April 2014- September 2014 North Lake Tahoe Media Placements

April 2014- September 2014 Media Placements The Abbi Agency

North Lake Tahoe Table Of Contents

Date

Publication

9/25/2014

A Bird in the Hand Travel

9/24/2014

Modern Luxury: The Atlantan

9/24/2014

Boston.com

9/19/2014

KTNV

9/18/2014

CBS San Francisco

9/17/2014

Reno Gazette Journal

9/16/2014

KRNV

Ironman Lake Tahoe Organizers Prepared if Smoke Does Not Clear by Sunday's Race

9/15/2014

Endless Vacation

Destination: Lake Tahoe Beyond the Blue

9/15/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

9/15/2014

Great Taste Magazine

9/15/2014

CBS San Francisco

9/13/2014

RGJ- Online

9/13/2014

Examiner

9/4/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

9/4/2014

Fly to Reno-Tahoe

9/3/2014

Tahoe Weekly

9/3/2014

KRNV

9/3/2014

KOLO

9/2/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

9/2/2014

Moonshine Ink

9/1/2014

Diablo Magazine

Title Lake Tahoe: Should You Visit in Summer or Winter?

Turns Ahead Fire Makes Lake Tahoe Beauty All the More Precious Things 2 Do This Weekend Ironman Organizers Say Triathlon in Lake Tahoe Still a Go Despite King Fire IRONMAN Truckee Viewing Party

Truckee andNorth Lake Tahoe Businesss Announcements Overnight Sensation- Resort at Squaw Creek- Lake Tahoe- June 2014 Tom Stienstra Outdoor Report Links IRONMAN Lake Tahoe, 70.3 will be Sept.

21 Inaugural Epicurean Weekend at RitzCarlton North Lake Tahoe Campaign Simplifies Recreation Choices Sky's the Limit with Events In Reno-Tahoe Savory Delights at Autumn Food and Wine Nevada Proud: Reno Mom Competing in Ironman World Championship this Fall New Form of Yoga Rising to the Surface of Lake Tahoe Tahoe-Truckee Road Closures on Tap for Ironman 2014 North Lake Tahoe Chamber Breakfast Addresses ADA Compliance Tahoe Fall Fun

North Lake Tahoe Table Of Contents

Date

Publication

8/28/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

8/27/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

8/27/2014 8/27/2014 8/27/2014 8/26/2014

Reno Gazette Journal RGJ- Online Curbed Ski San Diego Magazine

8/26/2014

Shermans Travel

8/21/2014

Visualistan

8/21/2014

Visual.ly

8/21/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

8/21/2014

NBC Bay Area

8/21/2014

AARP

8/20/2014

Tahoe Ski World

8/20/2014

NBC Bay Area

TahoeART Month: September Surprises

8/20/2014

RGJ- Online

8/19/2014

7x7

8/15/2014

Skift

8/15/2014

Reno Gazette Journal

8/14/2014

7x7

8/11/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

8/10/2014

Reno Gazette Journal

Eating News & Notes Tahoe's Top Food, Wine, and Nature Events this Fall Lake Tahoe Wants to Teach Travelers How to Have Fun Outdoors Ta-Hoe NALU Paddle Festival How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in North Lake Tahoe Business Announcements for North Lake Tahoe and Truckee Ta-Hoe NALU Paddle Festival

8/10/2014

Getaway: Reno/Tahoe

The Best View for a Lake Tahoe Sunset

8/9/2014

A Luxury Travel Blog

8/7/2014

The Sacramento Bee

Summer Fun in Lake Tahoe Head into the Sierra for a Trio of Food and Wine Events

Title North Lake Tahoe Plein Air Open to Host 'Meet the Artist' Reception Follow signs for 'DETOURS' public art in Kings Beach Lake Tahoe Autumn Food&Wine Eating News & Notes Tahoe Buzz Where to Work off that Wine 7 Best Spots for Beginners to Learn to Stand-Up Paddling A North Lake Tahoe Guide to HumanPowered Sports A North Lake Tahoe Guide to HumanPowered Sports Business Announcements for North Lake Tahoe and Truckee North Tahoe's Human-Powered Sports Tips Outdoor Weekend Getaway in Lake Tahoe Register Now for Ironman Lake Tahoe Triathlon

North Lake Tahoe Table Of Contents

Date

Publication

8/7/2014

Tahoe Ski World

8/7/2014

NBC Bay Area

8/6/2014

Where: Reno-Tahoe

8/6/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

8/6/2014

Fly to Reno-Tahoe

8/5/2014 8/4/2014

Yahoo Travel RGJ- Online

8/4/2014

Real Weddings

8/1/2014 8/1/2014

Visit Reno Tahoe Newsletter Endless Vacation

7/30/2014

USA Today

7/30/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

7/30/2014

RGJ- Online

7/30/2014

Visit Reno Tahoe

7/30/2014

EIN News

7/28/2014

NBC Bay Area

7/28/2014

Examiner

7/23/2014

Marketing Land

7/19/2014

RGJ- Online

7/18/2014

Reno Gazette Journal

7/18/2014

RGJ- Online

7/17/2014

Curbed Ski

Title Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival Sept 5-7 at Northstar TahoeART Month: September Surprises A Human-Powered Movement Takes Over Reno-Tahoe North Lake Tahoe Wedding Faire to Highlight Vendors, Venues North Lake has the Guide to #PeakYourAdventure Best Lake Vacations Art Events from August 3 and Beyond Save-the-Date: North Lake Tahoe Bridal Faire Best Lake Vacation Weekenders: Lake Tahoe Ski Tahoe: Home of Seven World-Class Ski Resorts North Lake Tahoe July 4 Fireworks Display Valued at $200,000 Weekend Planner for August 1 and Beyond Ta-Hoe NALU Paddle Festival 10 Things to doin August 2014 in Lake Tahoe: Top August Events and Summertime things to do in Lake Tahoe Announced by TahoeBest.com Tahoe and Napa: Finding Summer Shakespear Top 10 Summer Activities in North Lake Tahoe get to Know: North Lake Tahoe Convention & Visitor Bureau CMO andy Chapman Hot August Nights Ready to Pack the Streets Wanderlust More Than Just Yoga: Wanderlust a Feast for the Senses Mapping the 14 Most Spectacular Ski Town Concert Venues

North Lake Tahoe Table Of Contents

Date

Publication

7/16/2014

SheKnows

7/16/2014

Curbed Ski

7/14/2014

Curbed Ski

7/11/2014

KTNV

7/8/2014

Endless Vacation

7/7/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

7/6/2014

KTNV

7/5/2014 7/4/2014

Reno Gazette Journal Reno Gazette Journal

7/4/2014

RGJ- Online

7/4/2014

KOLO

7/3/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

7/3/2014

The Sacramento Bee

7/3/2014

Los Angeles Times

7/3/2014 7/2/2014 7/2/2014 7/1/2014 7/1/2014 7/1/2014

KRNV Tahoetopia Getaway: Reno/Tahoe Style: El Dorado Reno Magazine Nevada Magazine

7/1/2014

7/1/2014

Title You have to add these 10 music festivals to your bucket list Lakes to Hot Springs: Mapping Where to Swim in Ski Towns The Very Best Parks in North American Ski Towns, Mapped!

Thousands Celebrate Independence Day a Day Early in North Tahoe Destination: Lake Tahoe Beyond the Blue Kings Beach Fireworks Follow Beach Party Ahead of the Fourth of July Billy Ray Cyrus Honors Michael Landsberry at Concert Tahoe Teeming A Fun Fourth Drought, Heat, Calendar Yield Massive Tahoe 4th Crowds Festivities Planned for 4th of July in Northern Nevada and California Sashay to Gatekeeper's Museum for Lake Tahoe Dance Festival Flags, Fireworks, Fun: Fourth of July Weekend Events Ski Resorts Gear up for Summer Activities 4th of July Celebrations 2014 Lake Tahoe Fireworks Roundup Around Reno-Tahoe July 2-8 Summer Splendor A Day on The Lake Fourth of July Fireworks

MoneyShow.com

10 Things to do in July in Lake Tahoe 2014: 4th of July, Summertime Activities, and July Events Listed by TahoeBest.com

Minyanville

10 Things to do in July in Lake Tahoe 2014: 4th of July, Summertime Activities, and July Events Listed by TahoeBest.com

North Lake Tahoe Date

Table Of Contents

Publication

Title

7/1/2014

Market Wired

10 Things to do in July in Lake Tahoe 2014: 4th of July, Summertime Activities, and July Events Listed by TahoeBest.com

6/30/2014

Visit Reno Tahoe

The Ultimate Fourth of July in Reno Tahoe

6/30/2014

Tahoe.com

6/30/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

6/30/2014

Curbed Ski

6/30/2014

About Travel

Fourth of July Celebrations at Lake Tahoe

6/28/2014

RGJ- Online

4 Events This Week in Reno-Tahoe Area

6/28/2014

Lake Tahoe News

6/26/2014 6/26/2014

Style: El Dorado The Sacramento Bee

6/25/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

6/23/2014

The I Love Dogs Site

6/23/2014

Getaway: Reno/Tahoe

6/20/2014

Silicon Valley

North Tahoe Ambracing 4th of July with Myraid Events Summer Splendor Casinos: Lighting Up Tahoe for July 4 North Lake Tahoe Truckee Business Announcements Top 5 Dog Friendly National Parks How to Celebrate America's Birthday in Reno/Tahoe North Lake Tahoe Sparkles in Summer

6/20/2014

Men's Health

The 10 Manliest Races in North America

6/19/2014

Reno Gazette Journal

6/19/2014

RGJ- Online

6/19/2014

About Travel

6/10/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

6/1/2014

Getaway: Reno/Tahoe

Dining with a view in North Lake Tahoe

6/1/2014

Getaway: Reno/Tahoe

6/1/2014

Getaway: Reno/Tahoe

5/31/2014

Vail Daily

Biking Adventures on Flume Trail How to Celebrate America's Birthday in Reno/Tahoe Travel Feature: Loving Lake Tahoe

4th of July in Lake Tahoe North Lake Tahoe and Truckee Set to Celebrate Independence Day Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks in Ski Country, 2014 Ed.

Beat Crowds, Get More Lake Time with Tahoe Beaches App Adventure Time: Tahoe Celebrates Full Week of Outdoor Sports Free Summer Music Concerts in 2014 North Lake Tahoe Truckee Business Announcements

North Lake Tahoe Table Of Contents

Date

Publication

5/31/2014

Summit Daily

5/27/2014

Curbed Ski

5/26/2014

KOLO

5/25/2014

San Francisco Examiner

5/22/2014

Global Travels Blog

5/22/2014

7x7

5/20/2014

Curbed Ski

5/19/2014

Visit California

Homewood Resort and West Shore CafĂŠ

5/18/2014

The Sacramento Bee

Escapes: Historic Fun for Memorial Day

5/17/2014

KOVR-TV

5/16/2014

Tahoe Quarterly

5/15/2014

Curbed Ski

5/13/2014

7x7

5/1/2014

Galena & Arrowcreek

Staycation Destinations Near Home

4/29/2014

Getaway: Reno/Tahoe

Dining with a view in North Lake Tahoe

4/26/2014

KTNV

4/22/2014

Yubanet.com

4/22/2014

xtri.com

4/22/2014

Triathalonbusiness.com

4/22/2014

Tahoe Daily Tribune

4/22/2014

RGJ- Online

4/22/2014

KRNV

Title Travel: Loving Lake Tahoe, an Unforgettable Summer Destination The Best Ski Town Bike Paths Tahoe Businesses Report Busy Memorial Day Lake Tahoe: Sierra Nevada Paradise Offers More Than Stunning Scenery Five Scenic Bike Trails Near Globa Discovery Vacations Destinations 50 Things to do in Tahoe This Summer 100 Ski Country Hikes with Spectacular Fall Foliage

Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Sacramento Sweet Spots for Chef Sightings Ski Country's Best Restaurants with a View Watch Bob Burnquist Skate on a Floating Half-Pipe in the Middle of Lake Tahoe

Easter Egg Hunts, Church Services this Weekend Two IRONMAN events race same day in Lake Tahoe Ironman Announces New Event in Lake Tahoe Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe runs with full distance Ironman Lake Tahoe Ironman Lake Tahoe expands lineup North Tahoe to host pair of Ironman events North Lake Tahoe adds additional IRONMAN event

North Lake Tahoe Table Of Contents

Date

Publication

4/22/2014

Fox11

4/21/2014

Triathlete

4/21/2014

LAVA Magazine

4/21/2014 4/15/2014 4/13/2014

Ironman Famtripper Visit Reno Tahoe

4/10/2014

Tekaroo

4/6/2014

The Sacramento Bee

4/2/2014

On The Snow

4/1/2014

Meetings Focus

4/1/2014

iMedia Connection

4/1/2014

Kiaora Magazine- Air New Zealand

Title North Lake Tahoe adds additional IRONMAN event Ironman adds 70.3 Lake Tahoe Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe to Become 25th Race in U.S. Ironman 70.3 Series Ironman adds 70.3 Lake Tahoe Squaw Valley: Ski Resort Elegant Easter Dining Easter Egg Hunts and Celebrations at Lake Tahoe Travel: The slopes still call in spring Where's the Snow this Weekend: West Coast Report Lake Tahoe Holds Scenic Diversions for Active Groups 4 Funny Content Marketing Moves Biggest Little City

Lake Tahoe: Should You Visit in Summer or Winter? by e l l e c r o f t posted on s e p t e m b e r 2 5 , 2 0 1 4

by Brendan Croft When people ask me to name my favourite place I’ve travelled to, I cannot help but mention Lake Tahoe. For me, this place is the epitome of all things I love about a travel destination. The tranquil and relaxing setting of the lake and surrounding mountain ranges are paired with endless amounts of activities and nightlife, which is a heavenly combination.

The big question I am always asked is whether I prefer the summer or winter in Lake Tahoe. This may sound like an odd thing to ask, but this is one of the very few destinations in the world that will give you a completely opposite experience in both seasons. In the name of research, I have been there to experience both seasons, and here’s what each one has to offer:

Winter in Lake Tahoe: Lake Tahoe is littered with ski resorts. People always seem surprised when I tell them it’s probably my favourite place to ski because it’s in California, the State of sunshine and beaches. But Tahoe is home to a multitude of world famous ski resorts all within 40 mins of each other and just a few hours from San Francisco. In winter you can ski or snowboard, as well as partaking in a multitude of other winter activities. My favourite resort is Squaw Valley / Alpine Meadows on the North Lake. It’s a good all-round resort with some super challenging terrain thrown in.

Heavenly, which is probably the Lake’s best-known resort, is situated on the State line of California and Nevada. This creates an interesting dynamic with 24-hour casinos and the craziness of Nevada contrasted by a relaxed, chilled out California vibe literally separated by a street. Heavenly offers the novelty of skiing in both states, and you’ll be rewarded with some magnificent views from the top of the mountain: the lake surround by snow-capped mountains one side and seemingly endless, flat desert on the other.

Lake Tahoe during summer: Long, warm days spent relaxing on the Lake’s beaches or playing in the crystal clear water are amazing!

While the water tends to stay pretty cool throughout the summer months, it is refreshing taking a dip, trying some stand up paddle boarding or water skiing across the top of the sapphire blue water. Driving around to some of the viewpoints that are located on the Lake is a great way to spend a day. I love the drive on the south west shore to Emerald Bay. This secluded bay is picture perfect and it really captures some of the true beauty of Lake Tahoe.

In summer the ski resorts of winter flip to their summer schedule which generally includes hiking and mountain biking. For me, Northstar on the northern side of the Lake is the place to go and test your skills hurtling down the mountain on two wheels.

In all honesty, I find it hard to decide which season I prefer. They are both so different and so beautiful in both seasons but if you love skiing and all things snow sports related, Lake Tahoe in winter is a destination that MUST be on your bucket list. If you prefer summer, head up and check this place out‌I guarantee that the only thing you will be disappointed about is having to leave!

Turns Ahead Misty Milioto | Photo: Courtesy of the ski resorts | September 24, 2014 You've waited all year: our annual roundup of the latest and luxest at top ski resorts nationwide.

It’s all downhill from here.

This year, the top U.S. ski resorts are offering striking upgrades to further elevate your winter getaways to even higher levels of mountain luxury. We’ve vetted the finest offerings on or near the slopes in six buzzing ski states to curate this exclusive register of all that’s new and noteworthy where the powder is most posh. Along with superb lodging options and VIP-level packages come new-arrival restos, lively après-ski spots, can’t-miss events and hot nightlife. Even better? Uberlocal intel, off-the-grid ski runs and tips from local ski celebs. Enjoy the ride.

CALIFORNIA | NEVADA The legendary skiing at Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes is reason enough to book the first flight to the Golden State. Located within the Sierra Nevada range (the most popular ski destination in California), Lake Tahoe boasts nine premier ski resorts situated around the lake. And with a variety of terrain and snow conditions, combined with sophisticated amenities and nonstop nightlife on the Nevada side of the lake, this is one area where you can have it all. Meanwhile, Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, located in the Eastern Sierras, boasts the highest summit of any California resort (at 11,053 feet), 3,500 skiable acres, 400 inches of annual snowfall, and steeps and bowls for a variety of skill levels.

North Lake Tahoe: Sugar Bowl Resort MOUNTAIN MAKEOVERS This season, Sugar Bowl Resort is celebrating its 75th anniversary with top-notch regional bands at the Mt. Judah Lodge and new signature events. Silver Belt Banzai (a modern reincarnation of a classic ski race at Sugar Bowl) will now feature finish-line Jumbotrons, more festive pre- and post-race parties and a historical element that pays homage to the original Silver Belt races from the 1940s.

Meanwhile, B4BC’s Shred the Love (an annual rail jam event), will feature music by a national act, a larger auction program and an even bigger competition venue. And special guest-appreciation days offer discounted throwback pricing on lift tickets.

Coinciding with the anniversary is the new $3 million Crow’s Peak chairlift—a fixed-grip Doppelmayr triple—that offers lift-served access to the previously hike-to advanced and expert terrain on the Strawberry Fields area of the mountain. Accompanying enhancements include two new groomed runs; tree skiing through glades, chutes and cliffs; and a wind-protected area on inclement-weather days.

ALL-IN APRÈS Mellow Fellow GastroPub just opened a new location in Kings Beach in North Lake Tahoe. Stop by for the selection of American craft beers and locally made sausages.

If you’re looking for some additional exercise after hitting the mountain—or if you just need some R&R—be sure to check out the new $4.5 million Sport Haus Fitness and Aquatic Center, available for use to lodge guests. Centrally located between Sugar Bowl’s lifts, the resort’s lodge and the snowbound village, it includes two lap lanes, outdoor hot tubs, fitness facilities, a yoga studio, spa treatment rooms and an athletic training space.

LOCAL LORE John Monson, director of sales and marketing for Sugar Bowl Resort and Royal Gorge Cross Country Resort, picks his top five must-do’s: 1. Take the hike to Lunch Rock, across the Judah Ridge from Summit Chair. It’s perhaps the most remote and peaceful spot on the entire mountain, where you can choose to leave the resort for a fantastic backcountry run down to Donner Lake, or drop in to the Judah Bowl and back into Sugar Bowl.

2. Take the Elevator Shaft into the Silver Belt Gully. It’s a unique spot in ski country, complete with huge walls and a narrow entrance into a classic descent.

3. The new Crow’s Peak chairlift provides access to steeps, chutes and powder in classic old-growth groves.

4. The Mt. Disney Sun Deck is a great place to take a mountaintop break and enjoy the panoramic vistas of Donner Summit.

RUN OF YOUR LIFE It’s tough to beat the Lake Run. And although Sugar Bowl’s four peaks with 100-plus trails across nearly 1,700 acres offer plenty of action, it’s sometimes nice to enjoy backcountry powder with the professional guides at Backcountry Adventure Center’s Alpine Skills International.

North Lake Tahoe: Northstar ALL-IN APRÈS The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, located midmountain at Northstar, has two new dining options: Backyard Bar & BBQ, offering ski-in/ski-out outdoor dining and saloon-inspired cocktails, and Café Blue (offering fresh-pressed juices and smoothies, paninis and Blue Bottle Coffee). Other après offerings at the hotel include Marshmology (roast s’mores with handcrafted marshmallow flavors at the fire pit at 4pm) and The Après Experience, featuring nightly culinary events (such as Barrel-Aged Cocktails) at the Manzanita restaurant. Guest rooms from $499 per night RUN OF YOUR LIFE East Ridge, located along the ridge line of Northstar’s Mount Pluto, is a great place to take in the views of Tahoe’s Crystal Bay. Cruise the entire length of East Ridge’s intermediate groomed trail, or try the advanced options of Powder Bowl, The Chute or Tonini’s.

Fire makes Lake Tahoe beauty all the more precious 

SEPTEMBER 24, 2014 9 :09 AM

ABOUT THIS BLOG

New England travel ideas and advice from Boston.com staff and correspondents, including Boston and the rest of Massachusetts.

One of the joys of travel is learning something new on every journey – while also seeing some of the most magnificent places on earth. But travel can also be a wakeup call to the perils that our planet faces. A couple of years ago, I wrote about the retreat of the glaciers in the Canadian Arctic brought about by global warming.

Now I've seen first-hand the far-reaching effects of the King Fire still raging near Lake Tahoe in northern California. One of the largest fires in the state so far this year, it was likely set by an arsonist, but exacerbated by California's severe drought.

As my girlfriends and I drove up I-80 toward Lake Tahoe last Thursday evening for a long-anticipated getaway, we began to see and smell the smoke that hung in the air even though the fire was still more than 20 miles southwest of the lake. The blaze was the main topic of conversation the next morning at Rosie's Cafe (www.rosiescafe.com) in tiny Tahoe City, a local favorite for breakfast, and later in the day as we took a tram up the mountain at Squaw Valley ski resort (site of the 1960 Winter Olympics) for a bird's-eye view of Lake Tahoe. The 22-mile-long and 12-mile-wide lake is the second largest alpine lake in the world, renowned for both its clear water and remarkable setting amid mountain peaks.

Museums on the West Shore recount the area's development from Native American hunting and fishing grounds to a logging and mining center, and ultimately a tourism destination. As we ate lunch on the deck of Sunnyside (www.sunnysideresort.com), a lakeside institution (left) that recalls the simpler days of mid-20th century tourism,

we hoped that the relatively smoke-free air meant that firefighters were besting the blaze.

By Sunday morning, we were ready to head to more rugged South Lake Tahoe, where the narrow road climbs quickly as it snakes through a landscape of glaciercarved granite. Emerald Bay, a National Natural Landmark, is generally considered the most stunning spot on the lake. I can't confirm the claim as the smoke grew thicker as the day progressed. (See photo at right.) Even though firefighters were making some progress at containing the 80,000-plus acre blaze, we decided to cut our trip short.

I will definitely try to return to hike the Balancing Rock Nature Trail, take a lake cruise, ogle some of the historic old estates, and take way too many photos of Emerald Bay. But I'm not going to take our most special places for granted ever again. This brush with fire was a vivid reminder of just how vulnerable they can be.

Things 2 Do This Weekend Posted: Sep 19, 2014 12:58 PM PDTUpdated: Sep 25, 2014 3:15 PM PDT

By Erin Breen - email

If you are looking for a reason to get out of the smoke in the Truckee Meadows this weekend there are lots of them on this week's list of Things 2 Do! Dayton Valley Days are both Saturday and Sunday, this year's Taste of the Comstock is Saturday, the Ironman Competition is in Tahoe Sunday and the Edible Pedal is in Washoe Valley. But there are also concerts including a master of the didgeridoo who will be performing with the Reno Chamber Orchestra. Enjoy!

Saturday 9/20 The Reno Chamber Orchestra and the Didgeridoo William Barton will be performing with the Reno Chamber Orchestra at Nightingale Hall at 7:30 p.m. www.renochamberorchestra.org

Sunday 9/20 The Reno Chamber Orchestra and the Didgeridoo William Barton will be performing with the Reno Chamber Orchestra at Nightingale Hall at 2 p.m. www.renochamberorchestra.org

Lake Tahoe Ironman competition It's a grueling competition that draws crowds to Tahoe. The Ironman Competition is this weekend. www.ironmanlaketahoe.com

Ironman Organizers Say Triathlon In Lake Tahoe Still A Go Despite King Fire September 18, 2014 12:05 PM

LAKE TAHOE (KCBS) — While the organizers of Ironman Lake Tahoe said the event is still on for this Sunday, some are worried that smoke from the King Fire, burning near Pollock Pines, could create a health hazard for competitors.

The National Weather Service is anticipating that most of the smoke from the King Fire will clear out of the Tahoe region by this weekend and North Lake Tahoe Resort Association spokesman Andy Chapman told KCBS that there are currently no plans to cancel the race.

“The forecast actually shows for clear skies and highs in the mid-70s for Sunday,” he said.

“Obviously any contingencies that would come into play would come into play on Sunday morning but there Iron Man races are all over the world, quite frankly, and they have contingencies for everything.”

Chapman said about 3,100 athletes have signed up for Ironman in Lake Tahoe.

“Pretty much people come from every state and eight to ten different countries—folks are coming internationally to participate as well,” he said.

In addition to all the athletes, the triathlon is expected to draw as many as 10,000 people to the Tahoe region.

Ironman Lake Tahoe organizers prepared if smoke does not clear by Sunday’s race Published: 9/16 5:21 pm Updated: 9/16 10:31 pm

OLYMPIC VALLEY, Calif. (MyNews4.com & KRNV) -Thousands of athletes are competing in Ironman Lake Tahoe this weekend. The event involves a 2.4 mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a marathon.

Ironman organizers said they are relying on the National Weather Service's prediction that smoke in the Lake Tahoe region will clear out by this weekend. Officials said as of now, no changes are expected, but said they will have to wait until race day to know for sure. "You know, I think a cancelled race is very rare, I don’t think that’s really ever happened,” said North Lake Tahoe Resort Association's Chief Marketing Officer Andy Chapman.

Approximately 3,100 athletes will be racing through Lake Tahoe Sunday for the Ironman event. With smoky conditions around the region from the King Fire, organizers are hoping the air is clear by race day. "But again, looking right now, there's no anticipation of any change, I think everyone's comfortable with the way the forecast is going right now, and so we should have a great race come Sunday morning," said Chapman.

Still, Chapman said the safety of athletes and spectators is the most important part of Ironman. So he said if the smoke has not cleared by Sunday, race modifications could happen. "You know, not to play armchair quarterback, we won’t know what that is, certainly we'll be watching the weather patterns and come Friday, we'll see if the forecast that the Weather Service is putting out there is in fact accurate, we do things can change."

Ironman Lake Tahoe will be Kristin Bradfield's seventh competition. She said the smoke has affected her training this week. "Yeah I went out the one day and ran in it for quite a while, and I coughed for maybe 24 hours, so yesterday I stayed in all afternoon and evening, so it’s keeping us inside a little more than we would like."

But Bradfield is keeping a positive attitude for race day. "Ironman people are really determined and I’ve seen people race with serious injuries and illness and I don’t think the smoke will stop people from trying."

But if any race changes end up happening on Sunday, officials said they will post updates on the Lake Tahoe Ironman website. If you plan on attending the event this weekend, you are encouraged to go early and expect delays throughout the Tahoe region.

Destination: Lake Tahoe Beyond the Blue Sure, Lake Tahoe is a looker. But there’s a world of beauty beyond its shores, too, especially in the gloriously gaudy days of autumn.

BY TINA LASSEN

Oh, we get it, we do—America’s largest mountain lake can be quite a temptress: the way the dragonfly-blue water shimmers, reflecting the serrated Sierras; those bewitching beaches and smooth granite boulders that rim the shores; the waterfront restaurants with their rowdy piers and cocktail hours. But really, there’s more. Look up from Lake Tahoe and its well-traveled waterfront to discover a host of new temptations up above the lake.

North Side: Recreation All Around Many visitors to Tahoe arrive from the north via Interstate 80 from Reno (40 miles northeast) or Sacramento (100 miles southwest). The thriving town of Truckee marks the gateway to the Tahoe basin, where the Truckee River flows north from the lake through a pine-scented canyon. A paved bike path parallels the burbling waters for a pleasant 5.5-mile ride from the Squaw Valley ski resort to the lakefront at Tahoe City. Locals favor traveling the same stretch of river by raft or inner tube, gliding over gravel bars in an impromptu party. (Rentals are available at Truckee River Rafting in Tahoe City.) Take out at theRiver Ranch Lodge, which conveniently serves craft beer and the region’s best nachos.

Several designer golf courses hide among the Tahoe pines, but none can match the charms of Old Brockway, in Kings Beach. Bing Crosby, Dwight Eisenhower and the Rat Pack used to tee off at this tree-lined course, which manages to celebrate both nostalgia and the game, having long drives and tight, sloping greens. Nearby Coyote Moon Golf Course also brings unique appeal, rolling through quintessential Sierra scenery.

Memorable views abound along the Tahoe Rim Trail, a 165-mile route that encircles the lake. Hikers can reach many segments for out-and-back day trips. At Brockway Summit on California Highway 267, sample a five-mile stretch of the trail (or drive up a nearby dirt road) to the Martis Peak Lookout, a Forest Service fire tower perched high atop a granite slab. All of Lake Tahoe’s 21-mile length spills out to the south, hemmed in by a horizon of mountain peaks. Pack a lunch and soak it all in for a while.

West Side: High Sierra Hikes Tahoe’s mountain scenery is at its most majestic above the lake’s western shore, where the Sierras rise to nearly 10,000 feet. You’ll need to lace up some hiking boots to enjoy it, since much of the area is roadless federal wilderness. It’s worth every step to reach high alpine lakes, looming granite pinnacles and meadows that may still be sprouting wildflowers. Plus, late summer and autumn is the only time you get the keys to this kingdom: It’s usually buried in snow from November into July.

Near Sunnyside, Ward Creek Boulevard leads west from California Highway 89 to a trailhead two miles inland. The trail north into Page Meadow puts on one of Tahoe’s best wildflower shows in late summer. In autumn, follow the Tahoe Rim Trail west, a 3.3-mile route that climbs alongside Ward Creek through meadows and aspens to 30-foot McCloud Falls. Turn around here, or continue another 2.5 miles up a steep, switchbacking route toward Twin

Peaks and the Pacific Crest Trail. It’s a well-earned panorama of deep canyons, broad fields and the scissored peaks of the wild Sierras.

For another adventure, head to Emerald Bay, on Tahoe’s southwest shore. Hike west from the Eagle Falls picnic area. This popular route leads to Eagle Lake, tucked among the talus slopes. It’s lovely, and just a taste of the trio of lakes that awaits under the imposing face of 9,974-foot Dick’s Peak, in Desolation Wilderness, another four miles along the trail.

South Side: Cowboy Country From South Lake Tahoe, 89 follows one of the few natural routes out of the lake basin, exchanging the bold blue of Tahoe for the bright gold of aspens as it climbs and dips through high passes and saddles. At Hope Valley, fluorescent aspen groves border California Highway 88, which bends south and skyward toward 8,573-foot Carson Pass.

All sorts of activities line this scenic road: horseback riding, mountain biking, paddling or fishing small alpine lakes, and ziplining at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. The same is true of California Highways 89 and 4 east of Hope Valley. The area draws fly fishermen to the famed East Fork of the Carson, visitors to the sweet 19th-century silver-rush town of Markleeville, and anyone who loves cruising among sublime mountain scenery.

If you head north instead of south from Hope Valley, 88 eventually descends into Nevada’s gaping Carson Valley. The Old West still echoes loudly here, where Kit Carson forged new routes up into the Sierras, where the Pony Express galloped across the high desert, and where everyone from Teddy Roosevelt to Mark Twain made their way to David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort. You can still soak in those same natural mineral springs, seeping and steaming out of the Earth’s crust into six outdoor pools, all with views of the cowboy countryside.

East Side: Historic Riches The Gold Rush never really ended in Virginia City, perched high on a ridge atop the Comstock Lode, one of the richest ore deposits ever found. Some $300 million in silver and gold was pulled from these mountainsides in the 1860s, making Virginia City one of the wealthiest cities in the nation, credited with spurring the growth of Nevada and the city of San Francisco.

A young reporter at the Territorial Enterprise newspaper arrived here as one Samuel Clemens and left a few years later as Mark Twain.

Look beyond Virginia City’s trinket shops to find some gems, from old saloons to mine tours and the little basement museum displaying Twain’s desk. The Virginia & Truckee Railroadfires up its steam locomotive for open-air narrated train tours to Gold Hill or Carson City, showcasing old mining routes and the occasional herd of wild horses. Virginia City also delights in hosting kooky events, including the International Camel and Ostrich Races(first weekend in September) and the World Championship Outhouse Races (first weekend in October).

Driving north toward Reno, the high desert climate of the Washoe Valley seems a world away from the pine forests and mountain streams around Lake Tahoe. Yet it lies just over the Carson Range. Circle back via the Mount Rose Scenic Byway (Nevada Highway 431), a wonderfully snaky route that twists through an impressionistic swirl of autumn colors.

Suddenly, a striking view appears around a hairpin turn: the oh-so-blue beauty of Lake Tahoe, welcoming you back.

EAT 1862 David Walley’s Restaurant and Saloon Entrees include elk rack with beurre blanc. 2001 Foothill Rd., Genoa, NV; 775-7830788;1862davidwalleysresort.com; dinner for two, $85* Kirkwood Inn & Saloon Mountain trout, New York strip steak and chicken-and-dumplings. 1501 Kirkwood Meadows

Dr., Kirkwood, CA; 209-258-7304; kirkwood.com; dinner for two, $55 River Ranch Lodge A seasonal menu served on the banks of the Truckee River. 2285 River Rd., Tahoe City, CA; 866-991-9912; riverranchlodge.com; dinner for two, $70 Stella Worldly flavors, like ahi sashimi with Berber spices. Cedar House Sport Hotel, 10918 Brockway Rd., Truckee, CA; 530-582-5655; cedarhousesporthotel.com; dinner for two, $90 Stonefly Pizzas from a wood-fired oven. 14821 Calif. Hwy. 89, Markleeville, CA; 530-6949999;stoneflyrestaurant.com; dinner for two, $60 *Prices have been converted to U.S. dollars. Estimated meal prices do not include drinks, tax or tip.

PLAY Coyote Moon Golf Course 10685 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA; 530-5870886;coyotemoongolf.com; green fees, from $100 International Camel and Ostrich Races visitvirginiacitynv.com Kirkwood Mountain Resort 1501 Kirkwood Meadows Dr., Kirkwood, CA; 209-2586000;kirkwood.com Old Brockway 400 Brassie Ave., Kings Beach, CA; 530-546-9909; oldbrockway.com; green fees, from $30 Truckee River Rafting 175 River Rd., Tahoe City, CA; 530-5831111;truckeeriverrafting.com; rentals, from $35 a person World Championship Outhouse Races visitvirginiacitynv.com EXPLORE Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake Trail www.fs.usda.gov Tahoe Rim Trail tahoerimtrail.org Virginia and Truckee Railroad F St. Depot, Virginia City, NV; virginiatruckee.com; 775847-0380; roundtrip ride, from $48 RELAX David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort 2001 Foothill Rd., Genoa, NV; 888-7721862;davidwalleys-resort.com; day passes, $30 STAY RCI affiliated resorts in and near Lake Tahoe include: Americana Village 0485 A lodge-style resort with a recreation area, dry sauna, Jacuzzi and heated outdoor pool.3845 Pioneer Trail, South Lake Tahoe Lake Tahoe Vacation Resort 4066 Located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, this resort offers an array of activities from hiking to skiing. 901 Ski Run Blvd., South Lake Tahoe

Tahoe Seasons Resort 2627 This hilltop resort offers scenic views of mountains as well as forests. 2901 Saddle Rd., South Lake Tahoe Tahoe Beach & Ski Club 0924 Enjoy 400 feet of beach as well as a game room at this resort, on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe. 3601 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe Stardust—Tahoe 0515 Homemade cookies at check-in are just one of the many ways this lodge delivers the comforts of home. 4061 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe The Lodge at Lake Tahoe 1101 A small, family-friendly resort with a year-round outdoor spa. 3840 Pioneer Trail, South Lake Tahoe The Lodge at Kingsbury Crossing 7506 A boutique lodge in the heart of Heavenly Valley. 133 Deer Run Court, Stateline For member reviews and additional resort listings, visit RCI.com or call 800-3387777 (Weeks) or 877-968-7476 (Points). Club Members, please call your specific Club or RCI telephone number.

Non-RCI affiliated resorts: West Shore Café and Inn A six-room inn and café. 5160 West Lake Blvd., Homewood, CA; 530-5255200;westshorecafe.com; doubles from $229 a night The Landing Resort and Spa Lake Tahoe’s newest boutique hotel. 4104 Lakeshore Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA; 855-7005263; thelandingtahoe.com; doubles from $209 a night The Cedar House Sport Hotel Contemporary boutique hotel. 10918 Brockway Rd., Truckee, CA; 866-5825655;cedarhousesporthotel.com; doubles from $170 a night NOTE: Information may have changed since publication. Please confirm key details before planning your trip.

Published: Fall 2014 Photos: Cathleen Allison (2)

Truckee and North Lake Tahoe business announcements 9/15/2014

Content for briefs is selected from e-mail submissions to Community Editor Amy Edgett at aedgett@sierrasun.com.

NLTRA calls for grant funding applications The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association announced $50,000 of grant funding available for special events in the North Lake Tahoe region of Eastern Placer County for the 2014-2015 fiscal year.

All grant money is slated for marketing and public relations efforts needed to promote events in the region. Preference will be given to events that encourage overnight stays.

“By offering this funding to a wide variety of events we hope to showcase the diversity of North Lake Tahoe,” said Andy Chapman, chief marketing officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/ Resort Association. “Our experience has shown that extra money for marketing can make a great difference in attendance and profitability at special events.”

After initial review, select applicants will be asked to give the Grant Funding Task Force a five-minute presentation on Oct. 8. The presentation to the Board of Directors for approval will take place Nov. 5. Funding notification to applicants will occur Nov. 6.

All interested groups must fill out the special event grant application by Sept. 19. For an application and information contact Judy Laverty at 530-581-8702 or Judy@GoTahoeNorth.com.

Ironman Lake Tahoe Viewing Party Plans The Truckee Downtown Merchants Association (TDMA) is planning an Ironman Lake Tahoe Viewing Party on Sept. 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. including: Live feed of swim-bike-run transitions on Jumbotron; beer garden; music; dining and drink specials; and cowbells for sale in the California Welcome Center in the Train Depot.

The bike portion of the race will cruise through historic downtown Truckee twice. Donner Pass Road will be closed from 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. from High to Bridge streets.

The TDMA is working closely with the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce and the town of Truckee on event plans.

Tahoe Truckee Job Fair The One-Stop Business & Career Center, Sierra Human Resources Association (SHRA), Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce, Golden Sierra, North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce & Resort Association, North Tahoe Business Association, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and the Lake Tahoe Sustainability Collaborative will sponsor the Tahoe Regional Job Fair on Friday, Nov. 7, 3:30-6:30 p.m. at the North Tahoe Event Center, 8318 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach.

For more information contact Charlotte J. Hawley at 530-550-3015.

Truckee inventor going global Founded by Truckee local David Curtis, Weather Tech Fasteners is now Weather Tech Fasteners Global Solutions Inc. In the past year since the initial launch Weather Tech has developed relationships with Middle East distributors to sell in 17 countries; Kenya to sell in seven African countries, in Brazil for South America and in Canada.

Weather Tech Fasteners’ warehouse is filled with fasteners in 10 colors and a range of sizes and lengths to suit your needs. The website features information and some extreme weather videos just for fun, visit www.weathertechfasteners.com. Contractors should check out the Contractors Club — join it and you can earn free screws.

For more information call David Curtis at 530-414-5697.

Overnight Sensation – Resort at Squaw Creek – Lake Tahoe – June 2014 9/15/2014 Teri Williams At the base of Squaw Valley, amongst tall trees and freshwater streams lies a fortress of fun and relaxation. Resort at Squaw Creek, located on Squaw Creek Road in Olympic Valley, is a AAA Four Diamond hotel offering upscale amenities and access to the breathtaking natural beauty of Lake Tahoe. In addition, the options for outdoor recreational activities are seemingly endless. During winter, guests can harness their adventurous side by skiing, snowboarding, sledding or even snowshoeing. When summer comes around, the resort provides miles of trails for hiking and biking in addition to freshwater streams for fishing and other leisurely activities. After their various adventures, visitors can recharge and refuel at one of the many dining options that Resort at Squaw Creek has to offer, including one of North Lake Tahoe’s premier fine dining establishments, Six Peaks Grille.

Just as pretty and pristine as the great outdoors surrounding it, Resort at Squaw Creek is home to 405 luxury rooms and suites. Choose between a cozy deluxe room, a fireplace suite or a luxurious penthouse, depending on what type of experience you wish to have. Each room and suite is elegantly decorated to achieve an upscale ambiance without sacrificing the comforting at-home feel.

To accompany its exquisite living spaces, Resort at Squaw Creek offers an impressive array of services and amenities, highlighted by ski-in/ski-out access in the winter, championship golf in the summer, and luxurious spa services all year long.

With six different restaurants to choose from, Resort at Squaw Creek is sure to satisfy every guest that walks through their doors. Enjoy a casual lunch at Sandy’s Pub or grab a quick sandwich on the way to the slopes from Sweet Potatoes Deli. If you’re interested in a more upscale dining experience, try some of the gourmet offerings from Chef Chad Shrewsbury’s Six Peaks Grille.

Featuring fresh regional ingredients and an innovative approach, each dish embodies a blend of wholesome, unique flavors. Six Peaks Grille also offers signature handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Resort at Squaw Creek 400 Squaw Creek Road

IRONMAN Lake Tahoe, 70.3 will be Sept.

21 12:09 a.m. PDT September 13, 2014

For the first time, IRONMAN Lake Tahoe and IRONMAN 70.3 will be held on the same day, Sept. 21, in North Lake Tahoe.

Athletes in both races will start the swim at Kings Beach State Recreation Area, cyclists will go through Truckee over Brockway Summit and then run into Squaw Valley.

Top finishers in IRONMAN Lake Tahoe will be awarded 50 age-group slots in the 2015 IRONMAN World Championship.

Inaugural Epicurean Weekend at RitzCarlton September 13, 2014 The Ritz-Carlton at Lake Tahoe has announced its Inaugural Epicurean Weekend. October 3d and 4th will see a weekend centered around food.

Robin Penning, the Communications Director at the Ritz-Carlton, sent out a delicious press release outlining what this weekend is all about. The short version is this: food, really good food.

The weekend, according to Penning, "will include the opportunity to cook alongside the resort’s culinary team, as well as a special dinner presentation prepared by local celebrity chef Mark Estee of Campo, chez louie, Burger Me! and Heritage, and Executive Chef Stanley Miller of The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe."

Stanley Miller, the executive chef at the Ritz, had this to say: "“We had so much fun throughout the summer inviting guests into the resort’s kitchens that we’ve decided to add to our already scheduled fall events and for the first time, introduce a weekend of culinary-inspired activities.

Our goal is to offer guests the opportunity to not only cook a meal alongside our culinary team, but to welcome one of the most talented chefs in the region into our kitchen as we work together to prepare a special dinner for resort and local guests.”

The number of participants is capped at 20. The epicurean weekend is priced at $1,158, per guest room. The package includes two nights of deluxe accommodations, a cooking class with Chefs Estee and Miller, a hosted lunch prepared by participants, a long table dinner at Manzanita which will be prepared by Estee and Miller on Saturday, and a relaxing brunch on Sunday.

That's a lot to squeeze into a weekend. For foodies though, it will be a weekend well worth attending.

Not only is the event mouth watering, Lake Tahoe at this time of year is especially beautiful, as the aspens, cottonwoods, and other tress put on their annual Autumn color dance. It's a perfect combination, good food in a spectacular setting.

For more information, contact Lauren Hoffman at lauren.hoffmann@ritzcarlton.com.

North Lake Tahoe campaign simplifies recreation choices 9.4.2014

business marketing tools to attract vacationers who want to forget all about business this autumn.

A campaign developed by The Abbi Agency in Reno uses e-books, instructional videos on YouTube and a fresh new infographic to draw visitors for what the campaign has dubbed “Human Powered Sports.”

With a tone that’s lightly tongue-in-cheek, the campaign provides an introduction to traditional sports such as road biking and hiking along with new activities such as yoga performed atop a stand-up paddleboard and routines in aerial fabrics.

Abbi Whitaker, owner and president of the Abbi Agency, says the campaign is designed to help visitors sort through the sometimes overwhelming outdoor sports choices at Lake Tahoe.

“Take mountain biking for example,” Whitaker says. “For a newbie in North Tahoe on vacation, the process of getting on the trail can seem prohibitive. Bike rentals, trail locations and gear are all question marks that can keep a visitor from experiencing the splendor of North Tahoe singletrack.”

The e-book and YouTube tools are supported by social-media content that supports humanpowered activities at Lake Tahoe.

A key piece of the campaign is an infographic that includes statistics such as the number of people who have completed the full 165-mile Tahoe Rim trail. (It’s 1,600.)

“Infographics get shared more than anything and go viral,” says Whitaker.

The campaign, which is just launching in an effort to drive autumn visitors to the lake, was financed by a $10,000 grant from the Nevada Commission on Tourism with matching funds from visitors bureaus at Incline Village and Crystal Bay.

Sky’s the Limit with Events In RenoTahoe

by Fly Reno Tahoe September 4, 2014 No CommentsUncategorized

Events in Reno-Tahoe take to the skies and back down again with Reno Balloon Races, Air Races, Tour de Tahoe Bike Race and more.

September is Event Month in the Biggest Little City September is a busy month in Reno Tahoe USA starting with The Great Reno Balloon Race Sept. 5-7, followed by another airborne spectacular, The National Championship Air Races, Sept. 10- 14. The weekend of Sept. 21 offers a challenge for athletes looking to flex their muscles. The Edible Pedal is a bike ride that winds through Carson City and Lake Tahoe and riders can stop along the way to sample fresh, locally sourced foods. Street Vibrations Fall Rallyrumbles into Reno-Tahoe Sept. 24 – 28 with thousands of custom “hogs” on display throughout the destination.

Oktoberfest, IRONMAN Return to Squaw Valley this September North Lake Tahoe’s largest Oktoberfest celebration is returning to The Village at Squaw Valley Sept. 27, complete with Bavarian music, authentic German beer and food and the ever-popular Oktoberfest Games. Attendees are encouraged to further get into the spirit of the event by wearing traditional lederhosen and dirndls. Oktoberfest is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entry is free. The first beer, sold in a commemorative festival glass, is $10; additional beers are $5.

Also returning to Squaw Valley this September is the world-renowned IRONMAN Lake Tahoe race Sept. 21. The Village at Squaw Valley is the ultimate location for spectators, hosting the transition between the bike course and the run, as well as the race finish.

Special Events Surround the Lake this Fall The 12th annual Tour de Tahoe – Bike Big Blue Sept. 7 is another opportunity to ride around beautiful Lake Tahoe’s 72-mile shoreline. Just like the spring ride, this ride around the Lake offers spectacular scenery, great food and support. It also offers the famous sightseeing Boat Cruise and 35-Mile Lake Tahoe Half Ride Fun Tour. Start and finish at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa. Run, walk, swim, paddle, peddle or golf during the Lake Tahoe Marathon & Run Tahoe Events Sept. 12-14. All runs are point-to-point and scenic from start to finish. Both the half and full marathons border the west shore of Lake Tahoe and feature the challenging hills near Emerald Bay.

Lake in the Sky Airshow is Sept. 20, and fun for everyone. There will be sky divers, kids’ activities, War Birds, classic car show, police dog K9 demonstration, bomb robot, helicopters, chili cook-off, food court, beer and wine garden, fire trucks, fly-bys, tons of aerial performers and much more.

Tahoe Bike Classic invites you to be a part of the ONLY timed race around Lake Tahoe Sept. 27-28. Formerly called The Great Lake Tahoe Bike Race, The Tahoe Bike Classic is now evolving into much more. The race is now in a Gran Fondo format so racers can hammer and riders can ride. We’ve also added a hill-climb time trial, just to get warmed-up.

Camp Richardson Resort offers affordable, educational and entertaining festivals including the Fall Fish Festival and Oktoberfest, Oct. 4-5, where visitors can view the colorful Kokanee swimming up Taylor Creek and celebrate the German tradition of great food, music, family games and the famous Beer and Wine Garden.

Comstock Calendar is Full All Fall Head to Virginia City for fall fun. World Championship Outhouse Races kick offOct. 4-5, as outhouses, yes outhouses, race down the main drag for top honors at this commemorative event. The following weekend run for your life as Zombies take over the Comstock with Redrun II – The Zombie Sequel Oct. 11. To wrap up the month the town participates in the state wide celebration of the Nevada sesquicentennial as they play host to the Nevada 150 Masquerade Ball and Statehood Parade taking place on Nevada’s actual birthday, Oct. 31.

North Lake Tahoe declares September TahoeART Month Month-long celebrations including public art displays, demonstrations, fundraising events and more, all showcasing the region’s leading photographers, painters and artisans. With so many options, it is difficult to decide where to begin.

The North Lake Tahoe Plein Air Open event kicks off the month with dozens of artists painting on-location at venues across the region. Through Sept. 7 expect to find artists at beaches, parks and other gathering places. The final creations will be displayed and sold at Autumn Food & Wine Sept. 5-7. Whether attending for a specific event or just traveling for fun, don’t miss out on the DETOURS, a month long free outdoor exhibit featuring the works of 12 different artists on display throughout the Kings Beach area.

Remember to take a peek at the incredible talent at the local galleries dotting the shoreline and towns. For more information visit Tahoe North online.

Savory delights at Autumn Food & Wine Autumn Food & Wine Festival highlights The 29th Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival at Northstar California will pair epicurean adventures with Northern California’s finest in regional food and wine delicacies. Master chefs and winemakers invite foodies to enjoy three days of cooking seminars and demonstrations, culinary competitions, wine tastings and food-themed experiences from Sept. 5 to Sept. 7 in The Village and on the mountain at Northstar, as well as in The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe.

“Autumn Food & Wine Festival at Northstar is a tradition that represents the best annual gathering of culinary talent, unique events and an atmosphere that celebrates food, wine, family and fun,” said Bill Rock, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Northstar California, in a press release.

As one of the Festival’s most iconic events, the Culinary Competition & Grand Tasting is scheduled for Sept. 7. Other highlights such as the Farm to Tahoe Dinner at Zephyr Lodge, Gourmet Marketplace Vendor Fair, Village Wine and Brew Walk, Blazing Pans Mountain Chef Cook Off, and 16th Annual Charbay Party continue to invite guests to delight in fine food and artisan wine, spirits and beer.

Additional events throughout the three-day event include Pedals & Pinots bike tour and tasting, Beer & Artisan Cheese Pairing and Winemaker for a Day seminars, Petra Winery Luncheon, and Take a Hike! guided hike and trailside tasting. (All events

Friday, Sept. 5 Art of the Cocktail | Kick off the festivities from 4 to 5 p.m. in The Living Room at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, where participants will journey to pre-prohibition days when cocktails were the highlight and beer, wine and other beverages were not in fashion. Art of the Cocktail will feature three bourbon, whiskey, vodka and gin cocktails paired with appetizers. $40 North Tahoe Arts Plein Air Reception | Enjoy light fare, wine and entertainment at the Gala Reception & Fundraising Event, as well the Plein Air exhibit preview and silent auction to benefits North Tahoe Arts at Petra from 4 to 6 p.m. $40 Farm to Tahoe Dinner | Northstar’s Chef Steve Anderson will masterfully prepare and present a dining experience highlighting fresh, sustainable and locally sourced produce from 6 to 9 p.m. in the

Zephyr Lodge at the summit. Guests are whisked to the multi-course plated dinner via gondola, with pairings of craft beer, wine and light beverages complemented by live music. $80

Saturday, Sept. 6 (All events at Village at Northstar unless otherwise noted) Gourmet Marketplace Vendor Fair | Sample some of the finest local and regional gourmet goodies at the open-air marketplace in The Village from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free Plein Air demo and sale | Enjoy a juried exhibit of plein air artists with works on display and for sale from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free Mozzarella Cheese Making | Chef Lara Ritchie will teach 25 guests how to create fresh Mozzarella cheese from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for ages 9 and older. $25 Girl Farm seminar | Representatives from Northern Nevada-based Girl Farm invites guests to learn about sustainable farming, the benefits of fresh-sourced ingredients, and techniques from 11 a.m. to noon. Free Guided Hike & Trailside Tasting | A professional trail guide will lead guests to explore breathtaking wilderness and identify the Lake Tahoe region’s native flora and fauna from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Trailside tasting stations along the route will offer craft beer paired with flavorful, creative recipes of classic trail morsels. All ability levels. $40 Village Wine & Brew Walk | Sip, shop and visit with friends at the casual afternoon soirée with featured wines from Napa and Sonoma, El Dorado and Lodi, Suisun Valley and the Foothills, Nevada City, the Central Coast and beyond from noon to 4 p.m. Beer aficionados may look forward to fresh, cold craft beers from Stella, Goose Island, Kona Brewery and more. $25 Kid’s Zone | Kids and families are invited to enjoy complimentary face painting, balloon sculptures, arts and crafts, and outdoor play at the Overlook Deck from noon to 4 p.m.

Winemaker Luncheon | Petra Wine Bar owner and wine connoisseur Kali Kopley and renowned winemaker John Anthony Truchard will host a three-course luncheon paired with award-winning wines from FARM Napa Valley from noon to 2 p.m. $60 Pedals & Pinots | Enjoy a scenic, guided bike tour from Northstar through the Martis Valley to Historic Downtown Truckee from noon to 4 p.m. with a delightful tasting of Pinots at The Pour House and Uncorked Wine Bar, then to PJ’s Bar & Grill at Gray’s Crossing for light appetizers paired with wine and an outdoor reprieve. Shuttle rides back to Northstar. $55 Seafood cooking demo | Sean Conry, executive chef of Longboards Bar & Grill in Graeagle, will embrace seafood with a trio of autumn plates that showcase fresh, seasonal produce from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. Chef Conry will demonstrate how to meld harvest-fresh ingredients into mouth-watering dishes at home. Free Beer and Artisan Cheese Pairing | Enjoy craft beers paired with artisan cheeses at Tavern 6330’ from 1 to 2:15 p.m. with Nyna Weatherson, as well as how to create a cheeseboard selection. $35 Grilling demo | Guests will learn techniques for successful marinating and brining that lead to flavorbursting dishes from Chef Jason Gronlund from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. Free

Winemaker for a Day | Learn the intricacies of blending various wines as they create his or her own keepsake bottle of wine from 2 to 4 p.m. with wine expert Phil McKenney at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe. Guests will taste single-varietal wines such as cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc before blending in a classroom-style format. Participants experiment with different proportions, discuss the characteristics of each grape, as well as cork and label his or her wines. $80 15 Minute Meals demo | Chef Lara Ritchie will show even the busiest of people how to create amazing, flavorful dishes at home in no more than 15 minutes from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m. Free Why You Like What You Like | Get ready for a humorous, enlightening wine and food tasting seminar and book signing with Chef Tim Hanni from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Experience interactions between wine and food and learn flavor-balancing techniques that will ensure that a favorite wine tastes great with a favorite dish. $40 Dessert demo | Chef Daniel Carter will share a Fall Harvest Dessert demonstration from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Free Blazing Pans Mountain Chef Cook Off | 2013 Blazing Pans Champion Chef Mark Estee of the renowned Campo Restaurant faces off with the talented and wildly popular Chef Wyatt Dufresne of PlumpJack Café from 4:30 to 6 p.m. These two fearless competitors will prepare four courses of gourmet dishes in the hour-long battle featuring a secret ingredient that is revealed at the last second. The audience is encouraged to don costumes, noisemakers and air horns. $15 Spirits Tasting & Caviar 101 | 13th generation master distiller Marko Karakasevic of Charbay Distillery and Winery will showcase his hand crafted Charbay vodkas and Tequila Tapatio in tasting featuring the decadent caviars and natural flavored roes from Tsar Nicoulai Caviar Company from 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. Chef Jason Gronlund works his culinary magic with perfectly orchestrated hors d’oeuvres and small bites to pair with the spirits and cocktails. The seminar will start with Caviar 101 on how to prime one’s palate for tasting clear vodka and caviar. $75 Tahoe Long Table Harvest Dinner | Executive Chef Stanley Miller features a family-style, six-course dinner of a harvest menu that incorporates the freshest locally sourced, sustainable ingredients from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe. $85

Sunday, Sept. 7 Gourmet Marketplace Vendor Fair | Sample some of the finest local and regional gourmet goodies at the open-air marketplace in The Village from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free Plein Air demo and sale | Enjoy a juried exhibit of plein air artists with works on display and for sale from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free Bubbles Tasting Flight | Relax at Petra and enjoy a flight featuring three sparkling wines all day starting at 11 a.m. $12 Culinary Competition & Grand Tasting | Featuring more than 25 top chefs in the region paired with 25 premium wines, sprits and brews in a formally judged food and wine pairing competition from 1 to 4 p.m. Each chef’s dish is paired with a varietal and vintage from the winery or brewery of his or her choice. Chefs vie for top honors including Best Marriage of Food and Wine/Beverage, Best Food

and the coveted People’s Choice awards. The presentations are judged by a panel of food and wine industry experts, after which the pairings are opened for ticketholders to enjoy $75 advance, $95 at the event.

Festival tickets Tickets may be purchased for single or multiple events, and advance registration is required for most of the special events and cooking classes as space is limited.

The 3-Day Festival Experience package beckons unabashed foodies to indulge during Friday’s Farm to Tahoe Dinner at Zephyr Lodge, Saturday’s Brew & Wine Walk and Blazing Pans Mountain Chef Cook-Off, and Sunday’s pièce de résistance – the Grand Tasting and Culinary Competition.

Additional options, such as tickets to Farm to Tahoe Dinner at Zephyr Lodge or Art of the Cocktail at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe are offered, as well as individual tickets to all events hosted throughout the Festival. Lodging deals to Northstar also are available at northstarcalifornia.com.

Nevada Proud: Reno mom competing in Ironman World Championship this fall Published: 7/25 5:25 pm

RENO, Nev. (MyNews4.com & KRNV) -- Only a few athletes qualify for the Ironman World Championship every year, but one local mom is beating the odds.

About three weeks ago, Reno resident Liz Lyles took second place for women’s professional at the Ironman European Championship in Germany. Now her next big challenge is conquering the 140.6 mile journey at the World Championship in Hawaii this October. "It was kind of like a dream come true, my best time, a new PR (personal record),” said Lyles.

36-year-old Lyles is not your ordinary Reno mom. She recently came home with a silver medal from Ironman Frankfurt. “That gave me enough points that I will for sure be in Kona this year,” said Lyles.

It was her second Frankfurt race, and this year she came from behind to take second place. “And so I steadily just picked off girls, one by one. Running in third, second place was a minute up with two miles ago, and it was so exciting to pass her."

Swimming 2.4 miles, then biking 112, and finishing it off running 26.2 miles is an accomplishment on its own. But for Lyles, finishing under 9 hours is a dream come true. “You know, once you cross the finish line, the excitement is there, nothings better."

This fall, Lyles will be one of 35 professional women from around the world competing for the Ironman World Championship title. It's her second time taking on the Kona race professionally. “Intimating because it is the best 35 women in the world and so you know, every name on that start list is definitely a contender, amazing athlete, dedicate their whole lives to perform well at the world stage."

Lyles has finished several half and full distance Ironman competitions, but she's only been racing professionally for two years. “I was an age grouper and then I had kids and took some time off and just mostly ran because it was easier to just get in a quick run. And then my husband kind of pushed me to get back at it and go for it, before I got too old to compete, thinking I might have some regrets."

Lyles moved to Reno in 2002. She has two young kids and schedules her constant training around her family. She says being a mom and a professional athlete is pretty hectic, but worth it. “You know, I just enjoy working out and training so much, it makes me so much happier, that fulfills me, and then I can be with the kids and be you know, a happy, good mom to them."

And Lyles said she uses Ironman as a metaphor for life in general. “You'll have a lot of struggles and you’ll have your ups and downs throughout the day, but really you know crossing the finish line, you just need determination that you’ll get there, so it can kind of get you through anything.”

Lyles will be competing in Lake Tahoe's first half Ironman in September to build strength for the World Championship.

She hopes to place in the top 10 or better in Kona. News 4 wishes her good luck!

New Form of Yoga Rising to the Surface of Lake Tahoe Updated: Wed 8:22 AM, Sep 03, 2014

HOMEWOOD, CA - If you're looking for a peaceful and serene backdrop for doing yoga, Lake Tahoe is about as good as it gets. But not yoga in a nice air conditioned studio. Imagine doing it out on the lake on top of a paddle board.

Jenna Minnes has been practicing yoga consistently for about 13 years. After teaching for about a year she decided to push the envelope a bit by fusing together two things that she's passionate about.

"I love yoga. I love paddle boarding and being on the water. So I thought I'd experience together," she says.

It's become pretty popular in the areas surrounding San Francisco, but classes and around Tahoe are pretty limited.

the two

in northern Nevada

"Just being out of the studio and in the elements that you can't control is a huge part of yoga as far as keeping your cool and staying balanced. You can't control if a boat comes by or a gust of wind comes through," says Minnes.

You definitely have to be more focused on your movements than you would in a studio because if you lose concentration you'll be going for a nice swim. Being on a paddle board will test you and let you know where you need improvement .

"You can't muscle through things on a board. You can't fling yourself from here to there. You have to be really aware of your breath. It's very revealing as far as where you are imbalanced or where you might be physically weak," says Minnes.

Minnes says you can't get frustrated if it takes a while to get the hang of it. It's all part of the process, and you know what they say, practice makes perfect.

"You have to stick with it a little bit to feel the benefits

of the balance and everything," she says.

Classes are offered just outside the West Shore Cafe and a few other areas around Lake Tahoe. If you'd like more information about stand-up paddle board yoga there is a link on this website in the Hot Topics section.

Tahoe-Truckee road closures on tap for 2014 Ironman 9/2/2014

TAHOE CITY, Calif. — While parking and bus alternatives are still being ironed out, road closures and detours have been finalized for the second annual Ironman Lake Tahoe.

On Sunday, Sept. 21, more than 2,500 athletes will attempt to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run 26.2 miles in succession throughout the North Shore/Truckee region.

The second annual event is expected to garner roughly 8,000 to 10,000 spectators, said Andy Chapman, chief marketing officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association.

Therefore, the following major roadways will be impacted to ensure spectator and athlete safety: ROAD CLOSURES Highway 28 eastbound and westbound, Fox Street to Highway 267 in Kings Beach: 5:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Highway 89 north, Fairway Drive in Tahoe City to Squaw Valley Road: 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Highway 267 southbound, Northstar Drive to Kingswood/Commonwealth Drive in Kings Beach: 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Brockway Road/Soaring Way, closed at Highway 267: 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

West River Street westbound, closed at McIver Crossing: 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Highway 89/I-80 eastbound off-ramp: 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Highway 89/I-80 westbound on-ramp: 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Local roadways on the North Shore and in Truckee will also experience impacts. For a complete list of locations and times, view the online 2014 Ironman Traffic Impact Guide.

DETOURS From Kings Beach, Northstar or Highway 267 to Truckee: Take Highway 267 north to Interstate 80 east to exit 190/Overland Trail, then I-80 west to exit 186/Central Truckee.

From Kings Beach, Northstar, Highway 267 or I-80 to Squaw Valley or Lake Tahoe: Take Highway 267 north to I-80 east to exit 190/Overland Trail, then I-80 west to exit 185/Highway 89 south.

Ironman 70.3 will also take place Sept. 21, and will have no additional impacts to road travel, Chapman said.

To help people get around on race day, shuttles providing round trips from Squaw Valley to Kings Beach will run for the swim start, and TART will run, but on a modified scheduled, he said. Both schedules are in the process of being finalized.

Parking alternatives in Kings Beach are also being worked on and yet to be finalized, Chapman said.

North Lake Tahoe Chamber Breakfast Addresses ADA Compliance

Tuesday, September 2, 2014 - 7:00am North Lake Tahoe Chamber hosts 60-minute breakfast buffet and meeting led by Jim Porter of Porter-Simon about ADA compliance titled “It’s the Right Thing To Do… And You Won’t Get Sued” Learn what you and your business need to know about ADA laws, regulations, updates and especially parking requirements and signage.

Who: Jim Porter, Porter-Simon Johnny Goetz, Town of Truckee Chief Building Official Ravn Reese Whitington, Porter-Simon Bruce Cornell and his real life experiences Ticket Info: $15 - cash, credit, debit and check payments accepted at door Location:

Granlibakken Resort 725 Granlibakken Rd, Tahoe City, CA

Tahoe Fall Fun Ten reasons to head to Tahoe now.

9/1/2014 BY VALERY JORGENSEN

Hit a Food Fest Head up to Northstar for the Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival September 5–7. The festival includes a host of events featuring food, wine, beer, and spirits. There is even a food hike, where participants venture out on a guided hike that includes trailside food tastings. Also, don't miss the kid zone, with face painting, balloon sculptures, and arts and crafts. gotahoenorth.com/events/autumn-food-and-winefestival.

Find your Inner German Enjoy traditional Bavarian music, folk dancers, bratwursts, beer, and more at Oktoberfest at Squaw Valley Resort on September 27. Tickets are $10. squaw.com/things-to-do/events-calendar/oktoberfest.

Enjoy the Perfect Cocktail Head to the Ritz-Carlton’s Art of the Cocktail. Offered Saturday evenings throughout the fall, this entertaining and educational class costs $40 and takes participants back in time to pre-prohibition days. The best part is getting to taste the craft cocktails paired with tasty appetizers. northstarcalifornia.com/info/calendar/calendarevent.art-of-cocktail.

Take a Sunset Cruise Watch the sun set below the mountains from the Sierra Cloud Catamaran. The cruise includes live music with drinks and light hors d’oeuvres. The boat launches from the Hyatt Beach pier behind the Lone Eagle Grille on Friday and Saturday nights. awsincline.com/sierra-cloud-catamaran-lake-tahoe.

Drink Up Ride up to High Camp at Squaw Valley to embark on a drinking adventure at the Terrace Restaurant and Bar. The breathtaking panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe, paired with delicious drinks and savory food, make it the perfect spot to end the day. squaw.com/things-to-do/dining/on-mountain#content_title.

Learn California History The Thunderbird Lodge, or Lake Tahoe’s Castle in the Sky, is a great spot to spend a fall afternoon. Guided tours take visitors through the stone mansion and share the history of one of California’s original one-percenters, George Whittell, Jr. In the boathouse resides his famous wooden speedboat, Thunderbird, which was built in 1939. Along the tour, you can revel in the elegant views of Lake Tahoe, gardens, lagoons, waterfalls, and various fountains. thunderbirdtahoe.org/tours.

Try Paddle Boarding While the weather is still warm, head out on the lake on a stand up paddle board. You’ll find rental locations all around the lake, but our favorite is at the Hyatt in Incline because of the deluxe beachside restaurant, the Lone Eagle Grille. Just don’t fall off: The water is cold! laketahoe.hyatt.com/en/hotel/activities.html.

Take a Brewery Break Head to Tahoe Mountain Brewing Co. for craft-brewed beer. The Truckee tasting room opened this year in an industrial park, but with 15 taps, it’s worth the trip. Growlers are also available. 10990 Industrial Way, Truckee, (530) 587-3409. tahoebrewing.com.

View Fall Colors With the weather still nice and the leaves changing into beautiful colors, this is a great time to hike in the Sierra Nevada’s. Mount Tallac is a perfect place to enjoy fall colors, with incredible views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountain range. The trail is nearly five miles to the peak and takes about six hours round-trip. Marlette Lake, with stands of aspens, turns a shimmering gold, making it another great place for leafpeeping. The hike takes about half a day. everytrail.com/guide/mount-tallac-laketahoe/map.

Dine on the Lake Savor a meal on the shore of Lake Tahoe. One of Tahoe’s longtime favorites, Christy Hill, offers panoramic views and great sunsets paired with delicious cuisine. The intimate setting makes it the perfect place for date night. christyhill.com/lake-viewdining.

North Lake Tahoe Plein Air Open to host ‘Meet the Artist’ reception 8/28/2014 North Tahoe Arts will presents the 2014 North Lake Tahoe Plein Air Open “Meet the Artist” reception on Friday, Sept. 5, in conjunction with the Lake Tahoe Annual Autumn Food and Wine Festival at Northstar.

Thirty artists will travel from near and far to paint on-location throughout the North Lake Tahoe region from Sept. 2-5.

The crowning “Meet the Artist” event will take place 4-6 p.m. at Petra Wine Bar in the Northstar Village. Event judges will award “Best of Show,” first, second and third-place winners. This event will feature winemaker Will Henry of Lumen Wines. Light fare will be served.

Competition artwork will be available for early sale. A silent auction of artist donated pieces will be on display as well with proceeds supporting North Tahoe Arts.

Remaining artwork will be on display and for sale with painting demonstrations and “People’s Choice” voting throughout the 29th Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival at the Village at Northstar, Sept. 6-7.

Fifteen participating artists will show other works in a “Plein Air Everywhere” exhibit at the North Tahoe Arts Center galleries located at 380 N. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City.

Tickets for the “Meet the Artist” Reception are $40 per person and may be purchased at www.northtahoearts.com or by calling 530-581-2787.

1/2014

Follow signs for ‘DETOURS’ public art in Kings Beach 8/21/2014 The public is invited to “DETOURS” Kings Beach 2014, an outdoor art exhibition on display throughout Kings Beach through Sept. 30.

The exhibition will feature 11 site-specific public art pieces and will introduce Tahoe Public Art, which is kicking off a fund raising effort to enhance North Lake Tahoe with permanent and temporary public art.

The DETOURS exhibition includes artists from the North Lake Tahoe/Truckee area, and two artists coming from Southern California. The site-specific art pieces will celebrate Lake Tahoe, with each piece telling a story that interprets the site on which it is located. Visitors will leave their cars to embark upon a free, family-friendly “art treasure hunt” with the help of free walking maps available 24/7 on www.northtahoearts.com, www.northtahoebusiness.org, and the DETOURS facebook page.

Maps will also be available at the North Lake Tahoe Visitors’ Centers in Tahoe City and Kings Beach and near each art installation.

“As an artist working in site-specific installation for the last 15 years, I am excited to share this genre of art with the public,” said Detour’s organizer and artist Jane Jenny. “The Detours exhibition is a healthy activity for all ages … a self-guided walking tour of extraordinary artwork.”

DETOURS Kings Beach 2014 is sponsored by the Jenny Family, Meyer Construction, the Miller Family, Mountain Forge, North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, NSM Construction, Plumas Bank, The Prieston Family, Tahoe City Dental Group, Tahoe Tech Group, Trudy & Rolf Lesem, and Village Interiors of Incline Village.

Tahoe Public Art is a collaborative effort of North Tahoe Arts (NTA) and North Tahoe Business Association (NTBA), working with the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation (TTCF) with support from the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association (NLTRA). For more information or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit www.TahoePublicArt.org.

North Tahoe Arts is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports the arts in the TruckeeTahoe region through exposure, education, and participation. NTA seeks to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike by providing quality visual art programs and classes and hosting exhibits that showcase local talent. For more information visit www.NorthTahoeArts.com.

Eating News & Notes: Italian Festival meatball contest Johnathan L. Wright, RGJ11:07 a.m. PDT August 27, 2014

Food & Drink and Eldorado Resort Casino invite people to enter the meatball contest celebrating the Great Italian Festival running Oct. 11-12 in downtown Reno. Submit full name, city and recipe to Johnathan L. Wright at jwright@rgj.com. Recipe must be in standard cookbook format and contain all ingredient amounts, cooking temperatures and times, and yield. Entry deadline is 5 p.m. Sept. 18.

The top three entrants will cook their meatballs at home and bring them to the Eldorado for the culinary judges. Winner receives a night in a player's spa suite, two show tickets, dinner for two in the festival's Italian Buffet and an Italian-themed gift basket. Second and third place each receive two tickets to the buffet.

Festival details: www.eldoradoreno.com, then cursor over Entertainment and Events tab and click on the festival link.

'LAKE TAHOE AUTUMN FOOD & WINE' The 29th annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival runs from Sept. 5-7 at the Village at Northstar in Northstar California Resort, 5001 Northstar Drive, Truckee, and nearby locations. The event features cooking demonstrations, tastings, gourmet market, lunches and dinners, chefs cook-off, and Culinary Competition and Grand Tasting.

Tickets/details: www.northstarcalifornia.com.

Wednesday, August 27, 2014, by Megan Barber

TAHOE BUZZ

North Lake Tahoe wants you to know that fall is an epic time to play at the lake, and they've got a fancy new ebook to prove it. The glossy spread includes tips on SUP Yoga, disc golf, hiking, and even the slightly bizarre but oh-so-cool sport of aerial fabrics. There are also insider tips on fun mountain biking and road biking routes, so do take a look. [NBC Bay Area]

Where to Work off that Wine

BY CHRISTINA ORLOVSKY PAGE Published: 2014.08.26 05:10 PM

After the wine has stopped flowing, you may want to concentrate on another flow. In Lake Tahoe, a high-flying form of yoga puts upward movement in your downward dog. Aerial yoga, courtesy of Tahoe Flow Arts Studio in Tahoe Vista, one of the region’s newest “human-powered activities,” combines acrobatics, dance, and the exhilaration of height with core conditioning and creativity. Cirque-loving participants can tap into performance art with juggling, hip-hop, and hula-hooping classes, and can even take their skills outside the studio and onto the sand. tahoeflowartsstudio.com

7 Best Spots for Beginners to Learn Stand-Up Paddling August 26, 2014 by Jill K. Robinson

The fastest-growing water sport in the world, stand-up paddling (also known as SUP) is an easy sport to learn, despite looking like you need to be a master of balance to even think about it.

Sure, balance is an important element, but if you can walk down the street without falling over, you’ll usually be fine. Want to learn the basics on your next vacation? Here are the best places to try it out: Kauai, HI With a varied coastline, plus inland jungle rivers, Kauai is a great place to start out with SUP. One of the best spots for beginners here is the Wailua River, in the middle of Kauai’s eastern coast. Protection from surf and wind means you can focus on your own balance without worrying about other elements trying to throw you off the board. That’s when everything seems to shift into island time. Take a lesson or rent a board from Kayak Kauai.

Lake Tahoe, CA With more than 72 miles of shoreline, including sandy beaches and rocky inlets, Lake Tahoe is ideal for visitors to explore from the water on stand-up paddleboards. Online maps offered by the Lake Tahoe Water Trail Association break the 72-mile shoreline into seven segments — perfect for day trips. Rental opportunities abound, and public agencies in California and Nevada ensure good launching spots. Get your south shore rental from South Tahoe Standup Paddle, try SUP Yoga with Balance Bodyworks, or go to camp with SUP with Nicole.

Half Moon Bay, CA Half Moon Bay may be home to big wave surf spot Mavericks, but you can stay safe with a SUP session in Pillar Point Harbor , protected from the surf and ocean surge. Paddle as fast or as slow as you like to take in the scenery and local wildlife — think: California sea lions, harbor sealsm and an ever-changing list of migrating birds — while staying safely within the harbor boundaries. Rent a board from Half Moon Bay Kayak Company or Mavericks Surf Shop. (Full disclosure: Our writer’s husband is an owner at Half Moon Bay Kayak Company, but we promise that’s not the only reason she loves it!)

Yampa River, CO The Yampa River begins in the headwaters of the White River National Forest and continues on to the Utah border, where it meets up with the Green River. Catch it flowing through the heart of Steamboat Springs for a river stand-up paddle session, involving an inflatable board. The best way to learn how to SUP on a river is with a lesson, where you’ll get the down-low on handling

small rapids and the nature of changing water. We suggest taking your lesson with Steamboat Paddleboard Adventures.

Black Canyon, AZ The Colorado River’s Black Canyon is a 600-foot-deep cleft in the basalt of Nevada and Arizona’s desert. The jaw-dropping beauty of the canyon and its jewel-toned water should be experienced at leisure — always a good reason for a camping trip. See how easy SUP camping is with a day trip or overnight with Try Stand Up. Learn the ropes, and you may soon find that you’re planning overnight river excursions close to home.

Key Largo, FL There are so many areas in the Florida Keys to paddle that it can seem overwhelming as a SUP destination. Close to Key Largo, Paddle the Florida Keys offers a variety of routes for SUP renters to test their skills. Also offered are eco-tours of the Florida Bay and Key Largo Region.

Want to have a bro-tastic day on the water? The “party rental” boards fit from four to eight people. (Pro tip: We think paddling your own board is actually more fun.)

New York CIty, NY Stay with me here. Even in New York, it’s possible for stand-up paddlers to get out on the water, and there’s plenty for you to choose from — whether you’re into SUP basics, yoga, boot camp, race training, or romantic twilight paddles. Tourists and locals alike get great views while being out on the water with Manhattan Kayak Company. Remember to bring a change of clothes, so you can go out afterward.

- See more at: http://blog.shermanstravel.com/2014/08/26/7-best-spots-for-beginners-to-learn-standup-paddling/#sthash.kRLAHMc2.dpuf

A North Lake Tahoe Guide to Human-Powered Sports #infographic 8/21/2014 North Tahoe is an outdoor lovers paradise offering year round sporting options perfect for everyone from newbies to professionals. Feel free to ask visitors or locals why they love the area and human powered sports are sure to be in their answers and there are plenty of facts to back it up. From being the second largest Alpine lake in the world to offering the nation's highest density of downhill ski resorts, options for adventurers are nearly endless. Take a look at the infographic to choose what adventure is right for you. For more information visit gotahoenorth.

Business announcements for North Lake Tahoe and Truckee 8/21/2014 Content for briefs is selected from e-mail submissions to Community Editor Amy Edgett at aedgett@sierrasun.com.

Broadband assessment effort The Tahoe Prosperity Center (TPC), in an effort to facilitate the expansion of high speed Internet service to the Lake Tahoe Basin, Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley, announced the launch of its internet speed test and survey.

Anyone living, working or visiting Lake Tahoe, Alpine Meadows or Squaw Valley is encouraged to participate in the speed test and short survey with their current Internet service.

This data will help TPC assess gaps in high-speed internet service, determine priority areas for broadband upgrades or expansion and provide a picture of available service.

Participants will be entered into a drawing for an iPad mini.

Go to http://tahoeprosperity.org/speed/ to take the survey and speed test and find out more about the Connected Tahoe project. The speed test will be available until the end of October.

For more information about the Tahoe Prosperity Center, go to http://tahoeprosperity.org.

Eddie Bauer features Tahoe on iPhone app Eddie Bauer announced the release of its free iPhone app, Eddie Bauer Adventure Guide, bringing more than 10,000 unique U.S. locations across nine different activities right to the fingertips of outdoor enthusiasts. “Inspiring and enabling people to get outside and live their adventure is what we do as a brand,� says Mike Egeck, Chief Executive Officer of Eddie Bauer. Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding areas are some of the top destinations featured.

The app was designed to serve as the ultimate resource for planning outdoor adventures. By utilizing the intuitive Guide Me interface, users will instantly receive tailored results after

selecting unique criteria including the outdoor activity, location, personal skill, child and pet friendliness and ADA accessibility.

The app features destinations to enjoy hiking, backpacking, trail running, mountain biking, stand-up paddling, kayaking/canoeing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and alpine skiing.

New locations, activities and functionality will be added in future releases.

The Eddie Bauer Adventure Guide is available for iPhone only. For more information visit www.eddiebauer.com/adventureapp.

Kings Beach Open for Business Contest in full swing Part of the KBCCIP Open for Business Marketing Campaign North Tahoe Business Association is a contest designed to draw patrons into businesses during construction. The “We’re Open, You Win” contest will run through Sept. 17 and offers Kings Beach residents and visitors a chance to win $500 cash plus weekly prize packages. Enter to win the contest at 35 NTBA member restaurants, retailers and recreation outlets. Visit www.northtahoebusiness.org for more information and participating venues.

For more information about the Open for Business Marketing Campaign or Contest, email joy@northtahoebusiness.org.

Peak Your Adventure #PeakYourAdventure this summer around the mountains of North Lake Tahoe. While you’re out enjoying North Lake Tahoe’s numerous activities, restaurants, shops, and incredible scenic views, take a photo — of you, your friends/family, the view, the food, event, whatever — with the hashtag #PeakYourAdventure on Twitter or Instagram to be entered to win a summer adventure package valued at $300. Visit www.facebook.com/LakeTahoeNorth.

North Tahoe's Human-Powered Sports Tips Paddleboarding, mountain biking, and yoga get the love in a new photo-filled ebook.

By Alysia Gray Painter | Thursday, Aug 21, 2014

THERE WAS A DAY... not too long ago when every outdoor activity we engaged was humanpowered. Maybe not fully human-powered, across the spectrum -- dog-sledding and horseback riding and other animal-person pursuits, of course, require effort beyond our own -- but the vroom-vroom of vehicles and battery-operated anythings was still a ways in the future. And while it can be fun to rumble on a wheeler over bumps and humps, putting our own back into an under-the-sun enterprise is a pleasure that has been around for as long as humans have engaged in play. (Which is, of course, has been around for an impressivly long time.) To help us out with connecting to those human-powered sports options, as they go down around North Lake Tahoe, there is a fresh ebook detailing fresh-air'd go-outs. There are some eight options in all, starting with...

SUP YOGA: If you're deep into your yoga practice and you have a taste for paddleboarding, you likely know about this yoga-paddleboard hybrid. The word "balancing" is a term much used in both pursuits, and it couldn't be more apt here; balance is key to not getting wet (or too wet, rather). Some local pointers are given, like where to find SUP classes -- Mountain Lotus Yoga offers 'em -- and where to find that perfectly pretty shoreline for blissing out.

AS FOR THE OTHER SEVEN SPORTS? Ebooky tips, local shops, and suggested routes are shared for the full range of mountain biking, road biking, aerial fabrics, paddleboarding, disc golf, and hiking. Ready to put your back and shoulders and some sweat into it? Start here.

Outdoor Weekend Getaway in Lake Tahoe 8/21/2014 

Friday

1Get your itinerary started on a merry (and musical) note at the River Grill Tahoe, a festive outdoor restaurant that serves up California-centric dishes and an impressive wine list, as well as live music. Toast to the weekend amidst twinkling lights and candles on table tops, with views of the Truckee River in the backdrop. Arrive by 5 pm to take advantage of happy hour prices on drinks and appetizers.

2For dessert, indulge sweet-toothed travelers with a stop at Batch Cupcakery, at The Village at Squaw Valley, where daily rotating confections include such flavors as the Olympian (perfect for chocoholics) and Tahoe Toffee (the shop closes at 8 pm).

3Enjoy an adults-only, after-dinner drinks at Uncorked, Squaw Village's quaint wine bar.

No wine snob attitudes here, just a well-edited selection of mostly California vintages, as well as flight tastings. The bar is also great for pre-dinner appetizers and drinks. 

Saturday

1Fuel up for the day's activities at local favorite Fire Sign Café, near Tahoe City. This local favorite has all the essentials of a great brunch spot: friendly service, a laid-back atmosphere, affordable prices and hearty, delicious fare (the kielbasa-sausage scramble and the gouda omelette are two popular choices; there are also great vegetarian options).

The wait on weekends is worth it.

2Take a casual bike ride along the 8-mile lakeside path that runs from Tahoe City to Squaw Valley. The trail is ideal for children and newbie riders, with no cars (there are also several shorter rides nearby.) Bike rental shops abound in the area, but one that's been around for decades is Olympic Bike Shop. Another option for outdoor adventure: Jump on the paddleboarding craze with an afternoon lesson with Tahoe Paddle, so you can tool around the cobalt waters of the spectacular lake.

3Enjoy scenic natural beauty and wildlife at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center, located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe and at the hub of four self-guided trails in the area. Take the Rainbow Trail a quarter mile to see the remarkable Stream Profile Chamber, which

allows visitors to see a diverted section of Taylor Creek through a panel of aquarium-like windows and a diorama that illustrates life above and below the water.

4Lunch with the locals at Cornice Cantina, which, in addition to its reputation as a popular après-ski and dance spot at The Village at Squaw Valley, makes some mean Mexican dishes. Grab a spot on its sunny deck and tuck into hearty burrito bowls and nachos, which are grande enough to share.

5Wind down at the High Camp Pool & Hot Tub, located at the top of the 8,200-foot High Camp at the Village. The trip up via the Aerial Tram offers spectacular views of the surrounding Sierra Mountains; once you're there, frolic in the palatial free-form pool, or take a soak in the 25-foot-diameter hot tub. Tickets for the tram and pool combo are $38 for adults ($32 for kids 13-18, $15 for under 12 years), but if you haven't had enough exercise yet, you can hike to the top and reduce prices by more than half.

6Dig into old-school Italian favorites in a relaxed, warm atmosphere at Lanza's, located on the north shore of the lake. Walking into the homey restaurant, a Tahoe institution, feels more like the dining room of an Italian friend who's a master in the kitchen. Choose from classic dishes like hearty spaghetti and meatballs and baked lasagna, along with homemade bread. 

Sunday

1Lounge over a leisurely brunch against views of the lake at the handsome Lone Eagle Grille, located at the Hyatt Regency in Incline Village. Afterward, take a stroll out on the pier and soak up the views.

2Rest tired muscles by lounging at beautiful Sand Harbor State Beach on the Lake Tahoe shore, just outside of Incline Village. This popular family spot has bathrooms, a snack bar, and fine sand perfect for building sandcastles. More adventurous trekkers can scale a lakeside boulder or two.

3For a final taste of Tahoe that's on the way home, stop by Truckee's favorite old-school diner, Jax Truckee. Choose from well-executed classics such as homemade chili and turkey melts, or opt for the signature All Day Addiction, a monster mix-up of fried eggs, hash browns, avocado, and mixed greens with basil pesto.

Register now for Ironman Lake Tahoe Triathlon 8/20/2014

This is one very difficult undertaking. The distances are daunting, the elevation can be a major challenge, and competition is strong.

On September 21, Squaw Valley will host the second annual Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon.

In addition to the 140.6 mile race, the inaugural Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe triathlon will take place concurrently with the Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon.

This will be the first time an Ironman 70.3 triathlon and Ironman triathlon will be held on the same day in the same venue in North America.

Lake Tahoe’s Ironman triathlon is arguably one of the most challenging races in the world. Not only are Lake Tahoe competitors racing at over 6,000 feet above sea level, they must also push through 8,000 feet of climbing during the 112-mile bike course, in addition to the 2.4-mile swim and 26.2-mile marathon race.

Both the Ironman Lake Tahoe and Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe triathlon courses will wind through TahoeCity, Truckee and Squaw Valley, with the race beginning on the pristine shores of Lake Tahoe. The Village at Squaw Valley will be the ultimate location for fans and spectators, hosting the transition between the bike course and the run, as well as the finish for both races.

Registration is currently open for both races. Ironman Lake Tahoe registration is $700; Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe registration is $275.

For more information, visit http://tinyurl.com/mrpzgo6

TahoeART Month: September Surprises Dance, photography, music, and other treats flutter by the big lake.

By Alysia Gray Painter Thursday, Aug 7, 2014

LIVELY TIMES BESIDE THE LAKE: When there's a large body of water that's considered to be one of the planet's most glorious spots -- let's just cut straight to the absolutely true, watertight statements here -- it can be challenging to turn your gaze from the water for any length of time. Oh, perhaps if you're a skier, and there are snowy slopes nearby, but all that shimmery blue expanse? Yep, it's captivating. But the rather wonderful thing about Lake Tahoe - we're talking about Lake Tahoe here, lest you were sitting in suspense -- is that its shores tend to be laden with lovely and mind-expanding and thought-challenging and heart-gladdening happenings. And if you arrive in September? Well, just multiply those happenings by two or three. That happens to be TahoeART Month around North Tahoe, which is the time of year a whole spring of cultural to-dos burble up and take flight (or, less poetically and more accurately, appear before your eyes in galleries and on paths near the lake). Wait strike that: It is plenty poetic, TahoeART Month, fanciful flight or not, and it is set to swan lakeside from Sept. 1 through 30. The only difficult part for you? Nope, it isn't tearing your attention away from the crystalline surface of the water. It's choosing what weekend to arrive and what to do.

ON THE SCHEDULE: Everything glitters, as one wants from an out-sized art month, but look to the plein air painting event near the start. Some thirty artists will put brush to canvas in an outdoor setting and then, voila, the paintings shall go on display. Call it very, very fresh art.

That's on from Sept. 2 through 7. An Autumn Food & Wine Festival falls over that weekend -that's the 6th and 7th -- and the Trails & Vistas guided art hikes trek on that Saturday and Sunday as well. Dance, tunes, and more high-elevation goodies of the most elevating sort await. Going to the lake for some early fall action? Love on some quality art, too.

Eating News & Notes: Classes ahead at Wedge Cheese Shop Johnathan L. Wright, RGJ2:14 p.m. PDT August 20, 2014

In the weeks ahead, classes at Wedge Cheese Shop, 16 Saint Lawrence Ave.,www.wedgecheeseshop.com, 775-737-4078, include: • 6 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 25, Spotlight on Sheep Cheeses, $40; • 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8, Cheese Basics, $40; and • 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 22, Meat Me at Wedge charcuterie, $40.

LAKE TAHOE AUTUMN FOOD AND WINE The 29th annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival runs from Sept. 5-7 at the Village at Northstar in the Northstar California Resort, 5001 Northstar Drive, Truckee, and nearby locations. The event features cooking demonstrations, tastings, gourmet market, lunches and dinners, chefs cook-off, and Sept. 7 Culinary Competition and Grand Tasting.

Details/tickets: www.northstarcalifornia.com.

PARTY AROUND THE GRILL'S FOUNTAIN Beginning at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 6, the Grill at Quail Corners, 6520 S. McCarran Blvd., is presenting Party Around the Big Fountain. Cost of $60, paid in advance, covers dinner, two drinks and live music. The event benefits Moms on the Run programs for local breast cancer patients. Tickets/details: 775-827-6262.

Tahoe's Top Food, Wine, and Nature Events This Fall

By Christina Nellemann on August 19, 2014 4:30 PM

While most people visit Lake Tahoe in the summer months, there's a little secret that locals know: Fall is the best time to head to the lake. Under the bright blue sky and among the golden leaves this fall head to these top eight food, wine, and hiking events: Sample the Sierra (August 31, 2014 | Bijou Community Park) The 5th Annual Sample the Sierra celebrates the best food, wine, and art in Sierra Nevada and El Dorado counties. From Tahoe's Riva Grill to Reno's Great Basin Brewing Company— and even the doughnuts from Rainbow Orchards in Camino—different types of farm food, award winning wine, and beers made within 100 miles of the lake will be featured. A bus tour of Apple Hill's gardens, farms, wineries and lunch from Smokey Ridge Charcuterie will be available for $65 per person.

29th Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival (September 5-7, 2014 | Village at Northstar) Three days of cooking seminars, demonstrations, competitions, wine tasting and a lot of eating will take place at the Northstar California resort near Truckee. The Festival includes the Art of the Cocktail in The Living Room at the Ritz-Carlton, a Farm to Tahoe Dinner at Northstar's Zephyr Lodge, the Gourmet Marketplace Vendor Fair, mozzarella making, a wine and brew walk in the Village, and the popular Pedals & Pinots bike tour through the Martis Valley.

Trails & Vistas Art Hikes (September 6-7, 2014 | Spooner Lake) The Trails & Vistas guided art hikes feature original performances by acclaimed musicians and work by visual artists at Spooner Lake in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. Attendees will hear live music and storytelling, see original art, and be wowed by dance movements while immersed in the splendor of the fresh Sierra mountain air along a magnificent aspen-lined trail. The cost for the event is $40 for adults and $15 for children.

Thunderbird Lodge Winemaker Dinner (September 14, 2014 | Thunderbird Lodge) The beautiful Thunderbird mansion on the East Shore of Lake Tahoe will be holding their last

Winemakers' Dinner this September. This is where you can really dress up. The elegant food and wine pairings will be presented by Ritz-Carlton Chef Stanley Miller and Armen Khachaturian of Ehlers Estate Wines, accompanied by a tour of the Thunderbird grounds and some killer views. The price of each dinner is $250 per person ($125 of which is a charitable contribution).

Edible Pedal 100 (September 21, 2014 | Bowers Mansion State Park) This is the ultimate way to eat and still get some exercise. The Edible Pedal 100 features three races in one: a leisurely 10-mile route through Washoe Valley, a 50-mile loop into Carson City and Genoa, or a challenging 150k up Kingsbury Grade into Lake Tahoe. No matter which one you choose, you will be able to savor local food and drink from local farms along with Nature’s Bakery, New Belgium Brewing, Sierra Kombucha, Common Cider, and Silver Peak Brewery.

94th Annual Candy Dance (September 27-28, 2014 | Genoa, Nevada) Work off some chocolate samplings with some contra dancing. The small town of Genoa in the foothills near Carson City swells in size during the annual Candy Dance. Held since 1919, the dance and no-host bar will be held Saturday evening from 5:30 to 10pm at the Genoa Town Park on Nixon Street. Other special events include over 300 food and craft vendors, candy making, and an AYCE BBQ. Tickets are $28 for adults and $20 for children.

Squaw Valley Oktoberfest (September 27, 2014 | Squaw Valley Village) Squaw Valley will be celebrating everything German this September. Traditional brats, sauerkraut, Bavarian music and folk dancers, a benefit beer garden and games like the Stein Holding Competition will be available all afternoon. Funds support the Tahoe Truckee Lacrosse Association. $10 admission includes specialty glass and first beer, $5 for additional beer.

Harvest Beer Dinner (October 19, 2014 | Manzanita at The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe) The Harvest Beer Dinner at the beautiful Manzanita restaurant will feature a three�course dinner inspired by fall with select pairings of seasonal beers. The cost is $75 per person with select beer pairings. Reservations are required.

Lake Tahoe Wants to Teach Travelers How to Have Fun Outdoors Aug 15, 2014 2:00 pm

Navigating a new world of stand-up paddle boards and mountain bikes can be overwhelming for the uninitiated. It’s also big business for outdoors destinations like Lake Tahoe.

In an effort to inform, and perhaps inspire a visit, the resort town’s visitor bureau is launching a new marketing campaign that simplifies the process of participating in human-powered sports in North Lake Tahoe.

The campaign covers which trails are the best for mountain biking, what to wear to SUP Yoga, and who to trust when learning trapeze artistry.

Lake Tahoe shares the insights via an e-book and infographic as well as how-to videos and shorter 15-second highlight spots.

The campaign is being spread solely on social media with the biggest investment on Facebook followed by YouTube and Twitter.

The distribution is largely focused on the West Coast, specifically Southern California and the Bay Area, where 60 percent of its visitors come from.

Learning about a new bike trail or trapeze teacher wouldn’t be enough to inspire a trip across the country so it’s wise for Lake Tahoe to focus on the campaign on its nearby California markets.

How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in North Lake Tahoe

By Leilani Marie Labong on August 14, 2014 4:45 PM

Granite peaks streaked with hiking trails. Swimming holes big and small. Crisp mountain air.

Sunshine in spades. A short summer sojourn to Lake Tahoe is practically a ritual for Bay Area residents.

I’ll admit that my experience in Tahoe had been limited to the South Shore, with its looming casinos and one great fish taco joint (shout out to Freshies!), but I have recently expanded my repertoire north to Squaw Valley and its spectacular surrounding geography.

The Resort at Squaw Creek is one of those great family hotels reminiscent of the fictional Kellerman Resort in Dirty Dancing, right down to the corn hole games on the lawn, right down to the verdant golf course, right down to the s’mores around the fire pit, right down to the kids splashing in the pools, and sans, of course, the pornographic rumbas taking place in the staff quarters. Our fireplace suite was cozy, which, in this case is not—I repeat, not—code for “cramped.” Oversize club chairs near the large bay windows made comfortable front row seats to one dramatic, yet all-too-brief, thunderstorm. The fully equipped kitchenette came in handy when leftovers from our epic dinner at the resort’s signature restaurant, Six Peaks Grille, required refrigeration, as succulent beef tenderloin or fresh pasta tossed with morels and housemade hunter sausage often do. (Why bother with leftovers, you ask? Like good epicureans, we had the intuition to save room for the chocolate-dipped strawberries and champagne left for us during turndown.)

Tahoe practically begs for a Choose Your Own Adventure approach. For our token spin around the Lake, we decided to rent paddle boards from Tahoe City Kayak in the early morning hours, before the speed boats could wreak havoc and turn a gentle paddle into a surf expedition. Besides the frigid temperature of the water, there’s no reason to fear falling in. As someone once told me years ago, “If you fall in, don’t worry—just stand up.” (The water level is low due to last winter's disappointing snow fall.) The two decidedly un-wimpy hikes we did, Five Lakes in Alpine Valley and Shirley Canyon in Squaw, were mere minutes away by car from the resort. Word to the wise: Shirley Canyon isn’t as much a hike as it is a 3.5-mile vertical scramble up the side of a mountain, but if your knees are decent and you’re intrepid enough to brave a not-so-well-marked trail, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic valley vistas at your final destination, High Camp, located more than 1,300 feet above your starting point (never fear, you get to take the gondola

down for free). And when your badonk looks amazing in your jeans the next day, you’ll be doubly glad you took on the challenge.

I’m sure there’s some famous Shakespearean quote that would fittingly describe the midsummer's night we spent taking in a production of the Bard’s rom-com, "As You Like It," by the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. The open-air theater at Sand Harbor State Park, about an hour’s drive around the Lake from Squaw Valley, had been freshly sprinkled by menacing storm clouds, but during the three-hour production, nary a drop fell from the sky.

I’ll admit, I didn’t have high hopes for the evening, theatrically—or meteorologically—speaking.

I had seen a production of the same play staged by the Marin Shakespeare Company just weeks before and felt so fidgety and exhausted by the end that each stanza seemed to go on forever. Granted, the Marin production was a more classical version, and a pretty good one by all accounts. For purists, that might be just fine. But I prefer my iambic pentameter a little more palatable—that is, completely transformed into teenage angst (case in point, 10 Things I Hate About You, aka "The Taming of the Shrew"). But I digress.

The Tahoe Shakes production of "As You Like It," set at the turn of the 20th century, referenced modern culture in its own way—street-wise phrasing, for example, was seamlessly, humorously, integrated. A barbershop quartet was a clever take on a chorus. Feats of tap dancing were unexpected and added comic relief. Stylish and crisp and wholly entertaining, the show presented Shakespeare for the Now Generation. And only after the cast’s final bow, as the audience filed out of the theater to the beat of a Beatles medley, did the skies once again begin to drizzle.

Business announcements for North Lake Tahoe and Truckee 8/11/2014 Peak Your Adventure #PeakYourAdventure this summer around the mountains of North Lake Tahoe. While you’re out enjoying North Lake Tahoe’s numerous activities, restaurants, shops and incredible scenic views, take a photo — of you, your friends/family, the view, the food, event, whatever — with the hashtag #PeakYourAdventure on Twitter or Instagram to be entered to win a summer adventure package valued at $300. Visit www.facebook.com/LakeTahoeNorth.

Silicon Mountain to feature Eric Jennings Tahoe Silicon Mountain, a network of technology professionals who live and work in the TahoeTruckee area, will feature Eric Jennings and “A Complete Ecosystem for Building the Internet of Things.”

Until now, it’s been very difficult to connect the physical world to the web. Ever want to get an alert every time a chipmunk is in your vegetable garden, control your TV through the Internet, or drive a robot from 10,000 miles away? Eric will describe how these projects are possible with Pinoccio, a hardware, software and API, for the Internet of Things revolution.

Eric Jennings, CTO of Pinoccio, will explain Pinoccio’s hardware and software product and demonstrate how web and mobile developers can extend their expertise into the physical world.

Learn more about Pinoccio at: https://pinocc.io The meeting will be on Monday, Aug. 11, 6-8 p.m. at Pizza on the Hill, in Tahoe Donner at 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee. A $5 fee includes pizza and salad. Before and after the presentation, there will be time for networking.

This month’s event is sponsored by New Leaders and the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce.

You can find us on LinkedIn and Facebook and at TahoeSiliconMountain.com or sign up for email meeting announcements here: http://bit.ly/14XGofL. Sugar Bowl great place to wed

Sugar Bowl Resort received the “Best of Weddings” award by The Knot, the nation’s most visited wedding planning website.

Brides married at Sugar Bowl nominated the resort for The Knot award. Sugar Bowl was then selected from a group of nominees by The Knot wedding experts. Only 1 percent of The Knot’s wedding vendors won an award for 2014.

Sugar Bowl Resort’s wedding venue, a secluded mountain lodge with adjoining private lake offers a variety of wedding packages. Choose from a full-service wedding with on-site lodging at the Sugar Bowl’s historic lodge, and an option of a rehearsal dinner at a nearby private Lake Mary cabin, or throw a big wedding party in the Mt. Judah lodge.

The resort’s Sierra location features blooming wildflowers, a rolling creekside lawn, and openair firepits. Sugar Bowl also offers details such as a private chairlift ride to Mt. Disney for drinks and appetizers. In-house food and beverage to ceremony details is handled with the help of Sugar Bowl’s expert wedding staff.

To learn more about Sugar Bowl weddings, go to www.sugarbowl.com/weddings or http://weddings.sugarbowl.com.

Lake Tahoe sunglasses Squaw Valley and Oakley have joined forces again to create custom Lake Tahoe sunglasses designed for athletes including avid runners, bicyclists and triathletes, with $10 from each sale going directly to the Tahoe Fund, a nonprofit corporation working to restore and enhance Lake Tahoe. Choose from two, new one-of-kind Oakley sunglasses: the Oakley Radarlock Path Lake Tahoe and the Oakley Flak Jacket XLJ Lake Tahoe. They are designed with impact protection, optical superiority, and the iridium lenses feature a small, custom-etched outline of Lake Tahoe.

The sunglasses can be purchased at Parallel Mountain Sports or the Oakley store in The Village at Squaw Valley. Those who are not in the Tahoe area can also purchase a pair of the sunglasses by calling the Oakley Store directly at 530-452-4378.

Truckee receives top honor at Reno Tahoe AMA Ace Awards Designed to acknowledge marketing excellence within the community, the Reno Tahoe AMA (American Marketing Association) Ace Awards – celebrates the best marketing strategies of the year. Taking home the coveted Best in Social Media marketing award was the #TruckeeMoments hashtag campaign. Working on behalf of the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce, the campaign was developed and implemented by Out&About Marketing and launched in Spring 2014.

Originally created as a 30-day contest on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, the campaign inspired locals and visitors to share their favorite Truckee experiences. #TruckeeMoments took hold and transitioned to an ongoing social media movement.

More than 1,300 photos/videos were submitted. The Visit Truckee Facebook page grew “likes” by 513 percent; Instagram now has 603 followers (previously, there was no Truckee Instagram presence); and Twitter followers grew by 136 percent. Visits to Truckee.com website have increased 64 percent with mobile visits up 270 percent.

Contact the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce at 530-587-2757 or visit www.TruckeeChamber.com for business information; www.truckee.com for visitor information.

Kings Beach Open for Business Contest in full swing Part of the KBCCIP Open for Business Marketing Campaign North Tahoe Business Association is a contest designed to draw patrons into businesses during construction. The “We’re Open, You Win” contest will run through Sept. 17 and offers Kings Beach residents and visitors a chance to win $500 cash plus weekly prize packages. Enter to win the contest at 35 NTBA member restaurants, retailers and recreation outlets. Visit www.northtahoebusiness.org for more information and participating venues.

For more information about the Open for Business Marketing Campaign or Contest, email joy@northtahoebusiness.org.

Hospitality Super Star Program The North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association’s Super Star program was created to help motivate and encourage excellent customer service in North Lake Tahoe. Super Star cards are distributed to guests through Visitor Centers in Kings Beach and Tahoe City. If a guest experiences exceptional customer service from an employee in North Lake Tahoe they can hand the employee a Super Star Card.

Any employee receiving a Super Star Card can fill out their information, mail, scan and email or turn the card into our North Tahoe Visitor Center. Super Stars are eligible to win fabulous prizes.

A Super Star Employee of the Week will be recognized through social media platforms.

If you are interested in donating a prize contact Emily Sullivan-Detwiler, director of Visitor Services at Emily@GoTahoeNorth.com or 530-581-6900. The North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center is located at 100 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City. Visit www.GoTahoeNorth.com for a full list of events, lodging, dining and activities.

Free hospitality training The Hospitality Road Show is a 45-minute fun, high-energy training workshop intended for front-line personnel, managers and even owners who need a gentle reminder about the importance of customer service.

Representatives will visit your business or a location near you. Following this program your staff will be able to:

Better understand your customer and anticipate their needs Have increased knowledge about our community and Lake Tahoe Be able to enhance the guest experience Know why visitors are important to our economy Offered by the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association. To make a reservation call Kym Fabel at 530-581-6900 or email her at Kym@GoTahoeNorth.com.

The Best View for a Lake Tahoe Sunset August 10, 2014 By Meghan Leave a Comment Lake Tahoe is known for its stunning and breathtaking sunsets, with the blues, yellows and pinks reflecting off the crystal clear water and the gorgeous Sierra Nevadas. Viewing it from the beach is one thing; experiencing it from a kayak is another.

The guided Sunset Kayak Tour is a favorite among many, and Tahoe City Kayak & Paddleboard offers the best. This romantic adventure takes off from one of their two on-water launch sites in either Tahoe City or Sand Harbor.

With a quick instructional session and a dry bag for your camera or iPhone, you’re off cruising the calm waters. The Sunset Kayak Tour is full of beautiful photo opportunities, a favorite being Mt. Tallac. You also get a brief history lesson of the past, present and future of the Lake Tahoe area. For your amusement, ask your tour guide about the “Bear Scrathes” and log riding.

People often say what they enjoy most is the sound of the paddles slushing through the water and the connected feeling you have with Lake Tahoe. It’s the feeling of peace when you watch the brilliant sun dip behind the majestic peaks. That’s an experience you can’t catch on camera but you will remember forever.

After your tour, ask about their other great excursions like the Emerald Bay Kayak Tour, Full Moon Tour, and the Historic West Shore Tour. Their “Yoga on a Paddleboard” session is a fun experience too, and if you want to giving sailing a try, rent an Island Trimaram Sailboat. Your options to explore the beautiful waters of Lake Tahoe are endless. At Tahoe City Kayak & Paddleboard, they make it easy to get on the water! Live your dream and let them bring the paddles. tahoecitykayak.com

Summer fun in Lake Tahoe

By Dana Rebmann on Aug 09, 2014

It was the 1960 Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley that introduced the world to Lake Tahoe. Snow is big here. The more of it the better. From skiing to snowboarding to tubing; if it requires snow, there’s a stretch of mountainside here where you can do it on. But as winter comes and goes, so does the snow. Slopes turn from white to green.

Temperatures rise and sunny skies mean swimsuits trump snowsuits.

Walk on water The melting snow and rain feed Lake Tahoe. The 70-plus mile shoreline is home to a number of rustic mountain-side towns with cabins and lodges that boast million dollar views. You can sneak a peek from beaches and assorted points on land, but the best view is from the water. In the early morning Lake Tahoe typically looks more like a professionally cleaned pane of glass, than the second deepest lake in the United States. Early risers are rewarded with great conditions and the type of crowd control only an early morning alarm clock can provide.

There’s an assortment of non-motorized forms of transportation to choose from; kayaks, canoes or rowboats, but if you’ve never tried your luck or shall I say balance with stand-up paddle boarding, Lake Tahoe’s North Shore is the place to do it. Reserve a board and paddle from Watermans Landing and you can go from your car to the water in a matter of minutes. Owner Anik Wild and her crew are always happy to share tips to help you make the most of your time on the water.

But be warned, the minute you float away, you just might stop thinking about everything they told you. It’s easy to forget which side of the paddle is which when you’ve got picture perfect snowcapped mountains staring you down from a distance. Truth be told, as long you’re not in any hurry to get anywhere, it doesn’t really matter. It’s the type of sport anyone can do. The worst that can happen is you fall in.

High flying fun It’s about as close to being like Tarzan as you can get. Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park has 65 tree platforms that connect using an assortment of mid-air obstacles courses and zip lines. Unlike most zip line courses, you don’t have to stay with your group. Once you finish your safety training, you’re free to head any direction you like. There are beginning, intermediate and advanced courses. Snowboard mid-air or tip-toe your way across the tops of the largest set of wind chimes I’ve ever seen. Closed-toe shoes are a must and pants are more comfortable than shorts.

Starry skies The night sky has a certain sparkle at elevation. Most folks can find the Big Dipper when they look up, but that’s often where the knowledge and understanding ends. Tony Berendsen, owner of Tahoe Star Tours wants to change that.

Over hot chocolate and s’mores, he uses knowledge and poetry to provide an orientation of sorts to the sky. But the real ah-ha moment comes when you get that first peek through one of his three telescopes. You could see the rugged

surface of the moon, the spot we all colored on Jupiter as kids in science class or Saturn and its colorful rings. The view changes from night to night, but I think it would be hard to ever disappoint.

Most tours are held at the new Cosmoarium, located near the entrance to Northstar on the lower level of the Castle Peak parking area. Dress warmly. It may be summer, but temperatures drop at night in the Sierra’s so better to shed layers than shiver as you wish you had them.

Bike and hike Primo ski-in, ski-out locations have perks even when there’s no snow on the ground. As luck would have it, all those ski trails thaw and do double duty as hiking and mountain biking trails. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is situated midmountain at Northstar California ski resort, offering easy access to miles of trails at Northstar Resort. Chair lifts carry hikers, riders and bikes to higher elevation trailheads.

If you’re not the type to go exploring on your own, the Ritz-Carlton offers complimentary guided hikes for its guests weekend mornings, all summer long. The hike leaves from the hotel’s backyard and varies from day to day. The hardest part is getting up and ready to leave at 7.15am.

Set your alarm and just do it. There will be a chaise by the pool waiting if you want to take an afternoon nap. Just be up at 5pm, when the house-made marshmallows arrive at the fire pit to craft the perfect s’more.

Head into the Sierra for a trio of food and wine events

By Allen Pierleoni Published: Thursday, Aug. 7, 2014 - 9:37 am

Event organizers are planning on 3,000 foodies to bring their appetites to the 29th annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival, Sept. 5-7. Maybe now’s the time to get in line. The crowd will converge on the Village at Northstar California Resort and the neighboring Ritz Carlton Hotel, in the high country near Truckee, and at other venues around the lake. Some events are free, others are ticketed ($12 to $95).

The “menu” will include a gourmet-foods marketplace and vendor fair, cooking demonstrations and competitions, farm-to-table dinners, food-, beer- and wine-tastings, wine-cheese pairings, hands-on classes (mozzarella cheese-making, the art of cocktail creation), a bike tour combined with a pinot noir tasting, a mountain hike with trailside tastings, and more.

The highlight will be the Sept. 7 Culinary Competition & Grand Tasting, at which 25 restaurant chefs pair their best dishes with wines from 25 vintners, to be judged by a panel of industry professionals and, of course, the public.

If that’s not enough food and wine in an alpine setting, don’t forget Tahoe Food and Wine Week, Aug. 30 through Sept. 7. It will feature food- and beverage-tastings, dinners, demonstrations and more, at various sites around the lake.

For details on both events (including special lodging packages) and to buy tickets, go to www.tahoefoodandwine.com and www.ritzcarlton.com.

One more food festival is coming up, the 5th annual Sample the Sierra, noon to 5 p.m. Aug. 31 at Bijou Community Park in South Lake Tahoe. Information: www.samplethesierra.com.

ANNUAL LAKE TAHOE AUTUMN FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL SEPT. 5-7 AT NORTHSTAR 8.7.2014

This is a popular event that’s been taking place for nearly three decades in Lake Tahoe.

The 29th annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival will take place Friday, Sept. 57 at Northstar California Resort. The event will pair epicurean adventures with some of Northern California’s finest in regional food and wine delicacies.

Master chefs and winemakers invite foodies to enjoy three full days of cooking seminars and demonstrations, culinary competitions, wine tastings and food-themed experiences in The Village and on the mountain at Northstar, as well as in The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe.

“Autumn Food & Wine Festival at Northstar is a tradition that represents the best annual gathering of culinary talent, unique events and an atmosphere that celebrates food, wine, family, and fun,” said Bill Rock, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Northstar California Resort.

Refined culinary traditions, elegant events and family activities are synonymous with Northstar California – all of which echo the resort’s indisputable penchant for casual, laidback luxury.

As one of the Festival’s most iconic events, the Culinary Competition & Grand Tasting is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 7.

Other Festival highlights – such as the Farm to Tahoe Dinner at Zephyr Lodge, Gourmet Marketplace Vendor Fair, Village Wine and Brew Walk, Blazing Pans Mountain Chef Cook Off, and 16th annual Charbay Party – continue to invite guests to delight throughout the weekend of fine food and artisan wine, spirits, and beer.

Additional events throughout the three-day event include Pedals & Pinots bike tour and tasting, Beer & Artisan Cheese Pairing and Winemaker for a Day seminars, Petra Winery Luncheon, and Take a Hike! guided hike and trailside tasting.

Festival Packages for Discerning Palates The 3-Day Festival Experience package beckons unabashed foodies to indulge during Friday’s Farm to Tahoe Dinner at Zephyr Lodge, Saturday’s Brew & Wine Walk and Blazing Pans Mountain Chef Cook-Off, and Sunday’s pièce de résistance, the Grand Tasting and Culinary Competition. Additional options, such as tickets to Farm to Tahoe Dinner at Zephyr Lodge or Art of the Cocktail at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe are offered – as well as individual tickets to all events hosted throughout the Festival.

Complimentary Third Night of Lodging Reserve two nights of lodging at Northstar to receive a complimentary third night. Valid during Autumn Food & Wine Festival, Northstar Lodging offers guests close access to all events, tastings and pairings, activities and shopping in The Village at Northstar.

Schedule of Events Autumn Food & Wine Festival begins Friday, Sept. 5 and continues throughout the weekend. For additional details on the Autumn Food and Wine Festival or to purchase tickets, visit NorthstarCalifornia.com.

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TahoeART Month: September Surprises Dance, photography, music, and other treats flutter by the big lake.

By Alysia Gray Painter | Thursday, Aug 7, 2014 | Updated 6:17 PM PDT

LIVELY TIMES BESIDE THE LAKE: When there's a large body of water that's considered to be one of the planet's most glorious spots -- let's just cut straight to the absolutely true, watertight statements here -- it can be challenging to turn your gaze from the water for any length of time. Oh, perhaps if you're a skier, and there are snowy slopes nearby, but all that shimmery blue expanse? Yep, it's captivating. But the rather wonderful thing about Lake Tahoe -- we're talking about Lake Tahoe here, lest you were sitting in suspense -- is that its shores tend to be laden with lovely and mind-expanding and thought-challenging and heart-gladdening happenings. And if you arrive in September? Well, just multiply those happenings by two or three. That happens to beTahoeART Month around North Tahoe, which is the time of year a whole spring of cultural to-dos burble up and take flight (or, less poetically and more accurately, appear before your eyes in galleries and on paths near the lake). Wait strike that: It is plenty poetic, TahoeART Month, fanciful flight or not, and it is set to swan lakeside from Sept. 1 through 30. The only difficult part for you? Nope, it isn't tearing your attention away from the crystalline surface of the water. It's choosing what weekend to arrive and what to do.

ON THE SCHEDULE: Everything glitters, as one wants from an out-sized art month, but look to the plein air painting event near the start. Some thirty artists will put brush to canvas in an outdoor setting and then, voila, the paintings shall go on display. Call it very, very fresh art. That's on from Sept. 2 through 7. An Autumn Food & Wine Festival falls over that weekend -- that's the 6th and 7th -- and the Trails & Vistas

guided art hikes trek on that Saturday and Sunday as well. Dance, tunes, and more high-elevation goodies of the most elevating sort await. Going to the lake for some early fall action? Love on some quality art, too.

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A Human-Powered Movement Takes Over Reno-Tahoe

By Greg Fine on 08/06/14

When he started the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey in 2005, Eric Lerude registered 36 teams for a total of 400 runners. In 2014, the 178-mile relay race sold out at 250 teams and 3,000 enthusiastic competitors.

Todd Jackson founded the Tahoe Big Blue Adventure Race in 2002 at Lake Tahoe. His Big Blue Adventure Company now produces more than 20 different races in and around the lake. “We are focused on human-powered sports,” he said. “We’ve grown from that one adventure race to onroad triathlons, off-road triathlons and producing a 5k race and a 50k trail run.”

The racing spirit is firmly entrenched here. In addition to Jackson and Lerude’s events, the region hosts the Ironman Lake Tahoe and Xterra off-road triathlons, the enormously popular Tough Mudder endurance contest, the Western States 100, Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs and a host of up-and-coming sports that are on the forefront of the human-powered trend. Events like the O’Neill Tahoe SUP Race Series and the Ta-Hoe Nalu Paddle Festival on the North Shore and the Race the Lake of the Sky on the South Shore are signing up throngs of stand-up paddle racers as soon as the registrations open.

So, what’s going on here? Why the dash to work up a sweat in the Reno and Lake Tahoe region?

“It has a lot to do with the venue,” Jackson told Truckee’s Sierra Sun in reference to his Donner Lake Triathlon. “The course is one-of-a-kind. A lot of triathlons are flat, or flatter. We have altitude plus climbing and somewhat of a technical descent on the bike.” Lerude agrees. “We have a beautiful region that we can show off through a relay run.”

Indeed, the stunning alpine expanses are a natural draw. The chronology of the current competitive fire has a fuse that dates back to the 1960 Winter Olympics that were played out at Squaw Valley. Those were the first games televised in the United States, and they introduced the world en masse to this special place.

Today, Reno and Tahoe both aggressively promote the respective athletic opportunities that can be pursued here. On any given weekend, people from around the country descend to compete in events like the NCVA Far Western National Qualifier Tournament, the Junior Pan American Weightlifting Championships, the USA Team Handball Club National Championships and the U.S. National Alpine Championships.

“The product offering that we have up here and our positioning of doing things in the outdoors really works well with the human-powered sports initiative,” said Andy Chapman of the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association. “It starts with the traditional skiing and hiking, and it has expanded to [stand-up] paddle boarding, Ironman, much more focus on mountain biking and road biking races—things like that.”

Dive In!

Lerude is proud of the palpable effect the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey has had on non-racers. “We’ve turned a lot of couch potatoes into runners,” he said. There’s an infectious quality to competing.

It’s something that takes hold gradually. A non-runner or non-competitor idly watches a footracer cross the finish line or a pack of road cyclists whir by in a blur. Curiosity piqued, they’ll start paying closer attention to the event. Then they’ll want to be involved.

What’s the next step? Jackson and Lerude concur: volunteer.

“We’ve seen it again, again and again,” Lerude said. “They volunteer at first. And now they’re runners, and they’ve adopted a lifestyle of fitness and outdoor activity. That has been really rewarding.”

Jackson even offers his volunteers Big Blue Bucks that can be redeemed for future event registrations. “Volunteer first to get a taste,” he recommends. “You’ll get a sense of the vibe. It’ll build your confidence. And then come back and try it.”

There is a definite community aspect to competing. You’re sharing a passion with like-minded individuals, whether the sport is a newfound discovery or one you’ve been pursuing for years.

“It’s something that brings people together,” Chris Brackett, founder of the Race the Lake of the Sky event and owner of South Tahoe Standup Paddle, said of the sport. “Whether you’re a grandma, young person or an elite athlete, you can just stand out there and paddle. You’re having fun and you’re in beautiful Lake Tahoe.”

For those competing in the Odyssey, there’s a shared camaraderie. A team works together to complete the 178-mile course, which is divided into 12 legs over a 24-hour stretch.

Each racer runs for about five miles at a time, with the team vans following and carrying the other runners to the next checkpoint. The finish is different than that of an individual race, Lerude said. “It’s 12 people, a celebration.”

As you’re enjoying your time in this inspiring, scenic territory, don’t be surprised if you find yourself amid a throng of fellow spectators. And just maybe, you’ll feel a connection and be motivated to move from onlooker to participant.

North Lake Tahoe Wedding Faire to highlight vendors, venues 8/6/2014 Squaw Valley and the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association will welcome brides-to-be to the North Lake Tahoe Wedding Faire at Squaw Valley Sunday, Aug. 24 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

At the Wedding Faire, future brides can meet and mingle with local business owners who can provide everything brides need to create the wedding of their dreams. The event will host a wide range of bakeries, florists, musicians, photographers, venues, event coordinators and wedding rentals.

The Wedding Faire will take place in Squaw’s Olympic Village Lodge. Admission is free, and the first 100 brides and grooms to pre-register online will receive an automatic entry into a grand raffle prize of seven nights of accommodations in their choice of Greece, the Canary Islands, Costa Rica, Maui, St. Thomas or Vail. Raffle tickets for the event can also be purchase online at northlaketahoeresortcacoc.wliinc28.com/external/wcpages/wcevents/eventregistration.aspx?even tID=039R.

August 6, 2014

Reno-Tahoe is the place to get outside and try something new. Enjoy all the thrilling adventures or something for the whole family.

North Lake Tahoe has the Guide to #PeakYourAdventure Have you ever wondered how to play disc golf? When and where to try SUP Yoga? Or how to approach daunting peaks above the lake on a mountain bike? North Lake Tahoe now has the ultimate guide at your fingertips. Get how-to instruction from local pros on YouTube. Make sure you are dressed appropriately and headed to the right spot with this all-inclusive eBook. And most importantly, if after all of this information you are still unsure of what sport to try, take a quiz to determine what is right for you.

From disc golf to aerial fabrics to hiking, there are plenty of activities geared toward the summer and fall months. While some are tailored more for the thrill seeker, there are plenty of options that involve relaxation and light adventure for the whole family. No matter what, getting outside and trying is the most important tip. Book your adventure here.

Don’t forget your clubs!

There are more than 50 golf courses within 90 minutes of Reno —from Reno’sLakeRidge, with its worldfamous par 3 set above Lake Stanley to the Lakes Course at The Resort at Red Hawk in Sparks, which sits on Audubon-certified natural wetlands. For gorgeous views of Lake Tahoe, head to Incline Village to theChampionship Golf Course, or to South Lake Tahoe, home of Edgewood Tahoe, which has greens right along the water. South of Reno the Divine 9 courses dot the landscape of Carson City and Carson Valley.

For more information on golfing in Nevada, visit TravelNevada.com, click on the magnifying glass icon on the menu on the bottom of your screen and enter your search criteria.

The Lake Tahoe Six-Pack is back Miss winter? We do too.

If you’re already counting down the days until the lifts turn, you’ll be happy to hear that the Ski Lake Tahoe Six-Pack is back for 2014/15. Tahoe’s best lift ticket dealincludes six days of skiing or snowboarding at seven world class Lake Tahoe resorts for only $359 – under $60 a day.

Learn more about this unbeatable deal, and start planning that Lake Tahoe ski/snowboard vacation. After all, winter’s not that far off.

Kelly O'Mara

Aug 5, 2014

Sure, the beach is great in the summer, full of the sand and the sun. But lakes offer a fresh, cool alternative with great swimming and boating options that aren’t always available in the ocean. And, fortunately, there are hundreds of crystal clear lakes surrounded by mountains and open space for you to play in.

Here are the lakes that are most searched on Yahoo. Why not start planning a trip now?

1. Lake Tahoe The largest freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe is 1,645 feet deep and 72 miles around.

While the lake is clear and blue, the area is best known for the snow-capped mountains that surround the waters. In the winter, the ski resorts are the main attraction. But, in the summer, visitors boat, swim, and fish in the snow-fed lake or hike the hundreds of miles of trails around it. Just under two hours from Sacramento, Tahoe is a popular getaway for Northern Californians. On the Nevada side of the border, the casinos are also a hot attraction.

2. Lake George In the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George is known as the Queen of American Lakes. It has attracted rich families for summer vacations since the late 1800s and has been home to YMCA Camp Chingachgook since 1913. Today, much of the summer population is concentrated in the village of Lake George on the southern end of the lake. On the west side, where wealthy families have built summer mansions, the area is fittingly known as Millionaire’s Row. 3. Big Bear Lake East of Los Angeles, Big Bear is a popular Southern California vacation spot. The lake, itself, is a hot spot for wake boarding, jet skiing, and kayaking. Between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain there are 435 acres to ski in the winter or mountain bike in the summer. Off-road four-wheeler tours are also a popular way to explore the rugged terrain. And, in the summer, visitors descend on the lake for the summer concert series.

4. Lake Havasu Split down the middle by the California-Arizona border, Lake Havasu draws weekend revelers from Phoenix and visitors from Los Angeles. Although it is technically a reservoir formed by a dam built on the Colorado River in the 1930s, the lake is now known as much for fishing as for being a source of water.

The state park operates a number of boat launches and campsites at the lake. On the upper edge of the lake it is also home to the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge.

Art events from Aug. 3 and beyond Staff Report 12:59 p.m. PDT August 4, 2014 Don’t Miss This!

Third annual Art BLAST: The third annual Visual Art Biggest Little Art Show Today (BLAST) is an outdoor art fair. 19 regional artists have been selected to showcase their artwork in the East and West Galleries of McKinley Arts and Culture Center, culminating with the art fair and will feature gourds to glass and everything in between. This group of artists highlights a diverse range of talent that is exemplary of the Great Basin. When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 18 to Sept. 7;. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sept. 6 and 7. Where: McKinley Arts and Culture Center, 925 Riverside Dr. Cost: Free. Details: clarkn@reno.gov or 775-334-6264.

TODAY Reno Chamber Orchestra’s Chamber Music Concert: The orchestra presents a special chamber music concert in anticipation of the 2014 Nevada Chamber Music Festival. The concert features music by Franz Krommer, Michael Haydn and more. When: 3 p.m., today. Where: South Reno United Methodist Church, 200 DeSpain Ln. Cost: $20; $5 children. Details: www.renochamberorchestra.com Chez Louie’s Truckee River Quartet: Music brunch at Chez Louie features artful dishes, mimosas and a Bloody Mary Bar. When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., today. Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St. Details: Reservations strongly encouraged, call 775.284.2921 “Marilyn and Friends” photo exhbition: Well-known area photographer Marilyn Newton, along with friends Jack Hursh and Terry Cynar, each bring their extraordinary photographic vision of local and regional images to the exhibition. When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; exhibit runs today through Aug. 29. Where: Artists Co-op of Reno, 627 Mill St. Cost: Free. Details: www.artistsco-opgalleryreno.com.

11th annual Jazz and Beyond: Carson City Music Festival: The Mile High Jazz Band Association and Carson City present the Jazz and Beyond event, featuring more than 100 musicians, representing over 50 bands, including Dixieland jazz, big band, bluegrass, Latin, blues, folk and more. When: Today through Aug.17; Where: Multiple venues throughout Carson City. Cost: Some ticketed; most free. Details: www.jazzcarsoncity.com Lake Tahoe Summerfest: Lake Tahoe SummerFest is a world-class celebration of the arts with nine classical music concerts in an acoustical tent. The concert series is comprised of 40 musicians from the world's stage, invited by Maestro Joel Revzen, and includes Metropolitan

Opera Star Matthew Polenzani and U.S. Billboard Classical Chart best-selling pianist Simone Dinnerstein. When: Times vary; Today through Aug.17. Concerts run each Friday, Saturday and Sunday.Where: Sierra Nevada College, 999 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village. Cost: Ticket costs vary, begin at $25. Details: www.tahoesummerfest.org THIS MONTH Arthur Domagal: People Versus Structures: An exhibition of photographic works by Arthur Domagala that takes notice of how significant the relationship between humans and buildings.

Domagala’s background includes degrees in English and astrophysics, playing in a rock band, being an editor for a motorcycle magazine, and teaching English in Poland. Last year he moved to the San Francisco Bay Area. Prior to that he was a resident of Reno and supporter of its evergrowing arts community, and had also served on the Reno Arts & Culture Commission. A reception for the artist will be held on Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; exhibit runs Aug 6 through Sept. 5. Where: Sierra Arts Gallery, 17 S. Virginia St. Cost: Free. Details: www.sierra-arts.org.

William Binzen’s “Waking Dream” photo exhibition: Photographer William Binzen displays the early years of Burning Man and Black Rock Desert in his exhibition, “Waking Dream.” As the first photographer on the playa in 1990, Binzen has captured the spirit of the event in it’s early days in a series of surreal and colorful art photos. An artist reception will be held at 5 p.m., Aug. 7. When: Exhibition runs Aug. 5 to Sept. 4. Where: Liberty Fine Arts Gallery, 100 W. Liberty St. Cost: Free. Details: www.libertyfineartgallery.com SummerFest Gala: An enchanted evening at the Lakeshore Castle in Incline Village will feature music, food, and conversation in a divine setting. Evening will include musical performances from Lake Tahoe Summerfest musicians. Dress attire is outdoor cocktail or Baroque-themed costume. When: 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. entry; Aug. 7. Where: Lakeshore Castle, 857 Lakeshore Blvd. Cost: $500 premier gala tickets; $250 individual gala tickets. Details: tahoesummerfest.org; 775-298-0245.

Fiddler on the Roof: The 50th anniversary of the award-winning musical “Fiddler on the Roof” will be celebreated in a new production by Sierra School of Performing Arts. When: 7:30 p.m., Aug. 15-17; 22-24. Where: Hawkins Outdoor Amphitheater, 6000 Bartley Ranch Rd. Cost: Adults $20, adults in advance, $25 at the door; students/seniors $15. Details: www.sierraschoolofperformingarts.org; 775-852-7740 TMCC Creative Writing courses: Relate your stories in an engaging fashion that will captivate readers. Explore all the elements of writing including character, plot, theme, setting and point of view. Discover the primary character types as you learn from a published author how to write for children and adults. When: 6 p.m. Aug. 18 to Oct. 13. Where: TMCC Meadowood Center, 5270 Neil Rd. Cost: $119. Details: 775-829-9010; washoecommunityed.org Humble Vessel: Artist Karl Schwiesow creates his sculptures with inspiration from the world around him. In "Humble Vessel," Schwiesow presents a 22’ sailboat that he has deconstructed [sliced apart] then reconstructed in the gallery. When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Exhibit runs through Sept. 11. Where: Carson City Arts Initiative, Courthouse Gallery, 885 E. Musser St. Cost: Free.Details: arts-initiative.org BRIC Art 4: The Capital City Arts Initiative exhibition includes artwork by eight area artists: Kyle Akins, Megan Berner, Carol Brown, Erik Holland, Melissa Melero, Stephen Reid, Lynn Schmidt and Julia Schwadron. When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; exhibtion runs through Sept. 5. Where: Business Resource Innovation Center [BRIC], 108 E Proctor St. Cost: Free. Details: www.arts-initiative.org.

Movie Musical Sing-A-Long: “Grease:” Get out your leather jackets, pull on your bobby socks and take a trip to a simpler time with the original high school musical, “Grease.” The film stars John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing, and Jeff Conaway. Come dressed as your favorite character from “Grease” and enter to win our costume contest. A special prize is awarded to the winner. Price of admission includes a goodie bag full of fun props to increase the audience participation fun. When: 3 p.m.. and 7 p.m. Aug. 16. The later showing is adult only.

Where: Good Luck Macbeth, 713 S. Virginia St. Cost: $13. Details: www.goodluckmacbeth.com Mark Twain’s Suicide Table Blood Bucket Ghost Bonanza Amen: With a nod to Virginia City’s lively popular culture and lengthy history, the Capital City Arts Initiative announces its exhibition, "Mark Twain’s Suicide Table Blood Bucket Ghost Bonanza Amen," by artist Justin FavelaWhen: Exhibtion runs today hrough Aug. 31. Where: St. Mary’s Art Center, 55 North R St., Virginia City. Cost: Details:

Save-the-Date: North Lake Tahoe Bridal Faire August 4, 2014 Save-the-date and join us for the North Lake Tahoe Bridal Faire on August 24, 2014 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m at Squaw Valley, Olympic Village.

Stop by this great event for your FREE copy of Real Weddings Magazine and our planning resource, Real WeddingsMagazine’s The Planning Guide! Plus, enter to win a $100 gift certificate to The Landing Resort & Spa from our booth at this event.

Pre-register for this amazing event HERE!!!

Here are the details: Date: August 24, 2014 Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: Squaw Valley, Olympic Village Lodge at 1901 Chamonix Place in Tahoe City Cost: Admission is FREE! About: North Lake Tahoe is a four-season wonder for weddings and honeymoons. The Bridal Faire is the event not to be missed to create the wedding of your dreams.

The first 100 brides and grooms to pre-register HERE will receive one automatic entry into the Grand Raffle for 8 days, 7 nights accommodations at your choice of Maui, Costa Rica, Greece or the Canary Islands.

For more information, log on to facebook.com/NorthLakeTahoeBridalFaire.

Be sure to tell them you found out about the event from Real Weddings Magazine!

7/30/2014

By Christina Nellemann Tahoe Local Expert Lake Tahoe has seven world-class ski resorts that offer everything from deep powdery snow, luxury accommodations and dining, ski villages, cross country ski and snowshoe areas and family fun that includes ice skating and sledding. All these amenities are located close to the deep blue lake that attracts people from all over the world.

Of the seven resorts, there is something to choose from for every type of skier. Whether you are a novice looking for lessons or training or an expert looking for the perfect black diamond run, you can find it at any of these resorts. For excellent accommodations, acres of terrain and deep snow, check out Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows or Northstar. Kirkwood is also an excellent choice for people who want to get away

from the crowds. If you are interested in more family-oriented resorts that locals tend to visit, check out Mount Rose near Reno, Homewood near Tahoe City or Diamond Peak with its great views of the lake.

Even if you don't downhill ski, there is still tons to do at the resorts including shopping, ice skating, eating, sledding and even cross country skiing or snowshoeing.

Both Heavenly and Squaw Valley have wonderful gondola rides to the top of the mountain where you can have an amazing sunset picnic while watching other skiers tackle the powder.

10 Homewood Mountain Resort Located on Lake Tahoe's west coast, Homewood is another resort that prefers to quietly mesmerize visitors rather than assault them with glitz. It offers terrific powder and spectacular views, and children learning to ski are provided a private run on which to train. Approximately 1260 acres accommodate visitors, and the bulk of the terrain is intended for intermediate skiers (followed by advanced). Eight lifts handle mountain traffic, and waits are uncommon. Snowboarding is available, as is a convenient shuttle.

Homewood also offers free ski lessons for beginner or intermediate skiers Sunday through Friday on non-peak dates throughout the winter season. (530-525-2992)

9 Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort Royal Gorge near Truckee and Donner Pass in the Tahoe area is North America's largest cross country ski resort. This mountainous resort offers 200 kilometers of groomed trails across 6,000 acres of pristine terrain and six distinct track systems featuring eight different warming huts. The newly renovated resort also offers snowshoeing, snow kiting and even fat tire snowbiking. An all day cross country trail pass is between $28-$31 a day and an afternoon trail pass is $23-$26 a day. Season passes, lessons and rentals are also available at Royal Gorge. The resort also features a retail shop, The Summit Station, with ski gear, clothing and accessories; a repair shop and several restaurants including The Summit Station Lodge and some on-trail warming huts with hot drinks and food. ((530) 426-3871)

8 Sugar Bowl A top choice for travelers coming to Lake Tahoe from the west, Sugar Bowl tempts skiers with lots of fine powder and a manageable yet varied assortment of runs. The bulk of the terrain goes to intermediate and advanced folks, but there's plenty of room for kids and for boarders too. More than 80 runs allow visitors to tackle the part of the multi-peak resort they're most comfortable with, and lifts include high-speed quads and a gondola. 1500 acres. Lessons for kids and adults are available. Sugar Bowl offers their signature private lessons for $125 for the first hour and $100 per additional hour after that. (530-426-9000)

7 Sierra-at-Tahoe Sierra at Lake Tahoe is a local's favorite ski resort that won't bust your wallet. The resort has 46 trails and plenty of beginner trails for children and newbies. For about $35 a day you can get your rentals, lessons and lift ticket. The mountain also has seven

snowboard parks and pipes where new and advanced boarders can practice their skills.

The resort also has complimentary shuttles that stop at many hotels and casino properties on the South Shore or you can carpool up to the resort. Hook up with fellow carpoolers with Zimride Either way you save gas, carbon emissions and a whole lot of money. (530-659-7453)

6 Heavenly Resort One of the few ski resorts on the South Shore, Heavenly goes all out to provide a topof-the-line experience. Situated on the lake's tallest mountain, Heavenly also straddles Nevada and California. It offers 4800 acres of skiing, more than 80 runs, 30-some lifts (including an impressive, high-speed gondola), and a large proportion of runs that cater to advanced skiers. Multiple lodges sit on the mountain and at its base, providing downtime when you need it, and skiing lessons are available. Great snow, great views.

Heavenly also offers a ski village with shopping, dining, bars and an ice skating rink for families. (775-586-7000)

5 Diamond Peak It may not be the largest, most expansive resort in the area, but Diamond Peak definitely gets raves for its uncrowded, family-friendly slopes. That means that you get more flexibility on lifts and more opportunity at runs. Approximately 650 acres of terrain make up the resort, and about half of it accommodates intermediate skiers. You'll also find areas for snowboarding and a family area for sledding. Great views are an added plus, along with a free shuttle service. Diamond Peak is known for its incredible views of the North Shore of Lake Tahoe and great deals on daily lift tickets. (775-832-1177, 775831-3249)

4 Mount Rose Ski Tahoe Mount Rose Ski Tahoe is the closest ski resort to Reno, but still has great views of Lake Tahoe and beyond. Widely known as the "local's resort", Mount Rose still has everything that the larger resorts do: a beautiful lodge at the East Bowl, over 60 trails, 8 lifts, beginner's runs and Tahoe's highest base elevation at 8,260 feet. Mount Rose gets an average of 30 feet of snow every winter. Rose also offers 2 terrain parks for boarders which include a propane tank, corrogated tub, and a 24-foot battleship box. Lessons and rentals are available as well as several dining options. Events can be held at the Winter's Creek Ranch which has amazing views of Washoe Valley and Reno and season passes are sold all year long. (775.849.0704)

3 Alpine Meadows The beautiful Alpine Meadows ski resort located in the Tahoe National Forest and boasting lake views, this resort spreads across 2400 acres. Its diversity is evident in that it's a favorite of families with kids and of folks who crave a more adventurous experience. More than 100 runs, 13 lifts (including a couple of high-speed ones), a ski shop, a selection of restaurants, and rentals all serve to make Alpine Meadows a onestop destination. And whether you're in the mood for standard-issue skiing or prefer backcountry trails or boarding, you'll find it here. Almost evenly distributed among

beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs (25%-40%-35%). (530-583-4232, 800-4414423)

2 Kirkwood Kirkwood offers 12 lifts, a 2,000 foot vertical descent and over 68 runs to choose from.

The lift system includes one high-speed quad chair, one fixed-grip quad, seven triple chairs, one double chair and two surface lifts. With its chutes, wide open bowls, rock drops and long gullies, Kirkwood provides an abundance of freeriding snowboard terrain. A man-made terrain park adds more fun for snowboarders. Kirkwood Lodging Services rents privately owned slopeside condominiums all centrally located around the Mountain Village. The Village's Rocky Mountain-style pedestrian plaza is the center of activity with a bonfire, music, food and shopping all located there. Kirkwood's 80 kilometers of cross-country ski trails offer diverse terrain for skiers of all abilities. Skiers or snowshoers can climb ridge tops, glide along the base of impressive lava cliffs and roll along creeks through picturesque meadows. The Cross Country Day Lodge houses a ski school and ski shop, as well as a rental shop fully stocked with standard, skating and telemark gear. Woody's Family Fun Zone, adjacent to Chair #1 offers inner tubing, sledding, tray-sliding races and rides on the snow volcano. The park is open to all ages in the afternoons and evenings. Kirkwood offers 2,300 acres of excellent ski and snowboard terrain. In addition, it also offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing and sledding. Kirkwood is located to the south of Lake Tahoe, off California Highway 88. Scenic Highway 88 provides hassle-free travel to Kirkwood from the Greater San Francisco Bay Area, the Central Valley and Lake Tahoe, as well as Reno and the Carson Valley. You'll find the lack of traffic on Highway 88 makes it an excellent alternative to the more congested Highway 50 and Interstate 80 when traveling to and from the Lake Tahoe area. Kirkwood is approximately 90 minutes by car from the Reno/Tahoe International Airport, 35 minutes from the South Lake Tahoe Airport, 3 1/4 hours from the San Francisco Bay Area and 2 hours from Sacramento.

(209-258-6000)

1 Northstar-at-Tahoe Applauded for its breadth of winter activities, Northstar does a brisk business when the snow flies. More than 2400 acres of ski-able terrain ensures that folks have room to spread out, and skiers of intermediate ability claim 50% of the runs. (The remainder is divided evenly among beginners and advanced visitors.) Boulevards and backcountry stretches permit you to tackle the type of snow you like best; other options include snowboarding, snow-shoeing, tubing, and cross-country skiing. Kids are easily accommodated, and the resort provides 70 runs, two half-pipes, and 15 lifts (including a high-speed gondola) to make life easier and more entertaining. (530-562-1010, 800466-6784)

North Lake Tahoe July 4 fireworks display valued at $200,000 July 30, 2014

INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — Each year, the Red, White and Tahoe Blue festival aims to top the previous year’s Independence Day celebration with higher-quality events — and a bigger, bolder and brighter fireworks show.

Don’t believe it? Just check out this year’s price tag for the nonprofit’s marquee event.

“I’d put it at $200,000,” said Ken Lantis, owner of Lantis Fireworks & Lasers, which is conducting the July 4 fireworks display for a seventh year. “If I had to do the barges, and didn’t give the super discount and all that, to sell this at retail, it would be right around $200,000.”

Still, the actual cost to Red, White and Tahoe Blue is around $70,000, said chairman Jim Smith. The rebate is possible because the nonprofit has bought its own barges, and it trains and insures capable volunteers to staff them — all helped by forging a solid partnership with the Draper, Utah-based fireworks company.

“It’s been a lot of fun — I’m 69 years old now, and the way I see it is you have to enjoy things in life, or you don’t do them,” Lantis said. “I’m just so happy that Red, White and Tahoe Blue is going so strong, and certainly appreciate the people who are donating money. It would be a very little show without the community’s help.”

“We’ve decided to create a festival that we think the demographics of our community would enjoy.”

Jim Smith Chairman of Red, White and Tahoe Blue / redwhiteandtahoeblue.org The show will explode above Lake Tahoe off the shores of Incline Beach at 9:30 p.m.

Friday. It will feature 400 more shells than last year’s arsenal of 2,200, Smith said, including

some that are 8, 9 and even 10 inches in size. The 10-inch rounds can go as high as 1,000 feet.

The increased height and a new strategy this year to launch farther away from shore will allow people to see the show from other locations outside the beaches.

It was important to make those changes this year, Smith said, due to IVGID’s recent decision to restrict beach access to valid beach residents and their guests.

Like previous years, the show will last roughly 30 minutes, and all the shells will be environmentally friendly.

“We use pulp shells, which are biodegradable, instead of plastic shells that float and pollute the lake,” Smith said.

Further, as has been the case for years, RWTB has a partnership with the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, whose divers scour the lake’s bottom every July 5 to ensure no debris is left over.

“Every time, the lake’s cleaner after the show than it was before — we find sunglasses, beer bottles and all kinds of stuff, so we’re always committed to doing that,” Smith said.

BRINGING BACK THE PHIL Among 28 events planned this year is the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra’s concert before and during the fireworks display.

Under the baton of Music Director Laura Jackson, the orchestra will conduct a Boston Popsesque concert from 8-10 p.m. Friday at the Village Green.

The show includes “Chesapeake: Summer of 1814” — a salute to the 200th Anniversary of The Star-Spangled Banner — as well as “America the Beautiful,” “1812 Overture” and others.

It concludes with a synchronized performance to the fireworks shooting off above the stage.

Tickets are $10 for youth and $40 for adults.

Bringing the orchestra back this year — it performed a similar concert for the 2008 festival — was a big win both for RWTB and Incline Village, Smith said.

“We’ve decided to create a festival that we think the demographics of our community would enjoy … and each year we try to improve in terms of customer experience, quality and value,” he said.

Smith said he’s also been discussing a long-term partnership with Tim Young, CEO of the Reno Philharmonic, which — like Red, White and Tahoe Blue — is a nonprofit.

“We want to bring them back … the goal for this to be a long-term relationship to be part of our event for the future,” Smith said. “And what’s great about it is the partnership is an investment on both our parts, because net proceeds and revenues benefit us and their nonprofit, since we’re producing this event together.”

‘ALL AGES AND INTERESTS’ Aside from the fireworks, the most-attended event each year for RWTB is the parade.

This year’s is Saturday, July 5, starting with the Kid’s Bike Parade at 10:15 a.m., followed by the full procession at 10:30, which will traverse Highway 28 from Village Boulevard to Southwood Boulevard, and onto Incline Way, ending at the Village Green.

This year, RWTB allowed free entry for floats in the parade. Another new feature is the addition of the McQueen High School marching band, which performed in last year’s Rose Bowl parade.

“We feel the marching band is a really positive enhancement to the parade,” Smith said. “It goes to our bigger focus to have enough events for the folks to stay in our community and not have to travel, so they can enjoy the community. We want to reach folks of all ages and interests, while helping support our community and merchants as well.”

Red, White and Tahoe Blue’s local economic impact is as much as $4 million annually, Smith said, considering it draws people across the nation and world to Incline Village and Crystal Bay. Another example of added quality is the July 4 Wine & Dine on the Grove event. Formerly called “Wine & Cheese,” the event from 5-7:30 p.m. at Aspen Grove features new wines, and food prepared by Chef Chris Daniel of Big Water Grille, along with live classical music.

“We want to bring better value in experience for those who enjoy fine wine and food,” Smith said.

Still, despite all the upgrades this year, Smith and Lantis both know the most spectacular of events will be Friday night’s fireworks show.

“It will be a lot larger show than last year. Now, it probably never will be the largest show in the United States, but we can be the most unique and unusual show you’ll ever see,” Lantis said. “With this wonderful lake, the mountains behind it, and a beach to sit on, it’s a show that nobody else has anywhere.”

Weekend planner for Aug. 1 and beyond Staff Report9:07 p.m. PDT July 30, 2014

FRIDAY 01 Lake Tahoe SummerFest 2014 Metropolitan opera star Matthew Polenzani and Billboard-charting classical pianist Simone Dinnerstein will be headline soloists performing at the Lake Tahoe SummerFest 2014, which takes place in an intimate 500-seat acoustical tent pavilion at Sierra Nevada College in Incline Village. The classical music festival takes place Aug. 1-17 with performances at 7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and a chamber music series, “Meet the Music,� at 4 p.m. Sundays.

Polenzani hosts the weekend of Aug. 1-3 and Dinnerstein will do the same Aug. 7-9. All concerts feature a 40-piece orchestra. Ticket prices have yet to be announced. For details, visitwww.tahoesummerfest.org.

10 THINGS TO DO IN AUGUST 2014 IN LAKE TAHOE: TOP AUGUST EVENTS AND SUMMERTIME THINGS TO DO IN LAKE TAHOE ANNOUNCED BY TAHOESBEST.COM Lake Tahoe in August Is Full of Sunshine, Watersports, Outside Activities, and Good Times; So Take Advantage of the Beautiful Weather and Enjoy Top Things to Do This August in Lake Tahoe LAKE TAHOE, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 07/30/14 -- Lake Tahoe, renowned for over 300 days of sunshine and surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, may just be one of the best places in the world to take a summer vacation. With so much natural beauty and so many ways to do, see, and relax, there are nearly endless possibilities for how to spend your time around the lake. Today, TahoesBest.com, the area's leading tourism site, announced a list of top things to do and events in Lake Tahoe for this August 2014.

1 - Watch Shakespeare in the Park Go to the Sand Harbor National Park and get some culture while you watch a local production of Shakespeare's play, "As You Like It," a charming tale about hiding away in the country that has been adapted and set during the Second Industrial Revolution. Open until August 24th, you will witness remarkable scenery, striking costumes, impressive actors, and hear the immortal words of the Bard himself. More information here: http://www.tahoesbest.com/laketahoe-shakespeare-festival-0 2 - Go to the Valhalla Art, Music, and Theatre Festival The Valhalla Festival, another great cultural experience that is right in front of Lake Tahoe, is a lively celebration of art, music, and drama. From energetic Gypsy music to improv shows to intimate art events, the festival should have something for everyone. Starting in late June and lasting through August, the events take place at the Boathouse Theatre, the Valhalla Grand Hall, and on the Grand Lawn. More information here: http://www.tahoesbest.com/valhalla-at-lake-tahoe-festival 3 - Dance at Live at Lakeview Go to the Lakeview Commons and check out Live at Lakeview every Thursday night from June 26th to August 28th. It

is a free summer music series in an outdoor amphitheater that features performances from both local and national music acts. There is a free bike valet, a beer garden, and plenty of local vendors. There's a little bit of everything: Rock & Roll, Blues, and an Afro-fusion Orchestra.

4 - Take in the Music at the Tahoe SummerFest Founded in 2011, Tahoe SummerFest hosts a series of classical music concerts. There are performances by wellknown soloists as well as the musicians of the Lake Tahoe SummerFest Orchestra, who hail from renowned ensembles such as the New York Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Seattle Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. This event starts in the Incline Village on August 1st and ends on the 17th.

5 - Observe the Concours D'elegance The Concours D'elegance, founded in 1972 by boat enthusiasts, is one of the most respected wooden boat shows in the world. This August 8th and 9th, see historic and restored wooden boats, hang out by the lake, and try to predict which vessel will win the coveted Most Elegant Boat of Show award.

6 - Paddleboard in Tahoe-Nalu Take a trip to North Lake Tahoe and watch or take part in the oldest stand up paddleboard festival in the world.

Taking place between August 9th and 11th, the three day event is expected at draw 4000 spectators who will watch as elite athletes from Europe, Australia, and Hawaii paddle through the serene Big Blue. If you're not a choice athlete, don't panic. There are events for all ages and all skill levels.

7 - Bike the Forest Bicycle Trail There is nothing in this world like zipping through the pine-scented air in the midst of nature, and there's no better place to do that than on the Forest Bicycle Trail. The paved paths bend through the lush forest for ten miles and connect to Pope Beach and Baldwin Beach. Don't have a bike? Anderson's Bicycle Rental, an established familyowned business, is located at the head of the trail.

If you're looking for more of an adventure use Wanna Ride -- a company that shuttles mountain bikers to where they need to go, and is the easiest and most affordable way to get to hard to find mountain bike spots. Get dropped off at perfect mountain bike locations, such as Christmas Valley Downhill and Hawley Grade Downhill, for as little as $20 per person.

8 - Float Above Tahoe with Hang Gliding Tahoe See the lake like you never have before. Book an instructor from Hang Gliding Tahoe and take an extraordinary glide over the lake in a micro-light powered trike. Hang Gliding Tahoe is open year round, but the view of the summer lake is said to be unforgettable. There's no boring class, either. They suit you up, give you a quick safety briefing, and then let you go flying. You fly as much as you would like, except for take-offs and landings. It even counts toward a pilot's license!

9 - Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight Take the Lakewide Sunset Tour for an hour long ride over Tahoe with Reno Tahoe Helicopters. Departing from the South Lake Tahoe Airport, you'll fly over the Emerald Bay and continue along the western shore until you turn east to fly over Kings Beach and Incline Village. You'll be afforded magnificent twilight views of Zephyr Cove, Cave Rock, and the casinos at Stateline.

10 - Relax at BioSpirit Day Spa After a long day of adventuring, why not treat yourself to a massage at BioSpirit? A Eucalyptus steam room is

included with any of your services and there are optional sauna rooms and light therapy. Information about BioSpirit Day Spa here.

Bonus - Hiking with Tahoe Rim Trail Association Everyone knows hiking is a must while on vacation in Lake Tahoe (especially with beautiful summer weather), and the Tahoe Rim Trail Association makes it easy with guided hikes, backcountry camps, and trail building workdays.

Camp out under the stars on August 1-3 and again August 16-17 with the Tahoe Rim Trail. Register for backcountry camps here, it's free! The event is in Nevada State Park, and campers have fun meeting new people, working on trails, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Or enjoy free guided day hikes, going on throughout August -- full list of Tahoe Rim Trail guided hikes here.

About TahoesBest.com: Lake Tahoe is known for outdoor activities, pristine waters and one of the best wedding destinations in the country.

TahoesBest.com is the authority on what to do, where to stay, weather updates and all the best upcoming events for any visitor. Use TahoesBest.com to find information, reviews and deals on all things Lake Tahoe from concerts to vacation rentals.

Tahoe and Napa: Finding Summer Shakespeare Headed for the lake or wine country before the vacation season winds down?

By Alysia Gray Painter | Monday, Jul 28, 2014

BARD BENEATH THE SKY: Did William Shakespeare know that, several centuries after his wordly, worldly reign as a prolific playwright and literary game-changer, he'd be synonymous with summertime? Maybe, right? After all, he wrote about flowers and grasses and the sybaritic pleasures of warm weather with aplomb and style. So that summer belongs to Shakespeare makes sense. It also makes sense that we might build our weekend road trips or to-brief vacations around seeing some al fresco plays, if that is indeed what we are into (and fingers crossed that many of us are). The cities have their outdoor Shakespeare, for sure, but so do a few of our popular getaway spots, like Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley. Headed for either? Then make for...

SAND HARBOR STATE PARK: The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival is in full, tight-wearing, soliloquy-speaking swing, and the ever-delightful "As You Like It" is the work of the summer.

Is that the lake in the background? Indeed it is, making this one of the more scenic of the outdoor Shakespeare happenings. Will it feel as though you've been transported to the Forest of Arden? Well, you are in the alpine-y beauty of the high Tahoe country, so that's a good fantasy to have. And will you picnic, with wine? That is permitted. We'd say that Tahoe is very Shakespeare like, what with Emerald Bay and its sublime vistas. Yep, it is very Arden indeed. Through Aug. 24.

NAPA VALLEY: A different production will be presented indoors at the Napa Valley College Performing Arts Center in September, so hooray to that. But beforehand, in August? Here's a twist on summer Shakespeare: A Gold Rush-themed presentation'll go down in Downtown Napa's Veteran's Memorial Park. It's all about thespians performing the Bard's works in 1849, and the ensuing high jinks. Ready for a wine country weekend and a twist on ol' Will's world? Click here, lovers of al fresco theater.

Top 10 summer activities in North Lake Tahoe July 28, 2014

Lake Tahoe has been the playground of Northern California for decades, drawing visitors from San Francisco and beyond to enjoy the pleasures of the largest alpine lake in North America, surrounded by forests and jagged granite peaks that were sculpted in the last ice age. With more than 300 days of sunshine and a plethora of activities to choose from it’s no wonder that many families come here year after year.

The clear, blue water of the lake and its massive size (being the largest lake in the U.S. after the Great Lakes) means that it’s a water sports haven for boaters, kayakers and stand up paddleboarders. Hikers and backpackers take advantage of the extensive wilderness trail system through National Forests and protected lands. During the winter skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling dominate the scene but in the summer, when the wildflowers boom and temperatures are mild, the number of activities multiplies exponentially. There’s something for just about everyone, from horseback riding to rafting. They can’t all be contained in a Top 10 list but the following represents some of the most popular things to do in North Lake Tahoe in a summer weekend visit.

1. Hike to Five Lakes: The trailhead near Alpine Meadows has ample parking along the road and the five small lakes at the end of the steep two-mile ascent is the perfect reward. Bring a picnic and, if you’re brave, go for a dip in the chilly waters. The trail connects to the Pacific Crest Trail and accesses the Granite Chief Wilderness, which offers backpacking opportunities along gurgling creeks and lovely lakes.

2. Ride horses: Horseback riding is available at Alpine Meadows Stables, which has served the community since the 1940s when it was a pack station. Guides lead rides on gentle horses through the scenic forests.

3. Float the Truckee River: Warm summer days find a stream of brightly colored rafts floating down the Truckee River from morning until late afternoon, ending at the popular River Ranch, where a large deck allows revelers to watch the action. Rafts can be rented in Tahoe City atTruckee River Rafting and Truckee River Raft Company. The outfits shuttle rafters from River Ranch back to Tahoe City.

4. Visit Squaw Valley: There’s a lot to do in Squaw Valley in the summer. The tram whisks visitors to High Camp at 8,200 feet, where decisions have to be made: swim in the pool, hike the trails, play tennis, go geocaching, play 18 holes of disc golf or get a bite to eat. Events in the village are scheduled every weekend in the summer, from yoga festivals to concerts, with plenty of weekday events too.

5. Ride bikes: Bring your own or rent bikes in Tahoe City, Truckee or other communities around the lake. Ride the easy Truckee River Trail, challenge yourself on the Flume Trail or explore the mountain bike trails at Northstar.

6. Go to the beach: The north shore sports beautiful beaches, including the accessible Tahoe City Commons Beach, which has a children’s play area, grass and a sandy beach, and concerts are held there throughout the summer.

7. Get on the lake: Sparkling Lake Tahoe is beautiful to look at but to really enjoy it you should get on the lake, whether it’s by kayak, paddleboard or boat. Kayaks and paddleboards can be rented at Tahoe City Kayak and other spots around the lake.

Sailboat rides, including sunset cruises, are offered with experienced captains at Tahoe Sail.

8. Play golf: Golf courses are plentiful, with ten courses around the lake and 14 more nearby, giving golfers plenty to choose from. They range from local 9-holers to championship 18 hole courses.

9. Go fishing: Lake Tahoe offers great fishing opportunities in Lake Tahoe, as well as in local rivers, streams and smaller lakes. Popular game fish include kokanee salmon ,mackinaw, rainbow and Brown trout.

10. Swing through the trees on a zip line: Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parkoffers two aerial courses, one for smaller kids and the other for adults and teens. Sixty five platforms high in the trees are connected by a network of zip lines and bridges.

Other Activities For those who prefer less strenuous activity a pleasant day can be spent visiting any of a number of historic sites, from the excellent historical museum at Donner Memorial State Park, to the grand Vikingsholm mansion atEmerald Bay State Park, to the Wild West town of Truckee where you can comb the boutique stores for treasures to take home. In Tahoe City you can peruse the small Gatekeepers Museum and Indian Basket Museum at the site where the Watermaster used to control the flow of water from Lake Tahoe.

The fittest among us appreciate challenging themselves by biking the Flume Trail, backpacking in the Desolation Wilderness, rock climbing and bagging peaks such as the 9,735 foot Mt. Tallac or 9,983 foot Pyramid Peak.

Whatever you like to do, you’re sure to find something to do in Lake Tahoe that will make you feel rejuvenated and reconnected.

Get To Know: North Lake Tahoe Convention & Visitor Bureau CMO Andy Chapman Amy Gesenhues on July 23, 2014 at 11:00 am

As the Chief Marketing Officer for the North Lake Tahoe Convention and Visitor Bureau and the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, Andy Chapman has lived in Lake Tahoe for more than 20 years and is happy to call it home.

While Chapman’s day job is spent promoting the North Lake Tahoe region to traveling consumers both domestically and internationally, he can also be found outside enjoying all the recreational activities the area has to offer.

Chapman says he knows how to make the most of his home base, from a morning paddle across flat waters, to an afternoon spent mountain bike riding and wrapping the day with evening music on the beach.

“Marketing this region is truly a dream job,” said Chapman, “I grew up in Reno, Nevada and spent many days along the shores of Lake Tahoe, hiking the trails, skiing the mountains, and really looking for any excuse to spend time up here. I am blessed to live in Tahoe.”

For the past 12 years, Chapman has served as North Lake Tahoe Resort Association’s director of tourism and CMO. The organization partners with the Incline Village Crystal Bay Visitors Bureau to market the North Lake Tahoe region as a single vacation destination. Chapman oversees all of the tourism and marketing functions including consumer marketing, conference and group sales, travel trade and wholesale efforts, special events, public relations and social media efforts.

Prior to serving as CMO, Chapman held roles within the ski industry, a tour boat outfit and time spent working for an advertising agency.

Chapman is a member of the Visit California marketing committee, helping to guide California’s national and international marketing efforts. He also sits on the board of the Sierra Ski Marketing Council, an organization focused on promoting the Lake Tahoe region as a top winter ski destination.

“North Lake Tahoe is truly a unique vacation destination,” said Chapman, “Raising three kids in this outdoor playground, my wife and I are true Tahoe locals.”

Andy Chapman CMO @ North Lake Tahoe Convention and Visitor Bureau      

Age: 51 HQ: Tahoe City, CA First Job: Winchell’s Donut House Apple or Android? Apple Hobby: Cycling, hiking, sailing & beer brewing First Car: Gran Torino

What mobile device can you not live without?

My music files and squish ear plugs.

Which apps do you use most often for work?

Yahoo Weather: Snowing? Sunny? Windy? Just need to know what equipment to load up.

What social media network or website do you frequent most when you’re not working?

Instagram, to keep track of my kid’s activities.

What’s the first thing you check on your phone in the morning?

The time.

Take me through your typical workday.

I get to work with a great tourism team, promoting one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Lake Tahoe is truly one of the World’s wonders. From winter promotion and the largest concentration of ski resorts in North America, to long summer days that consist of biking trails, hiking vistas, and being out on the crystal blue waters of the north shore.

What has been the most exciting work development during the past year?

Over the last few years we have focused efforts around a Human Powered Sports Initiative and achieved great success. Our inaugural launch of the IRONMAN Lake Tahoe last September was a huge success and is the only full distance IRONMAN race in the western United States.

IRONMAN has since added a 70.3 (half distance) race to run consecutively with the full version this next year. We will be the first destination in the western hemisphere to host an IRONMAN and an IRONMAN 70.3 on the same course on the same day.

USA Cycling is another great project coming in 2015 and 2016. Last December, we announced that North Lake Tahoe was awarded the USA Cycling Amateur and Para-cycling National Road Championships.

Lake Tahoe offers a bounty of recreational opportunities and we have placed laser focus on not only promoting the great recreational access within our region but have also sought out major events that align well with the North Lake Tahoe brand.

How many miles have you traveled in the last 12 months?

I was able to travel to Austin, Texas, for the first time, to attend the Austin Wanderlust Festival this past November. It’s an incredible event combining yoga and top-notch instructors with great live music by some of the best music acts around.

Wanderlust began 5 years ago at Squaw Valley in North Lake Tahoe, and the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association/CVB has been a sponsor since that first year. The event has since expanded to five festivals, and added multiple events throughout the year. It was great to go to Austin and be absorbed in their incredible music scene.

What work challenge keeps you up at night?

Making every dollar of our tourism budget work harder and harder.

Competition in the destination travel space is fierce with destinations vying for the traveler’s vacation dollar. We are constantly reviewing our efforts to determine the success of our campaigns and the ROI on our regions investment in tourism.

Can you tell us about a campaign or work project you’d like to do over?

You don’t get do-overs in the tourism business but you can learn from the past. One thing we have learned in Lake Tahoe is that Mother Nature is really in charge.

Back in 2011, we were the starting location for the first stage of the Amgen Tour of California bike race. The Tour of California is the biggest professional bike race in the United States. We worked for over two years on planning and implementation of the event, which was to be held in May. We did not anticipate weather being an issue…cold, maybe. Hot, perhaps. It snowed a foot the night before the start of this 7-day race, and with fourinches of packed ice on the road, the Lake Tahoe stage was moved.

Flexibility and humor are a necessity.

What does your desk look like?

You mean besides the mess on the desk itself? I keep a board filled with pictures of my three kids over the years, from baby pics to school photos to sports shots and prom nights. It’s my Wall of Fame.

There’s also the green lava lamp in the corner bubbling away. I call it Andy’s Lava Lounge – something of a respite during a hectic day.

Tell me about the people who have been most influential in your career.

There have been many, from the professors in my journalism program to the husband and wife team I worked for in a bagel deli back in school.

You can learn from everyone you interact or associate with if you’re willing to listen.

What traits does a person need to succeed in your position?

Flexibility is certainly needed. Humor doesn’t hurt either.

Can you tell us something about yourself that your team would be surprised to know?

I absolutely cannot carry a tune; although, my kids know that pretty well.

Why did you go into marketing?

I grew up close to Lake Tahoe, and after I received a degree in Journalism from the University of Nevada, I made a beeline to Tahoe and took a job in marketing. I guess it was really an excuse to live in Tahoe.

What other career would you like to try and why?

Craft brewer – I dabble in my own beer making now and then, but to jump in the kettle with both feet would something of a dream. Beer and food, two of my favorite pastimes.

What’s the last business book you read?

Destination Leadership for Boards by Bill Geist, a great review of where successful tourism destination organizations are heading (and where they should not).

Hot August Nights ready to pack the streets Guy Clifton, RGJ10:01 p.m. PDT July 19, 2014

Streets throughout the area are about to take on a retro look as Hot August Nights — the region's largest special event — kicks off its 28th year on Friday with two days at South Lake Tahoe before cruising to the valley floor on July 29 for six days of classic cars and music.

Organizers are expecting 6,000 registered classic cars to fill venues across the Truckee Meadows along with a similar number of unregistered car enthusiasts who simply enjoy the week of nostalgia.

The event brings with it national television exposure and visitors who come from around the country, Canada and beyond.

"Autoweek magazine came out this year and said there are three events every car enthusiast should have on their bucket list — Monaco, 24 Hours of Le Mans and Hot August Nights," said Tony Marini, Hot August Nights executive director. "That was huge for us. It shows that we're becoming a mustsee destination in the industry."

Last year, Hot August Nights teamed with auction giant Barrett-Jackson and launched the inaugural Barrett-Jackson Cup, a "show-n-shine on steroids" that attracted some of the industry's top car builders. This year's prize purse has grown to more than $100,000 in cash and prizes, part of more than $170,000 that will be awarded at various competitions throughout the week at Hot August Nights.

The second annual Hot August Nights Auction presented by Barrett-Jackson will have 400 to 500 vehicles on the block at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and brings with it more than 20 hours of live television coverage, plus dozens of hours of repeat showings.

"It's the Super Bowl of car auctions," Marini said. "It's the best of the best."

Last year, August produced record visitors and record room rates at area hotels, with Hot August Nights and Barrett-Jackson the driving forces behind it. While the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority doesn't forecast visitors, it does expect strong numbers, especially with those events and the Barracuda Championship (formerly the Reno-Tahoe Open) overlapping this year.

"With the nationally broadcast Barrett-Jackson Auction expecting even more spectators and cars during Hot August Nights this year, and the Barracuda Championship golf tournament happening the

same week, a record average room rate for Washoe County is a distinct possibility," said Chris Baum, RSCVA President and CEO. This year's Hot August Nights venues include downtown Reno, Victorian Square in Sparks, the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center, Grand Sierra Resort, Peppermill, Atlantis, Nugget and the Bonanza Casino, which hosts the pre-kickoff party for RenoSparks on July 27.

"It's everything people have come to expect and want," Marini said. "We have a couple of new additions that we're excited about."

One of those additions is Auto Cross, which will be held at the Livestock Events Center grounds. It allows participants to take their own cars through an obstacle course.

"It's like drag racing on steroids," Marini said.

Ride-and-drive events, in which the public is invited to ride with a professional driver in new model Ford and GM cars on a closed course, return this year as well. Participants' reactions to the highspeed, tight-turned driving is recorded on an in-car camera and can be emailed to them immediately after the ride.

Here is a rundown on some of the highlights of this year's Hot August Nights.

Entertainment The sounds of the 1950s and '60s will always be a part of Hot August Nights, but this year also brings an addition designed for the country fans. That would be Country Night at the Victorian Square stage on Aug. 1.

Country Night will be headlined by recording artist Darryl Worley, perhaps best known for his No. 1 hit, "Have You Forgotten," a post-9/11 anthem that spent seven weeks atop the Billboard Hot Country charts. Worley has also had No. 1 hits with "I Miss My Friend," and "Awful Beautiful Life," along with 18 songs that have made the top 40.

"It's about listening to our participants," Marini said about adding Country Night to the Hot August Nights lineup. "We have a lot of country music fans."

The free entertainment takes place nightly starting July 29 on stages at Victorian Square and at the Grand Sierra Resort. Longtime performers including Ronnie & The Classics (July 29), Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone (July 31) and Bill Medley of the Righteous Brothers (Aug. 2) will perform at the Grand Sierra Resort; as will a number of tribute bands that bring the sounds of Chicago, Motown, Tina Turner and others.

Several of the major hotels in town also have top-name performers in their showrooms during the week, including the Beach Boys at the Silver Legacy.

Barrett-Jackson Cup and auction For the second year in a row, Hot August Nights has teamed with Barrett-Jackson to award the top car in the downtown Reno show-n-shine.

This year's purse tops $100,000, with the "Ultimate Best in Show" winner receiving $30,000 in cash and nearly $30,000 more in prizes, including a GM crate engine and transmission valued at $15,000 and a Waterloo tool chest and Craftsman tools valued at $6,000.

Barrett-Jackson Cup judges Bobby Alloway, Pete Chapouris and Bob Millard will pick 25 cars from the downtown Reno show and shine car shows. These 25 cars will go to the downtown ballroom where the five top finalists will advance to the final ceremony. The winner will be announced on live national television during the Barrett-Jackson auction on Aug. 2.

Marini said the cash and prizes are nice, but it's the prestige that comes with winning the BarrettJackson Cup that is drawing top car builders from around the country to Reno.

"You would think the cash prizes would be on the minds of the participants, and while the cash prizes are hefty, what's really at stake are the bragging rights of winning and showing off that trophy," he said.

Any classic car owners who still want to register for Hot August Nights can do so. Marini said that last year, about 300 car owners registered during the event, many who simply wanted to participate in the cruises or to attend the Barrett-Jackson auction. All registered Hot August Nights participants can attend the auction for free.

HOT AUGUST NIGHTS WHEN: July 25-26 in South Lake Tahoe; July 29-Aug. 3 in Reno/Sparks WHERE: Venues across the region, including downtown Reno, Victorian Square in Sparks, Atlantis, Peppermill, Grand Sierra Resort, Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center REGISTRATION: Still being accepted for classic cars 1976 or older DETAILS:www. hotaugustnights.net HOT AUGUST NIGHTS 2014 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

FRIDAY, JULY 25 TAHOE SOUTH 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Show-n-Shines – Ski Run Blvd. & Heavenly Village 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Vendor Exhibits – Ski Run Blvd.

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. OPEN Cruise: Right on Kale Parkway – Right on Heavenly Village Way – Right on Highway 50 ENTERTAINMENT – TAHOE SOUTH Ski Run Blvd.

10 a.m. to 7 p.m. DJ Steve West Heavenly Village Outdoor Stage 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. DJ Rich West 5 pm. to 9 p.m. Delta Nove SATURDAY, JULY 26 TAHOE SOUTH 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Show-n-Shines – Ski Run Blvd. & Heavenly Village 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Vendor Exhibits – Ski Run Blvd.

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. OPEN Cruise: Right on Kale Parkway – Right on Heavenly Village Way – Right on Highway 50 ENTERTAINMENT – TAHOE SOUTH Ski Run Blvd.

10 a.m. to 7 p.m. DJ Steve West Heavenly Village

More than just Yoga: Wanderlust a feast for the senses Regina Bradley,8:03 a.m. PDT July 18, 2014

The sixth-annual Wanderlust Festival in Squaw Valley that commenced earlier this week with a yoga teacher-training course is more than just a weekend filled with yoga classes, flexible students and sweaty mats.

Jeff Krasno, co-founder of Wanderlust, even goes as far to call it a "gateway drug" for yoga.

Somewhere in between the Standup Paddle Board yoga classes and the High Camp pool parties and roller-rink discos at 8,200 feet, a festival-goer might discover that there's more to yoga than the poses.

It's a lifestyle.

"When we began the event we were just very focused on bringing in the yoga teachers and providing a lot of yoga classes in conjunction with music and nature," Krasno said. "As we grew and the event became more stable, we got the opportunity to be more creative and add more of what we think is going to be yoga lifestyle things that are interesting and going to be compelling to yogis that aren't just about practice."

The festival includes lectures on topics that pertain to the mindful life, Namaste rafting, meditation hikes and farm-to-table dinners hosted at Squaw Valley's High Camp.

"Our hope is that it can be the most fun you can possibly have while doing something that's good for yourself," Krasno said. "My hope is that people come here and discover some sort of little gem of wisdom or bit of inspiration that they can take back into their home community and really live a better and happier life, a more inspired life."

Wanderlust hosts festivals at 17 venues worldwide, including festivals in British Colombia, New Zealand and Hawaii. Squaw Valley was the first festival and remains the largest in terms of attendees and scope.

"At it's greatest potential, Wanderlust can be transformational for people and on the most humble level at least it can be a whole lot of fun for people."

Melissa Martinez-Chauvin is a Reno yoga instructor at The Studio and is teaching for her second consecutive year at the Wanderlust Festival.

Martinez-Chauvin has attended Wanderlust for the past four years, although this year's experience will be a little different. She and her husband, Daniyel, had their first child, Jai Bodhi, in May and the festival marks her return to teaching yoga classes.

"Of course it crosses my mom that I've been doing mom-asana for six weeks straight and now I'm about to jump into a festival, it definitely crosses my mind," Martinez-Chauvin said.

"For me it's just about being present, connecting with people. It's not about demonstrating, it's about inspiring and I think that (having a baby) in and of itself can be inspiring and that women can still feel powerful in any stage in life and I felt it was something I could show up for and just be myself."

Martinez-Chauvin taught a yoga class on Thursday afternoon at the festival and is teaching a class today called "Ujjayi Breathing & Your Heart Beating" at 2 p.m. A live DJ accompanies the class, which Martinez describes as a fun, yoga, and dance party.

Her classes offer a Bhakti Flow type practice, which includes chanting and MartinezChauvin credits Wanderlust for one of the reasons that she transitioned from teaching Bikram yoga to the type of classes she leads today.

"Wanderlust actually opened my eyes and blew my doors off," she said. "You can approach the practice from all these different perspectives and it really opened my eyes and that sent me further into the studentship and I went into some different trainings and I just ended up traveling and going to trainings for a few years."

Wanderlust is geared to provide an enlightening experience for both the beginning yogi and the advanced. While one class is beating to the drum of Beastie Boy jams, another is using nature's tunes for a sunset meditation hike.

"We consciously tried to push a more beginner and all-level program," Krasno said. "There are plenty of those. We have the Yoga for Dudes series. There are places where men can go and not feel completely unworthy and intimidated. We're definitely trying to make it open and offer something for everyone."

Live music performances go late into Friday and Saturday night and tickets for the festival can be purchased at the door or at http://squaw.wanderlustfestival.com/.

You have to add these 10 music festivals to your bucket list 716/2014 Yes, we know SXSW, Bumbershoot and Coachella (and Coachella’s country cousin, Stagecoach) are all amazing music festivals, but you can’t overlook these awesome, yet lesser known, festivals from around the U.S. 10. Wanderlust Festival

The Wanderlust Festival brings together musical acts with awesome yoga instructors to create a summer festival in Squaw Valley, California that is sure to bring on the Zen. In other words, swap out your jean shorts for Lululemon.

Activities include all-night chakra-spinning musical performances and early morning meditations. Sounds pretty perfect for the new-age festivalgoer.

Thousands Celebrate Independence Day A Day Early in North Tahoe Posted: Jul 04, 2014 12:26 AM PDTUpdated: Jul 11, 2014 4:24 PM PDT

Some people couldn't wait to celebrate Independence Day. Thousands of people went to Kings Beach in Lake Tahoe on Thursday to celebrate a day early as the North Tahoe Business Association hosted a beach party complete with a fireworks show.

"A lot of people are here," said Harry Traback of Homewood, California. "Lot of food, lot of different things."

"This is our third time coming out," said Georgy Pike of Carson City. "We love the deck party, it's fun. Last year, they didn't do a deck party, and we kind of missed out. This year, we're glad it came back."

People had a chance to compete in different events, starting with a sand castle building contest. Then, things got a little messy during the watermelon-eating contests. People were also judged on how their outfit reflected the spirit of the holiday in patriotic costume contests.

Of course, many waited hours for the main attraction... the fireworks!

"We've been coming to the Kings Beach fireworks show for about the last 12 years," said Bill Poland of Carnelian Bay. "We wouldn't miss this for the world because it's a great display of patriotism, and our love for our country."

By the time nightfall hit, everyone was in place to watch a spectacular show full of different colors and sparkles.

This fireworks show was completely funded by grants and donations from different organizations and individuals.

Destination: Lake Tahoe Beyond the Blue Sure, Lake Tahoe is a looker. But there’s a world of beauty beyond its shores, too, especially in the gloriously gaudy days of autumn.

BY TINA LASSEN

Oh, we get it, we do—America’s largest mountain lake can be quite a temptress: the way the dragonfly-blue water shimmers, reflecting the serrated Sierras; those bewitching beaches and smooth granite boulders that rim the shores; the waterfront restaurants with their rowdy piers and cocktail hours. But really, there’s more. Look up from Lake Tahoe and its well-traveled waterfront to discover a host of new temptations up above the lake.

North Side: Recreation All Around Many visitors to Tahoe arrive from the north via Interstate 80 from Reno (40 miles northeast) or Sacramento (100 miles southwest). The thriving town of Truckee marks the gateway to the Tahoe basin, where the Truckee River flows north from the lake through a pine-scented canyon. A paved bike path parallels the burbling waters for a pleasant 5.5-mile ride from the Squaw Valley ski resort to the lakefront at Tahoe City. Locals favor traveling the same stretch of river by raft or inner tube, gliding over gravel bars in an impromptu party. (Rentals are available at Truckee River Rafting in Tahoe City.) Take out at theRiver Ranch Lodge, which conveniently serves craft beer and the region’s best nachos.

Several designer golf courses hide among the Tahoe pines, but none can match the charms of Old Brockway, in Kings Beach. Bing Crosby, Dwight Eisenhower and the Rat Pack used to tee off at this tree-lined course, which manages to celebrate both nostalgia and the game, having long drives and tight, sloping greens. Nearby Coyote Moon Golf Course also brings unique appeal, rolling through quintessential Sierra scenery.

Memorable views abound along the Tahoe Rim Trail, a 165-mile route that encircles the lake. Hikers can reach many segments for out-and-back day trips. At Brockway Summit on California Highway 267, sample a five-mile stretch of the trail (or drive up a nearby dirt road) to the Martis Peak Lookout, a Forest Service fire tower perched high atop a granite slab. All of Lake Tahoe’s 21-mile length spills out to the south, hemmed in by a horizon of mountain peaks. Pack a lunch and soak it all in for a while.

West Side: High Sierra Hikes Tahoe’s mountain scenery is at its most majestic above the lake’s western shore, where the Sierras rise to nearly 10,000 feet. You’ll need to lace up some hiking boots to enjoy it, since much of the area is roadless federal wilderness. It’s worth every step to reach high alpine lakes, looming granite pinnacles and meadows that may still be sprouting wildflowers. Plus, late summer and autumn is the only time you get the keys to this kingdom: It’s usually buried in snow from November into July.

Near Sunnyside, Ward Creek Boulevard leads west from California Highway 89 to a trailhead two miles inland. The trail north into Page Meadow puts on one of Tahoe’s best wildflower shows in late summer.

In autumn, follow the Tahoe Rim Trail west, a 3.3-mile route that climbs alongside Ward Creek through meadows and aspens to 30-foot McCloud Falls. Turn around here, or continue another 2.5 miles up a steep, switchbacking route toward Twin Peaks and the Pacific Crest Trail. It’s a well-earned panorama of deep canyons, broad fields and the scissored peaks of the wild Sierras.

For another adventure, head to Emerald Bay, on Tahoe’s southwest shore. Hike west from the Eagle Falls picnic area. This popular route leads to Eagle Lake, tucked among the talus slopes. It’s lovely, and just a taste of the trio of lakes that awaits under the imposing face of 9,974-foot Dick’s Peak, in Desolation Wilderness, another four miles along the trail.

South Side: Cowboy Country From South Lake Tahoe, 89 follows one of the few natural routes out of the lake basin, exchanging the bold blue of Tahoe for the bright gold of aspens as it climbs and dips through high passes and saddles.

At Hope Valley, fluorescent aspen groves border California Highway 88, which bends south and skyward toward 8,573-foot Carson Pass.

All sorts of activities line this scenic road: horseback riding, mountain biking, paddling or fishing small alpine lakes, and ziplining at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. The same is true of California Highways 89 and 4 east of Hope Valley. The area draws fly fishermen to the famed East Fork of the Carson, visitors to the sweet 19th-century silver-rush town of Markleeville, and anyone who loves cruising among sublime mountain scenery.

If you head north instead of south from Hope Valley, 88 eventually descends into Nevada’s gaping Carson Valley. The Old West still echoes loudly here, where Kit Carson forged new routes up into the Sierras, where the Pony Express galloped across the high desert, and where everyone from Teddy Roosevelt to Mark Twain made their way to David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort. You can still soak in those same natural mineral springs, seeping and steaming out of the Earth’s crust into six outdoor pools, all with views of the cowboy countryside.

East Side: Historic Riches The Gold Rush never really ended in Virginia City, perched high on a ridge atop the Comstock Lode, one of the richest ore deposits ever found. Some $300 million in silver and gold was pulled from these mountainsides in the 1860s, making Virginia City one of the wealthiest cities in the nation, credited with spurring the growth of Nevada and the city of San Francisco. A young reporter at the Territorial Enterprise newspaper arrived here as one Samuel Clemens and left a few years later as Mark Twain.

Look beyond Virginia City’s trinket shops to find some gems, from old saloons to mine tours and the little basement museum displaying Twain’s desk. The Virginia & Truckee Railroadfires up its steam locomotive for open-air narrated train tours to Gold Hill or Carson City, showcasing old mining routes and the occasional herd of wild horses. Virginia City also delights in hosting kooky events, including the International Camel and Ostrich Races(first weekend in September) and the World Championship Outhouse Races (first weekend in October).

Driving north toward Reno, the high desert climate of the Washoe Valley seems a world away from the pine forests and mountain streams around Lake Tahoe. Yet it lies just over the Carson Range. Circle back via the Mount Rose Scenic Byway (Nevada Highway 431), a wonderfully snaky route that twists through an impressionistic swirl of autumn colors. Suddenly, a striking view appears around a hairpin turn: the oh-so-blue beauty of Lake Tahoe, welcoming you back.

EAT 1862 David Walley’s Restaurant and Saloon Entrees include elk rack with beurre blanc. 2001 Foothill Rd., Genoa, NV; 775-7830788;1862davidwalleysresort.com; dinner for two, $85* Kirkwood Inn & Saloon Mountain trout, New York strip steak and chicken-and-dumplings. 1501 Kirkwood Meadows Dr., Kirkwood, CA; 209-258-7304; kirkwood.com; dinner for two, $55 River Ranch Lodge A seasonal menu served on the banks of the Truckee River. 2285 River Rd., Tahoe City, CA; 866-9919912; riverranchlodge.com; dinner for two, $70 Stella Worldly flavors, like ahi sashimi with Berber spices. Cedar House Sport Hotel, 10918 Brockway Rd., Truckee, CA; 530-582-5655; cedarhousesporthotel.com; dinner for two, $90 Stonefly Pizzas from a wood-fired oven. 14821 Calif. Hwy. 89, Markleeville, CA; 530-6949999;stoneflyrestaurant.com; dinner for two, $60 *Prices have been converted to U.S. dollars. Estimated meal prices do not include drinks, tax or tip.

PLAY Coyote Moon Golf Course 10685 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA; 530-5870886;coyotemoongolf.com; green fees, from $100 International Camel and Ostrich Races visitvirginiacitynv.com Kirkwood Mountain Resort 1501 Kirkwood Meadows Dr., Kirkwood, CA; 209-2586000;kirkwood.com Old Brockway 400 Brassie Ave., Kings Beach, CA; 530-546-9909; oldbrockway.com; green fees, from $30 Truckee River Rafting 175 River Rd., Tahoe City, CA; 530-583-1111;truckeeriverrafting.com; rentals, from $35 a person World Championship Outhouse Races visitvirginiacitynv.com EXPLORE Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake Trail www.fs.usda.gov Tahoe Rim Trail tahoerimtrail.org Virginia and Truckee Railroad F St. Depot, Virginia City, NV; virginiatruckee.com; 775-847-0380; roundtrip ride, from $48

RELAX David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort 2001 Foothill Rd., Genoa, NV; 888-772-1862;davidwalleysresort.com; day passes, $30 STAY RCI affiliated resorts in and near Lake Tahoe include: Americana Village 0485 A lodge-style resort with a recreation area, dry sauna, Jacuzzi and heated outdoor pool.3845 Pioneer Trail, South Lake Tahoe Lake Tahoe Vacation Resort 4066 Located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, this resort offers an array of activities from hiking to skiing. 901 Ski Run Blvd., South Lake Tahoe Tahoe Seasons Resort 2627 This hilltop resort offers scenic views of mountains as well as forests. 2901 Saddle Rd., South Lake Tahoe Tahoe Beach & Ski Club 0924 Enjoy 400 feet of beach as well as a game room at this resort, on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe. 3601 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe Stardust—Tahoe 0515 Homemade cookies at check-in are just one of the many ways this lodge delivers the comforts of home. 4061 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe The Lodge at Lake Tahoe 1101 A small, family-friendly resort with a year-round outdoor spa. 3840 Pioneer Trail, South Lake Tahoe The Lodge at Kingsbury Crossing 7506 A boutique lodge in the heart of Heavenly Valley. 133 Deer Run Court, Stateline For member reviews and additional resort listings, visit RCI.com or call 800-338-7777 (Weeks) or 877-968-7476 (Points). Club Members, please call your specific Club or RCI telephone number.

Non-RCI affiliated resorts: West Shore Café and Inn A six-room inn and café. 5160 West Lake Blvd., Homewood, CA; 530-525-5200;westshorecafe.com; doubles from $229 a night The Landing Resort and Spa Lake Tahoe’s newest boutique hotel. 4104 Lakeshore Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA; 855-7005263; thelandingtahoe.com; doubles from $209 a night The Cedar House Sport Hotel Contemporary boutique hotel. 10918 Brockway Rd., Truckee, CA; 866-5825655;cedarhousesporthotel.com; doubles from $170 a night

Kings Beach fireworks follow beach party ahead of the Fourth of July July 7, 2014

Kings Beach will again get into the Independence Day spirit early with its annual July 3 fireworks celebration and beach party.

The happenings start at 4 p.m. outside the North Tahoe Event Center at 8318 North Lake Blvd. and conclude with a 15-minute fireworks display over Lake Tahoe.

“We try to make it fun and all inclusive,” said Joy Doyle, executive director of the North Tahoe Business Association, of the more than 35-year-old celebration. “It’s just one of the best beaches in Tahoe.”

The event is open to all ages and features food vendors, a beer/wine/mixed drink garden, free watermelon eating, sand-castle building, a patriotic-costume contest, games, music and live entertainment.

“Beach Party entrance is free and will take place outside of the North Tahoe Event Center with a spectacular view of Lake Tahoe and the fireworks can be viewed anywhere from Kings Beach State Recreation Area, one of the most popular and best beaches around the lake,” according to a press release for the event.

Thousands of visitors attended the show each year.

“It’s just a lot of fun,” she added.

Fireworks are scheduled to start at 9:30 p.m.

“This is absolutely 100 percent open to the public and free of charge to participate in anything,” Doyle said.

Due to limited parking, people are encouraged to ride a bike or take public transportation to the event. Information on public transportation options is available at www.laketahoetransit.com. Drivers should allow 15-30 minutes for parking and getting to the beach ahead of the fireworks, Doyle said.

Preferred seating for the display, for $12, is likely to sell out prior to the event. Those who purchase the seating can secure seats starting at 4 p.m. and will have access to indoor restrooms at the North Tahoe Event Center.

The days festivities act as a fundraiser for the fireworks show, which costs approximately $1000 per minute. “To offset the high cost, North Tahoe Business Association puts on a Beach Party as a fundraiser and invites everyone to attend and support the fireworks at this fun, community celebration,� Doyle said in the press release.

Volunteers are also needed to help with checking IDs, taking tickets, security, selling merchandise, collecting donations and breakdown. Volunteers are asked to work a fourhour shift and will receive a free drink coupon redeemable at Music on the Beach in Kings Beach.

Billy Ray Cyrus Honors Michael Landsberry at Concert Posted: Jul 06, 2014 12:03 PM PDTUpdated: Jul 06, 2014 12:03 PM PDT

RENO, Nev. (AP) -- Billy Ray Cyrus has honored a Nevada teacher killed by a student in a school-yard shooting, calling him a "true American hero."

The country singer praised Michael Landsberry and presented a memorial plaque to his widow, Sharon, during a concert Saturday night in Incline Village.

The 45-year-old ex-Marine tried to talk the shooter into turning over the handgun before he was shot in the chest Oct. 21 at a middle school in the Reno suburb of Sparks. The 12-year-old shooter wounded two classmates before taking his life.

Cyrus says Landsberry made the "ultimate sacrifice" to save his students after serving three terms in Afghanistan and represents the courage of the Vietnam veteran honored in his patriotic song, "Some Gave All." Cyrus led the crowd in singing the song after the presentation.

Drought, heat, calendar yield massive Tahoe 4th crowds Ray Hagar, RGJ10:41 p.m. PDT July 4, 2014

The western drought, oppressive heat in the lower valleys and the lure of a three-day weekend combined to attract large crowds to the Lake Tahoe basin over this July Fourth weekend.

Tourism officials had an inkling that the crowds were coming since the hotel occupancy forecast was up 16 percent compared to July of last year, Andy Chapman, chief marketing officer for the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, said Thursday.

But Friday, crowds hit with a boom, filling up and closing down the parking lot to the popular Sand Harbor beach within 30 minutes of opening Friday, employees and beachgoers said.

"It's been crazy," said lifeguard Matt Paulsen. "The beach is filled up. We were completely full by 9 a.m."

Added Alexandria Perez, a cosmetologist for Reno: "I think it gets progressively busier and busier each year. This is the first year we haven't been able to find parking here (at Sand Harbor). We had to take the shuttle, and we were here by 8:30 a.m."

It's crowded, sure, but Tahoe, being the natural gem that it is, is worth the trouble, others said.

"It is what it is," Natalie Nicholson of Reno. "You deal with the crowds because it is absolutely beautiful up here. The weather is nice. Most of the people are nice. As long as you can deal with the crowds and be patient, it is worth it."

Saturday and Sunday are not expected to be as busy, but it remains to be seen. Martin Jimenez, who was managing the overflow parking lots for the East Shore Express shuttle to Sand Harbor, expected the beach's parking lot to be full and closed by 10 a.m. Saturday "This weekend is our busiest weekend of the year for the East Shore Express," Jimenez said.

Indeed. The July Fourth weekend will help usher in a big month at Lake Tahoe, with the nationally televised American Century Championship Celebrity Golf Tournament, set for July 15 to 20 at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course.

It all points to a big, lucrative summer, Chapman said.

"You never know what happens as you go through your season," Chapman said. "A lot of factors could come into play to impact that, natural disaster, economic downturn ... but right now, we are very pleased and looking at the numbers we see, we do believe that we are going to have a very strong summer, another great summer for us."

The East Coast shuttle is a microcosm of the hustle and bustle of Tahoe's summer tourism. When the Sand Harbor parking lot fills up, it's the only way to get to the beach. The Express takes beachgoers from various parking lots in Incline Village down Nevada 28 to Sand Harbor.

People were packed like sardines — up to 60 in a bus, a driver said — for the short trip. Running from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, it is estimated that the Express will ferry more than 3,000 people to the water's edge.

"I'd say that (estimate) would be pretty close," Express bus driver Steve Niccum said. "We probably had almost 10 buses that were packed, 60 people to each bus. So that's 600 people and that was only from 10 a.m. to now (noon)."

Niccum credited the three-day weekend for bringing the crowds.

"It brings a lot more people in being on a Friday, instead of the Fourth being on a mid-week day, where you get a day off then work two days," he said.

Chapman agreed but also mentioned the high temperatures in the lowlands and the drought — which has ruined the recreational aspects of many smaller lakes and reservoirs on both sides of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

"It has been hot in the (Central) Valley," he said. "I drove through it a couple of days ago, and it was 109 degrees. So when you get those types of temperatures, that helps drive the business, too, because people can come up here. It's pretty easy to get to. The higher elevation, access to water, all those things are lining up for us."

Some of the beachgoers noted that the western drought has dried up much of Folsom Lake, a reservoir about 25 miles northeast of Sacramento.

"Folsom is pretty dry, it has two rivers but unless you have a boat, it's not that much fun," said Jesse McCoy, 40, of Sacramento.

Chapman also mentioned Lake Berryessa, a reservoir in Napa County, as a water-recreation area that has suffered from the drought. East of Reno, the Lahotan State Recreational Center near Fallon is also suffering from lack of water.

"Certainly the drought is a factor up here," Chapman said. "Access to water in California has become troublesome. Whether it is Folsom Lake —and not to disparage it by any means —Lake Berryessa or some of the other ones you would typically go to, you can't launch your boat there. And even if you could, you are looking at scenery with a bathtub ring, so to speak, because the water is so far down."

Friday at Tahoe, many boats were visible, with their white wakes temporarily upsetting the calm blue waters of the mountain lake.

"Tahoe still has the upper hand from that standpoint because (boat) launches are still available," Chapman said. "Certainly we have seen the effect of the drought up here but it hasn't limited the access to the lake."

While many were lured to the beaches at Tahoe, its waters were not so crowded.

Despite the warm weather, the water remains cold. That is to be expected. Rain and snowmelt runoff from many mountain tributaries in Tahoe's watershed makes up about 65 percent of Tahoe's waters, according to the Tahoe Fund, a nonprofit source of private funding for environmental projects.

"The water temperature at the surface is about 58 degrees right now," said Paulsen, the Sand Harbor lifeguard. "It is warming up with the weather we are getting. But it is still pretty cold."

Getting in the water is a way to escape the crowds, said Harrison Kincaid, 11, from Decatur, Ala.

"When we are out in the water, it's not (crowded) because not everybody is going to be in the water because it's too cold in Tahoe," Kincaid said. "But on the beach, sometimes, yes, because so many people are just crowding around and things. Some parts (of the beach) are not crowded, but some mostly are."

While Tahoe's waters are cold and wet, the surrounding area is dry. And that presents a possible problem, Chapman said.

"One of the things we always tell our visitors is to be fire-safe," he said. "There are no fireworks allowed in the (Tahoe) Basin. It is a very strict rule, one that the fire district and law enforcement will come down very heavy on, and that is strictly because of the fire dangers and the issues that are out there."

He also wants visitors to relax.

"Give yourself a little bit of extra time," Chapman said. "It's a holiday. Don't be rushed. There are a lot of people up here, so come and enjoy it."

Festivities Planned For 4th Of July In Northern Nevada And California Posted: Fri 10:29 PM, Jul 04, 2014 RENO, NV - There are plenty of activities for the Fourth of July across northern Nevada and California. KOLO 8 News Now has you covered so you can decide where to enjoy the fireworks and festivities.

--John Ascuaga's Nugget will host the 15th annual Star Spangled Sparks fireworks show and 4th of July celebration!

Complimentary shuttles will provide round-trip transportation from Legends to the RTC Centennial Plaza at Victorian Square during the event. Shuttles will pick up guests in the large dirt lot between Fuddruckers and Popeye's starting at 4 p.m. Shuttles will run continuously throughout the event until after the fireworks show.

Children will delight in the face painters, clowns and magicians roaming the square, as well as an array of rides and activities. The Kids' Area will be located on Victorian Plaza, adjacent to Century Theatres, and will include games, a super slide and mechanical rides. Ride tickets will be available for purchase just outside the Kids' Area.

Live music from the main stage (located toward the West End of Victorian Avenue) will keep the crowd dancing into the evening. West Bay Rhythm will be providing live entertainment from 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Emily Hammer will be singing the National Anthem prior to the start of the fireworks show.

KOLO's news partner, News Talk 780 KOH will broadcast live with music and you can tune in to hear music corresponding with the fireworks.

--Rail City Casino is planning a 4th of July Festival in its parking lot in an effort to offset the loss of the popular event that had been hosted for years at the Sparks Marina. The City of Sparks recently announced it would no longer be hosting the event.

Many of the vendors and participants from past events will host the activities in the east side parking lot starting at 2pm on Friday, July 4th. Activities include a rock climbing wall, face painting, crafters, karaoke, food & beverage, basketball, and kids' games. There will also be a dunk tank, which will allow guests to try to dunk members of the Rail City management team.

--"Reno Celebrates America" will run from 2pm-9:30pm at Wingfield Park on July 4th. Daytime family activities will include watermelon and pie eating contests, live music from Jakki Ford, Jake's Garage, the Reno Jazz Band and the Reno Municipal Band.

Organizers of “Reno Celebrates America” are inviting veterans of all service branches, their families and friends to participate in celebrating our nation's freedom while recognizing those who served to defend it. A tribute for veterans is set for 7pm.

--Virginia City, Nevada offers one of the region's longest firework displays. Echoing off Mt. Davidson for nearly 30 minutes, you'll feel the boom in your bones this July 4 as the fireworks soar high above the town and into Six Mile Canyon, making it visible from nearly anywhere in town. · 12 p.m. - Fourth of July Parade: Parade starts from the south at the Fourth Ward School and is scheduled to last approximately an hour and a half. · 1 - 5 p.m. Shoot-Out on the Hill: Taking place across from the Fourth Ward School at the south end of town, this event gives you a chance to be a real cowboy. Guns, ammo and safety instruction provided. Tickets, $35, are available on C Street in front of the Bucket of Blood Saloon or the Ponderosa Saloon. · 6 p.m. - Comstock Cowboys Second Amendment Concert: This fan-favorite, held outdoors in the Delta parking lot next to the Bucket of Blood Saloon, returns for the 15th year. · 7 p.m. - Raffle: Tickets are available starting at 9 a.m. at the booth in the center of town near the Virginia City Visitors Center. Prizes include a rifle and a shotgun. · 7:45 p.m. - Comstock Cowboys Second Amendment Concert continues: Held in the Delta parking lot next to the Bucket of Blood Saloon.

After Dark - Fireworks Spectacular at Miner's Park: Located at Carson and F Streets, bring blankets and picnics to cap off the day's activities. No alcohol or glass permitted at the park.

--Members of the community will be able to celebrate Independence Day at Lake Tahoe, while leaving the driving to RTC. The Regional Transportation Commission’s new weekend and holiday service to Sand Harbor will be operating on July 4th.

Passengers can relax on a coach bus departing either from Meadowood Mall or the Summit Mall.

The cash fare is $5 each way for adults, and passengers must have the exact amount. The fare covers your admission into the park.

Please note the final bus to bring people back to Reno on Independence Day departs Lake Tahoe at 7 p.m.

The RTC Sand Harbor service also enables passengers to connect to TART (Tahoe Area Regional Transit), which is operated by Placer County, California.

--Incline Village is proud to host the eighth annual Red, White and Tahoe Blue Festival July 3-5 featuring live performances by Billy Ray Cyrus and the Reno Philharmonic. A full calendar of 25 events spans the three days making this an Independence Day spectacular for the whole family.

Bring the kids out for the Children's Patriotic Chalk Drawing, Ice Cream Eating Contest, Kids' Bike Parade and more. For the adults, head over to the Wine and Dine dinner or Beer and Brats event.

Live music heats up the beach July 3 and 4, but moves to Village Green on July 5 for Billy Ray Cyrus.

--The Tahoe City Downtown Association announces a full afternoon of activities for friends and families leading up to a spectacular fireworks display off of Commons Beach on Friday, July 4.

From the Boatworks Mall to the Cobblestone Center to Gatekeeper's Museum and all points in between, Tahoe City offers visitors and residents a summer day like no other. Tahoe City's July Fourth Fun Zone, located in Truckee-Tahoe Lumber Co.'s parking lot at 315 North Lake Boulevard, will included a dunk tank, bean bag toss, putting green and additional games.

Penney the Clown will be on site, face painting and there will be live music performed by Kip Yager from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sashay to Gatekeeper’s Museum for Lake Tahoe Dance Festival July 3, 2014

TAHOE/TRUCKEE, Calif. — Lake Tahoe native and founding artistic director of the Tahoe Youth Ballet Christin Hanna and frequent collaborator Constantine Baecher, formerly with the Royal Danish Ballet, are proud to announce the second annual Lake Tahoe Dance Festival, July 15-17 at the Gatekeeper’s Museum in William B. Layton Park on Lake Tahoe’s shoreline.

The Festival, hosted by the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society, will feature three days of events and three nights of performances. The Lake Tahoe Dance Festival will get underway with a Tuesday, July 15 with a Gala Opening Night Celebration of dinner, a special performance and a swing dance lesson for all.

The following Main Stage performances on July 16 and 17 will include free, educational preperformance talks.

Be mesmerized by modern dance pioneer Erick Hawkins and choreographers Bryan Arias, Deborah Lohse and Deborah Wingert works.

Guest dancers will include Baecher, who now directs the Cross Connection Ballet and the Copenhagen International Ballet Choreography Competition; Arias, powerhouse dancer previously with Nederlands Dance Theatre and Kidd Pivot, a Canadian-based contemporary dance company; Kristina Berger, formerly with Erick Hawkins Dance, performing a rarely seen Hawkins work; and Deborah Lohse, freelance choreographer and member of Doug Elkins Company.

The Festival presents state-of-the-art professional dance and dance instruction in North Lake Tahoe to promote the art of dance, to enrich the private and community lives of the residents and to establish Tahoe as a cultural destination.

The Lake Tahoe Dance Festival is a project of Tahoe Youth Ballet, founded in 2009 by Hanna, who returned to her native Lake Tahoe after a career performing with ballet companies in New York City.

The company boasts a sophisticated repertory of approximately 20 contemporary and classical works, choreographed by guest dancemakers commissioned to set or create their work on Tahoe’s talented artists.

The Lake Tahoe Dance Festival is grateful for support from the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society, the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, the Sierra Sun and the Weekly. Main Stage Performances are presented through the gracious sponsorship of Alpenglow Sports.

Wednesday/Thursday Main Stage Performances offer free pre-performance talks at 5:30 p.m. at the Gatekeeper’s Museum, 130 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City. Ticket costs are July 15 Gala Opening, $50; July 16 and 17 Main Stage performances, $20 in advance; $25 at the door, or purchase a VIP table for six, with wine and snacks for $200, picnics from Uncommon Kitchen available with advance ticket purchase.

For tickets go to http://laketahoedancefestival2014.brownpapertickets.com or the North Lake Tahoe Visitors Center in Tahoe City.

Flags, fireworks, fun: Fourth of July weekend events

By Compiled by Genny Howe Published: Thursday, Jul. 3, 2014 - 12:00 am THURSDAY, JULY 3 Fireworks Jubilee The fifth annual Fireworks Jubilee includes the El Dorado Hills Fire Department’s community parade, Badge to Badge chili cook-off, kid’s area with bounce houses, live music on three stages, and beer/wine. Foreverland (a Michael Jackson tribute) will be performing in the Steven Young Amphitheater. 6 p.m. Town Center, 4364 Town Center Blvd., El Dorado Hills. (916) 933-6699, ext. 204.

Beach Party Kings Beach holds its Fireworks and Beach Party 4-10 p.m. at the North Tahoe Event Center (8318 N. Lake Blvd.). The event will include food vendors; a beer/wine and mixed drink garden; free watermelon eating, sand castle building and patriotic costume contests; games; music and live entertainment; fireworks; glow toys and souvenirs and more. Preferred fireworks seating is available. Fireworks begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. $12. (530) 546-9000.

Torchlight Parade Benicia’s Independence Day parade stretches along First Street, and includes dancers, floats, clowns, and entertainment. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Benicia, First Street, Benicia. (707) 745-9791.

Oakland East Bay Symphony A family-friendly Independence Day Celebration led by the Oakland East Bay Symphony and Music Director Michael Morgan. The evening will include pre-performance entertainment, food and fireworks. 6:30 p.m. Craneway Pavilion, 1414 Harbour Way, South Richmond. Free. (510) 444-0801.

Patriotic Concert

“Blessed is the Nation,” a free patriotic concert followed by an old-fashioned ice cream social. 7 p.m. Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church, 11427 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks. Free. (916) 967-4784.

Music in the Mountains Music in the Mountains presents Happy Birthday, USA. A picnic and party on the lawn of the Nevada County fairgrounds. Enjoy patriotic tunes with the MIM Chorale and orchestra, a picnic and picnic table contest. With conductor Dawn Harms. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley. $20 advance; $25 at the gate; picnic tables $80. (530) 265-6124.

Colfax Independence Day Colfax hosts a laser light show and after dark entertainment with music and fire dancers. Starting at noon, there will be vendors, live music, a Little Patriots parade, and the Colfax Lions Parade at 6 p.m. Depot and North Main streets, Colfax. (530) 346-8888.

FRIDAY, JULY 4 Cal Expo’s Independence Day Cal Expo’s annual pyrotechnics display includes family-friendly activities preceding the main event.

Live music, bounce houses, face painting, food and beverages, topped off with fireworks (at approximately 9:30 p.m.). Admission is free, but a limited number of $10 reserved seats will be sold online at calexpo.com. 4:30-10 p.m. Cal Expo’s Miller Lite Grandstand, 1600 Exposition Blvd., Sacramento. (916) 263-3247.

A Salute to the Red, White and Blue Elk Grove’s festivities begin with the Stars and Strips Pancake Breakfast at 8 a.m. (Elk Grove Park Pavilion; $5 for ages 3 and older, $1 for children ages 2 and younger). Followed by the Elk Grove Rod Custom and Motorcycle Show, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Strauss Island). In addition, there’s a Bike and Pedal Parade, a one-mile cruise around the park, starting at 11 a.m. (the Elk Grove Park Pavilion); a concert at 4:30 p.m. featuring Rachel Steele, Road 88, Joy and Madness; and the grande fireworks display blasting off at 9:30 p.m. Elk Grove Regional Park, 9950 Elk Grove Florin Road, Elk Grove. Parking is $10. (916) 691-2489.

Fourth of July in Davis

The traditional fireworks extravaganza finale in Davis is preceded by free entertainment at the Community Park main stage starting at 5 p.m. The lineup includes entertainment by The Bottom Dwellers at 6:30 p.m.; Diego’s Umbrella at 8 p.m. Reading and National Anthem by City of Davis Poet Laureate Eve West Bessier at 9:35 p.m. Plus, there’s the 53rd annual Kiwanis Kiddie Parade (at 10 a.m.), Third Street. The Davis Bike Club’s annual Fourth of July Criterium will

feature bike racing action. The first race, Elite men 5, will begin at 7:30 a.m. and the last Elite 4 race will start at 4:20 p.m. Kids Fun Ride: Bicycle riders ages 9 and younger can ride in the free noncompetitive “Kid’s Fun Ride,” It 12:40 p.m. at the start/finish line on F Street at Third Street.

Davis Little League Pancake Breakfast will be held 7- 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Center (203 E. 14th St., $5). 5-10 p.m. Community Park, 1405 F St., Davis. Free. (530) 757-5602.

Rancho Cordova’s Celebration Rancho Cordova’s Fourth of July Celebration returns for its 20th year, with carnival rides, concerts, BMX show, festival food, free activities, booths, beer garden and fireworks show.

Run the All America City 5K at 9 a.m., stay for the parade at 10 a.m., and spend a day in Hagan Park. Dance the night away with Night Fever on stage, topped off with the Fireworks Spectacular. Parking is $10. Noon. Hagan Community Park, Chase Drive, Rancho Cordova. $2.

(916) 851-8818.

Carmichael’s Celebration Pancake breakfast, 7-11 a.m. at the Carmichael Park Clubhouse. The 56th annual Elk’s Club Parade kicks off at 10:30 a.m. Parade route starts at Fair Oaks and Marconi, and travels to Fair Oaks and Cypress Avenue. Evening festivities start at 7 p.m. at La Sierra Community Center with free children’s activities, music, food trucks, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Carmichael Park, 5750 Grant Ave., Carmichael. (916) 485-5322.

Music in the Park A free holiday concert by the Capitol Pops Concert Band. Plus, carnival games, bounce houses, and food vendors. 11 a.m. Royer Park, 110 Park Drive, Roseville. Free. (916) 786-7380.

Street Fair and Fireworks Show Celebrate Independence Day in Tahoe City with a street fair and fireworks show. Noon.

Downtown Tahoe City, 425 CA-28, Tahoe City. (530) 583-3348.

Picnic and Performance The Center for Spiritual Awareness presents the CSA Fourth of July Carnival: Picnic & Performance. A family-friendly event with activities such as bouncers, face painting, dunk tank; and at 1:30 p.m., CSA Teens will present America the Change; Generation Next Media will perform The Living Constitution: A Lively Look at the Creation of America. Noon. Center For Spiritual Awareness, 1275 Starboard Drive, West Sacramento. Carnival is free, $10 suggested for adults, $5 suggested for children for play. 818-458-6618.

SF Fourth of July San Francisco’s PIER 39 celebrates Independence Day with musical entertainment and activities in the Entrance Plaza. At approximately 9:30 p.m., fireworks explode over the San Francisco

Bay. Mobility from the USAF Band of the Golden West will perform noon-3 p.m. on the Entrance Plaza Stage. Tainted Love performs 5-8 p.m. (415) 981-7437.

Festival of Family Fun Every Independence Day needs an Uncle Sam and Jack London Square delivers with an Uncle Sam stilt walker, who will be among the many street performers. There also will be interactive activities, a petting zoo, and sidewalk chalk art. 7 p.m. Jack London Square, Broadway and Embarcadero, Oakland. Free. (510) 645-9292.

Let Freedom Ring Celebrate the Fourth of July on board the USS Hornet, with a day-long celebration filled with food, games and live entertainment. View the San Francisco fireworks from the ship’s flight deck. The Fog City Band will perform the Best of Motown beginning at 3 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., the Celtic rock band, Tempest, takes the stage. The night ends with performances by The Stacy Adams Band and MoonAlice. 11 a.m. USS Hornet Museum, West Hornet Avenue, Alameda. $30 general, $10 for youth ages 5-17. (510) 521-8448, ext. 282.

Suisun’s Celebration Free live music, craft vendors, family entertainment and fireworks display over the Waterfront.

(707) 11 a.m. Suisun City Harbor Plaza, Main and Solano streets, Suisun City. Free. (707) 4217309.

Napa County Fair & Fireworks The All American Fourth of July kicks off with a parade (11 a.m.-noon, downtown Calistoga).

Head over to the Napa County Fairgrounds for rides, contests, a wine pavilion, olive oil tastings, art exhibits and free Kids Kountry. At dusk, enjoy live music and the Fireworks Spectacular (9:30 p.m. at the Grandstand). Napa County Fairgrounds, 1435 N. Oak St., Calistoga. $10. (707) 942-5111.

Glorious Fourth of July Highlights include a parade (noon), races, bucket brigade, greased pole climbing, watermelon eating contests, barbecue at 2 p.m. 10:30 a.m. Columbia State Historic Park, Main Street, Columbia. (209) 536-1672.

MULTIPLE DAYS Fireworks in Old Sacramento Pick out the perfect spot along Old Sacramento’s Front Street to view Thursday’s Sacramento River Cats post-game fireworks show. Or look to the skies from Raley Field Friday for a flagwaving patriotic fireworks show during the second annual Fourth on the Field event, 6-10 p.m.

Festivities include interactive games on the field, food trucks, games and inflatables, and live music with Nunchuck Taylor. It commences with a fireworks display simulcast to patriotic music (also visible from Old Sacramento). $5-$15. Raley Field: (916) 371-4487; Old Sacramento: (916) 442-8575.

Folsom Pro Rodeo The Folsom Pro Rodeo arrived Wednesday with a cattle drive down Folsom’s Sutter Street.

Rodeo action features nightly fireworks, motocross performance, a tribute to the military, an American flag arriving by parachute, silver dollar dig, clown acts, food and live entertainment in Mike’s Gold Spike Saloon. 7 p.m. Thursday-July 5. Folsom City Lions Park, 403 Stafford St., Folsom. $15-$39. (916) 985-2698.

Red, White and Tahoe Blue Claim your spot early along Tahoe’s north shores for the best view of the annual Fourth of July fireworks show Friday. The party gets started early at Incline Village with activities on Thursday. North Shore serves up a full weekend of music and revelry, including a Billy Ray Cyrus concert, 7-9 p.m. July 5 on the Village Green (tickets start at $40). For a schedule, visit www.redwhitetahoeblue.org. 775-298-1010.

Fourth of July Fun Kids craft a star-spangled waver. Planetarium shows are at 1 and 3 p.m. (ages 4 and older).

Creature Features at noon and 2 p.m. are for all ages. 10 a.m. Monday-Thursday. Discovery Museum Science & Space Center, 3615 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento. $6-$8. (916) 808-3942.

July 4th Fest Park guests are treated to a nightly fireworks display. All weekend, active military members, veterans and their families receive discounted admission to the park. At 10:15 a.m. Thursday , Hearts of Valor families will be honored with a special ceremony. 10:30 a.m. Thursday-July 6.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo. $42.99-$64.99 at the gate.

(707) 643-6722.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2014/07/03/6513029/flags-fireworks-fun-willlight.html#storylink=cpy

Ski resorts gear up for summer activities 7/3/2014 By BRIAN E. CLARK

Once the pesky snow is gone, ski resorts get moving on summer activities for nearly every inclination From California to Canada, major ski resorts have big summer plans for warm-weather visitors Hiking, biking, eating and music are just some of the activities that major ski resorts offer in warm months

Summer can be a great time to visit ski resorts. The weather is usually glorious, and there are numerous outdoor activities, festivals and cultural offerings aimed at attracting visitors and entertaining locals. In this generally slower time of year, hotels offer discounts — even free nights midweek with multi-day stays — until the snow returns. Some ski resorts also run sports camps and meetings for groups and companies. Here's a rundown on what some areas across the West offer during the warm months: Lake Tahoe At Northstar, the mid-mountain Ritz-Carlton Hotel (www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/LakeTahoe) offers a diverse range of activities from cooking classes to cookouts to star-gazing tours. Hiking trails and mountain biking are right out the hotel's backdoor. Just 15 minutes from the resort, daily kayak and stand-up paddle boarding excursions on Lake Tahoe are offered by guides at Tahoe Adventure Co. (www.tahoeadventurecompany.com). For golfers, preferred access and tee times are offered on two championship golf courses, Old Greenwood and Gray's Crossing, both 15 minutes away.

If you're headed to Squaw Valley (www.bit.ly/Ucf2E8), be sure to take a ride on the resort's scenic aerial tram, which rises 2,000 vertical feet to High Camp, at an elevation of 8,200 feet. Once on top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Tahoe as well as access to a variety of activities, including swimming in a mountaintop pool, roller skating, geo-caching, tennis, hiking, disc golf and a ropes course. And every Tuesday, there are free blues concerts.

Sugar Bowl Resort (www.sugarbowl.com) runs a variety of kids' camps, where youngsters can participate in rock climbing, swimming and painting. For adults, there's wellness yoga and wine tasting. At Homewood (www.skihomewood.com), on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, you'll find bikes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for rent.

Homewood also has the Farm to Peak Dinner Series (July 5, Aug. 9 and Aug. 30) featuring mountaintop outdoor dining with a five-course meal with seasonal cuisine and great views of Lake Tahoe.

4th of July celebrations 7/03/2012

STAR-SPANGLED SPARKS: Starting at 6:00 Wednesday morning, the Sparks Marina will be packed with activities for the entire family, including hot air balloon rides and live music.

The fun moves to Victorian Square for the annual Star-Spangled Sparks Fireworks display off John Ascuaga's Nugget.

VIRGINIA CITY: Virginia City is boasting a "hometown celebration" this Independence Day with a parade, wine walk, free concert and fireworks.

The day will be filled with lots of family-friendly activities including; •The 4th of July parade down C Street at high noon.

•Live music on the boardwalk by "Uncle Sam," (portrayed by the Banjo Guy, Larry Elliott) •Stagecoach Rides on the TNT Stagelines •Train Rides to Gold Hill on the V&T Railroad

•“Red, White & You” Wine Walk (1PM to 7PM) with dozens of C St. merchants •FREE Second Amendment Concert by the Comstock Cowboys in the Delta Saloon Parking lot (6PM) •FREE fireworks show at dusk by Lantis Fireworks Company of Utah The “Red, White & You” Wine Walk will feature dozens of local merchants who will be serving up a variety of wines, snacks, discounts, etc. Collectible “Virginia City” wine glasses will be sold for $15 each with all proceeds to benefit the Virginia City 4th of July Fireworks Fund. Wine walkers take their glasses throughout town to the participating wine stops for free wine tasting and they get to keep the glass!

There’ll also be a limited amount of special label Virginia City red and white wines available for purchase.

Wine walk glasses may be purchased at the Mustang Ranch info booth on C St., right in front of the monument in the center of town. All events are free to the public, except the wine walk ($15 per glass), train rides, museums, and stagecoach rides.

LAKE TAHOE: July 3 Fireworks: Kings Beach July 4 Fireworks: Tahoe City Incline Village Truckee, California

2014 Lake Tahoe Fireworks Roundup Lake Tahoe is famous for its multiple spectacular Fourth of July fireworks displays. All over the area, the sky explodes with rainbows of light. And there’s plenty to celebrate on the ground as well. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the highlights and options for 2014...

First, a polite reminder and important request - PERSONAL FIREWORKS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN LAKE TAHOE! Fire danger is at an extreme high. Please heed this important rule and help keep Tahoe safe from devastating wildfires!

KINGS BEACH (NOTE: July 3): Fireworks and Beach Party - The festivities start a day early in Kings Beach. On Thursday July 3rd, from 4 pm on, you can head over to the North Tahoe Event Center for all sorts of games and activities, fun and fireworks at 9:30pm. Enjoy something to eat and drink out on the deck, then catch the the first fireworks of the week. Brought to you by the North Tahoe Business Association, More info can be found at: http://northtahoebusiness.org INCLINE VILLAGE (July 4): Red, White and Tahoe Blue is another awesome way to enjoy our country’s Independence at the Lake. Thanks to tremendous community support, there are numerous different events in Incline Village and Crystal Bay throughout the holiday week. The extravaganza of food, music, and entertainment come to a crescendo with arguably the best fireworks display in Lake Tahoe on July 4th at Incline Beach. Fireworks will start at approximately 9:30 pm. More details on all the events can be seen at:http://www.redwhitetahoeblue.org/ TAHOE CITY 4th OF JULY CELEBRATION (July 4) - COMMONS BEACH: Tahoe City’s annual Independence Day Celebration will take place in downtown Tahoe City and at Commons Beach. New this year is a Street Fair, taking place throughout the afternoon. The fireworks will be over Lake Tahoe so you can watch from the beach, or bring your boat and watch the show from the Lake. Fireworks will go from approximately 9:15 - 10 pm. For more details, go to www.visittahoecity.org TRUCKEE (July 4) - DONNER LAKE: Donner Lake has it’s own fantastic fireworks show on Wednesday evening at West End Beach. Following a day of festivities in Historic Downtown Truckee, including one of the best small town parades around, head to Donner Lake for the evening. Truckee Donner Parks & Rec, who put on the event, describe it as an old fashioned 4th of July celebration with games, live music, affordable food, and a spectacular fireworks display. Tickets for residents and homeowners are $6 each (proof of residency required, see link below). If you aren’t a resident, you can still enjoy a fun day at Donner Lake on the docks, swimming, boating, fishing, and fireworks can be seen from almost any location on or around the lake. Fireworks will start at about 9:30 pm. More info on the event can be found at: http://www.tdrpd.com/ LIGHTS ON THE LAKE - SOUTH LAKE TAHOE (July 4th): The American Pyrotechnics Association has rated South Shore’s Lights on the Lake celebration one of the top five displays in the nation This year's "Lights On Tahoe South" show is scheduled to begin at 9:45 PM. The fireworks are visible from all over town, and even across the lake.

Check out some of the sweet spots to get a front row seat here:http://tahoesouth.com/events/details/2255/lights_on_the_lake_fireworks_2013 No matter where you decide to go, don’t forget to bring warm clothes, allow extra travel time, and HAVE FUN!!

Around Reno/Tahoe July 2 - 8 Celebrate America's Birthday in style this year. Click here to see what's going on. Tahoe Celebrity Golf is right around the corner, read about the highlights in this week's blog, "Celebrities Tee Off!" Celebrate our history this 4th of July and take a trip to Genoa to visit Nevada's Oldest Saloon,The Genoa Bar. Watch this week's featured video to see what it's like. Looking for a special experience this 4th of July? Watch the Fireworks from the M.S. Dixie II or Tahoe Queen. Visit our events calendar to see what else is going on!

Featured BLOG Post >> Celebrities Tee Off For one week each summer, the gorgeous lakeside championship golf course of Edgewood Tahoe transforms into the host of one of the biggest celebrity sporting events of the year. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the American Century Championship, better known as Tahoe Celebrity Golf, will once again be in full swing July 15 -20. ...Âť

Artown in Reno If you're looking for art, culture, theater, music and much more, then visit Reno during the month of July for Artown. Reno businesses come together to celebrate the arts with over 500 events showcasing different entertainment and about 60% of the events are free to attend!

Getaway Event Picks >>

July 3rd Fireworks & Beach Party Kings Beach July 3 4:00pm

Red, White, and Tahoe Blue Incline Village July 3 - 5 daily events

Lights On The Lake Tahoe South July 4 Fireworks at dusk

Fourth of July Fireworks Independence Day celebrations set to take place across the Silver State.

By Jeri Chadwell The first Independence Day fireworks were lit off on July 4, 1777—one year after the United States declared its independence from Great Britain, and even as the Revolutionary War raged on. And 237 years later, fireworks are still the centerpiece of our Independence Day celebrations.

As Nevada continues its sesquicentennial celebration, fireworks displays around the state take on even greater significance. Here are just a few to consider attending: Lake Tahoe The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra and tenor Albert Lee are featured at Tahoe’s Fourth of July fireworks display, part of the annual Red, White and Tahoe Blue celebration. The orchestra has prepared a salute to the 200th anniversary of the Star-Spangled Banner. The event takes place at the Village Green in Incline Village.Tickets are $44 for adults and $11 for children.

Reno-Sparks John Ascuaga’s Nugget is celebrating its 15th annual Star Spangled Sparks fireworks show.

The show, which is set off from the roof of the Nugget, is the region’s longest fireworks display. Live music is scheduled from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The casino is offering free mechanical bull rides at their newly-opened Gilley’s Saloon for anyone with a valid Military ID. For more information about Fourth of July celebrations around the state, visit theNevada 150 website!

10 Things to Do in July in Lake Tahoe 2014: 4th of July, Summertime Activities, and July Events Listed by TahoesBest.com Lake Tahoe Offers a Mixture of the Great Outdoors With Premier Dining Experiences and Musical Attractions, and July 2014 Is No Exception LAKE TAHOE, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 07/01/14 -- Lake Tahoe offers a number of attractions, so find the top attractions to enjoy while on vacation this summer. Today TahoesBest.com, a top travel and tourism site serving Lake Tahoe, announced a list of top things to do this July 2014 in Lake Tahoe. The list includes general summertime activities, 4th of July in Lake Tahoe, and fun events to enjoy in the area.

1. 4th of July in Lake Tahoe Red, White, and Tahoe Blue celebrates the country's independence while encouraging support of local businesses, community spirit, and charitable donations. Red, White, and Tahoe Blue Fireworks display was ranked by several sources as one of the best in the country. The incredible support of the community allows Red, White, and Tahoe Blue to produce 28 special events in Incline Village and Crystal Bay. These events include Beer & Brats, the Parade, Ice Cream Social, Concerts, Rubber Duck Races, Veterans Tribute, Community Fair, and much more.

There are four days of events filled with music, fun, entertainment, and food. Then on July 4th there is one of the best fireworks displays at Incline Beach.

The 200th Anniversary of The Star-Spangled Banner occurs from 8pm to 10pm located in the Village Green outdoor venue. The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra presents an impressive salute to The StarSpangled Banner and finishes with an eye-catching, synchronized fireworks display. General admission for adults is $40 plus a $4 processing fee. On the day of the event, the price increases to $55 at the gate.

General admission for children is $10 plus a $1 processing fee. On the day of the event, the price increases to $16.50 at the gate. Chairs and blankets are suggested.

Celebrating 4th of July in South Lake Tahoe this year? Enjoy the best places to watch fireworks in South Lake Tahoe here:http://www.tahoesbest.com/explode-4th-july-lake-tahoe-fireworks-south-laketahoe The absolute best place to watch the fireworks is from a privately chartered, captained boat. Bring beer, food, and blankets and relax as a captain guides you to the best place to watch the fireworks this year.

Tahoe Jet Boats offers exactly this. For $1,600 Tahoe Jet Boats will pick you up from wherever you would like, and take you from 7-11 pm to watch the best fireworks in the country. Up to 6 guests, gas, captain and coolers included. Find out more about Tahoe Jet Boats.

2. Tahoe Trout Farm

The Tahoe Trout Farm has been in business for 65 years. This is a family owned business that has grown into a Tahoe tradition. The Trout Farm is perfect for catching a fish to grill this summer or watching children catch their first. Tahoe Trout Farm offers fishing fun for the entire family. The Farm maintains two well-circulated ponds that are filled with healthy rainbow trout. Bait and tackle are free and a fishing license is not required. Tahoe Trout Farm charges per fish. The cost depends on the overall length of the fish. Fish prices range from 10" for $5 to 18" for $17.

The Farm will clean any fish and put it on ice for visitors. There is also the option to donate any fish to charity. For those visitors that simply want to watch, there are benches surrounding all the ponds. Tahoe Trout Farm is located at 1023 Blue Lake Ave. So. Lake Tahoe, CA. The hours are 10am to 6pm during the summer.

3. Tahoe Maritime Museum This museum offers some great ideas for fun summer activities. The Tahoe Maritime Museum is located at 5205 West Lake Blvd. in Homewood, CA. There are currently several events to experience this summer.

The featured exhibit this summer is Ghost Ships, which focuses on boats that have met their doom in the deep waters of Lake Tahoe. The exhibit runs until April 19, and is great for kids. Ghost Ships covers everything from interesting to Lake Tahoe history, to public interaction with these underwater historic sites.

Beginning Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 9:30am, The Maritime Museum will offer youth paddle boarding instruction. The age range is 8 to 14 years old and the fees vary depending on the session. Participants will learn how to safely use stand up paddleboards. Each class starts at Commons Beach. Equipment provided includes life jackets, paddleboards, and paddles. Proper water attire is required for instruction. Classes run in sessions until Sept. 27th. More information here.

4. Concerts At Commons Beach Concerts at Commons Beach is located in downtown Tahoe City. Concerts include local, regional, and national performances that will entertain audiences every Sunday throughout the summer. This is a free 12-week event that starts June 22nd and ends September 7th. Musical performances start at 4pm and lasts until 7pm. In some cases there may be early starts at 3pm.

This is a great summer event that allows guests to enjoy good music and the lake with friends and family.

Picnics and beverages are welcomed. However, there are also local food and drink vendors available.

5. Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival The Shakespeare Festival is located at the Sand Harbor State Park. The festival includes a play entitled "As You Like It" which is referred to as Shakespeare's Enchanting Romantic Comedy. The romantic comedy runs from July 11th to August 24th at 7:30pm. This is an amazing production that features beautiful costumes, stunning sets, and talented acting.

6. Squaw Valley Art, Wine, and Music Festival The Squaw Valley Art, Wine and Music Festival starts on Saturday, July 12, 2014 at 11:00am. The festival concludes on Sunday, July 13, 2014 at 5pm. The village of Squaw Valley will experience music, color, and taste during this two-day event. Artists, musicians, craft makers, and performers come together to participate in this entertaining festival. The Art, Wine & Music Festival includes shops, art booths, wine tasting, art exhibits, two performance stages, and restaurants. There is no outside alcohol permitted; however, wine and beer available during the festival for purchase.

7. Concerts In July Kenny Loggins and Blue Sky Riders perform on July 18th at the Grand Sierra Resort. The show starts at 9pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $25 to $65. Kenny Loggins has had a remarkable four-decade career and has provided many top of the charts hits.

Carrie Underwood performs on July 18th at the Harvey's Outdoor Arena. The show starts at 8pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $89.50 to $175.50. Carrie Underwood has sold more than 15 million albums worldwide. She has also earned more than 18 #1 singles.

Demi Lovato performs on July 19th at the Reno Events Center. The show starts at 7pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $65 to $552. Demi Lovato is an American actress and singer who debuted in September 2008. She sold more than 89,000 copies in her first week. Tickets here.

Journey & Steve Miller Band performs on July 30th at the Harvey's Outdoor Arena. The show starts at 6:30pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $59.50 to $199.50. Journey is currently one of the most famous American rock bands.

8. River Rafting River rafting is easy and fun at Truckee River Raft Co. The company is located on 185 River Road in Tahoe City, Ca. This is a perfect summer experience for visitors of all ages. The raft travels through serene areas with scenic mountain views. The raft also travels through dynamic rapids that offer an exciting ride.

There are picnic areas and swimming holes available throughout. The company is animal friendly and encourages visitors to bring lunch. The trip typically takes 3 hours and exits on the River Ranch Patio.

Admission is $30 for children 6 to 12, $35 for adults 13 and older, $5 for children 5 and younger.

However, discounted rates may apply for large groups of 15+, online/phone reservations, and early bird walk-ups from 8:30am to 10:00am.

9. Try Hang Gliding Experience hang gliding at Carson City Airport. Flight instructors are located in the "Sterling Air" building. Instruction includes an interactive flight lesson. The instruction uses a powered hang glider known as a Trike. This hang glider is a FAA approved aircraft that incorporates a modern hang gliding wing. For the most part, this glider is similar to many traditional hang gliders, except it is powered by a durable Rotax engine. This is a great summer activity that is safe yet exhilarating. This activity is great for family, couples, and friends. The gliders allow two people to go up simultaneously in separate aircrafts. It is important to book reservations as far in advance as possible to lock-in the top spots. Hang Gliding Tahoe offers early bird specials all summer long.

10. Go Biking Anderson's Bike Rental has some of the best bikes in Tahoe. Rent a bike this summer to enjoy some of the most incredible bike paths in Tahoe. There are trails through the national forest and along the lake. Factory Bike in Squaw Valley also offers bike rentals for the entire family. Bike rentals include 6 speed cruiser bikes for children, 7 speed townie bikes, and 21 speed mountain bikes.

Summers at Lake Tahoe are perfect for enjoying nature and experiencing the beautiful mountain environment. Lake Tahoe has a unique culture, a natural feel, and beautiful scenery. TahoesBest.com can help guide visitors toward the top 10 things to do in July at Lake Tahoe this summer.

About TahoesBest.com:

Lake Tahoe is known for outdoor activities, pristine waters and one of the best wedding destinations in the country. TahoesBest.com is the authority on what to do, where to stay, weather updates and all the best upcoming events for any visitor. Use TahoesBest.com to find information, reviews and deals on all things Lake Tahoe from concerts to vacation rentals.

10 Things to Do in July in Lake Tahoe 2014: 4th of July, Summertime Activities, and July Events Listed by TahoesBest.com Lake Tahoe Offers a Mixture of the Great Outdoors With Premier Dining Experiences and Musical Attractions, and July 2014 Is No Exception LAKE TAHOE, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 07/01/14 -- Lake Tahoe offers a number of attractions, so find the top attractions to enjoy while on vacation this summer. Today TahoesBest.com, a top travel and tourism site serving Lake Tahoe, announced a list of top things to do this July 2014 in Lake Tahoe. The list includes general summertime activities, 4th of July in Lake Tahoe, and fun events to enjoy in the area.

1. 4th of July in Lake Tahoe Red, White, and Tahoe Blue celebrates the country's independence while encouraging support of local businesses, community spirit, and charitable donations. Red, White, and Tahoe Blue Fireworks display was ranked by several sources as one of the best in the country. The incredible support of the community allows Red, White, and Tahoe Blue to produce 28 special events in Incline Village and Crystal Bay. These events include Beer & Brats, the Parade, Ice Cream Social, Concerts, Rubber Duck Races, Veterans Tribute, Community Fair, and much more.

There are four days of events filled with music, fun, entertainment, and food. Then on July 4th there is one of the best fireworks displays at Incline Beach.

The 200th Anniversary of The Star-Spangled Banner occurs from 8pm to 10pm located in the Village Green outdoor venue. The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra presents an impressive salute to The StarSpangled Banner and finishes with an eye-catching, synchronized fireworks display. General admission for adults is $40 plus a $4 processing fee. On the day of the event, the price increases to $55 at the gate.

General admission for children is $10 plus a $1 processing fee. On the day of the event, the price increases to $16.50 at the gate. Chairs and blankets are suggested.

Celebrating 4th of July in South Lake Tahoe this year? Enjoy the best places to watch fireworks in South Lake Tahoe here:http://www.tahoesbest.com/explode-4th-july-lake-tahoe-fireworks-south-laketahoe The absolute best place to watch the fireworks is from a privately chartered, captained boat. Bring beer, food, and blankets and relax as a captain guides you to the best place to watch the fireworks this year.

Tahoe Jet Boats offers exactly this. For $1,600 Tahoe Jet Boats will pick you up from wherever you would like, and take you from 7-11 pm to watch the best fireworks in the country. Up to 6 guests, gas, captain and coolers included. Find out more about Tahoe Jet Boats.

2. Tahoe Trout Farm

The Tahoe Trout Farm has been in business for 65 years. This is a family owned business that has grown into a Tahoe tradition. The Trout Farm is perfect for catching a fish to grill this summer or watching children catch their first. Tahoe Trout Farm offers fishing fun for the entire family. The Farm maintains two well-circulated ponds that are filled with healthy rainbow trout. Bait and tackle are free and a fishing license is not required. Tahoe Trout Farm charges per fish. The cost depends on the overall length of the fish. Fish prices range from 10" for $5 to 18" for $17.

The Farm will clean any fish and put it on ice for visitors. There is also the option to donate any fish to charity. For those visitors that simply want to watch, there are benches surrounding all the ponds. Tahoe Trout Farm is located at 1023 Blue Lake Ave. So. Lake Tahoe, CA. The hours are 10am to 6pm during the summer.

3. Tahoe Maritime Museum This museum offers some great ideas for fun summer activities. The Tahoe Maritime Museum is located at 5205 West Lake Blvd. in Homewood, CA. There are currently several events to experience this summer.

The featured exhibit this summer is Ghost Ships, which focuses on boats that have met their doom in the deep waters of Lake Tahoe. The exhibit runs until April 19, and is great for kids. Ghost Ships covers everything from interesting to Lake Tahoe history, to public interaction with these underwater historic sites.

Beginning Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 9:30am, The Maritime Museum will offer youth paddle boarding instruction. The age range is 8 to 14 years old and the fees vary depending on the session. Participants will learn how to safely use stand up paddleboards. Each class starts at Commons Beach. Equipment provided includes life jackets, paddleboards, and paddles. Proper water attire is required for instruction. Classes run in sessions until Sept. 27th. More information here.

4. Concerts At Commons Beach Concerts at Commons Beach is located in downtown Tahoe City. Concerts include local, regional, and national performances that will entertain audiences every Sunday throughout the summer. This is a free 12-week event that starts June 22nd and ends September 7th. Musical performances start at 4pm and lasts until 7pm. In some cases there may be early starts at 3pm.

This is a great summer event that allows guests to enjoy good music and the lake with friends and family.

Picnics and beverages are welcomed. However, there are also local food and drink vendors available.

5. Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival The Shakespeare Festival is located at the Sand Harbor State Park. The festival includes a play entitled "As You Like It" which is referred to as Shakespeare's Enchanting Romantic Comedy. The romantic comedy runs from July 11th to August 24th at 7:30pm. This is an amazing production that features beautiful costumes, stunning sets, and talented acting.

6. Squaw Valley Art, Wine, and Music Festival The Squaw Valley Art, Wine and Music Festival starts on Saturday, July 12, 2014 at 11:00am. The festival concludes on Sunday, July 13, 2014 at 5pm. The village of Squaw Valley will experience music, color, and taste during this two-day event. Artists, musicians, craft makers, and performers come together to participate in this entertaining festival. The Art, Wine & Music Festival includes shops, art booths, wine tasting, art exhibits, two performance stages, and restaurants. There is no outside alcohol permitted; however, wine and beer available during the festival for purchase.

7. Concerts In July Kenny Loggins and Blue Sky Riders perform on July 18th at the Grand Sierra Resort. The show starts at 9pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $25 to $65. Kenny Loggins has had a remarkable four-decade career and has provided many top of the charts hits.

Carrie Underwood performs on July 18th at the Harvey's Outdoor Arena. The show starts at 8pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $89.50 to $175.50. Carrie Underwood has sold more than 15 million albums worldwide. She has also earned more than 18 #1 singles.

Demi Lovato performs on July 19th at the Reno Events Center. The show starts at 7pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $65 to $552. Demi Lovato is an American actress and singer who debuted in September 2008. She sold more than 89,000 copies in her first week. Tickets here.

Journey & Steve Miller Band performs on July 30th at the Harvey's Outdoor Arena. The show starts at 6:30pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $59.50 to $199.50. Journey is currently one of the most famous American rock bands.

8. River Rafting River rafting is easy and fun at Truckee River Raft Co. The company is located on 185 River Road in Tahoe City, Ca. This is a perfect summer experience for visitors of all ages. The raft travels through serene areas with scenic mountain views. The raft also travels through dynamic rapids that offer an exciting ride.

There are picnic areas and swimming holes available throughout. The company is animal friendly and encourages visitors to bring lunch. The trip typically takes 3 hours and exits on the River Ranch Patio.

Admission is $30 for children 6 to 12, $35 for adults 13 and older, $5 for children 5 and younger.

However, discounted rates may apply for large groups of 15+, online/phone reservations, and early bird walk-ups from 8:30am to 10:00am.

9. Try Hang Gliding Experience hang gliding at Carson City Airport. Flight instructors are located in the "Sterling Air" building. Instruction includes an interactive flight lesson. The instruction uses a powered hang glider known as a Trike. This hang glider is a FAA approved aircraft that incorporates a modern hang gliding wing. For the most part, this glider is similar to many traditional hang gliders, except it is powered by a durable Rotax engine. This is a great summer activity that is safe yet exhilarating. This activity is great for family, couples, and friends. The gliders allow two people to go up simultaneously in separate aircrafts. It is important to book reservations as far in advance as possible to lock-in the top spots. Hang Gliding Tahoe offers early bird specials all summer long.

10. Go Biking Anderson's Bike Rental has some of the best bikes in Tahoe. Rent a bike this summer to enjoy some of the most incredible bike paths in Tahoe. There are trails through the national forest and along the lake. Factory Bike in Squaw Valley also offers bike rentals for the entire family. Bike rentals include 6 speed cruiser bikes for children, 7 speed townie bikes, and 21 speed mountain bikes.

Summers at Lake Tahoe are perfect for enjoying nature and experiencing the beautiful mountain environment. Lake Tahoe has a unique culture, a natural feel, and beautiful scenery. TahoesBest.com can help guide visitors toward the top 10 things to do in July at Lake Tahoe this summer.

About TahoesBest.com:

Lake Tahoe is known for outdoor activities, pristine waters and one of the best wedding destinations in the country. TahoesBest.com is the authority on what to do, where to stay, weather updates and all the best upcoming events for any visitor. Use TahoesBest.com to find information, reviews and deals on all things Lake Tahoe from concerts to vacation rentals.

July 01, 2014 08:07 ET

10 Things to Do in July in Lake Tahoe 2014: 4th of July, Summertime Activities, and July Events Listed by TahoesBest.com Lake Tahoe Offers a Mixture of the Great Outdoors With Premier Dining Experiences and Musical Attractions, and July 2014 Is No Exception

LAKE TAHOE, CA--(Marketwired - Jul 1, 2014) - Lake Tahoe offers a number of attractions, so find the top attractions to enjoy while on vacation this summer. Today TahoesBest.com, a top travel and tourism site serving Lake Tahoe, announced a list of top things to do this July 2014 in Lake Tahoe. The list includes general summertime activities, 4th of July in Lake Tahoe, and fun events to enjoy in the area.

1. 4th of July in Lake Tahoe

Red, White, and Tahoe Blue celebrates the country's independence while encouraging support of local businesses, community spirit, and charitable donations. Red, White, and Tahoe Blue Fireworks display was ranked by several sources as one of the best in the country. The incredible support of the community allows Red, White, and Tahoe Blue to produce 28 special events in Incline Village and Crystal Bay. These events include Beer & Brats, the Parade, Ice Cream Social, Concerts, Rubber Duck Races, Veterans Tribute, Community Fair, and much more.

There are four days of events filled with music, fun, entertainment, and food. Then on July 4th there is one of the best fireworks displays at Incline Beach.

The 200th Anniversary of The Star-Spangled Banner occurs from 8pm to 10pm located in the Village Green outdoor venue. The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra presents an impressive salute to The Star-Spangled Banner and finishes with an eye-catching, synchronized fireworks display.

General admission for adults is $40 plus a $4 processing fee. On the day of the event, the price increases to $55 at the gate. General admission for children is $10 plus a $1 processing fee. On the day of the event, the price increases to $16.50 at the gate. Chairs and blankets are suggested.

Celebrating 4th of July in South Lake Tahoe this year? Enjoy the best places to watch fireworks in South Lake Tahoe here: http://www.tahoesbest.com/explode-4th-july-lake-tahoe-fireworks-south-laketahoe

The absolute best place to watch the fireworks is from a privately chartered, captained boat.

Bring beer, food, and blankets and relax as a captain guides you to the best place to watch the fireworks this year. Tahoe Jet Boats offers exactly this. For $1,600 Tahoe Jet Boats will pick you up from wherever you would like, and take you from 7-11 pm to watch the best fireworks in the country. Up to 6 guests, gas, captain and coolers included. Find out more about Tahoe Jet Boats.

2. Tahoe Trout Farm

The Tahoe Trout Farm has been in business for 65 years. This is a family owned business that has grown into a Tahoe tradition. The Trout Farm is perfect for catching a fish to grill this summer or watching children catch their first. Tahoe Trout Farm offers fishing fun for the entire family. The Farm maintains two well-circulated ponds that are filled with healthy rainbow trout. Bait and tackle are free and a fishing license is not required. Tahoe Trout Farm charges per fish. The cost depends on the overall length of the fish. Fish prices range from 10" for $5 to 18" for $17.

The Farm will clean any fish and put it on ice for visitors. There is also the option to donate any fish to charity. For those visitors that simply want to watch, there are benches surrounding all the ponds. Tahoe Trout Farm is located at 1023 Blue Lake Ave. So. Lake Tahoe, CA. The hours are 10am to 6pm during the summer.

3. Tahoe Maritime Museum

This museum offers some great ideas for fun summer activities. The Tahoe Maritime Museumis located at 5205 West Lake Blvd. in Homewood, CA. There are currently several events to experience this summer.

The featured exhibit this summer is Ghost Ships, which focuses on boats that have met their doom in the deep waters of Lake Tahoe. The exhibit runs until April 19, and is great for kids.Ghost Ships covers everything from interesting to Lake Tahoe history, to public interaction with these underwater historic sites.

Beginning Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 9:30am, The Maritime Museum will offer youth paddle boarding instruction. The age range is 8 to 14 years old and the fees vary depending on the session. Participants will learn how to safely use stand up paddleboards. Each class starts at Commons Beach. Equipment provided includes life jackets, paddleboards, and paddles. Proper water attire is required for instruction. Classes run in sessions until Sept. 27th. More information here.

4. Concerts At Commons Beach Concerts at Commons Beach is located in downtown Tahoe City. Concerts include local, regional,

and national performances that will entertain audiences every Sunday throughout the summer.

This is a free 12-week event that starts June 22nd and ends September 7th. Musical performances start at 4pm and lasts until 7pm. In some cases there may be early starts at 3pm.

This is a great summer event that allows guests to enjoy good music and the lake with friends and family. Picnics and beverages are welcomed. However, there are also local food and drink vendors available.

5. Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival The Shakespeare Festival is located at the Sand Harbor State Park. The festival includes a play

entitled "As You Like It" which is referred to as Shakespeare's Enchanting Romantic Comedy.

The romantic comedy runs from July 11th to August 24th at 7:30pm. This is an amazing production that features beautiful costumes, stunning sets, and talented acting.

6. Squaw Valley Art, Wine, and Music Festival

The Squaw Valley Art, Wine and Music Festival starts on Saturday, July 12, 2014 at 11:00am.

The festival concludes on Sunday, July 13, 2014 at 5pm. The village of Squaw Valley will experience music, color, and taste during this two-day event. Artists, musicians, craft makers, and performers come together to participate in this entertaining festival. The Art, Wine & Music Festival includes shops, art booths, wine tasting, art exhibits, two performance stages, and restaurants. There is no outside alcohol permitted; however, wine and beer available during the festival for purchase.

7. Concerts In July

Kenny Loggins and Blue Sky Riders perform on July 18th at the Grand Sierra Resort. The show starts at 9pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $25 to $65. Kenny Loggins has had a remarkable four-decade career and has provided many top of the charts hits.

Carrie Underwood performs on July 18th at the Harvey's Outdoor Arena. The show starts at 8pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $89.50 to $175.50. Carrie Underwood has sold more than 15 million albums worldwide. She has also earned more than 18 #1 singles.

Demi Lovato performs on July 19th at the Reno Events Center. The show starts at 7pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $65 to $552. Demi Lovato is an American actress and singer who debuted in September 2008. She sold more than 89,000 copies in her first week. Tickets here.

Journey & Steve Miller Band performs on July 30th at the Harvey's Outdoor Arena. The show starts at 6:30pm and is suitable for all ages. The price ranges from $59.50 to $199.50. Journey is currently one of the most famous American rock bands.

8. River Rafting

River rafting is easy and fun at Truckee River Raft Co. The company is located on 185 River Road in Tahoe City, Ca. This is a perfect summer experience for visitors of all ages. The raft travels through serene areas with scenic mountain views. The raft also travels through dynamic rapids that offer an exciting ride. There are picnic areas and swimming holes available throughout. The company is animal friendly and encourages visitors to bring lunch. The trip typically takes 3 hours and exits on the River Ranch Patio. Admission is $30 for children 6 to 12, $35 for adults 13 and older, $5 for children 5 and younger. However, discounted rates may apply for large groups of 15+, online/phone reservations, and early bird walk-ups from 8:30am to 10:00am.

9. Try Hang Gliding

Experience hang gliding at Carson City Airport. Flight instructors are located in the "Sterling Air" building. Instruction includes an interactive flight lesson. The instruction uses a powered hang glider known as a Trike. This hang glider is a FAA approved aircraft that incorporates a modern hang gliding wing. For the most part, this glider is similar to many traditional hang gliders, except it is powered by a durable Rotax engine. This is a great summer activity that is safe yet exhilarating. This activity is great for family, couples, and friends. The gliders allow two people to go up simultaneously in separate aircrafts. It is important to book reservations as far in advance as possible to lock-in the top spots. Hang Gliding Tahoe offers early bird specials all summer long.

10. Go Biking Anderson's Bike Rental has some of the best bikes in Tahoe. Rent a bike this summer to enjoy some

of the most incredible bike paths in Tahoe. There are trails through the national forest and along the lake. Factory Bike in Squaw Valley also offers bike rentals for the entire family. Bike rentals include 6 speed cruiser bikes for children, 7 speed townie bikes, and 21 speed mountain bikes.

Summers at Lake Tahoe are perfect for enjoying nature and experiencing the beautiful mountain environment. Lake Tahoe has a unique culture, a natural feel, and beautiful scenery.

TahoesBest.com can help guide visitors toward the top 10 things to do in July at Lake Tahoe this summer.

About TahoesBest.com:

Lake Tahoe is known for outdoor activities, pristine waters and one of the best wedding destinations in the country. TahoesBest.com is the authority on what to do, where to stay, weather updates and all the best upcoming events for any visitor. Use TahoesBest.com to find information, reviews and deals on all things Lake Tahoe from concerts to vacation rentals.

The Ultimate Fourth of July in Reno Tahoe 6/30/2014

Sport your Red, White and Tahoe Blue as sparks fly on the Fourth of July in Reno Tahoe USA! Reno, Sparks and North Lake Tahoe will light up the night with the largest firework shows in the region, good eats and treats for the kids.

Lake Tahoe

Go to North Lake for sun, sand and the largest fireworks display in Lake Tahoe for the 4th!

The sixth annual celebration offers good old-fashioned fun for all ages, with a parade and festival, aerial and land military demonstrations, beer and wine tastings, and carnival. Voted by MSN.Travel.com and AOL.com as one of the “Top Ten 4th of July Festivals in America.”

Sparks

The region’s longest, most spectacular fireworks display is set off from the roof of JA Nugget while thousands of revelers celebrate July 4th on Victorian Square below. Live entertainment for the whole family, a kid’s area and an array of food choices complete the evening.

Reno

Celebrate the Fourth with America’s pastime. Grab a hot dog, watch the Reno Aces baseball team take on Sacramento, sip on a cold local brew, and sit back for a major pyrotechnic presentation after the game at Aces Stadium! It doesn’t get much more American than that.

Downtown Reno will spice up the All-American weekend with the 13th annual Wing Fest!

Sample sauces, get wigged out on wings and jam to (free!) live entertainment!

4th of July in Lake Tahoe 6/30/2014 Why Lake Tahoe this 4th of July?

Why do so many people flock to Lake Tahoe on the 4th of July? Could it be the sandy beaches, food and drink specials, community events and fireworks shows? We think so. What sounds better than spending the 4th of July with friends on a nice sandy beach, mingling with the crowds till the sun recedes and the fireworks shows begin?

Plan an affordable trip

Are you coming up with a family or group of friends for this 4th of July? Tahoe has a great selection of cabins and vacation rentals.

Reserve a hotel or cabin today See our Vacation Deals Bringing the pets?

Come for the action, stay for the fireworks!

The July 4th fireworks extravaganza is one of the most popular Independence Day celebrations in the West with 100,000 plus onlookers. The event has received national media exposure in USA Today, Travel & Leisure and ForbesTraveler.com as one of the nation’s top Fourth of July festivities. This annual family tradition is choreographed to music and broadcast on local radio stations KRLT-FM 93.9 and KOWL-AM 1490. The fireworks are launched from offshore barges and can be seen from all corners of town. South Shore offers convenient access to viewing areas via public transportation, paved bike trails, and nearby park and walk venues.

Fireworks shows by region – Study up on Lake Tahoe regions

Kings Beach Fireworks The Kings Beach fireworks and deck party is held at the North Tahoe Event Center. For information call 530-546-9000.

Incline Village Fireworks Viewing is easy from any of the beaches as the barge is usually off Incline Beach. Pick your

favorite spot and spend the day with family, friends or neighbors and then stay for the most spectacular fireworks sponsored by the Red, White and Tahoe Blue committee. It is one of the favorites on the lake. For more info, call (775) 298-1010.

Tahoe City Fireworks On Commons Beach in downtown Tahoe City. Arrive early to picnic, meet friends and neighbors and stay for the spectacular fireworks. Call 530-581-6900 for info.

Truckee 4th of July Fireworks Donner Lake, West End Beach. Dusk. Purchase tickets from Truckee Donner Recreation and Park District. www.tdrpd.com or 530-582-7720 South Lake Tahoe — Lights on the Lake The Lights on the Lake fireworks show is full of great vantage points. We have a few extra creative places to view this show: For the water bound: South Lake Tahoe’s Tahoe Queen and M.S. Dixie II, both offer dining/viewing packages.

For the landlocked: Nevada Beach State Park has a soft, sandy shoreline equipped with barbecues and picnic tables.

For the super-seat-savers: Regan and El Dorado Beaches offer front-row seating that fills up fast.

For families: Bijou Community Park is set back from the shoreline and boasts many amenities such as a skate park, disc golf course, dog park, golf course and playground.

For east bay viewers: The Tallac Historic Site, off Emerald Bay Road, has an east-view perspective with nearby Baldwin Beach and its picnic tables.

For the best view: For the more adventurous, hike to the top of Mount Tallac for a bird’s eye view of the fireworks extravaganza, but don’t forget your headlamp for the trek back down

North Lake Tahoe and Truckee set to celebrate Independence Day June 30, 2014

TAHOE/TRUCKEE, Calif. — North Lake Tahoe and Truckee will celebrate Independence Day, the federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, with parades, pancake breakfasts and a slew of fireworks displays.

BGCNLT PANCAKE BREAKFAST On Friday, July 4, the Boys and Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe will host a pancake breakfast “Cakes on the Lake” at the North Tahoe Event Center, 8318 North Lake Blvd. in Kings Beach. The children and staff will serve a full pancake breakfast with strawberries, whipped cream, sausage, juice, milk and plenty of coffee from 8-10:30 a.m.

Work on the Kings Beach Commercial Core Improvement Project will be suspended on July 1, leaving plenty of parking in and around the Event Center. The Boys and Girls Club will partner with the North Tahoe Public Utility District and Aim High. All proceeds will go to programs for youth programs.

Visit with friends and neighbors during this 30-year tradition.

MEEKS BAY FIRE PANCAKE BREAKFAST The Meeks Bay Volunteer Firefighters Association will hold its 47th Annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, July 5 and 6, 8 a.m.-noon, with proceeds to benefit the Meeks Bay Fire Protection District.

Breakfast includes pancakes, famous Meeks Bay Fire jumbo sausages, applesauce, milk, coffee, orange juice and plenty of butter and maple syrup.

The popular Meeks Bay Fire T-shirts, sweats, aprons, logo items and the Meeks Bay Fire Ladies Auxiliary Cook Book will be available for purchase. “Fire Chief” helmets will be available for the “little chiefs” visiting the station.

Breakfast is $9 adults (over 12 years); $6 children (6 –11 years); and free under age 5.

Meet the firefighters, get Defensible space and home safety information and see the fire

engines and apparatus. All will be on display for inspection by “children” of all ages, so bring the whole family to the popular West Shore family event.

Meeks Bay Fire Station #61 is located on Highway 89 in Meeks Bay. TRUCKEE FIRE PANCAKE BREAKFAST Truckee Fire Protection District will host the 16th annual Fourth of July pancake breakfast.

Breakfast will be held at Station 92 located at 11473 Donner Pass Road next to Wild Cherries coffee house. Truckee Fire will be serve 7-10 a.m. Adults are $7 and children $5.

This year credit and debit cards and cash will be accepted. New Truckee Fire apparel will also be for sale, with a bounce house for the kids and plenty of coffee for the adults.

DONNER SUMMIT GALA Celebrate July 4 with your neighbors on Donner Summit with the Donner Summit Area Association’s Fourth of July of Picnic, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Donner Summit Lodge back yard. Great food, Lagunitas beer, live music by Blues Monsters, and lots of great prizes.

Cost of for the picnic is adults $15 and children $5. The DSAA will raffle: a Kona “Fire” mountain bike, courtesy The Backcountry and DSAA; a framed original Michael Overhauser, courtesy of the artist; and $500 cash, courtesy of DSAA members. Raffle tickets cost $10.

Buy picnic and raffle tickets through at www.DonnerSummitAreaAssociation.org JULY 3 FIREWORKS AND BEACH PARTY Fourth of July revelers will have the opportunity to celebrate the holiday a day early in Kings Beach. The North Tahoe Business Association and North Tahoe Event Center host the July 3 Fireworks and Beach Party at Kings Beach State Recreation Area, 4-10 p.m. The event includes food vendors, free watermelon eating, sand castle building, games, patriotic costume contests, music and live entertainment, glow toys, souvenirs and more. A drink garden with beer, wine and mixed drinks is also available for those 21 and older.

The sky will light up at 9:30 p.m., with fireworks that can be seen from all parts of the beach.

All preferred seating, drink and souvenir proceeds support the Kings Beach July 3 Fireworks.

Please walk, bike or use public transportation to get to North Tahoe Event Center and Kings Beach State Recreation Area. For public transportation option visit www.laketahoetransit.com.

For more information, a schedule of events, or to volunteer visit www.NorthTahoeBusiness.org or call 530-546-9000.

Tahoe City Street Fair and Fireworks The Tahoe City Downtown Association announces a full afternoon of activities for friends and families leading up to a spectacular fireworks display off of Commons Beach on Friday, July 4. A July Fourth Fun Zone, located in Truckee-Tahoe Lumber Co.’s parking lot at 315 North Lake Blvd., will include a dunk tank, bean bag toss, putting green and more. Penney the Clown will also be on site with face painters and live music performed by Kip Yager from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information head to www.gotahoenorth.com.

Tahoe Maritime Museum’s boat parade Being on the lake for the Fourth of July is an iconic Lake Tahoe day. Spend it in an Independence Day parade full of beautiful boats, as the Tahoe Maritime Museum will once again host its annual Fourth of July boat parade along Tahoe’s west shore. Call 530-5259253, ext. 100 or email matt@tahoemaritime.org to have your boat recorded as part of the parade. Leaving a message is fine. Next step is to simply show up in your boat in front of Commons Beach in Tahoe City (don’t go in too close, it is shallow), just west of the Tahoe City Marina at 11:45 a.m. Look out for Stardust, the museum’s ride boat that will lead the parade. The parade will start at noon and end in front of Obexer’s Marina.

Truckee Americana Grab a spot along Donner Pass Road and soak up Americana at the annual Truckee Fourth of July Parade, featuring the Wells Fargo horse-drawn stagecoach, Truckee River Drill Team and Olympic athletes including Julia Mancuso, Tamara McKinney and Travis Ganong.

This year’s parade theme was inspired by the blend of traditional and contemporary spirit in #TruckeeMoments, a hashtag movement that has harnessed visitor and local energy into a vibrant experience. Attendees and participants are encouraged to share parade pictures to social media and tag with #TruckeeMoments.

If you’ve purchased a $6 ticket from Truckee Donner Recreation & Parks beforehand, make your way to Donner Lake Beach for the town barbecue and wait for dusk to roll in and fireworks start over Donner Lake.

Homewood Fine Arts and Crafts Festival

Homewood Mountain Resort celebrates Independence Day weekend with the Homewood Fine Arts and Crafts Festival July 4-6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. This free event brings more than 50 artists in a variety of media including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, photography and more.

Homewood Mountain Resort is located off highway 89, 6 miles southwest of Tahoe City. For more information call 530-525-2992 or visit www.pacificfinearts.com. You can also see more information on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PacificFineArts and Twitter @PacificFineArts.

RED, WHITE AND TAHOE BLUE FESTIVAL Incline Village is proud to host the eighth annual Red, White and Tahoe Blue Festival July 3-5 featuring live performances by Billy Ray Cyrus and the Reno Philharmonic. A full calendar of 25 events spans the three days making this an Independence Day spectacular.

Take the kids out for the Children’s Patriotic Chalk Drawing, Ice Cream Eating Contest, Kids’ Bike Parade and more. For the adults, head over to the Wine and Dine dinner or Beer and Brats event. Live music heats up the beach July 3, but moves to Village Green on July 4 and 5.

MSN ranks the Red, White and Tahoe Blue fireworks show as one of the best in the country.

Check out www.redwhitetahoeblue.org for a full schedule of events, tickets and more.

Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks in Ski Country, 2014 Ed. Monday, June 30, 2014, by Megan Barber Headed to the hills for the 4th of July? We've mapped the best fireworks shows in ski towns from Stowe to Tahoe. Because fire danger in the mountains can kick up at any time, it's a good idea to check with the local visitor's bureau to make sure the shows are still going off as planned (high winds or temperatures can cancel the fireworks). And whether you're camping or staying at one of 38 Essential Ski Town Hotels, be careful out there. Sparklers and dry forests do not mix!

Big Sky Community Park Put on by the Big Sky Arts Council, the show opens at 6 pm with a bouncy castle and climbing wall for kids, and funk/soul concert by Seattle band Freddy Pink at 7. Fireworks go off at 9.

Spotted Elk Road, Gallatin National Forest, Big Sky, MT 59716 Website Snow King Mountain There are two places to watch fireworks in Jackson Hole, the first at the base of Snow King Mountain in the town of Jackson. The Jackson Hole Rodeo will get going at the Teton County Fairgrounds at 8 pm and fireworks start at 10 pm.

400 Snow King Avenue, Jackson, WY 83001 Website Jackson Hole Mountain Resort The second option for Jackson Hole fireworks is at the Teton Village. Local favorite Mandatory Air will be playing in the Teton Village Commons from 7:00 pm to 10:00, at which ponts the fireworks at the base of JHMR come on.

3200 West McCollister Drive, Teton National Forest, Jackson, WY 83001 (307) 733-2292 Website Kings Beach Boardwalk Kings Beach will be throwing down the fireworks at 9:30 pm, with plenty of space on Kings Beach State Park to view the show, although you can pay $15 to watch from a deck party at the North Tahoe Events Center.

8318 North Lake Boulevard, Tahoe National Forest, Toiyabe National Forest, Kings Beach, CA 96143

530-546-9000 Website Tahoe City Commons Tahoe City's fireworks start at dusk on the 4th and is best seen from Commons Beach - show up early to secure a picnic spot.

Commons Beach Road, Tahoe National Forest, Tahoe City, CA 96145 Website Incline Beach The fireworks off of Incline Village kick off at 9:30 on the 4th, but keep in mind that all Incline's beaches are accesible only by town residents or in-town hotel guests.

Lakeshore Boulevard, Incline Village, NV Website Truckee Truckee will be hosting its 4th of July show on West End Park on the shores of Donner Lake.

Expect good ol' fashion potato bag races and pie eating contests during the day, along with concerts before the 9:30 pm fireworks show. If the beach is packed, take to the hills around Donner Lake to view the show from above.

Donner Pass Road & South Shore Drive, Truckee, CA 96161 Website South Lake Tahoe South Lake's fireworks show starts at 9:45 pm on the 4th, and there are a ton of viewing options.

The best view may be out on a boat on the lake, and spots on the Tahoe Queen and M.S. Dixie are available, along with a variety of beachfront viewing locations.

Lakeview Avenue, Toiyabe National Forest, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (530) 541-5255 Website The Village At Mammoth Fireworks will be going down in the Village at 9:15 pm, along with concerts and fire dancing beforehand.

6201 Minaret Road, Inyo National Forest, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 Website Crowley Lake Fish Camp Mammoth Lakes' annual fireworks show kicks off at 9:15 on the 4th on Crowley Lake. Live music will be going down on Crowley Lake Fish Camp starting at 4:30. Admission is $25 for cars and $5 for walkers & bikers.

1149 South Landing Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 (760) 934-8989 ext. 222.

Website Union Arena Community Center

If you're in the Killington area this 4th of July, stop by the Union Arena in Woodstock for the fireworks, which should go down around 8 pm.

80 U.S. 4, Woodstock, VT 05091 (802) 457-2500 Website Sugarbush Mountain Resort While 4th of July celebrations will be held during the day in Warren Village proper, the fireworks show will be going off around 9:45 pm at the base of Sugarbush's Lincoln Peak.

Sugarbush Village Road, Green Mountain National Forest, Warren, VT 05674 Website Mayo Field Don't miss Stowe's Fourth of July parade at 1:00 pm along Main Street. Setting up for fireworks begins at 6 pm at Mayo Field.

Weeks Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672 Website Stratton Mountain Resort Along with gondola rides, hay rides, and live music, Stratton will be hosting fireworks in the base village at 9 pm on Saturday, July 5th.

5 Village Lodge Road, Green Mountain National Forest, Stratton, VT 05155 (800) 787-2886 Website Town Park Sugarloaf & the town of Carrabassett Valley will be celebrating the 4th in Town Park with live music starting at 5:30 and fireworks starting around 9 pm.

1001 Carriage Road, Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947 207-235-2233 Website Loring Farr Park If you're around Snowbasin or Powder Mountain for the holiday, don't miss the fireworks at 10 pm at Loring Farr Park. Promoters claim it's Utah's biggest fireworks show, but it might not hold a candle to the demolition derby that goes down beforehand.

Jefferson Avenue & 17th Street, Ogden, UT 84404 Website Park City Mountain Resort Park City's fireworks will start at dusk at the base of Park City Mountain Resort.

1310 Lowell Avenue, Park City, UT 84060 (435) 649-8111 Website Sandpoint City Beach Park

Fireworks start at dusk at Sandpoint's City Beach Park on the 4th.

Bridge Street, Sandpoint, ID 83864 Website Beaver Creek From noon to 5:00 pm, kids will love Stars, Stripes, and Slides, a festival of slides and bounce houses. Then, fireworks will kick off at the Beaver Creek base area around 9:30 pm.

Beaver Creek Place, White River National Forest, Avon, CO 81620 Website Vail Village The annual Vail Fireworks Show takes place at Golden Peak at dusk, which is around 9:30 pm.

There's also a huge parade from Golden Peak to Lionshead earlier in the day, at 10:00 am.

Vail Road, White River National Forest, Vail, CO 81657 Website Howelsen Hill Steamboat celebrates the 4th with the Pro Rodeo Series that kicks off at 6:30 pm at the Romick Arena. The fireworks show starts at 9 pm at the base of the town ski hill, Howelsen Hill.

Howelsen Parkway, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 Website Aspen Mountain Fireworks will light up the sky around 9:15 pm over Aspen Mountain. The show will be visible from almost any spot in town.

601 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 80611 (970) 300-7014 Website Telluride Town Park & Campground At dusk, Telluride firefighters shoot off fireworks above Town Park making for a display that you can see from almost anywhere in town. We prefer watching them on a blanket in the park.

Telluride, CO 81435 Website Riverwalk Center Breckenridge's fireworks will start at 9:45 pm on the 4th downtown at the Riverwalk Center.

150 West Adams Avenue, White River National Forest, Breckenridge, CO 80424 (970) 547-3100 Website Frisco Bay Marina The town of Frisco lights up the skies over Dillon Reservoir with one of the best shows in Colorado. Start time is 9:30 pm at Frisco Bay Marina, but you can see the fireworks from most places around the lake. Beware of traffic when the show concludes.

902 South Main Street, White River National Forest, Breckenridge, CO 80424

Website Grand Lake If you're in the Winter Park area this holiday, fireworks will be lighting up Grand Lake around 9:30 pm.

Lake Avenue, Grand Lake, CO 80447 Website Whitefish City Beach Whitefish's fireworks will be going off over the lake starting a little after dusk, which may be close to 10:30 on the 4th. Best seen from the water or City Beach.

Oregon Avenue, Whitefish, MT 59937 Website Wood River High School Sun Valley area folks will want to head down to Hailey, where the explosions in the sky will start around dusk at Wood River High School, but will be easily viewable from anywhere in town.

Fox Acres Drive, Hailey, ID 83333 (208) 578-5020 Website

Fourth of July Celebrations at Lake Tahoe 6/30/2014

Fireworks & Festivals Celebrating the 4th of July Lake Tahoe Fourth 4th of July fireworks shows and events are happening all around the lake. At South Lake Tahoe, the show titled Lights on the Lake is rated as one of the top fireworks shows in the whole country.

4th of July at Lake Tahoe

Lights on the Lake at South Lake Tahoe - Lights on the Lake in South Lake Tahoe is always spectacular. It's synchronized to music and is billed as one of the largest and best Independence Day fireworks displays in the country. The show is free and starts at around 9:45 p.m. For a really good view, book a ride on one of Lake Tahoe's paddlewheelers and watch from out on the water. Here are some other good viewing spots...

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Celebration Fireworks

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Fireworks Events North Tahoe 4th of July Fireworks Tahoe Incline Village

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Nevada Beach Timber Cove Marina Bijou Community Park Tallac Historic Site The beach at Edgewood-Tahoe golf course From the air - Reno Tahoe Helicopters

For information about where each of these spots are located, refer to the Lights on the Lake website. Thousands of people go up to Lake Tahoe for this show, so get there early to ensure a good viewing place.

Red, White, and Tahoe Blue - Red, White, and Tahoe Blue is a 4th of July festival in Incline Village and Crystal Bay on Lake Tahoe's north shore. There will four days of events, starting on Thursday, July 3, and running through Saturday, July 5. The big fireworks show will launch from barges off Incline Beach at about 9:30 p.m. on the 4th of July. Check out the online events calendar for details about what is happening and when.

(Note about access to Incline Beach - Incline Beach is private property belonging to the local homeowners' association. Access is restricted to residents and their guests between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. After 8 p.m., the public can visit the beach and watch the fireworks. Learn more about beaches in the Incline Village area, both public and private.)

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July 3rd Fireworks Show & Beach Party - From north Lake Tahoe's Kings Beach, just west of Incline Village on the California side, freely enjoy a fireworks show launched out over the water at 9:30 p.m. From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., a Beach Party will be happening at Kings Beach and the adjacent North Tahoe Event Center. There will be food vendors, a beer/wine and mixed drink garden, free watermelon eating, sand castle building, patriotic costume contests, games, music

and live entertainment, fireworks glow toys, souvenirs and more. Bring your own beach chairs and blankets.

Tahoe City 4th of July Celebration - The annual Tahoe City 4th of July Celebration and fireworks show in Tahoe City will take place at Commons Beach on Lake Tahoe's west shore.

There will be a street fair during the day, with a dunk tank, climbing wall, corn hole games, and more. Bring a picnic and enjoy the fireworks starting at dusk on the Fourth. It's free to attend, but donations to support this and future fireworks shows are gladly accepted. For more information, call (530) 583-3348.

Truckee 4th of July Parade and Fireworks - This old-fashioned hometown 4th of July parade starts at 10 a.m. on the west end of town and marches down Donner Pass Road, ending up in historic downtown Truckee. Fireworks and a family activities day will be at Donner Lake's West End Beach starting at 9 a.m. Get the details from the Fourth of July at West End Beach flyer.

Fireworks are at 9:30 p.m. and will be visible from many spots around the lake.

4th of July in Reno and Sparks

In addition to Lake Tahoe 4th of July fun, there are lots of Fourth of July fireworks and events going on in the Truckee Meadows metro area of Reno and Sparks. Do remember, though, that personal fireworks are illegal all over northern Nevada and at Lake Tahoe. Don't risk starting a wildfire, injuring someone, and/or getting arrested - enjoy one of our spectacular professional fireworks shows instead.

4 events this week in Reno-Tahoe area Kathleen Eagan, RGJ9:02 p.m. PDT June 28, 2014

3. North Lake Tahoe Thursday, Friday, Saturday Red, White and Tahoe Blue Festival: The annual Independence Day festival at Incline Village and Crystal Bay includes three days of free events like the rubber duck races, ice cream eating contest, veteran tribute and parade. Friday night culminates with the best fireworks display watching in the country. Ticketed events: Wine & Dine in the Grove and Reno Philharmonic on Friday; Beer & Brats and Billy Ray Cyrus Benefit for Michael Landsberry on Saturday. Full Schedule of events at www.redwhiteandtahoeblue.com.

4. South Lake Tahoe Saturday Sinbad: Ranked by Comedy Central as one of the top 100 standup comedians of all time, the stand-up comedian and actor, whose observational humor led to numerous television and film roles starting in the 1990s, headlines at 9 p.m. Saturday. Sinbad was a regular from 1988 to 1991 on “The Cosby Show” spinoff, “A Different World,” and had his own show, “The Sinbad Show” plus roles in feature movies. Where: MontBleu Resort, 55 Highway 50. Details: 888-829-7630 or www.montbleuresort.com.

North Tahoe embracing 4th of July with myriad events Published: June 28, 2012 By: admin, In: Outdoor & Sports, North Lake Tahoe celebrates the Independence Day holiday with multiple fireworks displays.

Kings Beach hosts its annual fireworks display July 3 with a free show just off its sandy shores at 9:30pm, as well as a deck party celebration at the North Tahoe Event Center beginning at 6pm.

The deck party, which runs $15/person at the door, includes live music, food vendors and a no host bar.

Tahoe City celebrates 66 years of fireworks at Commons Beach at 9:30pm July 4. This event is free and is also well attended by families, many of whom bring picnic baskets and lawn chairs to make an evening of the festivities. Tahoe City’s lakeside restaurants are also popular with those watching the fireworks, with many offering special menus for the night, but book out early.

Reservations are recommended.

Incline Village takes things to the next level with their traditional Red, White & Tahoe Blue festivities scheduled for June 30 through July 7, which includes patriotic chalk drawing contest, opening ceremonies with a tribute to veterans, Tahoe Firecracker Trail Trek, flag raising, USAF California Air National Guard Static Display and fireworks July 4 at 9:30pm off Incline Beach.

In Truckee, the free Truckee 4th of July Parade, a kid-friendly hometown event, takes place July 4, 10am, along Donner Pass Road and ending in historic downtown. Before the festivities, visitors can take part in the Truckee Firecracker Mile, perfect for all ages and starting at Tahoe Forest Hospital. The 4th of July Fireworks is scheduled at West End Beach at Donner Lake at dusk.

Summer Splendor 06/26/2014 Do you remember roasting marshmallows around the campfire, or building the biggest sandcastle on the beach? Last summer’s mosquito bites may be long forgotten, but a few days of family fun will be remembered for a lifetime. These four itineraries feature the perfect balance of rest, play and learning— all while keeping everyone entertained.

1 / LAKE ESCAPE: North Lake Tahoe Poke around small-town galleries and shops, rent beach cruisers or get the hang of stand-up paddleboarding along Lake Tahoe’s uncrowded North Shore. The laid-back vibes, stunning scenery and endless options for fun will keep the whole family happy.

Are you a flying squirrel or are you a monkey? Find out at Granlibakken’s Treetop Adventure Park. More than 70 platforms, zip lines and aerial walkways will build confidence for everyone over five years old.

For high-altitude thrills, take the family to Northstar California Resort where, for $25, kids can have unlimited roller-skating and disc golf time, and enjoy a one-time gem panning and mini-golf session.

Snuggle around a fire pit with cocoa and s’mores with Tahoe Star Tours. All ages (between 20-210 pounds) will let their limitations go and fly high at the popular Apex Bungy—a safe, fun and challenging bungee trampoline—and the Apex Ropes Challenge, featuring eight different self-guided elements that combine education and recreation for ages six and up. The Northstar Bike Academy will improve all bikers’ techniques, step up their riding skills and enhance overall riding.

EAT: A night on the town in Truckee starts and ends at Moody’s Bistro, Bar & Beats. Go for the fine food and stay for rock and blues later on.

SLEEP: Northstar California Resort makes a perfect base camp for family fun and offers lodging options to please all parties and budgets—from hotel-style rooms and condominiums to mountain homes and lofts. Free scenic lift rides for hiking or sightseeing (two per stay); access to outdoor spas, swimming pools, a game room and arcade; and DVD/movie rentals will keep everyone happy and well rested.

2 / WESTWARD HO!: Virginia City, Nevada The wild, wild west is still alive and well in Virginia City. Climb aboard the Virginia and Truckee Railroad in Virginia City for a Comstock history adventure, where you’ll ride by mines and old towns as the

conductor tells tales about the old days. Keep on the lookout for wild mustangs and a gunslinger or two.

Find out first-hand what it’s like to travel the country by stagecoach with a ride on one of TNT Stagelines’ authentic coaches pulled by a six-horse hitch. You’ll travel cross-country at real stage speed, complete with all the shakes and rattles. Seventeen million dollar's worth of gold and silver was carted out of the hills at the Chollar Mine, one of the Comstock’s richest. Find out how the miners drilled, blasted and hauled ore from deep inside the mountain. On the first Friday of each month—from August through October—all 17 museums in Virginia City are free to the public at Flashback Fridays: Free Museum Days.

EAT: Head over to Café Del Rio for some of the best Mexican food around.

SLEEP: Silverland Inn and Suites is family-friendly, centrally located and the perfect spot for taking a swim or an afternoon nap.

3 / BIG FUN IN THE BIG CITY: San Francisco Park the car and enjoy the view from a cable car or city bus with a CityPASS. For a narrated tour at your own pace, hop on the Big Bus for an open-air trip across the Golden Gate Bridge or a ride around town.

Hop off at the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park for a journey through the rainforest, the coral reef and the planetarium. There’s more to explore on Pier 15. Art, science and fun are hard to tell apart at The Tinkering Studio, the fog bridge and 600 other interactive exhibits at the Exploratorium.

Shake hands with an upside down hologram of yourself, see yourself in black and white in the monochrome room, and enjoy views of the bay as you learn about tides and ocean ecosystems. Play on the roof at Yerba Buena Gardens, check out the Children’s Creative Museum or take a ride on the handcarved, antique carousel.

EAT: Devour dessert first at the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop or head to Lori’s Diner (also in Ghirardelli Square) for a '50s-style burger and shake.

SLEEP: History buffs and ghost hunters will love the Victorian splendor of the Queen Anne Hotel, nestled in the prestigious Pacific Heights neighborhood.

4 / THREE PARKS IN THREE DAYS: Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite Three national parks in three days may seem a bit rushed, but the Majestic Mountain Loop will give you plenty of time to take in the big trees, high waterfalls and wildflower meadows. The self-guided driving tour will take you through Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite without a punishing schedule or worrying about directions.

Sequoia’s Giant Forest Museum will give you the whole story, but a hike up Moro Rock and an up-close view of the largest living tree will never be forgotten. Explore the underworld at Boyden Cavern, or take a lovely short walk around Zumwalt Meadow. You may even see a bear! Park the car and ride the free shuttles around Yosemite Valley to visit the village and the Nature Center at Happy Isles. Hang out near

the Merced River or one of the meadows for wildlife watching or a picnic.

EAT: Grab picnic supplies at Degnan’s Deli, Yosemite’s best sandwich stop.

SLEEP: Wuksachi Lodge is convenient and comfortable in the heart of Sequoia National Park, while the Oakhurst Lodge is right at Yosemite’s doorstep.

Casinos: Lighting up Tahoe for July 4

By Mel Shields Bee Correspondent Published: Thursday, Jun. 26, 2014 - 10:00 am Independence Day used to be the highlight of the summer social season at Lake Tahoe back when it was a prime destination for estate owners from Northern California. It’s still one of the busiest weekends at the lake, even though the visitors now come from a wider spectrum of society.

There is still an amount of privilege involved. For example, this year Incline Village will restrict access to Burnt Cedar, Ski and Incline beaches (until 10 p.m. July 4; fireworks at 9:30) to local property owners.

Fortunately for the public at large, such inaccessibility is minimal, and there are plenty of places elsewhere for lovers of pyrotechnics, starting with events leading up to the holiday.

Kings Beach State Recreation Area stages its Fireworks & Beach Party at the North Tahoe Event Center, 8318 North Lake Blvd. Events run from 4 to 10 p.m. with food vendors, free watermelon and games and contests leading to the fireworks culmination. Some preferred seats are reserved for $12; otherwise, viewing is on the beach.

Now for the holiday itself.

Tahoe City offers an afternoon of activities leading up to the fireworks off Commons Beach (9:30 p.m.). A Fun Zone (11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 315 North Lake Blvd.) will bring back memories of the old county fair with a dunk tank, bean bag toss, and more simple pleasures.

There were some tense moments earlier this year with some legal wrangling over the environmental impact of the annual “Lights on the Lake” display at South Lake Tahoe. The show got the go-ahead and will take place around 9:45 p.m. It consistently draws more than 100,000 viewers with the best spots being Lakeview Commons/El Dorado Beach, Nevada Beach, Timber Cove Marina, Edgewood Tahoe, and on both private boats and public ones such as the M S. Dixie II and Tahoe Queen paddle wheelers.

Downtown Reno has decided to forgo any big celebration this year, but the new ownership of the Nugget, 1100 Nugget Ave., Sparks, will continue Star-Spangled Sparks (4-10 p.m.) The fireworks display has been pretty astounding the past few years, with bursts from both Nugget

towers. The accompanying daytime activities at the Sparks Marina have been eliminated this year, so all the action takes place on Victorian Square in front of the Nugget.

This weekend The Nugget will host Rockabilly Riot today through Tuesday with 5,000 participants and up to 600 hot rods with drag racing, burnout and model-car contests, as well as bands.

Casino highlights include a Southern Rock premiere event at Thunder Valley with Greg Allman, Leon Russell and Blackwater on Saturday (6:30 p.m.; $29.25, $39.25, $52.75, $69.75, and $84.95; thundervalleyresort.com); and a little “We Are Family’ with Sister Sledge at Cache Creek on Saturday (9 p.m.; $35, $45, $55; cachcreek.com).

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2014/06/26/6511603/casinos-lighting-up-tahoefor.html#storylink=cpy

North Lake Tahoe Truckee business announcements 6/25/2014 NLTRA seeks marketing committee members The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association is accepting applications for two open seats on the association’s marketing committee.

Appointments will be made based on marketing experience, type of business the member is affiliated with and the portion of North Tahoe the member represents. One term goes through December 2014, the other through December 2015. Once terms expire, committee members can reapply for a new three-year term.

Applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume to Chief Marketing Officer Andy Chapman of the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association by June 20, via email at Andy@GoTahoeNorth.com or by mail at Attention: Marketing Committee Application, North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association, P.O. Box 5459, Tahoe City, CA 96145.

The marketing committee is one of six North Lake Tahoe Resort Association committees. Other committees are dedicated to infrastructure, transportation, finance, and advising the Chamber of Commerce. Committee membership includes North Lake Tahoe Resort Association board members as well as community members.

“Knowledge Bites” to focus on marketing basics On June 18 the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce is launching the Knowledge Bites Series, covering doing business one bite at a time.

Knowledge Bites provides strategies for pivotal business skills broken into small, digestible pieces. Through case studies, expert assessments will provide valuable, real world strategies useful for anyone in attendance. The first Knowledge Bites will address marketing basics.

The case studies will be Donner Lake Marina & Watersports and Grateful Gardens. Expert assessments will be provided by Dave Sick of Brand Breadcrumbs, and Meg Urie Rab of SmallPond Studio, 8:30-10 a.m. at the Truckee Tahoe Airport, 10356 Truckee Airport Road.

Cost is $10 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members and includes light breakfast catered

by Full Belly Deli. Registration is required at www.TruckeeChamber.com.

Knowledge Bites will be held every month, the 3rd Wednesday of the month, at the Truckee Airport, and will highlight a different topic, case studies, and experts each month. The Knowledge Bites series is presented by the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Plumas Bank. The June breakfast sponsor is the Truckee Tahoe Airport District.

For more information, contact the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce at 530-587-8808 or email info@truckee.com.

TCPUD enhances capital project delivery The Tahoe City Public Utility District (TCPUD) has enhanced its utility and parks capital project management capabilities with the hiring of Sarah Hussong Johnson as the newest member of the District’s engineering deam.

Hussong Johnson has a Bachelor’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Michigan and is a registered professional civil engineer in the State of California. She has more than 13 years of experience in the development and implementation of civil engineering projects, specializing in the design, construction and management of municipal infrastructure improvements.

She comes to the District from the City of South Lake Tahoe where she led the City’s Engineering division as the city engineer and worked on a diverse portfolio of capital improvement and water quality projects, including the Bijou Area Erosion Control Project and the Harrison Avenue Streetscape Improvement Project, which are public-private partnerships.

“The TCPUD position appealed to me because the District has an interesting mix of capital projects, from recreation to utility infrastructure,” said Hussong Johnson. I had a great tenure with the City, and am looking forward to this new opportunity with TCPUD.”

Top 5 Dog Friendly National Parks Getting ready for summer travel? Why not pick one of these pet-friendly natural wonders to check out. From desert dunes to forest falls, there is something for everyone, even the dog, on this list.

1. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area – Arizona Nestled amongst the amazing rock formations in the Arizona desert are 2,000 miles of shoreline oasis that make up Lake Powell. A stunning retreat, the area is definitely pet-friendly, with lots of activities for you and your dog. Last year they even hosted a “dogs at the lake” photo contest.

Lodging  

Lake Powell Resort & Defiance House Lodge – $20 flat fee per animal, per stay) Houseboats (economy and deluxe $10 a day fee)

Activities      

Powerboats $10 pet fee per day (note, for people who rent both a houseboat and a powerboat there is only one $10 daily fee, not two) Trails around the lake Swimming Boating Paddle boarding Inner tubing

Restaurants  

Latitude 37 Wahweap Grille

For more information on Lake Powell., visit their website.

2. Great Sand Dunes National Park – Colorado

Containing the largest sand dunes in North America, Great Sand Dunes National Park has a host of things for you and your canine companion to do while visiting. In Fact, they are one of the few national parks that allows dogs in most areas of the park.

Lodging  

Great Sand Dunes Oasis Campground Zapata Falls Campground (Be sure to bring enough water for yourself and the dogs as there is no running water)

Activities   

Zapata Falls Medano Creek wading Hiking

Restaurants  

Yak n Cracker Cafe San Luis Valley Brewing Company

For more information on the Great Sand Dunes National Park, visit their website.

3. North Lake Tahoe – California & Nevada A stunningly clear lake nestled in the mountains with quaint shops and year-round activities, North Tahoe is just as fun for dogs as it is for people. With a dog-friendly amenity list a milelong, you are sure to find something you can do together.

Lodging       

The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe Cedar Glenn Lodge Holiday House Rustic Cottages Tahoma Lodge Tahoma Meadows Bed & Breakfast Cottages

Activities  

Thunderbird Beach Chimney Beach Skunk Harbor Coon Street Beach (specified Dog Beach south of the boat launch area with picnic tables and bathrooms)

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Watermans Landing Carnelian Bay Marlette Lake Shirley Canyon Rim Trail (start in Tahoe City and walk along the Truckee River. There are an abundance of swimming holes perfect for dogs (and their owner) to cool off in Truckee River Rafting) Tahoe City Dog Park Tahoe Regional Park Tahoe City Winter Sports Park City Golf Course Watermans Landing Peaks & Paws Festival (August)

Restaurants           

Auld Dubliner The Blue Agave Brockway Bakery CB’s Pizza & Grill Char-Pit Dam Café Kings Café Lakeside Pizza Old Post Office Coffee Shop Rosies Café Syd’s Bagelry Tahoe House Bakery Mamasake Obexers Watermans Landing

For more information on North Lake Tahoe, go to their website.

4. Great Falls National Park – Virginia Full of lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls, Great Falls National Park is a forest retreat located just 15 minutes from bustling Washington, D.C. If you are looking for history on your trip, this is the place to go. George Washintong’s Mount Vernon Estate, Museum, and Gardens in a very pet-friendly attraction. Washington himself was acutally a huge dog lover and is credited with developing the American Foxhound breed.

Lodging They have over 50 dog friendly hotels in the area. Check them all out here.

Activities  

Hiking Paradise Springs Wineries

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George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate Canine Cruises on the Potomac

5. Yosemite National Park – California With big pine trees and the smell of sage, there is really no bad time to visit Yosemite with your dog (though it’s beautiful in the snow).

Lodging             

Tenaya Lodge The Groveland Hotel America’s Best Value Inn Mariposa Lodge Best Western Plus Yosemite Way Station Motel Comfort Inn Yosemite Valley Gateway Yosemite Pines RV Restort Yosemite’s SierraScape Vacation Rentals The Pines Resort Yosemite Gold Country Lodge The Monarch Narrow Gauge Inn Hotel Charlotte Sunset Inn

Activities   

Sleigh ride (winter only and as long as no one else in the sled minds) Hiking Biking

Restaurants 

Degnan’s Deli

For more information, visit their website.

Read more at http://theilovedogssite.com/top-5-dog-friendly-nationalparks/#owyQTEfMVoTtx2HM.99

How to Celebrate America’s Birthday Party in Reno/Tahoe June 23, 2014 By Meghan Enjoying the summer sun, eating the juiciest watermelon, and wearing red, white and blue are some of my favorite highlights during the Fourth of July holiday, but the fireworks display is what really puts the “boom” in the holiday weekend!

Reno/Tahoe knows how to party; but above all, we know how to throw America’s birthday party! The Fourth of July weekend is exciting and full of fireworks shows, activities and good ol’ American fun. Here’s what tops my list when visiting Reno/Tahoe on Independence Day! South Lake Tahoe’s “Lights on The Lake – Jellyfish, butterflies, smiley faces, oh my! These are just some of the exotic pyrotechnics you’ll see when you watch one of the country’s top-rated fireworks show according to NBC’s Today Show. “Lights on the Lake” is a magical 25-minute fireworks display of vibrant colors visible all over town. Don’t be late! The show starts on July 4 around 9:45 p.m. tahoesouth.com Traveler Tip: Board the Tahoe Queen or the M.S. Dixie for a fireworks cruise and view the show from the water. Click here to reserve your tickets!

Fireworks and Party at Kings Beach – Start the celebration on July 3 with an afternoon beach party at the North Tahoe Event Center deck. Dance to DJs and live music, while enjoying food, exploring a beer garden and shopping local vendors. Finally, watch the skies light up at 9:30 p.m. with a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Tahoe. gotahoenorth.com 15th Annual Star Spangled Sparks – Northern Nevada’s largest fireworks display always tops my list of things to see. The show starts July 4 around 9:45 p.m. and starts off from John Ascuaga’s Nugget rooftop surrounding you with an impressive umbrella of fireworks. The entire family can enjoy food vendors and live entertainment in Victorian Square which will keep you dancing all night. janugget.com Traveler Tip: Tune-in to KKOH News Talk 780 to listen to music synchronized with the fireworks display.

Red, White and Tahoe Blue – This multi-day festival highlights the true meaning of Independence Day by promoting community spirit. Between July 3 – 5, visitors and locals alike enjoy dozens of events throughout Incline Village and Crystal Bay, which includes parades, concerts, veteran tributes, food events, community fairs and more. MSN ranks the Red, White

and Tahoe Blue fireworks show as one of the best in the country! Make sure you catch the fireworks display on July 4 at Incline Beach at 9:30 p.m. redwhitetahoeblue.org Family Fun in Carson Valley – Family time is the focus for the Fourth of July holiday in Carson Valley. Come dressed in your best patriotic colors and enjoy the 2nd Annual “Freedom 5K Fun Run & Walk/Yankee Doodle Chalk Artfest.” While you’re here, visit the neighboring town of Minden to enjoy free popsicles, music, and family fun, including children’s bicycle decorating followed by a children’s parade, water games and bounce houses. visitcarsonvalley.org Genoa Americana Celebration – For the first year ever, the town of Genoa in partnership with the Traditional American Music Project brings a full day of music this Fourth of July. Listen to five different bands play bluegrass, jazz and patriotic tunes, watch a children’s parade, enjoy instrument demonstrations, jam sessions and more at the Mormon Station State Park. genoanevada.org Traveler Tip: While you’re there visit Genoa Bar, Nevada’s oldest saloon!

Virginia City’s Fourth of July Celebration – “Step back in time” and venture to the historic mining town of Virginia City. Have fun watching the Fourth of July Parade and the Comstock Cowboys Second Amendment Concert! Enjoy arts and crafts vendors and local museums, then finish the day with one of the longest fireworks displays in the region with their 25-minute Fireworks Spectacular on July 4 starting around 9:30 p.m. visitvirginiacitynv.com

The 10 Manliest Races in North America We found the toughest, most macho courses on the continent

By Yelena Moroz, June 20, 2014 When the United States was growing, men performed noble tasks like trekking the wilderness for new land or hunting wild game to feed their families. You too should feel the urge to tap into your manly ambitions—you just lack the time of our forefathers. But if you're into sports like biking, skiing, or running, these intense races can serve as a way to feed your macho needs. From the bright lights of Las Vegas to harrowing winter peaks, the following 10 endurance events embody the ruggedness that is manhood.

Gore-Tex Grand Traverse “We come to worship the church of pain,” tout participants during the pre-race prayer of this backcountry ski traverse that begins at midnight in Colorado. The 40-mile track can take up to 16 hours of combing through the Rocky’s Elk Mountain Range as racers climb more than 7,800 vertical feet through challenging terrain, including Death Path, a steep cliff where losing traction means sliding down 200 feet into a frigid creek. Participants must find their own route to checkpoints and know how to erect a camp within minutes. “Staying mentally alert at 4 a.m. and maintaining Zen with your partner are challenges that are often overlooked,” says Bryan Wickenhauser, race co-director and three-time winner.

Tour d’Afrique North American Epic About 20 cyclers will ride for more than 6,000 miles during the nearly four-month trek from Anchorage, Alaska, to Mexico City, Mexico. (Before you think about signing up, make sure you can cycle at least 60 miles per day for multiple days in a row.) The itinerary includes amazing locales like the remote Alaskan Highway, the Yukon Territory, Yellowstone, Utah’s Canyonlands, the Grand Canyon, Baja’s cactus fields, and old colonial towns in central Mexico.

You’ll deal with fluctuating weather and road conditions—one day you’ll be fighting off swarms of mosquitos, a few days later combating dessert dust. By the time you make it to Mazatlan, a round of tequila is in order. (tourdafrique.com)

Escape from Alcatraz Triathalon Find your inner Clint Eastwood by completing San Francisco’s iconic triathlon. Your first feat: a 1.5-mile-swim in the 55-degree waters of the San Francisco Bay adjacent to The Rock. All 2,000 competitors unload from the ferry in less than six minutes, meaning that if you don’t paddle quickly, you’ll get jumped. You’ll then pedal up hills for the next 18-miles—some are so steep that going 2 miles-per-hour will be excruciating—to Golden Gate Park where you start the 8mile trail run. If that’s not bad enough, eventually you reach the deep sand of Baker Beach, where a dreaded 400-step “sand ladder” is in your way before the finish.

The Iditarod Trail Invitational If you don’t have dogs that mush on command, this is the next best thing. You can hike, ski, or bike the 350-mile traverse, and the first checkpoint is 57 miles into barren Alaska. Competitors face subzero temperatures and gale-force winds that could wipe out all visibility. Navigating this frozen land on two wheels might seem crazy, but that’s exactly what men did during the Nome Gold Rush in 1900. Completing one of the most remote and longest winter Ultra races in the world might just give you enough pluck to start training for the 1,000 mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.

Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas Marathon & Half Marathon Racing on the Strip is essentially running in a neon-lit block party. Unlike most crack-of-dawn races, the Sin City marathon and half starts at 4:30 p.m.—giving you plenty of time to recover from partying the night before. The weekend-long event comes with admission to the pre-race concert and post-race nightclubs. Because after your race, you deserve to see ladies dancing on VIP tables at Tao.

IRONMAN Lake Tahoe Completing an Ironman is a feat, completing an Ironman more than a mile above sea level is astounding. The Lake Tahoe circuit is said to be the most challenging Ironman race in the world.

“Everyone will have more difficult time breathing,” says Keats McGonigal, west coast operations manager for Ironman. “Plus, the total elevation gain on this bike course overshadows the hill profiles at other Ironman races.” Stock up on those gel packs because you’ll be pedaling upward 8,000 feet along the 112-mile bike course. Plus, you can finish the marathon portion like an Olympian in Squaw Valley, home to the 1960 winter games. (ironman.com)

Ragnar Relay Washington D.C. The 200-mile relay is ideal for patriots and history buffs. Exchange points and paths include Fort Frederick, a pivotal landmark during the Revolutionary War; Antietam Battlefield, a spot known for the Civil War’s bloodiest day; and Mount Vernon Trail along Arlington National Cemetery with rewarding views of the Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Memorials. Nature enthusiasts

will have their share of vistas as well—the lucky guy running the third leg will ascend 1,200 feet in just over 2 miles during his 7.8 mile run through Green Ridge State Forest.

Hotter’N Hell Hundred One hundred miles in 100-degree heat sounds downright suicidal—yet, more than 12,000 cyclers choose to test their limits under the Wichita Falls, Texas, sun each year. The race was established in 1982 to celebrate Wichita Falls’ centennial and the tenacity of its early settlers. Here is your chance to find the pioneer within, one who won’t be deterred by stove-top-hot concrete. (hh100.org)

Tuckerman Inferno Competitors of this New Hampshire adventure pentathlon finish by skiing or snowboarding down the 280-degree bowl of the Tuckerman Ravine—a tribute to the American Inferno ski races of the 1930s. The mountain drops 4,300 feet in 3.6 miles, so don’t be surprised if it feels like you’re falling down an elevator shaft. Before you take this legendary slalom, get ready to run 8.3 miles, kayak for 5.5 miles through Class II rapids, bike 18.2 miles, and then hike 3 miles uphill.

The Bourbon Chase When it comes to stamina, Octoberfest has nothing on the 200-mile relay race along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail. (Yes, delicious bourbon awaits you at the finish.) Teams of 12 must alternate running 36 legs, day and night, for about 30 hours through Bluegrass country’s distilleries— including Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, and Wild Turkey. The winning team is awarded with tailored gift baskets filled with specialty bourbon, signed by their master distiller.

Adventure time: Tahoe celebrates full week of outdoor sports Jill Oberly 5:18 p.m. PDT June 19, 2014 There's plenty to do at North Lake Tahoe Adventure Sports Week, today through June 29. Trail running, triathlon, mountain biking, and stand up paddle boarding, are just a few of the competitive and non-competitive events that visitors can partake in.

The 10-day event showcases the wealth of Tahoe outdoor activities and also includes live music, outdoor movies and more.

"Part of it is, we had great competitive events on these two weekends in June and we realized that there's also so many other things going on in North Tahoe during that time as well," Todd Jackson, event director for Adventure Sports Week, said. "As a potential visitor you could come and race, but you could also go to a cool concert on the beach or do a trail run or something not competitive."

Adventure Sports Week events kick off on Friday, June 20 with a pre-run on the Burton Creek Trail course followed by the Solstice Stroll Classic Car Show in Downtown Tahoe City from 6 – 8 p.m. The Burton Creek Trail Run takes place on Sunday, June 22 and features a 6K, 12K, half marathon and 50K trail run.

Visitors can take advantage of the longest day of the year on Saturday with several events including Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race which is a four or eight hour mountain bike race that can be done solo or in teams of up to four individuals, and the Big Blue Waterman Challenge, a run, swim and paddle event.

Also on Saturday are a stand up paddle board demo and clinic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Commons Beach in Tahoe City and the Tahoe City Wine Walk where visitors can taste wine and sample food from noon to 4 p.m. along Lake Tahoe Blvd. The weekend caps off with a free outdoor concert on Commons Beach in Tahoe City on Sunday.

"The other part about it is you have a family and the husband or the wife is a competitive athlete and they may say 'Hey I am going to go do this race, here's my event schedule.' Our thought was that if they do, maybe they could bring their family and then they would have a lot more fun," Jackson said. "They can do that race and then that same day or the next day or the night before, the family can do something. It is amazing when you look and see all the things that are happening."

Events continue throughout the week of June 23 – 27 with a sunset kayak tour on Monday and an Adventure Sports Week movie night on Wednesday. Thursday features a pre-ride on the XTERRA Tahoe City bike course hosted by the Tahoe LUNA Chix. This event is open to anyone but is also an opportunity for those competing in the XTERRA events on June 28 to check out the bike course.

"We are hoping to see even more women competing in this year's events and getting out there to have fun and be active," Coral Taylor, Tahoe LUNA Chix MountainBike Team member said.

The LUNA Chix, a group of local women dedicated to bringing women together through sport and community, will also be hosting a triathlon clinic at 9 a.m. June 29 at West End Beach on Donner Lake in Truckee.

Two additional clinics will be held on June 27 ahead of the Tahoe City XTERRA events on Saturday. The first clinic at 5 p.m. will focus on the XTERRA discussing the course as well as racing and transitioning tips. This will be followed by an open water swim clinic at 6 p.m. which will provide a chance for participants to improve their open water swimming technique. Clinics and demos are open to anyone not just those competing in the weekend events.

The Tahoe City XTERRA on June 28 will feature three different events — a full XTERRA, an XTERRA sprint event and a run-bike-run Duathlon event.

"Adventure Sports Week is a wonderful event that promotes some of the amazing things this area has to offer," Taylor said. "And with so many different activities, there is something for everyone."

For more information and a full list of events, visit www.adventuresportsweektahoe.com or contact info@adventuresportsweek.com

Free Summer Music Concerts in 2014 6/19/2014 Enjoy Free Music Performances Around Reno / Tahoe Free music fills the air around Reno and at Lake Tahoe during the summer. Here are some of the free music concerts you can attend while enjoying the warm, sunny days of summer in the Reno / Tahoe region.

Free Music from Artown

All during July, Artown presents a number of free music events, including...

World Music Series - Music artists from around the world perform free concerts on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at the Wingfield Park Glenn Little Amphitheater. Escape the confines of Reno with sounds from around the globe. This concert series is presented by Artown.

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Concerts Schedule

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Casino Shows in Reno Free Concerts Reno Music Festival

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July 2 - Na Lei Hulu I Ka Wekiu July 9 - Carlos Nunez July 16 - Mariachi Sol De Mexico De Jose Hernandez July 23 - New York Gypsy All-Stars

Reno Municipal Band - Enjoy a free patriotic music performance in Wingfield Park on Friday, July 4. The show is part of a day of family activities during Artown.

Rollin' on the River - Local and regional bands perform on Fridays during July at the Glenn Little Amphitheater in Wingfield Park. The music starts at 5:30 p.m. and it's free to attend. Past performers have included Booker T. Jones, Jesse Colin Young, Crash Test Dummies, Charlie Musselwhite, Michelle Shocked, Todd Snider, Stacey Earle, David Lindley & Wally Ingram, Norton Buffalo and Maria Muldaur. No glass, outside alcohol, high back chairs, or pets are permitted.    

July 4 - Patriotic music in Wingfield Park July 11 - Los Pinguos from Argentina July 18 - Brad Wilson, guitar player from California July 25 - The System, tribute to Bob Seger

Monday Night Music Series - These free Artown performances will be at the Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater in Bartley Ranch Regional Park. All start at 7:30 p.m.

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July 7 - Colin Ross and Mig O'Hara - jazz and blues July 14 - Perla Batalla - songs from Leonard Cohen July 21 - Reno Philharmonic - Pops at the Ranch July 28 - Michael Kaeshammer - Canadian boogie woogie artist

More Music at Artown - There are a number of free musical performances around the Reno area during Artown. Check the Artown 2014 calendar for times and dates. There are also some featured performances where you have to buy tickets.

Summer Music Series at Lazy 5 Regional Park

Every Wednesday evening from June 25, 2014 through August 28, the Lazy 5 Regional Park offers free concerts showcasing local bands and a variety of musical styles. Concerts start at 6:30 p.m. The series sponsors are Washoe County Parks and Summit Christian Church. Additional sponsorship has been provided by Western Village, NV Energy, Shirley's Farmer's Markets, Laurie Brazier of State Farm, Pack N' Post of Spanish Springs, First Independent Bank, Heritage Bank of Nevada, Hobey's Casino, and Hippies. Lazy 5 Regional Park is located at 7100 Pyramid Way in Spanish Springs. Seating is on the lawn so bring blankets or low-back beach chairs.

Dinner or snacks in small coolers are welcome. Glass containers and pets are not allowed. There will be a farmers market and raffle prizes at every show. For more information, call (775) 8236500.          

June 25 - An evening of Vintage Rock featuring Tazer July 2 - Americana / Bluegrass by Southwestern Pilgrimage July 9 - Old Time Radio Show with The Gabardine Sisters July 16 - Tribute to the Band America by Ventura Highway July 23 - Instrumental Surf with The Mighty Surf Lords July 30 - A Musical Variety featuring Cosmic Boogaloo August 6 - Blues & Rock with the Rick Hammond Band August 13 - Americana/Bluegrass featuring Homemade Jam August 20 - An evening of Classic Rock with Midnight Fire August 27 - Squirrely & Soulful Bluegrass by Slide Mountain

Sky Tavern Summer Music Series

Sky Tavern Junior Ski Program, operated in facilities leased from the City of Reno, is the oldest and largest non-profit ski and snowboard program for youth in the United States. The city does not fund Sky Tavern - all funding comes from participants, grants, donations, and fundraisers.

Admission is free, with a suggested minimum $10 donation per adult to support the Sky Tavern Scholarship Fund. Concerts will be at Aspens at Sky Tavern, 21130 Mt. Rose Highway. Food and beer from Silver Peak will be available. Events are from 12 noon to 5 p.m.    

June 22 - The Novelists and Monique Jade July 20 - Rigorous Proof, Love Like Wes, Pieces of Eden August 17 - Mojo Green September 14 - CRVSH

Genoa Americana Celebration

Come to Mormon Station State Historic Park in Genoa to enjoy the free Genoa Americana Celebration on July 4, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You'll be able to enjoy bluegrass, traditional

jazz, string band, and old time music. The Carson City Cymphony will perform at 4:30 p.m.

Bring low-back chairs and blankets to sit on. No pets or glass containers. This is a "Nevada's 150th Anniversary of Statehood" event.

Concerts at Commons Beach in Tahoe City

Concerts at Commons Beach are free family events in Tahoe City. These afternoon and early evening concerts feature local, regional, and national performers. Concerts are on Sundays through September 7 and begin at 4 p.m. (except June 22 and 29, August 31, September 7, which begin at 3 p.m.). Bring a picnic from home or get food, drink, and goodies from local vendors.

There is a playground for the kids at Commons Beach.            

June 22 - Afrolicious / Roemers June 29 - Peter Joseph Burtt & Kingtide / Jellybread July 6 - Turkuaz July 13 - Mingo Fishtrap July 20 - Lebo & Friends July 27 - Leche De Tigre August 3 - Mumbo Gumbo August 10 - New Monsoon August 17 - Dead Winter Carpenters August 24 - SambaDa August 31 - Joy & Madness / Groove Foundry September 7 - The Nibblers / NTHS Jazz Band

Music on the Beach at Kings Beach - North Lake Tahoe

Music on the Beach, sponsored by the North Tahoe Business Association, presents a series of free Lake Tahoe concerts at Kings Beach State Recreation Area just west of Incline Village on the California side. The music is on Friday evenings from June 27 through August 29, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Food and drink will be available at the venue. For more information, call (530) 546-9000.         

June 27 - Blues Monsters July 11 - Drop Theory July 18 - Miss Lonely Hearts July 25 - Zanzibar August 1 - The Wrinkle August 8 - Mojo Green August 15 - Keyser Soze August 22 - Horsemouth August 29 - Jacked Up

Live at Lakeview Summer Concert Series in South Lake Tahoe

Live at Lakeview is a free summer concert series in South Lake Tahoe. The venue is Lakeview Commons Beach at Highway 50 and Lakeview Avenue in the town of South Lake Tahoe, CA.

Performances are on Thursdays from June 26 through August 28, 2014, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Parking is limited. Concert goers are encouraged to walk in or ride bikes (free bike valet).

Food and drink will be available. For more information, call (530) 600-2233. No dogs.          

June 26 - Peter Joseph burtt & The Kingtide July 3 - Lavish Green July 10 - Tracorum July 17 - Randy McAllister July 24 - Paa Kow's By All Means Band July 31 - Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds August 7 - 40 Watt Hype August 14 - Mojo Green August 21 - Scott Pemberton Trio August 28 - Rocker T

North Lake Tahoe Truckee business announcements June 10, 2014

Content for briefs is selected from e-mail submissions to Community Editor Amy Edgett at aedgett@sierrasun.com.

NLTRA seeks marketing committee members The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association is accepting applications for two open seats on the association’s marketing committee.

Appointments will be made based on marketing experience, type of business the member is affiliated with and the portion of North Tahoe the member represents. One term goes through December 2014, the other through December 2015. Once terms expire, committee members can reapply for a new three-year term.

Applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume to Chief Marketing Officer Andy Chapman of the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association by June 20, via email at Andy@GoTahoeNorth.com or by mail at Attention: Marketing Committee Application, North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association, P.O. Box 5459, Tahoe City, CA 96145.

The marketing committee is one of six North Lake Tahoe Resort Association committees.

Other committees are dedicated to infrastructure, transportation, finance, and advising the Chamber of Commerce. Committee membership includes North Lake Tahoe Resort Association board members as well as community members.

“Knowledge Bites” to focus on marketing basics On June 18 the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce is launching the Knowledge Bites Series, covering doing business one bite at a time.

Knowledge Bites provides strategies for pivotal business skills broken into small, digestible pieces. Through case studies, expert assessments will provide valuable, real world strategies useful for anyone in attendance. The first Knowledge Bites will address marketing basics.

The case studies will be Donner Lake Marina & Watersports and Grateful Gardens. Expert assessments will be provided by Dave Sick of Brand Breadcrumbs, and Meg Urie Rab of SmallPond Studio, 8:30-10 a.m. at the Truckee Tahoe Airport, 10356 Truckee Airport Road.

Cost is $10 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members and includes light breakfast catered by Full Belly Deli. Registration is required at www.TruckeeChamber.com.

Knowledge Bites will be held every month, the 3rd Wednesday of the month, at the Truckee Airport, and will highlight a different topic, case studies, and experts each month. The Knowledge Bites series is presented by the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Plumas Bank. The June breakfast sponsor is the Truckee Tahoe Airport District.

For more information, contact the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce at 530-587-8808 or e-mail info@truckee.com.

TCPUD enhances capital project delivery The Tahoe City Public Utility District (TCPUD) has enhanced its utility and parks capital project management capabilities with the hiring of Sarah Hussong Johnson as the newest member of the District’s engineering deam.

Hussong Johnson has a Bachelor’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Michigan and is a registered professional civil engineer in the State of California. She has more than 13 years of experience in the development and implementation of civil engineering projects, specializing in the design, construction and management of municipal infrastructure improvements.

She comes to the District from the City of South Lake Tahoe where she led the City’s Engineering division as the city engineer and worked on a diverse portfolio of capital improvement and water quality projects, including the Bijou Area Erosion Control Project and the Harrison Avenue Streetscape Improvement Project, which are public-private partnerships.

“The TCPUD position appealed to me because the District has an interesting mix of capital projects, from recreation to utility infrastructure,” said Hussong Johnson. I had a great tenure with the City, and am looking forward to this new opportunity with TCPUD.”

Vail Daily travel feature: Loving Lake Tahoe 5/31/2014

I wandered up the sand dune that rose behind the rows of seating at the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. This amphitheater, which is constructed each summer specifically for the Festival, not only affords exceptional views of the lake, but a truly unique experience.

There’s something liberating about curling your toes in the sand while a talented troupe of performers present their interpretation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” set in the 1960s, complete with a mighty groovy Puck.

It was also an apropos beginning to a weekend in Lake Tahoe that completely changed my perception of this resort area.

Before I visited Lake Tahoe, I pictured a town much like Vail, but with a lake. Of course, I’d seen pictures of people skiing at Heavenly Ski Resort with the lake in the background, blue and expansive, but for some reason I had a hard time imagining the place outside of that photo.

When I finally arrived after the short drive from the Reno airport, I realized exactly how deluded I was. There is not just one town or village — there are actually two distinct areas of Lake Tahoe: the north and the south. There are restaurants and breweries, marinas and hotels dotting the lakeshore. People wander from shop to shop, maybe stopping for a frosty beverage at a lake side pub. Don’t be fooled by Tahoe’s laid-back vibe — the wide range of activities to try and things to see will keep you busy from dawn to well into the evening.

On the water It’s hard to describe just how big Lake Tahoe is unless you see it first-hand. With an area of 191.6 square miles and a length of 21.75 miles, it’s enormous. The best way to truly get a feeling for the expanse is by getting onto the water. Sailboats dot the water like giant white cranes and kayaks are a popular mode of transport and exercise. One of the fastest growing experiences at Lake Tahoe is stand-up paddleboarding. Waterman’s Landing at Carnelian Bay, owned by professional stand-up paddleboarder Jay Wild, rents stand-up paddleboards and provides lessons for novice SUPers.

The beauty of SUPing is that almost anyone can do it. From young children to octogenarians, SUPing is easy to pick up and almost impossible to do incorrectly. However, a few tips from Jay helped us refine our stroke technique and, before the sun was high in the sky, we were paddling across the mirror-like surface of the lake. I dipped my paddle into the water, concentrating on the hook-shaped stroke that Jay recommended and took just a moment to admire the view. From the water, the mountains rise sharply, jutting from the evergreens that hug the edge. It’s like nothing I’ve seen before.

I would spend several more hours on the lake on a paddleboard, including an attempt to help break the world record for most people practicing yoga on a stand up paddleboard during the Ta-Hoe Nalu festival. Of all the ways to experience the water, SUPing is one of the most popular.

By the shore Lake Tahoe is, by virtue of terrain and state lines, an area divided. North and South, California and Nevada (pronounced neh-VA-duh with the “a” as in cat), Lake Tahoe is an area of contrast. The northern side of the lake is dotted with beaches of varying sizes, resorts both modern and classic and a wide range of restaurants, including the West Shore Cafe, with not just waterfront, but above-water seating. Then there are the casinos, many which personify the opulence and style of its famous patrons such as Frank Sinatra.

The Crystal Bay Resort and Casino is one of the area’s most iconic destinations; you can almost see Old Blue Eyes cozied up in one of the plush velvet booths in the Crystal Bay Steakhouse. He certainly would have been a fan of the show that our waiter Luis performs with bananas foster en flambe. The Crystal Bay Club hosts musical performances from a wide variety of artists; I got my first taste of Austin-based Mingo Fishtrap there.

Though resorts like Crystal Bay maintain the decor and ambiance of its heyday, there are changes afoot. CalNeva Resort, which was owned by Frank Sinatra and is rumored to be home to the ghost of Marilyn Monroe, is undergoing a massive renovation, which is expected to bring it to a modern level of luxury.

Of course, Lake Tahoe is also a busy ski destination and, in the summertime, those resorts (there are seven ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area) are buzzing with special events and festivals. The Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest at the Village at Squaw Valley hosts craft breweries from around the country, many from California which are seldom seen in Colorado, along with live music at the base of the resort.

In the trees

From my precarious perch, the rope ladder that hangs in front of me looks less sturdy than I’d like. I’m tethered to the security cables by two carabineers, but the idea of jumping into space, clinging onto the ladder like a monkey, is a bit daunting.

With my friends shouting encouragement below me, I take a deep breath and jump. The ladder, despite its appearance, does its job and I clamber up to the next platform and contemplate my next move.

The Treetop Adventure and Ropes Course at Granlibakken Resort is a playground nestled in the trees, with eight different courses in two different areas. The Flying Squirrel course is perfect for younger guests while the Monkey course is geared toward older, if not wiser, adventurers. Each route is marked as easy to more difficult and the challenges range from the Fuzzy Bunny to a pulse-pounding bicycle ride about 50 feet above the ground. Open year-round, the Treetop Adventure course is an experience that you’ll may love or hate — but you’ll never forget.

Some say it’s the dual nature of the place, with its divide of north and south, dual-state citizenship and contrasting combination of water and mountains that makes Lake Tahoe so unique. Others think it’s the history of the area, with classic log cabins sharing the shore with flamboyant casinos. Other folks point to the wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to biking to paragliding on to water sports and tree climbing.

Me? I think it’s the exact combination of all these things that make Lake Tahoe an unforgettable destination.

Katie Coakley is a freelance writer and part-time Colorado resident who likes to travel, drink beer, sip whiskey and then writes about it. You can follow her adventures on her blog, katieonthemap.com or by buying her a pint on a sunny deck.

Travel: Loving Lake Tahoe, an unforgettable summer destination 5/31/2014 I wandered up the sand dune that rose behind the rows of seating at the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. This amphitheater, which is constructed each summer specifically for the Festival, not only affords exceptional views of the lake, but a truly unique experience.

There’s something liberating about curling your toes in the sand while a talented troupe of performers present their interpretation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” set in the 1960s, complete with a mighty groovy Puck.

It was also an apropos beginning to a weekend in Lake Tahoe that completely changed my perception of this resort area.

Before I visited Lake Tahoe, I pictured a town much like Vail, but with a lake. Of course, I’d seen pictures of people skiing at Heavenly Ski Resort with the lake in the background, blue and expansive, but for some reason I had a hard time imagining the place outside of that photo.

When I finally arrived after the short drive from the Reno airport, I realized exactly how deluded I was. There is not just one town or village — there are actually two distinct areas of Lake Tahoe: the north and the south. There are restaurants and breweries, marinas and hotels dotting the lakeshore. People wander from shop to shop, maybe stopping for a frosty beverage at a lake side pub. Don’t be fooled by Tahoe’s laid-back vibe — the wide range of activities to try and things to see will keep you busy from dawn to well into the evening.

Lake Tahoe is, by virtue of terrain and state lines, an area divided. North and South, California and Nevada (pronounced “Neh-VA-duh”) On the water It’s hard to describe just how big Lake Tahoe is unless you see it first-hand. With an area of 191.6 square miles and a length of 21.75 miles, it’s enormous. The best way to truly get a feeling for the expanse is by getting onto the water. Sailboats dot the water like giant white

cranes and kayaks are a popular mode of transport and exercise. One of the fastest growing experiences at Lake Tahoe is stand-up paddleboarding. Waterman’s Landing at Carnelian Bay, owned by professional paddleboarder Jay Wild, rents paddleboards and provides lessons for novice SUPers.

The beauty of paddleboarding is that almost anyone can do it. From young children to octogenarians, SUPing is easy to pick up and almost impossible to do incorrectly. However, a few tips from Jay helped us refine our stroke technique and, before the sun was high in the sky, we were paddling across the mirror-like surface of the lake. I dipped my paddle into the water, concentrating on the hook-shaped stroke that Jay recommended and took just a moment to admire the view. From the water, the mountains rise sharply, jutting from the evergreens that hug the edge. It’s like nothing I’ve seen before.

I would spend several more hours on the lake on a paddleboard, including an attempt to help break the world record for most people practicing yoga on a stand up paddleboard during the Ta-Hoe Nalu festival. Of all the ways to experience the water, SUPing is one of the most popular.

By the shore Lake Tahoe is, by virtue of terrain and state lines, an area divided. North and South, California and Nevada (pronounced “Neh-VA-duh,” with the “a” as in cat), Lake Tahoe is an area of contrast. The northern side of the lake is dotted with beaches of varying sizes, resorts both modern and classic and a wide range of restaurants, including the West Shore Cafe, with not just waterfront, but above-water seating. Then there are the casinos, many which personify the opulence and style of its famous patrons like Frank Sinatra.

The Crystal Bay Resort and Casino is one of the area’s most iconic destinations; you can almost see Old Blue Eyes cozied up in one of the plush velvet booths in the Crystal Bay Steakhouse. He certainly would have been a fan of the show that our waiter Luis performs with bananas foster en flambé. The Crystal Bay Club hosts musical performances from a wide variety of artists; I got my first taste of Austin-based Mingo Fishtrap there.

Though resorts like Crystal Bay maintain the décor and ambiance of its heyday, there are changes afoot. CalNeva Resort, which was owned by Frank Sinatra and is rumored to be home to the ghost of Marilyn Monroe, is undergoing a massive renovation, which is expected to bring it to a modern level of luxury.

Of course, Lake Tahoe is also a busy ski destination and, in the summertime, those resorts (there are seven ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area) are buzzing with special events and festivals. The Brews, Jazz and Funk Fest at the Village at Squaw Valley hosts craft breweries from around the country, many from California which are seldom seen in Colorado, along with live music at the base of the resort.

In the trees From my precarious perch, the rope ladder that hangs in front of me looks less sturdy than I’d like. I’m tethered to the security cables by two carabineers, but the idea of jumping into space, clinging onto the ladder like a monkey, is a bit daunting.

With my friends shouting encouragement below me, I take a deep breath and jump. The ladder, despite its appearance, does its job and I clamber up to the next platform and contemplate my next move.

The Treetop Adventure and Ropes Course at Granlibakken Resort is a playground nestled in the trees, with eight different courses in two different areas. The Flying Squirrel course is perfect for younger guests while the Monkey course is geared towards older, if not wiser, adventurers. Each route is marked as easy to more difficult and the challenges range from the Fuzzy Bunny to a pulse-pounding bicycle ride about 50 feet above the ground. Open year-round, the Treetop Adventure course is an experience that you’ll may love or hate — but you’ll never forget.

Some say it’s the dual nature of the place, with its divide of north and south, dual-state citizenship and contrasting combination of water and mountains that makes Lake Tahoe so unique. Others think it’s the history of the area, with classic log cabins sharing the shore with flamboyant casinos. Other folks point to the wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to biking to paragliding on to water sports and tree climbing.

Me? I think it’s the exact combination of all these things that make Lake Tahoe an unforgettable destination.

Katie Coakley is a freelance writer and part-time Colorado resident who likes to travel, drink beer, sip whiskey and then write about it. You can follow her adventures on her blog, katieonthemap.com or by buying her a pint on a sunny deck.

The Best Ski Town Bike Paths Tuesday, May 27, 2014, by Laurel Miller

Canyon Bikes

One of the nicest things about mountain towns? You can walk their breadth in a matter of minutes.

Small size notwithstanding, however, many locals and visitorsprefer to pedal. For a number of reasons- eco-consciousness, limited parking, safety- many ski towns have established bike paths.

Curbed Ski has rounded up some of the best for you- from Tahoe to Stowe- with regard to scenery, historical interest, convenience, construction, or location.

Adventure Talgache

Truckee River Bike Trail: Explore the North Shore, from Tahoe City to Squaw Valley (A Class 1 path is coming soon to downtown Truckee, with expansion plans to Donner Lake). This 6.8 mile trail has connectors to fishing, picnicking, and rafting sites, as well as access to the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Check it out.

Wenatchee Outdoors

Wenatchee River Road, Leavenworth, WA: Okay, it's not technically a bike path, as it's not paved, but it's right outside of town, near the crest of the gloriousCascades. It's an easy, meandering 8.5mile cruiser with some hills and plenty of swimming holes. Do note it's on private land although it's a public trail, so behave.

Photo Sunset Cycles

Wood River Trails, Ketchum: Sun Valley's swanky rep can overshadow laidback Ketchum's more rustic charms. A ride along the riverside multi-use "Bike Path" is one of the best ways to spend a summer or fall day. The Wood River Valley is aptly named: there are sections of path thick with vegetation; as you head out toward the towns of Hailey and Bellevue, you're pedaling on the prairie.

Another plus: the 20-mile Wood River Trail System is designed as a self-guided historical tour, with interpretive signs that detail the region's mining, sheep ranching, and ski history. Note: The main trail will be undergoing renovation and restoration through September, so check the website for weekly section closure updates.

Four Corners Hikes

Telluride Bike Path: It's literally impossible not to have great views in Telluride, and while Curbed Ski loves the dirt San Miguel River Trail, it's technically not bike-friendly past the west end, where it connects to the Valley Floor. This all-too-brief, 3-mile paved path alongside Highway 145 will help ease any box canyon-induced claustrophobia you may feel. It connects to the Galloping Goose Trail in Lawson Hill, and also provides access to the Valley Floor at the Shell station/San Miguel Country Store.

Purple Mountain Lodge

The Recreational Path, Crested Butte: Short and sweet at just over two miles, the "Rec Path" is the connector from the town proper up to Mt. Crested Butte. Although it runs alongside the road, the scenery is gorge in summer, especially during the wildflower bloom around mid-July. Pedal past meadows and pasture (mountain vistas in the background) and check out the interpretive plaques along the way for notes on the geology, history, and flora and fauna of the region.

Canyon Bikes

Rio Grande Trail, Aspen: Call us biased, but this is one of the most stunning- and ingenious- bike paths to be found anywhere in the U.S. Part of the former Denver-Rio Grande Railroad bed, the path begins at Herron Park in Aspen, and runs the length of the Roaring Fork Valley, to Glenwood Springs, 41 miles away. The Aspen-to-Carbondale leg is particularly alluring; you'll pass waterfalls cascading off of hematite rock face, and cross wooden railroad trestle bridges.

USDA Forest Service

Vail Pass Bike Path: This 8.7-mile path is a butt-burner- while paved, it gains 1,831 feet in elevation, topping out at 10,603 feet. If you're fit (or hitch a ride to the summit), it's worth the pain: the scenery through verdant East Vail, up the pass, and over the undulating summit to Copper Mountain is alpine-amazing. If you're a novice, opt for the relaxing Gore Creek Path in Vail Village; if you're feeling ambitious, it extends down valley all the way to Edwards.

Into the Outdoors Jackson to Jenny Lake, Jackson Hole: Dedicated bike paths have long been a pet project for the community; road cycling in Grand Teton National Park has been deadly due to distracted drivers, and the region now has many bike paths. This long-awaited paved, multi-use stretch was years in the making, and completed in 2012. It runs to the south end of the popular lake, providing classic Teton views that are, hands down, some of America's most staggeringly beautiful scenery.

Tahoe Businesses Report Busy Memorial Day Updated: Mon 10:58 PM, May 26, 2014

Lake Tahoe: Sierra Nevada paradise offers more than stunning scenery

By Ari Burack

The streams of summer visitors to California's great sapphire jewel in the Sierra Nevada might seem a little farther away when you're dangling 40 feet above the forest floor, your brain a heady mix of pine-scented adrenaline.

Or you're lazing in a kayak, adrift in the cool early morning air over the glassy water's surface, shards of mountain framing the distant shoreline. Or maybe you're perched on a volcanic outcropping a thousand feet above the lake with nothing but the wind in your ears.

Experiences like these draw countless visitors to the shores of North Lake Tahoe every year.

In Tahoe City on the west side of the lake, settle into one of cozy Sunnyside Lodge's top-floor rooms and you will be rewarded with broad lakeside views, rustic comfort and a glowing sunrise that comes hurtling across the waters each morning.

This restaurant and resort -- built on the site of a captain's 1908 summer home and retaining only its proud stone fireplace -- has been remodeling its 23 rooms, and some may still have an older feel. Boaters often dock at the marina outside to stop in for a meal or drinks. It's a relaxed, almost familial atmosphere.

A guided tour with Tahoe City Kayak is a fine morning option, as there will be less boat traffic on the lake. Paddle along the west shore over cool, clear waters, and you will see the bottom green- and white-hued stones -- and the occasional old pipeline or tragically mishandled cellphone. Glide underneath a pier that stretches hundreds of feet from the beach and out past floating buoys as your guide shares some of the geography, local color and history of the area.

In the afternoon, head into the forest, strap on climbing gear and pull yourself into the treetops at Tahoe Tree Top Adventure Park, located on the property of the historic Granlibakken Lodge in Tahoe City. There, you will learn to balance on wire or tiny wooden boards that twist and turn underneath, navigate rope nets, and zipline from tree to tree and down to the forest floor.

Since 2012, this outfit has offered a variety of simple or challenging courses for kids and adults to scramble up and down for nearly three hours at a time, or until your arms have wearied and the 6-year-old on the perch behind you is politely urging you to hurry up.

The modest-looking exterior of Wolfdale's in Tahoe City belies what could be one of the best meals in Lake Tahoe. Chef-owner Douglas Dale's international-California fusion dishes are both delicious and beautiful. The focus of the frequently changing menu is on fresh ingredients and simple preparations, whether it be an artfully plated risotto or tender lamb shank, an appetizer of trout that's been smoked on site, or a decadent pear tart dessert with caramel and salted ice cream.

If you have had similar dishes, you may not have had them cooked as well or in such a balanced way.

Crossing into Nevada, the northern and eastern sides of the lake become more exclusive, but also less developed, and there are equal opportunities for scenic vistas, good eats, hikes and history.

The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe in Incline Village is set in a serene, forested area just back from the beach. Upscale though inescapably corporate, the rooms are elegant, simple and pet-friendly at this 12-story hotel, spa and casino. There are also quaint lakeside cottages available for groups.

The rooms' few windows and only glancing sightlines of the water are a helpful reminder (if you needed one) to get outdoors to the lake and surrounding mountains -- the real stars of the show.

A hike through the Tahoe Rim Trail -- a 165-mile circuit along the ridges surrounding Lake Tahoe -- will take you into pine forests, alpine meadows and mountain paths at elevations between 7,000 and 10,000 feet, offering grand, panoramic views of the lake and beyond.

The trails are treasured by locals who are dedicated to keeping them pristine.

The restaurant Bite in Incline Village offers a refined and reasonably priced dinner of California-style tapas -- fried spheres of risotto, ahi sliders, fresh fish tacos, grilled nuggets of filet mignon. These tasty bites of re-imagined comfort food are accompanied by a selection of wines and artisanal cocktails.

A visit to North Lake Tahoe probably would not be complete without a tour of Thunderbird Lodge, the setting for one of the more eccentric characters in the lake's history.

George Whittell built the lodge in 1936. He was an adventurer who inherited his San Francisco family's fortune despite ignoring their wishes for his career and marriage, instead joining the circus and driving an ambulance overseas during World War I. The lodge today remains one of the only structures on the otherwise undeveloped northeast side of Lake Tahoe. It's unlikely another one will ever be built like it.

Whittell envisioned the home as his refuge and plaything, decorating it with waterfalls, secret doors and an underground tunnel, importing wild animals including a lion and elephant, hosting high-stakes poker games with celebrities, cruising the lake in his magnificent yacht and entertaining not only his wife but mistresses as well. The property is now maintained by a private foundation offering docent-led tours.

Travel should entertain, but it can also educate. The UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center on the campus of Sierra Nevada College in Incline Village has guided tours with hands-on exhibits and 3-D movies on Lake Tahoe's environment, including geologic history, water clarity and fish populations. Not only will you learn about the forces -- natural and man-made -- that shaped and continue to shape the lake and its ecological health, but how to help keep it a natural wonder for generations to come.

Where to stay - Sunnyside Restaurant and Lodge: 1850 W. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City. Rooms $295$360. www.sunnysidetahoe.com - Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe: 111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village. Rooms $199 to $529; cottages $399 to $1499. www.laketahoe.hyatt.com Where to eat - Bridgetender Tavern and Grill: Set along the banks of the Truckee River, the burgers are considered some of the best in Tahoe City. 65 W. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City. www.tahoebridgetender.com - Wolfdale's: 640 N. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City. www.wolfdales.com - T's Mesquite Rotisserie: A delicious, no-frills barbecue and Mexican joint where succulent, slowly rotating birds and slabs of beef are carved into sandwiches and burritos. 901 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village.

- Mellow Fellow: The knowledgeable staff is slinging a delicious and varied selection of 40 craft brews on tap to sate nearly any taste. 9980 N. Lake Blvd., Kings Beach. www.mellowfellowpub.com - Bite: 907 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village. www.bitetahoe.com What to do - Tahoe City Kayak: Commons Beach, Tahoe City. Tours $40-$95. Ages 10 and up.www.tahoecitykayak.com - Tahoe Tree Top Adventure Park: 725 Granlibakken Road, Tahoe City. $45.www.tahoetreetop.com - Tahoe Rim Trail: Visit www.tahoerimtrail.org for maps and trail listings.

- UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center: Sierra Nevada College, 291 Country Club Drive, Incline Village. Tours free. tahoe.ucdavis.edu - Thunderbird Lodge: 5000 Nevada Highway 28, Incline Village. Tours $39.thunderbirdlodge.org

22MAY Five Scenic Bike Trails Near Global Discovery Vacations Destinations posted by Corey Thibodeaux

Since May is National Bike Month, we wanted to give you the best reasons to go for a ride. Some of us crave adventure while others prefer to take their time sightseeing. You can find that and everything in between with Global Discovery Vacations!

Grab your bicycle for your next vacation and try out one of our five favorite destinations for bike riding: The Flume Trail Glenbrook, Nevada (near Lake Tahoe) Taking a lovely stroll around Lake Tahoe sounds like a peaceful vacation, but it’ll take some bravery if you want the best views. This challenging, yet stunning, ride runs 14 miles one way at 7,000-8,000 ft. in elevation. At its worst, the Flume Trail can be steep and rocky, which will challenge inexperienced riders.

At its best, it’s one of the most scenic mountain biking rides in America.

If you need motivation to get excited for National Bike Month, look no further than these awesome trails.

Some Global Discovery Vacations resorts have complimentary bike rentals, but if not, you can find the closest bike rental store near you with our Points of Interest feature!

Do you prefer mountain biking or are you a more casual biker? Let us know in the comments!

50 Things to Do in Tahoe This Summer

By Christina Nellemann on May 22, 2014 6:00 PM

There's probably nothing better than the mountains in summer. The days are hot and sunny and the nights are cool with that perfect temperature for sleeping in a tent. Lake Tahoe really comes alive in the summer months with various outdoor sports and special events. Even though this list could go onad infinitum, we narrowed it down to the top 50.

1. Kayak to Fannette Island, hike up to the tea house and jump off the rocks into Emerald Bay 2. Hit a few golf balls into the water at Edgewood and then go snorkeling to find them again 3. Get an all-over tan on the nude beach at Secret Cove.

4. Hike to the top of Mount Tallac for views of Fallen Leaf Lake, Cascade Lake, Desolation Wilderness, and South Lake Tahoe.

5. Bring a picnic for the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival's production of As You Like It at Sand Harbor.

6. Grab a beer and chat with the locals at the Genoa Bar (Nevada's Oldest Thirst Parlor) in Genoa.

7. Hike from Emerald Bay to Lester Beach on the Rubicon Trail.

8. Paddleboard from King's Beach to Crystal Bay on the North Shore.

9. Find your balance at the Wanderlust yoga festival at Squaw Valley.

10. Go kayak or boat camping at the Emerald Bay Boat-In Campground.

11. Go Euro and get a crepe at Coffeebar in Truckee or a gelato at Where We Met cafĂŠ in Tahoma.

12. Fly along the water on a jet ski from Tahoe Sports.

13. Hike to the top of Mount Rose and a get a view of Reno/Sparks, Carson City, Washoe Valley, and all of Lake Tahoe.

14. Hike or mountain bike portions of or the entire 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail.

15. Knock back a few Tahoe cocktails: the Wet Woody at Gar Woods, the Summertime Sangria at the Ritz-Carlton at Northstar, or the Crystal Bay Cooler at the Lone Eagle Grille at the Hyatt.

16. Tube the Truckee river through downtown Reno.

17. Jump off the rocks into the cold, blue water in the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.

18. Admire some beautiful boats at the Concours d'Elegance.

19. Get the beer sampler and a Bad Ass Pizza at the Brewery in South Lake Tahoe. Eat on the outside deck.

20. Take the ferry and then hike the Echo Lakes Trail into Desolation Wilderness.

21. Hang glide off the top of Slide Mountain with Thermal Sky Sports.

22. After all the hiking and biking, get deep tissue or foot massage at Mountain Lotus Yoga.

23. Go shopping in downtown Truckee.

24. Jump off the Donner Lake public docks at sunset.

25. Kayak from Sand Harbor to the Thunderbird Lodge.

26. On a hot day, enjoy the spray from Eagle Falls, Glen Alpine Falls, and Horsetail Falls.

27. Go green and stay at the Basecamp Hotel in South Lake Tahoe.

28. Hike along a portion of the 2,650 mile Pacific Crest Trail.

29. Drink wine and play bocce at the Truckee River Winery.

30. Parasail over the North Shore.

31. Go backpack camping in Desolation Wilderness.

32. Have an evening picnic at Nevada Beach.

33. Head down to Reno for Artown.

34. Stay at the Camp Richardson Cabins before heading to Baldwin and Kiva beach.

35. Go camping at D.L. Bliss State Park.

36. Take a sunset sail on the Tahoe Cruz or the Woodwind II. 37. Bike from Sugar Pine Point to Tahoe City on the bike path.

38. Pretend you're a viking warrior while touring the Vikingsholm Castle in Emerald Bay. 39. Get together 12 of your best friends and stay at the Tahoe Castle.

40. Enjoy the sound of the river while drinking a beer at the Bridgetender in Tahoe City.

41. Go river rafting on the Truckee in Tahoe City.

42. While in Reno, bike along the Tahoe Pyramid Bikeway.

43. Get interactive with your kids at the Nevada Discovery Museum in downtown Reno or the KidZone Museum in Truckee.

44. Explore the North Shore in a kayak.

45. Have a waterfront view while you dine at the Riva Grill or Christy Hill.

46. Get high above the lake in a hot air balloon.

47. Sleep close to nature in the rustic Clair Tappaan Lodge on Donner Summit.

48. Hike to the top of the paved Stateline Fire Lookout trail with the kids.

49. Chow down on an ice cream cone from the Camp Richardson Resort ice cream parlor.

50. Get some great gifts at Gaia-Licious Gifts or Jai Yen Treasures.

5/20/2014

5/19/2014

Homewood Resort and the West Shore Cafe The West Shore Cafe will offer three new personal watercraft rentals from SWA Watersports this summer, bolstering its fleet that includes a wooden boat, a fishing boat and a ski boat. The cafe also expanded its bar on the outdoor deck in order to provide a better experience for guests. The interior bar was stretched into an L shape, giving patrons a panoramic view of Lake Tahoe as they indulge in craft cocktails and apps. For more information, visit www.westshorecafe.com.

Homewood has hosted the Lakefront Outdoor Yoga Series in past summers, but this summer, the resort will offer the yoga series on the pier of the West Shore Cafe every Wednesday and Saturday morning.

The series runs from June to August. In addition, Homewood will host three Farm to Peak dinners on the mountain overlooking Lake Tahoe. Guests will ride a chairlift to the top of the mountain, where they will be treated to a five-course seasonal farm-to-table dinner complete with wine or beer pairings, with guest chefs incorporating the freshest locally sourced ingredients. The Farm to Peak dinners will take place July 5, Aug. 9 and Aug. 30 and are limited to 120 guests. For more information, visit www.skihomewood.com.

Media Contact: Connie Anderson The Abbi Agency www.theabbiagency.com connie@theabbiagency.com 775-323-2977

Public Contact: Brittni Kern Homewood Mountain Resort www.jmaventuresllc.com bkern@skihomewood.com 530-525-2992

Escapes: Historic fun for Memorial Day Published: Sunday, May. 18, 2014 - 12:00 am

JAMESTOWN Historic train rides Spend Memorial Day weekend riding a train through California’s scenic Gold Country.

Railtown 1897 Historic State Park will offer its popular excursions all three days, with a local musician singing and playing banjo onboard. And on May 26 visitors can ride behind a vintage diesel locomotive.

Trips depart every hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The 6-mile journey lasts approximately 45 minutes. Tickets are $15 general, $8 for ages 6 to 17 and free for younger children. 18115 Fifth Ave., Jamestown. For more information, call (209) 984-3953 or visitwww.railtown1897.org.

CARSON CITY Ghost walk What: Explore Carson City’s spooky history with the year’s first Ghost Walking Tour.

Madame Curry will guide visitors through the city’s Victorian Era and tell paranormal tales.

When: 6:30-8 p.m. Saturday Where: Behind Firkin & Fox Pub, 310 S. Carson St., Carson City, Nev. Cost: $15-$20 Information: www.carsoncityghostwalk.com LIVERMORE Boat tour

What: Saturday marks the opening of the seasonal tours of Lake Del Valle. Glide across the water while a guide shares tidbits about the creatures below as well as the surrounding land. Life jackets will be provided.

When: 1 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays through Labor Day Where: Del Valle Regional Park, 7000 Del Valle Road, Livermore Cost: $3-$5 Information: www.ebparks.org SAN FRANCISCO Carnaval What: The 36th annual, two-day, family-friendly festival transforms the Mission District into a Carnaval celebration with soccer, music, dance and cuisine fromLatin America and the Caribbean. Don’t miss the dazzling, colorful Grand Parade next Sunday.

When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-next Sunday Where: Harrison Street between 16th and 24th streets, San Francisco Cost: Free Information: www.carnavalsanfrancisco.org LAKE TAHOE Craft festival What: At the Made in Tahoe Festival, visitors can shop for artisanal products, sample delicious food, listen to live music and view performance art.

When:11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and next Sunday Where: Squaw Valley, 1960 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley Cost: Free

Information: www.squaw.com POINT REYES Memorial Day commemorative What: Honor the country’s fallen during an outdoorsy weekend at Point Reyes National Seashore. After a ceremony at the historic cemetery, there’s an open house at the lifeboat station.

When: 2-5 p.m. May 26 Where: Historic Life-Saving Service Cemetery, 16484 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Inverness Cost: Free Information: www.nps.gov — Bee staff Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2014/05/18/6408282/escapes-historic-fun-formemorial.html#storylink=cpy

Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Sacramento May 17, 2014 5:00 AM

Get your gear into the car. Fill the tank. Head out of town. Where to? So many great places are within reach of the greater Sacramento area that you’ll have a great time no matter where you go. Take the time to explore and build memories over Memorial Day weekend.

Marin Lodge 1735 Lincoln Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 578-2827 www.marinlodge.com There are two reasons to stay at Marin Lodge. First, it’s affordable, which can be elusive in the Bay Area.

Second, it’s a great place to call base as you explore the Marin Headlands. Known as the crown jewel of the Golden Gate National Parks, the Marin Headlands are beyond stunning. Not that long ago, most of this area was owned by the United States Army. What a fitting way to spend Memorial Day, peacefully hiking and exploring many fantastic spots over the weekend. Book your stay early, and consider an extra day or two. You just might need it.

The River Street Inn 10009 E. River St. Truckee, CA 96161 (530) 550-9290 www.riverstreetinntruckee.com The historic railroad town of Truckee is located just off I80. The fine River Street Inn is a welcoming Bed and Breakfast that is on the Truckee River. Surround yourself with gracious comfort. Head outside to wander about this amazing little town, full of unique shops and good places to eat. Hike some of the nearby trails, make a short trip to Donner Lake or just wander aimlessly. For a hint of bright lights and big city, Reno is just over the mountain. Kick back, take it easy and enjoy the high mountain ambiance. When the sun goes down, enjoy a wide open star canopy before calling it day.

Strawberry Lodge 17510 U.S. Highway 50 Kyburz, CA 95720 (800) 373-1096 www.strawberrylodge.com This historic mountain lodge rests right on the American River, just a short bit away from its origin. Family friendly is a good description of the lodge. The large dining room , all by itself, is a destination. For

anyone who is a rock climber, this is where you want to spend this weekend. Look to the east from the back lawn and you’ll be staring at Lover’s Leap, an internationally known chunk of granite that is a famous climbing spot. Just up the road is the hike to Horsetail Falls, and just to the west are great Forest Service roads to mountain bike. Over Echo Summit is South Lake Tahoe. You could be very busy here, or you could relax inside or outside and just watch the world continue to spin. You’ll enjoy the ambiance and the cool mountain air.

Related: Best Weekend Getaways In The Sacramento Area

Camp Richardson 1900 Jameson Beach Road South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (530) 541-1801 www.camprichardson.com Camp Richardson offers cabins just a few dozen yards from Lake Tahoe or rooms in the hotel. Either way, you’ve got a perfect place to plop down for the weekend. One option is to simply enjoy the lake. On a more active note, there is a wonderful paved bike path that runs past the hotel. Kayaks and paddle boards can be rented at the marina, and for your little ones, there is a great nature walk at the Visitors Center. Not far away are short hikes to spectacular places. A quick drive will take you to the Heavenly Gondolas that will take you up Heavenly Mountain to hike, relax, enjoy lunch or just be mesmerized by the view from up top. You are in the perfect place to enjoy all that South Lake Tahoe has to offer.

Squaw Valley Lodge 201 Squaw Peak Road Olympic Valley, CA 96146 (530) 583-5500 www.squawvalleylodge.com Located in Olympic Valley, the Squaw Valley Lodge is a gorgeous and comfortable place to stay while enjoying the stunning splendor of the area. Hiking around here offers several opportunities; Shirley Canyon, Five Lake and Twin Peaks are well within range. Take the tram up to High Camp and hike to Emigrant Peak. From here you get a 360-degree view, with Lake Tahoe and all of the surrounding mountains included. Get your bicycle out and ride down to Tahoe City on the paved trail that parallels the Truckee River. Tahoe City is a fantastic town to explore. Dine at one of the eateries at The Village in Squaw Valley, or head to one of the numerous other spots dotting the lake. Accommodations here come with access to the pool, spa, workout facilities and sauna.

Related: Best Places For Stargazing In Sacramento

Sweet Spots for Chef Sightings May 16, 2014 Written by Susan D. Rock

Best bets for rubbing elbows with local culinary luminaries It’s a bit of a celebrity sighting, catching a glimpse of the man or woman wielding the cleaver behind the culinary curtain of a well-known restaurant kitchen. One way to see several local chefs in action, all in one tasty go, is to hit some of Tahoe’s annual fun and festive food and wine events.

Truckee Best of Tahoe Chefs Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, Truckee Sponsored by the Tahoe Forest Hospital, with all proceeds benefitting Truckee’s Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, this May dinner-dance gala is the Oscars of the North Shore culinary world, starring the A-list of the area’s restaurant staffs. After a night of slicing and sautéing a multi-course meal for a glammed-up crowd, these top chefs then put themselves up on the live auction block for, say, a fully catered private dinner party atop a Squaw Valley peak. www.bestoftahoechefs.org, May 18 Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival Village at Northstar California, Truckee This long-running, three-day gathering includes cooking classes, wine seminars, hiking, cycling and art outings paired with wine and beer tastings. The Blazing Pans Cook-off is always a crowd-pleaser, and other showcase gatherings include events like the Long Table Harvest Dinner at the Ritz-Carlton. Put on by the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, the September event culminates with the formally judged Grand Tasting in which some area chefs create a signature dish to pair with a wine, spirit or brew of their choice. www.northstarcalifornia.com, September 5–7

North Lake Tahoe Tahoe City Wine Walk Downtown Tahoe City A fundraiser for the Tahoe City Downtown Association, this summer event along Tahoe Boulevard guides strollers to samplings from Tahoe City restaurants and catering companies teamed with a list of familiar West Coast wineries. Local merchants throw open their doors with all sorts of specials, and there’s live music at Heritage Square, Boatworks Mall and Tahoe Arts Center. www.tahoecitywinewalk.com, June 21 Wine on the Water Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino, Incline Village More than a dozen local restaurants, including the Hyatt’s Lone Eagle Grille, and more than 25 notable Northern California wineries are in the lineup for this Sunday afternoon event at the resort’s lovely lakeside Cottage Green. Enjoy live music and a silent auction along with the food and wine tasting at this affair now in its fifth year.

All proceeds benefit the Boys and Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe. www.laketahoe.hyatt.com, August 17 South Lake Tahoe Sample the Sierra Various locations, South Lake Tahoe This Labor Day weekend festival put on by the Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce and El Dorado County features events like SUP and Sip from South Tahoe Standup Paddle and Picchetti Winery, a farm-to-fork winemaker dinner, an Iron Chef–style cook-off and a marketplace selling locally made products as well as arts and crafts. On Sunday, Ski Run Boulevard is turned into a tasting area, complete with live entertainment, where participating restaurants are teamed up with a winery, brewery or distillery. www.samplethesierra.com, August 29–31

Ski Country's Best Restaurants With a View Thursday, May 15, 2014, by Laurel Miller

Watch Bob Burnquist Skate on a Floating HalfPipe in the Middle of Lake Tahoe

By Sarah Medina on May 13, 2014 3:00 PM

Lake Tahoe may be known for its crystal clear waters, boating voyages, and excellent hiking, but it's the gorgeous floating half-pipe in the middle of big blue that really made our jaws drop.

Created by Visit California and pro skater Bob Burnquist, the floating half-pipe (which began as a far-fetched dream) was beautifully crafted into reality from birch, oak, pine, and spruce. It took only four days to build the 7,300-pound engineering marvel, which is just as well, since Brazilianborn Bob loved the ramp so much he wants one just like it built at his waterfront home in his home country.

The skate ramp is part of Visit California's campaign to spotlight the Golden State’s abundance of inspired citizens who make the seemingly impossible happen. Also on their Youtube channel is a man pedaling a 15-foot- tall bicycle over the Golden Gate Bridge and a jet pack ride above an arid lake bed. Still, we have to admit, the majestic half-pipe really floats our boats.

See the marvel in action in the video below, and don't worry, a wet-suited snorkeler was at the ready to dive for Bob’s skateboard every time it went over the edge and into the big blue.

Dining with a view in North Lake Tahoe April 29, 2014 By Getaway Reno Tahoe Leave a Comment

West Shore Cafe In my book, nothing beats going out for a great meal. What can I say? I’m a foodie, a wino and I live in Tahoe (in other words, I know how to have a good time). When I dine out I’m looking for good service and quality food, but a spectacular view definitely doesn’t hurt. Lucky for me, living in North Lake Tahoe offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy a great meal with an even better view. Here are three different restaurants that deliver a feast for your belly and your eyes when you’re looking for dining with a view in North Lake Tahoe.

The West Shore Café is beautiful lakefront dining at its finest. Located inside the West Shore Inn, this cabin-style lodge has that classic Tahoe feel you’re looking for while on vacation. I like going for lunch and taking in the beautiful blue skies on their outside deck. Go a little later to catch the sun dip behind the horizon from their floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining room. Their lunch and dinner menus have a wide array of options to satisfy any palette. Pair your dinner with their approachable wine and cocktail list – my favorite part! Dinner reservations are highly recommended. 530-525-5200, westshorecafe.com

Gar Woods Restaurant Gar Woods is a classic American-style grill, best known for their lakefront deck and their world famous “Wet Woody” cocktail. Located in beautiful Carnelian Bay, I like Gar Woods for its fun atmosphere and the outside seating right on Lake Tahoe. Boasting a great pier and a comfortable mix of casual and fine dining, Gar Woods is the place to enjoy a night out on the North Shore. Make dinner reservations or just pull your boat up to the dock and throw back a Wet Woody during your day out on the lake. In addition to the classic “Wet Woody,” Gar Woods offers 16 other variations with different floats ranging from tequila to Bacardi 151, but be warned, drink a couple of these things and you’ll be feeling more than alright! 530546-3366, garwoods.com

Hacienda Del Lago Last but not least, Hacienda Del Lago is a favorite local hangout loved for its great location, affordable prices and casual atmosphere. Hacienda is upstairs in the Boatworks Shopping Mall right in the heart of Tahoe City. This place is somewhat of a hidden gem, with sweeping views of Lake Tahoe’s clear blue water and fabulous mountain vistas. Enjoy their Mexican food and spirits in the large dining room with panoramic windows. They also have a happy hour not to be missed, including $1 nachos, $1 Miller Lite’s, $3 tacos and more! With tasty food, great prices and friendly service, this is a great stop on your trip to Tahoe. I come here to experience awesome Tahoe views, without having to pay extra for it. When you stop by, say hi to Eli the owner; he’s a pretty cool guy! 530-581-3700, hacdellago.com More Dining With A View – find a perfect view wherever you are around Lake Tahoe:

South Lake Tahoe Chart House 392 Kingsbury Grade Rd., Stateline, Nev. 775-588-6276, chart-house.com The Beacon at Camp Richardson Resort 1900 Jameson Beach Rd., South Lake Tahoe, Calif.

530-541-0630, camprichardson.com Edgewood Restaurant 100 Lake Parkway, Stateline, Nev. 775-588-2787, edgewoodtahoe.com The Boathouse 3411 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, Calif.

530-600-1846, tahoebeachretreat.com North Lake Tahoe Wolfdale’s Cuisine Unique 640 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, Calif.

530-583-5700, wolfdales.com Lone Eagle Grille 111 Country Club Dr., Incline Village, Nev. 775-886-6899, loneeaglegrille.com Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge 1850 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, Calif.

530-583-7200, sunnysideresort.com By: Valerie Skinner

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Easter Egg Hunts, Church Services This Weekend Posted: Mar 26, 2014 11:41 AM PDTUpdated: Apr 26, 2014 11:08 AM PDT

Lots of area events are scheduled for this Easter holiday. Here is a list that will be updated frequently.

EASTER EGG HUNTS: Squaw Valley's annual on-mountain Easter egg hunt begins the moment the lifts open Easter Sunday. Remember to bring your Easter basket and hunt for the candy filled colored eggs hidden across the mountain from Gold Coast to High Camp, along Shirley Lake and all the way down Mountain Run. Join the kids for an Easter egg hunt on the morning of April 20th in America's only snowbound Village, located at Sugar Bowl Resort. Then head out on the mountain to find the Golden Egg, which contains a free 2014/15 Midweek season pass.

Alpine Meadows will host an Easter egg hunt this Sunday beginning at 9 a.m.

Eggs stuffed with delicious treats will be hidden off Roundhouse chair for kids and families to scoop up on their way down the mountain. In addition, a large, golden egg will be hidden amongst the candy-filled eggs; the skier or rider who finds the golden egg will receive a free 2014-15 bronze season pass.

EASTER-RELATED EVENTS: The Sparks Rotary Club will host its second annual Rabbit Run on Sunday, April 20th at the Sparks Marina. The 10k and 5K runs will follow the same routes as Sparks' Turkey Trot held on Thanksgiving. Runners and walkers can register online by going to www.sparksrotary.org. The 10k race starts at 7:30am. Proceeds will benefit Sparks Rotary programs.

EASTER SERVICES: Sparks Nazarene Church will hold English speaking worship services and Bible studies on Sunday, April 20th at 9:15am and 10:50am. A Spanish speaking

service is scheduled for 10:30am. The church is located at 2200 El Rancho Drive in Sparks. For more information, call 358-4066.

Grace Church will hold four identical services at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 6pm on Sunday, April 20. If you have kids, the Family Center (south building) will have full age appropriate group time for kids. The church is located at 1220 Robb Drive. For more information call 775-747-9000.

Mountaintop Services at Squaw Valley A free, non-denominational Easter service will be held at High Camp from 8-8:45 a.m. Visitors who do not plan to ski or ride can take the aerial tram to High Camp for free to attend the service. The tram will begin uploading guests at 7:30 a.m.

No ski or snowboard equipment is permitted on the early tram services. In addition, the regularly scheduled, afternoon service will also take place Easter Sunday at the top of Big Blue Express. The service will begin at 1 p.m. and is open to skiers and riders with a lift ticket or season pass.

Mountaintop Service at Alpine Meadows Skiers and riders at Alpine Meadows can also attend a non-denominational mountaintop service at the top of Roundhouse Chair at 1 p.m. A lift ticket or season pass is required. Â

Two IRONMAN events race same day in Lake Tahoe IRONMAN 70.3 pits racers against largest alpine lake in the U.S. on highest elevation course Published on Apr 22, 2014 - 11:42:30 AM Printer friendly page

By: GoTahoeNorth.com North Lake Tahoe, Calif./Nev. (April 18, 2014) — For the first time nationally, IRONMAN® and IRONMAN® 70.3® race on the same day in North Lake Tahoe. Today IRONMAN announces that IRONMAN Lake Tahoe will pilot this dual program in North America. This format is well received by athletes in Asia-Pacific.

The IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe is the 25th race in the U.S. Series. IRONMAN Lake Tahoe returns for the second time after selling out registration last year. The two races are scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2014.

"We are pleased to expand our relationship with IRONMAN with the introduction of IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe," said Andy Chapman, chief marketing officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association. "The opportunity to showcase our region as a world-class endurance venue to athletes from around the globe fits perfectly with our human powered sports initiative."

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1mile run on the same terrain as IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. The race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in the pristine waters of North Lake Tahoe at King's Beach. Athletes will enjoy a lakeside transition before starting a one-loop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee. From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley, home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

"As IRONMAN expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities," said Steve Meckfessel, managing director of Global Race Operations for IRONMAN. "Lake Tahoe is a perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region has to offer."

This news is in addition to the announcement that North Lake Tahoe will host the 20152016 USA Cycling Amateur & Para-cycling Road National Championships. The national championships draw more than 1,000 participants, and thousands of spectators, family members and friends. USA Cycling is the national governing body for cycling in the U.S. and represents more than 2,500 clubs and teams and 70,800 members. The organization hosts a series of road, track, cyclo-cross, mountain bike and BMX national championships across the nation.

Each of these races represents the region's growing popularity as a location for national and international endurance events.

General registration for IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe is now open at www.ironman.com/laketahoe70.3 . For more information on the IRONMAN brand and global event series, visit www.ironman.com. For more information on North Lake Tahoe visit www.gotahoenorth.com. Athlete inquiries may be directed to laketahoe@ironman.com.

Media may contact press@ironman.com.

About North Lake Tahoe For more information about North Lake Tahoe, visit www.gotahoenorth.com. And for the best bargains, including lodging, check out the "Cool Deals" tab, which is updated daily.

North Lake Tahoe is a 45-minute drive from the Reno Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport and just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport. Visitor information centers are located at 100 North Lake Boulevard in Tahoe City and 969 Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village.

About IRONMAN The iconic IRONMAN® Series of events is the largest participation sports platform in the world. Since the inception of the IRONMAN® brand in 1978, athletes have proven that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE® by crossing finish lines at the world's most challenging endurance races. Recognized for excellence through distinguished events, world-class athletes and quality products, IRONMAN has grown from a single race to a global sensation with more than 190 events across five unique brands: IRONMAN®, IRONMAN 70.3®, 5150™ Triathlon Series, Iron Girl® and IRONKIDS®. For more information, visit www.ironman.com.

IRONMAN ANNOUNCES NEW EVENT IN LAKE TAHOE APRIL 22, 2014

Originally from Ironman.com North Lake Tahoe has been selected to host the 25th race in the IRONMAN 70.3 U.S. Series: the inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe, to take place on Sunday, September 21, 2014, coinciding with IRONMAN Lake Tahoe.

Racing IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 races on the same day in the same venue has been well received by athletes in Asia-Pacific. For 2014, IRONMAN will pilot this program in North America at IRONMAN Lake Tahoe by adding IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe.

"As IRONMAN expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities," said Steve Meckfessel, Managing Director of Global Race Operations for IRONMAN. "Lake Tahoe is the perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region has to offer."

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. The race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in the pristine waters of North Lake Tahoe at King’s Beach. Athletes will enjoy a lakeside transition before starting a one-loop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee. From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley, home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

"We are pleased to expand our relationship with IRONMAN with the inclusion of IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe," said Andy Chapman, Chief Marketing Officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association. "The opportunity to showcase our region as a world-class endurance venue to athletes from around the globe fits perfectly with our human powered sports initiative. Last year’s inaugural IRONMAN Lake Tahoe was an epic experience and we look forward to welcoming both IRONMAN Lake Tahoe and

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe athletes this fall." Mr. Chapman highly recommends athletes book accommodations soon after registering for the event due to many properties filling up quickly.

At the same time IRONMAN is also announcing a revised bike course for IRONMAN Lake Tahoe.

"Athletes want to train on the entire bike course. By replacing the section of the course which went through a private development, with an exciting new section in Northstar, athletes now have the option to preview the entire bike course prior to race day," said Keats McGonigal, Operations Manager for IRONMAN. Updated course maps can be found at Ironman.com/laketahoe IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe will offer 30 age group slots to the 2015 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship taking place on August 30, 2015 in Zell am See-Kaprun, SalzburgerLand, Austria. General registration for IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe opens on Monday, April 28 at noon EST and will be available at Ironman.com/laketahoe70.3.

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Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe runs with full distance Ironman Lake Tahoe Posted by By Gary Roethenbaugh at 22 April, at 12 : 03 PMPrint

World Triathlon Corp (WTC) has confirmed that North Lake Tahoe in California has been selected to host the 25th race in the Ironman 70.3 US series. The inaugural Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe triathlon will take place on Sunday 21 September 2014; and the new 70.3 event will run concurrently with the full distance Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon.

According to WTC, having Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races on the same day in the same venue has been well received by athletes in Asia-Pacific. For 2014, Ironman will pilot this program in North America at Ironman Lake Tahoe by adding Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe.

“Lake Tahoe is a beautiful and very challenging venue,” said Andrew Messick, Chief Executive Officer for Ironman. “Our Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon introduced last year has quickly become one of the most difficult races in our series. We are thrilled to provide this dual race with the addition of Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe – as it creates a new and unique athlete experience here in North America.”

“As Ironman expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities,” said Steve Meckfessel, Managing Director of Global Race Operations for Ironman. “Lake Tahoe is the perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region have to offer.”

Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as Ironman Lake Tahoe. The Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in the pristine waters of North Lake Tahoe at King’s Beach. Athletes will enjoy a lakeside transition before starting a one-loop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee.

From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley, home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with Ironman with the inclusion of Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe,” said Andy Chapman, Chief Marketing Officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association. “The opportunity to showcase our region as a world-class

endurance venue to athletes from around the globe fits perfectly with our human-powered sports initiative.”

He continued, “Last year’s inaugural Ironman Lake Tahoe was an epic experience and we look forward to welcoming both Ironman Lake Tahoe and Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe athletes this fall.”

Chapman highly recommends athletes book accommodation soon after registering for the event due to many properties filling up quickly.

Ironman is also announcing a revised bike course for Ironman Lake Tahoe.

“Athletes want to train on the entire bike course. By replacing the section of the course which went through a private development with an exciting new section in Northstar, athletes now have the option to preview the entire bike course prior to race day,” said Keats McGonigal, Operations Manager for Ironman.

Updated course maps for Ironman Lake Tahoe can be found at www.ironman.com/laketahoe.

Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe will offer 30 age group slots to the 2015 Ironman 70.3 World Championship taking place on 30 August 2015 in Zell am See-Kaprun, SalzburgerLand, Austria.

General registration for Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe will open Monday 28 April 2014 at 12:00 pm ET atwww.ironman.com/laketahoe70.3. www.ironman.com

April 22, 2014

Ironman Lake Tahoe expands lineup Expand PhotoFile photo / Adam Jensen | Athletes plunge into the lake at the start of the inaugural Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon last fall. This year's event will feature an Ironman 70.3, also known as a Half Ironman, on the same day as the full-distance Ironman Lake Tahoe.

For the first time in the United States, Ironman and Ironman 70.3 will take place on the same day when Ironman Lake Tahoe returns to the North Shore on Sept. 21.

The Ironman 70.3 race, also known as a Half Ironman, will lead athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike and a 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as the full-distance Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon.

The Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe is the 25th race in the U.S. Series. Last year’s inaugural Ironman Lake Tahoe sold out registration within a day.

“As Ironman expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities,” said Steve Meckfessel, managing director of Global Race Operations for Ironman. “Lake Tahoe is a perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region has to offer.”

General registration for Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe is now open at www.ironman.com/laketahoe70.3. For more information visit www.ironman.com.

April 22, 2014

For the first time in the United States, Ironman and Ironman 70.3 will take place on the same day when Ironman Lake Tahoe returns to the North Shore on Sept. 21.

The Ironman 70.3 race, also known as a Half Ironman, will lead athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike and a 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as the full-distance Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon.

The Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe is the 25th race in the U.S. Series. Last year’s inaugural Ironman Lake Tahoe sold out registration within a day.

“As Ironman expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities,” said Steve Meckfessel, managing director of Global Race Operations for Ironman. “Lake Tahoe is a perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region has to offer.”

General registration for Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe is now open at www.ironman.com/laketahoe70.3. For more information visit www.ironman.com.

North Tahoe to host pair of Ironman events Staff report7:02 p.m. PDT April 22, 2014

North Lake Tahoe will host Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races on the same day in September.

The dual races will be held Sept. 21. Ironman Lake Tahoe sold out last year.

Ironman 70.3, a half version of the Ironman, consists of a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride and 13.1-mile run with the race starting in Kings Beach. The Ironman athletes in both events follow the same terrain. Registration is now open on the official Ironman website, www.ironman.com/laketahoe70.3.

North Lake Tahoe also will hold the 2015-16 USA Cycling Amateur and Para-cycling Road National Championships.

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North Lake Tahoe adds additional IRONMAN event

Print Story Published: 4/22 8:52 am Share Updated: 4/22 11:45 am NORTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. (MyNews4.com & KRNV) -- For the first time nationally, IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 will race on the same day in North Lake Tahoe. IRONMAN announced Tuesday that IRONMAN Lake Tahoe will pilot this dual program in North America, a program format that is already well received by athletes in Asia-Pacific.

“As IRONMAN expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities,” said Steve Meckfessel, managing director of Global Race Operations for IRONMAN. “Lake Tahoe is a perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region has to offer.”

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. The race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in North Lake Tahoe at King’s Beach. Athletes will have a lakeside transition before starting a one-loop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee.

From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

The IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe is the 25th race in the U.S. Series. IRONMAN Lake Tahoe returns for the second time after selling out registration last year. The two races are scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2014. For more information, or to register click HERE.

North Lake Tahoe adds additional IRONMAN event Updated: Tuesday, April 22 2014, 02:47 PM EDT

NORTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. -- For the first time nationally, IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 will race on the same day in North Lake Tahoe. IRONMAN announced Tuesday that IRONMAN Lake Tahoe will pilot this dual program in North America, a program format that is already well received by athletes in Asia-Pacific.

“As IRONMAN expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities,” said Steve Meckfessel, managing director of Global Race Operations for IRONMAN. “Lake Tahoe is a perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region has to offer.”

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. The race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in North Lake Tahoe at King’s Beach. Athletes will have a lakeside transition before starting a one-loop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee.

From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

The IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe is the 25th race in the U.S. Series. IRONMAN Lake Tahoe returns for the second time after selling out registration last year. The two races are scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2014. For more information, or to register click HERE.

Ironman Adds 70.3 Lake Tahoe  

By Triathlete.com Published Apr 21, 2014  Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe will take place on the same day as Ironman Lake Tahoe.  Ironman announced today that North Lake Tahoe will host a 70.3 race starting this year. The inaugural Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe triathlon will take place on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014 concurrently with the Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon.  Having Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races on the same day in the same venue has been well received by athletes in Asia-Pacific. For 2014, Ironman will pilot this program in North America at Ironman Lake Tahoe by adding Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe.  “Lake Tahoe is a beautiful and very challenging venue,” said Andrew Messick, Chief Executive Officer for Ironman. “Our Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon introduced last year has quickly become one of the most difficult races in our series. We are thrilled to provide this dual race with the addition of Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe—as it creates a new and unique athlete experience here in North America.”  Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56mile bike and 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as Ironman Lake Tahoe. The Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in the pristine waters of North Lake Tahoe at King’s Beach. Athletes will enjoy a lakeside transition before starting a oneloop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee. From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley, home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe To Become 25th Race in U.S. Ironman 70.3 Series Posted by: Susan Legacki , April 21, 2014 IRONMAN announced today that North Lake Tahoe has been selected to host the 25th race in the IRONMAN® 70.3® U.S. Series. The inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe triathlon will take place on Sunday, September 21, 2014 concurrently with the IRONMAN Lake Tahoe triathlon.

Having IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 races on the same day in the same venue has been well received by athletes in Asia-Pacific. For 2014, IRONMAN will pilot this program in North America at IRONMAN Lake Tahoe by adding IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe.

“Lake Tahoe is a beautiful and very challenging venue,” said Andrew Messick, Chief Executive Officer for IRONMAN. “Our IRONMAN Lake Tahoe triathlon introduced last year has quickly become one of the most difficult races in our series. We are thrilled to provide this dual race with the addition of IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe – as it creates a new and unique athlete experience here in North America.”

“As IRONMAN expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities,” said Steve Meckfessel, Managing Director of Global Race Operations for IRONMAN. “Lake Tahoe is the perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region have to offer.”

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. The IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in the pristine waters of North Lake Tahoe at King’s Beach. Athletes will enjoy a lakeside transition before starting a one-loop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee. From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley, home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with IRONMAN with the inclusion of IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe,” said Andy Chapman, Chief Marketing Officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association. “The opportunity to showcase our region as a world-class endurance venue to athletes from around the globe fits perfectly with our human-powered sports initiative. Last year’s inaugural IRONMAN Lake Tahoe was an epic experience and we look forward to welcoming both IRONMAN Lake Tahoe and IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe athletes this fall.” Mr. Chapman highly recommends athletes book accommodations soon after registering for the event due to many properties filling up quickly.

IRONMAN is also announcing a revised bike course for IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. “Athletes want to train on the entire bike course. By replacing the section of the course which went through a private development with an exciting new section in Northstar, athletes now have the option to preview the entire bike course prior to race day,� said Keats McGonigal, Operations Manager for IRONMAN. Updated course maps for IRONMAN Lake Tahoe can be found at www.ironman.com/laketahoe.

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe will offer 30 age group slots to the 2015 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship taking place on August 30, 2015 in Zell am See-Kaprun, SalzburgerLand, Austria.

General registration for IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe will open Monday, April 28, 2014 at 12:00 pm ET at www.ironman.com/laketahoe70.3. For more information on the IRONMAN brand and global event series, visit www.ironman.com. Athlete inquiries may be directed tolaketahoe70.3@ironman.com. Media may contact press@ironman.com.

LAKE TAHOE TO BECOME 25th race in the IRONMAN 70.3 U.S. Series Race to coincide with IRONMAN Lake Tahoe on September 21, 2014 IRONMAN announced today that North Lake Tahoe has been selected to host the 25th race in the IRONMAN® 70.3® U.S. Series. The inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe triathlon will take place on Sunday, September 21, 2014 concurrently with the IRONMAN Lake Tahoe triathlon.

Having IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 races on the same day in the same venue has been well received by athletes in AsiaPacific. For 2014, IRONMAN will pilot this program in North America at IRONMAN Lake Tahoe by adding IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe.

“Lake Tahoe is a beautiful and very challenging venue,” said Andrew Messick, Chief Executive Officer for IRONMAN. “Our IRONMAN Lake Tahoe triathlon introduced last year has quickly become one of the most difficult races in our series. We are thrilled to provide this dual race with the addition of IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe – as it creates a new and unique athlete experience here in North America.”

“As IRONMAN expands globally, there is an increased desire for athletes from all regions to have similar opportunities,” said Steve Meckfessel, Managing Director of Global Race Operations for IRONMAN. “Lake Tahoe is the perfect venue for this program as it allows athletes with different fitness levels and goals to experience everything Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region have to offer.”

IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe leads athletes through a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run on the same terrain as IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. The IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe race will start with a single loop 1.2-mile swim in the pristine waters of North Lake Tahoe at King’s Beach. Athletes will enjoy a lakeside transition before starting a one-loop 56-mile bike course that will travel through Tahoe City before following the Truckee River past Squaw Valley and into the town of Truckee. From there, the course turns south past Northstar and climbs to Brockway Summit. Athletes will complete the bike course at Squaw Valley, home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. Runners will proceed back up the Truckee River bike path and be treated to a relatively flat course before finishing along the cobbled corridors of the Village at Squaw Valley.

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with IRONMAN with the inclusion of IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe,” said Andy Chapman, Chief Marketing Officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association. “The opportunity to showcase our region as a world-class endurance venue to athletes from around the globe fits perfectly with our humanpowered sports initiative. Last year’s inaugural IRONMAN Lake Tahoe was an epic experience and we look forward to welcoming both IRONMAN Lake Tahoe and IRONMAN 70.3 Lake Tahoe athletes this fall.” Mr. Chapman highly recommends athletes book accommodations soon after registering for the event due to many properties filling up quickly.

IRONMAN is also announcing a revised bike course for IRONMAN Lake Tahoe. “Athletes want to train on the entire bike course. By replacing the section of the course which went through a private development with an exciting new section in

Northstar, athletes now have the option to preview the entire bike course prior to race day,” said Keats McGonigal, Operations Manager for IRONMAN. Updated course maps for IRONMAN Lake Tahoe can be found at www.ironman.com/laketahoe.

Squaw Valley : Ski Resort Tahoe - Beauty in a high place.

4/15/2014

Dr. Brett Denkin Dr. Brett 's Reviews

Squaw Valley : Ski Resort Tahoe - Beauty in a high place.

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ith no direct flights from New York I headed to Squaw Valley, California via Seattle making use

of my three-hour layover to catch up on history of the resort. Having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1960, Squaw Valley is often referred to as Olympic Valley, site of the first Olympics to be televised live, creating significant visibility for a resort modeled after European ski destinations that originally opened in 1946.

I arrived in Reno on a late Saturday afternoon in mid-March to sixty-five degree sunshine, a welcome respite from another harsh New England winter. In Reno airport I met my host Connie, a spunky young public relations person, at the Giant Slalom bronze ski sculpture close to baggage claim. A few moments later, we were eating Chinese food inside the Peppermill Casino, a popular destination for Reno gamers. As the sun began to set in the high desert west of Reno, Connie was gracious enough to drive me to The Village at Squaw Valley, a forty-five minute ride west into the stunning Sierra Nevadas.

My one-bedroom suite on the second floor at The Village at Squaw Valley was simple, comfortable, and straightforward. A small kitchenette and countertop separated a rectangular shaped living room with a dining table, pull out coach, flat screen television, and gas fireplace. In the bedroom, there was ample closet space, a window overlooking the village below, and a flat screen television. The bathroom was simple and straightforward too, enhanced by excellent water pressure in the shower.

With no direct flights from the New York area to Reno, I was exhausted from nearly fourteen hours of door-to-door travel, and crashed early in a comfortable queen size bed.

The next morning, unusually warm and brilliantly sunny, I strolled around the village which emanated an upscale feel that reminded me of Beaver Creek and yet more down to earth too. There were several cute, boutique shops and restaurants, a full-service spa, a brand new Wanderlust yoga center, and art galleries. At 6200 feet, The Village at Squaw Valley has everything one needs to enjoy a terrific week of skiing including magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

I met my first host adjacent to my lodge at the Starbucks, had a quick latte outside in the bright sunshine, and walked across the way to the ski rental shop. A painless and easy ten minutes later and I had a pair of Solomon skis, along with boots and polls. My guide led us to the cable station where we boarded the Funitel, a fast, comfortable gondola that fits up to sixteen skiers though it was just us and a couple from Seattle. The views on the way up the mountain were breathtaking. I took plenty of pictures including several depicting an eighteen-hole golf course in the valley below.

The ski conditions on Sunday, my first day, were decent considering how little snowfall the region has received this winter. Normally Squaw Valley averages well over 400 inches a year, and in some years as much as 800 inches. However, this year the resort had just over 200 inches. Mountainsides and rock faces, normally completely white, were brown and bare in some places. Along the way up, my host shared his love of the Lake Tahoe region, and the Squaw Valley Ski Resort in particular, which is now merged with Alpine Meadows and in the midst of a 70 million dollar renovation. The two resorts, currently separated by a quick bus ride have a combined 270 trails and 43 lifts.

From the cable station, we skied down to another lift that took us to one of the peaks at nearly 9000 feet. The snow was soft, what locals call “corny” as the temperature approached fifty degrees. I was impressed with how much beginner and intermediate skiable terrain Squaw had at higher elevations.

Skiing the back side of the mountain near the Solitude lift was especially peaceful almost as if we had the entire Sierra Nevada wilderness to ourselves. At multiple spots near the top, Lake Tahoe was quite visible to the east even though a fog layer formed from warm air mixing with frigid water.

At Twenty-Two Bistro and Bar in the village, I met my host after a thoroughly enjoyable half day of bluebird skiing. Known for their Kobi beef burger and Ahi tuna, I ordered a kale salad and French fries. There are many restaurants to choose from throughout the village, including pizza, pubs, and Japanese. Across the way at the PlumpJack Café that evening, I enjoyed a super-tasty seafood sashimi cone appetizer followed by a deliciously abundant mocha-thyme brazed short rib main course.

For desert, I had the salted caramel creme brulee rounding out a pleasant dining experience in a comfortable atmosphere.

The next morning ....

I skied early riding the Funitel just after 9am. It was cold and windy at the top and the conditions were rough. The snow was hard, what some skiers refer to as “California Concrete.” I was disappointed until it warmed up and then the snow became more “corny.” Back at the lodge, a skier informed me that the conditions were slushy in the afternoon. A local also told me that “they’ve had three disappointing winters in a row.”

In the afternoon, I met my last host at the Starbucks again and we rode the Tram, a cable car that fits over a hundred people, to High Camp enjoying lunch at the panoramic Terrace Bar & Restaurant. The views of the lake and surrounding mountains were spectacular there. Beyond the terrace outside there was a pool and hot tub being readied to open for the spring season.

As I reflected upon my journey that evening aboard a flight from Reno to Los Angeles, I realized that overall The Squaw Valley Resort has plenty of amenities, excellent ski facilities, and above all a great

laid-back and terrifically scenic Northern California atmosphere. And yet, three warm winters in a row suggest that great skiing in the region is more dependent than ever on the weather patterns and less dependent on the actual resort itself, no matter how well-operated or funded. ....Â

EASTER BRUNCH IN RENO TAHOE

Reno Tahoe knows how to serve a phenomenal Easter Brunch to enjoy with family and friends. Check out these dining options to get a taste of what to expect:

ELDORADO CASINO RESORT The Buffet at the Eldorado is pulling out all the stops to serve guests a delectable Champagne Brunch this Easter Sunday. From traditional brunch favorites to special savory dishes, the wide variety of flavors is sure to impress.

This incredible Champagne Brunch is served from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is just $24.99 for adults, $13.99 for children age four to 10 and $19.99 for Club Eldorado gold card members and above.

SILVER LEGACY Celebrate with friends and family, and delight your senses with an irresistible array of taste sensations and unique offerings at Silver Legacy’s Easter brunches served Sunday, April 20.

Sterling’s Seafood Steakhouse’s Easter Champagne brunch is a plethora of astounding choices with service and ambiance that is unmatched! Come experience Easter in style from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Adults dine for $40 and children ages 6 to 12 is $20.

Silver Baron Easter Sunday Brunch will be serving guests from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Everything from crab legs and chilled shrimp to antipasto vegetable trays to “made to order” omelets. Additionally, choose roast leg of Sonoma lamb and slow roasted prime rib. This extensive buffet, just $25.99 for adults and $12.99 for children, ages 4 to 10, gives everyone what they want and more!

Flavor’s Easter Sunday Brunch, serving the Easter holiday guests from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., has options galore.

Breakfast specialties include choices like Oriental Shrimp and Calamari salad, traditional Antipasto vegetables and crab legs and chilled shrimp. All this for just $25.99 for adults and $12.99 for children 6 to 12.

Café Central’s Easter meal is served from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. for only $15.99 with a choice of soup or salad, roast stuffed leg of lamb with cabernet rosemary jus or honey glazed ham with gingered peach coulis. Choose from either creamy green onion mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes with herbs and Swiss cheese, fresh seasonal vegetables, homemade cross buns and rolls. Finish with chocolate banana bread pudding with banana foster sauce with tea or coffee.

JA NUGGET There is going to be an Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet in the Rose Ballroom from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The price is $22.95 for adults and $12.95 for children ages 5 to 11. For more information, call (800) 648-1177 and ask for reservations. Other restaurants in The Nugget will also be changing up their menus for Easter brunch. Here are a few of the other restaurants and times. 

Rotisserie Buffet – 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.



Restaurante Orozko – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Trader Dick’s – 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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Rosie’s Café – 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

ATLANTIS CASINO RESORT SPA The Atlantis Casino Resort will be having their special Easter gourmet brunch at their grand ballroom from 9AM until 2PM. Prices are $43.95 for adults and $16.95 for children 4-10. Try not to drool too much when you see this menu! Other restaurants in the Atlantis will be having special Easter menus as well! Click here for those menus and schedules!

• Jumbo Prawns & King Crab on Ice | Marinated Mussels with Mango Relish • Chianti Braised Sirloin Tips | Petite Filet Mignon • Orange Marmalade Glazed Ham • Rack of Lamb Persille | Applewood Smoked Bacon | Maple Sausage Links • Cheese Blintzes with Blueberry & Strawberry Sauce • Tantalizing selection of hand crafted breakfast pastries, pies and desserts from our award-winning bakery • And so much more!

HYATT REGENCY LAKE TAHOE The Lone Eagle grill will serve Easter brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Adults are $70, children 5 to 12 are $35, 4 and under are free. Tim Callicrate will be providing live music. The Lone Eagle Grille is located at 111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village, NV. For reservations, call (775) 886-6899.

CIRCUS CIRCUS RENO Enjoy an amazing meal and a visit from the Easter Bunny on April 20th from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The Courtyard Buffet is offering traditional dining options as well as some unique entrees for your holiday. Bring your cameras so you can catch photographs of your favorite bunny with the people you love.

Brunch runs from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. with Easter prices at $11.99 for adults and $6.99 for children age 4-11.

Supper starts at 11 a.m. and adults are only $16.99 with children 4-11 only $9.99. Children under 4 are free.

RED HAWK GOLF & RESORT If family friendly and fun is what you are seeking to celebrate Easter, look no further than the Red Hawk Event Center! Easter Brunch in the Event Center features an incredible menu including everyone’s favorite omelet and carving stations as well as a kids only station. Brunch will be held between 10am and 3pm. Adult fare for this event is $26.95. Kids 5-12 are $15.95. Children 4 and under are free. Reservations are highly recommended for this event. For reservations, please contact at (775) 626-6000 ext. 1206

Â

Easter Egg Hunts and Celebrations at Lake Tahoe Here are some Easter events in and around Tahoe.

Please check specific websites for dates and times.

2600 Alpine Meadows Road Tahoe City, California Comment: Comb the mountain for a golden egg containing a Bronze Season Pass in the free Adult Easter Egg Hunt. Hundreds of eggs hidden, but only one will be gold. For Kids: 7 and under ‐ An Easter Egg Hunt takes place at 10:15am at the Kids Camp Magic Carpet. Children 8 ‐ 13 ‐ An Easter Egg Hunt takes place at 10:15am at the Magic Carpet located off of Subway Chair.

Directly across Highway 28 from the main Tahoe City downtown Tahoe City, California Comment: Get a head start on the festivities during Easter Weekend at Tahoe City’s Spring Eggstravaganza & Egg hunt. Events include an egg hunt for the kids, a golden egg hunt for parents, face painting, games and more. Activities start at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 19th at Commons Beach in Tahoe City. Price: Free.

1210 Ski Way Incline Village, Nevada Comment: Come hunt for eggs on the slope! School House is the place with hidden eggs for the kids to find. Come early! Must have valid lift ticket!

reviewed on: February 27 2013

"Ideal for Families" Families of all sizes and abilities will love Diamond Peak Ski Resort. Just minutes from Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, Diamond Peak offers a free shuttle, knowledgeable instructors, and parking so close to the slopes you’re practically under the chairlift!

CORPORATE CULTURE Diamond Peak’s customer service is modeled after Disney and The Ritz‐Carlton. In other words, Diamond Peak employees are empowered to make sure your time with them is fantastic.

THE LESSON I took a one hour and forty‐five minute first time beginner snowboard lesson with a ratio of 1:6 that included rental equipment and a beginner lift ticket. My instructor, Alejandro, was friendly,

patient, and fun. As an added bonus, in my group there were two mothers around my age. I may have showed up alone, but within 30 minutes, I was with friends.

CHILD SKI CENTER Two Hour Group Lesson $110 Group lessons start at 10 am and 2 pm. Registration for 10 am lessons is available from 8:00 ‐ 9:30 am. Registration for 2 pm lessons is available from 12:30 ‐ 1:30 pm.

March of the Penguins All Day Package $150 From 10am to 4pm with drop offs starting at 8 am. The day begins with a morning lesson from 10:00am‐12:00pm, breaks for lunch, rest, and play, and concludes with another lesson from 2pm‐4pm.

Private Lessons 1 hour 9am‐10am $100 1.5 hours 12:30pm‐2:00pm $155

Kids Ski School includes lesson, rentals, lift ticket, snacks and supervision. Children age 3 may only take private lessons. Helmets are available to rent on a first come first serve basis for $10.

Children are not required to wear helmets.

FAMILY FRIENDLY AMENITIES Child group ski lessons occur in a separate area with a magic carpet. Diamond Peak offers Child Ski Center Photography, a service that allows parents to view and purchase pictures of their children during their lesson. BRILLIANT!

Diamond Peak requires children under 51" to ride their lifts with a partner. Love it! I’ve never seen this rule anywhere else.

As a non‐skier trying to break into the sport, I was shocked to learn that in most child group ski or snowboard lessons, kids don’t always ride the chairlift with the instructor. Often, children ride the lift with other students or by themselves. It’s the same wherever you go, so it’s crucial to stress chairlift responsibility to your child before their lesson.

If you would like your child to always ride with an instructor during a lesson, you’re best bet is a private or semi‐private, ski or snowboard lesson.

DIAMOND PEAK SKI SHUTTLE The complimentary shuttle picks up from 14 different locations in Incline Village. The Hyatt Regency free shuttle runs to Diamond Peak every half‐hour beginning at 8:30 am until 1:00 pm.

DINING A family‐friendly Food Court and a full‐service bar, Loft Bar, are open every day. On the weekends and holidays, Lodge Pole BBQ, Phatty's on‐the‐go offerings, and Macho Nachos are also available for your dining pleasure. Snowflake Lodge, a mid‐mountain lodge, is accessible to

skiers and snowboarders only via the Lakeview Chair.

THE CRAZY SWEET DEALS You can buy 2, 3, 5 or 7 day Mini‐Passes that enable you to go directly to the lift where they scan the pass to subtract a day from the card. Mini Passes can be used any day of the season and do not have to be used consecutively. An adult 7‐day mini pass is $268 or just $38/day. A child 7‐day mini pass is just $91 or just $13/day.

TIPS • Diamond Peak gift cards can be purchased at participating Costco Warehouses.

• Show a 2012/2013 season pass from anywhere else and you'll get a Diamond Peak lift ticket for just $35 or $45 during the holidays.

• If you're local, $25 gets you a weekday lift ticket valid from 11 am – 1 pm and a $10 food voucher so you can ski or snowboard on your lunch break.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary lesson to facilitate this review. I was not asked to express any particular opinion. My opinions are my own.

4. Gar Woods

5000 North Lake Boulevard Carnelian Bay, California Comment: Gar Woods in Carnelian Bay will continue with their annual Easter Egg celebration. The hunt for a golden egg and other great prizes begins at 11 a.m. with four age categories: 0‐3 years, 4‐7 years and 8‐12 years. Adults will not be left out, as Gar Woods will offer a unique bottle hunt for those 21 and older. Join Garwoods for an Easter Brunch featuring delicious menu items that includes made‐to‐order breakfast, seafood, salads, a carving station, entrees and desserts! The deck will be open (weather permitting) and there will also be a special appearance by the Easter Bunny! Price: $44.95 for adults and $19.95 for children under 10.

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5. Homewood Mountain Resort

5145 Westlake Blvd.

Homewood, California Comment: Skiers and riders are invited to scour the slopes of Homewood in search of Ghirardelli Easter chocolate hidden throughout the entire mountain. All ages welcomed.

read more »

View 18 photos

6. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino

111 Country Club Drive Incline Village, Nevada Comment: On Easter Sunday, join the Hyatt Regency for two waves of egg hunts. The first begins at 11:30 a.m., the second starts at 1:30 p.m. by the Lone Eagle Grille Fire Pit.

reviewed on: February 12 2013

"Knocked My Socks Off" Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino knocked my socks off. Located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, this jewel of a resort features its own private stretch of beach—arguably the most beautiful section of all of Lake Tahoe! A stay at here, regardless of season, is a vacation from the inside out. Even your soul will clap with excitement!

Rooms range from Lakeside Cottages with full kitchens and fireplace and Family Suites with bunk beds to Balcony Rooms overlooking the hotel’s fun zone—a just‐for‐kids wading pool and playground and a year‐round heated lagoon style pool with two oversized jetted hot tubs.

WINTER There’s so much to do here, a two‐night stay just barely wets your whistle. For starters, a free

shuttle transports guests to and from several fantastic ski resorts including Diamond Peak and Northstar and offers complimentary shuttle service within Incline Village. For parents of little ones, the road leading up to the resort is lined with lakefront playgrounds offering breathtaking views. My son and I played at a nearby playground for hours until the sun set over the lake.

Additional highlights include an on‐site arcade, an on‐site casino, a spa with couples massage suites, and fire pits for roasting s’mores!

SUMMER Besides bicycle rentals; self‐guided hikes; and catamaran sails, free kid activities are offered separate from, but running parallel to Camp Hyatt. A typical summer day at the Hyatt for kids and parents:

9am – Tahoe Lake Stroll 10 am – Drip Drip Drop 11am – Wet T‐Shirt Relay 1pm – Cannon Ball Contest 2pm – Tug O War 3pm – Potato Sack Races 4pm – Soccer 8:45pm – S’mores

SUMMER TIPS ‐High Chairs can be requested for Lakeside Cottages ‐Beach Cabanas are $150.00 per day ‐Camp Hyatt is $75 per child, per day

LONG EAGLE GRILLE Having recently undergone a $700,000 renovation, Lone Eagle’s impressive lounge and dining room features two grand wood‐burning fireplaces, a lodge‐style mountain bar, lounge chairs with leather backs, shared tables, swanky couches, antler chandeliers, and a warm, rustic color scheme.

TAHOE PROVISIONS A gourmet deli and coffee shop with a pastry counter that will make you forget your diet. You can purchase Starbucks coffee drinks here, such as the Chai Tea Lattes I enjoyed each morning.

This is also where you can buy s'mores kits for nighttime family fun!

Disclosure: I received complimentary lodging to facilitate this review. I was not asked to express any particular opinion. My opinions are my own. I LOVE THIS PLACE! read more »

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7. Incline Beach

967 Lakeshore Blvd.

Incline Village, Nevada Comment: The community Egg Hunt at Incline Beach also begins on Saturday, April 19 with the Spring Eggstravaganza Community Egg Hunt. Grab your basket and join in the fun, starting at 11 a.m.

The hunt is open to children up to 11 years old. Come early to take a picture with the Easter Bunny and check out the new North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District Engine.

read more »

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8. Incline Village Recreation Center Pool

980 Incline Way Incline Village, Nevada Comment: The Underwater Egg Hunt at Incline Village Recreation Center kicks off Easter celebrations on April 12, 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The pool at the Recreation Center will be filled with weighted and floating eggs. The Big Bunny will make an early appearance for pictures and encouragement. For more information, call (775) 832‐1310. Price: Recreation Center members $2; non‐members $4.

read more »

View 12 photos

9. Lone Eagle Grille On the Lake

111 Country Club Drive Incline Village, Nevada Comment: The lakeside Lone Eagle Grille at the Hyatt Regency will offer an Easter Buffet fit for anyone with a big appetite. There will be a plethora of breakfast options including an omelet station and pancake station. Lunch plates continue with a carving station, Caesar salad station and entrees such as roasted lamb, blackened salmon, King Alaskan King Crab legs, and more.

reviewed on: March 15 2013

"Plated Paradise" Attention Families! Lone Eagle Grille at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort is a MUST SEE, a MUST DO, and a MUST EAT. Whether you're a guest of the resort or not, Lone Eagle Grille is the quintessential Incline Village dining experience—the view of Lake Tahoe alone is worth a million bucks! The lake is so vast, dining here feels more oceanfront than lakefront.

In summer, parents can enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets over Lake Tahoe while their children build sandcastles on the restaurant’s private beach reserved for hotel and restaurant guests only. In winter, Lone Eagle Grille's outdoor deck is the perfect gathering place for roasting s’mores by outdoor fire pits or for admiring views of the lake over gourmet seafood and prime cuts of steak in a relaxing and glamorous Alpine environment.

Having recently undergone a $700,000 renovation, Lone Eagle’s impressive lounge and dining room features two grand wood‐burning fireplaces, a lodge‐style mountain bar, lounge chairs with leather backs, shared tables, swanky couches, antler chandeliers, and a warm, rustic color scheme.

My family was seated inside at a table against a window overlooking the lake. My son was presented with a kids menu and crayons and I with a wine list. I ordered an amazing glass of $17 red wine—expensive, but excellent! Table bread came with butter topped with a layer of sea salt. The flavor and the texture of the bread and the butter coupled with the crunch of the salt was a party in my mouth.

My son ordered the Grilled Chicken Breast with Carrots and Fries $12. The chicken breast was full of flavor, cooked on the grill, juicy and delicious! For desert, a kid's scoop of vanilla ice cream $5.

I ordered a Petite Filet Mignon with Jumbo Pacific Prawns and Roasted Garlic Potatoes—each bite a flavorful blast of goodness shooting straight to the pleasure center of my brain. For desert I enjoyed Vanilla Cream Brulee with a Biscotti dipped in White Chocolate.

PARKING Both valet and complimentary self‐parking are available. When the weather heats up and boating season is in full swing, complimentary dockside boat valet is provided. If you're a guest of the Hyatt, Lone Eagle Grille is within walking distance. I'd guess 1/4th of a mile or less.

Disclosure: My family received a complimentary meal to facilitate this review. I was not asked to express any particular opinion. My opinions are my own. read more »

10. Northstar California

5001 Northstar Drive Truckee, California Comment: Northstar California will celebrate with daylong festivities for all ages. Starting with an egg hunt across the Village at 10:30 a.m., followed by a PEEPS® Diorama Contest. Take a ride around the ice‐skating rink and a picture with Easter Bunny. Don’t miss the chance to catch the Easter Bunny skiing on the mountain during the day.

read more »

11. River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant

2285 River Road Tahoe City, California Comment:

Enjoy a special plated brunch menu while dining by the river this Easter at the River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant. The River Ranch is located between Tahoe City and Squaw Valley. Call 530‐ 583‐4264 for reservations; available 10:00 a.m. ‐ 2:00 p.m.

read more »

12. Scheels Sporting Goods

1200 Scheels Drive Sparks Sparks, Nevada Comment: Answer the Easter Egg Clues to make your way around the store and get candy! Please meet under the Scheels Awning. Ferris Wheel rides will be FREE during the Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt. This event will be limited to the first 1,000 kids. Please arrive early. Contact eventsrs@scheelssports.com or 775‐331‐2700

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13. Squaw Valley

Lake Tahoe National Forest 1960 Squaw Valley Road Olympic Valley, California Comment: Squaw Valley’s annual on‐mountain Easter egg hunt begins the moment the lifts open Easter Sunday. Remember to bring your Easter basket and hunt for the candy filled colored eggs hidden across the mountain from Gold Coast to High Camp, along Shirley Lake and all the way down Mountain Run.

read more »

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14. Sugar Bowl Ski Resort

629 Sugar Bowl Road Norden, California Comment: Join the kids for an Easter egg hunt on the morning of April 20th in America’s only snowbound Village, located at Sugar Bowl Resort. Then head out on the mountain to find the Golden Egg, which contains a free 2014/15 Midweek season pass.

read more »

15. Tahoe Donner

11603 Snowpeak Way Truckee, California Comment: The Easter Bunny left some eggs behind on our longest run. Meet at the top of Eagle Rock at 1:30 p.m., and help us find his eggs. You might get lucky and find a special golden egg. Free

read more »

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Travel: The slopes still call in spring

By Paul McHugh Special to The Bee

Published: Sunday, Apr. 6, 2014 - 12:00 am

This is no fairy tale. Once upon a time, major ski resorts actively competed to see who could stay open the longest. Season closings sometimes came as late as July 4. Giants bestrode the hills in those days, with names like Alex Cushing (at Squaw) and Dave McCoy (Mammoth) – resort owners who set policy at whim, with a flick of their mighty managerial fists.

Now we are in a different climate, both meteorological and economic. Corporate resort owners use far less ego-driven ways to determine how long a season will endure. Here’s the short of it: The 2013-14 winter recreation season will come to screeching halt at most resorts

by April 30, and in many cases, 10 days sooner, halting the lifts just before sunset on Easter.

The good news is that special events and special deals and ticket prices will abound in these closing weeks of the season – primarily the chance to ski free through April by buying season passes now for the 2014-15 season. With signs that an El Niño weather pattern might be forming in the Pacific, next year could over-fill every hope and expectation.

A selection of currently announced closing dates includes: Diamond Peak, April 13; Mount Rose, April 20; Northstar, April 20; Heavenly, April 20; and Kirkwood, April 27. As of this writing, Sugar Bowl is aiming at April 20, but may elect to stay open longer; Squaw Valley and Alpine are thinking “end-of-April” but may extend; Sierra-at-Tahoe has tentatively selected April 13. Boreal will close April 20, but plans to keep its sister resort, Soda Springs at Norden, open until April 27 so that families can enjoy the snow-play area during the week after Easter.

If you check the resorts online to see current status, you can also discover some of the events and deals. For example, you can score a 2014-15 season pass at Heavenly by putting $49 down now and paying the rest in the fall, and enjoy gondola privileges all summer long. Or acquire a new season pass at Squaw, and you’ll get free days at Sugar Bowl, Alpine and Sierra-at-Tahoe as part of the deal. If you’re not a season-pass person, you can still get $10 off a weekend lift ticket at Squaw by dressing up according to one of the resort’s playful

posted themes. If you hold a pass for another resort, Mount Rose wants to lure you over with a $29 daily lift price for the rest of the season.

But no matter where you go, for best results you’ll need a good strategy, and that depends on understanding that in spring, snow turns into a different animal. It’s true that a cold storm – like the one that hit Tahoe during the last week in March – is going to put down a layer that will operate for all intents and purposes like a winter surface, “the firm, packed powder” that’s a staple phrase of snow reports.

However, it won’t stay that way for long. Snow constantly evolves, and one of its most interesting manifestations is the spring phenomenon of “corn” snow. This requires a succession of warm days and freezing nights. After a string of them, water vapor migrating through the pack will condense on rounded grains of ice, which produces, in effect, a field of damp ball bearings.

Even after the night groomers work, the slopes will freeze into solid sheets when temperatures are low enough. When dawn comes and they get kissed by sunshine, those sheets will gradually thaw. The grains of corn snow will become a silky and soft hominy that will gracefully accept an edge from ski or snowboard, and let you make smooth and fast turns with confidence.

The other nickname for corn snow, by the way, is “hero” snow.

Here’s how to respond, and transform yourself into a skilled hunter of corn snow. Get to the resort before lifts open, and make sure you’re riding up as soon as the bullwheels start to spin. Study the mountain map, and look for the first slopes that will be bathed in sunshine.

While on the chair, if you hear other early birds coming down the hill who make the scrapescrape sound of steel edges on ice with every turn, at that point, you need be in no special hurry. Take a few warmup runs on the lowest, low-angle slopes.

Then give the high chair another try. As soon as you hear the swish-swish of edges sinking into softening snow, charge that run. As the slopes soften, check the map for the next run to receive sunshine, then the next, working your way up and down the mountain. Save the highest and shadiest runs for last. As soon as those runs get slushy, call it good, rack your boards and go get a burger or bowl of chili. Save your energy for the next day’s workout.

There’s a lot to like about spring skiing: You can wear light clothing, the roads are clear, lift lines are practically nonexistent, there’s special pricing and events. And, of course, there’s that special snow, readily available to help you access your inner ski hero.

• Read more articles by Paul McHugh

Where's the Snow this Weekend: West Coast Report 4/2/14 2nd April 2014 | JOEL GRATZ

Tahoe and Oregon waited all season for one great week of snow, and that week was last week. Eight-day totals ending on April 1st show that the powder was plentiful: Sugar Bowl, CA: 88" Kirkwood, CA: 72" Squaw Valley, CA: 66" Alpine Meadows, CA: 48" Mt. Bachelor, OR: 45" The entire west coast will see a break in the snow on Thursday, then another batch of moisture will take aim on the Pacific Northwest from Friday night through Sunday with British Columbia, Washington and Oregon seeing 20" + of powder. The issue with this storm will be the snow levels, which will be in the 4,000-5,000 foot range in Washington, a bit higher in Oregon and a bit lower in British Columbia. Stay at the upper parts of the mountain for the best snow and to avoid the rain.

Spring weather will take over on Monday April 7th and last for about a week, so expect sunny skies and warm temperatures. Then more storms will return to the west coast during the middle of April, so we’re not done yet!

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April 2014

Lake Tahoe holds scenic diversions for active groups

by Zachary Chouteau A four-season oasis of splendid scenery and eclectic excitement, Lake Tahoe has long been a locale where meeting groups gather to experience the good life together. Whether their attendees are active go-getters out to conquer a physical challenge, worn-out executives seeking rejuvenation, or adventure-seekers thirsting for scenic excursions, this alpine gem delivers endless options.

But what’s hot now when it comes to great group get-togethers? Plenty, according to the experts Meetings Focus inquired with to share insights on everything from tasty trends to made-over meeting spaces to active escapes.

Here’s a look at some of Tahoe’s trendiest tastes and temptations, starting at the top o’ the lake.

NORTH SHORE “One trend we’re seeing is planners making decisions that go beyond the rate-based factors, and taking items like location and overall offerings into account,” says Jason Neary, director of sales for the North Lake Tahoe CVB. “With less and less vacation time for many workers, we’re also seeing attendees integrate family getaways into their meetings travel, which is a very positive trend for Tahoe.”

Neary adds that creative team building is also on the rise, such as CSR opportunities spearheaded by the CVB working with Mana, the local food bank, and groups like Build-aBike and the Adaptive Ski School.   

MORE COVERAGE Lake Tahoe CVB Information (2014) Latest & Greatest - Lake Tahoe (April 2014) Top attractions for Tahoe tradition

Given its unspoiled nature, it’s also no surprise that the green wave of sustainability would catch on big in Tahoe, and some of its top lodgings are now highly honed in on sustainability. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe was the region’s first LEED-certified property, and there are also in-depth green programs at lodgings like Northstar California Resort and the Resort at Squaw Creek, which has integrated more than 100 green initiatives over the past five years.

Andrea Daly, assistant director of catering and convention services at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, nestled along the northeastern shores of the lake on the Nevada side, also reports a rise in team-building interest.

“We’re seeing more and more groups participating in outdoor team-building activities like scavenger hunts and geo-caching,” Daly says. “We’re also noticing groups participating in interactive group relay races, since they can really be tailored to accommodate different sizes of groups—from two to 20 or more—and can cater to the varying physical abilities within each group.”

Daly adds that one of the coolest recent offerings at the property is glow-in-the-dark kayaking on the lake at night, when the resort worked with Destination Services, its inhouse DMC, to host a recent relay with about 150 participants. The race was part of a “glow in the dark beach party” that also included volleyball and hula hoop competitions, using glow sticks and other glowing materials to really shine in the Tahoe night.

“A team from a major technology company arranged this activity for their attendees last summer, and it was a great hit,” she explains. “It was a fantastic way to break the ice and network while exploring Tahoe and leaving an inspiring and lasting impression.”

Riding a larger overall national trend, Granlibakken Conference Center and Lodge recently added California’s first aerial park, a tree-top canopy adventure with scenic bridge strolling and exhilarating ziplining.

“There are five different routes groups can traverse, and it’s absolutely incredible,” says the CVB’s Neary, adding that his group employed the park for their own bonding efforts and he was absolutely blown away by the experience.

The dining scene in the region is also hotter than ever, boosted by the trendy arrival of food trucks at the Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows resorts. Dubbed Mtn. Roots, the trucks offer light snacks and fuller meals, and feature ever-changing menus showcasing the wealth of locally available ingredients. One truck will be parked mainly on First Street at The Village at Squaw Valley and the other at the base of Alpine Meadows, and both trucks will roam for special events.

SOUTH SHORE Down south, Marlena Boldt, director of resort sales for The Ridge Resorts, says an overall boom in meeting venues and offerings is at the heart of what’s hot—plus a renewed interest in an old Tahoe standby.

“A revitalization renaissance trend is continuing in South Lake Tahoe, with new properties coming onboard, additional meeting space, and attractions and restaurants to help get the creative juices flowing,” Boldt says. “At The Ridge Tahoe Resort we’ve seen significant growth in meeting groups from Northern California that are looking for ski-focused

meetings. Groups can brainstorm, discuss business on the chairlift or in traditional meeting space.”

Liesl Kenney, public relations coordinator at Heavenly Mountain Resort, says activity that fits this trend includes the recent debut of the Basecamp Hotel, a hip boutique property with a craft brew bar, plus Base Camp Pizza, a new gourmet pizzeria in Heavenly Village that specializes in unique toppings such as pear and gorgonzola.

Other notable new additions, according to Kenney, include the Landing Resort & Spa, an upscale lakeside boutique property, and the Gunbarrel Tavern, a new Heavenly Village restaurant and nightspot already known for its colorful craft cocktails.

“The stand-up paddleboard trend continues to rage throughout Lake Tahoe,” she adds, “with popular tours available through outfitters like the Tahoe Adventure Company.”

Tahoe’s always trendy dining scene continues to sizzle. One of the hottest recent additions is Jimmy’s Restaurant (at the Landing Resort), where local ingredients are showcased via creative California cuisine as well as Greek-inspired fare. And oenophiles will be in wine heaven with more than 2,000 bottles on hand from more than 250 sources. Several private dining alcoves boost Jimmy’s group dining possibilities.

The Beacon, located at the Camp Richardson Resort, is another hot dining choice, as is the Hungry Bear, a casual dining spot at the Ridge Resort.

Trendy nightlife in South Lake Tahoe includes Opal Ultra Lounge at the Montbleu Casino Spa & Resort, where an often-packed dance floor is enhanced by “body art” dancers, and VIP tables are available for groups seeking that exclusive feeling. PEEK Nightclub at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe is another red-hot evening lure, offering 40 snazzy VIP areas.

Popular casino action includes the offbeat fun offered at the Montbleu Resort’s Party Pit, where a pair of Sigma Derby machines stand waiting for a small group to have a great time.

There are few of these unique arcade machines left in existence, and the old-school fun offered by the mechanical horse racing/betting game is truly as enjoyable as any high-tech casino offering.

4 funny content marketing moves

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Constance Aguilar Media Planning & Buying Posted on April 01, 2014 In marketing, buzzwords have a shelf life, and it's typically about a year. Fads and stunts come and go, and we have to be as nimble as ever to keep up and create campaignsP that capture fresh audiences.

2013 was the year of content marketing. Suddenly, every brand and public figure was rushing to the drawing board to pen articles for websites, design and release infographics, release e-books, etc.

Being an industry leader meant a brand's musings on everything from business strategy to social media practices had to be out there for any potential partner or customer to see.

There is much merit to the substantial impacts of content marketing, and even today, it has weathered the storm and continues to be a key component to marketing strategies. But as with any "hot topic," it introduced a mass of generic and redundant marketing components to the web.

So how does a marketer avoid spending time, energy, and money on client tools, only to have them fall into the abyss of the internet with nothing to show for it? Well, one incredibly efficient tactic is integrating humor with your content marketing. Here is how a few folks took a chance, sometimes even a risk, with humor and created hilarious and unique campaigns worth noting.

Après Hero, North Lake Tahoe This is a humorous spin on the traditional "how-to" e-book. North Lake Tahoe created a downloadable e-book chocked full of hilarious imagery and step-by-step guides for the Bay Area techies who frequent their slopes to play the cool Tahoe part after they "shred some knar." Complete with an accompanying hashtag, this campaign has the chops to offend some, but leave others in stitches.

E-books are great for humorous campaigns because they have so many layers to make funny: Think hilarious viral images embedded in digital pages, Hashtags with funny phrases, and comical new definitions for slang words associated with the project.

Iowa says, "Well, f**k you" Videos are compelling pieces of storytelling content for brands. But creating another glossy, commercial-style video that gives viewers no real emotional connection to products or services is obviously ineffective and rather dull content marketing. Instead, consider letting your videos come to life with humor. Play off your strengths and weaknesses with a touch of sarcasm, a little playful banter, and if you're brave, some foul language.

One of the more recent examples of hilarious video content marketing is "Devil Baby Attack," a campaign for the movie "Devil's Due." The campaign used a demon-like animatronic infant to scare everyday pedestrians and capture their reactions on camera. This video was everywhere, and it slipped in right at the end the promotion for "Devil's Due." My personal favorite is this NSFW video from Iowa Filmmakers selling Iowa's liberal and progressive lifestyle to those who were previously in doubt. It made a huge splash online, and for good reason.

It's brilliant. You hang on every word, mouth gaping open, and in the end you're ready to pack your bags for Des Moines. Of all places.

Sinning on social Infographics, memes, comics, and GIFs give a brand the quirky opportunity to educate but still entertain audiences by showing off its funny bones. People love to laugh and share laughter sources on all social channels. Give them something to share that eventually leads them back to your brand, after the laughter dies down, of course.

Online marketing company Three Ships Media released a comic targeting the most annoying people on Facebook. Not only did it get passed around the web with its branding along the bottom, Mashable also picked it up!

Everyday "mansmells" Of course, a basic (but essential) content marketing component is the content share from a brand's Facebook or Twitter page. As social audiences become inundated with international, national, and local businesses' social content, humor is one tactic to stand out that can keep you on the positive side of the thoughts of your network.

Hands down, the best example of using humor in social content is Old Spice. It pulls in every demographic imaginable and dishes out manly tips, ridiculous photos, and its now famous videos.

There is never a dull day on the Old Spice page, and that keeps many fans consistently coming back for more. Yep, you can bet that the brand's solid sense of humor really does get results.

As a creative, you're always battling the board of directors who don't want to step on toes with marketing tactics. But based on these examples and the ever growing demand to make it big online, sometimes a risk equals a major reward. Funny tactics can carry over into slang trends, copycats, and tons of web impressions. Those results are true content marketing wins.

Constance Aguilar is the head of strategic communications at The Abbi Agency.

On Twitter? Follow Constance at @ConnieAguilar and iMedia Connection at @iMediaTweet.

Article Mentions

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Constance Aguilar, Head of Srategic Communications, The Abbi Agency Constance Aguilar is the head of strategic communications for The Abbi Agency, a digital marketing and public relations firm with offices in Reno and Las Vegas, Nev. She plans and executes social ...

Read more at http://www.imediaconnection.com/content/36258.asp#CvJABY2gObF2GVot.99Â

March 30, 2014

Business announcements for North Lake Tahoe and Truckee TAHOE/TRUCKEE, Calif.— Content for briefs is selected from e-mail submissions to Community Editor Amy Edgett at aedgett@sierrasun.com.

CATT invites you to a membership orientation The Contractors Association of Truckee Tahoe (CATT) announced a Membership Orientation for prospective members, new members, and existing CATT members on Wednesday, April 2, 4 p.m. at the Hotel Truckee Tahoe, 11331 Brockway Road, Truckee.

Light snacks will be served.

The Membership Orientation is open to all building contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers, and design professionals who work in the Truckee Tahoe area. The Orientation is geared to individuals and companies who want to maximize promotional efforts while being kept up to date on local building codes, fees, remodel trends, and more. Learn about CATT benefits and services and how to get the most out of a CATT membership. Current CATT members encouraged to attend. This is an opportunity to meet CAT Board Members and Committee Chairs, and find out how the membership dollars are spent.

For more information contact Kim Cross at 530-550-9999 or memberinfo@ca-tt.com. Visit CATT online at www.ca-tt.com.

Demystifying Solar Energy The solar energy workshop will be held Thursday, April 3, 6 p.m. at the Tahoe Donner Club House with Mark Dickson, a NABCEP certified PV solar designer and installer and Simple Power, a division of Kelly Brothers Painting, Inc. Topics to be covered will include what PV Solar is and how it works in simple terms; if PV Solar is the right solution for you; steps to take in your home or business to increase efficiency before installing a system; and current tax incentives and rebates available to residents and business owners who install PV Solar systems.

For more information call 530-550-0806, visit www.Kellybrotherspainting.com or email info@Kellybrotherspainting.com.

AT&T rolls out 4G AT&T has expanded its 4G LTE network in Reno, bringing more customers the latest generation of wireless network technology. AT&T launched 4G LTE in Reno on Dec. 13, 2012 and the expanded coverage is part of its ongoing rollout across the market.

AT&T 4G LTE coverage now includes parts of Truckee and Grass Valley.

Open Counter web tool The Town of Truckee has launched OpenCounter:Truckee. A web-based tool, OpenCounter helps start-up businesses interested in Truckee estimate the time, costs and processes necessary to set up shop. Each year more than half a million new businesses are formed nationally. These employers are a key element to creating strong communities.

Truckee’s investment in OpenCounter is part of its overall strategy to encourage small business and local economic development. In January 2014, the Town Council approved two new economic development incentive programs: Economic Development Support Program and the Economic Development Fund Program. For more information visit www.townoftruckee.com or call 530-582-2914.

Nonprofit infographic workshop If a picture is worth a thousand words, than an eye-catching and informative dashboard, map or infographic speaks volumes.

Nonprofits can create data visualization tools that effectively communicate their message to board members, executive directors, funders, staffers or volunteers.

The Center for Nonprofit Leadership of Nevada County is holding a “Dashboards, Maps and Infographics: Tools to Measure & Communicate” workshop from 8:30 a.m. to noon, Friday, April 11, 236 South Church St. in Grass Valley.

Many nonprofit officials “think it’s too complicated, too costly,” said Steve Monaghan, workshop presenter and Chief Information Officer for Nevada County. “But there are some simple things you can do.” Monaghan will answer questions and hold breakout sessions during the workshop.

Registration deadline is April 8. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. April 11. The cost is $45 for one or two CNL members registered from the same organization; $60 for non-members.

Additional participants are $25 for the same member organization, and $35 for non-member organizations. The fee includes a continental breakfast.

Visit www.CNLSierra.org, www.facebook.com/NevadaCountyNonProfitLeadership and Twitter @NevCoNonprofits.

Business sponsorships available for Little League North Tahoe Little League fields baseball teams from the West Shore to Incline Village.

Consider becoming a business partner by sponsoring a team and/or displaying your company logo on a field banner. Home Run level sponsor ($450) has only your company name on uniforms, banner at chosen field, and team photo plaque. Triple level sponsor ($350) has shared company names on uniforms, banner at chosen field, and team photo plaque. Double level sponsor ($250) produces a large company logo banner displayed at the field if your choice. Single level sponsor ($150) displays your existing company logo banner at the field of your choice. In California contact Mark Sura, clubbigblue@hotmail.com, in Nevada contact Robyn Hugar, robynhugar@cloud.com.

Support 2014 Earth Day Festival Consider becoming an Earth Day supporter by making a tax-deductible donation at a designated sponsorship level. Tahoe Truckee Earth Day is also open to event sponsors funding certain aspects of the event i.e. film festival, artwork, etc. Contact Steve at SAddison@squawvnc.com. The Tahoe Truckee Earth Day Festival is a volunteer run, nonprofit event to recognize, celebrate and promote the region’s unique beauty. Drop by the Village at Squaw Valley on April 19, 2014 for fun, live music and entertainment, and to learn how to preserve and protect our local and global natural resources.

Tax help for Eastern County Nevada County Treasurer & Tax Collector Tina M. Vernon will set up office in the Truckee area to serve Eastern County residents during peak property tax season. This is the first time a seasonal office for the Treasurer & Tax Collector has been available on the Eastern side of the county. Second installments are due no later than April 10, 2014. The seasonal office will be located at the Truckee Sheriff Substation in District V Supervisor Anderson’s office at 10879 Donner Pass Road, Ste. A. Vernon will be available April 7-9, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and is encouraging residents to come by and pay their property taxes, ask questions, or to just say “hello.” Payments can also be made by mail, postmarked no later than April 10, 2014 and sent to P.O. Box 128, Nevada City, CA 95959-0128 or made in person at the Nevada County Tax Collector’s Office, 950 Maidu Ave. in Nevada City. The office also offers payment by credit card or by virtual check at www.mynevadacounty.com/nc/ttc.

Call for special event grant funding applications

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travel

Reno exists in the shadow of its Nevada neighbour, Las Vegas, but is well worth a visit in its own right – in a small package, it has all the goods to keep even big-city folk going for weeks.

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et’s begin by getting the elephant out of the room right away: Reno is not Las Vegas, and nor does it want to be. While both towns have definitely benefited from Nevada’s lax laws on avarice and cheap electricity, Reno differs from the power-guzzling bling-bling machine of Vegas. It has moved on from being a party town reliant on gambling and quickie divorce, reinventing itself as a city teeming with vibrant arts and cultural scenes, fine restaurants and wine bars, endless sports and outdoor activities, a city packed with a multitude of different events and live performances all year round. Even better, it has gambling.

PLAY

Thanks to its location at the foothills of the snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains and the surrounding alpine lakes like Lake Tahoe, it’s possible in winter to snowboard in the morning and water-ski in the afternoon, experience some living history, eat like a king, and then gamble the night away. When summer rolls around, Reno has adrenaline pouring out of every pore, hosting events like the classic car convention Hot August Nights, the Street Vibrations motorcycle rally, the Great Reno Balloon Race, the Reno Rodeo, the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cookoff, and the Reno Air Races.

Being something of a sports mecca, it moves from season to season without a hitch. Apart from nearby Lake Tahoe’s world-class skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, visitors can also take advantage of white-water rafting and kayaking in the Truckee River, which passes right through downtown Reno. There are more than 50 golf courses, and endless trails for mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing and hunting, as well as skydiving and all manner of water sports on the surrounding lakes.

Downtown Reno also has the highest man-made

airnewzealand.co.nz



KiaOra

climbing wall in the world, built on the side of a casino.

The city is also slap-bang in the middle of historically rich cowboy country, and a few miles out of downtown is the old gold- and silver-mining town of Virginia City, a living ghost town that stands as a tribute to its Victorian-era history complete with actors in cowboy garb, old saloons, boardwalks, shops, candy stores, antique stores, museums, churches and restaurants lining its streets. It takes about 30 minutes to make the drive up through the sun-scorched landscape, and really helps put the Wild West, and the United States itself, into perspective.

To fully savour Reno’s exciting urban renaissance, look no further than the Riverwalk District along the Truckee River. It’s a celebration of all the wonderful things that Reno has done to reinvent itself in the past two decades, and here you will find countless shops, bars, restaurants, lodgings, cafes, art galleries, museums and a white-water park in a safe, fun, friendly area that celebrates Reno’s arts, culture, and history all year round. It’s especially popular on the long summer nights with many bar-centric events like the Reno Santa Crawl, Super Hero Crawl, and monthly wine walks before a late-night visit to the gaming tables.

EAT

Riverwalk is also the best bet when it comes to wining and dining and the scene here is as good as anywhere in the world. You will find everything from French country cuisine to Spanish-style tapas, gourmet pizzas, Thai, sushi, and several wine bars and brew pubs; you name it, it’s here and the whole neighbourhood is abuzz with people having a good time. One place not to miss is Campo (camporeno.com), a popular casual urban-chic eatery that is jumping every night of the week. Named one of the “Best New Restaurants in America” in 2012

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Terrace Lounge

by Esquire magazine, the chefs use only humanely treated meats and organic, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

For more traditional casino-style dining, check out the Pearl Oyster Bar and Grill up on the first floor of the Silver Legacy Resort Casino (silverlegacyreno.com). Here you will find a great selection of fresh seafood and a wide selection of oysters from Japan and the USA. It’s open to the sights and sounds of the casino so you should take a seat at the bar, order a dozen freshly shucked with a couple of their trademark Bloody Marys, and let the night unfold.

Across the road at the Eldorado Casino is the Brew Brothers, a microbrewery that produces eight distinct beers on site (eldoradoreno.com). Named best brewpub

by Nightclub & Bar magazine, they also have great comfort food in the form of steaks, pizza and the biggest tower of onion rings you’ve ever seen. It brings in a lively crowd of locals after hours for the live rock music on stage, and when the dancing stops and the band leaves the building, head across the floor to Roxy’s Lounge for some gin-based relaxation. The bar is famous for its 102 different types of Martini – the best accompaniment for lounge lizards since piano and smooth vocals.

SLEEP

Reno spent its formative years wallowing in gold prospecting and then gaming, and it would be a tragedy if you came here and didn’t enter the belly of the beast and stay in a casino resort. This is where America dresses up in all its gaudy finery and comes to life, showcasing its opulence and wealth. Casinos are never short of cash and they lavish it on their guests with grandiose designs, massive hotel rooms, bars, restaurants, an endless run of shows by topnotch performing artists, and of course the ceaseless excitement of neon lights, slot machines and dice.

Downtown, the big three would have to be the Eldorado Hotel Casino, Silver Legacy and the massive Circus Circus Hotel and Casino. These places are events, not hotels, and you need to let yourself be

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picked up by their tides of fantasy and go with the flow.

They are starting to show their age, however, so if you want something a bit fresher and grander, the safe money is about 10 minutes back up the main road at the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino (peppermillreno.com).

It has more than 1600 rooms and suites and is packed with restaurants, bars, marble, mirrors, swimming pools and slot machines, all wrapped in a faux Tuscan décor that – with its abundance of Italian frescoes, marble Romanesque statues, fountains and Corinthian columns – would make Liberace himself blush.

Like the gold- and silver-rich hills surrounding the town that made the city’s name and filled its coffers in the first place, Reno is nothing if not resourceful.

Its renaissance has turned a once-struggling city into a must-visit destination brimming with energy and excitement, and a place where people live their dreams rather than chasing them on the spin of a wheel.

STORY mICHAEL tRAVERS

Contact visitrenotahoe.com

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Reno Additional photographs Getty Images, Corbis

Air New Zealand offers non-stop flights to Los Angeles and San Francisco from Auckland, with onward connections to Reno.

The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association announced $9,000 of grant funding available for special events taking place in the North Lake Tahoe region of Eastern Placer County. Most individual grants will fall within the $500 to $2,500 range.

All grant money is slated for marketing and public relations efforts to promote regional events. Preference will be given to events which encourage overnight stays.

All groups interested in receiving funds must fill out the special event grant application by April 16, 2014. After initial review, select applicants will be asked to give the Grant Funding Task Force a five-minute presentation on April 25, 2014. The presentation to the Board of Directors for approval will take place May 7, 2014 and funding notification to applicants will occur May 8, 2014.

For a copy of the application and more information contact Judy Laverty, the special events program manager for the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, at 530-581-8702 or at Judy@GoTahoeNorth.com.