here," Morrell said. "We're totally unique - we do our own lines here that might be different than down the street."

Lakeside makes its own lines throughout the year, point spreads eventually written with dry erase markers adjacent to magnets with team names. On occasion, Morrell said Lakeside has lines that are a full point different than the casinos at the state line.

"We take a peek at what everybody else has, but we adjust based on our local crowd and not what's happening in Vegas," Morrell said. "We can change our lines based on the bets we're getting," Thirty-one televisions and a bar surround Lakeside's sports book. The intimate setting provides a unique experience on game day.

Football is the biggest sport at Lakeside, especially Super Bowl Sunday. For last February's game between the Patriots and Seahawks, the sports book reached capacity at 8 a.m. - nearly eight hours before kickoff.

"Football is almost our whole year, and we look forward to it," Morrell said.

HARD ROCK: WAGER WHILE YOU WATCH

In terms of accommodations, the sports book at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino offers the best spot to see a wager in action on the South Shore.

The $60 million in renovations for the casino's launch last January included a new sports book.

"It's a nice space we have to work with there; it's very warm and welcoming," Grodsky said.

Hard Rock's sports book features 30 televisions and a nearby bar. The centerpiece of the book is a video wall that features eight televisions and highlights one of William Hill's most unique aspects - in-play wagering.

"If it's two teams you don't know anything about, you can sit there and watch the first quarter, second quarter, third quarter and then jump in the game halfway through the fourth quarter," Grodsky said. "You can kind of feel out the teams before the first bet."

William Hill's betting menu at Hard Rock is the most extensive in Nevada, and features the best payouts on parlay cards. And at the booth, its ticket writers can help even the least experienced of bettors find their way.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: WILLIAM HILL

"They're always welcoming of questions, whether you're a first-time bettor or an experienced bettor," Grodsky said. "You can go up there and tell them you want to bet on your favorite team and they can help explain the point spreads and the money line to you. They'll help find a wager on the menu that's right for you."

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MONTBLEU: PLAY THE PONIES

MontBleu Resort offers a spacious sports book that will get a facelift as part of a $24 million casino remodel scheduled for completion in late 2015.

When renovations are complete, the sports book run by William Hill will be located in the area that long housed the Sigma Derby machines.

"When finished, it will absolutely be the best horse racing experience at the lake," Grodsky said.

Horse racing is currently the defining aspect of the sports book at MontBleu. The book offers parimutuel betting for horse races, a form of betting in which those holding the winning tickets divide the total amount bet in proportion to their wagers - the more people that bet, the bigger the winnings.

HARVEYS AND HARRAH'S: FOR THE MORE SERIOUS

The sports books at Harveys Lake Tahoe and Harrah's Lake Tahoe offer a more serious vibe for those who want to track their wagers without a ton of fanfare. Caesars Entertainment runs the books at the casinos located across the street from each other just inside the state line.

At Harvey's, the Video Stadium features 29 televisions and 24 individual booths along with a large LED board displaying the lines and spreads. Across the way, Harrah's has a smaller book with an adjacent bar that includes nine televisions.

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The sports book at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Lake Tahoe has 31 televisions, and the centerpiece is a video wall that features in-play wagering.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: WILLIAM HILL

775.588.7777 | 800.624.7980 | 168 HIGHWAY 50, STATELINE, NV LAKESIDEINN.COM Management reserves all rights to change or cancel promotions at any time.

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PHOTO: XXXXXX

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Spirits of the Sierra Tahoe-Truckee bars serve up a variety of winter-themed cocktails

BY EMILY STOTT

THERE MAY BE NO BETTER WAY TO WRAP up a crisp, winter day at Lake Tahoe than with an artfully made craft cocktail. From seasonal fruit-based drinks, to classic whiskey drinks, to creative dessert drinks, there is more than one way to serve up your favorite booze and winter flavors in a glass.

Here are seven drinks we scouted out around Tahoe-Truckee, and what makes them worth imbibing in.

THE PAVILION COTTONWOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR, TRUCKEE This cocktail is a cozy blend of whiskey, sugar and spice. Named after a warming hut built on the historic ski lodge grounds in 1928, The Pavilion will warm you up as you settle into the rustic environment at Cottonwood. Rye whiskey, Amaro herbal liqueur and Peychaud's bitters combine to make a complex cocktail. A bit of sugar rounds off the edge of the whiskey and Amaro, while house-made spiced and brandied cherries and an orange twist give this cocktail a light fruit addition.

LEARN MORE: cottonwoodrestaurant.com

PHOTO: EMILY STOTT

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HILLTOP TODDY

SNICKERDOODLE

COTTONWOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR, TRUCKEE

THE CHOCOLATE BAR, NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA

An old classic with a twist, this bourbonbased hot toddy will soothe any sore throat during the winter months. The Hilltop Toddy starts with an earl grey and chamomile tea base before bourbon, honey syrup, lemon juice and a dash of spiced brandy are stirred in. A cinnamon stick and lemon wedge are added on top to make the perfect aprés ski beverage.

LEARN MORE: cottonwoodrestaurant.com

Perfect for anyone who loves indulging in sweets, this martini-style dessert drink brings all the flavors of treats at a holiday party. Vanilla vodka, Amaretto, creme de cacao, white chocolate and half & half are shaken up and poured into a cinnamon sugar-rimmed glass and topped with more cinnamon. The result is a drink that looks and tastes like the classic snickerdoodle cookie.

LEARN MORE: thechocbar.com

SEXY SNOWMAN THE CHOCOLATE BAR, NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA Known as Chocolate Bar's signature drink at Northstar, this hot cocoa is perfect for after (or before) a run down the slopes. Vanilla vodka, Bacardi 151, hazelnut liqueur, Irish cream, creme de cacao are mixed into Godiva hot chocolate. The drink is then topped with whipped cream, caramel, chocolate and fried coconut to give it a Nutella hot chocolate taste.

The result is a smooth and creamy drink with fun, wintery flavors that will warm you up.

LEARN MORE: thechocbar.com

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PHOTOS: EMILY STOTT

DARK HORSE BITE AMERICAN TAPAS, INCLINE VILLAGE A smoky flavor profile with a complementary salt rim makes the Dark Horse a unique cocktail.

Tapatio Blanco tequila, mezcal, Citronage, house-made mission fig syrup, fresh lime and orange juices and mole bitters create a refreshing cocktail with warm additions from the fig syrup and cacao, cinnamon and spice flavors of the mole bitters. This is a sophisticated cocktail for winding down at the end of a winter's day.

LEARN MORE: bitetahoe.com

ESPRESSO MARTINI

TANGIER TONIC

THE DIVIDED SKY, SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

BITE AMERICAN TAPAS, INCLINE VILLAGE

A tasty drink with a kick, this martini is made with fresh espresso to give that needed caffeine boost at the end of a day on the slopes. Chocolate vodka, Baley's Irish Cream and organic half & half are shaken up with half a shot of espresso.

The drink is topped off with cocoa powder and espresso beans to create an indulgent pick-me-up.

LEARN MORE: thedividedsky.com

This bright and slightly fruity cocktail brings together a variety of flavors. Tito's vodka, Aperol, house-made Morrocan spiced simple syrup, pomegranate purée, fresh lime and a mint garnish create a fresh-tasting cocktail that finishes with warm spice flavors. Perfect for tapas food pairings at Bite, this drink mirrors the comforts of winter food recipes.

LEARN MORE: bitetahoe.com

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Caffeinated confections Know where to go to get you on the go from some of the region's favorite locally owned coffee shops

BY JOSH STAAB

L

IKE THE BEAN ITSELF, coffee shops offer a certain level of energy that differs from location to location.

Nestled among the trees and the lakes and the streams, Tahoe-Truckee is home to a number of shops offering an assortment of caffeinated confections, each serving up something different yet familiar all at once.

Allow this journalist to preface this with a single caveat: My relationship with coffee is strictly utilitarian. Which isn't to say I dislike coffee by

any stretch of the imagination - far from that, in fact. No, I love coffee; however, my love for coffee comes from the simple service it provides. It wakes me up and keeps me going. Though I love its taste, I don't take the time to appreciate its nuance or complexities perhaps like those who have prepared it for me.

Every morning it is a blur of

1 COFFEEBAR

WHAT MAKES YOUR COFFEE UNIQUE IN OUR REGION?

WHERE: 10120 JIBBOOM ST., TRUCKEE, OPEN DAILY 6 A.M. TO 7 P.M. WHERE: 12047 DONNER PASS ROAD, TRUCKEE, OPEN DAILY 7 A.M. TO 6 P.M. WHERE: 682 MT. ROSE ST., RENO, OPEN DAILY 5:30 A.M. TO 10 P.M. ONLINE: WWW.COFFEEBARTRUCKEE.COM Coffeebar, which opened in May 2010 in downtown Truckee, is inspired by the traditions instilled by generations of authentic Italianstyle espresso making, owner and operator Greg Bucheister has since opened two other locations, one in Reno and another in Truckee.

right:

photos left to

A look inside Coffeebar's Reno location.

A freshly poured latté, courtesy of Truckee's Coffeebar.

Coffeebar owner and operator Greg Buchheister is hard at work inside his original Truckee location.

Our style of coffee is Italian. We make real cappuccinos, serve traditional espresso shots and offer that Italian customer service that you see all over Italy. Outside of a few stores along the coast, we are probably one of the only traditional Italian coffee experiences in California.

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR CRAFT?

We are passionate about the craft of communicating with our customers. Our "why" is making our customers feel good, so they can go out into the world and achieve their dreams.

Our vehicle for accomplishing this is excellent, artful coffee and great customer service.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE KIND OF CUSTOMER WHO COMES TO COFFEEBAR?

Our customer is an open-minded person, looking for a different experience than just a cup of coffee.

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rushing from one location to another, coffee in hand, as I virtually pour it down my throat.

Enter Barbara and Caroline Vogt of Tahoe City's Tahoe House Bakery & Café and Greg Bucheister of Truckee's Coffeebar. They, along with a number of locally owned coffee shops throughout the entire Lake Tahoe region, posit the region is rife with options for any type of coffee aficionado.

Here are five spots across Truckee and Lake Tahoe go get your morning started off right: We like people who have many layers and who are willing to connect and share - both with us, but also the community around them. But if you just want a great cup of coffee, we can do that too!

ARE CRAFT COFFEE HOUSES CHANGING COMMUNITIES LIKE OURS?

I think the new wave of coffee shops is trying to integrate into their communities, but they are letting their egos get in the way. I feel like a lot of coffee houses tell you "no" three or four times during your experience. I understand what they are trying to accomplish by trying to guide people through their lack of choices, but I feel like coffee houses would connect more with their community if they operated with more heart and less ego. If you make a great cup of coffee, people will come - you don't need to tell them how great you think you are before they have it.

PHOTOS: FAR LEFT COURTESY GRANT KAYE; MIDDLE & RIGHT MATT CHAPPELL

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL ANYONE WITH THE PASSION TO START HIS OR HER OWN COFFEE HOUSE?

3 FREEL PERK

If you are passionate about coffee, go work in a coffee shop for six months. If you still love it, then go for it. It's a grind (pun intended), and it is very hard. You have to be mentally prepared to work seven days a week, twelve hours a day.

WHERE: 3141 U.S. HIGHWAY 50, MEYERS, OPEN DAILY 6 A.M. TO 3 P.M. ONLINE: WWW.FREELPERK.COM Owned by local real estate agent Barbara Gerland, the cafe's exterior has a rustic, mountain-town vibe that defines the Meyers Station business plaza. Inside, there's a splash of artwork and cozy seating arrangements. More seating exists outside in the "Heart of Meyers" plaza.

Freel Perk brews coffee made by Mindenbased Alpen Sierra Coffee Company. Bagels and sweets are delivered from Rude Brothers and Sugar Pine Bakery in South Lake Tahoe.

2 TAHOE HOUSE BAKERY & CAF… WHERE: 625 WEST LAKE BLVD, TAHOE CITY, OPEN DAILY 6 A.M. TO 4 P.M. ONLINE: WWW.TAHOE-HOUSE.COM Owned and operated by Barbara Vogt Melrose and Caroline Vogt Lee, the sisters took over the family business from their parents who established it in 1977. The coffee shop became synonymous in its region for fresh, hot coffee with its unique blend of traditional coffee making and its assortment of baked goods, seasonings and other products, unique to the nearly 40-year-old business.

WHAT MAKES YOUR COFFEE UNIQUE IN OUR REGION? The beans are ground for each and every cup we serve. The water is infused with the grounds and the coffee is brewed under pressure creating a smooth créme. Since our family is Swiss, we chose Swiss coffee machines to make the best cup of coffee possible.

PHOTO: MATT CHAPPELL

The slow drip of espresso as it pours from the maker to the cup.

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR CRAFT? We at the Tahoe House are passionate about serving the freshest cup of coffee you can find.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE KIND OF CUSTOMER WHO COMES TO TAHOE HOUSE? Not only do we serve great coffee, but also we provide quick and friendly service. We strive to know our customers by name or remember their favorite drink. Tahoe House is a place where everyone feels at home and conversations are often struck up among our guests.

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left: Like most 19th century saloons, Franzinis in downtown Truckee offered food along with beer and cocktails. inset below:

Peruvian Syrup Ad: Alcohol laced with narcotics were popular cure-all remedies often sold over the counter such as this cocaine infused tonic.

This 1882 ad was published in Reno GazetteJournal.

Last call You might be surprised to learn about what came of the saloons of Truckee and the Old West

BY MARK MCLAUGHLIN

T

HEIR LABELS WERE TELLING. Drinking Red Dynamite would "blow your head off." Block and Tackle made a man "walk a block and tackle anything." Forty Rods dropped the drinker at exactly that distance from the bar. The debilitating effects of Taos Lightning struck a man on the spot. There were so many alcoholic concoctions in the saloons of the 19th century frontier West, that each customer could chose his own poison.

America's love of alcohol got its start in the very beginning, and not surprisingly, trouble began right away. The 17th century Virginian missionary Captain John Thorpe distributed barrels of distilled "godly liquor" to the Native Americans to help persuade them to accept the "true faith" of Christianity. He was killed for his efforts because, as one writer put it, "The Natives either got too much of his whiskey or his religion, or got the two confused."

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blossomed 200 years later in the saloons of the Wild West. In 1860, there were 42 saloons in Virginia City, Nevada, which was a ratio of about one drinking establishment for every 52 men. The popularity of saloons was related to the fact that there were very few women to distract and moderate men's behavior.

Considering the primitive conditions in early frontier towns, the selection of spirits was impressive.

Saloons offered domestically brewed beer from St. Louis and Milwaukee, as well as porter, stout, and ale imported from England. California's legendary wine industry began in the 18th century when Franciscan monks planted vines at their chain of coastal

missions to produce sacramental wine. There were also about 20 different brands of bourbon and rye whiskey available at Truckee and Nevada drinking establishments.

ALCOHOL AS A CURE FOR DISEASE For those settlers, miners and prospectors living on the east slope of the Sierra Nevada, the local drink of choice was "Tarantula Juice." This home-brewed beverage imparted a nasty "bite" due to the strychnine added to it. Strychnine is a poison, but in the early 19th century French scientists had promoted a diluted strychnine/prussic acid mixture as a cure for pulmonary disorders. In lethal doses, strychnine kills quickly.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: TRUCKEE DONNER HISTORICAL SOCIETY; INSET: CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: NEVADA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

In Carson Valley, traders purchased a strychnine solution in Placerville and then added it to what they called "gin." Carson Valley gin was wood grain alcohol made from turpentine, oil of vitriol, rosin and essence of laurel. Sometime around 1852, local Nevada fiddle player "Dutch Nick" Ambrose added prussic acid as well as tobacco oil to his concoction and called it Tarantula Juice.

Strychnine is an alkaloid and probably produced an effect similar to the drug methamphetamine.

The erratic bursts of nervous energy coupled with heavy alcohol consumption often resulted in violence. The moniker "Tarantula" alluded to more than the drink's bite.

Historian C.W. Bayer wrote, "As the pleasurable effects of the strychnine whiskey wore off, muscle spasms set in and the celebrant's skin would crawl as if covered by dozens of baby tarantulas. The name seems to have derived because men ordered two tumblers. The second tumbler remained for early morning - so as to combat the muscle spasms, the lockjaw. Left upon the table until midnight, a spare tumbler of the 'juice' killed off the baby tarantulas - that feeling of small hairy arms creeping upon the flesh as limbs began to stiffen."

Mark Twain mentions miners afflicted with these "spiders" in his book "Roughing It." THE RIGHT OR WRONG REMEDY? Despite the inherent risk from drinking strychnine whiskey, the harsh liquor served an important purpose for emigrants and prospectors. It was considered a cure for the region's bad water, which frequently led to abdominal discomfort and diarrhea.

The combination of alkali water and diarrhea generated plagues of cholera.

One epidemic that swept through the Carson River region during 1851 forced California-bound emigrants to veer north onto the Truckee route.

Everyone thought that drinking beer or whiskey laced with strychnine mitigated the effects of the contaminated water, and therefore could protect against contracting cholera. Legendary Nevada journalist Alf Doten took strychnine pills in 1857 - in conjunction with an "Electric chemical bath" juiced by batteries. Doten endured these odd remedies to cure a boil on his hip.

Pharmacists prescribed nearly as much alcohol as bartenders poured. Alcohol-based cure-alls and remedies were common. Hostetter's Bitters was advertised as a "liver-regulator and cure for dyspepsia, torpidness and influenza." It packed enough of a wallop that it became a favorite with clergymen who would not patronize a bar, but could visit their pharmacist instead.

Another favorite elixir was Dr. B.J. Kendall's blackberry balsam, a suggested remedy for diarrhea, dysentery, cholera and liver ailments. It was a mixture of nearly pure alcohol with five grains of opium per liquid ounce. The recommended dosage was three tablespoons for an adult, one tablespoon for children 8 to 10 years old and slightly lesser amounts for younger children.

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MORE MEN, MORE SALOONS Sometimes, the cure was worse than the affliction.

Ragtown, situated on the Carson River, represented life-giving water to the fortunate emigrants who had survived crossing the Forty Mile Desert. At Ragtown, whiskey was often used to protect against teeming organisms found in tainted desert water.

In 1858 a traveler wrote: "Ragtown is said at one time to have contained 30 whiskey shops, and was broken up by famine and disease in 1854. There is a large cluster of graves near by, which are said to have been dug chiefly by bad whiskey."

During the early 1860s in Virginia City, Mark Twain and Artemus Ward, both humorists, writers and lecturers, were joined by two other comrades in a serious drinking binge. By the time Ward

proposed a standing toast, nobody in the party could stand. At one saloon the bill for the four men totaled $237, at a time when a good dinner cost three dollars and drinks sold for 50¢ each.

Artemus Ward, whose real name was Charles Farrar Browne, was immensely popular for his deadpan delivery and his appearance could pack a theater with paying customers. The owner of San Francisco's Maguire's Opera House asked the highly paid comedian what he would charge to entertain for 100 nights? Ward promptly replied, "Brandy and soda."

Frontier towns celebrated national holidays with parades, parties and drinking.

Here is the Fourth of July parade in Truckee, circa 1880s.

Note the saloons in the background.

As the male population boomed, so did the number of saloons ready to slake their thirst. By the time the transcontinental railroad came through Truckee in 1868, there were 35 residences and 28 saloons and dance halls.

The saloon was all things to all men. Besides being a drinking establishment, it was often an eatery, a hotel, a bath and comfort station, a livery stable, gambling den, dance hall, bordello, barbershop, courtroom, political arena, dueling ground and undertaker's parlor. The saloon was as American as apple pie.

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“ THERE

IS A LARGE CLUSTER OF GRAVES NEARBY, WHICH ARE SAID TO HAVE BEEN DUG CHIEFLY BY BAD WHISKEY. ”

Washington drank hot toddies in countless taprooms and ran up enormous liquor bills. Thomas Jefferson promoted home brewing of native malt. Daniel Webster was "as majestic in his consumption of liquor as in everything else."

Taverns and saloons are an American tradition.

Saloons in the West drew men like a magnet. For some of the early prospectors and pioneers whiskey came before food, women, even gold. The saloon was often the first building up in a new community and the last to close before it became a ghost town.

The saloon was the best place for socializing and conducting business, and the barkeep was one of the most respected citizens in town.

In 1860, the total population of Virginia City was 2,390, only 118 of whom were women.

Without the restraining influence of "respectable women," miners often drank until they passed out.

In many saloons, itinerant wayfarers who spent money on drink were allowed to sleep on the sawdust floor.

Morning call would often find many customers still asleep on the chairs, tables and windowsills. For the male population, the saloon was a refuge from dreariness and toil, a place of human companionship - the "apex of masculine society and the epitome of its culture."

Ironically, it was not Prohibition that ended saloons as a male sanctuary. Their decline began when women demanded the right to step up to the bar and drink there too. The loss of this last bastion of male camaraderie finally destroyed the myth and doomed a once-vital (if deadly) piece of American folklore.

For the male population, the saloon was a refuge from dreariness and toil, a place of human companionship— the “apex of masculine society and the epitome of its culture.”

CONTRIBUTD PHOTO: TRUCKEE DONNER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

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SNOWGLOBE'S ARTISTS TO WATCH

AKE TAHOE'S BIGGEST MUSIC FESTIVAL, SnowGlobe Music Festival, will return for a fifth year to the playfields next to Lake Tahoe Community College in South Lake Tahoe Dec. 29-31.

Since its inception, the festival has doubled in size, attracting about 15,000 fans each day, and has become a staple of Lake Tahoe's winter entertainment calendar. The lineup is typically heavy on electronic dance music, but hip-hop and dancy rock and roll also make appearances each year.

Festival-goers can expect more diverse lineups as the festival continues to grow, said organizer Chad Donnelly.

"It's been an amazing ride," Donnelly said of the festival's origins. "We're getting better at evolving the festival year after year."

Here's a look at three acts to look out for this year:

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The powerhouse American DJ duo of Skrillex and Diplo headlines the main stage at SnowGlobe this year. Longtime kindred musical spirits, the duo released their first official single "Take - There" in September 2014, following up with their debut album "Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack Ăź" in February 2015. Skrillex headlined SnowGlobe as a solo artist in 2014, packing dancing masses into the field in front of the main stage. He'll be sure to kick it up a notch with partner-in-crime Diplo in 2015.

British DJ and deep house producer Duke Dumont will make his SnowGlobe debut this year. "Need U (100%)", "I Got U" and "Won't Look Back" are among the producer's most wellknown songs.

He released the first EP in a planned series of collections, "BlasĂŠ Boys Club Part 1," in October. Donnelly listed Dumont among the particularly exciting artists at this year's festival.

American DJ and producer Dillon Francis returns to this year's SnowGlobe. The festival veteran grew to fame with his song "Masta Blasta" and is among the most popular moombahton, a fusion of reggaeton and house music, producers around.

Dillon moved up to the main stage in 2013 following a rowdy 2011 performance.

He's sure to attract a raucous crowd.

Visit www.snowglobemusic festival.com for a full lineup and more information on the SnowGlobe Music Festival.

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A TAHOE North Shore's biggest winter party — in the spring — readies for its 35th anniversary

BY TIM HAUSERMAN

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S

NOWFEST! HAS DEFINED THE first week of March at Lake Tahoe since 1982. This year, from March 4 to March 13, in honor of its 35th anniversary, the theme will be "SnowFest! Through the Years!"

The goal this year, according to new co-executive Director Dana Tanner Powell, is to highlight fixtures of past SnowFest! events, such as Snow Slippery and Old Man Winter, while moving forward into the future.

"There will be a few new events and a few more popular winter outdoor activities," said Tanner Powell. "We want to make it more family friendly with a good balance of party and family stuff."

SnowFest! has always been a combination of entertaining traditions like the Tahoe City and Kings Beach parades, the Polar Bear Swim, and The Great Ski Race, as well as unique and quirky events. The aim is simple: Give locals and visitors alike an opportunity to have some fun near the tail end of winter.

SnowFest! began in 1982 and was the brain child of Bob Everson, then marketing director at Alpine Meadows.

At a late June 1981 meeting of the North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce and Visitors and Convention Bureau, Everson made a proposal for a March event to attract people to North Lake Tahoe.

Ten days after the meeting, Everson was killed on the Fourth of July while sleeping in his sailboat that was attached to a buoy on Lake Tahoe. A speedboat plowed through it in the middle of the night.

At its next meeting, the group, spurred on by the tragedy, committed to make SnowFest! happen in his honor.

For many longtime Tahoe residents and visitors, SnowFest! is about nostalgia. The kids who are now in college, or even out of college with kids of their own, have fond memories of when they marched in the SnowFest! parade, won the ice cream eating contest, or ran for SnowFest! Queen.

The SnowFest! Queen program supports both SnowFest!, and the variety of worthy nonprofit organizations that the Queen candidates represent. Every year, half of the

left: The 2015 SnowFest! Queen, Katie Butterfield, waves to the crowd during the Kings Beach SnowFest! Parade.

James "JC" Krise — who died at age 79 on Dec. 2, 2014 — served as SnowFest!'s Old Man Winter for more than two dozen years. Here, he's seen in the 2011 Tahoe City SnowFest! parade.

LEARN MORE The full event list for the 35th annual SnowFest! continues to be developed heading into 2016.

Be sure to stay up to date at www.tahoesnowfestival.com, where you can learn more about the event's history and all its major sponsors.

proceeds of raffle tickets sold by Queen candidates go to these organizations, which can run into the thousands of dollars. These funds are then returned to the community in the form of programs that help make North Tahoe a better place.

While the traditions are continuing, a few other things are changing this year.

According to new co-executive Director John Haynes, the fireworks and the rest of the Squaw Valley events have been moved to Saturday night, March 5, instead of the usual Friday night.

"It's a much better arrangement for getting people up to the lake in time, or to stay on

the slopes after a day of skiing," said Haynes.

While the fireworks have been moved to Saturday, the SnowFest!

Queen Coronation has been moved to Thursday, to be part of a new opening-night party at Gar Woods that will include cocktails, food, music and a silent auction.

Haynes is excited about the future of SnowFest! and working as a team with Tanner Powell.

They are both longtime locals, and SnowFest! has always been a big part of their lives.

"She has worked for SnowFest!. I've been a MC and announcer for SnowFest! events," Haynes said. "I've lived here for almost 30 years. We are a good fit because we live here and are involved with the community."

While they want to continue with tradition, Haynes and Tanner Powell also want to look to the future, when hopefully new additions and ideas will keep the SnowFest! dream alive.

It's a dream that is kept alive in the hearts of Tahoe children who hope one day to march in the parade, become SnowFest! Queen, or perhaps even be crazy enough to join in the Polar Bear Swim.

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The gingerbread village at Resort at Squaw Creekís Magical Memories Celebration has grown over the years to become a sprawling array that lines the lobby of the resort.

DECEMBER

2 5 - J A N 3 Magical Memories The 11th annual Magical Memories is a month long celebration of daily holiday fun, including a Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony; Tahoe Retro Party; live music; holiday dining; and more at Resort at Squaw Creek. squawcreek.com

4 Kings Beach Holiday Tree Lighting 5-7 p.m. North Tahoe Event Center in Kings Beach. Join Mr. and Mrs. Claus for complimentary soup and cocoa, arts and crafts stations, photos with Santa and book sale. northtahoebusiness.org

2 0 - J A N 3 Holidays at Squaw Alpine Events throughout the week. Look for Santa on the slopes, festive cheer in the village, and enjoy skiing and snowboarding with Olympic Gold Medalist Jonny Moseley. squawalpine.com

2 8 Light Up the Night 5 p.m. at Tahoe Donner's The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. Meet Santa and enjoy storytelling, caroling, the signature lighting of the tree and more. Free. tahoedonner.com

1 2 Brunch with Santa Claus 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. The Chateau at Incline Village. Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and elves for a festive family brunch with crafts and photos. inclinerecreation.com

2 4 - 2 5 Santa & Penguin Pete visit Diamond Peak 11a.m. Diamond Peak Ski Resort. Take your photo with Santa and Penguin Pete on the slopes or base area. diamondpeak.com

•

1 8 - 2 2 Santa's Gingerbread Workshops 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The RitzCarlton, Lake Tahoe. Kids and kids at heart are invited to work alongside a Ritz-Carlton pastry chef in this one-of-a-kind workshop to build a personalized gingerbread house fit for the North Pole. ritzcarlton.com/laketahoe

•

NOVEMBER

3 Ladies Night & 'Pretty Faces' Screening 6 p.m. Tahoe Mountain Sports in Truckee. All-female ski movie "Pretty Faces." Event-night shopping specials with proceeds benefitting Tahoe Food Hub. tahoemountainsports.com

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: RESORT AT SQUAW CREEK

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S H O R E

2 4 - 2 5 Manzanita Holiday Dinner 4-10 p.m. at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe. Join us in Manzanita for holiday-inspired specials designed by chef de cuisine. A la carte pricing. ritzcarlton.com/laketahoe

1 1 - 1 5 Learn to Ski & Ride Week 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Diamond Peak Ski Resort. $39 Learn to Ski & Ride packages include a beginner lift ticket, rentals, and lesson. diamondpeak.com

2 6 Moonlit Snowshoe Tour & Dinner 5 p.m.

Events take place Dec. 26-27; Jan. 2 and 16; Feb. 13-14; and March 5. After the mountain closes and the winter moon rises, experience a snowshoe tour to the mid-mountain Chalet at Alpine Meadows. squawalpine.com

2 2 - 2 4 7th Annual Ullr Fest Torchlight parade and party kick off a weekend honoring the Norse god of snow to benefit the Diamond Peak Ski Team. diamondpeak.com/events

3 1 NYE Grand Celebration Party and Dinner 7 p.m. in Resort at Squaw Creek's Grand Sierra ballroom. Squaw Valley's most elegant and festive New Year's Eve party. Dinner, entertainment, live music, dancing, party favors, and a champagne toast. squawcreek.com

J A N U A RY 4 - 1 5 Learn to Ski and Snowboard Weeks Available Monday-Friday at Tahoe Donner Cross Country and Downhill Ski Areas. Enjoy discounted learn to ski packages; help break a Guinness World Record on Jan. 8. tahoedonner.com

Fun for the whole family!

Monday – Friday Not valid with any other offers or during holiday periods. SDG Exp. April 25, 2016

2 7 Ortovox Avalanche Ed Series: Airbag Party 6 p.m. Tahoe Mountain Sports in Truckee.

Presentation: avy-airbag packs, passive/active backcountry safety gear. Free. Open to public. Sierra Avalanche Center raffle. tahoemountainsports.com

F E B R U A RY 6 - A P R I L 9 (Saturdays) - Last Tracks Wine & Beer Tastings 4 p.m. at Diamond Peak Ski Resort and Snowflake Lodge. Ski from 2-4 p.m., then taste wine/ beer and appetizers before skiing down a freshly groomed trail. diamondpeak.com 1 4 Valentine's Day Inspired Painted Vine Event 7-9:30 p.m. at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe.

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MARCH 5 Diamond Peak Uphill/Downhill Dash 7a.m.

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1 1 - 1 3 FIS Freestyle World Cup Squaw Valley is set to host the best skiers and riders in a variety of disciplines as the FIS Freestyle World Cup returns to the resort. squawalpine.com 1 3 I-Did-A-Run 12 p.m. at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area. Dogs will pull a weighted sled against the clock for a chance to win prizes. tahoedonner.com 1 9 200-Foot Banana Split Extravaganza 1:30 p.m. at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area. Grab some spoons and help devour an incredible 200-foot banana split for free. tahoedonner.com 2 0 Taste of Truckee 12 p.m. at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area. Skiers will enjoy a day of skiing paired with local gourmet foods and drinks. tahoedonner.com

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2 5 UnBirthday Celebration All day at Diamond Peak Ski Resort. Celebrate your UnBirthday and ski free on 3/25 if your birthday falls outside ski season. diamondpeak.com/events

APRIL 1 - 3 WinterWonderGrass Tahoe World-class bluegrass and acoustic roots performances, craft breweries and local food vendors under the snow covered peaks of Squaw Valley. Featuring Leftover Salmon, Les Claypool. Railroad Earth and others. squawalpine.com

Inside MontBleu Casino

2 16th Annual Dummy Downhill All day at Diamond Peak Ski Resort. Watch as dummies on skis or snowboards fly off a huge jump and crash hard. diamondpeak.com 6 Cushing Crossing 1 p.m. at Cushing Pond.

Squaw Valley's annual spring skiing spectacle, complete with splashes, crashes, costumes, and fun! squawalpine.com 2 8 - 3 0 Truckee Follies The 22nd occasionally semi-annual Truckee Follies event takes a very humorous and risque look at life in Truckee. historictruckee.com

M AY 1 5 Best of Tahoe Chefs 4:30 p.m. The RitzCarlton, Lake Tahoe. Annual fundraiser for the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center patient and family programs. bestoftahoechefs.org

Best Selection of Premium Cigars in the largest walk-in humidor in Tahoe Professional Sports Memorabilia Football, Baseball, Basketball & Hockey Logo Items

775.588.1677 laketahoecigar@aol.com TAHOE MAGAZINE

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe's Vinyl music venue. hardrockcasinolaketahoe.com

4 - 1 2 Winter Ignite This event features the annual Warren Miller Film premiere Dec. 4-5 at Harrah's, Unbuckle Après Parties (Dec. 10-12) at Tamarack Lodge, Tahoe Adventure Film Festival at Montbleu (Dec. 11), on-mountain music with Heavenly's DJ Cat (Dec. 12) and a live concert at Heavenly Village. skiheavenly.com

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NOVEMBER 2 8 Hot for Teacher This Van Halen tribute act prides itself on note-for-note renditions of Eddie Van Halen's guitar riffs and solos and bringing the party to any venue. This free show starts at 9 p.m. in Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe's Vinyl music venue. hardrockcasinolaketahoe.com 2 8 Pablo Cruise The Harrah's Lake Tahoe South Shore Room hosts this pop/rock act that had four singles reach the Billboard charts in the 1970s, including "Whatcha Gonna Do?" and "Love Will Find A Way." The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $38.53 plus fees. caesars.com/harrahs-tahoe

5 Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience Jason Bonham, the son of late Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, brings the songs of the influential rock group to the theater at MontBleu Resort Casino and Spa this December. The show begins at 9 p.m., with tickets starting at $50 plus fees. montbleuresort.com 1 1 Tahoe Adventure Film Festival at MontBleu Resort This fun high-energy evening will fuel your passion for action, and ignite your senses for adventure. We highlight the best adventure sports films of the year and showcase the action sports world best talent. laketahoefilmfestival.com 1 2 Doobies, Inc. Southern California's Doobies, Inc. draws on 40 years of Doobie Brothers hits to bring rock, country, R&B, jazz, folk and Americana to crowds thirsty for some nostalgia. The act performs starting at 9 p.m. in

1 9 Strange Days This Los Angeles group brings the songs of the Doors to life with an authentic on-stage look and spot-on performances.

The band goes on starting at 9 p.m. in Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe's Vinyl music venue. hardrockcasinolaketahoe.com 1 9 Cheap Trick These rock icons return to the South Shore with a performance at Harrah's Lake Tahoe. They bring their deep collection of hits with them. Fan favorites include "Surrender, "I Want You to Want Me" and "Dream Police." Tickets are $44.95 plus fees. caesars.com/harrahs-tahoe 2 6 Cream of Clapton, Eric Clapton tribute Kevin Russell's Cream of Clapton pays homage to the deep collection of blues that comprises guitar-great Eric Clapton songbook. The group performs starting at 9 p.m. in Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe's Vinyl music venue. hardrockcasinolaketahoe.com 2 9 - 3 1 SnowGlobe Music Festival This annual winter music festival at the play fields next to Lake Tahoe Community College emphasizes electronic dance music but also features hip-hop

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acts, live art and skiing and snowboarding. Top acts this year include Jack ‹, Dillon Francis, Chet Faker and Eric Prydz. snowglobemusicfestival.com 3 0 The Weight The Weight brings the music of Levon Helm to the Harrah's Lake Tahoe South Shore Room. The group includes former members of the Band, Midnight Ramble Band and Rick Danko Band. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $27.52 plus fees. caesars.com/harrahs-tahoe 3 1 New Year's Eve Celebration, Heavenly Village The evening is packed with world-class music, games, fireworks, and the world's only Gondola Ball Drop. Entertainment includes an outdoor concert, ice sculpting performances, fire dancers, a photo booth and face painting. skiheavenly.com

J A N U A RY 8 - 1 5 Tahoe South Restaurant Week Gourmet burgers, handmade pastas, mouthwatering steaks, fresh seafood, inventive small plates, and decadent desserts are on the menu as the South Shore's restaurants roll out an extraordinary culinary experience for California Restaurant Month with the theme, "Made with Altitude." tahoesouth.com/restaurantweek 3 0 G. Love and Special Sauce This Philadelphia trio blends blues and hip-hop into a laid-back groove that has entertained crowds for nearly three decades. The group plays the Harrah's Lake Tahoe South Shore Room at 7 p.m. Jan. 30. Tickets to the show are $32.11 plus fees. caesars.com/harrahs-tahoe

MARCH 5 "Dancing with the Tahoe Stars" This event, planned to start at 6:30 p.m. at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa, is a benefit for Tahoe Arts Project. tahoeartsproject.org 6 Something Blue Wedding Expo Interact with and learn about Lake Tahoe's top local wedding vendors including florists, DJs, bakeries and representatives from wedding venues. It will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa. tahoeweddings.org

THE BEST BREAKFAST IN LAKE TAHOE A Tahoe Tradition Since 1964 (530) 544-8113 • 3485 Hwy. 50 South Lake Tahoe 1/3 Mile West of Ski Run Blvd.

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APRIL 2 3 "An Elegant Evening" Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra's will host its annual fundraiser, "An Elegant Evening," at Harrah's Lake Tahoe Convention Center. Drink tastings, along with a plated dinner is planned from 5:30-10:30 p.m. More information is available at www.sitahoesierra.org/elegant-evening.

3310 Lake Tahoe Boulevard 530.541.2321 TAHOE MAGAZINE

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ADVERTISERS

A Step Above.......................................16

........................................ Cover 3/South

Infinity Marketing Inc./Suddenlink Comm...50

A Step Above.......................................17

Chase International/South Lake Tahoe.........9

Intuition................................................77

Alpine Mini Storage...............................25

Cobblestone Center...................... 94 & 95

JD Gray's Jewelry..................................71

Lake Tahoe Cruises/Snowmobile Center....47

Communication Links..............................15

La Mexicana Investments Inc..................100

Arts for the Schools................................89

Craig Zager/Coldwell Banker Select......103

Lake Tahoe Cigar Company....................99

Austin's Restaurant.................................69

Creative Concepts/

Lake Tahoe School.................................20

Basecamp Hotel...................................37

Mountainside Northstar.................. 6 & 7

Lake Tahoe Snowmobiling.......................98

Beach Retreat & Lodge...........................10

Crosby's..............................................91

Lakeshore Realty Associates.....................13

Bear Beach Cafe................................101

Diamond Peak......................................35

Lakeshore Realty/ Diane Brown...............76

Bite, LLC..............................................89

Don Kanare........................Cover 4/North

Lakeside Inn & Casino............................79

Burger Me!..........................................83

Dr. Karen Kucharski..............................104

MacDuff's Pub......................................90

Coldwell Banker Incline Village Realty...........

Edgewood Tahoe................. Cover 4/South

Marynell Hartnett..................................14

.................................................... 4 & 5

First American Title...............................102

Monte Vista/Highland Estates.................43

Cedar House Sport Hotel........................75

Gateway Urgent Care............................39

Mountain Hardware..............................99

Chart House.........................................87

Goldfish Twins......................................75

Mountain High Deli...............................87

Chase International/Incline Village/Tahoe City

Granlibakken........................................49

Mountain Home Center..........................85

........................................Cover 3/North

Heavenly Lake Tahoe.............................80

Northstar at Tahoe.................................40

Chase International/South Lake Tahoe...........

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino......................45

Northstar at Tahoe.................................41

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Serving Lake Tahoe and the surrounding areas with the integrity, commitment and leadership you expect from an industry leader. Š2015 First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. | NYSE: FAF

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DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS CONTINUED Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation.......92 Pet Network Humane Society..................33 Pinnacle Real Estate...............................68

187 Reasons Tahoe City is the

Powder House Ski & Snowboard.............44

Best Mountain Town in America .... and growing!

Reno Tahoe Rustic Decor.........................66

Thanks to the 187 businesses that have chosen to be part of the Tahoe City Downtown Association, we’re proud to offer great community events all year round:

Scusa Italian Ristorante...........................88

• First Fridays

• Snowfest!

• Lake Tahoe Dance Collective

• Concerts at Commons Beach

• Alpenglow Mountain Festival

• Farmers Market

• Solstice Festival with Wine Walk • 4th of July Fireworks and Beach Bash

Rookies Inc...........................................82 Sears Authorized Store...........................79

• Oktoberfest

Sidestreet Boutique................................11

• And more, all year round!

Sierra Nevada Properties..........................8 Sierra Sotheby's International Realty............1 Sierra Sotheby's International Realty ............................ Cover 2/North & South

Come experience Tahoe City today!

Sierra Verde Group................................72 Sierra Verde Group................................73

VisitTahoeCity.org I (530) 583-3348 I info@visittahoecity.com

Live. Work. Play. Visit.

Camp Richardson & Marina and Beacon Bar & Grill...............................3 Sorensen's Resort...................................93 South Tahoe Public Utility Dis...................14 Sugar Bowl Resort.................................37 Surefoot...............................................21 T's Mesquite Rotisserie............................23 Tahoe Cakes by Grace..........................19 Tahoe City Downtown Assoc.................104

Dr. Karen Kucharski, D.M.D. Dr. David Lacy, D.D.S.

Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area.................49 Tahoe Donner Association.......................38 Tahoe Mountain Resorts Real Estate.............7

Comprehensive Dentistry Now offering nitrous oxide sedation

Tahoe Oil and Spice..............................71 Tahoe Real Estate Group.........................12 Tahoe Sport Fishing...............................25

530.546.5678

Terry Lee Wells Discovery Museum...........24

Monday-Thursday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am-12:00 pm

The Fresh Ketch.....................................96

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The Bar Effect.......................................23 The Tree House.....................................19 The Village Center.................................28 TNT TMA............................................18 Truckee Donner Park & Rec......................42 Truckee-Tahoe Medical Group.................51 Truckee-Tahoe Pet Lodge.........................69 Village Ski Loft......................................51 West Lake Properties..............................33

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775 750 2190

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