February 21 to March 6, 2019

FEB. 21-MARCH 6, 2019

ADVENTURES IN

EMERALD CHI MCCLEAN TAHOE’S BAY CHUTES

APRÈS-SKI TROUBADOUR // BECOMING THE WOOD SNOWSHOE TO BROTHERS // TIPS FOR HIRING A CHEF //

BOYLES ROCK & CINDER CONE

ADVANCE RATE TICKETS

THE EARLIER YOU BOOK, THE MORE YOU SAVE

Y R A U FEBR M F RO

$89

Save an additional $10 per ticket when you purchase via the Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows App. Promo code: App2019

S Q UAWA L P I N E.CO M/ T I C K ETS

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

15

Volume 38 | Issue 5 TM

10

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

Kelly Carroll

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

17

Photography production@tahoethisweek.com

MAKING IT HAPPEN

Sean McAlindin

Publisher & Editor In Chief Katherine E. Hill publisher@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 102 Sales Manager Anne Artoux anne@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 110 Art Director Alyssa Ganong production@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 106

IN THIS ISSUE FEB. 21-MARCH 6, 2019

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

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

TAHOE SNOW APPROACHES 400 INCHES FROM THE PUBLISHER

The snow is falling steadily outside my office window again as we prepare to send this edition to the press on Feb. 15, with yet another snowstorm at our door expected to bring a least 2 more feet of snow on top of our bulging snowpack.

Some Tahoe ski resorts have already received 400 inches of snow as of press time, with Tahoe’s annual average snowfall for the entire year usually 409 inches. And, there’s still two months left in the ski season. Many locals are already betting that the season will extend into summer at some local ski areas.

As I was digging out my car from a fresh, 2½-foot snowfall in 24 hours, I was chatting with my neighbor about the wonder of Tahoe. The breathtakingly beautiful white world that the storms have created, the serenity of snowshoeing in the quiet forests, the powder skiing, the growing snowpack, the anticipation of a long season of skiing and the anticipation of an equally breathtaking wildflower season this summer.

FEATURES

MUSIC SCENE

Snowshoe to Boyles Rock & Cinder Cone 6

Chi McClean

Sierra Stories Emerald Bay Chutes

8 10

OUT & ABOUT

17

Entertainment Calendar & Live Music 17 The Wood Brothers

19

The Mountains are Pretty folk opera

20

Lake Tahoe Facts

4

Sightseeing

5

LOCAL FLAVOR

Events

6

Tasty Tidbits

23

Tips for hiring a chef

23

Wine Column

25

Chef’s Recipe

26

FAMILY FUN Stories in the Snow

12

For the Kids

13

ARTS & CULTURE Dharma Love

14

The Arts

15

FUN & GAMES Horoscope & Puzzles

16

Take our Reader Survey Tahoe Weekly still has a lot of great prizes to give away like ski lift tickets, restaurant gift certificates, sledding packages and more. Go to TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on the link for Take the Reader Survey at the top of the page. Be sure to give us your e-mail to enter the contest. 

Find us at TheTahoeWeekly.com | Keep up-to-date at

ON THE COVER Connery Lundin skis the Vikings Home Chute toward Emerald Bay during a beautiful January sunrise. “January is one of my favorite months to shoot photos as we can often shoot sun-exposed slopes with cold and blower powder,” says photographer Ming Poon. “We always remember the experience of sunrise and never remember the 4 a.m. wakeup. Lucky to have hard working friends like Connery and Jeremy Jones who are always motivated to start and end their days in the dark. Hard to beat days like this.” Read about skiing the Emerald Bay Chutes in Sean McAlindin’s feature “Adventures in Emerald Bay Chutes” in this edition and at TheTahoeWeekly.com. | MingPoonPhotography.com, @Ming.T.Poon

Facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly & Instagram

@TheTahoeWeekly 3

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Donner Summit

Truckee Donner Lake

TRUCKEE AIRPORT

DONNER MEMORIAL STATE PARK

h Ta

SUGAR BOWL

N

WEST EAST SOUTH

DOWNHILL SKI AREAS

ra Rim T

Tahoe Vista

ALPINE MEADOWS

Dollar Hill

NV

Lake

GRANKLIBAKKEN

Spooner Lake

Tahoe

il

Ta h o e R i m

CASINOS

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

DEEPEST POINT

Marlette Lake

Sunnyside a Tr

Maximum depth: 1,645 feet

TAHOE CROSS COUNTRY

Tahoe City

SNO-PARKS

Average depth: 1,000 feet

Crystal Bay

Kings Beach

Carnelian Bay

TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK

SQUAW CREEK

DIAMOND PEAK

Incline Village

NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK

Olympic Valley SQUAW VALLEY

oe

NORTHSTAR

Truckee River

CROSS-COUNTRY SKI AREAS

MT. ROSE

RENO-TAHOE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

DONNER SKI RANCH

ROYAL GORGE

SKY TAVERN

il

SODA SPRINGS

CLAIR TAPPAAN

BOREAL

Reno & Sparks

TAHOE DONNER

AUBURN SKI TRAINING CENTER

Eagle Rock

NEVADA NORDIC

Glenbrook

Carson City

Volume: 39 trillion gallons 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 o Ta h

HOMEWOOD

e Ri

DID YOU

m Tr a i l

Tahoma

SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK

Meeks Bay

KNOW

CA Cave Rock

Age of Lake Tahoe: 2 million years Watershed Area: 312 square miles

Zephyr Cove

Average Water Temperature: 42.1˚F

Emerald Bay

Average Surface Water Temperature: 51.9˚F

Cascade Lake

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

Ta h oe

R i m Tr ail

Average Snowfall: 409 inches

Fannette Island

South Lake Tahoe

Stateline HEAVENLY

CAMP RICHARDSON

Fallen Leaf Lake

BIJOU PARK / LAKE TAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Meyers

LAKE TAHOE AIRPORT

FREEL PEAK

ECHO LAKES

Natural rim: 6,223’ 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.

Size: 22 miles long, 12 miles wide Lake Tahoe is as long as the English Channel is wide.

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.

Permanent Population: 66,000 Number of Visitors: 3 million annually Kirkwood

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

HOPE VALLEY

Markleeville

KIRKWOOD

LAKE TAHOE

How the lake was formed

About 3 to 5 million years ago, the valley that would become the Tahoe Basin sank between parallel fractures in the Earth’s crust as the mountains on either side continued to rise. A shallow lake began to form in the resulting valley.

Roughly 2 to 3 million years ago, erupting volcanoes blocked the outlet, forcing the lake to rise hundreds of feet above its current elevation, and eventually eroded down to near its current outlet.

Between 1 million and 20,000 years ago, large masses of glacial ice covered the west side of the Tahoe Basin. Current geologic theory suggests an earthen berm (moraine) left by a receding glacier near Olympic Valley acted as a dam, causing the lake level to rise and then draw down rapidly when the dam catastrophically failed. Between

7,000 and 15,000 years ago, a four-mile segment of the West Shore collapsed into the Lake causing a massive submerged debris avalanche, widening the Lake by three miles and creating McKinney Bay.1 The Tahoe Basin is mostly granite, with little topsoil, and therefore few nutrients have washed into the lake to promote the growth of algae and other organisms that make water murky.

As well, 40 percent of the precipitation falling into the Tahoe Basin lands directly on the lake. The remaining precipitation drains through the decomposed granite soil found in marshes and meadows, creating a good filtering system for water.

Urbanization of the Tahoe Basin has eliminated 75 percent of its marshes, 50 percent of its meadows and 35 percent of its steam zone habitats. About 85 percent of all wildlife in the Tahoe Basin use these habitats.

About the lake Lake Tahoe is located in the states of California and Nevada, with two-thirds in California. It is fed by 63 streams and two hot springs.

The Truckee River is Tahoe’s only outlet and flows from the dam in Tahoe City east through Reno and eventually drains into Pyramid Lake in the Nevada desert.

However, water releases are not permitted when the lake surface level falls below the natural rim at 6,223.’ The lowest lake level on record (measured since 1900) was 6,220.26’ on Nov. 30, 1992.

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

Lake clarity The University of California, Davis, operates the Tahoe Environmental Resarch Center, which monitors, among other

things, the clarity of Lake Tahoe. Clarity has been measured since 1968 and was first recorded at 102.4’.

The waters of Lake Tahoe were clear to an average depth of 59.7 in 2017. The lowest average depth on record was 64.1’ in 1997. Lake Tahoe is losing clarity because of algae growth fueled by nitrogen and phosphorus.

Lake Tahoe’s discovery The first recorded discovery of Lake Tahoe by white explorers was on Feb. 14, 1844, when John Charles Frémont and Charles Preuss spotted the lake from atop Red Lake Peak. The lake went through several names before it was officially named Tahoe in 1945.

Tahoe is a mispronunciation of the first two syllables of the Washoe’s word for the lake – Da ow a ga, which means “edge of the lake.” 

Learn more: Visit the Tahoe Science Center in Incline Village or tahoesciencecenter.org. Sources: Tahoe Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Forest Service, “Tahoe Place Names” and David Antonucci (denoted by 1).

4

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

SIGHTSEEING

A quiet day on Tahoe’s West Shore. | Sean McAlindin

One of the lake’s famous natural sites, a volcanic plug on the West Shore. TART

Explore Tahoe (530) 542-2908 | cityofslt.us

South Lake Tahoe

Urban Trailhead at base of Heavenly. South Tahoe

Fannette Island

Emerald Bay

(530) 541-3030 | parks.ca.gov

Lake Tahoe’s only island, home to an old tea house.

Heavenly

South Lake Tahoe

(775) 586-7000 | skiheavenly.com

Enjoy a 2.4-mile ride on the gondola to the top with panoramic views. South Tahoe

Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

West Shore

$10 parking | parks.ca.gov (530) 525-7232 Park | (530) 583-9911 Tours Located in Sugar Pine Point State Park.

(Open for tours in the summer.) TART

High Camp (800) 403-0206 | squawalpine.com

Olympic Valley

Aerial tram rides, Olympic Heritage Museum, ice skating, events and more. Ticket required. TART

Kings Beach northtahoebusiness.org

North Shore

Settled in 1863 as a stagecoach stop. TART

Vikingsholm Castle (530) 541-3030 | (530) 525-9529 ADA parks.ca.gov or vikingsholm.com

Emerald Bay

Watson Cabin

Tahoe City

(530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org

The oldest building in Tahoe City and on the National Register of Historic Places. TART

MUSEUMS Donner Memorial Visitor Center (530) 582-7892 | parks.ca.gov

Truckee

The Donner Memorial State Park features exhibits and artifacts on the Donner Party. TART

donnersummithistoricalsociety.org

Soda Springs

Gatekeeper’s Museum Daily | (530) 583-1762 northtahoemuseums.org

(530) 587-5437 | kidzonemuseum.org

Tahoe Art League Gallery South Lake Tahoe

Features Washoe artifacts and exhibits on early industry and settlers. South Tahoe

visittahoecity.com

Historical sites and Commons Beach. TART

Tahoe Science Center

381

Incline Village

3066 Lake Tahoe Blvd. (530) 541-5255

Stateline 169 Hwy. 50 (775) 588-4591

Tahoe City 100 N. Lake Blvd. (530) 581-6900 Measured in Cubic Feet Per Second (CFS)

Truckee 10065 Donner Pass Rd. (Depot)

TROA.NET

(530) 587-8808

Free | (775) 881-7566 | tahoesciencecenter.org

U.S. Forest Service | Incline Village

Exhibits include a virtual research boat, biology lab, 3D movies and docent-led tours. TART

855 Alder Ave. (775) 831-0914 (Wed.-Fri.)

truckeedonnerrailroadsociety.com

Truckee

Exhibits include the train’s role in logging, fighting snow on the railway, the role of Chinese emigrants and a children’s area. TART

(530) 426-3313, ext. 113 | auburnskiclub.org Showcasing the history of skiing. TART

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)

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

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

Truckee

Lake Tahoe Museum

North Shore

FLOW AT FARAD

South Lake Tahoe

Featuring historic photos & memorabilia, and the Steinbach Indian Basket Museum. TART

Featuring exhibits of work by local artists and works for sale by local artists. TART

Tahoe City

Truckee River |

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

Tahoe City

Interactive exhibits, science & art classes, the BabyZone & the Jungle Gym. TART

Featuring local artists and workshops. South Tahoe

Tahoe City

Self-guided tours, exhibits and hands-on activities. TART

Kings Beach

Museum and 20-mile interpretive driving tour along Old 40. TART

North Tahoe Arts Center

(530) 544-2313 | talart.org

CAPACITY: 18,300 C

A 20,400 MARTIS 867 | CAPACITY: (530) 583-9283 tahoemaritimemuseum.org

VISITORS’ CENTERS

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

Western SkiSport Museum Donner Summit

Donner Summit Historical Society

KidZone Children’s Museum

Free | (530) 581-2787 | northtahoearts.com

Games. Tower of Nations. Olympic Flame. Olympic CAPACITY: 9,500 C DONNER 2,980 Museum at high camp.

TART 50

Truckee Railroad Museum

Home to the North Shore’s largest sandy beach, in the heart of downtown. TART

Tahoe City

Olympic Museum Olympic Valley C 226,500 STAMPEDE 198,734 CAPACITY: (800) 403-0206 | squawalpine.com 29,840 9 Winter Olympic PROSSER 6,356 Celebrate the homeCAPACITY: of the 1960

Tahoe Maritime Museum

Tour the grounds of Vikingsholm Castle, see Eagle Falls and Fannette Island. TART

6,227.91

Measured in Acre Feet (AF)

CAPA PACITY AC CITY:: 40,87 CITY 40,870 70

INDEPENDENCE 14,587

IN 2018:

225

West Shore

Truckee

6,227.90 |

200,000 AF

Eagle Rock

BOCA 5,702 truckeehistory.org | truckee.com

ELEVATION :

RESERVOIR CAPACITY

175

The Summit, just west of Truckee, holds the record for the United States’ snowiest April in 1880 when a storm dumped 4’ of snow in 24 hours.

Readings taken on Friday, February 15, 2019

150,000 AF

Truckee

Once known as the “Grandest Resort in the World.” Grounds open year-round. South Tahoe

LAKE LEVEL Lake Tahoe Natural rim 6,223’

125

Donner Summit

South Lake Tahoe

100,000 AF

Drive through the neck of an old volcano.

Tallac Historic Site

(530) 541-5227 | tahoeheritage.org

75

East Shore

25

Cave Rock

50

ATTRACTIONS

South Lake Tahoe

(530) 541-5458 | laketahoemuseum.org

Old Jail Museum (530) 582-0893 | truckeehistory.org

Truckee

One of a few surviving 19th Century jails. TART

Boots McFarland by Geolyn Carvin | BootsMcFarland.com

5

OUT & ABOUT

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Out

&ABOUT

OUTDOORS & RECREATION, EVENTS & MORE

Snowshoe with a view BOYLES ROCK AND CINDER CONE

EVENTS CALENDAR FEB. 21-MARCH 7, 2019

STORY & PHOTOS BY MIKE WHITE

W

hen snow conditions at lake level are good, moderate to advanced snowshoers may enjoy the steady ascent to Boyles Cross and beyond to the prominence known as Cinder Cone.

The beautiful view of Lake Tahoe and the peaks rimming the Basin is a suitable reward for all the labor to get there. The short trip to the cross and back only requires about an hour or so for the average snowshoer, while the much longer route to the 1,250-foot higher cone will take the better part of a day to complete.

From the Fairway Community Center in Tahoe City, cross Fairway Drive and climb moderately northwest up a slope covered with the classic mixed forest common to the hills immediately above the shore of Lake Tahoe comprised of Jeffrey pines, sugar pines, white firs and incense cedars. After about one-fourth mile, the grade mellows on the approach to an old wood cross poking out of the snow — unless there’s been enough snow to bury it.

If this is your planned destination, an opening in the forest cover is a fine spot to place an insulated pad on the snow, plop down and enjoy lunch with friends, perhaps share a bit of wine, some cheese and a fresh loaf of sourdough bread, and marvel at the excellent view of the lake.

Snowmobile rules issued

The Tahoe National Forest has released its draft on the Over-Snow Vehicle plan, as first reported at TheTahoeWeekly.com.

The Draft Decision designates areas on the Tahoe National Forest for cross-country, over-snow vehicle travel and specific snow trails for over-snow vehicle use, some of which are available for grooming. Details are available at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on Snowmobiling under the Out & About menu.

Open houses for

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Dan Palmer taking in the view

Along the way, the trees part just enough to allow views

of Lake Tahoe from Boyle’s Cross; An incomparable view awaits from Cinder Cone; Boyle’s Cross above Tahoe City.

to the west of brightly clad alpine skiers descending the slopes of Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows.

As the story goes, William Boyle, a former resident of Tahoe City, was laid to rest at his request at this spot on Feb. 12, 1912. He supposedly asked his drinking mates to bury him here so he could keep them under his watchful eye. Whether or not the tale is true, the grand vista of Lake Tahoe provides Boyle with a more than adequate final resting place.

Those who wish to carry on should continue the ascent through the forest, passing below a set of power lines and emerging into a pair of clearings; soon after climb moderately through the trees again. The grade eases a bit farther on and at about 1¼ miles into the journey, veer to the north to follow a prominent ridge.

Along the way, the trees part just enough to allow views to the west of brightly clad alpine skiers descending the slopes of Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows.

Proceed up the ridge to a crossing of the snow-covered road known locally as the Fiberboard Freeway — a popular mountain bike route in the summer — so named for the Fiberboard Corporation, which was 6

the major landowner in this area years ago.

Among the company’s other holdings were Sierra-at-Tahoe and Northstar ski resorts.

In winter, the road carries snowmobilers from Brockway Summit into the North Tahoe back country.

Away from the Fiberboard Freeway, you continue climbing generally northwest and then north along the ridge. Approaching the top, the route curves east and arrives at a rocky clearing atop Peak 7572’, where a very fine view unfolds of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

The southern exposure may afford the opportunity to plunk down on an exposed rock on which you can sit, relax and enjoy the remarkable view of almost the entire lake. As numerous Tahoe landmarks are visible from this aerie, packing along a small-scale map to help identify some of the major features scattered around the Basin would be helpful.

On thoroughly enjoying the vista from the east flank of Cinder Cone, follow your tracks back to the Fairway Community Center. With extra time and energy, rather

than backtrack you could head west threefourths mile to the true summit of Cinder Cone (7,668 feet), descend the south ridge to the Fiberboard Freeway and then follow the road back to the trailhead. If you choose this alternative, be aware that encountering snowmobilers along the road is likely.

How to get there | Drive to the intersection of State Route 89 and Fairview Drive in Tahoe City, which is one-fifth mile north of the wye junction with State Route 28.

Follow Fairview Drive for one-fifth mile more to the parking lot on the right-hand side for the Fairway Community Center and park your vehicle as space allows.

Be aware | The Fiberboard Freeway (Forest Road 73) is a major access for snowmobilers between Brockway Summit and Tahoe City. You may see and hear these machines at times along this route.

Without a marked trail, snowshoers must be able to navigate safely to the destination and back, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Avalanche danger is usually minimal in this heavily treed area, but recreationists can consult daily reports at sierraavalanchecenter.org. 

Plumas snowmobile plan The comment period for the Plumas National Forest Over-snow Vehicle Use Designation Project has been extended, with a new comment period end date of March 1, as first reported at TheTahoeWeekly.com.

Two open houses have also been rescheduled to Feb. 26 at the Graeagle Fire Hall from 4 to 6 p.m. and Feb. 27 in Oroville at the Southside Oroville Community Center from 4 to 6 p.m. Details are available at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on Snowmobiling under the Out & About menu.

New trails, lifts eyed for Mt. Rose Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest has opened a review period for a proposed expansion at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe. The expansion would include adding two chairlifts, 11 new trails and a skier bridge to cross Highway 431, among other improvements.

Details on the project and the public review period are at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on Winter under the Out & About menu.

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

FEB. 21-MARCH 7, 2019 Beginner Backcountry Ski Tour

Kid-O-Rama

Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 21-24

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Olympic Valley | Feb. 21-24

A weeklong kids’ extravaganza. Kid-O-Rama offers non-stop fun for kids of all ages. | (800) 403-0206, squawalpine.com

Intermediate Backcountry Ski Tour

Avalanche Essentials: Risk Assessment

Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 21, 22

Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 22

Beginner Splitboard Tour

Backcountry Basics 101: How to Skin Field Session

This half-day tour is focused on intermediates, that has all the needed equipment for touring but has done so less than 30 times.

8 a.m.-2 p.m. $75 | alpenglowsports.com

Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 21, 23, 24

Designed to graduate beginner/intermediates from the classroom to the field for those who have taken your AIARE foundational classes. 8-11 a.m. $75 | alpenglowsports.com

The tour is focused on beginners, that has all the needed equipment for splitboard touring but has done so less than 10 times.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. $75 | alpenglowsports.com

Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 22, 23

Chickadee Ridge Snowshoe Hike

Chronic Pain Self-Management Program

Mount Rose | Incline Village | Feb. 21, 24

Tahoe Forest Center for Health | Truckee | Feb. 22

Learn the foundation skills from the ground up. This is a field session but will not a lot of touring. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $25 | alpenglowsports.com

This short and scenic hike will take you through Tahoe Meadows and up Chickadee Ridge, for scenic vistas of the Lake.

9 a.m.-12 p.m. | tinsweb.org

Join this weekly class and learn skills to help maintain a wellness focus, improve quality of life; techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, etc. 1-3:30 p.m. Free | (530) 587-3769, tfhd.com

Women’s Intermediate Backcountry Tour

Virtual Reality Studio

Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 21, 22

Incline Village Library | Incline Village | Feb. 22

This half-day tour is focused on intermediates, that has all the needed equipment for touring but has done so less than 30 times.

9 a.m. $75 | alpenglowsports.com

Experience the canals of Venice, ride a roller coaster or walk with dinosaurs. 3:30-5:30 p.m. | (775) 832-4130, libraryaware.com

Astronomy Snowshoe Mountain Host Tours Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Olympic Valley | Feb. 21-24

Join the Squaw Valley Mountain Hosts offering free Mountain Tours for intermediate or advanced skiers and riders. 9:30 a.m. | (800) 403-0206, squawalpine.com

Backcountry Basics 101: Avalanche Report/Beacon Essentials Tahoe City Golf Course | Tahoe City | Feb. 21

This is a perfect event for those just getting into back-country travel in order to cover beacon basics.Participants will not need touring equipment. 1-3 p.m. $25 | alpenglowsports.com

Help with computers Kings Beach Library | Feb. 21, 28, March 7

Ongoing computer help. Call or stop by for our class schedule. 3-4 p.m. Free | (530) 5462021, placer.ca.gov

Virtual Reality in the Library Truckee Library | Truckee | Feb. 21

Experience Virtual Reality with the Oculus Rift. For ages 8 and older at Truckee Library.

4-5 p.m. Free | (530) 582-7846, madelynhelling.evanced.info

Winter Superstars Week Tahoe Donner Downhill | Truckee | Feb. 21-23

Events are for all ages and include ski and snowboard races, a weighted ski patrol sled pull, luge racing event and more. Visit the Web site for details. | tahoedonner.com

Alpenglow Mountain Festival Area venues | Tahoe City | Feb. 21-24

A nine-day celebration of human-powered mountain sports with more than 75 individual events. Register online. | alpenglowsports.com

EVENTS

Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 22

Tahoe Institute for Natural Science will lead this fun night. Bring warm clothes, a headlamp and a thermos with warm liquid. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $25 | alpenglowsports.com

Tailgate Talk: “Hoji” Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 22

The final Tailgate Talk of the Mountain Festival is a screening of the Matchstick Production film, “Hoji.” Eric Hjorleifson lets his skiing speak for itself. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free | alpenglowsports.com

Beginner/Intermediate Skate Ski Clinic Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 23, 24

If you have never had a skate ski lesson or want to refine your technique, this event is for you. Open to both beginner and intermediate skiers. 9-11 a.m. $25 | alpenglowsports.com

Courtesy NTBA

This half-day tour is focused on beginners, that has all the needed equipment for touring but has done so less than 10 times. 8 a.m.2 p.m. $75 | alpenglowsports.com

OUT & ABOUT

Parades, fireworks & more at SnowFest!

Every spring since 1982, North Lake Tahoe and Truckee have come alive with 10 fun-filled days and nights of events and activities for all ages. This year’s SnowFest! is from Feb. 28 to March 10 with on-snow events, special events, races, parties, dancing and more.

The kickoff party and coronation of the SnowFest! Queen on Feb. 28 will begin the celebrations, followed by fireworks on Commons Beach in Tahoe City on March 1.

Popular events such as the Polar Bear Swim, Pete ‘n Peter’s Bar Olympics and the Truckee River Winery Ice-Carving Contest are back. Get your dog in on the fun with the Dress Your Dog contest, the Dog Pull or the Tahoe Donner I-did-a-run.

Parades flank both ends of SnowFest! Tahoe City’s parade is on March 2 and Kings Beach’s parade is on March 9. Both are kicked off with a pancake breakfast from the local fire firefighters; both begin at 11:30 a.m. A full schedule and description of events are online. | tahoesnowfest.org

Let the

Good Times Snow

at Granlibakken

Best in Snow

Family fun is right outside your door at Granlibakken Tahoe.

Affordable skiing, snowboarding, and sledding in Tahoe City.

Lessons & Rentals available.

Lodging guests receive half-priced sledding passes and full-day lift tickets.

Natural History Snowshoe Tour Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 23, 24

Learn about natural history issues related to winter ecology, namely how various animals and plants cope with winter in Tahoe. 9 a.m.12 p.m. $25 | alpenglowsports.com

Backcountry Basics 101: Terrain Management Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 23

Learn the needed foundations skills from the ground up, focusing on terrain management during your first mini-tour. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $25 | alpenglowsports.com

2 for 1

Entrėes Cedar House Pub Open Thursday-Sunday 5-9 PM Open daily during holiday periods.

2-for-1 entrees every Thursday & Sunday* Excludes holiday periods

Ski Your Heart Out Mt Rose Ski Tahoe | Reno | Feb. 23

Join the American Heart Association and Ski Your Heart Out on for a Winter Fun Fundraising event at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe.9 a.m.-3 p.m. $45 | (775) 849-0704, facebook.com

Guided Snowshoe Tours Alpenglow Winter Speaker Series Olympic Village Lodge | Olympic Valley | Feb. 21 Hear from these professional athletes as they share stories of their incredible adventures. Feb. 21 features Brittany Griffith. | (800) 403-0206, alpenglowsports.com

Clair Tappaan Lodge | Norden | Feb. 23, March 2 Bring snowshoes or rent a pair. The tour lasts 2 to 3 hours. | RSVP (530) 426-3632 10 a.m. $10-$20 | (530) 426-3632, facebook.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

530-583-4242 | Granlibakken.com 7

FEATURE

TheTahoeWeekly.com

SIERRA STORIES

BY MARK McLAUGHLIN

Winter 1874 Challenged Transcontinental Railroad based on tensions over the issue of slavery between Northern and Southern states.

The polarized parties could not even agree on which route the track should take in its path across the country, along with other issues. Secession by Southern states in 1861 offered President Abraham Lincoln the opportunity to sign the 1862 Pacific Railway Act authorizing federal loans and land grants for the massive construction project, as well as financial support for the first transcontinental telegraph line.

The chugging locomotives riding that shiny ribbon of

D

uring the month of May this year, communities across the western United States will be celebrating the sesqui-centennial (150th) anniversary of the completion of the world’s first transcontinental railroad in 1869. For many of these cities and towns, the railroad was their sole reason to exist in the beginning. But railroad commerce and activity solidified and expanded their footprint on the map and those that survived are now permanent and thriving. In the 1870s, the isolated town of Truckee, which received its moniker when the railroad came through in 1868, shipped more freight than any other point on the Central Pacific line.

A 1874 Bucker plow at work. | Courtesy Nevada Historical Society

Truckee has activities, lectures and interpretive walks planned throughout this spring, summer and fall. Truckee Donner Historical Society and Donner Summit Historical Society, along with the Truckee Donner Railroad Society, have put out a call for local artists of any age for artwork to brand the official logo for this Golden Spike celebration.

The transcontinental railroad represented a transportation revolution for the country that stitched the U.S. together coast to coast. The epic engineering project had been delayed for years due to obstructionist politics in Congress

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steel that promised year-round travel across the country in safety and comfort were more problematic in the mountains west of Truckee.

When the transcontinental railroad was finally completed on May 10, 1869, promoters stated that — unlike the Donner Party — instead of taking months to cross just the western two-thirds of the country, New Yorker’s could ride to San Francisco in about 10 days. It was an incredible leap forward that would only be exceeded by aviation more than half a century later.

But the chugging locomotives riding that shiny ribbon of steel that promised yearround travel across the country in safety and comfort were more problematic in the mountains west of Truckee.

During the winter of 1874, 145 years ago, severe winter conditions between Donner Pass and Blue Canyon shut down the line for days at a time. Despite heroic snow removal work by hundreds of Central Pacific Railroad crews, the blinding blizzards confirmed that safe and comfortable travel could never be guaranteed in the stormy Tahoe Sierra.

Unlike many big winters that often open with early season snowstorms, the winter of 1874 did not get started in earnest until the first week of December.

But for the next four months the Storm King relentlessly battered the mountains.

The first of many potent and cold Gulf of Alaska storms slammed northern California beginning on Dec. 2. Freezing temperatures plummeted to sea level after the frontal passage and in a rare event nearly 6 inches of the white stuff blanketed Petaluma, Vallejo and other coastal valley locations. Temperatures were the lowest in memory for residents in San Francisco, where fortunately most of the snow melted as it hit the ground. The storm pounded the Tahoe Sierra with deep snow. Five feet fell in Truckee and on the shoreline of Lake Tahoe, raising Big Blue’s level 6 inches in just two days — more than 19 billion gallons of water.

On Jan. 8, 1874, the Truckee Republican newspaper reported: “Nature has been acting wildly for several days past, and yesterday in particular it turned out the worst weather that has been manufactured in this vicinity in the memory of the earliest inhabitant.” Recently shoveled walkways from the saloons and businesses on

Truckee’s Commercial Row to the railroad depot were re-filled with snow. Billowing drifts across the railroad tracks blocked freight and passenger trains. The town had no communication with the outside world due to downed telegraph lines at multiple points between Reno and Sacramento.

For several days residents were snowbound because roads in all directions were buried and impossible for horse-drawn sleighs to travel. The work of breaking open roads through the drifts was tedious, tiresome and expensive. On Jan. 21, George Schaffer took charge of opening the road from Truckee to his sawmill in Martis Valley, about 4 miles away. Schaffer, sometimes called the “Father of Truckee,” had co-founded the area’s first sawmill and built, owned and operated the town’s first water system. Schaffer engaged a crew of men with shovels and an 11-yoke team of oxen to bulldoze through the drifts. Simultaneously, road breakers with oxen were shoveling their way from Brockway Hot Springs at Lake Tahoe toward Truckee.

It took them eight days to forge a passage 14 miles long. To top it off, the temperature sunk to 30 degrees below zero in Truckee on Jan. 24.

By March the snow was nearly 10 feet deep and clearing roads took up to 40 yoke of oxen, meaning 80 of the beasts harnessed together. But conditions were worse in the higher elevations and as strong storms continued to pummel the region through February and March railroad men were reeling from the onslaught. Through Herculean efforts, Central Pacific crews managed to keep trains moving through the Sierra. They were aided by wedgeshaped Bucker plows pushed at high speed into the drifts by four to 10 engines depending on the depth. They were effective at the time — powerful rotary snowplow technology was still 15 years away — but the Buckers frequently derailed.

There’s a classic story from the winter of 1874 that I published in my book, “Western Train Adventures: Romance, Robberies & Wrecks,” about Truckee Republican editor Charles McGlashan’s frightful ride on a Bucker snowplow. The train derailed at high speed throwing McGlashan under the wheels of a locomotive, but he miraculously survived with only a small tear in his overcoat.

Another weapon against the relentless snowfall were the miles and miles of wooden snowsheds that Central Pacific had constructed over the tracks in the heaviest snowbelt zone. The sheds held up that winter for the most part, protecting the right-of-way from snow and avalanches.

It’s impossible to know how much snow fell that winter because Central Pacific Railroad didn’t start measuring it until 1879, but there’s little doubt it was a monster season. The railroad crews were overwhelmed at times, but they never gave up and they broke blockade after blockade to keep rail service running.  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. Check out his blog at tahoenuggets.com or read more at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on History under the Explore Tahoe tab.

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

FEB. 21-MARCH 7, 2019 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

Get S’more Saturdays Downtown Kings Beach | Feb. 23

Head to participating eateries and shops, then stroll to the outdoor gathering area at Las Panchitas for s’mores and a raffle. 3-6 p.m.

Free | (530) 546-9000, northtahoebusiness.org

Stargazing Snowshoe Tours Northstar California Resort | Truckee | Feb. 23

Stargazing Snowshoe Tours are two to two and a half hours in length. 5 p.m. | (800) 4666784, northstarcalifornia.com

Disco Tubing SnowVentures Activity Zone Olympic Valley | Feb. 23, March 2

Speed down the snow tubing lanes to vibrant DJ tunes as the night is illuminated with colorful lights and lasers splashed on the mountainside. 5-7 p.m. | squawalpine.com

Nachtspektakal Homewood Mountain Resort | Feb. 23

A European-inspired uphill ski-touring event, with a catered meal, social hour at a mid-mountain bonfire, skiing down in the dark. 5-10 p.m. $65 | (530) 584-6877, skihomewood.com

Winter Fireworks Village at Squaw | Olympic Valley | Feb. 23, March 2 Enjoy a winter fireworks celebration every Saturday. 5:30 p.m. Free | (800) 403-0206

Squaw Creek Skate Parties Resort at Squaw Creek | Olympic Valley | Feb. 23

Join a weekly-themed ice skating party every Saturday in February with a DJ. 6-9 p.m.

Free | facebook.com

Alpenglow 20K/10K/5K Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area | Tahoe City | Feb. 24 Enjoy a festive social atmosphere in the Freeheel Lodge after the race. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. $15-$40 | alpenglowsports.com

Women’s Beginner Backcountry Tour Alpenglow Sports | Tahoe City | Feb. 24

This half-day tour is focused on beginners, that has all the needed equipment for touring but has done so less than 10 times. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $75 | alpenglowsports.com

Captain Nordic’s Dress Up Day Tahoe Donner | Truckee | Feb. 24

Dress up in your best retro ski gear or bright colors for a fun day on the trails to remember the spirit of local kids’ coaching legend Mark Nadell. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | tahoedonner.com

PassHolder First Tracks Heavenly Mountain South Lake Tahoe | Feb. 25, March 4

Passholders to Heavenly can enjoy First Tracks every Monday morning. 8:30-9 a.m. | (775) 586-7000, facebook.com

Digital Marketing Small Business Seminar Fairway Community Center | Tahoe City | Feb. 26 The speakers will explore best practices to help you tell your brand’s story with personality and originality. 8-9:30 a.m. $20 | (530) 5818727, facebook.com

OUT & ABOUT

EVENTS

Chamber Membership 101

Celebrity Hound Hobnob

SnowFest! Day 4

California Welcome Center | Truckee | Feb. 27

Gallery Keoki | Olympic Valley | March 2

Za’s | Tahoe City | March 4

Learn about the benefits of membership. Coffee and pastries. 8-9 a.m. | chamber.truckee.com

A fundraiser for the Squaw Valley Avalanche Rescue Dog & Education Fund. 5-7 p.m. $10 | gallerykeorki.com

Knowledge Bites: Small Businesses Truckee Chamber Offices | Truckee | Feb. 27

Topics include: overtime, split shifts, meal and rest times, sick leave and exempt vs. nonexempt, employee vs. independent contractor.

2:30-4 p.m. $25-$35 | truckee.com

Winter Wildlands Backcountry Film Festival North Tahoe High School | Tahoe City | Feb. 27

Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club Twilight Snowshoe Tours Northstar California Resort | Truckee | March 2

All community members are invited to attend for the latest in community news and projects. 7-8:30 a.m. $15 | gotahoenorth.com

SnowFest! Day 2

SnowFest! Day 5

Area venues | Tahoe City | March 2

Pete N Peters | Tahoe City | March 5

This fundraiser event is for Tahoe CrossCountry’s Winter Discovery Center and Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships. 6-8:30 p.m. $10 | facebook.com

Boldly Went Live Outdoor Podcast

First Tracks

Truckee Philosophy | Truckee | Feb. 27

Homewood Mountain Resort | March 3

A hot breakfast 7-8 a.m., then the ability to load the Madden Chair as early as 8 a.m.

7 a.m. $0-$99 | skihomewood.com

The Great Ski Race SnowFest! Kickoff Gar Woods | Carnelian Bay | Feb. 28

Granlibakken | Tahoe City | March 5

A guided, evening snowshoe tour. 5-7:30 p.m. | (800) 466-6784, facebook.com

Tahoe City Firefighters Pancake Breakfast, Paint the Snowman, Tahoe City Parade, party at Pete ‘n Peter’s Bar, Winter Party Fundraiser for Tahoe City Nursery School, Polar Bear Swim and Haus Brewfest. | tahoesnowfest.org

The Seattle-based company partners with Tahoe Mountain Sports to collect and highlight outdoor adventure stories of all kinds. 6:30 p.m. Free | boldlywentadventures.com

SnowFest! Day 4 includes the fifth annual clam bake at Za’s. 5-8 p.m. | tahoesnowfest.org

Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area Tahoe City | March 3

Pete ‘n Peters Bar Olympics. 7-11:30 p.m. $20 | tahoesnowfest.org

New Moon snowshoe Area venues | South Lake Tahoe | March 6

Best time for seeing stars, constellations, etc. 5-7:30 p.m. | tahoe-snowshoetours.com

SnowFest! Day 6 Area venues | March 6

Ice-carving competition at Truckee River Winery in Truckee and Blackout Bingo at Rosie’s. 8:30 p.m. | tahoesnowfest.org

Squaw Dogs Chamber of Commerce Mixer

The race will be timed using chip technology for the first time this year. Shuttle buses will help transport skiers to and from the race.

9 a.m. $60-$110 | thegreatskirace.com

NLT Visitor Center | Tahoe City | March 7

Friday Night Snow Tubing

SnowFest! Day 3

SnowFest! Day 7

Tahoe Donner Snowplay | Truckee | March 1

Area venues | Tahoe City | March 3

Area venues | Tahoe City | March 7

Kickoff Party & Queen Coronation. Enjoy hosted Wet Woodys, wine, beer and heavy appetizers, and live music with Groove Foundry.

5-8 p.m. $35 | tahoesnowfest.org

Tube and sled under the lights until 6:30 p.m. 1:30-6:30 p.m. | tahoedonner.com

The Great Ski Race, Dog Pull, Fat Cat’s Hot Wing Eating Contest and Sunnyside annual Luau. | tahoesnowfest.org

Come meet the rescue dogs of Squaw Valley at the Tahoe City Visitor Center. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Free | (530) 581-8727, facebook.com

Meet the Avalanche Dogs of Squaw Valley at North Tahoe Visitor Center and Za’s Cornhole Tournament. | tahoesnowfest.org

First Friday at Five The Lift | Truckee | March 1

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

SnowFest! Day 1 Area venues | Tahoe City | March 1

Pioneer Cocktail Club Block party: 2:30-7:30 p.m., Black Apalooza at Blue Agave: 6:30-9:30 p.m., fireworks at Commons Beach in Tahoe City from 7:30 to 8 p.m. | tahoesnowfest.org

Alpenglow Expeditions AIARE Level 1 Course Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Olympic Valley | March 1-3

Develop a good foundation on how to prepare for and carry out a back-country trip, | (800) 403-0206, squawalpine.com

Persian Snow Festival South Lake Tahoe | March 1-4

A Winter Gathering to enjoy skiing, tubing, ice skating, an alpine race, parties and evening fun. | persiansnowfestival.com

Snowshoe Thompson Ski & Snowshoe Celebration Lake Tahoe Golf Course South Lake Tahoe | March 2

Lake Tahoe Historical Society hosts guided tours, longboard demos, historical exhibits, music, talks and a plaque dedication. 9 a.m.1 p.m. $10-$20 | snowshoethompson.org

Snow Camping 101 55+ Snowshoe Hikes Area Venue | Incline Village | Feb. 26, March 5

Trekkers of all abilities are welcome for a light to moderate level snowshoe hike. 10 a.m.2 p.m. | (775) 832-1310, yourtahoeplace.com

TRTA Offices | Stateline | March 2

Join Tahoe Rim Trial Association for this classroom and overnight weekend to learn snow camping tips and tricks. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $130-$150 | tahoerimtrail.org

Visit the Event Calendar at TheTahoeWeekly.com for a complete list of events.

9

FEATURE

TheTahoeWeekly.com

ADVENTURES IN EMERALD BAY CHUTES STORY & PHOTOS BY SEAN MCALINDIN

THIS PAGE: Andy Anderson and

Spencer Heusman skin up the Spring route; OPPOSITE PAGE: Jim Moore skis the Emerald Bay Chute.

I drop in and immediately feel the grip of the soft snow. Picking up steady, yet controlled, momentum, I work my way down the slender shaft and into the widening meadows below.

The steepness lets up a bit, but not much and its hero turns all the way.

10

I

t’s a misty morning in Glenshire as I set out for the West Shore on a week day. The cold air is still trapped over the Truckee River for 20 miles to Fanny Bridge in Tahoe City. A perfectly long inversion layer of moisture rests weightlessly in a dreamlike projectile over the lake.

In the distance, I see the ridge connecting Jake’s Peak to Rubicon Peak, a vast Sierra Nevada back-country playground where skiing is at its finest. The parking lot by the winter gate is half-full and quiet as I ready by the entrance to the Spring route.

The 2,400-foot climb from State Route 89 to the saddle between Jake’s Peak and unnamed Peak 9,195’ is not for the faint of heart. On the way, I pass early risers making tracks through freshly warmed, corn down the bowl toward Emerald Bay. Like a beacon, Fannette Island smiles in the distance at us humans knowing such joy in her morning presence. Nearing the pitch before the saddle, I’m met by forecaster Andy Anderson of Sierra Avalanche Center.

The forecast for today is moderate near and above the tree line and he appears calm. Anderson’s report submitted later in the afternoon read as follows: “Sunshine, warm air temperatures and light winds had caused enough melting for 1 to 2 inches of soft corn snow to form on SE-S-SW aspects of Jakes Peak by 10:30 a.m. This snow rested on a supportable layer of consolidated melt-freeze snow.

As we skinned up, the snow continued to soften, but the wet snow never got deeper than 2 to 3 inches.”

Corn snow is generally found in the spring when melt/freeze cycles meld large grains of snow together overnight, which loosen as the sun warms them during the day. The Goldilocks of snow, it’s soft and forgiving, but not too wet and slushy. This is what Jake’s Peak is known for, at least on the south side. The north and eastern glades often hold powder stashes for several days when the conditions are right.

On reaching the saddle after 90 minutes of steady climbing, I’m greeted by North Shore Adventures ski-mountaineering guide Jim Moore.

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

ADULT TICKETs

FEATURE

$69

starting at WITH A 3-DAY VALUE PASS “I’m thinking about heading for Emerald Chutes today,” he says. “The snow should be just right.”

We wrap around the west side of Peak 9195’ hoping to find a ribbon of snow leading to the elusive entrance of the main chute. The warm weather and windy storms of January have exposed the granite boulders and gnarled old trees of the summit. We boot pack, post hole and boulder in ski boots through slow-going, yet exquisitely beautiful, terrain, a wideopen view of Desolation Wilderness in winter gently unfolding before us. When we reach the notch at the head of the chute, I am glad I came along with Moore for my first time here.

“There’s a waterfall at the bottom,” he says. “Sometimes I bring a climbing rope, but we should be able to get through by hanging off the willows.”

Such words of confidence ne’er bespoke a man before dropping into the steep and narrow confines of upper Emerald Bay Chute. Moore slices with precision the deepening corn between the granite walls on both sides before vanishing beyond the corner below.

I drop in and immediately feel the grip of the soft snow. Picking up steady, yet controlled, momentum, I work my way down the slender shaft and into the widening meadows below. The steepness lets up a bit, but not much and its hero turns all the way. We’re all smiles as we reach a small platform where the canyon narrows into willow-filled cataracts.

I work my way through the dense branches with my skis on my back. Every time I post hole, they hit the snow with a dull thud. I resort to sliding and crawling backwards on my tummy until I reach the waterfall proper. I hang onto the willow branches and lower myself down the 5.6 climb onto the skiable snow below.

A quick ride out the lower fields and we’re at Eagles Falls, one-fourth mile from State Route 89. If we’d planned ahead, we’d have left one car down here, but this was a random adventure today. After a few minutes a man in a pickup truck turns around to give us a lift back up to the gate. It’s just another day at Jake’s Peak. 

KIDS

byop

6 & UNDER SKI FREE

$20 off adult ticket

Bring Your Other Pass Deal

Upcoming Events:

3/9: Interpretive Ski Tour 3/10: Retro Ski Day & Passholder BBQ 3/24: Dummy Downhill 3/30: Luggi Foeger Uphill/Downhill race

Purchase lift tickets & rentals online: DiamondPeak.com 11

FAMILY FUN

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Family FUN

Capturing snowflakes FOR SCIENCE S T O R Y B Y M I C H E L L E T. A L L E N

W

hen I was a kid, I remember being told that no two snowflakes snowflakes are the same. Snowflakes form when cold water droplets freeze onto particles of dust.

Each snowflake has a unique crystalline structure and this structure tells a story about the atmospheric condition, like temperature and humidity, when the snowflake was formed. These snowflake stories can help scientists better understand the climate.

So, we ordered a kit, downloaded the app and waited for the snow to fall.

After anxiously waiting for a few weeks, we finally got our opportunity to use the kit. Anikin grabs the kit and dumps the contents on our birchen table. I remind him that we have to be careful with the macro lens as we check out our new scientific tools.

My husband, Luke, puts the macro lens over his phone’s camera lens, places the snowflake crystal capture card in the falling snow and takes a picture. He also takes a picture of our surroundings and the current

Each snowflake has a unique crystalline

E X C L U S I V E C O N T E N T AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com

structure and this

Watch a video on how Stories in the Snow works

structure tells a story about the atmospheric condition, like temperature and humidity, when the snowflake was formed.

To capture the story of the climate of the Tahoe-Reno area, the Desert Research Institute has developed the Stories in the Snow program. The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a nonprofit environmental research lab for the higher education system of Nevada.

Through Stories in the Snow, DRI’s goal is to collect scientific information about the region’s climate. They also aim to promote student interest in art, science, math and geometry. Stories in the Snow kits provide students with the tools to take photographs of snowflakes and share

them with DRI scientists.

Each Story in the Snow kit includes a Citizen Science case, macro lens (magnifying lens), thermometer, compass and snowflake crystal capture card. Using the macro lens on a Smartphone camera, participants can take photos of snowflakes and send them to DRI through the free Citizen Science app.

The Citizen Science app also includes platforms for reporting your observations

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Michelle and Anikin Allen take photos of snowflakes for Stories in the Snow. | Katherine E. Hill; Using the macro lens to photograph snowflakes. | Luke Allen; The Stories in the Snow kit. | Katherine E. Hill

on algae, local species, water quality and beach conditions in Tahoe.

Being a science nerd myself, I was intrigued when I heard about the Stories in the Snow project. What a great way to enjoy the snow while teaching my son, Anikin, a little something about science.

conditions as indicated by the instructions in the kit.

Luke texts the images to me and as I pull them up, I marvel at the beauty and complexity of the crystals captured in great detail by the macro lens. I open the Citizen Science app; I click on the Stories in the Snow selection and follow the prompts to upload the photos. I tell Anikin we are now officially citizen scientists and we are helping other scientists learn more about the natural world.

We do the experiment several more times over the next couple of weeks as we get hit with round after round of winter weather. Anikin and I decide we will try to take photos of snowflakes whenever we have the chance and buy more kits to give to our friends.

Stories in the Snow kits can be ordered online for $25 each but rely on community support and donations to supply the kits for free to schools. | dri.edu/stories-inthe-snow 

MAKE TRACKS TO TAHOE XC THIS SEASON FREE SKIING

We accept Visa or Mastercard. Reservations required. Morning flights only for best weather conditions. The earlier, the better. All flights are weather permitting. 48 hour cancellation policy.

Flights are from Carson City Airport.

12

FOR YOUTH UNDER

19,

AND ADULTS

70+

T AHOE XC . ORG | 530-583-5475 | 925 C OUNTRY C LUB D R , T AHOE C IT Y

Jan. 10-23, 2019

FAMILY FUN

For the Kids Visit the Event Calendar at TheTahoeWeekly.com for a complete list of events.

Presidents’ Break

Teen Scene

Kahle Community Center Stateline | Feb. 21, 22

Kahle Community Center Stateline | Feb. 22, March 1

Mother Goose on the Loose South Lake Tahoe Library South Lake Tahoe | Feb. 21, 28, March 7

Jump start your child’s brain development with this award-winning program that combines music, movement and literature. 10:30 a.m. | (530) 573-3185, engagedpatrons.org

Toddler Story Time Incline Village Library Incline Village | Feb. 21, 28, March 7

With stories, puppets, music and movement for ages 18 months to 3 years. 11:1511:45 a.m. | (775) 832-4130

Break the Brick Incline Village Library Incline Village | Feb. 21, 28

This four-week series will introduce ages 12 through 17 to the logical, sequential nature of coding and how it can be applied to programming robots. Kids will become familiar with basic block programming and apply this knowledge to have robots perform basic tasks.

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

Astro-Poetry Contest Tahoe Star Tours | Truckee | Feb. 21-March 7

Tahoe Star Tours announces the call for poems for the 2019 Astro-Poetry Contest.

Poems can be submitted anytime until April 14 from students in elementary to high school.

Poems must have an astronomy theme and be 20 lines or less. Entrants need not be from the Tahoe region. Free | facebook.com

Kids in grades 6-12 can shoot hoops, play volleyball, climb the rock wall and play arcade or video games. 6:30-9 p.m. $5 | (775) 586-7271 Keri Oberly | Tahoe Donner Downhill

Enjoy school break with field trips, games, crafts and fun. 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Friday Fun Nights Northstar California Resort Truckee | Feb. 22, March 1

Join the fun in the heart of the Village as the disco lights surround the ice skating rink every Friday night with drink specials, complimentary face painting and live music. | (800) 466-6784, northstarcalifornia.com

Glowstick Parade and Carnival Tahoe Donner | Truckee | Feb. 23

This family-friendly event offers an array of multi-colored lights skiing downhill at night.

Fun for participants and spectators alike. Participants should plan to come early to secure a spot in the parade, and get glow sticks by playing free carnival games. Music and snacks will be provided in the bar area prior to the parade. 4:30 p.m. | tahoedonner.com

Kids glow when skiing A light parade and carnival for kids is at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort on Feb. 23, starting at 4:30 p.m. This family-friendly event offers an array of multi-colored lights skiing downhill at dusk. Ages 10 and younger who can ski or ride unassisted in the dark on the Snowbird run will be allowed. Participants should come early to secure a spot in the parade; skiers get glow sticks by playing free carnival games. | tahoedonner.com

Preschool Story Time Kings Beach Library Kings Beach | Feb. 26, March 5

The Kings Beach Library hosts a Preschool Storytime every Tuesday from 10:30-11 a.m.

Each week has a different theme. In a lively, silly and casual environment kids work on multi-sensory pre-literacy skills. Stop by for loads of fun, and read books, sing songs, learn nursery rhymes, and do fun and easy crafts. 10:30-11 a.m. Free | (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov

Weird Science Wednesday Incline Village Library | Incline Village | March 6 Come join the fun and experiment with weird wacky science. 4-4:45 p.m. | (775) 8324130, events.washoecountylibrary.us

Teen Tuesdays Kid-O-Rama Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Olympic Valley | Feb. 21-24

Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows offers a weeklong kids’ extravaganza. Kid-O-Rama offers non-stop fun for kids of all ages. Check out the Big Truck Event featuring fire trucks, snowplows and grooming machines. There are also street parties and kids’ concerts, a game and craft room and more. | (800) 403-0206, squawalpine.com

Early Literacy Storytime South Lake Tahoe Library South Lake Tahoe | Feb. 22, March 1

Build a child’s pre-reading skills with this engaging and interactive program designed to support a child’s early literacy development for a lifelong love of reading and learning. Suitable for children ages 3 to 5 with parents and caregivers. 10:30 a.m. Free | (530) 575-3185, engagedpatrons.org

Bear Factory Resort at Squaw Creek Olympic Valley | Feb. 22, 23

Choose your favorite animal to hand stuff, including polar bears, penguins and much more. Don’t forget to choose an outfit for your new fuzzy friend. Contact the concierge to confirm locations and times at 530-581-661 1-2 p.m. | 530-581-661, facebook.com

Incline Village Library Incline Village | Feb. 26, March 5

Offers kids a fun way to explore different ways to learn about technology. A new activity each week. 4-5 p.m. Free | (775) 832-4130, libraryaware.com

RUFF, Read Up for Fun Truckee Library Truckee | Feb. 27, March 6

The Truckee Library has joined forces with the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe to bring the RUFF (Read Up For Fun) Program to children in the library. Children can practice their reading skills by reading aloud to trained therapy animals. Kids can play and do crafts while waiting their turn to read. 4-5 p.m. Free | (530) 582-7846, truckeefol.org

Kids Night Out Northwoods Clubhouse Truckee | March 1

Kids ages 4-9 are invited to an evening of fun at Northwoods Clubhouse while parents enjoy a night on the town. 5-9 p.m. | tahoedonner.com

Kids Arts Saturdays North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | March 2

Children, ages 4 and older, can create a new project with instruction from artists.

Each Saturday features a new project. Parents must stay with their children and are encouraged to create, as well. 1-3 p.m. $5-$10 | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

13

THE ARTS

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Arts

& CULTURE

CREATIVE AWARENESS

Siren Arts seeks donors

Anastasia Keriotis

Courtesy Siren Arts

BUILDING CONNECTIONS THROUGH ART 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 N A S TA S I A K E R I O T I S

W

alking into Dharma Love in South Lake Tahoe, one is greeted with warm and welcoming smells and sights: roughly sketched hearts; photographs of Buddha, lilies and old-school bicycles adorn greeting cards; beanies, T-shirts, tote bags, artwork and other made-withcare gifts. Standing behind the counter next to a medium-sized smiling Buddha sculpture is Dharma Love’s founder, Anastasia Keriotis.

She graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the California College of the Arts and continued to pursue her love of painting, ceramics, making jewelry and film photography. She’s had her artwork in galleries in Palm Springs and Reno, Nev., and traveled to developing countries to capture different cultures on film. Keriotis began creating greeting cards that she would give to loved ones and found a niche.

Siren Arts, a local grassroots organization, is seeking supporters and donors as part of its campaign to develop a Tahoe City Arts & Cultural Center at the Firehouse Properties.

The Firehouse Properties are part of the 4.3 -acre parcel that make up Commons Beach and includes the old Tahoe City fire station and the two buildings currently housing the North Tahoe Arts Center. The parcel was deeded “to the people of Tahoe City” through an act of congress by Ulysses S. Grant in 1872. Placer County, which owns the land, has hired a consultant to conduct a feasibility study to evaluate the site and redevelopment proposals, including Siren Arts’ proposal. The study is expected to be completed this spring.

Siren Arts is proposing a multi-use arts and cultural center that would include event and performance space, artist studios, exhibit space, classrooms, office space for local nonprofits, a commercial kitchen, cafe and public space.

“ I want to send something beautiful and positive out in the world and so when

Siren Arts is asking community members to visit the Web site to learn more and to sign up to voice support for the idea of a community center. The Tahoe Weekly is a supporter of the proposal. | sirenarts.org

people tell me their stories that means everything to me.”

–Anastasia Keriotis Stores around California started carrying her cards. Next, she started making onesies because according to her: “People don’t think twice about buying baby clothes.”

In 2006, Keriotis named her greeting card and clothing line Dharma Love, bought a heat-transfer printing press and made a number of signature products.

“The line keeps evolving. People wanted greeting cards, then hats, so I started making hats and they became our No. 1 selling product. Then I started making sweatshirts,” she says. Keriotis also did a lot of research in order to source hemp and certified organic/socially accountable cotton garments to print her images on.

“There are no children involved [in the making of the garments]; people work in good conditions. These hemp products sustain a weaving village in Guatemala,” Keriotis says.

The sustainably sourced fabrics she uses and the imprints on her bags, hoodies and beanies wash and wear well. One customer in the Dharma Love store says that the messenger bag that she’s had since Dharma Love’s inception is still holding up beautifully.

14

After Audubon: Art, Observations and Natural Science

Keriotis first moved to South Lake Tahoe in 1996, but left and came back three times, finally settling in South Lake in 2013.

“Part of me wanted to be in the city and part of me wanted to be in the mountains,” she says. Keriotis’ brother is a local writer and literature professor and she came to embrace outdoor mountain culture over fast-paced city life.

“I have a beautiful community here and my friends kept telling me to come back,” she says.

For Dharma Love, Keriotis found a house that could fit her production process to keep up with the demand from the wholesalers, but then her customers mentioned that it would be nice if Dharma Love opened a storefront. Keriotis may have had some major ebbs and flows in her life, but her customers have always led her down the right path. In 2017, she opened a flagship store in the Swisslooking shopping center at 2520 Lake Tahoe Blvd. A section of her space is

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Dharma Love bags; Dharma Love’s Anastasia Keriotis; Dharma Love hemp purses.

partitioned off to hold her two small printing presses and works in progress.

Keriotis has also been selling Dharma Love products at music festivals and farmers’ markets. It’s one of her favorite aspects to the business because it allows her to personally connect with her customers.

“One woman came up to me and told me about her bag that she had for 10 years that she bought in Cupertino. She called her husband over and said, ‘This is the woman who made the bag that I love.’ It gives me chills just thinking about it,” Keriotis says. “People ask why I still do these events. It’s to connect with people. That’s what makes you who you are. I want to send something beautiful and positive out in the world and so when people tell me their stories that means everything to me.” | dharmalove.com 

Nevada Museum of Art Reno | Feb. 21-April 21

Contemporary artists such as Penelope Gottlieb, Kara Maria and Donald Farnsworth pick up from where John James Audubon left off in new, celebratory and sometimes critical ways. | (775) 329-3333, nevadaart.org

Ann Johnston: Quilts of the Sierra Nevada Nevada Museum of Art Reno | Feb. 21-May 19

Featuring more than 30 of Ann Johnston’s large-scale quilts inspired by the Sierra Nevada. Johnston’s quilts make creative use of patterns and textures to create literal, abstract, and sometimes completely imaginative representations of the area. | (775) 329-3333, nevadaart.org

Art Exhibit: Clarissa Stephens and Teal Francis The Potentialist Workshop | Reno | Feb. 21-28 Exhibit of the works of Clarissa Stephens and Teal Francis. An Artists’ in Reno reception is on Feb. 23 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

This event hosted by Friends of Black Rock/ High Rock. | (775) 686-8201, potentialistworkshop.com

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

Arts

THE

Knitting Group Atelier | Truckee | Feb. 26-Dec. 31

The group is open to all knitters, crocheters, loom artists every Tuesday. whatever your thread, you are welcome. This is a not a class, it’s a group intended for individuals who enjoy the company of other yarn artists. Bring a project or start a new one. 4-6 p.m. | (530) 386-2700, ateliertruckee.com

PHOTO EXHIBIT

HIGHLIGHTS NEVADA

Nevada Arts Council has unveiled a new traveling photo exhibition, “Home Means Nevada,” currently on display at the Nevada Legislature in Carson City, Nev. The exhibition features the works of 15 contemporary photographers, whose works echo famous photographs and artwork from the late 1800s and early 1900s. The exhibit highlights some of the unique treasures found on federally managed lands across the state from bighorns to Burning Man, to the ancient rock art and petroglyphs in the Gold Butte area. | nvculture.org/nevadaartscouncil

Adult Coloring Truckee Library | Truckee | Feb. 27

“Standing Stately: The Ancient Bristlecone Pine” Kelly Carroll | Nevada Legislature

Pine Needle Basket Weaving Workshop

Carson City Community Center Carson City | Feb. 21-28

North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Feb. 21-Oct. 3

The Capital City Arts Initiative presents its exhibition “Korea ’76” with work by artists Eugene Rolfe and Gig Depio in the Community Center’s Sierra Room until Feb. 28. The images reflect both artists’ interest in the interweaving of Asian and American cultures, and America’s strong impact on other countries.

8 a.m.-5 p.m. | nevadahumanities.org

Auburn Ski Club | Truckee | Feb. 21-March 1

Entries are being accepted for Auburn Ski Club’s Junior Nationals Logo Contest to celebrate the 2020 U.S. Ski and Snowboard XC Junior Nationals being held at ASC from March 7 to 14, 2020. The contest is open to everyone and entries are being accepted until March 1.

Details online. | auburnskiclub.com

Beating the Odds, One Dog at a Time Artists Co-Op Gallery of Reno | Reno | Feb. 21-28 The Artists Co-Op Gallery of Reno holds its art show fundraiser benefiting the Canine Rehabilitation Center and Sanctuary. The show runs until Feb. 28. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | (775) 322-8896

Bethany Laranda Wood: The West at Hand Nevada Museum of Art | Reno | Feb. 21-March 3

“Tahoe Art League Presents”

Wilbur D. May Museum at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park Reno | Feb. 21-May 12

Lake Tahoe Community College | South Lake Tahoe | Feb. 21-March 23

Discover the stories and mythology of dragons throughout history and around the world.

Get a thrill from larger-than-life animatronic dragons, try out a virtual reality experience that lets you ride a flying dragon, sit on a throne and sneak through a dragon’s lair, and more.

10 a.m. | (775) 785-5961, facebook.com

Nevadan Basques Portraits Reno City Hall Metro Gallery Reno | Feb. 21-March 1

Celebration of the Reno Philharmonic

Oscar Shorts Film Festival

Nevada Historical Society Carson City | Feb. 21-March 2

Joe Crowley Student Union, UNR Reno | Feb. 21-24

North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Feb. 21-24

North Tahoe Arts’ annual art exhibit and sale. Stop by our ARTisan Shop for great deals on handmade art by local artisans. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

Sierra Nevada College, Prim Library Incline Village | Feb. 21-March 15

The Lost World of Dragons

The Reno City Hall Metro Gallery presents “Nevadan Basques, portraits by Zoe Bray.”

Her portraits differ from the traditional portrayal of Basque people. Instead of focusing on external markers of identity, Bray addresses the individuality of her models and how they “choose to be Basque and American.” | (775) 334-6264, reno.gov

Fab N Funky

Colors of Lake Tahoe

This special weekend consists of free afternoon and evening film viewings followed by informal discussion. 3-8 p.m. | visitcarsoncity.com

While working in the field with the Land Arts Program of the American West, Bethany Wood collected images and impressions of major land features. Her works take some of the largest land interventions in the West and transforms them into small intricate sculptures. | (775) 329-3333, nevadaart.org

Historical Society exhibit celebrates 50 years of “The Biggest Little Orchestra in the World: the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra.”

The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra positively impacts quality of life in Northern Nevada. The orchestra promotes understanding of other cultures and provides educational outreach to children across Northern Nevada. | (775) 6870646, nvculture.org

Join local basketweaver Karey Dodge as she shares her passion for Pine Needle Basketry. Participants will learn simple stitches and techniques used in this ancient art form.

12-4 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

Featuring artist Deborah Lawrence Shafer’s artworks from a collaboration between scientists at UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center and the artist. Schafer created the artworks using spectral measurements of Lake Tahoe taken by TERC scientists. Reception on Feb. 28, 5 to 7 p.m. | (775) 831-1314, sierranevada.edu

Carson City Community Center Carson City | Feb. 21-23

Showing the 2019 Oscar-Nominated Short Films for documentary films. 7-9:30 p.m. | brownpapertickets.com

Paul Valadez: Selections from the Great Mexican-American Songbook Nevada Museum of Art Reno | Feb. 21-April 21

Valadez re-envisions the idea of the songbook, integrating nostalgic images with Spanglish text, resulting in a dichotomy of oblique visual ideas that are equal parts humor and social commentary. 10 a.m. | (775) 329-3333, nevadaart.org

Truckee Library sets aside some space for adults to indulge their creativity by coloring pages with crayons, pencils and more. All materials provided. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | (530) 582-7846, madelynhelling.evanced.info

Open Mic

Gig Depio and Eugene Rolfe: “Korea ‘76”

International Film Weekend Auburn Ski Club’s Junior Nationals Logo Contest

THE ARTS

The annual “Tahoe Art League Presents” art show is running concurrently with a show in the Foyer Gallery by Catherine Lockner and a show of artist printmakers in the Halden Gallery. | talart.org

Word After Word Bookshop | Truckee | Feb. 27

Share poetry, memoirs, songs, flash fiction or other pieces of writing. The event is open to all ages. 5:30-7:30 p.m. | (530) 536-5099, wordafterwordbooks.com

Bernard Schopen Reading and Signing Sundance Books and Music | Reno | Feb. 27

Nevada Writers Hall of Fame member Bernard Schopen returns to Sundance for a reading and signing of his latest book, “The Dying Time,” a poignant observation on the process of aging, astute and insightful as it is suspenseful intrigue. 6:30-7:30 p.m. | (775) 786-1188

College Art Exhibit North Tahoe Arts Tahoe City | Feb. 28-March 25

College art exhibit. Artists’ reception on March 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

Lifescapes Incline Village Library Incline Village | March 1-Aug. 7

A memoir-writing program for seniors. 2-4 p.m. | (775) 832-4130, washoelibrary.us

Writers in the Woods: Lee Herrick Writers in the Woods: Alice Anderson Sierra Nevada College | Incline Village | Feb. 22-23 Alice Anderson, a recipient of the Sarah Lawrence Poetry Prize, is a memoirist and poet. She will give a talk on Friday night, with a workshop on Saturday. 7-9 p.m. | (775) 8311314, sierranevada.edu

Sierra Nevada College Incline Village | March 1-2

Lee Herrick is Fresno Poet Laureate Emeritus (2015-2017) and author of three poetry collections, “Scar and Flower” (forthcoming in 2019), “Gardening Secrets of the Dead” and “This Many Miles from Desire.” 7-9 p.m. | (775) 831-1314, sierranevada.edu

Meshes Video Art with Petra Cortright The Holland Project | Reno | Feb. 24

A monthly meet-up of contemporary video artists to screen his or her work alongside video material that informs, inspires or provides context to their practice. 7-9 p.m. | (775) 742-1858, hollandreno.org

Evening of Poetry Kings Beach Library Kings Beach | March 6-Feb. 3

Join an Evening of Poetry. Bring original poetry, favorite poems or just come listen. First Wednesday of each month. 6-7 p.m. | (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov

Art Fun Day Tahoe Art League Art Center South Lake Tahoe | Feb. 26

Join an evening of watercolor painting on greeting cards to use as Thank You notes to the community. Bring watercolors and brushes. Also accepting art supplies for Tahoe Valley Elementary School. 5-8:30 p.m. | talart.org

Empty Bowls/Open Studio

Gathering of Artists North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | March 6-April 1

This free program offers artists the opportunity to meet other artists and work together in a shared studio space. Artists are invited to bring their latest projects to work on in shared studio space. On first and third Wednesdays.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

Ogres-Holm Pottery Carson City | Feb. 26-April 2

Create an empty bowl to donate to charity.

Instruction will be offered to create and paint a bowl or create something on our own during open studio session. Open studio time is free of charge and open to the public. 6-8:30 p.m. | visitcarsoncity.com

Visit the Event Calendar at TheTahoeWeekly.com for a complete list of events.

15

FUN & GAMES

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Horoscopes

FIRE

EARTH

AIR

WATER

Puzzles

Michael O’Connor is an astrologer, counselor and life coach | SunStarAstrology.com

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) You have entered an expansive period. It refers to your career and social status in general. Mercury in your sign is in one of its more challenging signs, yet you may be able to harness its power. Ironically, this may prove especially true when it turns retrograde in a couple of weeks. Make efforts to turn the tide and get a momentum going now, you will need it.

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) Balancing a spectrum of complex urges is a central theme now. On one hand, you seek retreat. On the other hand, you yearn to travel. Meanwhile, you are determined to activate changes linked to finances.

Investment is the key word regarding the finances, but since Uranus is involved, you want to work less and be less responsible. Travel to retreat and reflect.

Taurus (Apr 20-May 21) Exploring new reaches of your sense of individuality includes forging new alliances. You are in the mood to bring your ideas and visions down to earth. Or, you need new input to bring them to the next level. Either way, this probably requires the support of others. What is likely is that you are keen to explore your options and want several to compare.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 21) Dreams of security and abundance are dancing in your mind. In some respects, you realize that certain things cannot be changed, for example, the attitudes and choices of others or realities on the larger world stage. But, you can take measures to secure your own foundation. This could well include your income flow. More social access is also featured.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22) Your confidence levels are warming like a big pot of water on low heat. Yet, change is also brewing.

Also, the Sun, Mercury, and Neptune in Pisces are already and will continue to have a melting effect on your relationships. It may take until mid-April before the fog fully lifts. Take it slow and do what you can to prepare for a bigger push then.

Libra (Sep 22-Oct 22) You are entering a cycle during which time your health may be challenged. You may be that much more susceptible to picking up flu bugs. Synchronicity may also play a role and lead you right into the nest.

Yet, with awareness, you can divert your focus and avoid it. Wash your hands and boost your immune system. You have been… reminded.

Scorpio (Oct 22-Nov 21) A creative cycle is underway. You may want to engage it with contemplative moments that allow you to dream more than take action. You are keen to increase your lot, however, and this does require effort. Also, changes are brewing on relationship fronts and these should already be quite evident. As you look to the future, your thoughts are philosophical.

Sagittarius (Nov 21-Dec 21) As is probably true of many others of late, you feel expansive yet also strongly drawn inward.

The Pisces effect of the fish swimming in opposite directions comes to mind. Discernment must be engaged whether to and when to swim against the current, pause and hold your position or retreat for a while. The third option is likely, at least what you would choose if you could.

Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22) Balancing a philosophical perspective with a rebellious urge is your next major challenge. In some respects, you feel done. Done with responsibilities and commitments, done with power plays between people, done with having to assert and prove yourself.

These feelings will likely amount to a passing phase, but it may linger for a while.

Capricorn (Dec 21-Jan 19) You may fare better than most during this Pisces season. So strong is it that it will influence Aries time as well. No shadow for the groundhog is one of the signs. Yet, this just might prove to be the rhythm and flow you yearn for at this time. Still, you too must dig a little deeper to access hidden reserves of faith. Doing so could prove productive, even.

Leo (Jul 22-Aug 23) Aquarius (Jan 19-Feb 19) Circumstances are pushing you to focus harder than you would otherwise choose. You yearn to enter new territory and activate a fresh start, especially regarding your social network. You are wise to do so, at least between now and autumn as Jupiter entering Sagittarius may not produce as many opportunities later. Look for the openings.

CryptoQuip

If you are wondering what is required of you these days. The answer is simple: more. Yet, you have entered a cauldron of change and, consequently, your energy levels may lower than usual. This cycle will continue for a few weeks anyway. However, changes in your public and professional life meanwhile are pushing you to respond.

Why does the server at our diner always get ill? I believe it must be something in the waiter.

Hocus Focus differences: 1. Woman has headband, 2. Sunglasses are different, 3. Boy’s shirt has buttons, 4. Tree is wider, 5. Showman’s “arms” are different, 6. Boy is taller.

16

LIVE MUSIC, SHOWS & NIGHTLIFE

Chi McClean

E N T E RTA I N M E N T

CALENDAR

FEB. 21-MARCH 7, 2019

FEBRUARY 21 | THURSDAY

MUSIC SCENE

Music SCENE Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

L A K E TA H O E ’ S A P R È S - S K I T R O U B A D O U R STORY BY SEAN McALINDIN

Galileo - Stars In His Eyes Bruka Theatre, Reno, 11 a.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Chi McClean 22 Bistro, Olympic Valley, 3 p.m.

Tuck Wilson Granlibakken Tahoe, Tahoe City, 6-9 p.m.

Brother Dan Boomtown Casino, Verdi, 6-10 p.m.

Kip Yager Granlibakken Tahoe, Tahoe City, 6-9 p.m.

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Live Music Cottonwood Hilltop Restaurant, Truckee, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

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

String Cheese Incident MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 7 p.m.

Thirsty Thursday with DJ Trivia MidTown Wine Bar, Reno, 7-9 p.m.

Oscar Shorts Film Festival Joe Crowley Student Union, UNR, Reno, 7-9:30 p.m.

“Sirens” Restless Artists Theatre Company, Sparks, 7:30 p.m.

John Caponera Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Shakespeare in Love Good Luck Macbeth Theatre Company, Reno, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

Stampede Country Music & Dance Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

KawtNKandy 1up, Reno, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.

Scott Pemberton Band MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 11 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

FEBRUARY 22 | FRIDAY Galileo - Stars In His Eyes Bruka Theatre, Reno, 11 a.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Chi McClean Martis Camp, Truckee, 2:30 p.m.

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

Tuck Wilson Granlibakken Tahoe, Tahoe City, 6-9 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

“I

keep thinking I’m hearing my name,” says Chi McClean as we sit down as Coffeebar in Truckee.

The easygoing singer, songwriter and freeskier with long, brown hair and a laidback accent was born in Manhattan and grew up in Oyster Bay, Long Island.

“ I had my first rock-star moments and I told myself I’m never gonna do a job that I don’t believe in again.”

–Chi McClean “It’s the same town as Billy Joel,” says the rootsy folk rocker. “But our music couldn’t be any more different.”

The son of financial consultants, McClean received formal music training at Green Vale School in Glen Head, N.Y., and Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts.

Everything changed when he heard Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin on his schoolbus driver’s eight-track tape player.

“His name was Big Mike,” says McClean with a tear in his eye. “He played great music, but one day we convinced him to take us through the drive-thru at Burger King and he got fired.”

Meanwhile, the able youngster had learned to played “Hey Joe,” “Purple Haze,” “Stairway to Heaven” and other classics on a black and white Stratocaster. His middle-school garage band, Feedback, was paid in Chinese food for its first gig at Golden Wok. Following graduation from Colgate University, where he once opened up for Coolio at the spring fling with college group Flat Soul aka The Chi Tones, McClean dreamt of skiing in Bariloche, Argentina, before blowing out his knee on the professional freeskiing circuit.

“I relocated to San Francisco, cut my hair, got a good job and worked in the financial sector,” he says. “I felt lost.”

When his stake at the next big thing in music startups (Liquid Audio) tanked, McClean was already playing more and more gigs in the San Francisco Marina. He’d go surfing at Pacifica Beach in the afternoon before putting on the popular Chi Time show in the city at night.

“I had my first rock-star moments and I told myself I’m never gonna do a job that I don’t believe in again,” he says.

McClean’s 2009 debut record “Something Out There” was released to a sold-out

ACOUSTIC ROCK

crowd at S.F.’s Café du Nord. A one-off performance on CBS’s “The Early Show” led to several years of songwriting and performing in Nashville where his original songs appeared on television shows such as “Hart of Dixie.”

“The whole process not knowing anybody in the music business, it is this whole journey of discovery,” he says. “If you’re [in Nashville] and you’re a halfway decent guy, a good musician and a fun hang, you can get along in this town. But in some ways, it’s this hollow, soulless place.”

On tiring of unproductive writer’s rounds and low-paying gigs, McClean moved back to California to ski and play his Southerntinged folk rock on the resort circuit nearly 200 days a year.

“I love the lifestyle up here,” he says.

“While it might not be the best place for my music career, I can make a living, ski and be just a few hours away from worldclass surf.”

After riding all day on the mountains or ocean, McClean heads to any number of local watering holes to croon and strum for the après-ski crowds.

“It’s a fun continuation of an already fun day,” he says. “The music is just the icing on the cake.”

In the springtime, he mellows down to Sonoma County where he makes a decent living performing at local wineries.

“People say I’m living the dream, but I do everything on my own,” says the musician based out of his 2014 Dodge Sprinter Van. “I’ve worked an office gig for a long time. This is what I consider my day job. I show up, I load in and I make people happy.”

Feb. 21 | 3 p.m.

22 Bistro | Olympic Valley

Feb. 22 | 2:30 p.m.

Martis Camp | Truckee

Feb. 22, March 1 | 6 p.m.

Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge | Tahoe City

March 2 | 3 p.m.

Sugar Bowl Ski Resort | Norden

March 8 | 6 p.m.

FiftyFifty Brewing Company | Truckee

March 9 | 2 p.m.

Village at Squaw | Olympic Valley

During the ever-brighter days of midwinter, McClean is dreaming up bigger things, writing more than ever and working on a fourth album with engineer Richie Biggs, who is known for his work with neo-folk group The Civil Wars.

“All the co-writers in Nashville, they always say to write what you know,” he says. “What I know about is spending a lot of time alone on the road, failed relationships, things that haven’t gone as planned.

It’s just real life stuff. If you’re on the road and music is your mistress, other things fall to the wayside. It’s not necessarily negative or positive, but that’s how it is. I think if I ever had a chance to do something with my music, this [album] is going to be the one.” | chimcclean.com 

17

MUSIC SCENE

TheTahoeWeekly.com

THE

STRING CHEESE

INCIDENT

Feb. 21-23 | 8 p.m.

MontBleu Resort Casino | Stateline, Nev. COLORADO’S PERENNIAL jamgrass stars, The String Cheese Incident, are back in the groove and ready to deliver three nights of stellar musicianship and family friendly vibes. | montbleuresort.com

Scott McCormick

KABAKA PYRAMID

JAMGRASS

FEB. 22 | FRIDAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

REGGAE

Feb. 24 | 10 p.m.

MontBleu Resort Casino | Stateline, Nev. HAILING FROM KINGSTON, Jamaica, Kabaka Pyramid is a revolutionary lyricist with a unique musical style that blends the power, energy and melody of reggae with the lyricism of hip hop. | montbleuresort.com

ILIZA SHLESINGER

COMEDY

March 2 | 7:30 p.m.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino | Reno, Nev. ORIGINALLY FROM DALLAS, Texas, Iliza Shlesinger brings her “Elder Millennial” comedy tour to Reno for one night only. | silverlegacyreno.com

18

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Rex Meredith Lex Nightclub, Reno, 6:30 p.m.

Live Music Sands Regency Casino Hotel, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

String Cheese Incident MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 7 p.m.

Oscar Shorts Film Festival Joe Crowley Student Union, UNR, Reno, 7-10 p.m.

“Sirens” Restless Artists Theatre Company, Sparks, 7:30 p.m.

John Caponera Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Shakespeare in Love Good Luck Macbeth Theatre Company, Reno, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Live comedy Carson Nugget, Carson City, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Reno Freestyle Battle The Rack, Reno, 7:30-10:30 p.m.

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

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

Dust In My Coffee The Saint, Reno, 8 p.m.

The Vagina Monologues Lake Tahoe Community College, Duke Theater, South Lake Tahoe, 8-10 p.m.

The Run Up Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 8 p.m.

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

Eurorave III w/ DJ Diskoteka + Octophonix The Holland Project, Reno, 9-11 p.m.

Jake Nielson Pastime Club, Truckee, 9 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Dirt Monkey & SubDocta The BlueBird Nightclub, Reno, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Fresh Makers Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9 p.m.

Just Us Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9 p.m.

Smoke & Mirrors Caberet Hard Rock- Vinyl, Stateline, 9 p.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

John Caponera Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9:30 p.m.

Larkin Poe Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 10-11:59 p.m.

Phers & Krakanov Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 10 p.m.

Soul -Funk -Disco Party The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.-12 a.m.

DJ Show Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Monet X Change Splash, Reno, 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

EOTO MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 11 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe Ailey II Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, Reno

FEBRUARY 23 | SATURDAY Galileo - Stars In His Eyes Bruka Theatre, Reno, 11 a.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Dani Joy & Perry Speakeasy Series Mountain Music Parlor, Reno, 12-9:30 p.m.

Live DJ Homewood Mountain Resort, Homewood, 12-3 p.m.

Live music Alpine Bar, Alpine Meadows, 2 p.m.

Lost Whiskey Engine Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Olympic Valley, 2-4 p.m.

Oscar Shorts Film Festival Joe Crowley Student Union, UNR, Reno, 2-5 p.m.

Live music Village at Squaw, Olympic Valley, 2:30-5:30 p.m.

Live DJ Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 3-6 p.m.

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

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Peter DeMattei Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar, Truckee, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Live Music Sands Regency Casino Hotel, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

String Cheese Incident MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 7 p.m.

Red Dragon Cartel Nugget Casino Resort, Sparks, 7-11:30 p.m.

Oscar Shorts Film Festival Joe Crowley Student Union, UNR, Reno, 7-10 p.m.

Come in from the Cold Bartley Ranch Regional Park, Reno, 7 p.m.

Mother Mercy Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 7 p.m.

“Sirens” Restless Artists Theatre Company, Sparks, 7:30 p.m.

Rick Springfield Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 7:30 p.m.

John Caponera Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Shakespeare in Love Good Luck Macbeth Theatre Company, Reno, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Live comedy Carson Nugget, Carson City, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

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

Satchy, Grant Nobleman, Alex Hellacaster The Holland Project, Reno, 8-11 p.m.

Alias Smith MidTown Wine Bar, Reno, 8-11 p.m.

Toni Braxton Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 8 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

MUSIC SCENE

BECOMING THE

Wood Brothers STORY BY SEAN McALINDIN

March 6 | 8 p.m. | Crystal Bay Casino | Crystal Bay, Nev.

AMERICANA

C

hris Wood’s earliest memories of playing music with his older brother Oliver come from when they recorded some rock and jazz tracks to an old fourtrack cassette player in 1980s Boulder, Colo.

“Music always brought us together,” says the bassist and composer.

The boys’ father, William Wood, was a Harvard-educated molecular biologist who played with Joan Baez in 1960s Cambridge, Mass. Their mother was a poet.

“Literature was always an influence,” says Wood. “Our house was filled with books, as well as our dad’s singing and guitar playing. He was the first live music we saw. When you’re a kid, that’s powerful.

You want to imitate that.”

After attending New England Conservatory of Music, Wood relocated to New York City where he founded the seminal, avant-noise, improv group Medeski, Martin and Wood, who released their 28th album, “Omisphere,” in October. “[Drummer] Billy [Martin] wanted to get off the road,” says Wood of the band’s slowdown in 2006. “It was kind of this coincidence the universe made happen.

Right at the same time some of those desires were first being expressed, that’s when Oliver and I connected. I was excited to do something in the singer-songwriter context using what I’d learned from MMW.” For years, Wood crisscrossed the country with both bands until he was able to earn a living playing in a duo with Oliver.

For their self-produced sixth album, “One Drop of Truth,” The Wood Brothers were recently nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best Americana Album.

“A lot of the time when people prepare to make a record, they write all the songs and are hoping the 10 best ones will make it,” says Wood. “You book a session that may be long or short depending on your budget and you try to record all the songs at once. It’s such an overwhelming process, that you need someone who’s not so close to the music to lend it an objective ear.”

This is traditional role of a record producer. Instead of going down that road again, Wood and his brother along with drummer Jano Rix decided that if they had a new song in their heads, they’d go into the studio, have fun with it and make a record that very same day.

“We wouldn’t take it too seriously,” he says. “It freed us up to try new things. The best part is we would make the recording and completely forget about it. That’s the only way to self-produce and do it well.

You have to get away from things so you hear how they really are. Then you listen to it with fresh ears and everything becomes obvious.”

Over the course of a year, The Wood Brothers recorded song by song in an ambient, abandoned Nashville church and the small, dry-sounding rooms of Electric Thunder Studios.

“Our career as the Wood Brothers has been a manageable build over time,” he says. “I’ve see people go big with one hit and it’s overwhelming and it can mess with your head. When you build slowly like this, you create relationships within the band.

It feels like the family business we set out to do.”

“I do think this record in some ways is our best yet,” he admits. “We’ve learned it is the most us. As a team, we enjoy working together and everyone has strengths they bring to the project. We’ve taken the time for all those strengths to meld together into the band we have become. That doesn’t happen overnight. It takes a while to turn those skills into trust and mutual respect over the years.”

Having found success with two wildly distinctive trios over the course of three decades, it isn’t hard for Wood to keep himself busy these days.

“It’s sort of all music, but the process is really different and the way we function as bands is really different,” he says. “Ultimately, when you’re up on stage performing, whether you are playing a song a million times or you are improvising, it should feel the same. But what you do to get to that point is definitely different. How you prepare for it, the craft of songwriting and working on shows, are all completely different. With MMW, it was more important to have some good meals and some good wine and feel connected as opposed to planning it all out. With The Woods Brothers, we’ve got more of a live show. In the end, it’s all work I love.” | crystalbaycasino.com 

19

MUSIC SCENE

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Folk opera debuts

Performers for “The Mountains Are Pretty.” | Courtesy Kurt Beckering

“T

he Mountains are Pretty” is a folk opera written and produced by local poet and playwright Kurt Beckering under the pen name Kurtis Maximus. This original show, produced and performed by Tahoe locals, will premiere at Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema on March 2 at 8 p.m. and March 3 at 2 p.m.

Ten years in the making, “The Mountains are Pretty” spins a dark, twisted, tale of a miner who falls into despair. An outrageous cast of characters takes you on a journey into the depths of humanity, framed within an original alternate world, where nothing is as it appears. Immortality reigns in this no-holds barred drama that will leave audiences laughing and simultaneously in awe of the death-defying aerial movements, choreographed by Leah Pivirotto in collaboration with the Tahoe Flow Arts Studio. A string band of musicians from Sneaky Creatures, No Deal, the Innapropriators and Metal Echo will set the mood.

All proceeds from these shows will be allocated for the purchasing of sound and lighting gear for this and further productions to allow for continued, home-grown, works of performance art, with a commitment to collaborations of all kinds.

This show is best suited to an openminded, adult audience; leave youngsters at home.

Tickets are $30. | tahoearthauscinema.com 

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C A L E N D A R | FEB. 21-MARCH 7, 2019 FEB. 23 | SATURDAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

The Vagina Monologues Lake Tahoe Community College, Duke Theater, South Lake Tahoe, 8-10 p.m.

Russell Peters Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 8-10:30 p.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8 p.m.

Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy 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.

New Wave Crave Boomtown Casino, Verdi, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Fresh Makers Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9 p.m.

Just Us Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9 p.m.

Smoke & Mirrors Caberet Hard Rock- Vinyl, Stateline, 9 p.m.

John Caponera Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9:30 p.m.

Ignite Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Larkin Poe Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 10-11:59 p.m.

DJ Show Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Joe Marcinek All-Stars MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 11 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

FEBRUARY 24 | SUNDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

“Sirens” Restless Artists Theatre Company, Sparks, 2 p.m.

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

Live music Alpine Bar, Tahoe City, 2 p.m.

Oscar Shorts Film Festival Joe Crowley Student Union, UNR, Reno, 2-5 p.m.

Live DJ Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 3-6 p.m.

Reno Wind Symphony Nightingale Concert Hall, Reno, 3 p.m.

Apres Ski Live Music Hard Rock-Center Bar, Stateline, 3-6 p.m.

An evening at the Oscars Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 4:30-8:30 p.m.

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Bob Gardner Boomtown Casino, Verdi, 6-10 p.m.

Tim McGraw Reno Events Center, Reno, 7 p.m.

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

The Coathangers and SadGirl The Holland Project, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

Marisela Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 7 p.m.

John Caponera Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Deep House Lounge The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.-12 a.m.

Kabaka Pyramid & the Bebble Rockers, DJ Treez MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Patrick Major Carson Valley Inn, Minden Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

FEBRUARY 25 | MONDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

West Coast Swing Dance Carson Lanes Family Fun Center, Carson City, 5:30-10 p.m.

Karaoke Polo Lounge, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

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

Open Mic Night Alibi Ale Works - Truckee Public House, Truckee, 7-10 p.m.

Open Mic Red Dog Saloon, Virginia City, 7-10 p.m.

Once Upon a Dream Showcase InnerRhythms, Truckee, 7:30 p.m.

Motown on Monday The Loving Cup, Reno, 9 p.m.-3 a.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

FEBRUARY 26 | TUESDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Tommy Ciccone Verde Mexican Rotisserie, South Lake Tahoe, 5 p.m.

Mark Miller Boomtown Casino, Verdi, 6-10 p.m.

Bingo Tuesday’s with T~n~Keys MidTown Wine Bar, Reno, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Between the Buried and Me, Tesseract, Astronoid Cargo at Whitney Peak Hotel, Reno, 7 p.m.

Sam Valdez + Rodes Rollins The Holland Project, Reno, 7-10 p.m.

Once Upon a Dream Showcase InnerRhythms, Truckee, 7:30 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

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

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

FEBRUARY 27 | WEDNESDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Wild Winter Wednesdays River Ranch Lodge, Tahoe City, 2-10:30 p.m.

Open Mic Word After Word Bookshop, Truckee, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Open Mic with Canyon White Red Dog Saloon, Virginia City, 7 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

Open Mic Anything Goes Jimmy Bs, Reno, 9-11:30 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Common Kings w/ Nattali Rize Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 9 p.m.

Karaoke Reno Pizza Baron, Reno, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

FEBRUARY 28 | THURSDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Dale Poune Boomtown Casino, Verdi, 6-10 p.m.

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Live Music Cottonwood Hilltop Restaurant, Truckee, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

University Symphony Orchestra Nightingale Concert Hall, Reno, 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

Stampede Country Music & Dance Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.

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

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

MARCH 1 | FRIDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

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

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Chi McClean Sunnyside Lodge & Restaurant, Tahoe City, 6 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Live Music Sands Regency Casino Hotel, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

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

Evening of Improv Comedy Brewery Arts Center, Carson City, 7-9 p.m.

MUSIC SCENE

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

Record Company Cargo at Whitney Peak Hotel, Reno, 7-11:30 p.m.

Kendal Naughton, Matt Axton & Ryan Incerpi Jake’s On The Lake, Tahoe City, 7 p.m.

“Ahknaton” Bruka Theatre, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Live comedy Carson Nugget, Carson City, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

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

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

Margret’s Funk Band Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 8 p.m.

Gladys Knight Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 9 p.m.

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

Whiskey Preachers Davidson’s Distillery, Reno, 9 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

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

Bias & Dunn Bar of America, Truckee, 9-11 p.m.

Smoke & Mirrors Caberet Hard Rock- Vinyl, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Live music Hacienda del Lago, Tahoe City, 9 p.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9:30 p.m.

Soul -Funk -Disco Party The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.-12 a.m.

DJ Show Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

MARCH 2 | SATURDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Live DJ Homewood Mountain Resort, Homewood, 12-3 p.m.

Groove Foundry Northstar California Resort, Truckee, 2-5 p.m.

Live music Alpine Meadows, Olympic Valley, 2-5 p.m.

River Dog Shakedown Village at Squaw, Olympic Valley, 2 p.m.

Live DJ Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 3-6 p.m.

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

Dinner Murder Mystery SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Reno Airport, Reno, 5:30-9 p.m.

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Aspire Reno Reno Christian Fellowship, Reno, 6-9 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Live Music Sands Regency Casino Hotel, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

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

Reno Pops Orchestra Nightingale Concert Hall, Reno, 7 p.m.

RIVER DOG

SHAKEDOWN March 2 | 2 p.m.

Village at Squaw | Olympic Valley

RIVER DOG SHAKEDOWN out of Leavenworth, Wash., plays folk, rock, bluegrass and country music. The band was formed by Emily Keenan (guitar, bass guitar) and Trevor Wire (banjo, electric guitar) on the banks of the Wenatchee River when a dog greeted them with a wet hello. | squawalpine.com

TOMMY CICCONE OLD TIME

‘Visceral’ Cargo at Whitney Peak Hotel, Reno, 7 p.m.

Come in from the Cold Bartley Ranch Regional Park, Reno, 7 p.m.

Iliza: Elder Millennial Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30-9 p.m.

“Ahknaton” Bruka Theatre, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Sinbad Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 7:30 p.m.

Live comedy Carson Nugget, Carson City, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

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

The Mountains Are Pretty Tahoe Art Haus, Tahoe City, 8 p.m.

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

One Grass Two Grass & Lost Whiskey Engine Alibi Aleworks Public House, Truckee, 9-12 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

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

Bias & Dunn Bar of America, Truckee, 9-11 p.m.

Smoke & Mirrors Caberet Hard Rock- Vinyl, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9:30 p.m.

Ignite Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 10 p.m.

DJ Show Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

MARCH 3 | SUNDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

“Ahknaton” Bruka Theatre, Reno, 2 p.m.

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

The Mountains Are Pretty Tahoe Art Haus, Tahoe City, 2 p.m.

Live DJ Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 3-6 p.m.

Apres Ski Live Music Hard Rock-Center Bar, Stateline, 3-6 p.m.

That’s Amore!

Napa-Sonoma Grocery Company-South, Reno, 5-6:30 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

ROCK & POP

Feb. 21, 24, 28, March 3 | 12 p.m.

California Burger Co. | Heavenly Village Feb. 21, 24, 28, March 3 | 5 p.m.

Base Camp Pizza Co. | Heavenly Village Feb. 22-23, March 1-2 | 3 p.m.

Tamarack Lodge Heavenly Mountain Resort Feb. 26, March 5 | 5 p.m.

Verde Mexican Rotisserie South Lake Tahoe LIFE AS A WORKING musician has allowed Tommy Ciccone to acquire a deep catalog of popular music spanning more than half a century. He now lives and plays in South Lake Tahoe. Don’t miss him. | theshopsatheavenly.com, skiheavenly. com, verdemexicanrotisserie.com

HISTORIAN & AUTHOR

MARK MCL AUGHLIN’S NEWEST BOOK

Our mission is to reduce the incidence of hunger and its detrimental effects upon individuals, families, the community and the region.

O rd e r b o o k s d i re c t a t

TheStormKing.com or pick up a copy at: • Geared for Games • Alice’s Mountain Market located at Squaw Valley

• Word After Word Bookshop • Gratitude Gifts • Mind Play

Group presentations · In-home talks

(530) 546-5612 · TheStormKing.com

WEEKLY FOOD DISTRIBUTION: MONDAYS TAHOE CITY

WEDNESDAYS KINGS BEACH

3:00pm to 3:30pm Fairway Community Ctr. 330 Fairway Dr.

3:00pm to 3:30pm Community House 265 Bear St.

TUESDAYS TRUCKEE

THURSDAYS INCLINE VILLAGE

3:30pm to 4pm Sierra Senior Center 10040 Estates Dr.

3:00pm to 3:30pm St. Patrick’s Church 341 Village Blvd.

(775) 298-4161

|

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21

TheTahoeWeekly.com

MARCH 6 | WEDNESDAY

SOUL

GLADYS KNIGHT March 1 | 9 p.m.

Grand Sierra Resort | Reno, Nev. KNOWN AS THE EMPRESS of Soul, Atlanta-born soul singer Gladys Knight found early success with The Pips before launching a long and successful solo career.

Come spend an evening with American music royalty. | grandsierraresort.com

MARCH 2 | SATURDAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

That’s Amore!

Napa-Sonoma Grocery Company-South, Reno, 7-8:30 p.m.

One Night of Queen Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 7:30 p.m.

Joey Medina Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

An Evening At the Improv Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

Deep House Lounge The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.-12 a.m.

Major Motion Pictures · Independent Films Live Music · Dance Performances

Alita: Battle Angel Feb. 21-28 Haus BeerFest SnowFest Event March 2 The Mountains Are Pretty folk opera with Tahoe Flow Arts March 2-3 Evolution of Organic with Tahoe Food Hub March 7 Captain Marvel March TBD Visit TahoeArtHausCinema.com for showtimes, schedule, events + tkts

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

22

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

MARCH 4 | MONDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

West Coast Swing Dance Carson Lanes Family Fun Center, Carson City, 5:30-10 p.m.

Bluegrass Open Jam Session Alibi Ale Works - Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6-9 p.m.

Karaoke Polo Lounge, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

Motown on Monday The Loving Cup, Reno, 9 p.m.-3 a.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

MARCH 5 | TUESDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Tommy Ciccone Verde Mexican Rotisserie, South Lake Tahoe, 5 p.m.

Bingo Tuesday’s with T~n~Keys MidTown Wine Bar, Reno, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Latin Dance Night Alibi Ale Works - Truckee Public House, Truckee, 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Danu Nightingale Concert Hall, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Raj Sharma Laugh Factory, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

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Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Wild Winter Wednesdays River Ranch Lodge, Tahoe City, 2-10:30 p.m.

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

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

Haystak Jub Jub’s Thirst Parlor, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Free Radicals Spring Concert Nightingale Concert Hall, Reno, 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Raj Sharma Laugh Factory, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

The Wood Brothers Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 8 p.m.

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

Open Mic Anything Goes Jimmy Bs, Reno, 9-11:30 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Karaoke Reno Pizza Baron, Reno, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

MARCH 7 | THURSDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Luke Stevenson Lone Eagle Grille, Incline Village, 6-10 p.m.

Live Music Glen Eagles Restaurant & Lounge, Carson City, 6:30-9 p.m.

Moe. MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 7 p.m.

“Ahknaton” Bruka Theatre, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Raj Sharma Laugh Factory, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

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Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

Stampede Country Music & Dance Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

Josh Miller

Live Music McP’s Irish Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

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

Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

Karaoke Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe

CALIFORNIA HONEYDROPS

MUSIC SCENE

Guitarfish announces lineup Guitarfish Music Festival has announced its initial lineup for the ninth annual festival from July 25 to 29 at Cisco Grove Campground. The lineup will feature The California Honeydrops, Yak Attack, Afrolicious, Smoked Out Soul, Diggin Dirt, Earth Arrow, Joy and Madness, Jimmy Leslie’s Guitarfish Family Band with more artists to be announced later. Tickets on sale. | guitarfishfestival.com

Classical Tahoe returns Classical Tahoe Festival has announced its eighth season at Sierra Nevada College from July 7 to Aug. 11. The annual event combines virtuoso concerts with music education and appreciation programs.

Under the direction of conductor and artistic director Joel Revzen, the nine-concert series will feature symphonies of Tchaikovsky, Brahms, Stravinsky, Mozart and others, in addition to works of lesser-known, diverse composers, along with works by Bach, Brahms and Debussy. There will also be a free family concert and Music Maker’s Faire. Tickets go on sale April 1. | classicaltahoe.org

Artists added to High Sierra The lineup keeps getting better for the High Sierra Music Festival from July 4 to 7 at Plumas Sierra County Fairgrounds in Quincy. Improvrock favorites Umphrey’s McGee, festival veterans Leftover Salmon, funk powerhouse quartet The New Mastersounds and the harmonies of Mandolin Orange have been added to this year’s lineup.

The McCoury Family, the first family of bluegrass, will also grace the festival with a number of different sets from Del McCoury Band, Del & Dawg and The Travelin’ McCourys, who won a Grammy award for Best Bluegrass Album. | highsierramusic.com

Local

FOOD & WINE, RECIPES, FEATURES & MORE

TA S T Y TIDBITS

Feb. 21-March 6, 2019

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Tips for hiring your own chef S T O R Y & P H O T O S B Y P R I YA H U T N E R

Courtesy Kynbo

Y

Kynbo adds Web site

The restaurant app Kynbo, created by Truckee locals John Doolan and Thao Doan, has expanded to include a new Web site.

The app and Web site are designed to help diners find a restaurant based on specific cravings of food, atmosphere and other criteria. | kynbo.com

ou live in and work in Tahoe and are too busy to cook and are planning a special occasion and want to throw a party.

Or, the snow is falling and you want to get out on the hill, but there is no food in the house and the last thing on your mind is food shopping and cooking. This is where a private chef, personal chef or caterer can come to your rescue.

What is the difference between a personal chef and a caterer? Private chefs commonly work for one individual or one family preparing all their meals. A personal chef prepares food for multiple clients sometimes delivering meals or preparing food in the clients’ home or vacation rental.

Both adhere to their clients’ dietary needs.

A caterer generally prepares food for large groups on special events.

“ I would encourage you to get creative with the vendor and see how you can achieve a great event

Farm Shop Tahoe Food Hub Tahoe City | Feb. 21, 22, 28, March 1

Shop for yourself and taste the difference that local makes. Choose from seasonal fruits and veggies, as well as a variety of local specialty food products and pasture-raised meet, eggs and dairy. 12-6 p.m. | tahoefoodhub.org

Third Thursday Tasting The Pour House | Truckee | Feb. 21

Enjoy a wine tasting each month. 5-7 p.m. | thepourhousetruckee.com

S’morey Time Village at Northstar | Truckee | Feb. 21

Gather ‘round the fire pit and listen to the story of how Tahoe came to be while roasting s’mores and enjoying warm beverages. Fun for the whole family. 6 p.m. | northstarcalifornia.com

Garden to Glass Mixology Tahoe Cross-Country Ski Area Tahoe City | Feb. 22

This back-country bartending event is mellow in nature and designed for snowshoe enthusiasts of all ability levels. Michelle Shea will provide some samples before a short snowshoe jaunt. All participants will leave with a Klean Kanteen gift; must be age 21.

5-7 p.m. $25 | alpenglowsports.com

Sweet Dreams Are Made of Cheese Flavor Studio | Reno | Feb. 22

Join a cheese tasting featuring a traditional Swiss meal of rare Alpkase and Raclette cheese from the Alps with sides and drinks.

6 p.m. $35 | theflavorstudio.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

at your price point.”

–Tommy Adkins The range of services chefs and caterers offer varies as do the prices. There are many factors that affect pricing and the cost of services. How fancy of a menu are you looking to serve? How many courses would you like? Do you want to serve organic food or develop a menu with special dietary preferences? How labor intensive is the meal or how difficult are the ingredients to procure and how expensive are they? All these influence the final cost.

The location of an event is also a consideration — an event in the middle of the woods with no power, on a mountain or on the shores of Lake Tahoe are unique and require special equipment to support the event.

Chefs’ rates differ. Some charge hourly and add the cost of goods on top of the rate. Rates can range from $40 to $95 per hour, depending on the time of year.

Expect higher rates during the holiday season. If your party is large, generally a per-head rate is applied. This could be anywhere from $25 per head on the low end for a simple menu to $150-plus per head for a high-end meal that includes appetizers, soup or salad, entrees, side dishes and dessert.

It is important to realize that it isn’t just about the cost of the ingredients; time and labor are huge factors. Planning menus, shopping, travel, prepping, cooking and cleaning are all part of the cost of a job. The chef or caterer may need assistants depending on the number of people at the party and whether it’s a sit-

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Dinner table set and ready for a party; Flourless Chocolate Cake with whipped cream and berries plated for clients; Mediterranean fish dinner plated by caterer; Kabobs and salad ready for a party.

down dinner or buffet. Hiring additional assistant cooks, servers and bartenders are all part of a chef ’s ability to create a successful event.

Tommy Adkins of EATS Cooking Company hosts special events in the Tahoe area. EATS stands for Ethical and Tastefully Simple. I met him at a benefit event for the Send It Foundation where he was preparing paella for people living with cancer.

“Negotiating a caterer’s price is much like negotiating any other good or service,” he says. “It is first beneficial to remember that you have different options to adjust the extent of the service and the price of the event. For example, if a caterer proposes a price that is out of your budget, I would encourage you to get creative with the vendor and see how you can achieve a great event at your price point by reducing some unnecessary features or services.

Secondly, it can be helpful for the client to begin the process by providing a desired budget. With this budget revealed, it is then easy for a caterer to show a client exactly what can be offered for the price point without the back and forth banter of contract negotiations.”

Contracts and deposits with contingencies are imperative. Sticker shock is no fun and if you are not accustomed to hosting a party, the costs can creep up quickly. Chefs and caterers are in business to serve the client.

For the client, the benefits of hiring a chef or caterer is he or she won’t need to worry. Personal chefs and caterers alleviate the stress of planning the meal, shopping for the menu, cooking and serving — leaving the client free to enjoy the party and the guests. 

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TA S T Y T I D B I T S CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

Chili CookOff Family Dinner Night

Get S’more Saturdays

Boys & Girls Club North Lake Tahoe Kings Beach | Feb. 27

Downtown Kings Beach Kings Beach | Feb. 23

Shop, dine and get s’more out of the Kings Beach businesses you love. On select winter Saturdays head to participating eateries and shops for something extra and unexpected, then stroll to the outdoor gathering area at Las Panchitas where there will be s’mores, heaters and fire pits, plus multiple chances to win valuable raffle prizes.

3-6 p.m. Free | (530) 546-9000, northtahoebusiness.org

Mixology Craft Cocktails

CALLING ALL

CRAWLERS Every fourth Saturday of the month, enter the wacky world of the Reno Beer Crawl. Attendees have an opportunity to sample domestic, nationally recognized and locally distributed craft beers across 15 unique bars and restaurants in downtown Reno.

Purchase a $5 admission ticket to receive a commemorative Reno Beer Crawl glass, wristband and map for this self-guided event. Then they can buy 6-ounce samples at each of the locations for $1 each. Sample options vary from bar to bar, so take time to check them out. Beer crawl dates are Feb. 23 and March 23. | renobeercrawl.com

Six Peaks Grille Olympic Valley | Feb. 23

Learn how to make three delicious craft cocktails with Six Peaks Grille master mixologist. Participants will use fresh, seasonal ingredients from the resort’s garden (when available). Small bites will be provided. Reservations required. 3-4 p.m. $60 | facebook.com

S’moresapalooza Northstar California Resort Truckee | Feb. 23

Want s’more reasons to love Northstar?

At 4 p.m. come to the Village Overlook to celebrate Northstar’s sweetest tradition, s’mores. See how the creative culinary team puts a spin on the traditional s’more with different s’more stations. 4 p.m. | (800) 466-6784

Art of Mixology The Ritz-Carlton Truckee | Feb. 24, March 3

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. 4-5 p.m. $60 | ritzcarlton.com

Taste some of the best chili in the area at Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe’s free February Family Dinner Night, The Chili Cookoff. The staff will try to earn your vote with their best chili at the Kings Beach Clubhouse.

5-7 p.m. Free | (530) 582-3760

Wine Walk Downtown Carson City Carson City | March 2

The Downtown Wine Walk held the first Saturday of every month. Purchase tickets at: The Carson Nugget, Cactus Jack’s, Carson Jewelry and Loan, Bella Fiore and Touched by Angels. 1-5 p.m. $15 | visitcarsoncity.com

Wine N Ice Truckee River Winery | Truckee | March 6

Truckee River Winery’s ninth annual icecarving competition, 2019 Wine N Ice will take place on March 6. A part of SnowFest!, the event is dedicated to Chris Banovich and will benefit the Truckee River Watershed Council.

Ten competitors will be given the chance to sculpt 300-pound blocks of ice into gorgeous, alluring and awe-inspiring sculptures. Free | truckeriverwinery.com

“Evolution of Organic” Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema Tahoe City | March 7

“Evolution of Organic” is the story of organic agriculture, told by those who built the movement. A motley crew of back-tothe-landers, spiritual seekers and farmers’ sons and daughters reject chemical farming and set out to explore organic alternatives.

Director Mark Kitchell will be at the screening for Q&A. 7:30 p.m. | tahoearthauscinema.com

Cooking Matters series Sierra Village Apartments office Truckee | Feb. 26

Class series includes how to easily prepare and shop for delicious and nutritious foods on a budget, free recipes and meals plans, how to stretch ingredients and food dollars, and hands-on food preparation and sampling.

Class is offered in English and Spanish. 10 a.m.12 p.m. Free | (530) 587-3769, tfhd.com

Visit the Event Calendar at TheTahoeWeekly.com for a complete list of events.

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N

apa Valley is undeniably one of the world’s greatest wine regions and volcanic activity over the past 150,000 years has much to do with that. This is most prevalent in the eastern Vaca Mountains, as well as its lower hillside vineyards.

I submit as evidence of the greatness of this east-side terroir the presence of such wine icons as Chappellet, Staglin Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and Shafer Vineyards, as well as a myriad of other standouts that access fruit from this area.

Chappellet on Pritchard Hill | Courtesy Napa Valley Vintners

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Valley Floor Vineyard wine, but a deep damson plum dusted with star anise, mace and cinnamon. The low fertility of the shallow soils also makes for small grapes with a high skin-to-pulp ratio that creates substantial tannins — all of which leads to great depth and complexity in the wines.

In a more general sense, the soils really make Napa one of the finest wine regions

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in the world.

Stag’s Leap | Courtesy Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

In a more general sense, the soils really make Napa one of the finest wine regions in the world. Because while Napa vintners certainly use top winemaking practices, so do many others. And while it has a warm Mediterranean climate necessary to fully ripen Cabernet Sauvignon and the beneficial fog and cooling coastal influence from the Pacific Ocean necessary to retain essential acids, there are many other California wine regions that share these traits.

So in addition to those characteristics, what really separates Napa on the winegrape-growing scale is geology that include more than half of the world’s soil orders.

These create the complex growing medium that provides the right amount of porosity for water drainage, varied but correct amounts of depth and fertility that can be managed to allow the vines to struggle enough, and the myriad other soil characteristics that lead to exceptional wine grapes.

Volcanic mountain and hillside vineyards are defined by sparse alluvial and ferrous soils, calcareous silts and other mineral components that fan out as they descend to the valley floor.

So, what are the qualities of the wines from the grapes that grow up in these neighborhoods? Well, in the best there is an undeniable earthiness and minerality and a dusky, textural quality that collaborate beautifully with dark fruit notes. Not just the blackberry and dark currant of a

I frequently recommend consulting your personal wine guru for the best available examples of a particular wine style and considering the cost of buy-in for Napa’s best, it is especially important in this case. Older-school producers many times offer more consistency and better relative value. Look to the early east-side citizens such as the aforementioned Chappellet or Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars — the 1973 version of which defeated the best of Bordeaux at “The Tasting Heard ‘Round the World.’ ” In my next column, we go back to Europe for more volcanic gems (available in the next edition and at TheTahoeWeekly.com.) 

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TheTahoeWeekly.com Discover Lou’s picks for volcanic Italian wines 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) 5443435 or wineguru123@gmail.com. Visit TheTahoeWeekly.com for more wine columns. Click on Wine Column under the Local Flavor tab.

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hen you come right down to it, jambalaya is a dish that is good any time of year. Let’s face it, if you were to go to New Orleans next week, you’d probably end up having a big bowl of jambalaya at least once. If you are going to a potluck and you’re looking for something to bring that will spice up the menu, this is just the dish that will satisfy a lot of happy diners.

Jambalaya is a casserole that contains a little of everything. It has chicken and sausage — usually of the hot variety such as chorizo or linguiça — shrimp, rice, vegetables and even fruit in the form of tomatoes.

Because this casserole comes from the South, it is known

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Because this casserole comes from the South, it is known for its heat and I’m talking a lot more heat than just the sausage will give it. There also is cayenne pepper and some jalapeño peppers. Of course, add the heat according to your own preferences and, as always, don’t add all at once or you just might need a gallon of milk to put out the fire in your mouth.

Oh, and don’t let the long list of ingredients and procedures scare you; this is not hard to make and it is delicious. Try it yourself the next time you are going to host a dinner, or going to a potluck or cookout and enjoy.  Smitty 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 tmmsmitty@gmail.com or (530) 412-3598. To read archived copies of Smitty’s column, visit chefsmitty.com or TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on Chef’s Recipe under the Local Flavor tab.

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JAMBALAYA

From the kitchen of: Chef David “Smitty” Smith

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26

4 chicken thighs, skin on 8 oz. Andouille sausage, split lengthwise & cut into ¼-inch pieces 1 lb. shrimp, peeled & deveined 1½ C long-grain white rice 1 red onion, diced 1 celery stick, cut into ¼-inch pieces 1 red bell pepper, seeded & cut into 1-inch pieces 1-2 jalapeños, sliced & seeded for less heat, if wanted 4-5 cloves garlic, fine diced 1 can tomatoes, diced with ¼ C juice reserved 1 C clam juice 1 t poultry seasoning 1½ C chicken stock or broth ½ t thyme 2 T parsley, chopped 2-3 bay leaves ½ t cumin ¼ t cayenne pepper or to taste Salt & pepper to taste

Peel the skin back on the chicken thighs and season the chicken with salt, pepper and poultry seasoning. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven on medium high and brown the chicken skin side down. Flip the chicken to brown the other side; remove from the pan and set aside leaving the grease.

Turn the heat down to medium and brown the sausage. Remove the sausage from the pan to a paper towel still leaving the grease in the pan.

Reduce the heat to low and add the vegetables. Cook until they start to sweat, maybe 1 minute or so. Add the rice, cayenne, cumin and thyme. Sauté this mixture, stirring constantly for 1 minute or so until the rice starts to turn translucent.

Add tomatoes, tomato juice, clam juice, chicken broth, bay leaves and sausage to the rice mixture stirring everything in. Remove the chicken skin and put the thighs skin side down onto the rice. Bring all to a boil; then cover and simmer. I put it into a 300-degree oven once it simmers, but keep it on the stove if you’d rather.

After 10 minutes, give it a stir, keeping the chicken on top. Cover and cook until the chicken is done. The juice should be clear and not red when you poke the thigh to the bone with a fork or paring knife. This will probably take another 10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Add the shrimp, cover and let it simmer 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the can be fluffed up and the shrimp are cooked through. The shrimp should turn from translucent to opaque when done.

While the shrimp are cooking in the rice, pull the chicken meat off the bones and shred it.

Once the shrimp and rice are done, remove the bay leaves, stir in the chicken and shrimp, add the chopped parsley and season to taste. Serve and enjoy.

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