September 26 to October 2, 2019

SEP TEMBER 26-OCTOBER 2, 2019

GLEN ALPINE SPRINGS

VICTORIA BAILEY CLASSIC COUNTRY FROM SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA // PANORAMIC JAW-DROPPING VIEWS VISTAS FROM HAWK’S PEAK // AT HISTORIC RESORT WILD-EYED WONDER AT SKUNK HARBOR // FIRST TUESDAYS FORAGING FOR FOR PLANET EARTH

SIERRA GOOSEBERRIES

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

$93 /DAY

Now includes 2 Friends & Family Discounted tickets if you purchase by October 24.

SQUAWALPINE.COM/TS4

September 26-October 2, 2019

Volume 38 | Issue 29

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TM

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

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

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Entertainment Inquiries entertainment@tahoethisweek.com Cover Photography production@tahoethisweek.com

MAKING IT HAPPEN Publisher & Editor In Chief Katherine E. Hill publisher@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 102 Account Executive Erik Schultz erik@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 110 Art Director Alyssa Ganong production@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 106 Graphic Designer Justeen Ferguson graphics@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 101

IN THIS ISSUE SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 2, 2019

Entertainment Editor Sean McAlindin entertainment@tahoethisweek.com Food Editor Priya Hutner priya@tahoethisweek.com

FEATURES

Family Editor Michelle Allen michelle@tahoethisweek.com

Hawk’s Peak

8

Sierra Stories

13

Copy Editor Katrina Veit Contributing Writers John Dee, Barbara Keck, Bruce Ajari, Mark McLaughlin, David “Smitty” Smith, Priya Hutner, Katrina Veit, Kayla Anderson, Lou Phillips, Sean McAlindin, Tim Hauserman, Alex Green, Lisa Michelle, Cam Schilling, Alex Silgalis

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

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

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

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

–John Muir

ON THE COVER

Glen Alpine Springs

THE WONDERS OF FALL IN TAHOE

6

OUT & ABOUT Lake Tahoe Facts

4

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Sightseeing

5

One of the many spectacles of fall in the Tahoe Sierra – along of course with the heart-stopping mountainsides awash in color explosions – is the annual spawning of the kokanee salmon in Taylor Creek in South Lake Tahoe (as featured on our cover).

Events

It’s worth visiting Taylor Creek to explore the spawning grounds. Be sure to visit the Rainbow Trail, which connects to the unique Stream Profile Chamber. It features an aquarium-like viewing chamber so visitors can watch the fish underwater in the creek. And, be sure to return for the annual Fall Fish Festival on Oct. 5 and 6 at Taylor Creek.

Afterwards, explore the nearby Glen Alpine Springs.

The historic resort is easily accessible from a 2-mile roundtrip hike from the far end of Fallen Leaf Lake, a great spot for fall color viewing. Alex Silgalis made a recent visit for his feature on “Glen Alpine Springs: Jaw-dropping views at historic resort.”

We also feature other great trails to explore from Hawk’s Peak in Tahoe Donner to the family-friendly Skunk Harbor trail on the East Shore in this edition.

Don’t forget to keep your eyes open for gooseberries to forage. Just be careful of those sharp spikes, as Food Editor Priya Hutner discovered for her feature in this issue “Foraging for Sierra Gooseberries.”

As always, there’s no lack of great events to enjoy this weekend from the Spartan Race World Championship, to two Oktoberfest celebrations, the Sierra Art + Ag Trail and much more. 

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Golf Column

11

FUN & GAMES Horoscope & Puzzles

10

FAMILY FUN Skunk Harbor

12

For the Kids

12

ARTS & CULTURE First Tuesdays for Planet Earth

14

The Arts

14

MUSIC SCENE Victoria Bailey

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Entertainment Calendar & Live Music

16

LOCAL FLAVOR Sierra Gooseberries

20

Wine Column

21

Tasty Tidbits

22

Chef’s Recipe

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Kokanee salmon swirl in Taylor Creek in South Lake Tahoe as they go through the spawning process each fall in Tahoe.

Photography by Sky Emerson | SummitSide.com, @SummitSidePhotoVideo

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

Facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly & Instagram

@TheTahoeWeekly 3

TheTahoeWeekly.com GRAY ’S CROSSING COYOTE MOON

TAHOE DONNER

Reno & Sparks

TRUCKEE AIRPORT

Donner Lake Donner Summit

OLD GREENWOOD

Truckee

BOCA RESERVOIR STAMPEDE RESERVOIR

GRAEAGLE MEADOWS

h Ta

N

GRIZZLY RANCH WHITEHAWK RANCH

TAHOE CITY

Tahoe City

Alpine Meadows

Dollar Hill

TAHOE CITY MARINA

Sunnyside

BOAT RAMPS

SUNNYSIDE

il

Ta h o e R i m

GOLF COURSES

LAKE FOREST

DEEPEST POINT

COON ST. BOAT LAUNCH

SIERRA BOAT CO.

HOMEWOOD

Marlette Lake

SAND HARBOR

NORTH TAHOE

NV

TAHOE VISTA REC AREA

Spooner Lake

Carson City

o Ta h

OBEXER’S

e Ri m Tr a i l

Tahoma Meeks Bay MEEKS BAY

Cave Rock

Age of Lake Tahoe: 2 million years

Emerald Bay

South Lake Tahoe

Stateline

Fannette Island SKI RUN

Average Surface Water Temperature: 51.9˚F Average Surface Temperature in July: 64.9˚F Highest Peak: Freel Peak at 10,881 feet

LAKESIDE BIJOU

R i m Tr ail

Fallen Leaf Lake

Meyers

LAKE TAHOE AIRPORT

FREEL PEAK

TAHOE PARADISE

Permanent Population: 66,000

LAKE TAHOE

Number of Visitors: 3 million annually 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

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.

CAMP RICHARDSON Ta h oe

Average Snowfall: 409 inches

TAHOE KEYS

Cascade Lake

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.

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

EDGEWOOD TAHOE

CAVE ROCK

Zephyr Cove

Average Water Temperature: 42.1˚F

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.

Size: 22 miles long, 12 miles wide

CA

Watershed Area: 312 square miles

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.

Natural rim: 6,223’

Glenbrook

Homewood CASINOS

Maximum depth: 1,645 feet

Volume: 39 trillion gallons

Lake

Tahoe

Eagle Rock

INCLINE VILLAGE CHAMPIONSHIP

Crystal Bay

Kings Beach

Carnelian Bay

RESORT AT SQUAW CREEK

Average depth: 1,000 feet

Incline Village

OLD BROCKWAY

Olympic Valley

a Tr

INCLINE VILLAGE MOUNTAIN

Tahoe Vista

FEATHER RIVER PARK

MARINAS

oe

NORTHSTAR

Truckee River

WEST EAST SOUTH

NAKOMA

ra Rim T

il

SCHAFFER’S MILL

PLUMAS PINES

RENO-TAHOE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

PROSSER RESERVOIR

PONDEROSA

DONNER LAKE

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.

Markleeville

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com Learn about the natural history of the Tahoe Sierra. Click on Nature & Environment under the Out & About menu.

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 70.9 in 2018. 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).

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September 26-October 2, 2019

South Lake Tahoe

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

Fannette Island

Emerald Bay

(530) 541-3030 | parks.ca.gov | Closed Feb. 1-June 15 Loocated in Emerald Bay. Boat access only.

(Closed Feb. 1-June 15.) TART/South Tahoe

Heavenly

South Lake Tahoe

(775) 586-7000 | skiheavenly.com Enjoy a 2.4-mile ride on the gondola to the top with panoramic views. Ticket required. South Tahoe

Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

West Shore

Parking fee | parks.ca.gov (530) 525-7232 Park | (530) 583-9911 Tours In Sugar Pine Point State Park (summer tours), see boathouses, historic boats and more. TART

High Camp

Olympic Valley

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

Kings Beach

North Shore

northtahoebusiness.org Dining and shopping with the North Shore’s largest sandy beach in the heart of town. TART

North Lake Tahoe Demonstration Garden

Incline Village

Tahoe City

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

Tahoe Art League Gallery

Summer | (530) 583-3279 | terc.ucdavis.edu History of the field station, UC Davis research projects, interactive exhibits, demo garden. TART

TheTahoeWeekly.com Find more places to explore.

Click on the Explore Tahoe menu.

Tallac Historic Site

South Lake Tahoe

(530) 541-5227 | tahoeheritage.org Once known as the “Grandest Resort in the World.” South Tahoe

Taylor Creek Visitor Center

South Lake Tahoe

(530) 543-2674 | fs.usda.gov Features Stream Profile Chamber to view slice of Taylor Creek, nature trails & more. South Tahoe

Thunderbird Lodge

South Lake Tahoe

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

FREE BOWLING

each person who bowls 2 games at regular price gets a 3rd game free with this coupon

East Shore

May-October | thunderbirdtahoe.org The former Whittell estate. Home to “Thunderbird” boat. Ages 6+ only. Tours by reservation.

Truckee

STAMPEDE 215,922

CAPACITY: C 226,500

Donner Memorial Visitor Center

Measured in Acre Feet (AF)

Gatekeeper’s Museum

Tahoe City

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

Truckee

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

Truckee

CAPACITY: 29,840 PROSSER 19,167 (530) 582-7892 | parks.ca.gov Featuring8,304 exhibits, artifacts on the Donner CAPACITY: 9,500 C 50 DONNER Party (1846-47) and the Pioneer Monument. TART INDEPENDENCE 15,879 CCAPACITY: 18,300 A 20,400 MARTIS 860 CAPACITY: donnersummithistoricalsociety.org Visit the museum and take the 20-mile interpretive driving tour along Old 40.ATTART | FLOW FARAD 618 Truckee River

Olympic Museum

Olympic Valley

(800) 403-0206 | squawalpine.com Celebrate the 1960 VIII Winter Olympic Games at Squaw Valley. At High Camp featuring historic memorabilia and photographs. TART

Measured in Cubic Feet Per Second (CFS)

Truckee

TROA.NET

Tahoe Maritime Museum

Tahoe City

(530) 583-9283 | tahoemaritimemuseum.org Features self-guided tours, exhibits and handson activities for kids on maritime history. TART

Tahoe Science Center

KidZone Children’s Museum

6227.50

Incline Village

(530) 587-5437 | kidzonemuseum.org Interactive exhibits, science & art classes.

Up to age 7. BabyZone & the Jungle Gym. TART

(775) 881-7566 | tahoesciencecenter.org University of Calif., Davis, science education center features a virtual research boat, biology lab, 3D movies and docent-led tours. Ages 8+. TART

Lake Tahoe Museum

Truckee Railroad Museum

South Lake Tahoe

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

Truckee

truckeedonnerrailroadsociety.com Learn about the historic railroad. Located in a caboose next to the Truckee Depot. TART

Truckee

truckeehistory.org | truckee.com Settled in 1863, a stagecoach stop for the Central Pacific RR. Walking tours at the Depot. TART Emerald Bay

Parking fee | (530) 541-3030 | (530) 525-9529 ADA parks.ca.gov or vikingsholm.com Tour the grounds of Vikingsholm Castle (summer), see Eagle Falls and Fannette Island (the Lake’s only island). TART/South Tahoe

Watson Cabin

Tahoe City

(530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org The oldest building in Tahoe City (1909), on the National Register of Historic Places. TART

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

Bowl Incline North Shore’s Complete Family Recreation Center VOTED BEST POOL ROOM ON THE NORTH SHORE! Automatic Scoring “Bumper Bowling,” Video Arcade, Billiards, Video Poker, Cocktails, ATM, Full Swing Golf Simulator

Boots McFarland by Geolyn Carvin | BootsMcFarland.com RENTALS | TOURS | LESSONS | SALES | DELIVERY

SALE PRICING ON NEW AND USED WATERCRAFT

$5 OFF Rentals & Tours

Must mention ad at booking & present upon arrival.

920 Southwood Blvd., Incline Village (775) 831-1900 email: bowlink@aol.com

bowlincline.com

IN 2018:

Old Jail Museum

Donner Summit Historical Society Soda Springs

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

Vikingsholm Castle

Summer | Free (775) 586-1610, ext. 25 | demogarden.org Learn about native/adaptive plants, water conservation, soil stabilization, defensible space. TART

North Tahoe Arts Center

North Shore

MUSEUMS

C PACITY CITY:: 40 0,870 ,8 BOCA 15,132 CAPA

6228.09 |

225

Explore Tahoe

Tahoe City Field Station

ELEVATION :

RESERVOIR CAPACITY

200,000 AF

A volcanic plug on the West Shore. TART

Readings taken on Friday, September 20, 2019

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West Shore

visittahoecity.com Shopping, dining, historical sites: Tahoe City Dam, Fanny Bridge, and Watson Cabin (1909) for a glimpse at pioneer life. Free parking. TART

LAKE LEVEL Lake Tahoe Natural rim 6,223’

100,000 AF

Eagle Rock

North Shore

75

Drive through one of the area’s natural wonders at Cave Rock, the neck of an old volcano.

Tahoe City

50

East Shore

25

Cave Rock

This is the perfect time of year to enjoy backpacking to the lakes of Desolation Wilderness. | Priya Hutner

150,000 AF

ATTRACTIONS

175

SIGHTSEEING

Smoke Free Every Day!

Coupon good for the entire party.

Limit 1 free game per person per visit.

Not valid with other offers.

Not valid for league or tournament play.

TAHOE CITY

Shop at 521 North Lake Blvd.

Rentals on the water at Commons Beach SAND HARBOR STATE PARK

Rentals next to the boat ramp

Reservations 530.581.4336

|

TahoeCityKayak.com & SandHarborRentals.com 5

OUT & ABOUT

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Out

&ABOUT

OUTDOORS & RECREATION, EVENTS & MORE

Glen Alpine Springs J A W - D R O P P I N G V I E W S AT H I S T O R I C R E S O R T STORY BY ALEX SILGALIS | PHOTOS COURTESY LOCAL FRESHIES

Tailgate Talks return in

October

W

Brennan Lagasse | Courtesy Alpenglow Sports

hen it comes to hiking in and around Lake Tahoe, the focus is usually scenery and landscapes. As you walk out the door for the day, that’s pretty much guaranteed. But what if you could combine the beauty with something more, like a glimpse into a bygone era? Now you’ve got something that’s special, a bit unique and different. This is exactly what Glen Alpine Springs provides guests: jaw-dropping views and an opportunity to see what a vacation destination was like back in the late 1800s.

Alpenglow Sports will launch the Fall 2019 Tailgate Talks on Oct. 3 with Tahoe local Alenka Vrecek.

After walking through the historic resort, take a moment and look

TOP TO BOTTOM: Lily Lake and a cabin closed for the winter in the distance; Great example of one of the buildings made from native materials and local stone; Adventures awaits at Glen Alpine Springs.

at your surroundings.

To one side, you have the formidable Mount Tallac and on the other Angora Peak.

The journey begins before the hike Zooming out of South Lake Tahoe, you’ll quickly transition from a smooth, two-lane State Route 89 to one-car’swidth Fallen Leaf Road. As you pass the Fallen Leaf Fire Station, you’ll begin a small but steep climb. This is where the asphalt becomes more sporadic and a bit sporty. Although you could take a sedan, it would be a better idea to embark on this journey in a high-clearance vehicle.

You’ll thank yourself later. As the road hugs Glen Alpine Creek, you’ll make a quick right and drive over a bridge — the end of the line.

THE TRAIL 2 miles roundtrip | Easy Dogs must be on leash

rough ride for some peace and quiet. This section is also a great spot to take in the fall colors since the aspen overhanging the trail create a spectacular sight.

Modjeska Falls As you continue your climb upwards about half a mile, you’ll come on a bunch of modern cabins. This is part of Stanford Sierra Camp. It’s around here you’ll also come to Modjeska Falls, sometimes called Upper Glen Alpine Falls. While not as big as the lower Glen Alpine Falls, they’re still impressive especially since you can take a short detour and cool off under the base of the falls.

These cascades are named after the Polish actress who came to Glen Alpine Springs in 1885. Her performance was so amazing that the nearby falls were later named after her. How great is that if you could get something named after you because you impressed a crowd that much.

Fall colors at Lily Lake

Glen Alpine Springs

From here you can park and take a short hike to the photogenic Lily Lake. This body of water looks as though the mountains are cupping it. To visit Glen Alpine Springs, head northwest onto the main Glen Alpine Trail. Under a canopy of pines and aspen, the wide path of granite stones, boulders and rocks is more rough road than trail. That’s because it was. As you step over these smooth boulders, imagine wagons bouncing on this route to get to their vacation destination. Talk about a

Yet another half mile up the trail, you’ll finally find the world-famous Glen Alpine Springs, founded back in 1884 by Nathan Gilmore. Even though the majority of its buildings were burnt down in 1921, they were replaced by designs from the famed architect Bernard Maybeck, who’s responsible for San Francisco’s Palace of Fine Arts. Be sure to take a close look at these structures, especially the Bubblestone cabin. While all of the remaining buildings are particularly noteworthy because of their

6

extensive use of native materials and local stone, Bubblestone is considered a one-ofa kind, experimental, concrete building.

After walking through the historic resort, take a moment and look at your surroundings. To one side, you have the formidable Mount Tallac and on the other Angora Peak.

But of course, the best part of the scenery is one of the most famous back-country skiing lines in the Basin. You’ll understand why John Muir once said of this area, “From no other valley, as far as I know, may excursions be made in a single day to so many peaks, wild gardens, glacier lakes, glacier meadows and alpine groves, cascades, etc.”

Vrecek will talk about a life-changing solo bike ride she took from the Sierra to Mexico.

This feat came on the tail end of a breast cancer diagnosis for Vrecek and a Parkinson’s diagnosis for her husband. Despite the odds, Vrecek decided not only to persevere but to thrive and push herself to do even more.

All the events will take place in the shop in Tahoe City with the door opening at 6:30 p.m.: the show will begin at 7 p.m. Every show is free. Beverages will be available for purchase with all proceeds going to a nonprofit beneficiary. | alpenglowsports.com

SCHEDULE Oct. 19 | John Long, climber and writer Oct. 24 | Brennan Lagasse, conservationist Oct. 28 | Corey Rich, climber and photographer Nov. 21 | Environmental Film Night with Patagonia Dec. 14 | Scott Rokis, photographer

Bike stations, While you can visit any time of year when there isn’t snow on the ground, the best time to visit is in the summer or fall.

From Memorial Day through the fall season, guided tours are offered at 1 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. There is also an interpretive center open in the summer.

Directions Take Fallen Leaf Road off Highway 89 in South Lake Tahoe for about 5 miles.

Continue left when you see the marina and signs for the falls. Continue straight past the firehouse and you’ll arrive at the parking lot for Desolation Wilderness and the upper falls. | glenalpinesprings.org 

lockers coming Several projects were recently completed at North Tahoe Regional Park in Tahoe Vista, including restoration of the upper parking lot and development and construction of a multi-use regional trailhead, which will be part of the North Tahoe Trail being developed to link to Carnelian Bay Avenue.

Look for bike repair stations, a bike locker, racks and a bike wash station to be installed this fall, as well. Read more about the new trial at TheTahoeWeekly.com; click on Summer: Beaches & Parks under Out & About.

September 26-October 2, 2019

SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 3, 2019

Diamond Peak will be adding more features to the Village Terrain Park this season and introducing its new snowguns for the 201920 season, scheduled to open on Dec. 12.

Other improvements include a new PistenBully, expanded passholder perks, guided snowshoe hikes and the return of the Diamond Cut video competition. Read about all of the season improvements at TheTahoeWeekly.com; click on Out & About: Winter. | diamondpeak.com

Homewood

expands snowmaking

With the winter 2019-20 season on the horizon, Homewood Mountain Resort has invested in its snowmaking and grooming capabilities, new food offerings at its South Base, and has joined more than 10 ski resort partners to offer free ski days to Homewood season passholders.

The resort will also offer back-country and snowcat guide training for the first time.

Homewood is scheduled to open in December. Read about all of the season improvements at TheTahoeWeekly.com; click on Out & About: Winter. | skihomewood.com

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

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

Click on Event Calendar. FREE!

Sugar Bowl

to unveil covered beginner

lift, mini pipe

Sugar Bowl Resort will unveil a new covered surface lift for beginners, lift safety improvements, the remodel of rooms in the Sugar Bowl Hotel, renovation of the MidMountain Lodge, continued snowmaking improvements, a 13-foot mini-pipe and top-to-bottom terrain park with new features, and new parking shuttles for the 2019-20 season.

The resort is targeting a Nov. 29 opening.

Read about all of the season improvements at TheTahoeWeekly.com; click on Out & About: Winter. | sugarbowl.com

EVENTS

EVENTS CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 3, 2019

Kingsbury North Workday Kingsbury North Trailhead Stateline | Sept. 26, 28

Join Tahoe Rim Trail Association for a fun day out on the trail near Kingsbury North off of Kingsbury Grade. We’ll meet at the Kingsbury North trailhead and hike to the work site. We’ll be addressing erosion issues on the trail. Come out and help maintain the trails you love. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free | tahoerimtrail.org

Courtesy Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows

Diamond Peak expands terrain park

OUT & ABOUT

Conversation Cafe Incline Rec Center Incline Village | Sept. 26, Oct. 3

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

And optional continental breakfast is available for a nominal fee. 10-11 a.m. $5 | yourtahoeplace.com

Cheer for the Spartans

Tahoe Forest Center for Health Truckee | Sept. 26, Oct. 3

For the fifth year in a row, Spartan Race World Championship will take place in at Squaw Valley Ski Resort in Olympic Valley. The world’s best athletes will congregate on the course with a shared goal: to be the Spartan Race World Champion. The mostanticipated obstacle-racing weekend of the year will feature three Spartan Race distances to choose from over two days of racing: 13-mile Spartan Beast Race with 30 obstacles, 30-mile Spartan Ultra Race with 60 obstacles and Spartan Tahoe Trail 10K with no obstacles. There is also a Spartan Kids Race with three distances.

Help with computers

Onlookers can cheer on friends and family as these incredible athletes compete for the title. A special Aerial Tram access ticket will be available Sept. 28 and 29 for access to the upper-mountain course for $39 for adults and $29 for ages 5 to 17. | squawalpine.com

Chronic Pain Self-Management Program

Learn skills to better able manage your symptoms of chronic pain and improve your quality of life. 12:30-3 p.m. Free | (530) 587-3769, tfhd.com

Kings Beach Library Kings Beach | Sept. 26, Oct. 3

Ongoing computer help. First Thursdays of the month are “Exploring our Digital Resources,” second Thursdays are “Computer Q&A with Carl LeBlanc,” third Thursdays are “Everything iPhone” and fourth Thursdays are differing themes about computers and technology. Call or stop by for the class schedule. 3-4 p.m. Free | (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov

Transform Stress Tahoe Forest Health System Truckee | Sept. 26

In this free series, explore transformative topics designed to inspire, educate and empower. Each session consists of education, discussion and goal setting to help you apply what you have learned to your daily life. 2nd and 4th Thursdays, every month. 5:15-6:30 p.m. | facebook.com

Building Your Family Tree Incline Village Library Incline Village | Sept. 26, 27

In this series of classes, learn to build your family tree to see how you’re connected to your matches. 5:30 p.m. Free | (775) 8324130, libraryaware.com

Community Flu Clinics Senior Center South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 26

El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency will conduct low-cost community flu vaccination clinics. Seasonal influenza vaccine will be available in flu shot form at the clinics; a limited supply of FluMist will be available for children. The cost is $10 per vaccine. $10 | (530) 621-6188, edcgov.us

Washoe Ways Tallac Historic Site South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 27

This fascinating interactive program is presented by US Forest Service, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, shows what summer life was like for Washoe families. Before the arrival of Euro-Americans at Lake Tahoe, the Washoe spent their summers on the shores of Lake Tahoe. 1-2 p.m. Free | tahoeheritage.org

Truckee Chamber Awards Dinner & Auction Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe Truckee | Sept. 27

Truckee Chamber’s 66th annual Awards Dinner celebrates Truckee Then and Now. There will be no-host cocktails, silent and Live auction and raffle, dinner and awards presentation. Individuals, businesses, nonprofits and organizations will be recognized. Vote at truckeeawards.com. 4-9 p.m. $95-$105 | truckeeawards.com

Walking Tour Tallac Historic Site South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 27

This docent-guided walk allows visitors into the lives of the elite San Francisco families that made these homes their summer retreat.

Discover how the families used the estates and connected with Lake Tahoe almost 100 years ago. This 90-minute walk consists of some uneven terrain and paved trails. 2-3:30 p.m. | tahoeheritage.org

Village Vibrations Heavenly Village South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 27, 28

Join us for a motorcycle show and shine at the beautiful Heavenly Village. Open to all makes and models. Great food and drink specials throughout the village. 3-7 p.m. Free | facebook.com

Sierra SeptOberfest MontBleu Resort Casino South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 27

The 14th annual Kiwanis SeptOberfest fundraiser includes a beer garden, wine tasting and a German buffet dinner. Guests will be greeted by German Maidens and an Oompah band. Includes a DJ for dancing, stein-holding contest, silent auction, live auction and envelope prizes. Proceeds benefit local kids and adults living with disabilities. 6-10 p.m. $50-$55 | tahoesierrakiwanis.org

Tahoe Fall Fest The Chateau Incline Village | Sept. 27

Tahoe Connection for Families ninth annual Tahoe Fall Fest “The Roaring 20s” offers live entertainment, dinner, drinks, music and an auction. 6 p.m. $99-$150 | tcfkids.org

Virtual Reality Studio Incline Village Library Incline Village | Sept. 27

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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

7

FEATURE

TheTahoeWeekly.com

PA N O R A M I C V I S TA S F R O M

HAWK’S PEAK Panoramic view from Hawk’s Peak.

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

M

ule ears, Indian paintbrush and lupine were in full bloom. The The birds chirped overhead. It was a beautiful morning on the trail to Hawk’s Peak in Tahoe Donner, a lovely 4-mile hike or mountainbike ride with amazing 360-degree views from the top.

A good portion of the trail is an uphill climb (you gain 718 feet in elevation) mostly on single track and extremely exposed. It’s best to go early or later in the day unless you don’t mind the sun beating down on you.

As we continued along the trail there were hundreds of bushes with whiteblooming fragrant flowers. I shot a text to Will Richardson from Tahoe Institute for Natural Science and sent him a photo to help identify the fragrant plant. Richardson identified the genus as ceanothus velutinus or California lilacs, also called snowbrush. It grows wild up here. I felt like I was swimming in a sea of beautiful, white, sweet-smelling flowers. It lent such beauty to the hike. Off in the distance the snow still clung to the uppermost part of Sunrise Bowl.

THE TRAIL Open to hiking, mountain biking & horses

Hawk’s Peak 4 miles roundtrip | Moderate

The trailhead to get to Hawk’s Peak is located off Ski Slope Way just beyond Snow Peak Road on the right side of the street and directly across from the backside of Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort.

There’s parking by the gate and a trail map.

My friend Karen Barchas and I started around 9:15 in the morning. It was still cool with a slight breeze in the air. From the gate we made a left on the trail, which initially starts on the Crazy Horse trail; there’s a sign and it’s clearly marked. The hike is relatively flat and easy initially. We walked up the fire road a short way toward the Hawk’s Peak trail.

8

Fields of snowbrush aka ceanothus velutinus or California lilacs.

At about .39 of a mile on the right side there’s a sign for Hawk’s Peak. Barchas and I took the single track up. It’s still a bit wooded here providing some welcomed shade. The trail opens up and crosses another fire road also part of the Crazy Horse

Trail. There’s a signpost marked 17B that indicates the trail.

The dusty trail snaked and curved and wound its way upward. We navigated the easy switchbacks and continued ascending. From here on in its full sun for the rest of the way. The power lines along the Andromeda Trail can be seen from this vantage point. Looking west you can see sweeping views of Tahoe Donner and beyond.

At about 1.55 miles we connected with another fire road: the Andromeda Trail.

We turned left at this junction and walked uphill for a short bit. The fire road evens out and reconnects off to the right with the Hawk’s Peak single track. There’s a

Author on top of Hawk’s Peak.

signpost labeled 36K and an arrow pointing the way. Sunrise Bowl and Castle Peak come into view here. There was still plenty of snow resting on the mountain peaks off in the distance when we visited.

As we continued to climb, a number of rock formations came into view: Hawk’s Peak. At the base of the formation, the trail splits. If you take the left trail it wraps around Hawk’s Peak and marries into a network of hiking and single-track trails all part of the Tahoe Donner trail system.

We veered off to the right to climb to Hawk’s Peak and stand on the rock formations. The view is stupendous. | tahoedonner.com

September 26-October 2, 2019

EVENTS

OUT & ABOUT

Steve Schmier’s Lake Tahoe

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

“Return to Send’er” Village at Squaw Olympic Valley | Sept. 27

Courtesy Matchstick Productions

This new ski movie from Matchstick Productions, “Return to Send’er,” shows how Mark Abma, Karl Fostvedt, Sam Kuch and Logan Pehota bring a different style and outlook to the table while having one thing in common: they love to send’er. The body of the movie showcases some of the most progressive big- and small-mountain skiing filmed to date. Shows 7:30 p.m. | matchstickpro.com

Spartan Race World Championship 1960 Squaw Valley Rd Olympic Valley | Sept. 28, 29

The most-anticipated obstacle-racing weekend of the year will feature three Spartan Race distances to choose from over two days of racing: 13-mile Spartan Beast Race with 30 obstacles, 30-mile Spartan Ultra Race with 60 obstacles and Spartan Tahoe Trail 10K with no obstacles. There is also a Spartan Kids Race.

6 a.m.-2 p.m. | squawalpine.com

Elizabethtown Meadows Docent-Led Hike State Route 267 | Truckee | Sept. 28

Truckee Donner Land Trust offers a hike through Elizabethtown Meadows. The Middle Fork of Martis Creek, a year-round stream, runs for nearly 1 mile through the property. It is an easy 7-mile hike with minimal elevation changes through meadows and forests.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free | takecaretahoe.org

“Return to Send’er” showing This new ski movie from Matchstick Productions, “Return to Send’er,” shows how Mark Abma, Karl Fostvedt, Sam Kuch and Logan Pehota bring a different style and outlook to the table while having one thing in common: they love to send’er. The body of the movie showcases some of the most progressive big- and small-mountain skiing filmed to date and sets the stage for the end of the season when all four skiers unite for the mother of all heliskiing trips.

Enjoy two showings at Olympic Village Lodge on Sept. 27 at 7 and 9:30 p.m. for $15 each. Come early for a chance to win great door prizes. | matchstickpro.com

Tahoe City at the Boatworks Mall SteveSchmiersJewelry.com • 530.583.5709

Capture the Colors of Fall Ward Creek Trailhead Tahoe City | Sept. 28

Explore the fall beauty of Lake Tahoe through your camera lens on this guided hike.

Join photo expert Steve Hale to learn how to truly capture the striking reds, yellows and oranges of deciduous trees. While traveling to Page Meadows, Hale will guide participants in the basics of photography. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $5 | tahoerimtrail.org

Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club Granlibakken Tahoe City | Oct. 1

The NLTRA hosts this monthly event on the first Tuesday of every month. All community members are invited to attend for the latest in community news and projects.

7-8:30 a.m. $15 | gotahoenorth.com

55+ Hiking Series Tahoe City Oktoberfest Commons Beach Tahoe City | Sept. 28

Tahoe City’s annual Oktoberfest returns to town at Commons Beach. The event features craft beers from some of the region’s best microbreweries, live music and great food, traditional Bavarian-themed games and craft vendor village. 12-5 p.m. Free | visittahoecity.org

Ian Casey Golf Classic and Dinner Northstar Golf Course Truckee | Sept. 28

The second annual golf event at Northstar Golf Course is a scramble format with teams of four. Thousands of dollars in raffle prizes, a silent auction and on-course games and competitions will add to the fun. Golfers will receive a custom embroidered hat and drink ticket. 12-7 p.m. | northstarcalifornia.com

Stanford Rock Work Day West Shore Tahoe City | Sept. 29, Oct. 3

Help work on the Stanford Rock Trail. An easy 15- to 20-minute ride to the work site.

Bring long pants, long sleeves, helmet (bike helmet okay), glasses, gloves, and a water bottle or hydration pack. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | tamba.org

Incline Rec Center Incline Village | Oct. 1

Join Incline Senior Programs every Tuesday for guided hikes around Tahoe. Meet in the recreation lobby and bring lunch, water and sunscreen, wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Camera and walking poles are encouraged, also. 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $10-$13 | yourtahoeplace.com

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

Click on Event Calendar. FREE!

Entrepreneurs Assembly Startup Roundtable Lake Tahoe Yoga Zephyr Cove | Oct. 3

Join Entrepreneurs Assembly for a great professional networking and growth opportunity. The roundtables provide you an integrated, systemic plan and path toward your successful business launch and provide you the best practices for navigating the hurdles in creating a successful business.

5:30-8:30 p.m. | eventbrite.com

AIRPORT SHUTTLE SERVICE

Photography and Atmospheric Science UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center | Incline Village | Oct. 3

In atmospheric science, photographic imagery has evolved from simple groundbased documentation to the global depiction of circulations and radiation using spacebased platforms today. In this presentation, the symbiotic and historical relationship that has existed for 180 years will be discussed within the context of natural phenomena.

5:30-7:30 p.m. $5-$10 | (775) 881-7560, tahoe.ucdavis.edu

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

Tailgate Talks Evening PhotoWalk Sugar Pine Point State Park Tahoma | Oct. 2

See Sugar Pine Point State Park through a new lens. Join renowned photographer Grant Kaye for a twilight stroll around the grounds of the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion and Sugar Pine Point State Park as he teaches you the art of the photographic seeing, learning to compose better photographs.

Only 10 spots available. Any type of camera is welcome. 6-8 p.m. $85 | sierrastateparks. networkforgood.com

Alpenglow Sports Tahoe City | Oct. 3

Alpenglow Sports is excited to introduce its speakers in the Fall 2019 Tailgate Talk Series. The series starts at 7 p.m. and features athletes and artists, conservationists and trendsetters. Talks are free; beverages are available for purchase. Proceeds go to select nonprofits. 7 p.m. Free | facebook.com

NorthLakeTahoeExpress.com 9

FUN & GAMES

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Horoscopes

FIRE

EARTH

AIR

WATER

Puzzles

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

Libra (Sep 22-Oct 22) Hopefully, you were able to take a little time out or at least sleep in a bit more than usual these past few weeks. Now that window is pretty much closed and you might be realizing why it might have been a good idea. Positively, you are eager to enter new territory. In fact, there are indications that you are feeling extra assertive.

Scorpio (Oct 22-Nov 21) The time is right to work behind the sciences.

This can also be understood as inner work which includes clearing resistance blocks and limiting beliefs.

If so and you don’t know how I can help. Otherwise, this represents both a process of breaking through walls and building strong new foundations. There is an expansive theme at play and it does include the prospects of more… returns.

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) Despite a rather busy time tending to practical concerns and considerations, your focus has been steadily turning to matters of the heart. This trend will continue well into October and will progressively deepen in more ways than one. Are you ready to take a plunge into deeper and perhaps hotter water?

Ready or not…

Taurus (Apr 20-May 21) Some cycles are all about making improvements, refinements, and repairs, like this one. This focus will include various stages and the first of these already began about a week ago. Creating beauty in your home and lifestyle, in general, is likely.

Focusing on creative projects and other works of art is also featured.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 21) Sagittarius (Nov 21-Dec 21) If you have wanted to be more social and/or meet new people and make new friends, then this is your golden opportunity. Combined with an expansive urge linked to Jupiter in your sign, where it will remain until December, Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Libra is like a magical portal which, should you choose to walk through it, will open your world to new associations.

The change of signs and seasons should prove to have an uplifting effect on you. There may remain some final touches on deep clean and renovation projects of one kind or another. Yet, you have already entered a more playful cycle and you are all in.

Socializing is one expression of this while the other includes interests in larger cultural events.

Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22) Capricorn (Dec 21-Jan 19) If you have been waiting for your moment to make your move to get more attention or to be seen and heard and to ask for earned rewards, this is it. This window will remain open for the next several weeks so you have plenty of time. This cycle can also be used to enter into deeper, more intimate and meaningful dialogue with loved ones.

Rather deep and powerful changes have been unfolding on relationship fronts. Looking back, you will notice that certain key people have exited the stage and perhaps your own social and professional status has also changed. Now the immediate focus is on home and family and establishing a whole new and improved and beautiful atmosphere.

Leo (Jul 22-Aug 23) Libra time generally indicates a philosophical and cultural time for you. This stands to be especially true this year. It is likely that you are in the mood to be entertained. Gaining new knowledge is one feature of this attraction, but you also want to be moved, impressed and inspired and to have reason to laugh more… and louder…too.

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) Ever since Mercury entered Libra on September 14 and Venus on the 15th you have been in a rather deep cycle. Now the Sun there too is energizing and amplifying this urge. It can prove extra useful for research, tending to unfinished business and paying closer attention to the details, generally. Positively, it could also indicate a deepening of passions in your love life.

Entering the last quarter of the year is bringing with it some fresh perspectives for you. There are indications that you have been focused on establishing new foundations and momentums on practical and/ or professional fronts. Now you are about ready to make these more public. Yet, these may be deemed soft launches with the grand event a couple of weeks away.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22) It is likely that you have been busy taking new leads and initiatives. Now you are ready to receive some returns on your investment. Beyond finances alone, the reward stands to be increased creative confidence and inspiration. The emphasis overall is upon establishing a whole new base of power supported greater depth and diversity.

CryptoQuip

Aquarius (Jan 19-Feb 19)

When you cross a four-leaf clover with poison ivy, I reckon you’ll end up having a rash of good luck.

Hocus Focus differences: 1. Eight ball is black, 2. Boy’s shirt stripe is black, 3. Boy’s cue stick is shorter, 4. Balls #2 and #7 have moved, 5. Window is missing, 6. Boy standing has moved.

10

September 26-October 2, 2019

GRAEAGLE MEADOWS

2020 Fall Special Season Passes On Sale Now

Golf Course

STORY & PHOTOS

BY ALEX GREEN

OUT & ABOUT

Ful

Re

ar

e r vi c e B lS

st a u r a nt

Fun for the whole family!

GolfTahoeCity.com · 251 N. Lake Blvd.,Tahoe City · 530.583.1516

Course Details

Yardage

Slope

Ratings

18 holes | par 72

5,589 to 6,725

123 to 125

69.3 to 71.3

“P

lease don’t hit the deer” was all I could manage to mutter from the tee pad, hovering over my ball contemplatively.

“Should I just wait for them to cross?”

“Doesn’t look like they’re in any kind of hurry.”

“They’re eating the rough there.”

“Just aim left a ways.”

“They’ll move on, just give ‘em a second.”

Imagine a place where herds of deer and golfers coexist peacefully in a serene Sierra meadow alongside the Feather River, surrounded by snowcapped mountains.

Safe to say, I saw more deer in one round of golf that day at Graeagle Meadows Golf Course than at every other course I’ve ever played combined — and no, no deer were harmed during our round. It makes sense, so many of them being out here: deer live to eat the good grass and golf courses are in the business of growing the best stuff there is.

Imagine a place where herds of deer and golfers coexist peacefully in a serene Sierra meadow alongside the Feather River, surrounded by snowcapped mountains.

All right, I think I ran off on a tangent there, the deer clearly made a lasting impression. Anyhow, wide-open fairways (narrowing as play goes on), stunning views around every bend, meticulously maintained multiple-tiered greens and a high-caliber layout worthy of championship status without the crowds is only a fraction of the goodness you’ll find at this gem of a golf club.

It was a good long while until golf came to Sierra Valley; started out with the usual suspects of industry ‘round the Sierra: lots of lumber and gold. Gold was discovered on Eureka Peak in the fall of 1850, bringing heaps of new folks and mining outfits from all across the globe into the valley.

The nearby town of Johnsville was established shortly thereafter, where around 65 miles of tunnels were excavated and over $8 million of gold was processed. Graeagle came to fruition in 1916, supported mainly by the lumber company and box factory, which manufactured boxes in which fruits and vegetables were shipped.

In the late 1950s, gold fever was long gone and both the box and lumber companies had shut down; Graeagle was nearly abandoned. That is until the late Harvey West Jr. purchased the town from the California Fruit Exchange and relocated his family, with the vision of revitalizing the place. West loved the game of golf and in 1968, he contracted golf architect Ellis Van Gorder and began construction on a new course, the first 18-hole design in the area.

Nine holes were completed by 1969 and the full 18 were done in 1970. The course

GOLF COURSE NCGA MEMBER RATES AVAILABLE

CoyoteMoonGolf.com 10685 NORTHWOODS BLVD. | TRUCKEE, CA 96161 | (530) 587-0886

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com Read the Tahoe Sierra Golf Guide & local golf profiles. Click on Summer: Golf.

became an instant staple of the community and has remained so to this day.

The playing field is generally fair and scorable, with moderately large greens and properly manicured grass tee to green. Hole 6 is as fun of a hole as it is easy on the eyes.

Teeing off the hilltop, drastically downhill, 386 holes from the back tees to the cup, right into a backdrop of the towering Eureka Peak. Miss the large fairway bunker and you’re golden grams; land in the sand and you’ve got a project on your hands.

Next time you’re anywhere near the Sierra Valley, be sure to bring along the clubs and checkout this historical wonder of a golf facility. It is one you won’t want to miss. There’s a spacious clubhouse with pro shop, bar and restaurant onsite, as well as a large driving range and putting/ chipping area. | (530) 836-2323, graeaglemeadows.com 

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FAMILY FUN

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Family FUN

Moms Helping

Moms Be Moms

W I L D - E Y E D W O N D E R AT

Skunk Harbor

Mommy & Me is a free weekly support group for mothers and their infants and toddlers at Barton Center for Orthopedics and Wellness in South Lake Tahoe. Mothers are invited to attend to share experiences and discuss the joys and challenges of parenting, get support from other mothers, as well as professional support from a childbirth instructor and guest speakers.

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

Speakers and topics will vary week to week.

Infants & Toddlers (0 to 36 months) meet on Tuesdays. Babies (0 to 12 months) meet on Fridays. | (530) 539-6620, bartonhealth.org

T

he warm summer days are still fresh in our minds even though the temperatures are getting cooler and the leaves are starting to change color. The weather this time of year can be unpredictable and the fall season can often bring warm, summerlike days to the Tahoe Sierra. When this is true, the East Shore of Lake Tahoe is a great place to enjoy them.

There are many incredible places to explore on the East Shore and one of my favorite destinations is Skunk Harbor.

It’s a great spot for hiking, relaxing at the beach and enjoying amazing panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the western crest of the Sierra Nevada.

Over the years, I have hiked to Skunk Harbor many times. Sometimes I have done it by starting at the top and hiking down and sometimes I have started at the beach and hiked up when my husband Luke and I have come by boat. I’ve hiked it several times with my sister Kat Hill and my son Anikin, first as an infant, and again when he was 2 years old carrying him on my back in a pack. But he was already very

FOR THE KIDS SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 3, 2019

Bilingual Sing Along with Ileana

KidZone Museum | Truckee | Sept. 26

10:30-11 a.m. | kidzonemuseum.org

Toddler Story Time

Incline Village Library | Sept. 26, Oct. 3 11:15-11:45 a.m. | (775) 832-4130

Family Fun Friday

KidZone Museum | Truckee | Sept. 27

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

Teen Scene

Kahle Community Center | Stateline | Sept. 27 6:30-9 p.m. $5 | (775) 586-7271

Bilingual Storytime The hike ends on the shores of Lake Tahoe.

The eastern exposure at Skunk Harbor helps extend the duration of sunlight and the warm daytime temperatures. It’s a great spot for hiking, relaxing and enjoying views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada. aware and curious of the world around him — he asked lots of questions. Other times, he’s joined me in hiking up the trail when we’ve arrived by boat, making it a great hike for kids of all ages.

One of my most fond times was when he was 2. He would point at pinecones on the ground, the pine trees looming above, the bushes, birds and just about everything we saw along the way, including Lake Tahoe. Each time his tiny finger landed on an object he wanted to know its name and to see it up close. He was especially intrigued by Lake Tahoe. Every time we stopped to admire views of the lake his eyes grew big with curiosity.

As we got closer to the beach, he was anxious to get out of the pack. He walked over to the water and started talking to it as if he were having a conversation with it. Kat and I were not sure what he was saying but it sure was adorable. We could only imagine what a 2-year-old might say to one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

12

On either side of the beach, there are rock outcroppings that can be carefully navigated for a broader view of the surrounding landscape. There is an old house on the beach, once used in the 1920s by the Newhall family from San Francisco as a party home. This property is now federal land, maintained by the U.S. Forest Service.

Truckee Library | Sept. 28

10:30-11 a.m. Free | (530) 582-7846, madelynhelling.evanced.info

Block Party

South Lake Tahoe Librarye | Sept. 28

10-11 a.m. Free | engagedpatrons.org

Kids Arts Saturdays

North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Sept. 28

1-3 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

Kids Train Ride

Truckee River Regional Park | Sept. 28

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free | truckeedonnerrailroadsociety.com

THE TRAIL Enjoy hiking and swimming. Dogs OK

2.6 miles roundtrip | Moderate Elevation gain | 528 feet

Puppet Art Theater Company

KidZone Museum | Truckee | Sept. 28

11 a.m.-12 p.m. | (530) 587-5437, kidzonemuseum.org

Baby Story Time

Incline Village Library | Oct. 1

DIRECTIONS:

Skunk Harbor trail is 2.6 miles roundtrip and kid friendly. The descent down to the beach is gradual and easy. On the way down, there is a fork in the road.

The left fork goes down to Prey Meadows, a great spot for spring wildflowers and a peaceful picnic. The fork to the right leads to the beach at Skunk Harbor.

The trailhead is on Highway 28 about 5 miles south of Sand Harbor State Park.

Look for a green gate on the lakeside of the highway. There is a small parking area near the gate; do not block the gate. There is also a pullout for parking to the north of the gate on the same side of the road.

Parking fills up fast; visit on weekdays and go early.  Michelle Allen is a nearly 20-year resident of Tahoe and mother to a rambunctious 6-year-old and understands the challenges of keeping kids entertained. She may be reached at michelle@ tahoethisweek.com.

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

Preschool Story Time

Kings Beach Library | Oct. 1

10:30-11 a.m. | (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov

Teen Tuesdays

Incline Village Library | Oct. 1

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

Baby Bookworms

Truckee Library | Truckee | Oct. 2

10:30 a.m. Free | (530) 582-7846, madelynhelling.evanced.info

RUFF, Read Up for Fun Truckee Library | Oct. 2

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

Weird Science Wednesday Incline Village Library | Oct. 2

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

September 26-October 2, 2019

FEATURE

SIERRA STORIES

BY MARK McLAUGHLIN

Ca lifornia Bound | T h e G r i g s b y - I d e P a r t y, P a r t I

A

fter so many books, articles, movies and documentaries about the Donner Party, it seems safe to say that many, if not most, of the people who inhabit or visit the Tahoe Sierra are probably familiar with the gist of the story. A wagon train of California-bound emigrants was trapped east of Truckee’s Pass (now Donner Pass) during the winter of 1846-47, and many in the party died while some resorted to cannibalism to survive.

In the annals of epic Western migrations during the 1840s, the 1846 Donner Party event has remained relevant and a topic of conversation for nearly 175 years. Historians have also frequently focused on the 1844 Stephens-Townsend-Murphy wagon train that met Chief Truckee who showed them the way across the Forty Mile Desert to the Truckee River, the missing link that finally opened the California Trail.

William Ide’s encouraging descriptions about the feasibility of the trail and lure of fertile land and mild climate on the Pacific Coast convinced many that the five-month journey was worth it.

But even for those familiar with the Stephens and Donner groups’ accomplishments, questions about the actors and actions of the pioneers who used that new California Trail in 1845 often draw blank stares. That’s too bad because it was members of that year’s substantial migration that not only re-confirmed and proved the practicality of the Stephens route over Donner Pass, but it was in 1845 that an important alternative trail was blazed north of the Truckee River through Dog Valley that avoided the difficult, boulder-strewn Truckee River Canyon.

About 100 wagons “jumped off ” from Independence, Mo., in the spring of 1845, headed for Oregon Country. Nearly one third of them were from Springfield, Ill., hometown of George and Jacob Donner, as well as James F. Reed, key leaders of the Donner Party. The man in charge of the Springfield wagons in 1845 was 49-yearold William Brown Ide, a well-respected farmer, schoolteacher and preacher at the local Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints’ Meeting House.

William B. Ide’s California adobe home. | Courtesy California Dept. of Parks & Recreation

Ide and his family, along with other residents of Springfield, intended to reach the Oregon Country, but then they met Caleb Greenwood on the trail in present-day Idaho. The beaver trapping era was long over, so now mountain man Greenwood was working as a recruiting agent for Captain John A. Sutter, a self-styled monarch in California’s Sacramento Valley.

A Swiss émigré, Sutter owned an adobe fort and vast tracts of land in the valley and wanted emigrants to come and build the region’s economic and political strength.

After listening to Greenwood’s stretchedtruth stories about the benefits of California, Ide and most of the other Springfield emigrants changed their mind and hired Greenwood and his three mixed race sons to lead them to Sutter’s Fort.

Among the members of that 1845 wagon train was Robert Caden Keyes, James Reed’s 26-year-old brother-in-law. Another was William Levi Todd, nephew of attorney Abraham Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd. Reed, the Donner brothers, and other Springfield residents that were considering a move to the Pacific Coast were looking forward to receiving letters confirming first-hand that the risk was worth it. The expensive journey was long, arduous and fraught with peril for their young families. Northern California was part of Mexico, primitive, sparsely populated with no infrastructure, and 2,000 difficult miles from home.

In October 1845, James Reed received a letter from Keyes that disparaged the land in California and its residents, and announced that Keyes was heading for Oregon, his original destination. Despite the note’s discouraging tone, Reed heard other news that would lure him west, away from

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com

many that the five-month journey was worth it. He also advised about the type and amount of various supplies that emigrants should outfit their wagons with.

Ide spent much of his adult life moving west in small jumps. Born 1796 in Rutland, Mass., by age 23 he was a skilled carpenter and land surveyor. The following year he married Susan G. Haskell and they soon had six children. The Ide’s moved to Kentucky, then Ohio and finally Springfield, Ill., where he bought a farm. The Ide family lived a meagre existence on William’s poor salary teaching school and running the local Mormon Church. By 1845, Ide was pushing 50 years old and dissatisfied with his life. It was time to move again.

He sold the farm that spring and bought two custom-made wagons to go with the one he had. Ide had 13 in his party, including several hired-hands working for their meals and an expense-paid trip west. At Independence, Ide joined up with a company headed

by John Grigsby — their captain was Joe Meek. By the time they reached Fort Hall and met Greenwood, they were known as the Grigsby-Ide Party.

By September they were at the west end of Truckee Lake, eyeing the rugged pass.

The year before the Stephens Party took their wagons apart and hauled them over the mountain in sections, but Ide envisioned a better way. Ide’s 18-year-old daughter described the scene: “At night we camped at the foot of the rocky mountain—the Sierra Nevada; and were told by Caleb Greenwood

that we would have to take our wagons to pieces and haul them up with ropes. But father proposed to build a bridge, or a sort of inclined railroad up the steep ascent, and over the rocks; but few of his companions would listen to any such scheme. He went to work with the men and fixed the road.”

Ultimately the “railroad” concept was abandoned, but instead of dismantling the wagons Ide identified relatively level steps on the granite cliffs upon which the cattle could gain some footing and pull the wagon up from below. Thus, the empty wagons were hauled up the steep rock face step by step. It took them two days, but finally the caravan with all its gear was safely over the pass. Their jubilation was tempered, however, when they met an eastbound pack train that told them Mexican soldiers would probably take them all prisoners as illegal immigrants as soon as they arrived in the Sacramento Valley. Tensions were high due to the increasing flow of unwanted Americans into Alta California and the impending Mexican-American War. Stay tuned for Part II in the next edition and at TheTahoeWeekly.com; click on Explore Tahoe: History.  Tahoe historian Mark McLaughlin is a nationally published author and professional speaker. His award-winning books are available at local stores or at thestormking.com. You may reach him at mark@ thestormking.com. Check out his blog at tahoenuggets.com or read more at TheTahoeWeekly.com.

Click on History under the Explore Tahoe tab.

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

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Read Mark’s story on Cannibalism in the West. Click on Explore Tahoe: History . his impending bankruptcy and to a climate that might soothe his wife Margaret’s debilitating migraine headaches.

Ide sent letters to Springfield’s newspaper, the Sangamon Journal, where they were published for all to read. Ide’s encouraging descriptions about the feasibility of the trail and lure of fertile land and mild climate on the Pacific Coast convinced

13

THE ARTS

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Arts

& CULTURE

CREATIVE AWARENESS

First Tuesdays for Planet Earth

Henderson releases

“Shattered Skies”

R E U S E I T, U P C Y C L E I T A N D R E D U C E I T S T O R Y B Y P R I YA H U T N E R

P

lastic bags swirl in our oceans, landfills are full of waste and more than ever we live in a throw-away culture. How can we make a difference? Truckee Roundhouse volunteer and maker Kristen Anderson is working to bring awareness and effect change by limiting the things we throw away.

“Kristen is the brainchild behind First Tuesdays for Planet Earth,” says Karen Stanley, executive director of Truckee Roundhouse.

First Tuesdays for Planet Earth is a donation-based program held on the first Tuesday of the month. The hands-on classes, open to the public, teach partici-

pants how to make reusable household items. The program is geared to reduce dependency on single-use plastic and paper and raise awareness of the impact small, positive actions have on the environment.

The program is co-sponsored by Keep Truckee Green and Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships (SWEP).

I arrived for a napkin-making class led

by Anderson. She came up with the idea for the series of classes because she was upset about the amount of plastic and things we use once and throw away.

“I’ve always been a super maker. I am passionate about reusing, repurposing and upcycling,” says Anderson.

1 TUESDAYS FOR PLANET EARTH ST

DONATION BASED

OCT. 1 Making mesh produce bags NOV. 5 Beeswax cotton food wraps DEC. 3 Reusable cloth gift bags for the holidays

COMMUNITY FIX IT CLINIC 3RD WEEK OF OCTOBER TBD Free

Her commitment and dedication has apparently influenced both of her twin sons: Ben and Evan are both interns at SWEP. The juniors are both presidents of Envirolution an environmental club at Truckee High School. Ben is the president 14

Science fiction author Alice Henderson is releasing “Shattered Skies,” her highly anticipated third installment in her Skyfire Saga on Oct. 1. Henderson is a resident of Tahoe.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Priya Hutner sewing napkins at the Truckee Roundhouse Makerspace. | Ben Anderson; Kristen Anderson with sons Ben and Evan Anderson. | Priya Hutner; Finished cloth napkins. | Priya Hutner

dinner table —less paper, less waste. I am committed to making more cloth napkins.

Anderson, who is also an artist, leaned across the large worktable and pulled up her Instagram account to show me photos of the last class she offered at the makerspace. She had fashioned men’s ties

First Tuesdays for Planet of communications and Evan is president of advocacy. Both are passionate about the environment and the effects of climate change on the planet.

“Evan and I are both Nordic skiers and have seen effects of climate change on our snowpack,” says Ben. Both were on hand to help participants make napkins. We gathered around the worktables for instructions. We picked fabrics for our reusable napkins. Anderson directed us to cut out 14-inch squares of material. She demonstrated how to fold the corners, asking us to “make sure each corner is the same size.”

Then she deftly folded the long edges over twice, ironed each fold and pinned the material. We took to the sewing machines next. The machines began to buzz as some of us learned how use a sewing machine. A volunteer helped me guide the blue Japanese print material I chose along the edges of sewing machine foot.

Each piece of material started to look more like a beautiful piece of art and something I could use over and over at the

Earth is a donation-based program held on the first Tuesday of the month.

The hands-on classes, open to the public, teach participants how to make reusable household items. into utensil and chopstick holders. She is excited about her upcoming workshops open to ages 12 and older that include making reusable grocery bags, vegan beeswax, cotton covers for food storage, glass and metal straw carriers, and drying racks for plastic bags.

Truckee Roundhouse also offers Community Fixit events. Expert volunteers help repair broken appliances, mend and repair clothing and fix broken wind chimes and lawn art. | truckeeroundhouse.org 

“In the current political and environmental times we live in, this book could not come at a more opportune moment,” according to a press release from Rebel Base, an imprint of Kensington Publishing. “Seeking to shed light on what might happen if we continue with business as usual when it comes to anthropogenic climate change, Henderson highlights important issues with species extinction including the real possibility of human annihilation and environmental disaster, all while wrapping her dystopian world in poignant and captivating storytelling.”

Henderson is a writer of fiction, comics and video game material, and her novel “Portal Through Time” won the Scribe Award for Best Novel. | alicehenderson.com, kensingtonbooks.com

THE ARTS SEPTEMBER 19-26, 2019

Andy Skaff art exhibit Wolfdale’s | Tahoe City | Sept. 26-Dec. 30 wolfdales.com

Calendar Photo Contest Pet Network Humane Society Incline Village | Sept. 26-Oct. 4 petnetwork.org

Ceramics Class South Lake Tahoe Senior Center | Sept. 26

1:30-4:30 p.m. | (530) 544-1482, talart.org

Fall Colors Art Show Tahoe Art League Gallery South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 26-Nov. 30 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | talart.org

Fall Pop Up Exhibit North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Sept. 26

11 a.m.-5 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

THE ARTS

Courtesy Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail

September 26-October 2, 2019

BLAZE THE TRAIL AT

ART + AG The art and agriculture communities of Plumas and Sierra counties and Sierra County Arts Council are hosting the annual Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail on Sept. 28 to discover the history, culture and bounty of the Sierra Valley.

The event also offers children’s activities, artist demonstrations, educational opportunities, and a prize drawing for collecting stamps in the passport. Passports are $20 each. Access to the trails and printed maps are free. | sierravalleyartagtrail.org

“Stale Gravity” art show Sierra Nevada College Incline Village | Sept. 26-Oct. 4 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | (775) 881-7525, sierranevada.edu

Transcontinental Art Show Truckee Community Rec Center | Sept. 26-Oct. 31 chamber.truckee.com

Fiber Art Friday South Lake Tahoe Library | Sept. 27 1 p.m. | engagedpatrons.org

Flora and Fauna Art Exhibit North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Sept. 27-Nov. 10

11 a.m.-5 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

Writers in the Woods Sierra Nevada College Incline Village | Sept. 27-28

7-9 p.m. | (775) 831-1314, sierranevada.edu

Duke Theatre | South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 26 6 p.m. | ltcc.edu

“Obscured and Resurfaced” art show Sierra Nevada College Incline Village | Sept. 26-Oct. 24

9 a.m.-5 p.m. | (775) 881-7525

“Outboards: In-Style” Tahoe Maritime Museum Tahoe City | Sept. 26-Jan. 23

L A K E TA H O E • C A L I F O R N I A

MARINA

L A K E TA H O E • C A L I F O R N I A

(530) 583-1039 · TahoeCityMarina.com

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

Open Studio South Lake Tahoe Senior Center Oct. 1-July 20

10 a.m.-1 p.m. | (530) 544-2313

Evening PhotoWalk Sugar Pine Point State Park Tahoma | Oct. 2

6-8 p.m. | sierrastateparks.networkforgood.com

STORAGE • SERVICE • SALES

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

Click on Event Calendar. FREE! Gathering of Artists North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Oct. 1

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

String Together

10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | tahoemaritimemuseum.org

Tahoe City Library | Oct. 2

Public Tour

Pine Needle Basket Weaving Workshop

Truckee Roundhouse | Sept. 26

North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Oct. 3

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

TA H O E C I T Y

TA H O E C I T Y

MARINA

North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | Oct. 1-Sept. 7

Kristen Pobatschnig exhibit

LGBTQ Film Fest

Homewood

Incline Village

Gathering of Artists

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

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

Wye

10 a.m.-2 p.m. | tahoerimtrail.org

“Going Places: Sailing By Stars”

Incline Village Library | Sept. 26-30

MARINA

TA H O E C I T Y, C A Truckee

Ward Creek Trailhead | Tahoe City | Sept. 28

Kings Beach Library | Oct. 2-Feb. 3

10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | (530) 583-9283, tahoemaritimemuseum.org

TA H O E C I T Y

Capture the Colors of Fall

Evening of Poetry

Tahoe Maritime Museum Tahoe City | Sept. 26

WEATHER PERMITTING

Grove St.

Information centers will be at Sierra Valley Grange in Vinton, Sierra Valley Farms on A-23 in Beckwourth and Sierraville School on State Route 89 in Sierraville from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Participants can end the day with a tri-tip dinner from 4 to 6 p.m. at Sierra Valley Grange Hall.

Fuel dock 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Boat Rentals 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Jackpine

Visitors may explore at his or her own pace, enjoying Sierra Valley barn quilts and opportunities to visit market farms, working ranches and other historic buildings that are hosting local artists of wood, paint, glass, ceramic, metal, fiber and more.

BOAT RENTALS & FUEL DOCK

1-2:30 p.m. | (530) 583-3382, placer.ca.gov

Call Steve at (775) 287-1089 for our full service, low rate guarantee.

TahoeBoatManagement.com

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

15

MUSIC SCENE

Music SCENE TheTahoeWeekly.com

LIVE MUSIC, SHOWS & NIGHTLIFE

Victoria Bailey

CLASSIC COUNTRY FROM SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

E N T E RTA I N M E N T

CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 26OCTOBER 3, 2019

T A H O E

SUMMER EDITION

and to submit

STORY BY SEAN McALINDIN

| JUNE 6-OCT.

Calendar at Visit the Event .com for TheTahoeWeekly on, up-to-date informati more summer events your event.

10, 2019

LIVE MUSIC LIVIN’ IN THE WILD, WILD WEST

TheTahoeWeekly.com

ARTS & CULTURE FESTIVALS & FAMILY FUN CULINARY DELIGHTS

Sept. 26-28 | 8 p.m. | Moody’s Bistro, Bar & Beats | Truckee

START YOUR ENGINES PERFORMING ARTS INS THE MOUNTA ARE CALLING R FREE SUMME CONCERTS

HO

E W EEK

No. 1

TA

LY

source The for events, music & entertainment

I

TheTahoeWeekly.com issuu app iTunes & Google Play facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly @TheTahoeWeekly

f you like Neko Case, Ashley Monroe or Emmylou Harris, you’ll love Victoria Bailey, the idiosyncratic, spirited and timeless young country singer from Huntington Beach.

One play of her new single, “The Beginning,” and you’ll imagine yourself in a low-lit Bakersfield honky-tonk listening to the greatest concert of your life.

Bailey’s soprano head voice, the shimmering guitar, the iridescent pedal steel, it all casts from the opening notes a spell both classic and contemporary, an ode to an almost forgotten past that still sounds damn good today.

Wanderlust Read more about page 26.

Squaw Valley on | Courtesy Wanderlust

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

Just Exactly Perfect Music Festival The Nugget Campground, Placerville, 4:20 p.m.

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

Dave Leather Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint, Carson City, 6-8 p.m.

Singers Songwriters Music Series West Street Market, Reno, 6:30-9 p.m.

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

The Illusionists Experience Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 7 p.m.

“In Remembrance” Concert Genoa Lakes Golf Club Pavilion, Genoa, 7-9 p.m.

The Lique Peppermill Casino, Reno, 7 p.m.

way is the reason why I’m doing it all.

Coming up to Truckee, it’s so awesome hearing our music.”

–Victoria Bailey She wrote the song as a wedding gift for a couple who met at one of her shows six months earlier.

“When I played it at their wedding, I cried that whole day, out of joy. I’m very emotional. It’s so unreal. I feel like music has a lot secret powers like that.

I think it just confirms what I am doing,” says Bailey.

Ninety percent of Bailey’s material is autobiographical. The rest comes from books she happens to be reading at the time. A self-affirmed bibliophile, she recently wrote a tune for her 10-piece ensemble, The Jazz Cats, based on Harlem writer James Baldwin’s classic short story “Sonny’s Blues.”

“It’s about the civil rights movement in Harlem in the 1950s, the power of music and how big of a role jazz music and jazz clubs played in that time,” she says.

Bailey tours the West Coast with her boyfriend, singer/songwriter Eric Roebuck, who is known for his work with the eternally eclectic Professor Colombo, as well as his newest project, Roebuck & The Two Dollar Bill Band.

“A song touching someone a certain way is the reason why I’m doing it all,” says Bailey. “Coming up to Truckee, it’s so awesome for new ears to be hearing our music.”

The guitar duo will harmonize on classic tunes by Dolly Parton, Neil Young, The Band and, of course, Emmylou Harris and Gram Parsons after whom they’ve taken their particularly romantic California Country style.

“I’ve been singing in bars and little nightclubs for the past five years and I’ve learned so much,” says Bailey. “I’ve discovered my own sense of songwriting and met so many musicians playing in these little honky-tonks.”

Bailey and her country songwriting friends regularly gather at Mother’s Tavern in Sunset Beach to hang out and play music together.

“We have a good crew of people doing Country Western music in Orange County and L.A.,” says Bailey. “There’s a lot of old-school musicians, a little bit older than us playing Hank Williams and Waylon Jennings every weekend. We’re inspired by the same kind of music. I think that we all got here by listening to the right records.”

A few years ago, Bailey went on a month-long pilgrimage to Nashville, Tenn., for a little bit of musical inspiration.

“When I went there I wasn’t really playing country music yet,” she says. “On the first night, I stepped into the Station

Inn, which is an old-school bluegrass spot with peanuts of the ground and beer only.

It’s still my favorite place in the world.

The most seasoned, awesome musicians are always playing in there. Aside from the country pop, there is a lot of traditional music preserved in Nashville.”

Another day she wandered into the Bluebird Café and ended up writing a song with a Rodney Crowell’s niece, Hannah Sutherland.

“It keeps you on your toes because everyone is so fast-paced there with songwriting and performing,” says Bailey.

“Every little inch of the town has someone playing. Even the gas station has a bluegrass band out front.”

Back in California, Bailey continues to be motivated by the story in song format through which true country music has always persevered.

“I think storytelling will always be what stands out most in a song,” she says. “That’s how you write a country song. You have to tell a story about something that is so relatable to people. It’s also about preserving the sound of instruments that have been around for so many years. It’s from the heart. It’s not trying to be anything else.

It’s not covered up. It’s string instruments and a story.”

Victoria Bailey plans to release her debut album in 2020. | moodysbistro.com 

Skrillex

to headline SnowGlobe

Jason Nocito

someone a certain

for new ears to be

Check out the Tahoe Music, Events & Festivals guide for all the summer fun.

Click on Music Scene.

SEPTEMBER 26 | THURSDAY

“ A song touching

16

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

INSIDE

Advance presale tickets are on sale for the annual SnowGlobe festival in South Lake Tahoe, with Skrillex headline the New Year’s Eve show. The festival takes places from Dec. 29 to 31, headlined by Fisher, Gigantic Nghtmre, Griz, Louis the Child, Tchami X Maala, Vince Staples, E-40 and many more. | snowglobemusicfestival.com

September 26-October 2, 2019

MUSIC SCENE

C A L E N D A R | SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 3, 2019 The Great American Variety Show Harrah’s, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Jay Black Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

The Moanin’ Frogs Nightingale Concert Hall, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Madison Malloy & Aiko Tanaka Pioneer Underground, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Karaoke Davidson’s Distillery, Reno, 8 p.m.

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

Live Music Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 8 p.m.

John-Allison “A.W.” Weiss The Holland Project, Reno, 8-11 p.m.

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

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

Techno Thursdays The Rack, Reno, 10 p.m.-3 a.m.

Blackgummy 1up, Reno, 10 p.m.

Street Vibrations Fall Rally Area avenues, Reno

SEPTEMBER 27 | FRIDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Sierra Gypsies The Beacon, South Lake Tahoe, 1-5 p.m.

Kris Diehl The Idle Hour, South Lake Tahoe, 2 p.m.

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

Village Vibrations Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 3-7 p.m.

Live Music Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Reno, 4 p.m.

Just Exactly Perfect Music Festival The Nugget Campground, Placerville, 4:20 p.m.

Comedy Happy Hour Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 5:30 p.m.

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

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

Marc Broussard & Samantha Fish MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 7 p.m.

Caravanserai Harrah’s, Reno, 7-9 p.m.

The Lique Peppermill Casino, Reno, 7 p.m.

The Great American Variety Show Harrah’s, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Carson Comedy Club Carson Nugget, Carson City, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Jay Black Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Julian G Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

“Moon over Buffalo” CVIC Hall, Minden, 7:30-10 p.m.

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

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

Gin Blossoms Nugget Casino Resort, Sparks, 8 p.m.

The Mousetrap Theatre Palisades, Pacific, 8 p.m.

Black Rose Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 8-11 p.m.

Pete Munoz Reno Improv, Reno, 8-9:30 p.m.

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

The Illusionists Experince Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 8:30 p.m.

Madison Malloy & Aiko Tanaka Pioneer Underground, Reno, 8:30 p.m.

Live Music Ceol Irish Pub, Reno, 9 p.m.

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

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

Snake Boy Johnson Bar of America, Truckee, 9-10 p.m.

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

Rob Thomas Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 9 p.m.

Fryed Brothers Band Red Dog Saloon, Virginia City, 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

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

Jay Black Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9:30 p.m.

Ozymandias/Black Plague Wolves /Hired Fun Shea’s Tavern, Reno, 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

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

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

DJ Montague St. James Infirmary, Reno, 10 p.m.

Live Music Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 10 p.m.

Live Music Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 10 p.m.

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

Cut Snake 1up, Reno, 10 p.m.

Tahoe Wormhole Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 10 p.m.

Street Vibrations Fall Rally Area avenues, Reno

SEPTEMBER 28 | SATURDAY Bunny Yoga Festival Idlewild Park, Reno, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

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

Puppet Art Theater Company KidZone Museum, Truckee, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Wesley Orsolic Band The Beacon, South Lake Tahoe, 1-4 p.m.

Beethoven Lives Upstairs Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, Reno, 1-3 p.m.

Kris Diehl The Idle Hour, South Lake Tahoe, 2 p.m.

Summer Vibes Sierra Well, Reno, 2-7 p.m.

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

Village Vibrations Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 3-7 p.m.

Live Music Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Reno, 4 p.m.

Just Exactly Perfect Music Festival The Nugget Campground, Placerville, 4:20 p.m.

The Illusionists Experience Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 5 p.m.

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

BLOOM Youth Open Mic The Holland Project, Reno, 6-8 p.m.

Miss & Mr. Oktoberfest Pageant Himmel Haus, South Lake Tahoe, 6-11:30 p.m.

Madison Malloy & Aiko Tanaka Pioneer Underground, Reno, 6:30 p.m.

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

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

17

MUSIC SCENE

TheTahoeWeekly.com

JULIAN G

Sept. 27 | 7:30 p.m.

Tallac Historic Site | South Lake Tahoe STEINWAY ARTIST Julian G, commonly referred to as the “Pianist with the Hair” because of his distinctively curly locks, is a renowned classical pianist and composer who performs all over the world in prestigious venues from New York’s Carnegie Hall to Singapore’s Symphony Stage. | valhallatahoe.com

Katya Chilingiri

SAMANTHA FISH & MARC BROUSSARD CLASSICAL

BOMBARGO

Christina Bourne

SEPT. 28 | SATURDAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Alysse Gafkjen

ALTERNATIVE

AMERICANA SOUL

Sept. 27 | 8 p.m.

MontBleu Resort Casino | Stateline, Nev. CHARISMATIC VOCALIST and guitarist Samantha Fish will join bayou soul singer Marc Broussard for a special night of distinctively American music. | montbleuresort.com

Sept. 28 | 10 p.m.

Crystal Bay Casino | Crystal Bay, Nev. SASKATOON ROCKERS Bombargo drop a vibrant splash of soul on funky indie vibes and a mainline infusion rock ‘n’ roll. Their unrivalled energy on the stage includes sing-along anthems, magical harmonies and a truly powerful message for the people. | crystalbaycasino.com

TANK AND THE BANGAS

Major Motion Pictures · Independent Films Live Music · Dance Performances

Hustlers Sept. 26- Oct.2

Rally for Robb Fundraiser Immersion & 1999 Oct. 3 Joker Oct. TBD Metallica & San Francisco Symphony: S+M2 Oct. 9 Visit TahoeArtHausCinema.com for showtimes, schedule, events + tkts

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

18

Alex Marks

Roger Waters: Us + Them Oct 2

HIP-HOP/R&B

Sept. 29 | 8 p.m.

Crystal Bay Casino | Crystal Bay, Nev. NEW ORLEANS quintet Tank and the Bangas have a rare knack for combining fiery soul, deft hip-hop, deep-groove R&B and subtle jazz into one diversely dazzling, yet cohesive whole. | crystalbaycasino.com

Skynnyn Lynnyrd Harrah’s, Reno, 7-9 p.m.

The Lique Peppermill Casino, Reno, 7 p.m.

The Great American Variety Show Harrah’s, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

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

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

Carson Comedy Club Carson Nugget, Carson City, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Jay Black Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

“Moon over Buffalo” CVIC Hall, Minden, 7:30-10 p.m.

Country “Ladies Night” The Saint, Reno, 8 p.m.

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

Double Shot Max Casino, Carson City, 8 p.m.

ZZ Tush, the Greg Golden Band Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 8 p.m.

Beatles Flashback Band Brewery Arts Center, Carson City, 8-10 p.m.

Banda MS Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 8 p.m.

Daddy Long Legs Alibi Ale Works, Incline Village, 8 p.m.

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

The Illusionists Experince Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 8:30 p.m.

Live Music Ceol Irish Pub, Reno, 9 p.m.

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

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

Snake Boy Johnson Bar of America, Truckee, 9-10 p.m.

Karaoke Jimmy B’s Bar & Grill, Reno, 9 p.m.

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

Street Vibrations Fireworks Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9-9:30 p.m.

Reverse The Cycle Davidson’s Distillery, Reno, 9 p.m.

Fryed Brothers Band Red Dog Saloon, Virginia City, 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

P-Nanza ft. CupcakKe, DJ Laura Faces NV, Reno, 9 p.m.

Dead at Midnite, Los Hell Gamblers, Los Pistoleros Shea’s Tavern, Reno, 9 p.m.

Jay Black Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 9:30 p.m.

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

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

Live Music Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 10 p.m.

Live Music Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 10 p.m.

DJ Chris English Circus Circus, Reno, 10 p.m.

Lex Saturdays Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 10 p.m.

Cut Snake 1up, Reno, 10 p.m.

Bombargo Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 10 p.m.

“Maytag Virgin” Restless Artists Theatre Company, Sparks Nevada Fest Wingfield Park, Reno Street Vibrations Fall Rally area avenues, Reno

SEPTEMBER 29 | SUNDAY Live Music Nevada Museum of Art, Reno, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

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

“Moon over Buffalo” CVIC Hall, Minden, 2-5 p.m.

“In Remembrance” Concert Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 4-6 p.m.

Just Exactly Perfect Music Festival The Nugget Campground, Placerville, 4:20 p.m.

Sounds of the City Alturas Bar, Reno, 5-7 p.m.

The Illusionists Experience Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 5 p.m.

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

Jay Black Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

MarchFourth Marching Band Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 8 p.m.

Tank and the Bangas Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 8 p.m.

Live Music Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 8 p.m.

Skynnyn Lynnyrd w/ZZ Tush MontBleu Resort, Stateline, 8 p.m.

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

Fryed Brothers Band Red Dog Saloon, Virginia City, 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

“Maytag Virgin” Restless Artists Theatre Company, Sparks Street Vibrations Fall Rally Area avenues, Reno

SEPTEMBER 30 | MONDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

Just Exactly Perfect Music Festival The Nugget Campground, Placerville, 4:20 p.m.

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

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

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

Rose Dorn The Holland Project, Reno, 8-11 p.m.

Live Music Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 8 p.m.

Karaoke Polo Lounge, Reno, 8 p.m.

KVMR Celtic Festival Nevada Country Fairgrounds, Grass Valley “Maytag Virgin” Restless Artists Theatre Company, Sparks

September 26-October 2, 2019

MUSIC SCENE

CALL TODAY

DADDY LONG LEGS

Don’t Get Taken When Selling Your Collectible Wines

Most Wine Sales Programs Underachieve, We Can Fix That For You

Sept. 28 | 8 p.m.

Alibi Ale Works | Incline Village, Nev.

Make Your Non-Profit Fundraiser a Success

NEW YORK CITY’S beloved blues bashers Daddy Long Legs will blow your house down with their reckless take on modern lo-fi blues. | alibialeworks.com

Sommelier Services

Helping Businesses and Collectors Become More Successful for Over 30 Years

We Train Your Staff, Profitize Your Wine, Program, Represent Your Collection Sale, and Make Your Fundraiser Money

OCTOBER 1 | TUESDAY

Level 3 (Advanced) Sommelier

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

Live Music Ceol Irish Pub, Reno, 7 p.m.

Magic Fusion The Loft, South Lake Tahoe, 7-8:15 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 Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 8 p.m.

Louis Phillips

WineGuru123@gmail.com

(775) 544-3435 HISTORIAN & AUTHOR

MARK MCL AUGHLIN’S NEWEST BOOK - UPDATED EDITION

OCTOBER 2 | WEDNESDAY Redlight King Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 8 a.m.

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

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

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

Wednesday Night Showcase Ceol Irish Pub, Reno, 7 p.m.

The Illusionists Experience Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 7 p.m.

Van Morrison Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, 8 p.m.

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

Live Music Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 8 p.m.

Country Line Dancing/Karaoke Virginia Street Brewhouse, Reno, 9 p.m.

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

KVMR Celtic Festival Nevada Country Fairgrounds, Grass Valley

OCTOBER 3 | THURSDAY Live Music Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 11 a.m.

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

Dave Leather Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint, Carson City, 6-8 p.m.

Oktoberfest The Discovery, Reno, 6-8 p.m.

SKARHEAD, Brick by Brick, These Streets The Cellar @ Alturas, Reno, 7-11 p.m.

The Illusionists Experience Eldorado Resort Casino, Reno, 7 p.m.

The Great American Variety Show Harrah’s, Reno, 7:30 p.m.

Valhalla’s Threesome of Comedies Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Karaoke Davidson’s Distillery, Reno, 8 p.m.

New Wave Crave Silver Peak On The River, Reno, 8-11 p.m.

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

Live Music Atlantis Cabaret Bar, Reno, 8 p.m.

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

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

Offbeat Music Festival Dwontown, Reno

LO-FI BLUES

HANSON

Center for the Arts announces

new season

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

For the first time, The Center for the Arts

POP ROCK

Sept. 28 | 7:30 p.m.

Harrah’s Lake Tahoe | Stateline, Nev. IN 1992 AT ages 11, 9 and 6, Hanson brothers Isaac, Taylor and Zac blew up the Tulsa, Okla., music scene before charming with world with 1997’s “Mmmbop.”

They’ve released eight albums since including 2018’s “String Theory,” featuring the Prague Symphony. | caesars.com/ harrahs-tahoe

in Grass Valley has announced its 2019-20 season, rather than announcing shows one at a time. This year’s season will begin in December, to coincide with the opening of The New Center, and run through June 2020.

The inaugural season includes musical performances by Storm Large, The Mother Hips, Terry Riley, Gyan Riley, Kronos Quartet, Riders in the Sky, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra, Masters of Hawaiian Music, DakhaBrakha, Arlo Guthrie and Marc Cohn, among many others. | thecenterforthearts.org

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

(775) 298-4161 WEEKLY FOOD DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS AND TIMES: MONDAYS TAHOE CITY | 3:00pm to 3:30pm Fairway Community Center, 330 Fairway Drive TUESDAYS TRUCKEE | 3:30pm to 4pm Sierra Senior Center, 10040 Estates Drive WEDNESDAYS KINGS BEACH | 3:00pm to 3:30pm Community House, 265 Bear Street THURSDAYS INCLINE VILLAGE | 3:00pm to 3:30pm St. Patrick’s Church 341 Village Blvd. sierracommunityhouse.org

October 19-20 & 25-27 V&T Railroad • Virginia City, NV Visit dayoutwiththomas.com or call TicketWeb at 866-468-7630

19

LOCAL FLAVOR

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Local

flavor

FOOD & WINE, RECIPES, FEATURES & MORE

FORAGING FOR

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

F

all is in the air as temperatures cool and there are surprises in the forest for anyone who likes to forage. I live across the street from the Tahoe Donner Cross Country trail system by Piece of Cake and Cup of Tea trails to be exact and where the journey begins for this story.

If I am not out biking on the trails, I’m hiking; on this day I was on foot. During my uphill adventure on the Dogs in Space trail I pondered the beauty of the place

I spotted a thornylooking red fruit, which reminded me of a cross between an alien space satellite from a science-fiction movie and a Hawaiian sea urchin — the kind you see while snorkeling and don’t want to mistakenly touch.

I call home. The mule ears and corn lilies have since turned brown; yellow and purple flowers dotted the trail. As I walked upward, I noticed red berries everywhere: on the bushes, on small trees and on plants low to the ground. I spotted a thornylooking red fruit, which reminded me of a cross between an alien space satellite from a science fiction movie and a Hawaiian sea urchin — the kind you see while snorkeling and you don’t ever want to mistakenly touch.

If it wasn’t for the fact that I’d recently spoken to South Lake Tahoe forager Gina Woods, I would not have known what fruit had crossed my path. She mentioned that one of the berries available at this time of year is Sierra gooseberries.

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com Enjoy the tastes of the Tahoe Sierra. Click on Local Flavor.

I sent her a photo and she confirmed that indeed I was in a field of gooseberries.

It was getting late, so I made a plan to return the next day with a bag and scissors.

I enlisted my friend Alison Bermant to hike with me.

20

It was late afternoon when we set out.

With a bag over my shoulder and a pair of red scissors, we hiked the same route.

Alison pointed out the abundance of yarrow growing along the trail. Yarrow, a medicinal herb, is good for a myriad of ailments, including fever, colds, hay fever, diarrhea, stomachaches and toothaches.

The plant can be used to make tea, tinctures, salves and poultices. I made a mental note to pick some in the next few days to dry for tea; today I was focused on berries.

I noticed red berries hanging on some plants along the trail. I bent down to pluck one off the bush and a sharp thorn drove into my thumb. I yelped and swore.

I realized I made a rookie foraging move and forgot a pair of gloves, but I was determined. I bent down and gently picked a berry. The plant also had thorns.

We gathered the red berries while I cursed some more. We attempted numerous techniques, including shaking the bush and batting the small branches with a dog chucker to free the berries to avoid being impaled. As we started to hike up a bit more, we noticed other plants with less menacing berries. I texted Gina a photo; she thinks they might be chokecherries or another type of gooseberry. I decided to come back and pick some of those, too.

Alison and I hiked 3 miles and foraged about six cups of gooseberries. I felt a number of thorns deeply lodged in my fingers and palms of my hand. Back at my house, I poured the bounty into a large silver bowl. I carefully pulled the prickly exterior skin of one of the berries apart, which revealed a green grape-like center.

I squeezed it into my mouth; the fruit is

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Thorny gooseberries

hanging from plants; Jars of jelly; Preparing berries to wash.

sweet and delicious — perfect for jam.

Alas, I realized there is no way I am about to peel six cups of barbed berries. I took to the Internet for ways to remove the treacherous exterior of the fruit and find a recipe for jam or jelly.

There was little information available.

The few sites I came across suggested boiling the fruit and mashing the cooked berries and straining the juice. I snipped off ends of the berries and picked through leaves to wash the bounty of berries. I covered the gooseberries with water and brought them to a boil, then turned down the heat to simmer them.

I mashed and strained the cooked berries through a mesh sieve. I was left with a bright pink fluid, perfect for syrup.

My plan was to make jelly.

I’ll be out again this week picking berries and yarrow and making some fun things. In the meantime, happy fall foraging. Share your foraging photos and recipes at facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly or post them at #TheTahoeWeekly. | instagram. com/thetahoeweekly 

Priya Hutner is a writer, personal chef and workshop facilitator. She is the owner of the Seasoned Sage, which prepares organic artisan meals for dinner parties and events. She also offers in-home cooking classes, parties and local pop up dinners. As a breath meditation teacher and long-time yogi, she facilitates workshops and classes that focus on gaining a deeper awareness of self. Read more at TheTahoe-Weekly.com; click on Local Flavor. Send story ideas to priya@tahoethisweek.com. | (772) 913-0008, pria78@gmail.com, seasonedsage.com

GOOSEBERRY JELLY From the kitchen of Priya Hutner 6 cups of gooseberries ¼ cup lemon juiced 1½ cups organic sugar 6 tbs. pectin

Remove stems from berries and wash fruit thoroughly.

Cover berries with water in large stockpot.

Bring to a boil. Turn heat and simmer on low for 1 hour.

Mash fruit, strain and return to pot. Return fruit to stove; add lemon juice, sugar and bring to a boil. Add pectin and bring the pot back to a rapid boil, stir frequently until thickened. Put into jelly jars. Let cool.

Enjoy on toast, French toast, Dutch babies or pancakes.

LOCAL FLAVOR

September 26-October 2, 2019

FALL INTO WINE STORY & PHOTOS BY LOU PHILLIPS

G

ot down into the 20s last night — a chilly reminder that fall is here. We will be gifted by more crisp, cool air and leaves barely clinging to the trees, doing their color-turning dance. Say hello to another amazing change of seasons in the mountains.

We are changing, also. Even if science did not confirm this — and by the way, it does — our circadian cycle changes in preparation for not just autumn, but also the inevitable cold mountain winter. We naturally move into new patterns of sleep, activity and nourishment. Diets skew from cold salads and charcuteries to warm soups and roasted meats and vegetables. As for wine, doesn’t a slightly richer Chardonnay or California-style Pinot Noir sound better than cold-crisp Sauvignon Blanc or chilled Beaujolais right about now?

If that registers with you, then let me give you some can’t-miss selections that

For all you red rockers, fall is a time to rejoice as moderate days and chilly nights are where the textures and flavors of most red wines are more in their element. also overdeliver in the quality-price-ratio department. And while we are at it, let us also branch out from just Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. We will focus on regions that reliably produce the desired style of wine from the grape or grapes involved.

On the white side we may as well start with the classic Chardonnay; while there is no shortage of drinkable Chardonnay at value price points, it is a challenge to find wines of distinction here, especially in the value range. A good rule of thumb is to look for wines labelled as unoaked. This not only means no barrel time, but also usually precludes the use of oak alternatives, which typically lets purer Chardonnay character come through. Spain is another wellspring for fall whites, specifically the regions of Rioja, Rueda and Rias Biaxas. Also, pretty much any white from Alsace, Italy or Oregon will fit the bill as wines from these regions typically display the body and spice that a good autumn wine needs.

Fall Fundraiser

Christa Finn from The Pour House shows Spanish Whites for fall. | Lou Phillips

In Rosés, look to France’s LanguedocRoussillon region, Spanish Garnacha-based blushes and California’s Central Coast and Sierra Foothills, especially their dry versions.

For all you red rockers, fall is a time to rejoice as moderate days and chilly nights are where the textures and flavors of most red wines are more in their element. Please remember that even in cooler weather, reds shine best when served at old-schoolroom temperature, meaning 60 to 67 degrees depending on the weight and style of the wine.

We don’t want to poo-poo Pinots; they really are a magical match for autumn.

California, New Zealand and Chilé are go-to regions for medium-plus bodied and flavorful Pinot Noirs. Dolcettos from Piemonte, Italy; Mencias from Bierzo, Spain; France’s Loire Valley Gamays and Cabernet Francs and Bonardas from Argentina are also excellent fall choices.

Cheers. 

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com Explore more wines with Sommelier Lou Phillips. Click on Local Flavor: Wine Column.

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.

SATUR

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Commons Beach, Downtown Tahoe City | 12-5pm LIVE MUSIC

Petra Restaurant and Wine Bar located in the village of Northstar.

Petra focuses on Mediterranean Farm to Table Cuisine that rotates throughout the season.

Such as Oven Roasted Fulton Valley Chicken, dijon béchamel sauce with market vegetable of the week and Cast Iron Pan Seared Bavette Steak, topped with Chimmichuri, pickled onion over sweet summer corn.

Mention this ad and receive 1/2 off an appetizer with purchase of an entrée during the month of September.

and Traditional Accordionist Robert Ludgate

FREE ENTRANCE

$20 DONATION  INCLUDES BEER GLASS AND 2 DRINK TICKETS

Fun for all ages Kids Activities, Games Craft Vendor Village

GERMAN INSPIRED FOOD AND DRINK PROVIDERS: Lagunitas - JAM Cellars - Pioneer Cocktail Club Sierra Nevada - Auburn Alehouse - Fifty Fifty Brewing Co. Common Cider Co. - Firestone Walker Brewing Co. Kona Brewing Co. - Booch Craft - Alibi Ale Works The Rub Shack - EATS - Fuller’s - Men Wielding Fire Big Blue Q - Mogrog - Little Truckee Ice Creamery

COSTUMES ENCOURAGED! Bavarian-themed Costume Contest

Produced by and a fundraiser for

VisitTahoeCity.org

Remember to leave your furry friends at home, no dogs allowed at Commons Beach.

uncorkedtahoe.com petra@uncorkedtahoe.com | 530.562.0600 21

LOCAL FLAVOR

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Two days, two

Oktoberfest

celebrations

Kings Beach Lunch Specials Daily Dinner Special 4-10pm

$4.00 Margaritas $3.50 Dos Equis $2.50 Draft Bud

25% Off Mexican Combo Dinners

Full

Bar

Clare Foster | TCDA

Early Bird Special 4-6pm

Open 11:30am-10:00pm (530) 546-4539 8345 North Lake Blvd. - Across from the State Beach in Kings Beach

The 14th annual Kiwanis fundraiser Sierra SeptOberfest returns on Sept. 27 with a beer garden, wine tasting and a German buffet dinner from 6 to 10 p.m. at Montbleu. Guests will be greeted by German Maidens and an Oompah band. A DJ for dancing, stein holding contest, silent auction, live auction and envelope prizes round out the evening.

The ticket price of $50 includes wine, beer and buffet dinner. Proceeds from the event benefit local children, with emphasis on at-risk kids. Also benefiting is the Kiwanis Aktion Club, a service club for adults living with disabilities. | tahoesierrakiwanis.org

Eclectic old world Ambiance Home made Pastas Wide-ranging Wine list DINNER AND BAR NIGHTLY FROM 5-9 PM Reservations Recommended

Happy Hour

Sun-Thurs | 5-6 pm

TAHOE CITY OKTOBERFEST

Downtown Truckee | (530) 587-4694

Tahoe City’s annual lakeside Oktoberfest celebration at Commons Beach is on Sept.

28 from noon to 5 p.m. Revelers will enjoy craft beers from local microbreweries, food from local food trucks, traditional Bavarianthemed games and a craft vendor village. The crowd will also select the winner of the Best German-themed Costume contest. Music will be performed by Lumbercat, a Reno, Nev.based, five-piece troupe known for blending groovy 1970s inspired rock ‘n’ roll with indie soul and a touch of funk.

PianetaRestaurantTruckee.com

Nightly 5-6 p.m.

This is a free community event. Commemorative Oktoberfest beer glasses will be available for $20 and include two drink tickets for guests ages 21 and older. Additional beer tickets will be sold for $5. Bavarian-themed food items will be available from Big Blue BBQ, Eats Cooking Co., Fuller’s, Men Wielding Fire, Mogrog Rotisserie and Rub Shack.

Children can enjoy face painting and pumpkin painting. Pumpkins will be free on a firstcome, first-served basis; art supplies will be provided. | visittahoecity.org

Dining for

Schools Cards on sale

ChristyHill.com 115 Grove St., Tahoe City CA 530-583-8551 22

Tahoe Truckee Excellence in Education is offering its Dining for Schools cards, which affords dinners 50 percent off an individual dinner entrée at 45 participating local restaurants while supporting Tahoe Truckee schools.

Five new restaurants have joined the program this year - Bourbon Pub and Petra in the

Village at Northstar, Manzanita at The RitzCarlton Lake Tahoe, The Sawyer at Schaffer’s Mill in Truckee and Copper Lane Cafe and Provisions in the Village at Northstar.

Cards are $50 each and available online or at Safeway in Truckee and Kings Beach, Save Mart in Truckee and Tahoe City, Mountain Hardware and Sports in Truckee, Copper Lane Cafe and Provisions in Northstar, The Store in Tahoe City or online. | exined.org

Blue Angel closes After 17 years, the popular Blue Angel Café has closed in South Lake Tahoe. The cafe was a favorite among locals and visitors, offering friendly service and tasty cuisine, including vegan and gluten-free options.

“Restaurants have a critical schedule that is completely inverted to the schedule of our three school-aged children. We cannot miss these years with them,” owners Jeff and Rosie Cowen wrote in a e-blast to customers announcing the closure.

“We close today with enormous gratitude for every person we ever served and with great optimism for both our future and for the future of a pending business at this location.” | blueangelcafe.com

TA S T Y TIDBITS

Send Tidbits to editor@tahoethisweek.com

Tahoe City Farmers Market Commons Beach | Tahoe City | Sept. 26, Oct. 3

8 a.m.-1 p.m. Free | tahoecityfarmersmarket.com

Tahoe Forest Cooking Club Tahoe Forest Center for Health | Truckee | Sept. 26

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | (530) 587-3769, tfhd.com

Sierra SeptOberfest MontBleu Resort Casino South Lake Tahoe | Sept. 27

6-10 p.m. $50-$55 | tahoesierrakiwanis.org

Genoa Candy Dance Downtown | Genoa | Sept. 28, Sept. 29

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free | genoanevada.org

Oktoberfest The Fox Brewpub | Carson City | Sept. 28

11 a.m.-8 p.m. | (775) 883-1369, visitcarsoncity.com

Tahoe City Oktoberfest Commons Beach | Tahoe City | Sept. 28 12-5 p.m. Free | visittahoecity.org

Reno Beer Crawl The Library Bar | Reno | Sept. 28

2-6 p.m. $5-$20 | (775) 327-8300, renobeercrawl.com

Nevada Fest Wingfield Park | Reno | Sept. 28 (775) 825-9255, nvfest.com

South Lake Tahoe Farmers Market American Legion Hall South Lake Tahoe | Oct. 1

8 a.m.-1 p.m. Free | eldoradofarmersmarket.com

September 26-October 2, 2019

LOCAL FLAVOR

MUSHROOMS STUFFED T W O W AY S B Y C H E F D AV I D “ S M I T T Y ” S M I T H

S

tuffed mushrooms are one of those appetizers that are about as versatile as you can get. The numbers of different fillings are endless. The stuffing can be anything from simple breadcrumbs, to seafood, to vegetables, to meat. Any kind

Stuffed mushrooms are one of those appetizers that are about as versatile as you can get. of meat — from a sausage that you remove from the casing and sauté, to chicken, beef, lamb or any other meat you can think of — will make an excellent stuffing. Not only can you vary the meat, but you also can create different toppings for them. I mean, all you need is to decide about what flavors go together and plan from there. For an example, if you stuff the mushroom with a lamb filling, you can top it with a mint hollandaise sauce.

Wait. You never heard of mint hollan-

BUTTERNUT SQUASH From the kitchen of: Chef David “Smitty” Smith

12 mushrooms, stemmed & sautéed 3-5 sage leaves, fine chopped ½ butternut squash, peeled, seeded & cubed 1-2 T butter Salt & fresh ground pepper to taste Pinch of nutmeg 1-2 drops real maple syrup

Season the squash with a little salt and pepper and bake until tender.

Add half the butter, nutmeg and half the sage and mix well. Add the rest of the butter to taste or if the mix is still dry and season to taste.

Fill the caps, place a drop or two of maple syrup on top and heat under the broiler for about half a minute or so.

CHICKEN & RICE 12 mushrooms, stemmed & sautéed (save liquid in a bowl) Mushroom stems, chopped small & sautéed (save liquid) 1-2 baked chicken thighs, skinned & boned, chopped small 1 C cooked rice 4 oz. heavy cream 3-5 sage leaves, fine chopped 2 oz. cream sherry Salt & pepper to taste

Lift the chicken skin, season the thigh and replace the skin and bake the chicken.

Once baked, skin, bone and chop the chicken. This will give maximum flavor and keep it moist.

Cook the rice; add half the sage as soon as you remove the rice from the stove and fluff it in with a fork.

Blend chicken, rice and sautéed stems and season with the rest of the sage, salt and pepper, as needed, and stuff the caps.

In the pan used for sautéing the mushrooms, add the sherry and let reduce until nearly gone or is becoming jelly-like. Add the mushroom juice and heavy cream and let reduce until thick. Season with salt and pepper and another few drops of sherry to taste and pour over caps.

daise? Well, I have to admit, I never had either, although I’m sure I’m not the first to come up with the idea, but it sounded like it would match perfectly so I figured, what the heck. It was great. That’s the beauty of cooking, what I am always telling you: there are no rules when it comes to cooking other than creating dishes that work for your taste buds.

The one thing I will always do before I stuff mushrooms is to sauté them. It really does affect the texture of your finished product for most fillings. First you want to gently break off the stems holding them as close to the base inside the cap as possible. Then, sauté the caps in a little butter starting with the cavity face down for a minute or two and then flipping them over to finish. If you start them cavity up, then when you flip them the weight of the cap will collapse the mushroom sides. Be sure to save the juice as a sauce base for the topping if you want.

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com

Dinner Nightly 5:30PM | Monumental Happy Hour! Daily 2:30-5:30PM Food Under $10! | Drinks Under $5!

2285 River Road Tahoe City, Ca. 96145 | 530.583.4264 | www.RiverRanchLodge.com

Fine Italian Food & Spirits

Locals Love Lanza’s!

Open for Dinner

(530) 546-2434

Call for hours

BAR - 4:30 p.m. DINNER - 5 p.m.

7739 N Lake Blvd - Kings Beach

LanzasTahoe.com

530.583.3324

2905 Lake Forest Road, Tahoe City

BacchisTahoe.com

Try Smitty’s recipes for Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms. Click on Local Flavor: Chef’s Recipe.

If you think about making about 1 teaspoon or a tiny bit more of filling per cap, that should give you enough extra to try it a few times to get the seasonings right.

Here are two fillings that are easy, as well as tasty. 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.

BREAKFAST

|

LUNCH

|

DINNER

Open Daily at 8:00 am

HAPPY HOUR 4:30-6:00 pm daily Tuesday All Night!

Martini Mondays $8

spindleshankstahoe.com 400 Brassie Ave, Suite B · Kings Beach

(530) 546.2191 Sunday through Thursday not valid w

20% OFF ENTIRE FOOD BILL Sunday through Thursday not valid with any other offer | Expires Oct. 3, 2019 | Excludes holidays

Famous for our Mexicans!

(530) 587-3557 10186 Donner Pass Rd - Truckee

FEATURING: Slow-Roasted Prime Rib | Baby Back Ribs Steaks | Full Bar | Seafood Pasta | Gourmet Hamburgers 12 ft. Long Salad Bar | Kid’s Menu

JasonsBeachSideGrille.com

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(530) 546-3315

8338 NORTH LAKE BLVD., KINGS BEACH, CA

23

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Planned Opening Date: Oct 25, 2019