February 5 to 11, 2020

feb. 5-11, 2020

NOW ON STANDS

WEDNESDAYS!

KIRKWOOD’S MAGICAL

BACK COUNTRY DONNER SKI RANCH FUTURE IS BRIGHT AT FAMILY-OWNED RESORT

LOVELY WEATHER FOR A SLEIGH RIDE TOGETHER // THE ART OF MAKING FRESH PASTA // THE HUMOROUS MAGIC OF JOEL WARD //

fun. unique. everywhere.

SKI FOR LESS THAN ANY 4 DAYS OF THE 2019/20 SEASON

$113 /DAY

SQUAWALPINE.COM/TS4

GRAND REOPENING! Come celebrate on Friday, February 14, and Saturday, February 15!

Get a 6-inch sub for 99¢ with purchase of a 30 oz. drink (valid only on 2/14/20 and 2/15/20).

950 N Lake Blvd Suite 101 Safeway Shopping Center Tahoe City, CA 96145 *Next to CVS Offer valid at this location for in-restaurant orders only on 2/14/2020 and 2/15/2020.

Sub shown with customized recipe. Additional charge for Extras. Plus applicable tax.

No additional discounts or coupons may be applied.

Subway® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP LLC. © 2020 Subway IP LLC.

SEE BELOW FOR 6 GREAT OFFERS.

FREE

FREE

Buy a sub and any drink, get a sub of equal or lesser price free.

Extras at additional cost.*

FREE

Buy a sub and any drink, get a sub of equal or lesser price free.

Extras at additional cost.*

Buy a sub and any drink, get a sub of equal or lesser price free.

Extras at additional cost.*

Not valid on Sub of the Day™ or $2.99 Oven Roasted Chicken 6-inch Subs.

Expires 03/20/2020

Not valid on Sub of the Day™ or $2.99 Oven Roasted Chicken 6-inch Subs.

Expires 03/20/2020

Not valid on Sub™ of the Day or $2.99 Oven Roasted Chicken 6-inch Subs.

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*Free sub excludes Extras. Valid at 950 N Lake Blvd, Suite 101, Tahoe City, CA 96145 restaurant for in-restaurant orders only.

Excludes Signature Wraps. Not valid on Delivery. Plus applicable tax. No cash value. Not for sale. Coupon must be surrendered with purchase. One time use. One coupon per qualifying item(s).

Void if transferred, sold, auctioned, reproduced, purchased or altered, and where prohibited. Cannot be combined with promotional offers. Subway® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP LLC. © 2020 Subway IP LLC.

*Free sub excludes Extras. Valid at 950 N Lake Blvd, Suite 101, Tahoe City, CA 96145 restaurant for in-restaurant orders only.

Excludes Signature Wraps. Not valid on Delivery. Plus applicable tax. No cash value. Not for sale. Coupon must be surrendered with purchase. One time use. One coupon per qualifying item(s).

Void if transferred, sold, auctioned, reproduced, purchased or altered, and where prohibited. Cannot be combined with promotional offers. Subway® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP LLC. © 2020 Subway IP LLC.

*Free sub excludes Extras. Valid at 950 N Lake Blvd, Suite 101, Tahoe City, CA 96145 restaurant for in-restaurant orders only.

Excludes Signature Wraps. Not valid on Delivery. Plus applicable tax. No cash value. Not for sale. Coupon must be surrendered with purchase. One time use. One coupon per qualifying item(s).

Void if transferred, sold, auctioned, reproduced, purchased or altered, and where prohibited. Cannot be combined with promotional offers. Subway® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP LLC. © 2020 Subway IP LLC.

5

Get a $ footlong for

99

Get a footlong for

5

$

99

Get a footlong for

5

$

99

Not valid on Sub of the Day™.

Expires 03/20/2020

Not valid on Sub of the Day™.

Expires 03/20/2020

Not valid on Sub of the Day™.

Expires 03/20/2020

Valid at 950 N Lake Blvd, Suite 101, Tahoe City, CA 96145 restaurant for in-restaurant orders only. Excludes Signature Wraps. Not valid on Delivery. Additional charge for Extras.

Plus applicable tax. No cash value. Not for sale. Coupon must be surrendered with purchase. One time use. One coupon per qualifying item(s). Void if transferred, sold, auctioned, reproduced, purchased or altered, and where prohibited. Cannot be combined with promotional offers. Subway® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP LLC. © 2020 Subway IP LLC.

Valid at 950 N Lake Blvd, Suite 101, Tahoe City, CA 96145 restaurant for in-restaurant orders only. Excludes Signature Wraps. Not valid on Delivery. Additional charge for Extras.

Plus applicable tax. No cash value. Not for sale. Coupon must be surrendered with purchase. One time use. One coupon per qualifying item(s). Void if transferred, sold, auctioned, reproduced, purchased or altered, and where prohibited. Cannot be combined with promotional offers. Subway® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP LLC. © 2020 Subway IP LLC.

Valid at 950 N Lake Blvd, Suite 101, Tahoe City, CA 96145 restaurant for in-restaurant orders only. Excludes Signature Wraps. Not valid on Delivery. Additional charge for Extras.

Plus applicable tax. No cash value. Not for sale. Coupon must be surrendered with purchase. One time use. One coupon per qualifying item(s). Void if transferred, sold, auctioned, reproduced, purchased or altered, and where prohibited. Cannot be combined with promotional offers. Subway® is a Registered Trademark of Subway IP LLC. © 2020 Subway IP LLC.

local. independent. fresh.

TheTahoeWeekly.com

17

Volume 39 | Issue 3 TM

P.O. Box 87 | Tahoe City, CA 96145 (530) 546-5995 | f (530) 546-8113 TheTahoeWeekly.com Facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly @TheTahoeWeekly

SUBMISSIONS Events & Entertainment Submit at TheTahoeWeekly.com Click on Events Calendar Editorial Inquiries editor@tahoethisweek.com

08 14 in this issue Donner Ski Ranch

7

Kirkwood Back Country

8

Squaw Valley Celebrates 70 Years

11

OUT & ABOUT

TAHOE’S INDEPENDENT SKI RESORTS FROM THE PUBLISHER

5

Sightseeing 6 Events 10

FAMILY FUN Sleigh Rides at Sand Harbor

12

For the Kids

13

ARTS & CULTURE Alice Henderson 14 The Arts 15 FUN & GAMES 16

MUSIC SCENE The Magic of Joel Ward

17

Entertainment Calendar & Live Music

17

LOCAL FLAVOR The Art of Making Pasta

20

Wine Column

21

Tasty Tidbits

22

Chef’s Recipe

23

There’s been a burgeoning movement over the last several years celebrating local, independent products, fare and businesses from Shop Local to Eat Local to everything in between. That started a conversation between Priya Hutner and me last year about how local ski resorts that are independently owned and operated are faring as more ski resorts are owned by large conglomerates with properties spanning the globe.

As a result, Priya and writer Kayla Anderson will be talking to locally owned and operated ski resorts in the Tahoe Sierra this season about how they stay independent and what that means to their ski areas.

For this edition, Priya talked to Janet and Marshall Tuttle, the couple that owns Donner Ski Ranch, one of two family-owned ski resorts in Tahoe (the other is Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe) for her feature “Donner Ski Ranch: Future is bright at family-owned resort.”

Tahoe Weekly still local, independent Since 1982, when the late David Mogilefsky founded Tahoe Weekly, the magazine has been locally owned and produced by locals. As one of the few independent media outlets in the Tahoe Sierra, I’m committed to keeping the focus on Tahoe, produced by Tahoe locals in Tahoe, which isn’t always easy in today’s business climate.

Competition is tough out there for advertising dollars, which is how we pay our locals, and, frankly, there’s a lot of crap out there. As you peruse the racks at the store, in your hotel lobby and around the community, you’re bombarded by an amazing amount of print selling everything from real estate to Web sites (am I the only one that sees the irony in Web sites putting out print magazines?).

There’s a lot of junk out there in the publishing world today, but once you weed through it, what remains are magazines and newspapers with relevant, fresh, interesting and local coverage. And, the good stuff, the stuff you tuck under your arm to take home, is worth your time.

You’ll also find the really good stuff is produced locally by independent media outlets like Tahoe Weekly. So, thanks for reading Tahoe Weekly.

Keep Tahoe Print Local and Shop Tahoe. n

ON THE COVER Rider Claire Hewitt-Demeyer enjoys the terrain at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. Explore the skiing and riding at Kirkwood, as writer Sean McAlindin recently did for his story on “Kirkwood’s Magical Back Country” in this edition and at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Photography by Emily Tidwell | Kirkwood.com, @KirkwoodMtn

4

MAKING IT HAPPEN Publisher & Editor In Chief Katherine E. Hill publisher@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 102 Sales & Marketing Manager Anne Artoux anne@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 110

Graphic Designer Justeen Ferguson graphics@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 101

FEATURES

Horoscope & Puzzles

Cover Photography production@tahoethisweek.com

Art Director Alyssa Ganong production@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 106

FEBRUARY 5-11, 2020

Lake Tahoe Facts

Courtesy Alice Henderson

Entertainment Inquiries entertainment@tahoethisweek.com

Entertainment Editor Sean McAlindin entertainment@tahoethisweek.com Food Editor Priya Hutner priya@tahoethisweek.com Family Editor Michelle Allen michelle@tahoethisweek.com Copy Editor Katrina Veit Contributing Writers John Dee, Barbara Keck, Bruce Ajari, Mark McLaughlin, David “Smitty” Smith, Priya Hutner, Katrina Veit, Kayla Anderson, Lou Phillips, Sean McAlindin, Tim Hauserman, Alex Green, Lisa Michelle, Cam Schilling, Alex Silgalis

TAHOE WEEKLY is published weekly throughout the summer and biweekly the rest of the year, with occassional extra issues at holiday times by Range of Light Media Group, Inc. Look for new issues on Thursdays.

Subscribe to the free digital edition at issuu.com/ TheTahoeWeekly. Visit TheTahoeWeekly.com.

TAHOE WEEKLY, est. 1982, ©2007. Reproduction in whole or in part without publisher’s express permission is prohibited. Contributions welcome via e-mail. The Weekly is not responsible for unsolicited submissions. Member: North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, North Tahoe Business Association, Incline Community Business Association, Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce, Tahoe City Downtown Association, Truckee Downtown Merchants Association, Tahoe South Chamber of Commerce and Alpine County Chamber of Commerce. Printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks. Please recycle your copy.

… the mighty Sierra, miles in height, and so gloriously colored and so radiant, it seemed not clothed with light but wholly composed of it, like the wall of some celestial city... Then it seemed to me that the Sierra should be called, not the Nevada or Snowy Range, but the Range of Light.

–John Muir

February 5-11, 2020

LAKE TAHOE FACTS | CLAIR TAPPAAN

Donner Summit

Truckee Donner Lake

TRUCKEE AIRPORT

DONNER MEMORIAL STATE PARK

h Ta

SUGAR BOWL

DOWNHILL SKI AREAS

ra Rim T

ALPINE MEADOWS

Ta h o e R i m

CASINOS

Average depth: 1,000 feet

DEEPEST POINT

TAHOE CROSS COUNTRY

Dollar Hill Tahoe City

Lake

GRANKLIBAKKEN

Spooner Lake

Tahoe

l

Eagle Rock

NEVADA NORDIC

Glenbrook o Ta h

HOMEWOOD

e Ri

at

m Tr a i l

Tahoma

SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK

Meeks Bay

Emerald Bay

Fannette Island

Average Water Temperature: 42.1˚F Cascade Lake

Average Surface Water Temperature: 51.9˚F

Zephyr Cove

Size: 22 miles long, 12 miles wide

South Lake Tahoe

Ta h oe

R i m Tr ail

Average Snowfall: 409 inches

Stateline

BIJOU PARK / LAKE TAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Fallen Leaf Lake

Meyers

LAKE TAHOE AIRPORT

FREEL PEAK

ECHO LAKES

Permanent Population: 66,000

Lake Tahoe is as long as the English Channel is wide.

HEAVENLY CAMP RICHARDSON

Average Surface Temperature in July: 64.9˚F Highest Peak: Freel Peak at 10,881 feet

Natural rim: 6,223’

Cave Rock

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Watershed Area: 312 square miles

Volume: 39 trillion gallons

Lake Tahoe sits at an average elevation of between 6,223’ and 6,229.1’.

The top 6.1’ of water is controlled by the dam in Tahoe City and holds up to 744,600 acre feet of water.

CA

Age of Lake Tahoe: 2 million years

Carson City

Lake Tahoe is the 2nd deepest lake in the U.S. (Crater Lake in Oregon, at 1,932 feet, is the deepest), and the 11th deepest in the world.

There is enough water in Lake Tahoe to supply everyone in the United States with more than 75 gallons of water per day for 5 years.

Homewood

Learn about the natural history of the Tahoe Sierra

Maximum depth: 1,645 feet

Marlette Lake

NV

Sunnyside ai Tr

Crystal Bay

Kings Beach

Carnelian Bay

SNO-PARKS

Lake Clarity: 2018: 70.9 feet avg. depth.

1968: First recorded at 102.4 feet

Incline Village

Tahoe Vista

TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK

SQUAW CREEK

DIAMOND PEAK

NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK

Olympic Valley SQUAW VALLEY

oe

N

WEST EAST SOUTH

Lake Tahoe is located in the states of California and Nevada, with two-thirds in California.

NORTHSTAR

Truckee River

CROSS-COUNTRY SKI AREAS

MT. ROSE

RENO-TAHOE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

DONNER SKI RANCH

ROYAL GORGE

SKY TAVERN

il

SODA SPRINGS

BOREAL

Reno & Sparks

TAHOE DONNER

AUBURN SKI TRAINING CENTER

Read about how the lake was formed, Lake Tahoe’s discovery, lake clarity and more at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on Explore Tahoe.

Number of Visitors: 3 million annually Kirkwood

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

HOPE VALLEY

Markleeville

Shoreline: 72 miles Lake Tahoe has a surface area of 191 square miles. If Lake Tahoe were emptied, it would submerge California under 15 inches of water.

Why is the lake blue?

The Lake of the Sky appears blue in color as other colors in the light spectrum are absorbed and the blue light is scattered back.

KIRKWOOD

5

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Eagle Rock

West Shore

Eagle Rock, one of the lake’s famous natural sites, is a volcanic plug beside Highway 89 on the West Shore. TART

Explore Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe

(530) 542-2908 | cityofslt.us Urban Trailhead at base of Heavenly Gondola with local exhibits and programs. South Tahoe

Fannette Island

Emerald Bay

(530) 541-3030 | parks.ca.gov Lake Tahoe’s only island is located in Emerald Bay & is home to an old tea house. Boat access only. (Closed Feb. 1-June 15 for nesting birds.)

northtahoebusiness.org Kings Beach is a popular spot for dining and shopping with the North Shore’s largest sandy beach located in the heart of town. Free parking at North Tahoe Beach, Brook Street, Minnow and the Christmas Tree lot on Hwy. 28. TART

Find more places to explore at

TheTahoeWeekly.com

North Tahoe Arts Center

Tahoe City

Free (530) 581-2787 | northtahoearts.com Featuring exhibits of work by local artists and works for sale by local artists. TART

Tahoe Art League Gallery South Lake Tahoe (530) 544-2313 | talart.org Featuring local artists, workshops. South Tahoe

Tahoe City

North Shore

(775) 586-7000 | skiheavenly.com Enjoy a 2.4-mile ride on the gondola to the top with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley. South Tahoe

visittahoecity.com Tahoe City is popular for shopping and dining with historical sites. At the junction of highways 89 & 28, visitors may see the Tahoe City Dam, Lake Tahoe’s only outlet, and Fanny Bridge. Peer into Watson Cabin (1909) in the center of town for a glimpse at pioneer life. Free parking at Commons Beach, Grove Street, Jackpine Street, and 64 acres at Highways 89 & 28. TART

Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

Tallac Historic Site

Heavenly

South Lake Tahoe

West Shore

$10 parking | parks.ca.gov (530) 525-7232 Park | (530) 583-9911 Tours Sugar Pine Point State Park is home to the historic Ehrman Mansion (open for tours in the summer), see boathouses with historic boats, and General Phipps Cabin built in the late 1800s. TART

South Lake Tahoe

(530) 541-5227 | tahoeheritage.org Once known as the “Grandest Resort in the World” as the summer retreat for three San Francisco elite families with the Baldwin Estate, Pope Estate & Valhalla. Grounds open yearround. South Tahoe

RESERVOIR CAPACITY C PACITY CITY:: 40 0,870 ,8 BOCA 12,362 CAPA

Truckee

6,227.45 |

IN 2018:

Measured in Acre Feet (AF)

Old Jail Museum

C 226,500 STAMPEDE 19,9661 CAPACITY: truckeehistory.org | truckee.com The historic town of Truckee was settled CAPACITY: 29,840 PROSSER 11,061 in 1863, and grew quickly as a stagecoach CAPACITY: C 9,500 50Pacific Railroad.

DONNER 4,690 stop and route for the Central During these early days, many of Truckee’s INDEPENDENCE 1,3763 CCAPACITY: 18,300 historical homes and buildings were built including The Truckee (1868) and the Capitol CAPACITY: A Hotel 20,400 0 MARTIS 1,052 Building (1868). Stop by the Depot for a walking tour of historic downtown. Paid parking downtown. TART River | FLOW AT FARAD 3650 Truckee

6,227.08 Truckee

(530) 582-0893 | truckeehistory.org One of a few surviving 19th Century jailhouses of its kind in the West used from 1875 until May 1964 (open for tours in summer). TART

Olympic Museum

Olympic Valley

(800) 403-0206 | squawalpine.com Squaw Valley, host of the VIII Winter Olympic Games in 1960, celebrates its OlympicTROA.NET History Measured in Cubic Feet Per Second (CFS) with the symbolic Tower of Nations and Olympic Flame at the entrance to the valley. The Vikingsholm Castle Emerald Bay Olympic Museum at High Camp features historic Parking fee | Tours in summer only memorabilia and photographs. TART (530) 541-3030 | (530) 525-9529 ADA parks.ca.gov or vikingsholm.com Tahoe Maritime Museum Tahoe City Tour the grounds of Vikingsholm Castle, see (530) 583-9283 | tahoemaritimemuseum.org Eagle Falls and Fannette Island (the Lake’s only island), home to an old Tea House, and explore Featuring self-guided tours, exhibits and hands-on activities for kids on maritime snowshoeing trails. TART history. TART

Watson Cabin

Tahoe City

Tours in summer only (530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org Watson Cabin, built by Robert Watson and his son in 1909, is the oldest building in Tahoe City and on the National Register of Historic Places. TART

MUSEUMS Truckee

(530) 582-7892 | parks.ca.gov The Donner Memorial State Park features exhibits and artifacts on the Donner Party (184647) at the visitor center, and see the towering Pioneer Monument. TART

Soda Springs

donnersummithistoricalsociety.org Museum at the corner of Old Highway 40 & Soda Springs Road. Take the 20-mile interpretive driving tour along Old 40. TART

Gatekeeper’s Museum

Tahoe Science Center

Incline Village

Tues.-Fri. & by appt. | Free (775) 881-7566 | tahoesciencecenter.org University of California, Davis, science education center at Sierra Nevada College. Exhibits include a virtual research boat, biology lab, 3D movies and docent-led tours. Ages 8+. TART

Truckee Railroad Museum

Donner Memorial Visitor Center

Donner Summit Historical Society

225

North Shore

ELEVATION :

200,000 AF

Donner Summit, just west of Truckee, holds the record for the United States’ snowiest April.

On April 1, 1880, a storm dumped 4’ of snow on the Sierra Nevada west slope within 24 hours.

A massive snow slide near Emigrant Gap buried Central Pacific Railroad’s tracks under 75’ of snow, ice and rock. For the rest of the month, storm cycles continued to flow in, dropping a total of 298”.

Kings Beach

Readings taken on Thursday, January 30, 2020

175

Truckee

(800) 403-0206 | squawalpine.com Aerial tram rides with views of Lake Tahoe, Olympic Heritage Museum, ice skating, events and more. Ticket required. TART

LAKE LEVEL Lake Tahoe Natural rim 6,223’

150,000 AF

Donner Summit

Olympic Valley

125

Drive through one of the area’s natural wonders at Cave Rock, the neck of an old volcano. The area is named for the small caves above Highway 50 that were cut by waves when Lake Tahoe was 200 feet higher during the ice ages.

High Camp

100,000 AF

East Shore

75

Cave Rock

Even a winter day is a great day to enjoy Lake Tahoe’s beaches, like at Sand Harbor State Park on the East Shore. | Katherine E. Hill

50

ATTRACTIONS

25

SIGHTSEEING

Tahoe City

Daily (530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org Featuring historic photos, the Steinbach Indian Basket Museum and local historical memorabilia. TART

Truckee

Sat.-Sun. & holidays truckeedonnerrailroadsociety.com Located in a caboose next to the Truckee Depot. Exhibits include the train’s role in logging, fighting snow on the railway, the role of Chinese emigrants and a children’s area. TART

Western SkiSport Museum

Donner Summit

Fri.-Sun. | Free (530) 426-3313, ext. 113 | auburnskiclub.org Showcasing the history of skiing, exhibits include snowshoes from the 1850s, ski equipment from the 20th Century and a pair of 8-footlong skis used by John “Snowshoe” Thompson, a legendary mail carrier. TART

VISITORS’ CENTERS Kings Beach Kings Beach State Rec. Area (Thurs.-Mon., summer)

Incline Village 969 Tahoe Blvd. (800) 468-2463

KidZone Children’s Museum

Truckee

Tues.-Sun. | Locals’ first Tues. half price (530) 587-5437 | kidzonemuseum.org For kids up to age 7 with interactive exhibits, science & art classes, the BabyZone & the Jungle Gym. TART

Lake Tahoe Museum

South Lake Tahoe

(530) 541-5458 | laketahoemuseum.org Features Washoe artifacts and exhibits on early industry and settlers. South Tahoe

Stateline 169 Hwy. 50 (775) 588-4591 Tahoe City 100 N. Lake Blvd. (530) 581-6900 Truckee 10065 Donner Pass Rd. (Depot) (530) 587-8808 U.S. Forest Service | Incline Village 855 Alder Ave. (775) 831-0914 (Wed.-Fri.)

U.S. Forest Service | South Lake Tahoe 35 College Dr. (530) 543-2600

U.S. Forest Service | Tahoe City 3080 N. Lake Blvd. (530) 583-3593 (Fridays)

TRANSIT Boots McFarland by Geolyn Carvin | BootsMcFarland.com 6

North Tahoe & Truckee (TART) | laketahoetransit.com South Tahoe | tahoetransportation.org

U.S. Forest Service | Truckee 10811 Stockrest Springs Rd. (530) 587-3558

Out

OUTDOORS & RECREATION, EVENTS & MORE Explore more events in the Tahoe Sierra or submit your event for free at TheTahoeWeekly.com

Recycle

climbing ropes

&ABOUT

FUTURE IS BRIGHT AT F A M I LY- O W N E D R E S O R T

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT Check out the 2019-20 Tahoe Downhill Ski & Nordic Ski guides.

S T O R Y B Y P R I YA H U T N E R

I

t was overcast when I head up the summit to ski at Donner Ski Ranch. The previous night’s dusting of snow lies gently on the hill. I have passed the mountain a hundred times, yet never skied there. My friend Karen Zazzi and I hop on the chair lift as the sun tries to eke out through the haze. We ski up the lift and are astonished that we have much of the backside of the mountain to ourselves. With sweeping views, we shush around the hill taking in the majesty of our backyard. Who knew?

There are currently 471 operating ski areas in the U.S., according to the National Ski Areas Association. Corporations and holding companies own most of these resorts. But there are a few that are still

“People don’t realize we have as much terrain as we do. They come here when the big resorts are packed and ski the backside.”

–Day Franzen

Humane Society of Truckee Tahoe is accepting old climbing rope, which can be transformed into leashes for newly adopted dogs. The Ropes for Rescues recycling program was set up by Dog Patch SF. Rope may be donated at 10961 Stevens Lane in Truckee. | (530) 5875948, hstt.org

New

wildlife learning center A new Outdoor Learning Center will be built this summer at the Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care’s new 27-acre property in South Lake Tahoe thanks to grants from the Tahoe Fund and Tahoe Blue Vodka. Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care has a long history of rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing more than 16,000 of Tahoe’s injured and orphaned wildlife. The new Outdoor Learning Center will expand the group’s ability to educate locals and visitors and increase wildlife stewardship. | ltwc.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

OUT & ABOUT

Donner Ski Ranch

Email news to editor@tahoethisweek.com

TheTahoeWeekly.com

February 5-11, 2020

Sign with Donner Ski Ranch’s elevation and view from the top of Chair Lift 3. | Courtesy Donner Ski Ranch

independent or family owned. In the Tahoe region, there are 16 downhill ski resorts, of which seven are owned by a family, the community or by homeowners: Donner Ski Ranch and Sugar Bowl Ski Resort in Truckee, Tahoe Donner Downhill, Granlibakken in Tahoe City, and Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, Sky Tavern and Diamond Peak Ski Resort in Nevada.

Donner Ski Ranch is one of the oldest ski resorts in the area. In 1937, Jerry Ellis installed a rope tow on what would eventually become Donner Ski Ranch. After World War II, Stanley and Madeline Walton built the lodge and T-bar and gave Donner Ski Ranch its name. Norm Sayler, who still lives on the summit, helped build the first chair lift at Donner Ski Ranch in 1955 and eventually took over the resort in 1958. He ran it for 46 years, while slowly acquiring most of the ownership.

In 2004, Janet and Marshall Tuttle purchased the resort and have been making improvements to the property ever since.

The couple also owns Tahoe Vista Lodge & Cabins and Rustic Cottages on the North Shore.

Karen Zazzi and Priya Hutner on the backside of Donner Ski Ranch. | Courtesy Priya Hutner

“It wasn’t my idea to buy Donner Ski Ranch. It was my husband’s idea. It’s been a crazy adventure. Marshall loves old, historic places and he wanted to bring it back to its grander days,” says Janet Tuttle.

“We want to keep the resort an affordable, family-friendly place to ski.”

Donner Ski Ranch was also one of the first resorts to allow snowboarding on the mountain.

“Donner Ski Ranch became a home for snowboarders in the area. Guys who were snowboarding back in the 80s and 90s come back with their families and say it’s like coming home,” says Day Franzen, the resort’s general manager.

Franzen was hired three years ago; he came to the resort with many years of experience in the ski industry. The Tuttles are thrilled with him and his leadership.

“People don’t realize we have as much terrain as we do. They come here when the big resorts are packed and ski the backside,” Franzen says.

People heading up the lift at Donner Ski Ranch. | Courtesy Donner Ski Ranch

Donner Ski Resort has been independently owned for 83 years and has retained its independence. As the owners, the Tuttles can make decisions such as allow film shoots or open an 18-hole disc-golf course, which they did last summer. The resort hosts unique events year-round, including dirt-biking races, rock crawls and motorcycle events, according to Franzen.

Every bit of money made goes back into to improving Donner Ski Ranch, such as remodeling the main lodge.

“It was built in the 40s. It needs some help,” says Tuttle.

The couple also plans to rebuild the day lodge on the backside of the mountain; it burned down three years ago.

Old 40 Bar & Grill at Donner Ski Ranch has become a locals’ hangout where many who work on the summit, including Sugar Bowl employees, gather, says Franzen.

Chef Scott Van Every came on board a few years ago and has made a difference in the food. Tuttle makes pies for the restaurant and has gained quite a reputation for her delectable baked goods. It’s known among Pacific Coast Trail hikers that Old 40 Bar & Grill is the place to stop for a slice of pie.

“We are very fortunate to have a great staff. Everyone is like family. I think that compared to other ski resorts, we can make things happen quickly and don’t have to deal with bureaucracy. We are both hands on. I do the bookkeeping and baking, and my husband runs the lifts, fixes anything and does whatever is needed. He’s like the wind; everywhere all the time,” says Tuttle.

“The future is bright. There is a resurgence of people who want to ski at a smaller resort and not spend $1,000 a day for the family,” says Franzen.

I loved skiing at Donner Ski Ranch.

I met the co-owner Marshall Tuttle, who was shepherding folks onto the chair lift.

And afterwards, I tried the pie, and it was delicious. | donnerskiranch.com n

7

FEATURE

TheTahoeWeekly.com

KIRKWOOD’S MAGICAL

BACK COUNTRY STORY BY SEAN McALINDIN

ave you ever thought about exploring the mountains beyond the resort boundary? But maybe you weren’t sure how safe it would be

If you’ve never done a human-powered tour of the back country, Kirkwood is one of the best places at which you could start. The terrain is moderate and easy to access either from the adjacent ski lifts or the base of the mountain.

Andrew DeGuzman drops into untouched powder in Sunshine Bowl. | Sean McAlindin

8

or even how to go about it?

AS BACK-COUNTRY SKIING continues to grow in popularity, so does the need for proper instruction in this exhilarating, yet, potentially dangerous sport.

As one of the few ski resorts in North America to offer guided back-country touring and avalanche training, Kirkwood Mountain Resort in the Carson Range 30 miles beyond South Lake Tahoe is an exceptional place in which to take your first skin beyond the gates.

I get my morning coffee in Truckee at 6:30 a.m. on a Wednesday in January and leave for Kirkwood, a two-hour trip. The sun rises over the lake and the only traffic on State Route 89 is the local school bus picking up students in the morning twilight.

The drive is so serenely beautiful, before I know it I’m at the base of the mountain where Expedition Kirkwood stations its guided back-country ski and splitboard tours. The areas we’ll be traversing are just beyond the resort boundary and not maintained by Kirkwood ski patrol. Avalanches and variable terrain are always a possibility, so we need to be prepared.

Back-country travel requires some additional gear including climbing skins, a shovel, probe and rescue beacon. All of these items, as well as back-country skis and splitboards, are available for rent at Expedition Kirkwood.

I’ll be touring today with my personal guide Andrew DeGuzman, who carries with him a first-aid kit and two-way radio — just in case. Fortunately, I’m an experienced back-country telemark skier and over the years I’ve taken many friends out for their first trip.

I can honestly say, if you’ve never done a humanpowered tour of the back country, Kirkwood is one of the best places at which you could start. The terrain is moderate and easy to access either from the adjacent ski lifts or the base of the mountain. Although it seems isolated enough, it’s never actually that far from civilization.

Snow Beyond the Gates We begin our day with a smooth ride up Chair 11, The Reut, and into Wagon Wheel Bowl. The corduroy looks so seamless on this quiet midweek day that we decide to warm up on the lift-line groomer before venturing to the backside. By the time we get to Chair 4, Sunrise, the ski patrol is just opening the area for the first time since Mother Nature gifted us with a few fresh inches the day before. A couple of tranquil, yet, energizing laps down untouched, windbuffed powder has my mind awake and my legs ready to climb.

A short jaunt up Chair 3, Iron Horse, takes us to the ridge overlooking 7,776-foot Kirkwood Meadow.

We strap on our skins, cross the resort boundary and begin a moderate half-hour hike to the summit of Red Cliffs. For first timers beyond the ropes, this is really the perfect introductory climb. It’s easy and mellow with opportunities to head back in-bounds at any point.

Rounding the corner of the volcanic bluffs, we take our skins off and drop into the west-facing slope that

February 5-11, 2020

ADULT TICKETs Sean McAlindin traverses the ridge below Martin Point. | Andrew DeGuzman

leads back to the village. Although it’s been windy and cold lately, we find a few inches of untouched fresh snow in the lee banks of the gully.

It’s like riding an asymmetrical half pipe sculpted by Aeolus, Greek god of the winds.

After lunch at the quaint General Store, which offers fresh deli sandwiches and the like, Andrew and I are fueled up and ready to roll. We ride Chair 6, Cornice, to the summit ridge above Sentinel Bowl and traverse to Glove Rock where a boot-pack climb leads to the out-of-bounds Thun-

starting at

FEATURE

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KIDS SKI FREE

6 & UNDER

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$20 off adult ticket

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Purchase lift tickets & rentals online: DiamondPeak.com

SKI OR RIDE FOR FREE Sean McAlindin drops into the open gullies beyond Red Cliffs. | Andrew DeGuzman

der Bowl. Conditions up high today are marginal, so we rip down Rabbit Runs and Squirrel Ridge to the west end of the resort to begin our second back-country lap.

Skinning alongside the edge of Timber Creek beginner area and into the forest, the sound of the chairlift slowly recedes in the distance as we make our way through the lofty, silent glades of Reuter Bowl. Our destination is the exposed ridge below Martin Point. The northeastern aspect here is sheltered and the snow is soft, lightly faceted and at least a foot deep on top.

Crossing an ancient avalanche gully and looking into the towering conifers above, I am awestruck once again by the enchanted beauty of the Tahoe Sierra. Although cliff drops, narrow chutes and tear-jerking downhill runs get the heart pumping, it’s this magical silence and sacred commune with the Earth and all the wild and secretive beings within it that keeps me coming back season after season.

A steep, final push beneath the bulbous fairy-tale crags of Twin Sentinels leads to a breathtaking ridge where we inhale views from the Coast Range to the Pacific Crest to the Great Basin. Once again, we take off our skins, drink water and access our options for descent. Andrew and I make a plan to skirt the right side of the gully we’d crossed on our way up before veering into the numinous glades. There are no tracks in the vast terrain below us except for our own. We’ve earned our turns and they belong to no one else but us. I close my eyes, take a deep breath and drop in. | kirkwood.com n

Purchase a CA or NV Tahoe license plate and get one free Alpine or Nordic ticket to the Tahoe resort of your choice*. For more information or to purchase your license plate online, visit tahoeplates.com.

Jeremy Jones pro snowboarder big mountain freerider

*restrictions apply

9

OUT & ABOUT

TheTahoeWeekly.com

EVENTS Ski with a Ranger

Twilight Snowshoe Tours

Heavenly Mountain | South Lake Tahoe | Feb. 7

Northstar California Resort Truckee | Feb. 8

Tours begin at Tamarack Lodge, at the top of the Heavenly Gondola every Friday at 1 p.m. The tours last approximately one hour.

Weather permitting. 1 p.m. Free | (775) 5867000, fs.usda.gov

Courtesy Homewood Mountain Resort

First Friday at Five

First crack at first tracks Early birds looking for the freshest snow can take advantage of First Tracks Breakfast at Homewood Mountain Resort on Feb. 9. Participants can load Madden Chair from 8 to 8:30 a.m. and take laps on Old Homewood Express before the slopes open to the public at 9 a.m. Grab a breakfast burrito at the bottom of Madden Chair; Big Blue View Bar will be open from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. for hot chocolate and coffee.

First Tracks Breakfasts are free for all season passholders or $99 for non-passholders, which includes an all-day lift ticket and breakfast. Space is limited so sign up early. Also offered on March 1. | Register skihomewood.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

Conversation Cafe

Curling rink

Incline Rec Center | Incline Village | Feb. 6

Join this drop-in forum with Incline Senior Program. Meet others and share interesting views, have discussion on engaging topics.

And optional continental breakfast is available.

10-11 a.m. $0-$5 | yourtahoeplace.com

opens

The Physics of Snow Courtesy Lake Tahoe Epic Curling

Alder Creek Adventure Center | Truckee | Feb. 6

Lake Tahoe Epic Curling has opened its own curling rink in Stateline, Nev., and is accepting member. The rink features two curling sheets, a warm room, bar and locker rooms. The rink is open to only open to members who have curling exp-erience but Learn to Curl workshops are being offered, with the next one on Feb. 16. | laketahoecurling.com

Enter Polar

Bear Swim

Gar Woods Grill and Pier is hosting SnowFest!’s coolest event: the 32nd Annual Polar Bear Swim on Feb. 29 at 2:30 p.m. with categories for men and women; participants must be 18 years old.

The course is approximately 250 yards and the waters are frigid. Entry is $30 before Feb. 28 or $35 on the day of the swim. | Enter garwoods.com/calendar 10

Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Speaker Series presents “The Physics of Snow,” presented by Bernhard Bach, a scientist whose background is in the field of diffractive and reflective optics. Light appetizers will be served. 4:30-6 p.m. $5 | (530) 587-9400, tahoedonner.com

Entrepreneurs Assembly Startup Roundtable Lake Tahoe Yoga | Zephyr Cove | Feb. 6

Join Entrepreneurs Assembly for a great professional networking and growth opportunity.

The roundtables provide you an integrated, systemic plan and path toward your successful business launch and provide you the best practices for navigating the hurdles in creating a successful business. 5:30-8:30 p.m. | eventbrite.com

Free Community Breakfast Parasol Foundation | Incline Village | Feb. 7

The Lift | Truckee | Feb. 7

A program of Tahoe Silicon Mountain, is a monthly entrepreneur’s meetup. It is an opportunity to share what you are working on and ask for/offer insights and resource suggestions to solve problems. 5 p.m. | facebook.com

Friday Fun Nights Northstar California Resort | Truckee | Feb. 7

Disco lights surround the ice-skating rink while DJs spin popular music from 5 to 8 p.m.

There will be drink specials, complimentary face painting and treats around the fire pit. 5-8 p.m. | (800) 466-6784, northstarcalifornia.com

Moonlight Snowshoe Hikes Diamond Peak Ski Resort | Incline Village | Feb. 7 Join a hike to Diamond Peak’s Snowflake Lodge for ages 10 and older. Enjoy s’mores and hot cocoa at the top. 5:30 p.m. $20-$25 | (775) 832-1177, diamondpeak.com

Moonlight Snowshoe Tour & Dinner Alpine Meadows Ski Area Tahoe City | Feb. 8

After the mountain closes and the winter moon rises, experience a snowshoe tour to the mid-mountain Chalet for an intimate seated dinner featuring Bavarian-inspired, multi-course cuisine created by executive chef Steve Anderson. 5:30 p.m. $119

Ability Bash Olympic Village Lodge | Olympic Valley | Feb. 8

The 26th annual Achieve Tahoe Gala will feature dinner and drinks, a silent and live auction, raffle and presentations honoring those who exemplify Achieve Tahoe’s mission. Proceeds benefit Achieve Tahoe programs. 6-10 p.m. $-$20 | achievetahoe.org

Full Moon Snowshoe Tour Moon Light Snowshoe Trek Kirkwood Mountain Resort | Feb. 7, 8

Trek our trails with us during the Full Moon.

There is nothing more unique and beautiful than the reflected light of the moon on the snow. Reservations required. 6 p.m. $7-$35 | (209) 258-7248, kirkwood.com

Sugar Pine Point State Park Tahoma | Feb. 8

State Park interpreters will be leading these tours exploring the natural and cultural history around the Hellman-Ehrman estate and Lake Tahoe shoreline. Cost includes showshoe rental, guided hike and park entrance fee. 6:30 p.m. $25-$40 | sierrastateparks.org

Quail Freeride Competiion Homewood Mountain Resort | Feb. 8

Winter Fireworks

Homewood Mountain Resort Tahoe Junior Freeride Series and the International Freeskier and Snowboarders Association present Quail Comp, the first of its kind Junior Freeride event on the West Shore. This is open to skiers and snowboarders age 12 and younger. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | (530) 525-2992, skihomewood.com

KT Deck at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Olympic Valley | Feb. 8

Backcountry Basics Course with NASTC

Tahoe Donner Challenge

Homewood Mountain Resort | Feb. 8, 9

Tahoe Donner | Truckee | Feb. 9

A practical hands-on experience where you will learn the right way to do these things from trained and experienced back-country professionals. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. $199-$249 | (530) 525-2992, skihomewood.com

Riding On Insulin Diamond Peak Ski Resort | Incline Village | Feb. 8 Ski/snowboard shred session for ages 7 to 17 living with Type 1 diabetes, their siblings and/or close friends. An all-day event with an optional group game and orientation on Friday night before camp. 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. | (775) 832-1177, facebook.com

Tahoe’s Connection for Families, is hosting the second annual “Share the Love” free community appreciation breakfast. This year’s featured speaker is Jim Sheils, author of “The Family Board Meeting” and co-founder of 18 Summers. 9-11 a.m. Free | (775) 832-8230, tcfkids.org

TD Land Trust Ski Tours

Pop Up Park

Guided Snowshoe Hikes with a Ranger

Boreal Mountain | Soda Springs | Feb. 7-12

Tahoe Meadows | Incline Village | Feb. 8

Boreal Pop Up Park’s will be an exclusive park build that will only last one week.

California’s best skiers and snowboarders will session the park in a private shoot the night before it opens, so everyone can get an awesome preview of what’s to come. 9 a.m. | rideboreal.com

The group will meander through the pine tree-lined forest, ultimately concluding the tour at The Village at Northstar. During the adventure, snowshoer’s will also relax around a fire pit to enjoy s’mores and hot chocolate.

Dogs on leashes are welcome. 5 p.m. $50-$70 | (800) 466-6784, eventbrite.com

Various venues | Truckee | Feb. 8

Gliding on cross country skis over a fresh blanket of snow is a great way to experience Truckee Donner Land Trust lands. This winter the Land Trust will be hosting four docent-led cross-country ski trips. 9 a.m. Free

Carson Ranger District on the HumboldtToiyabe National Forest will sponsor Forest Ranger-led snowshoe walks. Approximately 2 miles. Moderately strenuous. Enjoy grand views of Lake Tahoe. Participants must bring their own snowshoes. RSVP. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Free | facebook.com

Saturdays in February, Squaw be lighting the night air with a special fireworks show on the KT Base Bar, with free live music at in the Plaza Bar from 4 to 6 p.m. 7-9 p.m. Free | (800) 403-0206, squawalpine.com

This annual event is a fun challenge to ski what you think is the fastest route to multiple checkpoints on the XC trails. Choose to ski to every checkpoint or just pick one or two, then compare your time with friends over a drink at Trailside Bar. All participants have a chance to win spot prizes. 8 a.m. | tahoedonner.com

Racing Gnome Snowshoe Race Prosser Hill OVH | Truckee | Feb. 9

The Racing Gnome 5km and 10km snowshoe races are courses that will surprise and challenge all who enter. All experience levels are encouraged to race. There will be no race day registration. 9:30 a.m. $35-$40 | trailrunner.com

1 Billion Rising Truckee/Tahoe InnerRythms | Truckee | Feb. 9, 10

Learn the One Billion Rising Flash mob dance. Learn more about what One Billion Rising stands for, get inspired and join us in the movement on Feb. 14 at 4 p.m. at the Truckee train station. 4 p.m. Free | facebook.com

February 5-11, 2020

FEATURE

Squaw Valley Celebrates 70 Years PA R T I I STORY BY MARK McLAUGHLIN

O

n Thanksgiving weekend 2019, Squaw Valley Ski Resort celebrated 70 years of epic skiing for winter sports enthusiasts.

Since 1949, millions of people have been drawn to the picturesque valley surrounded by mountain peaks that offer unparalleled California skiing. Two men who loved to ski, Alex Cushing and Wayne Poulsen, had become business partners in 1948 when they agreed to organize the Squaw Valley Development Corp. Their goal was to build a world-class winter resort in this beautiful but isolated alpine valley tucked into the Sierra Nevada.

Wayne Poulsen started exploring the Squaw Valley terrain as a teenager in the early 1930s more than a decade before Alex Cushing would come West looking for a business opportunity in the fast-growing sport of alpine skiing.

Poulsen started exploring the Squaw Valley terrain as a teenager in the early 1930s more than a decade before Cushing would come West looking for a business opportunity in the fast-growing sport of alpine skiing. Cushing’s scary brush with physical paralysis during World War II had convinced him that a career as an officebound Wall Street lawyer was not what he wanted.

Read Part I

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

Poulsen’s good friend and fellow University of Nevada skier, Martin Jacques “Marti” Arrougé, knew everything about Squaw Valley since his father was a Basque herder who grazed sheep in the remote valley each summer. Arrougé had a brother and sister, but they both died young. When Arrougé was in his teens, his dad abruptly abandoned the family and sheep and departed for Wyoming.

Born in San Francisco, Arrougé spent a lot of time at Squaw Valley hunting, horseback riding, swimming and fishing; he learned much about its weather, climate and skiing terrain. Once he became a skier, he spotted downhill-friendly slopes and mentally installed lift systems where they would best open up the mountain. Arrougé shared that specialized knowledge with his buddy Poulsen, who was one year younger. Poulsen and Arrougé had a lot in common and a strong history together.

Not only were they both talented skiers on the University of Nevada’s first alpine team, they each earned a pilot’s license and flew during World War II. Arrougé served as a Navy aviator and flight instructor and Poulsen as a military pilot flying Pan Am trans-Pacific Clipper cargo air-

craft. While waiting for induction into the war effort, Arrougé got a job as an instructor at Otto Lang’s new ski school in the Sun Valley ski area in Idaho. Accessed exclusively by Union Pacific Railroad, whose management had purchased the land around the town of Ketchum and developed the vacation hot spot, Sun Valley was the world’s first dedicated, ski-destination resort and the first to install a chairlift in the United States.

Poulsen joined Arrougé teaching at Sun Valley and during that magical winter of 1941-42, they both met the love of their lives. In August 1942, shortly before he was assigned to the Twenty-Nine Palms airbase for duty as a military flight instructor, Poulsen married Gladys “Sandy” Kunau, from Manhattan, N.Y. The Poulsen-Kunau nuptials were followed one week later by Arrougé and his new beau, Norma Shearer, a famous movie starlet, ski junkie and wealthy widow 12 years older than Arrougé.

In 1943, the Poulsen’s purchased 640 acres of land at the head of Squaw Valley from Southern Pacific Railroad, where the modern resort now stands. Over the next few years the Poulsen’s acquired the option rights to an additional 1,200 acres from a private landholder. The couple hand-built their family home at the east end of the valley, where they would raise their eight children. Marti and Norma Arrougé were key financial supporters in these land acquisitions. After the war, the Arrougés moved to France to ski the Alps and enroll Norma’s two children from a prior marriage with film producer Irving Thalberg Sr. in private European schools The wildly successful Thalberg had died in 1936 at age 37 from pneumonia, leaving Norma $4.5 million in the midst of the Great Depression.

In the 1940s, the Poulsens were focused on developing a ski resort at Squaw Valley, but it was hard to raise sufficient capital.

Wayne was flying for Pan Am out of San Francisco and Sandy was busy raising their children in the remote valley. Winter

storms often left them snowbound, so the Poulsen’s purchased an army-surplus amphibious landing craft called a Weasel.

The tractors, designed for landing military troops on sand beaches, worked fine in snow. The Poulsen’s employed their Clipper Reindeer as a mechanical horse to pull friends over the snow, as well as any possible investors. Wayne invited Olympiccaliber skiers such as Friedl Pfeifer and André Roch to help advise on the future ski area’s layout and design. At one point, Corty Hill, a principal shareholder at the nearby Sugar Bowl ski area, was interested in the project. Friends and avid local skiers chipped in by buying stock in Poulsen’s dream, but there was not enough money to get started.

During the winter of 1947-48, the Poulsen’s were skiing at Alta, Utah, where they met Cushing, a well-connected Wall Street attorney who was looking to buy land in California. Wayne and Sandy invited him to visit Squaw Valley. That spring, Cushing, his wife Justine, and other family members took the train from New York to Sugar Bowl, where Cushing promptly broke his leg skiing. Cushing still managed to get a tour of Squaw Valley by riding on the Clipper Reindeer; while Wayne drove and pitched his vision.

Cushing and his wife Justine decided then and there that they would raise the money and join the Poulsen’s in building the resort. They returned to the East, called on their wealthy friends and over the summer raised $400,000. For his part, Wayne contributed a portion of his land in lieu of cash and he and Cushing formed a business partnership called Squaw Valley Development Corp.

Almost immediately, the new company was plagued by dissension and disagreements. Over the years of exploring, skiing and living in Squaw Valley, the Poulsen’s had developed a close bond with the natural environment and wanted it protected as much as possible despite the development of a ski area. Cushing, however, was under

Pilot Wayne Poulsen flew over Squaw Valley to get promotional photos, circa 1942. | Courtesy Mark McLaughlin

pressure from stockholders, nearly all of whom had invested in the project due to Cushing’s involvement and recommendation. Cushing and his backers wanted to get the resort up and running as soon as possible to produce revenue and dividends for the company and its investors. Both Poulsen and Cushing were strong-willed men and steadfast in their convictions; their disputes and confrontations escalated during the spring and summer of 1949.

The situation was untenable and something would have to give.

Stay tuned for Part III in the next edition and at TheTahoeWeekly.com; click on Explore Tahoe: History.  Tahoe historian Mark McLaughlin is a nationally published author and professional speaker. His award-winning books are available at local stores or at thestormking.com.

You may reach him at mark@thestormking.com.

Tahoe Science Center Hands-on science activities, Guided tours & 3-D movies Open Tues.–Fri., 1–5 p.m.

(or by appointment, closed all holidays)

TahoeScienceCenter.org

(775) 881-7566

11

FAMILY FUN

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Family FUN

WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO

L O V E LY W E AT H E R F O R

a sleigh ride together S T O R Y B Y M I C H E L L E A L L E N | P H O T O S B Y K AT H E R I N E E . H I L L

P

anoramic views abound at Sand Harbor Nevada State Park and it is one of the best places to drink in the beauty of Lake Tahoe. In the winter, the landscape changes with the cold weather, which adds to the allure, and the best way to experience this is to take a horsedrawn sleigh ride with Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides.

distracted easily and sometimes needs a little encouragement, that he is not afraid of bears or coyotes, but he is terrified of gray squirrels.

Anikin’s driving lesson is over and Foster turns the sleigh around. We head south back past the staging area and continue to the north end of the park. The sleigh stops at the beach and as Anikin climbs on boulders at the edge of the water, I take in the incredible view. On warm summer

The sleigh stops at the beach and as Anikin climbs on boulders at the edge of the water, I take in the incredible

LEFT TO RIGHT: Montana, led by Freddie Foster, drives

a sleigh ride at Sand Harbor State Park; Montana waits patiently; Anikin Allen enjoys playing in the sand at Sand Harbor, even if it is winter; Marveling at the winter beauty of Lake Tahoe.

view. … it is just us and the serenity of this breathtaking mountain

In 1967, Sam Borges and his sons started giving sleigh rides to their neighbors in South Lake Tahoe. In 1969, Borges created his company so he could share his love for the beauty of Tahoe. For the last 25 years,

the company has been operated by Sam’s youngest son, Dwight, and wife Diana Maria.

I knew a sleigh ride would be something I and my son Anikin would enjoy. I made a reservation over the phone with Diana Borges, who explained that if the weather turned out to be bad, the tour could be canceled. Luckily, the day of our trip is sunny with little wind. It is warm for a winter day, but we are wearing warm layers

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Call (530) 546-5995, ext. 110, to be included in Marketplace.

setting.

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in case the temperature changes or the wind picks up.

We arrive at Sand Harbor, pay our park fee and find convenient parking next to the horse and carriage staging area. While I am signing us in at the office, Anikin and my sister Kat Hill meet our sleigh driver Freddie Foster and our horse Montana, a beautiful blonde Belgian draft horse. Foster teaches Anikin how to give Montana treats with his palm flat and open.

After introductions are over, we load up in the back seat of the sleigh. The sleigh has wheels and Foster explains that they need more snow to use the runners. The sleigh pulls away from the staging area; we head south along the boardwalk that parallels the shore. We stop at the south end of the park to take pictures and let Anikin play in the sand, which is clear of snow. Carefree and happy, he is delighted to dig around.

We climb back on, but this time Anikin takes Foster up on his offer to let him drive. With Freddie’s instruction, Anikin takes control of the reigns and drives our sleigh. While Anikin is in the driver’s seat, Foster explains that Montana gets

days, the beaches here are packed with water lovers and sun seekers. But on this day, the beaches are deserted. It is a stark contrast to the busy energy of summer activity — it is just us and the serenity of this breathtaking mountain setting.

Borges Sleigh Rides at Sand Harbor are offered from November to March, whether there is snow or not. Rates are $50 for adults and $20 for children for a private, 45-minute tour or $25 for adults and $10 Find more family friendly activities at

TheTahoeWeekly.com

for children for a 20-minute tour. There is a $10 parking fee to Sand Harbor Nevada State Park. Borges Sleigh Rides also offer summer carriage rides and for special events, such as weddings or parties. | (775) 588-2953, sleighride.com  Michelle Allen is a 20-year resident of Tahoe and mother to a rambunctious 7-year-old and understands the challenges of keeping kids entertained. She may be reached at michelle@tahoethisweek.com.

February 5-11, 2020

FAMILY FUN

FOR THE KIDS 2’s & 3’s on the Go

Family Fun Fridays

South Lake Tahoe Library | Feb. 5, 12

KidZone Museum | Truckee | Feb. 7

10:30 a.m. Free | engagedpatrons.org

11 a.m.-12 p.m. Free | kidzonemuseum.org

RUFF, Read Up for Fun Truckee Library | Feb. 5, 12

Kids Night Out

4-5 p.m. Free | (530) 582-7846, truckeefol.org

Northwoods Clubhouse | Truckee | Feb. 7

RUFF: Read Up For Fun

Teen Scene

South Lake Tahoe Library | Feb. 5, 12

Kahle Community Center | Stateline | Feb. 7

Toddler Time TV Shows

Baby Story Time

Community Arts Center Truckee | Feb. 5, 12

Incline Village Library | Feb. 11

4 p.m. Free | engagedpatrons.org

10-11 a.m. Free | (530) 582-7200, tdrpd.org

5-9 p.m. $22-$29 | tahoedonner.com

6:30-9 p.m. $5 | (775) 586-7271

11:30 a.m. Free | (775) 832-4130, libraryaware.com

Teen Tuesdays Weird Science Wednesday Incline Village Library | Feb. 5

4-4:45 p.m. | (775) 832-4130, events.washoecountylibrary.us

Incline Village Library | Feb. 11

4-5 p.m. Free | (775) 832-4130, libraryaware.com

Toddler Story Time IV Quad Incline Village Library | Feb. 6

3-5 p.m. Free | (775) 832-4130, libraryaware.com

Mother Goose on the Loose South Lake Tahoe Library | Feb. 6

10:30 a.m. Free | engagedpatrons.org

Incline Village Library | Feb. 11

11 a.m. Free | (775) 832-4130

Twosday Morning Kahle Community Center Stateline | Feb. 11

9:30-11 a.m. $3 | douglascountynv.hosted. civiclive.com

Early Literacy Storytime

Make and Take

South Lake Tahoe Library | Feb. 7

Incline Village Library | Feb. 12

10:30 a.m. Free | engagedpatrons.org

4-4:45 p.m. | (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us

Toddlers on the Go Kids ages 2 and 3 can enjoy 2s & 3s On the Go! at South Lake Tahoe Library on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. This interactive, hands-on program is perfectly suited for toddlers and their caregivers. Sing songs, discover new books and explore the many ways in which to build a solid early literacy foundation.

Arrive early, find a space, settle in and get ready for the program. Story times start promptly at their scheduled time. | Facebook South Lake Tahoe Library

AIRPORT SHUTTLE SERVICE

North Lake Tahoe Express Daily airport shuttle 6:00am–midnight Every Day Low Fares $49 One way per person $98 Round-trip per person Large group discounts NorthLakeTahoeExpress.com (866)216-5222

EXPERIENCE NORTH LAKE TAHOE’S

ONLY ALL-INCLUSIVE

WINTER RECREATION FACILITY SLEDDING • XC SKIING • ICE SKATING • SNOWSHOEING

NorthLakeTahoeExpress.com

W inter S portS p ark . com | 530-583-1516 13

THE ARTS

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Arts

& CULTURE

CREATIVE AWARENESS

Alice Henderson

R A I S I N G C L I M AT E A WA R E N E S S T H R O U G H F I C T I O N S T O R Y B Y K AY L A A N D E R S O N | P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y A L I C E H E N D E R S O N

Y

ou could say that writing stories has been Alice Henderson’s passion for her entire life, starting with the first short story she wrote at age 6. Growing up in Missouri, Henderson conjured up fictional tales combining horror, science fiction, mystery and suspense.

Her father Gordon Henderson was a big influence; she watched him type poetry, novels and technical papers.

“At 6 years old watching him use this 1920s manual typewriter, I felt that it was the kind of thing to use to write hardboiled detective stories,” Henderson says.

wildlife work on the side, so it’s great being up here. Having my house on a lookout over the forest has allowed

With the help of the McFadden family and Jack Bacon & Company, his book has been enhanced and republished with a new name.

me to connect with nature, go on the Tahoe Rim Trail and

When she was 11 years old, she wrote her first novel (yet to be published). For her main character she invented the awkward Maynard A. Flichenheimer, whom she still uses sometimes in her work.

Most recently Henderson has started writing in a new genre, called climate fiction, or cli-fi, which focuses on global warming and climate change. She received a bachelor’s degree in college with a major in writing and a minor in earth science.

Explore Tahoe’s vibrant arts scene

at

TheTahoeWeekly.com

She moved to Oregon and earned a master’s degree in folklore, mythology and paleoclimatology. When she wasn’t writing, Henderson hiked the Cascade Mountains and explored her natural surroundings.

After receiving her master’s, she got a position with LucasArts and moved to San Francisco. She wrote several “Star Wars” video games and became a fulltime free14

art book

The book originally was published in 2002 as “Painters of Nevada 1845-1980” by Bob McFadden, a passionate collector of Nevada art and well-known businessman from Carson City, Nev. McFadden privately printed a small number of copies of his original 150-page manuscript. It was his vision to continually update the book as new information about painters of Nevada was discovered. McFadden died in 2004 and the book was never updated.

[genre]. I do a lot of

–Alice Henderson

Nevada

Nevada art enthusiasts, collectors and researchers now have an enhanced primary source they can reference to help deepen their interests in and awareness of Nevada art and artists, titled “19th and 20th Century Painters of Nevada.”

interested in that

my writing.”

Email news to editor@tahoethisweek.com

republished

“ I’ve always been

bring that theme to

Explore more events in the Tahoe Sierra or submit your event for free at TheTahoeWeekly.com

lance writer in 2001. She moved to South Lake Tahoe in 2009.

“I’ve always been interested in that [genre]. I do a lot of wildlife work on the side, so it’s great being up here. Having my house on a lookout over the forest has allowed me to connect with nature, go on the Tahoe Rim Trail and bring that theme to my writing,” she says.

In 2010, Henderson joined a writing workshop funded by NASA aimed at infusing accurate science issues into fiction. She also became a wildlife researcher specializing in bats and a local wildlife rehabilitator. These experiences led her to write the “Skyfire Saga,” a trilogy that takes place in a futuristic wasteland created by an environmental catastrophe. The third book in the series, “Shattered Skies,” was released in October. Some of the natural catastrophic events that happen in the books hit close to home.

“If you read these books like ‘Fahrenheit 451’ by Ray Bradbury — what he wrote is happening, it’s so eerily accurate,” she says.

“The things I predicted in the ‘Skyfire Saga’ started happening, too. My best friend told me to stop writing. But I’m a big believer in accurate science and bringing that to my work. If we can start preventing or mitigating these issues, then that’s the goal.”

Alice Henderson and her “Skyfire Saga.”

Henderson recently began a new cli-fi novel about a wildlife biologist who goes to remote places and studies endangered species. The first one, titled “A Solitude of Wolverines” will be released in October.

“I’m hoping that people interested in suspense will read these books and that it will entertain and bring awareness to these endangered species,” she says.

The premise in “A Solitude of Wolverines” is that a ski resort shuts down and the property moves into the hands of a land trust. Her main character works on how to possibly restore wolverines to the area.

“I’m working in other species that I want to give attention to. Douglas squirrels are in my wolverine book,” she says, adding that she’d like to write about the American pika.

Henderson believes that if she writes a nonfiction book about an endangered species, it will only appeal to a certain demographic. If she writes a suspenseful fiction novel weaving themes of climate change and wildlife into it, it will appeal to a larger readership and hopefully, educate, inspire and engage more people enough to facilitate change.

“That’s my No. 1 goal,” she says.

Henderson’s books are available on her website and on Amazon. | alicehenderson.com 

Jack Bacon & Company’s 51st publication of “19th and 20th Century Painters of Nevada” is more than 400 pages in length, with 2,500 artist names, new artist information and 200 color plate images of Nevada works of art. The exhibit “Nevada Artists” to coincide with the release of the book is on display at Stremmel Gallery in Reno, Nev., until Feb. 15.

The book is available for sale at Nevada Museum of Art, Nevada Historical Society, Artists Co-Op of Reno and Sundance Books and Music.

Jazz & Beyond

Art Contest Mile High Band Association’s 2020 Jazz & Beyond Festival Committee is sponsoring an art contest for Carson-Tahoe area artists. Selected entries in the competition may be used to promote the festival, and the winning entry will be featured on the festival’s advertising poster and program cover. The entry deadline is April 1 and participation is free. Details and entry forms are available online. | jazzcarsoncity.com

February 5-11, 2020

Lion Heart

THE ARTS

Evening of Poetry Kings Beach Library | Feb. 5

6-7 p.m. | (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov

“Fall Into Art”

Art Show

Community Rec Center | Truckee | Feb. 5-29 tdprd.org

Regine Bandel art exhibit

fundraiser

City Hall Lobby | South Lake Tahoe Feb. 5-March 31

8 a.m.-5 p.m. | cityofslt.regroup.com

The 10 annual C.R. Johnson Memorial Lion Heart Art Show will be on Feb. 7 at Riverside Studios in Truckee. C.R. Johnson was a local Tahoe skier who was an inspiration to all. His infectious spirit was welcome from the terrain park where he landed the first-ever 1440 on skis to the sets of various ski movies to the Winter X Games. His iconic red, yellow and green ski outfits were instantly recognizable. Unfortunately, he died from a skiing accident in February 2010. th

High Fives Foundation and the Johnson family dedicated its rehabilitation center to his memory: C.R. Johnson Healing Center is where athletes in recovery from outdoor, sports-related injuries can receive physical therapy, massage, training and more.

The Lion Heart Art Show, started as a fundraiser by C.R.’s sister, local leather artist Kahlil Johnson, and High Fives Foundation has been going strong for a decade. This year’s event is from 4 to 8 p.m.

TAL Presents Member Art Show Lake Tahoe Comm. College | Feb. 5-March 20 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | facebook.com

Public Tour Truckee Roundhouse | Thursdays

2-2:45 p.m. | chamber.truckee.com

“What’s Your Best Mountain Life?” exhibit North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Feb. 6-March 3 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | (530) 581-2787

Fiber Art Friday South Lake Tahoe Library | Feb. 7-June 4 1 p.m. | engagedpatrons.org

“Koala” Sara Smith | Riverside Studios Local artists will showcase mixed media available for purchase on 12-inch-by-12-inch panels of wood ($100) or sets of 4-inch-by2-foot planks ($200). All proceeds go to C.R. Johnson Healing Center. Works not sold will remain on the wall of Riverside Studios, available for purchase for the month of February. | Facebook Riverside Studios Truckee

THE ARTS

High Fives Lion Heart Art Show Riverside Studios | Truckee | Feb. 7

4-8 p.m. | highfivesfoundation.org

“A Series of Ricochets”

Writers in the Woods

Sierra Nevada College | Feb. 5-14

Sierra Nevada College | Feb. 7-23

Diamond Cut film contest

Tahoe Art League Meeting

Diamond Peak | Feb. 5-March 15

South Lake Tahoe Senior Center | Feb. 11

10 a.m. | (775) 831-1314, sierranevada.edu

diamondpeak.com

8 p.m. | (775) 831-1314, sierranevada.edu

6-8 p.m. | (530) 544-2313

TICKETS ON SALE FEBRUARY 10 AT 11AM!

APRIL 8-12 BROADWAY

Comes To Reno

PIONEERCENTER.COM BOX OFFICE M-F 11A-6P / 775.434.1050

15

FUN & GAMES

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Horoscopes

FIRE

EARTH

AIR

WATER

Puzzles

Michael O’Conno, Life Coach Astrologer | SunStarAstrology.com

Aquarius (Jan 19-Feb 19)

Leo (Jul 22-Aug 23)

A good deal of activity occurring at subconscious levels is underway. Generally, these big changes and require you to honor and have faith in the law of change. They can also be described as transformational to how you are in the world. The most recent activation of this focus occurred last week with the Aquarius New Moon. Now is the time for decisions.

The Sun in Aquarius is activating new relationship opportunities for you. These are closely linked to your public and professional life. Focusing on the needs and concerns of others is extra important at this time. By doing so, your scope of empathy may even reach new depths. Make extra efforts to acknowledge others and their respect for you will deepen.

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)

Changes in values, priorities, and attitudes were seeded by the recent New Moon. These are likely synchronizing with fresh inspirations to express yourself creatively. Beauty if a central theme focus. As eager as you may be to inspire others, you are also experiencing awakenings from your expressions and the process of bringing them to the light of day.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22)

Changes in your daily rhythm and routine and your lifestyle, in general, have been activated. These will lead you to new interpretations and may even cause shifts in some of your core beliefs. Positively, they are already producing more intimacy in your most important relationships. In turn, the entire process is stimulating a new sense of creative leadership in you.

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20)

Almost as if suddenly, your focus is turning to strongly focus on the future. While you do not want to take cavalier risks, you are eager to take action.

Breaking free of the accumulated weight of duties and responsibilities is featured. Expect to take more deliberate action soon. Yet it may take a week or so to fully awaken from winter’s slumber.

Libra (Sep 22-Oct 22)

The Sun’s cycle through Aquarius activates creative inspirations in you. This should be evident by now in some way or another. It can also manifest as a playful mood. At deeper levels, inventiveness may emerge in your conscious awareness. Venus in Pisces meanwhile signifies the need to be willing to give more and, thereby, you will receive.

Taurus (Apr 20-May 21)

Sometimes the learning curve requires that we move beyond the linear facts and details and enter into a process of creating thinking. This is where your own imagination and intuition have the opportunity to enter you into originality mode. With so many dreams of possibility, if flanked by the sharp points and edges of reality, are in the spotlight.

Scorpio (Oct 22-Nov 21)

Some hefty changes close to home are having a direct influence on some of your most important relationships. Some of these may have come about suddenly and caught you by surprise. Meanwhile, your ambitions are probably also running high.

Consequently, you may be busier than you have been for a while.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 21)

Just when it looked like the skies were clearing a bit, a new wave of complexity is washing in. It is pushing you to rise above and see a bigger picture, to garnish faith upon yourself and others. Knowing how to handle complex emotions is not something commonly taught. Yet, empathy, compassion, and surrender to higher truths, realities, and powers represent timeless wisdom.

Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22)

Circumstances of late have plunged you into the deep end. Yet, it is here where great things can be achieved. Still, in order to get to the essence of what you are seeking, you may first have to remove what is blocking progress. As well, a creative cooperative may be your best strategy. Taking a lead in this regard will feel right but doing so will require you to listen extra well if you are to keep the peace.

Sagittarius (Nov 21-Dec 21)

Seeing yourself and the world and in the world in new ways continues. This began late last year. Positively, you feel inspired and are eager to take full advantage of the opportunities available to you.

However, as has probably also been true for some time now, progress will not happen quickly. Pace yourself and continue with strengthening your foundation.

Capricorn (Dec 21-Jan 19)

Powerful activations have been occurring in your sign for many months now. Notably since late last year, Jupiter entered in early December, a Solar Eclipse on Christmas day, Saturn conjunct Pluto on January 12 together comprises a powerful dynamic. How they activate your Birth Chart specifically and how you are choosing to respond to them is the question. I can help you to gain a deeper and more visionary perspective.

CryptoQuip

If a dog really likes lounging around the wharf, would you call it a dockshund?

Hocus Focus differences: 1. Tie is different, 2. Wall is shorter, 3. Belt is missing, 4. Pants are different, 5. Jacket is different, 6. Tree is moved.

16

LIVE MUSIC, SHOWS & NIGHTLIFE Explore more events in the Tahoe Sierra or submit your event for free at TheTahoeWeekly.com

THE HUMOROUS MAGIC OF

Joel Ward

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com Check out the Tahoe Music, Events & Festivals guide for all the winter fun.

THE LINEUP FEBRUARY 5 | WEDNESDAY Mr. D River Ranch, Tahoe City, 4-7 p.m.

Warp Trio Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 4-5 p.m.

Unplugged Truckee Philosophy, Truckee, 6-9 p.m.

Live Music CB’s Bistro, Carnelian Bay, 6-9 p.m.

The Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

FEBRUARY 6 | THURSDAY The Physics of Snow | Bernhard Bach, UNR Tahoe Donner, Truckee, 4:30-6 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 7-8:15 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

an evening with

PHISH

Harrah’s and Harveys Lake Tahoe and Another Planet Entertainment announce the return of Phish to the 2020 Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series at Harveys Outdoor Arena on July 21 and 22 at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets go on sale on Feb. 8 at 10 a.m. at ticketmaster.com or apeconcerts.com.

The lineup also features Kenny Chesney on July 2 and 3, and Old Dominion on July 17. | caesars.com/harveys-tahoe

MUSIC SCENE

Music SCENE February 5-11, 2020

STORY BY SEAN McALINDIN

J

oel Ward got his first big break in magic as a 6-year-old boy growing up in Cardiff-by-the-Sea 25 miles north of San Diego.

“They had a magician at my elementary school who had these Chinese linking rings,” he says. “He picked me for one of the tricks. He told me they were going to link together, and I didn’t believe him. Sure enough, they linked together and the whole school applauded and I thought I was a magician.”

When he arrived home after school, Ward told his parents about his newly realized superpowers. They gently explained that this wasn’t real magic per se, but a craft that one could practice and master. His father bought him a sleight of hand guidebook and the following Christmas they

“ What keeps me going is there is so much to learn and create.

I’m always coming up with new trick ideas.

Sometimes it takes years for an idea to come to fruition and make it to the stage.”

–Joel Ward learned how to make a coin disappear in a well-known trick called the French Drop.

By the age of 10, Ward started his own business complete with a Yellow Pages ad.

It was a called “Joel: The Kid Kid’s Magician”. He printed up flyers to distribute on car windshields while his parents shopped for groceries and wore a $75 tuxedo with cut off sleeves and pant legs to perform at local birthday parties for $25 a pop.

“It was as pretty cool,” he says. “None of my other friends at the time were hustling like that.”

When Ward was 15, he became a world champion teen magician after amazing the crowd at the International Brotherhood of Magicians annual competition. His signature act involved making white doves appear out of thin air. For his grand finale, the birds turned into helium balloons and disappeared.

This success led to his first national television appearance on the Las Vegas-based “Lance Burton’s Young Magicians Showcase” on NBC. He later performed the trick for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus right after the tiger act, which was admittedly nerve-wracking for the doves.

COMIC MAGICIAN

One of Ward’s longest-running jobs was a 13-month stretch at the Horizon (now the Hard Rock Casino) in Stateline, Nev., where he was part of a magic variety show.

“I did close to 500 shows that year,” he says. “It was just the repetition of working on a new line or a new trick. It was a new audience every night to see what works and what doesn’t.”

When he returned to Tahoe last summer, his three-week stint at The Loft was cut short. While riding a rented Lime scooter down Lake Tahoe Boulevard, he hit a pothole in front of Harveys casino shattering his dominant left wrist.

“It took me out of business for two or three months,” he says. “I was strengthening and learning how to do tricks right-handed.”

Now Ward has returned to Tahoe for a week-long stint at The Loft, a cozy nightclub and theater in the Heavenly Village constructed with inspiration from the famous Magic Castle nightclub in the Hollywood Hills.

“It’s designed for intimacy and closeness,” says Ward. “Even the seats at the very back are close enough to have a oneon-one chat with the performer. It’s not just a show you sit down and watch. The audience is there to interact, and everyone actively participates.”

Along with his sleight of hand hocuspocus, Ward uses situational comedy to disarm his crowd and get them laughing before he blows their minds with his uncanny illusions.

“I put myself into a situation where either I get the trick wrong or I’m not doing the trick correctly,” he says. “I kind of bill myself as the inept dumb magician who can’t do a trick, except the payoffs are really great.”

Although he may only be 36 years old, Ward is already three decades into a career

The Loft | South Lake Tahoe Feb. 3-4 | 7 & 9 p.m.

Feb. 6 | 7 p.m.

Feb. 7-8 | 7 & 9 p.m.

Feb. 9 | 4:30 & 7 p.m.

Feb. 10-11 | 7 & 9 p.m. as one of the nation’s top touring comic magicians.

“What keeps me going is there is so much to learn and create,” he says. “I’m always coming up with new trick ideas.

Sometimes it takes years for an idea to come to fruition and make it to the stage.”

What separates Ward from other magicians is his sense of humor, his endless creativity and a youthful approach to the age-old art of deception.

“I think a magic show is there perfect place to escape reality and enter a world where anything can happen,” he says. “I don’t think there is any other entertainment where you can literally transport yourself to a place where anything is possible … I’m not a dark wizard or anything. I’m just a Find more local music at

TheTahoeWeekly.com

California surfer who happens to do magic.”

Resident magician Robert Hall performs a family friendly show at 7 and 9 p.m. on Feb. 5 and an adult’s only show at 9 p.m. on Feb. 11. | thelofttahoe.com  Sean McAlindin is a writer and musician living in Truckee, who loves a secret powder stash just as much as a good jam. You can reach him at entertainment@tahoethisweek.com. Other writings and original music are available at seanmcalindin.com.

17

TheTahoeWeekly.com

steel pulse

ALO &

the motet

Feb. 11 | 7 p.m.

Cargo Concert Hall | Reno, Nev.

Bob Minkin Photography

SINCE 1975 BIRMINGHAM, England, reggae icons Steel Pulse have born witness to the accelerating negativity of global affairs only to emerge with a devotedly raw, musical vengeance, which inspires fans worldwide. | cargoreno.com

first take

JAM ROCK

Patrick Niddrie

RICK METZ

ft. rick metz

REGGAE

Nick McCabe

FEB. 6 | THURSDAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

JAZZ

Tuesdays | 7 p.m.

Fat Cat Café | Reno, Nev. Feb. 9, 14 | Various times Max Casino | Carson City, Nev. Feb. 29 | 8 p.m.

MidTown Wine Bar | Reno, Nev. RICK “THE SAXMAN” METZ was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and schooled in Albuquerque, N.M., before touring North America and collaborating with artists from such celebrated acts as Tower of Power, Sha Na Na, The Temptations, Canned Heat, Quicksilver Messenger Service and the Eurythmics. | fatcatrestaurants.com, maxcasinocc.com

Sierra Night DJ McP’s Tahoehouse, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.

Dueling Pianos Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30-10:30 p.m.

The Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 9-10:15 p.m.

Live Music Bar of America, Truckee, 9-11:30 p.m.

Live Music/DJ Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 10 p.m.

FEBRUARY 7 | FRIDAY Adam Bergoch Sierra-at-Tahoe, Twin Bridges, 1-4 p.m.

Live Music Northstar California Resort, Truckee, 2 p.m.

Live Music Hard Rock - Hotel Lobby, Stateline, 3-6 p.m.

DELIVERING

Major Motion Pictures · Independent Films Live Music · Dance Performances

LEGAL CANNABIS RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR!

Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn Feb. 6-20 Downhill Feb. TBD The Way Back March TBD Fantastic Fungi March TBD Visit TahoeArtHausCinema.com for showtimes, schedule, events + tkts

THE COBBLESTONE CENTER 475 N LAKE BLVD., TAHOE CITY, CA | 530-584-2431

18

ALO

MUSIC SCENE

Serving North Lake Tahoe: Truckee, Olympic Valley, Tahoe City, Kings Beach, Northstar & surrounding areas.

ORDER ONLINE OR BY PHONE!

10% OFF 1ST ORDER Sunday - Wednesday 12pm-8pm Thursday - Saturday 12pm-9pm (530) 562-7017

wintergreensdelivery.com LIC# C9-00000061-LIC

Live DJ Azul Latin Kitchen, South Lake Tahoe, 4-8 p.m.

Kris Diehl The Idle Hour Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 5-8 p.m.

Live Music Gar Woods Lake Tahoe, Carnelian Bay, 6:30 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 7-8:15 p.m.

Live Music Moody’s Bistro, Bar & Beats, Truckee, 8-11:55 p.m.

Chris Costa Tahoe Biltmore Lodge & Casino, Crystal Bay, 8 p.m.

Dueling Pianos Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30-10:30 p.m.

The Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

ALO & The Motet Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 9 p.m.

Guitar Town Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

Arty the Party Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

DJ in Center Bar Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.

DJ David Aaron MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Noche Latina Rojos Cavern, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.

The Nevada Show Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Live Music/DJ Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 10 p.m.

FEBRUARY 8 | SATURDAY DJ Music Homewood Mountain Resort, Homewood, 12-3 p.m.

Live Music Northstar California Resort, Truckee, 2 p.m.

Boot Juice Performs Sierra, Twin Bridges, 2-5 p.m.

Feb. 7-8 | 9 p.m.

Crystal Bay Casino | Crystal Bay, Nev. TWO OF THE MOST amusing bands in the business join hands when ALO and The Motet meet for a weekend of music in Crystal Bay, Nev. Wild after parties in the Red Room continue until 3 a.m. with Magic Gravy. | crystalbaycasino.com

jeff jones

ACOUSTIC

Feb. 10 | 5 p.m.

West Shore Café | Homewood Feb. 18 | 2 p.m.

Village at Northstar | Truckee Feb. 28 | 6 p.m.

Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge | Tahoe City THE WARM, EASYGOING Jeff Jones is a natural musician with a multi-dimensional approach to classic rock. He is also one of Lake Tahoe’s premiere après-ski entertainers. | sunnysidelodge.com, westshorecafe.com

tracorum

FUNK & SOUL

Feb. 8 | 2 p.m.

Alpine Bar | Alpine Meadows Ski Resort BAY AREA GROUP Tracorum performs a blend of Southern rock, soul, honky-tonk and roots music with a rhythmic diversity of elemental funk, Caribbean and gospel — only in America. | squawalpine.com

February 5-11, 2020

DJ David Aaron MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Live Music/DJ Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 10 p.m.

FEBRUARY 9 | SUNDAY Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 2-5 p.m.

Live Music Northstar California Resort, Truckee, 2 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 4:30 p.m.

Bluegrass Jam Alibi Ale Works - Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6-9:30 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 7-8:15 p.m.

The Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Live Music/DJ Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Courtesy Alibi Ale Works

Live Music Alpine Meadows Ski Resort, Tahoe City, 2-5 p.m.

Live Music Hard Rock - Hotel Lobby, Stateline, 3-6 p.m.

Live Music Village at Squaw, Olympic Valley, 3-6 p.m.

Kris Diehl The Idle Hour Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 5-8 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 7-8:15 p.m.

Live Music Glasses Wine Bar, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music Moody’s Bistro, Bar & Beats, Truckee, 8-11:55 p.m.

Riffs Comedy Club Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.

MUSIC SCENE

Catch the

Bluegrass Jam at Alibi Ale Works in Truckee on Feb. 9.

Chris Costa Tahoe Biltmore Lodge & Casino, Crystal Bay, 8 p.m.

Dueling Pianos Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30-10:30 p.m.

Winter Hoedown w/ Everyday Outlaw 931 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village, 8:30-11:30 p.m.

The Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

The Motet & ALO Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 9 p.m.

Guitar Town Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

Arty the Party Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 9-10:15 p.m.

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

DJ in Center Bar Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.

FEBRUARY 10 | MONDAY Live Music, Service Industry Night West Shore Cafe, Homewood, 5-8 p.m.

Song Group Tahoe Truckee School of Music, Truckee, 5:15-6:30 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 7-8:15 p.m.

FEBRUARY 11 | TUESDAY Magic Fusion Starring Joel Ward The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 7-8:15 p.m.

Ike & Martin Alibi Ale Works - Truckee Public House, Truckee, 7-10 p.m.

Tuesday Night Blues Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8 p.m.

FEBRUARY 12 | WEDNESDAY Mr. D River Ranch, Tahoe City, 4-7 p.m.

Unplugged Truckee Philosophy, Truckee, 6-9 p.m.

Live Music CB’s Bistro, Carnelian Bay, 6-9 p.m.

19

LOCAL FLAVOR

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Local

flavor

FOOD & LIBATIONS, RECIPES, FEATURES & MORE

THE ART OF

Making Fresh Pasta W I T H C H E F I VA N O C E N T E M E R I S T O R Y & P H O T O S B Y P R I YA H U T N E R

P

ots clank as steam rises from large vessels on the stove of the massive commercial kitchen. Bags of flour and cartons of eggs are laid out on work tables along with an array of pasta; beautiful handmade pasta in numerous shapes and forms.

Executive Chef Ivano Centemeri of The Row in Reno, Nev., greets the small group of people invited to learn the art of pasta in the main kitchen of Eldorado Casino Resort. Centemeri moved to the states from Italy in 1995; he was recruited by Eldorado founder Don Carano. He shares his passion for cooking and creating in his master class series, as well as overseeing 24 restaurants, convention services and special events.

Ten forks spring on the tender bites of pasta and we pop the savory morsels into our mouths, relishing the fruits of our efforts.

A warm and effusive man, he has a twinkle in his eye and lively smile; his thick Italian accent makes crafting homemade pasta all the more authentic. We gather around the tables and Centemeri offer his wisdom on the art of making traditional Italian pasta from scratch. I tie my apron around my waist and with a glass of red wine in hand listen with rapt attention.

He speaks about growing up in Italy, his family meals and recipes with quality ingredients and the different pasta sauces.

“It all begins with the flour,” he said, pointing to the 50-pound bag of “00” Caputo Flour from Italy.

He shows us the different varieties of pasta: fettuccine, pappardelle, tagliarini and pasta sheets for cannelloni, ravioli and tortelli. Making pasta takes time and patience, according to Centemeri, and he suggests making big batches and freezing extra pasta.

Enjoy the tastes of Tahoe at

TheTahoeWeekly.com

The first lesson was making gnocchi, a potato, egg and flour dough that is a bit like a dumpling. Centemeri suggests using russet or Yukon Gold potatoes and recommends steaming the potatoes whole. Once cooked, peel them immediately and press the cooked potato through a food mill. Put that into the refrigerator for one night.

20

Eggs and flour are added to the milled potato and mixed into a dough. He warns us not to handle it too much or the dough will become sticky. We then learn how to roll gnocchi.

We’re given a mound of dough, and with our palms we create a long cylinder.

“The key is the pressure, starting from the center,” Centemeri says as he shows us his technique. After a few attempts, Centemeri gives me a nod of approval and a knife to cut the dough into small pieces. He throws them into a large vat of boiling water.

“How do you know when gnocchi are cooked?” someone asks.

“It floats to the top,” he said, rescuing the cooked ones and placing them on a platter.

He adds a bit of sage butter to the gnocchi and lays them out on the table.

Ten forks spring on the tender bites of pasta and we pop the savory morsels into our mouths, relishing the fruits of our efforts.

The sage butter was the perfect vehicle for the gnocchi. The room descends into moans of food ecstasy.

Next, Centemeri shows us how to make pasta dough.

He runs the pasta dough through an industrial pasta maker deftly catching the sheets and laying them on the table for the

next lesson. We cut it up and make ravioli with a butternut squash stuffing and a mushroom stuffing. We also make tortellini with a spinach and cheese stuffing. “Don’t be afraid of it, own it,” he says as we attempt to perfect our pasta shapes.

“If you want to freeze fresh pasta, you must first blanch it in salted water before freezing,” he explains.

We cook, eat and drink Italian wine while learning how to make pasta dough.

The master class was fun and delicious.

I loved learning from Centemeri; he is a truly an amazing person and creates magic in the kitchen.

The intimate master classes are $125 per person and are held quarterly at La Strada with Brunch Favorites on April 8 and Pizza Making on Aug. 20. | eldoradoreno.com  Priya Hutner is a writer, personal chef and workshop facilitator. She is the owner of the Seasoned Sage, which prepares organic artisan meals for dinner parties and events. She also offers in-home cooking classes, parties and local pop up dinners. As a breath meditation teacher and long-time yogi, she facilitates workshops and classes that focus on gaining a deeper awareness of self. Send story ideas to priya@tahoethisweek.com. | (772) 913-0008, pria78@gmail.com, seasonedsage.com

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Chef Ivano Centemeri

points out the different types of pasta he prepares; Priya Hutner rolls out gnocchi; Chef Ivano Centemeri runs dough through the pasta machine; Chef Ivano Centemeri demonstrating how to make gnocchi; Making the dough.

CENTEMERI IVANO’S PASTA DOUGH Serves 4 1 lb. “00” Flour 4 whole eggs, slightly beaten 4 egg yolks Salt, as needed Water, as needed

In a medium-sized bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the flour and add the eggs. If needed, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 3 to 4 minutes. Use a pasta machine or cut the pasta to desired width.

Boil and eat or blanch and freeze.

Serve with your favorite sauce.

February 5-11, 2020

LOCAL FLAVOR

Great Wines for 2020 PA R T I I I STORY & PHOTOS BY LOU PHILLIPS

Petra Restaurant and Wine Bar located in the Village at Northstar Petra focuses on Mediterranean Farm to Table Cuisine that rotates throughout the season, such as Oven Roasted Fulton Valley Chicken, green beans and polenta, Coco rubbed Bavette Steak with shoe string fries and spring mix.

uncorkedtahoe.com petra@uncorkedtahoe.com | 530.562.0600

G

round Control to Major Tom: “Fire up the Airbus A320 because we got a long way to go and a short time to get there!”

Part III of 2020’s glorious wine journey is indeed covering some serious ground — pretty much everywhere south of the equator is in play as we expand our palates.

Although parts of southwest France and all of Uruguay would have you believe they are the go-to spots for the Tannat grape, historically Tunisia has been the source of Tannat that has made the most impact.

Yalumba, The Y Series Viognier.

mention Tannat. To be fair, both southwest France and Uruguay make some lovely Tannat wines; the South American versions are the ones you will most likely find to sample. Just be ready for a tall, dark and bold stranger in the bottle.

That same descriptor can be applied to Carménère wines. This “exiled grape of Bordeaux” finds a real home in Chile; Argentina makes some nice versions, as well.

Let’s stay in Argentina to consider a wine friend I have recommended previously, namely Torrontes. The reason we are re-visiting this aromatic, floral and spicy white is that it just can’t seem to get any real buzz. Let’s look at that as an opportunity because it has decent availability and even stellar versions rarely break the $20

Photo Courtesy : Andria Gutierrez.

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Although parts of southwest France and all of Uruguay would have you believe they are the go-to spots for the Tannat grape, historically the African nation of Tunisia has been the source of Tannat that has made the most impact. You see, years ago

CRIOS Torrontes.

Root 1 Carménère.

the Grand Cru and other quality regions of Bordeaux had a challenging weather year; their main red grapes were either thin and weedy or rotted or both. Well, what’s a vigneron to do? What if our nation had outposts in a region that was adept at growing a grape that could absolve our wine sins and allow us to make at least acceptable Bordeaux? As we know this would not be ethical or legal, but what if some tanks were accidently passing by and some of the juice inside said tanks somehow got into our tanks? Couldn’t we just accept that as divine intervention?

Well, that may have happened, and it may be why I bring up Tunisia when I

mark. The CRIOS by Susana Balbo Wines delivers complexity and yumminess for about half that. Salads, seafood and herby, white-meat dishes know that like a good PR person, Torrontes makes them look really great all the time.

Our last Southern Hemisphere hero is an Australian Viognier. Ironically, in a country known for overdoing its wines, especially at lower price points, Aussie Viogniers such as Yalumba Y at around $12 are lither, more refreshing and just more interesting in the typical American

Nightly 5-6 p.m.

Read Parts I & II at

TheTahoeWeekly.com

version. Another reliable option is Torbreck Woodcutter’s version for a few dollars more. Both are widely available both in stores and restaurants.

Go forth and enjoy.  Lou Phillips is a Level 3 Advanced Sommelier in Tahoe and his consulting business wineprowest.com assists in the selling, buying and managing wine collections. He may be reached at (775) 544-3435 or wineguru123@gmail.com.

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Weekly wine tastings at Idle Hour

The Idle Hour Wine & Bubbly Bar hosts a Winemaker Tasting every Thursday at noon featuring a different family-owned winery each week. Upcoming tastings will feature Bella Grace Winery on Feb. 6, Rabble Winery on Feb. 13, Peltier Winery on Feb. 20 and Risk Winery on Feb. 27. | theidlehourlaketahoe.com

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Meet the Winery Uncorked Truckee | Truckee | Feb. 7

C Street | Virginia City | Feb. 8

Stroll through Virginia City’s historic saloons and sip on signature, themed drinks with your colored cup, which tells others if you’re single, taken or open for suggestions. 11 a.m. | visitvirginiacity.com

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Carson Mall | Carson City | Feb. 8

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• Geared for Games • Alice’s Mountain Market located at Squaw Valley • Donner Memorial State Park

Royal Gorge Cross Country Soda Springs | Feb. 8

This Full Moon tour is followed by dinner, wine and microbrews at Summit Station.

RSVP required. Space is limited. 6 p.m. | (530) 426-3871, facebook.com

First Tracks Breakfast Homewood Mountain Resort | Feb. 9

Early birds looking for the freshest snow can load Madden Chair from 8 to 8:30 a.m. and take some laps on Old Homewood Express before the slopes open to the general public at 9 a.m. Includes breakfast with RSVP. 8-9 a.m. $99 | (530) 525-2992, skihomewood.com

Art of Mixology

DinnerParties

or pick up a copy at:

Full Moon Tour with dinner

The Pour House | Truckee | Feb. 6

Carson Mall Wine Walk

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Third Thursdays tasting

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(775) 544-3435

Alpine Meadows Ski Area Tahoe City | Feb. 8

Every Thursday is a wine tasting with different family-owned wineries. 5 p.m. | (530) 600-3304, theidlehourlaketahoe.com

Level 3 (Advanced) Sommelier

WineGuru123@gmail.com -

Meet the Winery allows you to sample wines from different, interesting wineries.

5 p.m. | (530) 581-1106, uncorkedtahoe.com

After the mountain closes and the winter moon rises, experience a snowshoe tour to the mid-mountain Chalet for an intimate seated dinner featuring Bavarian-inspired, multi-course cuisine created by executive chef Steve Anderson. 5:30 p.m. $119

The Idle Hour Lake Tahoe South Lake Tahoe | Feb. 6, 13

Meet the Winery allows you to sample wines from different, interesting wineries.

5 p.m. | (530) 550-5200, uncorkedtahoe.com

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Come sip and shop at the Carson Mall.

Receive a wine glass which is yours to keep.

2-6 p.m. | visitcarsoncity.com

Last Tracks Wine/Beer Tasting Diamond Peak Ski Resort Incline Village | Feb. 8

Intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders can take the last chairlift up to the mid-mountain Snowflake Lodge and enjoy wine or beer tastings and appetizers before skiing down a freshly groomed run at sunset Reservations recommended. 4 p.m. $94 | (775) 832-1177

Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Truckee | Feb. 9

This entertaining, educational experience will feature freshly cut herbs, classic ingredients such as bitters and infused liquors to create three unique cocktails paired with appetizers. Price exclusive of tax and gratuity, minimum age applies for participation. 24-hour advance reservations are required. 4-5 p.m. $60 | chamber.truckee.com

Sunday through Thursday not valid w

LOCAL FLAVOR

February 5-11, 2020

FROM CHEF SMITTY’S KITCHEN

Chicken Casserole

20% OFF ENTIRE FOOD BILL Sunday through Thursday not valid with any other offer | Expires Feb. 11, 2020 | Excludes holidays

B Y C H E F D AV I D “ S M I T T Y ” S M I T H

W

inter is the time of year with the shortest amount of daylight. It’s cold outside. It’s cold inside. This really affects everything we do, which includes what we eat and how we prepare it. Dinner isn’t something we look forward to as much as we do in the summer when the weather is warm, the days long and the grill not buried under snow.

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In winter, we like to just get everything ready for dinner,

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8338 NORTH LAKE BLVD., KINGS BEACH, CA

toss it all in the oven and wait for it to finish cooking — that is pretty much the definition

Fine Italian Food & Spirits

of a casserole. cheese, but generally speaking, a casserole, besides having the crunchy top, contains everything you would normally have for a well-rounded dinner — the meat, vegetables and starch all in the one casserole dish or pan. There also is some kind of sauce that helps cook the dish without letting everything burn or dry out. Casseroles also are great because you can make enough for leftovers.

And, if you are serving this to others and want to make it sound fancier than saying you are having a casserole for dinner, you can say you are having Chicken Tetrazzini. The only difference is tetrazzini doesn’t have peas, but hey, that’s a small technicality that few people will call you on — and I happen to like peas.

Enjoy. 

In winter, we like to just get everything ready and toss it all in the oven and wait for it to finish cooking — that is pretty much the definition of a casserole.

All the ingredients are prepared, mixed altogether and tossed into one pan for cooking. Oh, yes, there also is often some type of crunchy topping as on the classic Find more of Chef Smitty’s recipes at

TheTahoeWeekly.com

green-bean casserole made with condensed mushroom soup and topped with crunchy French fried onions. Potatoes au gratin and macaroni and cheese are other popular casseroles with crunchy toppings.

A casserole can be either a side dish or an entrée. Since we usually save the side dishes for special occasions or holidays, we might as well go for something you’ll make for dinner a few times over the course of the winter. Of course, there are exceptions to everything, such as the macaroni and

David “Smitty” Smith is a personal chef specializing in dinner parties, cooking classes and special events.

Trained under Master Chef Anton Flory at Top Notch Resort in Stowe, Vt., Smitty is known for his creative use of fresh ingredients. Contact him at (530) 412-3598 or tmmsmitty@gmail.com.

Locals Love Lanza’s!

Open for Dinner Call for hours

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BacchisTahoe.com

(530) 546-2434 BAR - 4:30 p.m. DINNER - 5 p.m.

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Our Mission: We connect and empower our community through family strengthening, crisis intervention, hunger relief, and legal services.

Hunger Relief Program (formerly Project MANA):

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WEEKLY FOOD DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS AND TIMES:

MONDAYS TAHOE CITY | 3:00pm to 3:30pm Fairway Community Center, 330 Fairway Drive

CHICKEN CASSEROLE

From the kitchen of: Chef David “Smitty” Smith 6 oz. fettuccini, cooked, cooled under cold water & drained 4 chicken breasts, cut into 1- to 2-inch squares 2 C frozen peas 1 yellow onion, sliced 10-12 mushrooms, sliced 4 oz. sherry 1 stick butter 1 C chicken stock

1 C heavy cream 5 basil leaves, sliced thin Salt & pepper to taste 1 C parmesan cheese grated ½ C ground stuffing mix or crushed Ritz crackers

ROUX

(if needed) 1 stick of butter ¼ C flour

Cook the fettuccini al dente and cool immediately. In a skillet, brown the chicken on all sides in half a stick of butter and remove from the pan to a plate. Brown the onions in 1/4 stick of the remaining butter, stirring often once they start to brown to caramelize them without burning them.

Once browned, add the mushrooms and let these cook all the way through.

Add the sherry and let reduce by at least half. Add the stock and let boil for about 1 minute before adding the cream. Let this reduce until the cream starts to thicken. Here is the only tricky spot.

If the sauce seems thin — it doesn’t coat the back of a spoon — you can use the flour and one stick of butter to make a roux. Simply melt the butter in a sauté pan and add the flour letting it cook on the stove top until it is smelling a little nutty and has not started to brown. Take a little of the sauce out of the pan and use a little of the roux to thicken it before adding it back into your sauce. Repeat until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

Toss the chicken, peas, fettuccini and basil together and pour into the casserole dish or back into the skillet. Sprinkle the stuffing or crackers over the top, sprinkle the cheese over that and place in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is nice and golden.

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