March 10 to April 6, 2021

march 10-april 6, 2021

decisions on

snowmobile use nears local anthology’s debut album

winter wonders of

winnemucca lake

ski, snowshoe far from the crowds

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TAHOE TRUCKEE AREA

REGIONAL TRANSIT

WIN TE R 2021 B US SERVICE S FREE Park and Ride Weekends | President’s Day To/from Squaw Valley, Northstar, and all Winter Recreation From area Park and Ride lots January 2021: 2–3, 9-10, 16–17, 23–24, 30–31 February 2021: 6–7, 13–15, 20–21, 27–28 March 2021: 6–7, 13–14, 20–21, 27–28

Transit Service Highlights · Hourly Mainline (Tahoe City–Incline Village) · Hourly Hwy. 89 (Tahoe City–Squaw Valley) · Hourly Hwy. 267 (Crystal Bay–Northstar) · Hourly Hwy. 89 (Tahoe City, Squaw Valley, Truckee) · Hourly Hwy. 267 (Crystal Bay, Northstar, Truckee) · Hourly Truckee Local Route Night service on both the Northshore and in Truckee is currently suspended. Check TahoeTruckeeTransit.com for schedule updates.

89

Park and Ride Lots are located at: Truckee Tahoe Airport District 10356 Truckee Airport Rd, Truckee CA Tahoe Truckee Unified School District Admin. Offices, 11603 Donner Pass Rd., Truckee CA Tahoe City Transit Center, 180 W. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA For more details, go to: TahoeTruckeeTransit.com/park-ride

I-80 South Shore Dr.

Donner Lake

Old Highschool PARK &

RIDE

TRUCKEE Gateway Center

Donner Memorial State Park

Regional Park

H

Depot

89

Brockway Rd.

28 Grove St.

P

Tahoe Bilitmore

INCLINE VILLAGE

28

Minnow

28

P

North Tahoe Event Cntr.

CRYSTAL BAY Hyatt

CARNELIAN BAY

P

Diamond Peak

PARK &

P

TAHOE CITY

Homewood Mountain Resort

Sand Harbor

SUNNYSIDE

89

LAKE TAHOE HOMEWOOD TAHOMA Sugar Pine Point

Covid-19

431

KINGS BEACH

P

89

Truckee Airport Town Hall

RIDE

National /28

Alpine Meadows

RENO

I-80 PARK &

TAHOE VISTA

SQUAW VALLEY

Granlibakken

Hourly service on Highway 267 and Highway 89 to/from Truckee.

267

P

NORTHSTAR

Deerfield Dr. | Crossroads

RIDE Tahoe City Transit Center

Daily Regional Routes

Henness Flat

MEEKS BAY

TART PUBLIC BUS

P PUBLIC PARKING

PARK & RIDE to Northstar, Squaw Valley and Winter Recreation

TART is taking several precautions to keep passengers and employees safe. Visit TahoeTruckeeTransit.com for details.

Schedule times vary. Visit TahoeTruckeeTransit.com for detailed schedules, more transit options, and Covid-19 information.

MASK UP. ADVENTURE OUT..

TahoeTruckeeTransit.com – Text “TART” to 24587 Take the North Lake Tahoe Express: Daily airport shuttle from 5:30am–midnight. NorthLakeTahoeExpress.com | (833) 709-8080

fun. unique. everywhere.

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in this issue

Volume 40 | Issue 3

16

TM

MARCH 10-APRIL 6, 2021

8

Winnemucca Lake

10

Historic 1952 Storms

15

Decisions on Snowmobile Use

16

GET OUTSIDE

Sightseeing 6 7

Lake Tahoe Facts Ice Skating & Tubing

11

Winter Paths

12

Snow Trails

14

FUN & GAMES

Horoscope & Crossword

19

THE MAKERS

Nina Pivirotto 20 The Arts 20 THE LINEUP

Local Anthology

21

EAT & DRINK

Lemons 22 Lemon Hummus

23

Wines of Sicily

24

Cherry Lemon Drop

25

bears & wildlife BEAR EMERGENCIES BEAR League (530) 525-7297 (24 hours) | savebears.org A bear walking nearby or through your yard is not an emergency unless it is trying to enter your home or car.

INJURED ANIMALS Lake Tahoe Wildlife Center, South Shore (530) 577-2273 | ltwc.org The Wildlife Shelter, North Shore (866) 307-4216

E-NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBE

to our e-newsletter at TheTahoeWeekly.com

on the cover Anna Ganong-Krawczuk enjoys snowshoeing on Donner Summit.

Photography by Alyssa Ganong

20

TAHOE WEEKLY CELEBRATES 39TH ANNIVERSARY FROM THE PUBLISHER

The last year of pandemic pandemonium has left all of our lives turned upside down, including for us at the Tahoe Weekly. So much so, in fact, that I failed to recognize our 39th anniversary in our February edition. The last year has brought a lot of ups and downs that I would have never guessed possible when we celebrated our 38th anniversary in 2020. Visit issuu.com/TheTahoeWeekly if you want to read our first edition from Feb. 18, 1982.

One of the things I always like to celebrate on our anniversaries are the positive changes and this year that’s the wonderful and amazing staff and contributors at our small, local business – Anne Artoux, Alyssa Ganong, Priya Hutner, Sean McAlindin, Katrina Veit, Tim Hauserman, Kayla Anderson, Mark McLaughlin, Lou Phillips, Geolyn Carvin, Michelle Allen and Justeen Ferguson. All of them have been amazing handling changes to our business, our magazine and our working environment (we’ve gone to permanent remote working during the pandemic). I appreciate each of them deeply and am blessed to work with such amazing people. Thank you.

A new contributor joining Tahoe Weekly with this edition is South Lake Tahoe resident Brenda Simpkins. Brenda is the creator and author of “Cocktails on Brenda’s Balcony,” a project born out of the pandemic shutdown. Brenda will now be sharing her yummy creations with our readers in each edition featuring recipes from her first book (she’s already at work on her second book). Try Brenda’s Cherry Lemon Drop in our Eat & Drink section in this edition, which will pair nicely with Food Editor Priya Hutner’s Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing.

The pandemic and a summer filled with wildfires caused delays on many fronts, including delaying Forest Service districts in the Tahoe Sierra from releasing plans for OSVs (over-snow vehicles) like snowmobiles and snowcats. Sean McAlindin has been covering this public access issue for many years and reports in this edition that plans for several of our Forest Service districts are near completion. Read more in his feature “Forest Service nears decisions on snowmobile use.”

For those that read every edition of Tahoe Weekly, you’ll notice that our features since the shutdown last March have focused on under-the-radar and less-crowded outings to enjoy. We’ve stayed away from writing about more popular locations and focused on trying to “spread people around,” as I often tell the writers in response to our massive tourist influx in the last year.

In this edition, Tim Hauserman heads snowshoeing to Carson Pass and the beauty of Winnemucca Lake while Priya Hutner shares some of her favorite spots off-the-beaten-path to cross-country ski and snowshoe.

Remembering Clint Peetz I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Clint Peetz, owner of Fat Cat and Chub’s Subs, in early March. Clint cared deeply for the Tahoe community and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need and supported many local nonprofits. I will always cherish memories of Clint’s large smile and big hugs whenever I saw him. Clint leaves behind a wife, two small children, co-workers and many, many friends. A GoFundMe fundraising campaign has been set up to aid his family. n

Alyssa Keys

Nordic Skiing & Snowshoe Trails

Travis Alley

FEATURES

P.O. Box 154 | Tahoe Vista, CA 96145 (530) 546-5995 | f (530) 546-8113 TheTahoeWeekly.com Facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly @TheTahoeWeekly

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

making it happen Publisher & Editor In Chief Katherine E. Hill publisher@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 102 Sales & Marketing Manager Anne Artoux anne@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 110 Art Director Alyssa Ganong production@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 106 Ad Production graphics@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 101 Entertainment Editor Sean McAlindin entertainment@tahoethisweek.com Food & Well Being Editor Priya Hutner priya@tahoethisweek.com Family Editor Michelle Allen michelle@tahoethisweek.com Copy Editor Katrina Veit Contributing Writers John Dee, Barbara Keck, Bruce Ajari, Mark McLaughlin, David “Smitty” Smith, Priya Hutner, Katrina Veit, Kayla Anderson, Lou Phillips, Sean McAlindin, Tim Hauserman, Alex Green, Lisa Michelle, Cam Schilling, Alex Silgalis

TAHOE WEEKLY is published weekly throughout the summer and biweekly the rest of the year, with occassional extra issues at holiday times by Range of Light Media Group, Inc. Look for new issues on Wednesdays. Subscribe to the free digital edition at issuu.com/TheTahoeWeekly. Visit TheTahoeWeekly.com.

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

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LAKE LEVEL Lake Tahoe Natural rim 6,223’

Readings taken on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 ELEVATION :

RESERVOIR CAPACITY

6,225.58 |

IN 2020:

C ACITY CITY:: 40 CIT 0,870 ,8 BOCA 12,362 CAPA

Eagle Rock

West Shore

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

Explore Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe

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

Fannette Island

Emerald Bay

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

Heavenly

South Lake Tahoe

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

Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

Find more places to explore

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

North Tahoe Arts Center

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

Tahoe City

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

Tahoe Art League Gallery

South Lake Tahoe

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

Tahoe City

North Shore

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

Tallac Historic Site West Shore

Truckee River C ACITY CAPA CITY:: 40 CIT 0,870 ,8 BOCA 12,362 |

South Lake Tahoe

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

FOLLOW US ONLINE

Truckee

DELIVERING THE FUN SINCE 1982 E-newsletter: subscribe at TheTahoeWeekly.com @TheTahoeWeekly facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly TheTahoeWeekly.com issuu.com/TheTahoeWeekly 6

405

IN 2020:

Measured in Cubic Feet Per Second (CFS)

CAPACITY: C 226,500

6,227.29

225

200,000 AF

6,225.58 | 175

150,000 AF

125

FLOW AT FARAD

TROA.NET

Measured in Acre Feet (AF)

Lake Tahoe Museum

South Lake Tahoe

Vikingsholm Castle

Tahoe City

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

MUSEUMS Donner Memorial Visitor Center

Truckee

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

Donner Summit Historical Society

Soda Springs

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

Gatekeeper’s Museum

225

200,000 AF

175

Old Jail Museum CLOSED Emerald Bay

Parking fee | Tours in summer only (530) 541-3030 | (530) 525-9529 ADA parks.ca.gov or vikingsholm.com Tour the grounds of Vikingsholm Castle, see Eagle Falls and Fannette Island (the Lake’s only island), home to an old Tea House, and explore snowshoeing trails. TART

Watson Cabin CLOSED

150,000 AF

50

CAPACITY: 29,840 2 PROSSER 11,061| truckee.com truckeehistory.org (530) 541-5458 | laketahoemuseum.org The historic town of Truckee was settled Features Washoe artifacts and exhibits 5 DONNER 4,690 CCAPACITY: 9,500 in 1863, and grew quickly as a stagecoach on early industry and settlers. South Tahoe stop and route for the CentralCCAPACITY: Pacific 18,300 Railroad.

INDEPENDENCE 1,3763 During these early days, many of Truckee’s Museum of Truckee History Truckee CAPACITY: A 20,400 0 MARTIS 1,052 and historical homes buildings were built inThurs.-Mon. | (530) 582-0893 | truckeehistory.org cluding The Truckee Hotel (1868) and the Capitol Building (1868). Stop by the Depot for a walking Housed in the original Depot, built in 1901. Exhi| FLOW FARAD 405 Measured in Cubic Feet Per Second (CFS) TROA.NET Truckee River tour of historic downtown.

PaidAT parking downbits cover different eras in Truckee history.

TART town. TART

Tahoe City

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

KidZone Children’s Museum CLOSED

NO. 1 FOR OUTDOORS & RECREATION, FAMILY FUN, LIVE MUSIC, EVENTS, ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS, FOOD & WINE

Readings taken on Tuesday, March 9, 2021

ELEVATION :

125

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

RESERVOIR CAPACITY

100,000 AF

Donner Summit

North Shore

CAPACITY: 18,300 C

LAKE LEVEL A 20,400 0 MARTIS 1,052 CAPACITY: Lake Tahoe Natural rim 6,223’ STAMPEDE 19,9661

Kings Beach

Cross-country skiing on the groomed trails at Plumas-Eureka State Park in the Lost Sierra with Michelle Allen. | Katherine E. Hill

75

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

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

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

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

CAPACITY: 9,500 C 5

INDEPENDENCE 1,3763

Olympic Valley

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

Truckee

CAPACITY: 29,840 2

50

High Camp

25

East Shore

25

Cave Rock

DONNER 4,690

CAPACITY: C 226,500

100,000 AF

ATTRACTIONS

PROSSER 11,061

Measured in Acre Feet (AF)

75

SIGHTSEEING

STAMPEDE 19,9661

6,227.29

Truckee

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

Truckee

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

Olympic Museum

Olympic Valley

(800) 403-0206 | squawalpine.com Squaw Valley, host of the VIII Winter Olympic Games in 1960, celebrates its Olympic History with the symbolic Tower of Nations and Olympic Flame at the entrance to the valley. The Olympic Museum at High Camp features historic memorabilia and photographs. TART

Tahoe Science Center CLOSED

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

Truckee Railroad Museum

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

Incline Village 969 Tahoe Blvd. (800) 468-2463 Stateline 169 Hwy. 50 (775) 588-4591 Tahoe City 100 N. Lake Blvd. (530) 581-6900 Truckee 10065 Donner Pass Rd. (Depot) (530) 587-8808 U.S. Forest Service | Incline Village 855 Alder Ave. (775) 831-0914 (Wed.-Fri.)

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

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

10811 Stockrest Springs Rd. (530) 587-3558

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

Truckee

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

U.S. Forest Service | Truckee

TRANSIT

Incline Village

National Forest access info fs.fed.us/r5/webmaps/RecreationSiteStatus

March 10-April 6, 2021

lake tahoe facts |

CLAIR TAPPAAN

Donner Summit

Truckee Donner Lake

TRUCKEE AIRPORT

MT. ROSE

RENO-TAHOE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

DONNER MEMORIAL STATE PARK

DONNER SKI RANCH

ROYAL GORGE

SKY TAVERN

h Ta

SUGAR BOWL

ra Rim T

SQUAW VALLEY SQUAW CREEK ALPINE MEADOWS

Tahoe Vista

TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK

Ta h o e R i m

CASINOS

Dollar Hill

Lake

Spooner Lake

Tahoe

l ai

Eagle Rock

Carson City

NEVADA NORDIC

East Shore

o Ta h m Tr a i l

SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK

Meeks Bay

Cave Rock

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

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

Zephyr Cove

Size: 22 miles long, 12 miles wide

CA

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

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

Emerald Bay Eagle Lake

Average Water Temperature: 42.1˚F

Cascade Lake

Average Surface Water Temperature: 51.9˚F

Fannette Island

South Lake Tahoe

South Shore Ta h oe

R i m Tr ail

Average Snowfall: 409 inches

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

Stateline HEAVENLY

CAMP RICHARDSON

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

Fallen Leaf Lake

Meyers

Shoreline: 72 miles

BIJOU PARK / LAKE TAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

LAKE TAHOE AIRPORT

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

FREEL PEAK

ECHO LAKES

Permanent Population: 66,000

Volume: 39 trillion gallons

Natural rim: 6,223’

e Ri

Tahoma

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

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

Glenbrook

Homewood

HOMEWOOD

Learn about the natural history of the Tahoe Sierra

Maximum depth: 1,645 feet

Marlette Lake

NV

GRANKLIBAKKEN

West Shore

Average depth: 1,000 feet

DEEPEST POINT

TAHOE CROSS COUNTRY

Tahoe City

SNO-PARKS

Lake Clarity: 2018: 70.9 feet avg. depth.

1968: First recorded at 102.4 feet

Crystal Bay

Kings Beach

Carnelian Bay

Sunnyside Tr

DIAMOND PEAK

Incline Village

NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK

Olympic Valley

CROSS-COUNTRY SKI AREAS

North Shore

NORTHSTAR

Truckee River

DOWNHILL SKI AREAS

oe

N

WEST EAST SOUTH

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

il

SODA SPRINGS

Reno & Sparks

TAHOE DONNER

AUBURN SKI TRAINING CENTER BOREAL

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

Number of Visitors: 15 million annually Kirkwood

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

HOPE VALLEY

Hope

Markleeville Valley

Why is the lake blue?

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

KIRKWOOD

7

TheTahoeWeekly.com

GET outside

the outdoors | recreation | events | mountain life

Far from the crowds N O R D I C S K I I N G & S N OW S H O E T R A I LS O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H S TO RY & P H OTO S BY P R I YA H UT N E R

I

mmersing oneself in the stillness of the woods with only the sound of skis gliding atop the snow or the soft stepping of snowshoes is a magical experience.

Cross-country skiing has always been popular in the region, with some of the best cross-country resorts in the nation (and the most in one region), but off-piste cross-country skiing, or skiing off the trails, has been gaining in popularity, particularly during the pandemic.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Sking to Stampede on a wintery

Photo Credit | Photographer?

day; Priya skis on shore of Donner Lake; Ski break at Stampede on a snowy day.

Exploring trails that are off the beaten path is a breathtaking experience, especially after a fresh snowfall, and offers the chance to explore less populated areas in the Tahoe Sierra.

Numerous areas offer groomed and ungroomed trails that offer free access to skiers and snowshoers throughout the region.

TRAILS TO EXPLORE

OFF-PISTE GEAR

Exploring trails that are off the beaten path is a breathtaking experience, especially after a fresh snowfall, and offers the chance to explore less populated areas in the Tahoe Sierra.

East Shore Sand Harbor State Park Spooner Lake State Park

North Shore North Tahoe Regional Park Tahoe City Winter Sports Park

South Lake Tahoe & beyond Angora Lake Grover Hot Springs State Park Fallen Leaf Lake Hope Valley Winnemucca Lake (read the feature in this edition)

Truckee & beyond Coldstream Canyon Donner Memorial State Park Plumas-Eureka State Park Russell Valley Stampede Reservoir

West Shore Blackwood Canyon Page Meadows Sugar Pine Point State Park Ward Creek State Park 8

South Lake Tahoe’s Felix Brosch, a Forest Bathing guide, says that he finds peace snowshoeing in places like Grover Hot Springs State Park and the Fallen Leaf Lake area and often takes to the shore of Lake Tahoe.

Other great spots to look for adventures from Hope Valley to the Lost Sierra include Ward Creek, Blackwood Canyon and Page Meadows along the West Shore. Heading north toward Sierraville, there are several places to ski and snowshoe off Highway 89. Turn onto Hobart Mills Road, and ski or snowshoe the Emigrant Trail. If you drive down Hobart Mills Road, there are places in and around the meadow that are gorgeous to ski. It’s sunny and can be warm even on a cold day.

I recently went out for a cross-country ski with Alyssa Ganong, Art Director for Tahoe Weekly. We parked across the street from Hobart Mills Road of Highway 89 and skied along Prosser Creek. It was a stunning adventure and not without some small hills and ravines. The woods and babbling creek were a beautiful backdrop for this exhilarating outing.

Sagehen Field Creek Station is another area to explore on skis or snowshoe with

miles of lovely wooded areas that are both groomed and ungroomed off Highway 89. The Prosser campground area also had groomed trails that lead to the reservoir and there’s is a beautiful 4-mile loop. It’s good to get there early as there tend to be more people around on the weekends, but the further you travel, the fewer people there are.

Many state parks also offer trails for cross-country skiing (groomed and ungroomed) and snowshoeing crosscountry for only a parking fee. There are 12 miles of marked off-piste ski trails at Sugar Pine State Park. Donner Memorial State Park grooms a nice easy trail that accommodates skate skiing and classic skiing. And if you head through the park, there are off-piste areas to enjoy. You can also ski up into the Coldstream Canyon area. And like many trails, the further out you’re willing to go, the fewer people there are. The Castle Peak area is a haven for intermediate cross-country skiing.

Several golf courses also offer crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing in the winter including the Incline Village Championship Golf Course and the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park at the Tahoe City Golf Course.

If you are interested in skiing off-piste, purchase skis with scales and metal edges.

Skis vary in size. Some fit in the tracks or there are wider skis available. I purchased a pair of Fischer S-bound 98s, a wider ski, and Rossingnal back-country boots for this season. I spent time looking for a ski that would enable me to play in the woods, take me off the trail and off the groomers.

I reached out to Jared Manninen, an avid cross-country skier from South Lake Tahoe, who helped me choose the right skis. Manninen hosts a cross-country ski vlog on his website, tahoetrailguide.com.

Both the vlog and website offer great cross-country ski and snowshoe tips and information.

BE PREPARED Be aware of conditions, weather and terrain before heading out on your own.

Always check avalanche conditions at Sierra Avalanche Center, as well.

If you are going out alone, make sure to tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Make sure you have appropriate clothing and gear. Layers work best. Wear waterproof boots for snowshoeing with warm wool socks. Don’t

Read our annual Nordic Ski & Snowshoe Guide at TheTahoeWeekly.com forget to bring gloves. Bring a backpack with water for hydration and snacks. When parking, do not block traffic or U.S. Forest Service gates. And, please don’t litter.

Remember to pack out all trash, including doggie bags. 

March 10-April 6, 2021 GET OUTSIDE

Tahoe

DOWNHILL SKI GUIDE

20th annual

downhill ski guide

Find a full

winter 2020-21

BY K AT H E R I N E E .

HILL

Courtesy Squaw Valley Alpine

Meadows

EVENT CALENDAR

at TheTahoeWeekly.com Events are subject to change & cancellation; always check in advance for current schedules.

Ski resorts will be open biathlon

scenic gondola

nordic skiing

cat skiing

childcare

back-country access

tubing & sledding

military discount

Sledding, snow trail access expanded

ice skating

fat tire biking

mini snowmobiling

roller coaster

snow shoeing

TheTahoeWeekly.com Check out the 2020-21 Tahoe Downhill Ski & Nordic Ski guides

face masks required

Highway Patrol, according to a press from the Truckee Donner Land Trust.

Courtesy Truckee Donner Land Trust

The Wendin Way Trailhead at the base of Johnson Canyon above Donner Lake is now being plowed for winter recreation access, thanks to Caltrans and California

night skiing

utv tours

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

The trailhead is a great option for those looking for a sledding hill and offers access to more back-country terrain for skiers, snowboarders and snowshoers.

The slopes of the canyon and terrain beyond are avalanche terrain and should only be used by visitors with proper avalanche education and equipment. Visit sierraavalanchecenter.org for avalanche conditions.

Take the Donner Lake Exit on Interstate 80, about halfway between Donner Summit and Truckee. At the bottom of the off ramp, head North (uphill) about 300 yards to the trailhead where there is a large parking area and kiosks with a map of the area and background information.

Pack out all trash including dog waste. | truckeedonnerlandtrust.org

Trail access for e-bikes under review

The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is seeking comments on the Proposed Action for the Basin Wide Trails Analysis Project. The purpose of this project is to update the trail and road system map to better meet the current need for e-bike access on National Forest lands, while protecting and maintaining highly valued scenery and natural resources.

The LTBMU propose altering its trail system map to allow Class 1 e-bikes on specific trails and clarifying trails where motorized access is permitted, according to a press release. Additionally, the District proposes upgrading road and trail crossings over streams and wet areas, installing interpretive and directional signs, and upgrading trailhead parking areas.

To review the project, visit https://go.usa.gov/xmgxT. Public comment is being accepted until March 28 and is being accepted online or by mail; details on project website.

There will be a virtual public meeting on March 10 from 05:30 to 7:30 p.m. Register https://bit.ly/3bng22O.

BE A DRIVING FORCE

FOR TAHOE

BUY OR RENEW A TAHOE LICENSE PLATE. 96% of the fees generated from license plates help fund projects that improve the Tahoe environment.

So, you can play in some deep powder without having to dig deep to make a difference. Visit TAHOEPLATES.ORG.

A simple way to make Tahoe better.

9

TheTahoeWeekly.com

W I N T E R WO N D E RS O F

The view south along the Pacific Crest from Andesite Peak.

WINNEMUCCA LAKE STO RY BY T I M H AU S E R M A N | P HOTO S BY JOYC E C H A M B E RS

While I love

flowing over the snow on cross-country skis, there is something especially relaxing about the slower pace of a day touring the wilderness on snowshoes. Especially, if that day is spent at one of the prettiest places in the Sierra: Carson Pass. From the Pacific Crest Trailhead at 8,600 feet in elevation, it’s a 4-mile round trip jaunt with a couple hundred feet of climbing to the edge of frozen Winnemucca Lake.

We could see the wide frozen expanse of Winnemucca Lake, tucked up tight against the massive rock that is Round Top peak just to our south. To the west, frozen Caples Lake. In the near distant northeast, Freel Peak, Tahoe’s highest peak, sits on the same ridge as Job’s

ABOVE: Round Top.

Peak and Job’s Sister.

We picked a gorgeous midweek day to make the trip from the North Shore to Carson Pass. The journey through Hope Valley and the climb to the Sierra divide at the pass is almost as much fun as getting out of the car and heading onto the snow.

Carson Pass is just shy of 9 miles west of the intersection of Highways 89 and 88. As you crest, the pass, the parking lot and summer information center appears immediately on your left. If you have a Sno-Park season pass you are all good. If not, you need to go online ahead of time and purchase one.

They are just $6.75. The trailhead is first-come, firstserved, and certainly on a busy weekend it will fill up, so don’t dilly-dally.

The route to Winnemucca Lake begins by somewhat following the Pacific Crest Trail. But since a ton of snow sits on the trail, you are never really sure whether you are on the trail or not, but as Bill Murray says in the movie “Meatballs”, “It just doesn’t matter.” We followed the clearly packed track that lots of other snowshoers had created, and also brought Gaia mapping software just in case.

Read about Winnemucca Lake’s summer explosion of wildflowers at at TheTahoeWeekly.com If it recently snowed and no one else has packed down the trail, be sure to bring mapping software and head pretty straight south toward Round Top, the dominant feature that will appear anytime you emerge from the trees. Better yet, pick a nice day at least a few days after the most recent snows to enjoy the fruits of other snowshoers’ labors.

10

LEFT: Winnemucca Lake.

The first mile is through a scattered high altitude forest of juniper, western white pine, hemlock and lodgepole. If you like large and interesting trees this trip will provide. We encountered some of the largest and healthiest looking lodgepole I’ve seen, as well as some extraordinary junipers holding on to life in the rocky crags.

After about a mile, the route lifts away from the forest and into a wide open expanse of snowy goodness. To the east sits the rounded top of Elephant’s Back, mostly black as the snow has blown off. To the south, Round Top sites majestically above the snowy slope with the Three Sisters taking up the ridge to its right. Once we had climbed to the shore of Winnemucca Lake the views became sublime and we found a perfectly placed flat rock that made for a great lunch spot.

From here we could see the wide frozen expanse of Winnemucca Lake, tucked up tight against the massive rock that is Round Top peak just to our south.

To the west, frozen Caples Lake. In the near distant northeast, Freel Peak, Tahoe’s highest peak, sits on the same ridge as Job’s Peak and Job’s Sister. In the far distance, you just glimpse the ridges behind the northern end of far off Lake Tahoe. Speaking of Lake Tahoe, Red Lake Peak dominates the view just north of Highway 88. It is best known as the place John C. Fremont and his guide Kit Carson climbed and saw a distant mountain lake, becoming the first Europeans to see Lake Tahoe.

While enjoying the impossibly blue sky we watched a back-country skier descend down the steep bowl coming down from Round Top. Then about three-quarters of the way to the top the skier stopped and took a long break while we speculated whether he was Ok, but then realized, he must have just been enjoying lunch like we were, but with an even more spectacular view that most likely included Lake Tahoe, as well.

THE TRAIL 4-miles roundtrip | Moderate Sno-Park pass required; ohv.parks.ca.gov

Lunch ended as the afternoon wind arrived and the chill got us off our butts to head on out. We stopped at a viewpoint halfway back and pondered Round Top one last time. I’ve enjoyed this hike in the summer many times because of the prolific midsummer wildflower show it provides, but the vast expanse of deep snow tucked up against the Sierra crest peaks is just as spectacular.

From North Tahoe, it’s right at an hour and a half to Carson Pass. South Shore folks can be there in just 40 minutes. Don’t forget your parking permit.

If you are not a regular snowshoer, remember, snowshoe miles are slower and harder than hiking or cross-country skiing miles. Carson Pass is an area that gets a ton of snow making this section of Highway 88 one of the worst avalanche zones in California. The road frequently closes for snow removal, so don’t attempt this trip during or immediately after a snowstorm. Visit sierraavalanchecenter.org to check the avalanche forecast before visiting. 

March 10-April 6, 2021 GET OUTSIDE

Ice Skating & Tubing EXCLUSIVE CONTENT AT

TheTahoeWeekly.com Find more family-friendly activities to enjoy.

MASKS ARE REQUIRED & MOST LOCATIONS REQUIRE RESERVATIONS.

ICE SKATING

HANSEN’S RESORT

EDGEWOOD TAHOE

400-foot-long groomed tube run on Ski Run Blvd. First-come, first-served.

(530) 544-3361 | hansensresort.com

Open air rink. Rentals available. Open until April 18.

HEAVENLY VILLAGE

(530) 542-4230 | theshopsatheavenly.com Open air rink. South Tahoe

HEAVENLY

Courtesy The Mothership Classic

(888) 769-1924 | edgewoodtahoe.com

skiheavenly.com Tubing at top of gondola with four lanes. Opening TBD

KAHLE PARK

NORTHSTAR

(530) 562-1010 | northstarcalifornia.com Open air rink. Free access. TART

(775) 586-7271 | douglascountynv.gov Off Highway 207. Bring equipment. South Tahoe

SAWMILL POND

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

On Lake Tahoe Blvd. Bring equipment. South Tahoe

(530) 542-6262 | cityofslt.com Indoor facility open year-round. South Tahoe

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK (530) 583-1516 | wintersportspark.com

Blizzard Mountain offers two lift-accessible snow tubing lanes, snow play and sledding area. Opening TBD

Ice skating & rentals. Clubhouse. Closes March 14 for the season. TART

TAHOE SNOWMOBILE TUBING

TRUCKEE

Two locations at Tahoe Paradise & Stateline, Nev. Reserve online.

(530) 582-7720 | tdrpd.com

(530) 659-7453 | sierraattahoe.com

(530) 542-3294 | tahoesnowmobiles.com

At Truckee River Regional Park. Skate rentals, broomball leagues, ice dancing & hockey lessons. Skate rentals & season passes available. TART

TAYLOR CREEK

SLEDDING & TUBING

TUBETAHOE

(530) 543-2600

Highway 89, north of Camp Richardson Road. Bring equipment.* South Tahoe

(530) 600-2304 | tubetahoe.com

OPEN AS CONDITIONS PERMIT.

500 feet of machine-groomed tubing lanes in Meyers.

Equipment provided. South Tahoe

EAST SHORE

SPOONER LAKE

The Mothership Classic A First to Last Chair Fundraiser

The Mothership Classic, a pledge-driven event held each spring on one of the the world’s greatest chairlift, KT22 at Squaw Valley, returns this year in a hybrid format to benefit High Fives Foundation.

Participants begin by gathering pledges and on the day of the event – March 28 each participant will challenge themselves to hot lap KT22 as many times as possible from first chair to last on skinny skis, retro snowboards, mono skis, snow blades, etc.

TRUCKEE & BEYOND

(775) 831-0494

State park open for snow play. Bring equipment. Parking fee.

BOREAL MOUNTAIN rideboreal.com

CARSON PASS

Tubing open to everyone 42” and taller; smaller children are limited to snow play area only. Personal sleds not permitted.

Night sessions available. Reserve online.

Highway 88 near Carson Pass. Bring equipment.*

DONNER SKI RANCH

HOPE VALLEY

Tubing hills with moving carpet.

HOPE VALLEY AREA

(209) 295-4251

(775) 882-2766

donnerskiranch.com

Highway 88 at Blue Lakes Road. Bring equipment.*

DONNER SUMMIT

MEISS MEADOW

South side of I-80, Castle Peak exit. Bring equipment.*

(209) 295-4251

Highway 88 near Carson Pass. Bring equipment.*

(530) 587-3558

KINGVALE RESORT

(530) 427-5090 | kingvaleresort.com

INCLINE VILLAGE

Snow park open Friday-Monday. Bring sleds. Plastic sleds available to buy. Tubes not allowed. Parking & snow park fee, cash only.

Snow Play Area on Fairway Blvd., next to the Chateau, on the driving range. Bring equipment.

NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA

MOUNT ROSE

Closed for the 2020-21 season. TART

NORTH SHORE

Near the Mount Rose summit, enjoy sledding in Tahoe Meadows off Highway 431. Bring equipment.

NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK

(530) 546-0605 | northtahoeparks.com End of National Avenue off Hwy 28. Rentals not available this season. TART

TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK (530) 583-1516 | wintersportspark.com

Sledding & cross-country trails. Rentals available. Clubhouse. Reserve online. TART

Nostalgic ski attire is encouraged. Awards are given out for: Most Laps, Most Money Raised, Best Costume and more. Participants may also opt to fundraise virtually. | Details mothershipclassic.com

northstarcalifornia.com

SODA SPRINGS

skisodasprings.com Mountain Adventure offers kids tubing carousel, all-age tubing, Snow Jeep rides, Start Park, snow play area and mini snowmobiles. Reserve online.

TAHOE DONNER

(530) 587-9437 | tahoedonner.com At Trout Creek Recreation Ctr. No personal sleds. Reserve online.

YUBA PASS

(530) 994-3401 Highway 49 at Yuba Pass. Bring equipment.*

OLYMPIC VALLEY

SQUAW VALLEY

(530) 452-4511 | squawalpine.com

WEST SHORE

Tubing area. TART

BLACKWOOD CANYON

SQUAW VALLEY PARK placer.ca.gov

Snowplay area off Hwy. 89, 3 miles south of Tahoe City.

Bring equipment.*

Free snowplay area. Free parking to access cleared walking paths in Olympic Valley to Tahoe City. Bring equipment. TART

GRANLIBAKKEN

(530) 543-2600

(530) 581-7533 | granlibakken.com Machine-groomed snow play area; no tubes or toboggans allowed. All ages. Reserve online.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

ADVENTURE MOUNTAIN

(530) 659-7217 | adventuremountaintahoe.com

HOMEWOOD ADVENTURE CENTER

On top of Echo Summit with machine-groomed sledding, tubing & snowplay. First-come, first-served.

(530) 525-2992 | skihomewood.com

At Homewood Mountain Resort with Magic Carpet. Reserve online.

ECHO LAKE

TAHOE CITY

(530) 644-2324 Highway 50 at Echo Lake Road. Bring equipment.*

Gentle slope on Highway 89 South, one-eighth mile south of the wye. Bring equipment. TART

ALL ACTIVITIES ARE WEATHER DEPENDENT. * Sno-park permits required. Go to ohv.parks.ca.gov/snoparks or find locations at (916) 324-1222.

BUS & SHUTTLE SCHEDULES

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

11

TheTahoeWeekly.com

PLOWED PATH

BIKES OK

Distancing guidelines remain in place & masks are required in California and Nevada.

PAVED MULTIUSE TRAILS CHECK CONDITIONS AT TAHOEBIKE.ORG.

• Keep dogs leashed • Pedestrians must yield to bikes • Don’t stop on the trail; move to the side • E-bikes allowed on most paths; check in advance • Cyclists call out when passing pedestrians • Limited service in winter. Pack out all trash, including dog waste bags.

OLYMPIC VALLEY

OLYMPIC VALLEY Easy | 4 miles RT | tcpud.org A 2-mile trail runs beside Squaw Valley Road to the ski area from the Squaw Valley condos to Victoria Road, with views of the meadow and surrounding peaks. Public parking at Squaw Valley Park or Village at Squaw. Electric assist OK. TART SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

AL TAHOE BOULEVARD Easy | 3.2 miles RT Connections Lake Tahoe Boulevard (Highway 50) and Pioneer Trail with access to Lake Tahoe Community College.

EAST SHORE

EAST SHORE TRAIL Easy-moderate | 6 miles RT | tahoefund.org Runs along Lake Tahoe and connects to Hwy. 28 from south end of Incline Village, Nev., to Sand Harbor State Park. Parking near Ponderosa Ranch Road. Electric assist OK. Paid parking. TART NORTH SHORE

CAMP RICHARDSON BIKE PATH Easy | 6 miles RT The trail parallels State Route 89 (Emerald Bay Road) for more than 3 miles, offering access to a number of local historic and recreational amenities. Limited parking.

Watch the short film “A Trail for Everyone” on YouTube from Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship about the Connected Communities project to establish the Lost Sierra Route, which would link 15 California mountain communities through trails.

The film that sheds light on the economic Watch “A Trail for Everyone” hardships in the Lost Sierra and the at TheTahoeWeekly.com movement that the Stewardship is creating to support these communities and help them thrive through multiuse recreation.

This is the story of small businesses, of trail builders, of families and of people coming together to make the 300-mile multi-use, proposed Lost Sierra Route become reality. | sierratrails.org

SAWMILL TO MEYERS

INCLINE VILLAGE Easy | 7.4 miles RT | washoecounty.us Walking path runs along Hwy. 28 through Incline Village.

Access to shopping and parks. Paved between both intersections of Southwood Blvd. Boot packed between east intersection of Southwood Blvd. and Country Club Drive. TART

LAKESHORE BOULEVARD

Easy | 7 miles RT Section cleared along Sawmill Road starting at Lake Tahoe Boulevard then connects to run along Highway 89 to Meyers ending at Luther Pass Road.

SIERRA BOULEVARD Easy | 1.2 miles RT Connects from Lake Tahoe Boulevard to Barbara Avenue.

Easy | 5 miles RT | washoecounty.us Runs along Lake Tahoe Boulevard and connects to Hwy. 28 at each end of Incline Village. Park at Preston Field on Hwy. 28. Electric assist OK. TART

SKI RUN BOULEVARD

NATIONAL AVENUE

Easy | 7 miles RT | cityofslt.us Follow the bike trail along South Shore, with sections along Lakeview Commons, Reagan Beach and playgrounds. Public parking at Parks and Recreation lot on Rufus Allen Boulevard.

Easy | 1.8 miles RT Starts on shore of Lake Tahoe at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area and continues up National Avenue past Grey Lane.

Parking at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. TART

PINE DROP TRAIL Easy | 3 miles RT | northtahoeparks.com Located at North Tahoe Regional Park the trail connects to to Pinedrop Lane off Highway 267. Parking fee.

TAHOE CITY TO CARNELIAN BAY Easy-moderate | 8+ miles RT | tcpud.org First 2.5 miles mostly level with a half-mile climb up Dollar Hill. Cross Highway 28 to access 2.2-mile section to Fulton Crescent above Carnelian Bay. Public parking at 64 Acres, Commons Beach, Jackpine and Grove Street. Electric assist OK. Section from Dollar Hill to Fulton Crescent bootpacked only. TART

TRUCKEE RIVER CANYON Easy | 9+ miles RT | tcpud.org 4.5 miles from the Tahoe City wye to Alpine Meadows Road, with trails continuing to Olympic Valley. The trail is scenic, separate from the highway, and is mostly flat terrain with a few short, gentle grades with trout fishing, river rafting and picnicking along the way. Connects with Squaw Valley Road or continue to Truckee. Public parking at 64 Acres and Squaw Valley Park at Squaw Valley Road. Electric assist OK. TART

Easy | 1.2 miles RT Connects from Lake Tahoe Boulevard to Pioneer Trail.

SOUTH SHORE BIKE PATH

TRUCKEE

DONNER PASS ROAD Easy | 5.4 miles RT Runs through the heart of the town of Truckee from the west end to historic downtown Truckee.

DONNER PASS ROAD TO MOUSEHOLE Easy | 1.8 miles RT Runs along Highway 89 connecting Donner Pass Road to the Mousehole.

JOEGER DRIVE Easy | 1.2 miles RT Connects from Soaring Way and runs along Joeger Drive to River View Sports Park.

STEVENS LANE TO ALDER DRIVE Easy | 2 miles RT Runs from Stevens Lane along Donner Pass Road, turns down Rue Ivy to connect to Alder Drive. Park at U.S. Forest Service office on Stevens Lane.

TROUT CREEK TRAIL Moderate | 3 miles RT Wooded path from Trout Creek Park (paid parking) in downtown Truckee to Northwoods Boulevard (parking free).

WEST SHORE

TAHOE CITY TO MEEKS BAY Moderate | 25+ miles RT | tcpud.org Mostly separate from the highway, the trail includes a few miles of highway shoulder and residential streets.

Terrain is varied with a few steep sections. Access to picnicking, beaches and playgrounds. Public parking at 64 Acres. Electric assist OK. Boot-packed only starting at Timberland. TART

TRUCKEE LEGACY TRAIL Easy | 10 miles RT | tdrpd.org Stretches from downtown Truckee to Truckee River Regional Park, River View Sports Park and Glenshire.

Park at either park or East River Street. Electric assist OK. TART

BUS & SHUTTLE SCHEDULES

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

12

Lost Sierra trail film released

Rocking Stone eyed for

historic designation A virtual hearing to consider the TruckeeVeterans Memorial Building and Rocking Stone Tower for the National Register of Historic Places will be held on April 30 at 9 a.m. The hearing is part of a years-long process by the Truckee-Donner Historical Society to gain the designation.

Truckee Thursdays

returns this summer

The popular Truckee Thursdays street festival will return in summer 2021 with dates TBA, according to the Truckee Downtown Merchants Association. The event transforms Historic Downtown Truckee into a street fair featuring local and regional artisans, food trucks, a beer garden and live music in a COVID-safe environment. | historictruckee.com Courtesy Tahoe Environmental Research Ctr

BOOT-PACKED PATH

Courtesy Truckee-Donner Historical Society

DOGS OK

Courtesy Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship

Winter Paved Walking Paths

The hearing is being held by the California State Historical Resources Commission, which must grant its nomination to be considered for the national register.

Tahoe video channel educates

The Historical Society is seeking the public’s help and asks people to submit written comments and to comment during the hearing. Find details and a sample letter online. | truckeehistory.org

Learn about topics impacting the environment in and around Lake Tahoe, take virtual tours of the Tahoe Science Center, enjoy the 2020 virtual Gardening Series and much more on the Tahoe Environmental Research Center’s YouTube Channel. | UC Davis Tahoe on YouTube

March 10-April 6, 2021 GET OUTSIDE

Tahoe XC expansion project was approved by the TCPUD Board of Directors in late February. The project for the nonprofit cross-country ski area includes relocating the base area from its current location to property next to the North Tahoe Middle & High Schools and reconstructing the historic Schilling Lodge on the property to serve as the new main lodge with rentals, a cafe, lockers and community meeting areas. A capital fundraising campaign will begin in the near future to fund the project. | theschillinglodge.com, tahoexc.org

Join Arbor Day Tree Hunt The Sierra State Parks Foundation announces the 2021 Arbor Day Tree Hunt from March 19 to April 23 to engage the community and encourage outdoor exploration and knowledge of local tree species.

Each week of the contest, the Foundation will highlight a different tree native to Lake Tahoe online. Participants are asked to find that week’s highlighted tree, photograph themselves with it, and then post the selfie on social media tagging @sierrastateparksfoundation. Each tree selfie will be one entry toward the Arbor Day raffle on April 23. | Details sierrastateparks.org

Take

Courtesy TRPA

Courtesy TRPA

Tahoe XC lodge, expansion OK’d

Invasive mussels found in aquarium product Zebra mussels that could significantly damage the ecology of Lake Tahoe have been discovered in moss ball products for sale online and in pet stores across the U.S. and are being pulled from shelves, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency announced in a press release.

TRPA aquatic invasive species managers have contacted pet stores in the Tahoe region and all stores share the concern and are voluntarily taking recommended steps, according to TRPA. The agency is coordinating with the western wide “Don’t Let It Loose” program by providing outreach materials and fish bags with imprinted info to pet stores in the Tahoe region.

Current information indicates the moss balls can be sold in packaging and can also be placed in tanks with fish for sale together. Buyers should beware of online moss ball sales, as well. The discovery was made at a pet store in Washington.

Visit The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service webpage for more information, recommended disposal methods and how to report sightings at fws.gov. | trpa.gov

Join B4BC

fundraiser

B4BC is holding its winter fundraiser, Love Your Peaks, a virtual breast cancer prevention fundraising campaign through April 14 at resorts nationwide. Register a team or join an existing team to support Boarding 4 Breast Cancer’s mission.

B4BC is also hosting a social media contest through April 14. Tag photos and videos #loveyourpeaks in your best pink gear @b4bc and @sunbum. | Details b4bc.org/loveyourpeaks

WEEKEND GROUP LESSON PACKAGES TICKET. RENTAL. LESSON. ONE AWESOME RATE.

back-country

skier survey

The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and Montana State University are collaborating on a survey of backcountry skiers and snowboarders to learn if, and how, back country use has changed during the pandemic.

The survey takes about 10 minutes and will be used for scientific research. Participants in the survey will also be entered into a prize drawing. | Survey med.unr.edu/skistudyone entry toward the Arbor Day raffle on April 23. | Details sierrastateparks.org

THE BEST PLACE TO BEGIN Group Lessons Start at $145 for Kids 7-12, $169 for Ages 13+

Includes Lift Ticket, Rental Gear + Two-Hour Lesson With a Certified and Professional Instructor

SKIING SAFELY THIS SEASON Fun + Small Group Lessons

Uncrowded Slopes Pre-Purchase Tickets, Rentals + Lessons Masks + Physical Distancing Required

RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/DOWNHILL 13

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Explore more snow trails at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on the Winter tab under the Get Outside menu. See the Events calendar for guided snowshoe treks.

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CABIN CREEK TRAIL Easy to moderate

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Marked route follows old logging roads and Cabin Creek Road for 3 to 6 miles. The terrain has gentle, rolling slopes.

Cabin Creek Road south of Truckee on Highway 89. The unmarked trailhead is 1 mile from the highway. Limited parking is available in a road cut, when plowed.

DONNER MEMORIAL STATE PARK Easy | (530) 582-7892 or parks.ca.gov

The park is mostly flat and open year-round. Skiers can enjoy the forests and boulder fields, glide down to the lake and meander through the park. Unmarked, 9.6-km, skier-packed trail starting near the Emigrant Trail Museum.

For the more adventuresome, glide over the hills into Coldstream Canyon. Parking fee. TART

LITTLE TRUCKEE SUMMIT

Easy to advanced | (530) 994-3401 or fs.usda.gov Marked routes with 110 miles of groomed trails follow roads to Webber Lake and Yuba Pass, Rim and Ridge Loops, Bald Ridge Loop and Treasure Mountain, Pass Creek Loop, Independence Lake Loop, Meadow Lake Loop and Jackson Meadow. Trailhead at Jackson Meadow Road, 14 miles north of Truckee on Highway 89. Overnight camping OK in parking area. Heavy use.*

PETER GRUBB HUT & CASTLE PEAK

Moderate to advanced | clairtappaanlodge.com A marked Nordic ski trail begins at the Castle Peak/Boreal interchange on Donner Summit off Interstate 80, west of Truckee. Take the Castle Peak exit and follow it for one-quarter mile to the intersection for the trailhead to the north. Follow unmarked trail to Peter Grubb Hut. Overnight parking available at the Sno-Park*. For overnight stays at the hut, call (530) 426-3632 for reservations.

POLE CREEK TRAIL SYSTEM Easy to strenuous

Unmarked trails follow roads along Pole Creek and Silver Creek Drainages. Trailhead 6 miles south of Truckee on Highway 89. Some parking on west side of highway.

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MEEKS MEADOWS Easy | fs.usda.gov

Meeks Meadows on the West Shore off Highway 89 offers a vast area to ski. The trailhead is across from the Meeks Bay Fire Station; look for the log cabin with red trim. Follow the U.S. Forest Service road or meander through the meadow and down to Meeks Creek.

SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK

Easy to moderate | (530) 525-7982 or parks.ca.gov The Ed Z’berg/Sugar Pine Point State Park is a spectacular spot to cross-country ski or snowshoe among the dense forests of the West Shore or along Lake Tahoe’s shores.

The park offers more than 18 km of marked ski trails. Three groomed trails begin at the campground, 9 miles south of Tahoe City, with two skier-packed trails on the lake side of the park, accessed from the Day Use entrance. Winter camping available. Guided tours and programs. Parking fee. TART

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

Easy to moderate

Steep canyon and side slopes at lower end of trail with 7 miles of groomed access. Upper elevations feature ridges and bowls. Route follows Rattlesnake Road to Magonigal Summit. Trailhead at Cisco Grove exit north off Interstate 80.*

Developed for beginners, this well-marked series of trails allows skiers to explore the area. Terrain is mostly flat and is good for the entire family. Take Highway 89 to Cathedral Road and park in the Sno-Park. Marked trails start at the parking lot with three trails near Fallen Leaf Lake. On the lake side of Highway 89, follow the road to access the Tallac Historic Trail.*

Easy to advanced

(530) 546-5612 · mark@TheStormKing.com

The meadows in Blackwood Canyon offer a great place to get into the wilderness off Highway 89 on the West Shore. Follow Highway 89 south from Tahoe City and park at the Kaspian Recreation Area. Skiers can glide along the road (not plowed) or through the meadows. Snowmobilers should follow the road about 2.5 miles, then take a left across the bridge and continue up Barker Pass Road to large open areas, steep bowls and many roads.

Limited parking.*

TAYLOR CREEK

BROCKWAY SUMMIT & MARTIS PEAK

Group presentations · In-home talks

Easy to advanced

RATTLESNAKE

NORTH SHORE

• Geared for Games • Word After Word Bookshop Donner Memorial State Park • Gratitude Gifts • Mind Play • Alice’s Mountain Market located at Squaw Valley

BLACKWOOD CANYON

Sno-park on the south side of Highway 88 at Blue Lakes Road. Much of Hope Valley is open to snowmobiling, but some areas are not; stay in designated areas. Ungroomed routes to Willow Creek (8.5 miles) and Tamarack Lake (1 mile) and groomed routes to Blue Lakes (11.5 miles) and Forestdale (3.5 miles). Stage from Hope Valley Sno-Park.*

or pick up a copy at: •

WEST SHORE

An unmarked route follows the road to the creek bottom.

Lateral roads offer many side trips. Trailhead at Sagehen Summit on the west side of Highway 89, 8 miles north of Truckee. Limited parking.

Easy to advanced

TheStormKing.com

On Mount Rose high above Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Meadows offers an expansive area where skiers can stretch their legs. Head up Highway 431 from Incline Village until you reach the meadows before the summit. South side designated for skiers and snowshoers, while the north side is designated for snowmobilers. Heavy weekend use.

HOPE VALLEY

CISCO GROVE

Order book at:

Easy to advanced

SAGEHEN SUMMIT Easy to moderate HISTORIAN & AUTHOR

TAHOE MEADOWS

Brockway Summit off Highway 267 offers an abundance of areas to ski with turnouts on both sides of the highway where Nordic skiers and snowshoers can follow logging and utility roads. For snowmobilers, the best access and limited parking about one-quarter mile north of Brockway Summit below the top of Highway 267 on the Truckee side.

No groomed trails, but many old lumber roads exist. Take a good map, as it’s easy to become turned around.

PAGE MEADOWS Easy to moderate

Ski or snowshoe along an old road that meanders through a forest and into a cluster of meadows. Take Highway 89 south from Tahoe City, then turn right on Pine Avenue and right on Tahoe Park Heights Road. At the crest of the hill, take the middle fork, which becomes Big Pine Road, then take a left on Silver Tip. The parking area is at the top of the road.

Easy | (530) 573-2600 or fs.usda.gov

LOST SIERRA

YUBA PASS

Easy to advanced | fs.usda.gov The route north from Yuba Pass off Highway 49 is popular for snowmobilers, and shares the trail system with Nordic skiers for the first mile before branching off. For skiers and snowshoers, the route goes north for 2 miles with views of the Sierra Valley, then leads west for 1 mile and rejoins the snowmobile trail. For a short loop, go south (a left) on the snowmobile route back to Yuba Pass.

Alternately, you can continue west through a meadow for 1.5 miles, then head south (a left) onto the Lunch Creek Ski Trail 1.25 miles, then north (a left) on 3 Knobs Trail for 1.5 miles. 3 Knobs Trail ends back at the snowmobile trail. Snowmobilers can head north from the branch 1 mile in and travel through Gold Lake Highway. Then, head south to Bassett’s or north to Gold Lake. This route offers a variety of terrain and beautiful views of the Sierra Buttes and the Lakes Basin. More than 100 miles of trails. Take Highway 89 north of Truckee, and then take Highway 49 to Yuba Pass. Trailhead parking is 6 miles east of Bassett’s Station.*

* SNO-PARK PERMIT REQUIRED; (916) 324-1222 OR OHV.PARKS.CA.GOV/SNOPARKS.

March 10-April 6, 2021 HISTORY

Historic 1952 storms S T R I K E TA H O E S I E R R A S TO RY BY M A R K M c L AU G H L I N

P

owerful winter storms are a climate signature for the Tahoe Sierra. Snowfall measured in feet and wind gusts of 200 mph on mountain ridges play havoc with highway and air travel, as well as local businesses. Historically, Donner Pass has garnered most of the headlines due to its importance as a primary transportation corridor for automobiles and trains over the mountains, but communities throughout the region often get hammered just as bad and struggle to survive.

When it comes to benchmark Tahoe winters remembered for sheer impact, 1952 is still the one to beat. Recordbreaking snowfall pummeled the region in a relentless series of powerful blizzards that spawned avalanches, trapped a train with 226 people on board, closed vital highways for weeks and caused major havoc in mountain society. Dramatic stories of death, luck and survival illustrate the brutal severity of that epic winter.

The winter of ‘52 is remembered as one of the most noteworthy in the Tahoe Sierra. Nearly 68 feet of snow fell, just 7 inches shy of the record set in 1938.

The season’s first storm hit a week before Halloween, dumping a foot of snow as a harbinger of the harsh winter to come. By mid-December, the mountain snowpack stood a solid 6 feet deep. For 10 days there was a lull, but on Christmas Eve, a powerful system from the Gulf of Alaska roared in with heavy snow that closed mountain roads and trapped tourists on holiday in Tahoe City and Truckee. Telephone lines went down and on Dec. 26 avalanches took out trans-Sierra high voltage lines that caused an extended black out in Tahoe City and surrounding communities.

TRAPPED AT SKY TAVERN The cold core of the storm parked itself in the eastern Pacific Ocean and generated blizzard conditions for seven days. Locals called it the worst storm in 50 years. At the Sky Tavern Ski Resort near Mt. Rose, 70 guests and staff were snowbound by drifts 20 feet deep. Sky Tavern had opened in 1945 and was always popular with Hollywood movie stars like Gary Cooper, Ingrid Bergman, Rita Hayworth, along with sports celebrities. As a Christmas present for his family, baseball legend Joe DiMaggio had rented a small cabin at Sky Tavern so that he, his ex-wife Dorothy and their son Joe Jr. could enjoy a few days of peace and quiet in the High Sierra. But instead of sun and fun, they were among those stranded by the severe storm. It took four days for a Rotary snowplow to chew its way up the Mt. Rose Highway and finally open the road to the resort.

Digging out a rope tow at Sky Tavern, circa 1952. | Courtesy Mark McLaughlin

Her husband, Thomas Holmes, recalled, “I was outside the mill when the avalanche struck. I looked around and saw a wall of snow roaring down from the canyon walls.

The houses seemed to explode. I started running toward my home, almost crazy because I was sure my wife and baby were killed.” After he found his wife alive, she pointed to the mass of snow and said, “Our baby Michael is under that.” Holmes and

Never in danger and well-supplied with food, the marooned guests nonetheless greeted the arrival of the plow with loud cheers. DiMaggio’s bad knees kept him off the hickory skis, but he never lost his sense of humor. After observing hundreds of anxious slope-bound skiers parked along the road, “Joltin Joe” remarked, “After what I’ve seen the last few days, I’m convinced skiers are worse than baseball fans. Some of them were even sleeping in their cars waiting for the road to be opened. They just don’t quit.”

AVALANCHES IN THE SIERRA At Echo Summit south of Lake Tahoe, the blizzard turned lethal on Dec. 31 when a state highway maintenance man, James Swafford, died after being crushed by a massive avalanche on Highway 50.

The 200-ton slide buried a Rotary plow, a push plow and a pickup truck. Swafford’s co-worker, Frank Krek, was also engulfed by snow and knocked unconscious, but he survived after 50 men spent nearly two hours digging him out with hand shovels.

On Jan. 2, 1952, a 10-year-old girl named Lydia was in bed with a cold, when she heard “a high-pitched wail, accompanied by a deep roar.” Suddenly her family’s house in Sierra City, below the towering Sierra Buttes, began shaking while the trees outside whipped back and forth. Her window shattered sending pieces of glass, snow and a large tree limb onto her bed.

Somehow, she escaped injury.

After she ran from her room, she discovered the front parlor windows were gone and the front door blown open. On top of the 5 feet of snow that covered the floor were her two dogs that rode the rubble right into the house. Outside a deep slide zone filled the entire block of their street, the snow studded with their neighbor’s home furnishings. A bathtub, toilet, pots, pans and chairs were among the debris. The devastating slide destroyed several homes and buildings. It had also cascaded into the one room schoolhouse. Fortunately, none of the 32 enrolled students had shown up for class that day.

Truckee sidewalk, circa 1952. | Courtesy Truckee Donner Historical Society

MASSIVE SNOW & COLD The winter storm finally shifted east on New Year’s Day. The sunshine was appreciated, but bitter cold invaded the area. In snow-covered, Reno the temperature slid to 1 degree above zero. Truckee fell to minus 18 degrees, while at the Bureau of Reclamation Station at Boca east of Truckee, the temperature plummeted to 42 degrees below zero — just three degrees shy of California’s state record of minus 45 set at that same location on Jan. 20, 1937.

The Christmas tempest was severe and exhausting for residents, but there was another monster low-pressure system looming in the Pacific Ocean. (Satellite imagery pinpoints potential weather systems well in advance today, but before 1960 forecasters on the West Coast relied on scattered ship reports.) The new storm raged from Jan. 10 to 17, crushing the Tahoe Sierra with phenomenal amounts of snow. Over eight days nearly 13 feet fell in in Tahoe City, a record that still stands today.

During the blizzard, an avalanche struck the Twin Bridges Resort near Echo Summit killing two women, while 1,200 marines bivouacked at Pickel Meadows Mountain Warfare Training Center in Mono County were evacuated from a winter survival program. Avalanches threatened mountain communities as far south as the Owens Valley.

Near Bishop, 33 people were rescued after an avalanche destroyed their mining camp. The group had spent two days huddled in a concrete basement fearing to leave. The snow slide hit so quickly it separated an infant from its mother and buried the child under 15 feet of snow.

some friends frantically dug into the frozen pile for two hours before finding the toddler alive.

Amazingly, the child was fine. Holmes later said, “Michael was wedged between the family’s two small dachshund dogs.

All were alive and uninjured. I am sure we owe our baby’s life to our dogs. They must have crept as closely as possible to him to protect him and keep him warm.”

Read more local history at TheTahoeWeekly.com The winter of ‘52 is remembered as one of the most noteworthy in the Tahoe Sierra. Nearly 68 feet of snow fell, just 7 inches shy of the record set in 1938. The stories of human drama and heroism that year make it among the most memorable of them all.  Tahoe historian Mark McLaughlin is a nationally published author and professional speaker. His award-winning books are available at local stores or at thestormking.com.

You may reach him at mark@thestormking.com.

15

TheTahoeWeekly.com

FOREST SERVICE NEARS DECISIONS ON

SNOWMOBILE USE S TO RY BY S E A N M c A L I N D I N

Read our coverage on the OSV plans Find links to each plan online Read our detailed synopsis of proposed changes at TheTahoeWeekly.com 16

March 10-April 6, 2021 FEATURE

CHANGES General Changes 12-inch minimum snowpack requirement; 6 inches on trails 500-foot buffer around Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Limited OSV access under 4,000 feet elevation

Eldorado National Forest 120,000 acre or 26% reduction Restricted access nearby Van Vleck Road and Loon Lake

58 miles of groomed trails

he decisions are almost

here. Since 2015, the U.S.

National Forests spread

throughout the Tahoe Sierra

have been neck deep in the process of designing over-thesnow vehicle management policies for its vast public lands.

Now, the majority of forests in the region including Stanislaus, Plumas, Eldorado, Lassen and Tahoe aim to release final plans in the coming months, officially establishing where motorized vehicles such as snowmobiles, snowbikes and snowcats are permitted to travel.

In 1972, President Nixon issued an executive order requiring federal land-management agencies to minimize environmental impacts and conflicts associated with the use of motorized off-road vehicles on federal public lands.

While the forests in the Tahoe Sierra eventually completed the requirements for dirt bikes, quads and other dry weather vehicles by 2010, they did not perform that same analysis for winter machines.

Three groups — Snowlands Network, Winter Wildlands Alliance and the Center for Biological Diversity — subsequently sued the Forest Service in 2011 to perform that study. The result was a 2013 settlement to complete the analyses.

Each National Forest that sees significant OSV (over-snow vehicles) use is now required by the National Environmental Policy Act to assess potential environment impact and update where OSVs may or may not be used in each Forest Service district.

Stanislaus National Forest will be the first to publish its decision this spring. Eldorado, Lassen and Tahoe National Forests are expected to release its decisions in late summer or fall.

LEFT Zach Knudson plays in the powder in the Truckee area. | Travis Alley ABOVE Photo by Luke Allen

The Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, a special district managing the lands surrounding Big Blue itself, put forth its initial proposal in September 2019 and is now in the process of reviewing more than 1,000 comments in hopes of publishing a draft decision by early 2022. At that time, the public will have the opportunity comment before the Forest Service makes its final decision.

Nevada’s Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest plans to start working on its plan in fall 2021, according to spokesperson Christina Sukach, making it the last of the National Forests in the greater Lake Tahoe area to once and for all determine where OSVs can and cannot go within public lands.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit 3,600 acre or 2% reduction OSV use restricted to Nov 1-April 15 Restricted access by Incline Village, Hell Hole, Chickadee Ridge, Barker Pass and Fallen Leaf Lake Addition of 22 parking spaces for trail access Investment in new groomed trails

Lassen National Forest 200,000 acre or 21% reduction in OSV-friendly zones 17 designated PCT crossing sites

“At the end of the day

Restricted access nearby Colby Mountain, Eagles Lake, Hog Flat and Bizz Johnson Recreation Trail

when I look across our

Plumas National Forest

forests, there are

290,000 acre or 25% reduction

millions of acres that are designated for OSV use so the opportunity does remain abundant as we go forward.

So hopefully, we will

16 PCT crossings Restricted access nearby Mount Fillmore, Bucks Lake Creek, Upper Jamison Peak, Thomson Peak, Lost Sierra Ski Traverse and Lakes Basin 143 miles of groomed trail

Stanislaus National Forest 540,000 acre or 79% reduction Restricted access nearby Haypress Lake and Jelmini Basin Construction of five seasonal stream crossings

be able to maintain the

April 15 seasonal closure at Sonora Pass

amazing opportunity

Tahoe National Forest

to explore the magic

230,000 acre or 28% reduction

winter wonder of our National Forests.”

34 PCT crossing sites Restricted access nearby Boca Reservoir, Sagehen Research Station, Tinker’s Knob and Independence Lake

–Garrett Villanueva 17

TheTahoeWeekly.com

we got there. One of the things that has become evident is a number of questions remain about rationale for various proposed decisions. To move forward, the Forest needs be prepared to address to those questions, and then we need to work together to find successful solutions.”

Most of the final plans had been scheduled for release in 2020 until the coronavirus pandemic combined with one the worst wildfire seasons on record pushed things back as government agencies juggled dual crises while working remotely.

“It’s stretched the agency thin,” says Pacific Southwest Regional Office trail and travel management program leader Garrett Villanueva. “We’ve all found ourselves having to fill roles that we haven’t normally done in the past. We had over 2 million acres of National Forest lands burn last year. Many of us were supporting efforts to fight those fires. With the increased recreation use and additional challenges presented by the pandemic everything has been more difficult and it just seems to take longer.”

As our public lands see greater use than ever before, these policies and the processes that create them reflect on the importance of working together as a community to share the beauty of these precious resources, while also preserving them for future generations to come.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

A Delicate Compromise These winter travel management plans represent a diplomatic arrangement between various public interest groups including snowmobilers; non-motorized back-country travelers such as skiers, splitboarders and snowshoers; private landowners; environmental scientists and stewards; and more than a dozen government agencies.

By law, the Forest Service project teams must consider numerous factors in its decision such as preservation of the environment and local wildlife, federally protected areas including wilderness zones and the Pacific Crest Trail, the history of recreation in the area, and reports of disputes between motorized and human-powered travelers.

Balancing each party’s interest within this recreationally popular and biologically important geographic region is no easy task. Plumas National Forest recently decided to postpone its final decision until the end of the year to adequately address concerns raised in 18 objection letters received in reaction to its draft decision.

“It is increasingly clear to me the Plumas OSV project is much more complex than lines on a map and designation of areas,” wrote Plumas National Forest supervisor Chris Carlton in a Feb. 26 email to Tahoe Weekly. “We will be recreating, working and living with each other in these communities for a long time after the ink is dry, so while we don’t all need to agree with the final decisions, we do need to have confidence in how

Tahoe Sierra National Forest & Wilderness Areas

“We want to build the plan that addresses the public wants and needs for recreation use and resource protection, as well as all the statues, law and policies we must follow,” says Villanueva. “There’s really some spectacular scenery and terrain throughout the Sierra Nevada that

makes for amazing OSV opportunities. The designated open areas are informed by resource analysis. In places where they are closed, there are reasons that are important. At the end of the day when are millions of acres that are designated for OSV use so the opportunity does remain abundant as we go forward. So hopefully, we will be able to maintain the amazing opportunity to explore the magic winter wonder of our National Forests.”  ABOVE Bryan Madison makes perfect powder turns.

Truckee, Calif. | Travis Alley

LASSEN COUNTY

PLUMAS COUNTY

WILDERNESS AREAS PLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST TAHOE NATIONAL FOREST LAKE TAHOE BASIN MANAGEMENT UNIT ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST

SIERRA COUNTY

Reno

Sierraville

HUMBOLDT-TOIYABE NATIONAL FOREST STANISLAUS NATIONAL FOREST

NEVADA COUNTY

Truckee

MT. ROSE

PLACER COUNTY

GRANITE CHIEF

Tahoe City

Carson City

LAKE TAHOE

South Lake Tahoe

ELDORADO COUNTY

NV

ALPINE COUNTY

Lassen | https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=45832

Blue Lakes

Plumas | https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=47124

CALAVERAS COUNTY

MONO COUNTY

Stanislaus | https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=46311 Tahoe | https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=45914

TUOLUMNE COUNTY

MOKELUMNE

18

by Forest Service District: Eldorado | https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=46034

Hope Valley

AMADOR COUNTY

Map by Alyssa Ganong

PROJECTS PLANS

LTBMU | https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=47342

DESOLATION

CA

TAHOE NATIONAL FOREST

CARSON-ICEBERG

March 10-April 6, 2021 FUN & GAMES

Horoscopes

Puzzles

YOUR BUSINESS COULD

SPONSOR THIS PAGE

Michael O’Connor, Life Coach Astrologer SunStarAstrology.com

Your business’

LOGO here

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)

A busy time behind the scenes continues this week. Plans, dreams, schemes and strategies are all dancing in your mind. Yet, these have also required realistic clarification and outline in preparation for their actual expression. This more proactive stage is now fast approaching.

Email anne@tahoethisweek.com for details

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20)

Mars in Gemini should manifest as a welcome boost of energy this week. This energy pattern will rise steadily like a high pressure system for about a dozen days before it descends back into a low pressure for a short while. So, if you have goals and projects, tune-in to initiate a momentum to get a jump start on spring.

Taurus (Apr 20-May 21)

FIRE

EARTH

AIR

WATER

Libra (Sep 22-Oct 22)

Health has been and continues to be a central theme these days. Beyond physical health, this emphasis may include the health of your diet, friend network, your dreams and lifestyle rhythms and routines altogether. In any case, circumstances continue to push you to dig deep and to be as realistic as you can so you can effectively weed out any toxic behavior or relationships patterns.

Fresh starts destined in your public and professional life have begun. The process of beginning is still under way but will enter into the next effective phase with Mars in Gemini. This could manifest as a busier schedule and, fortunately, a boost of energy to support a multi-tasking period.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 21)

Reflections on life’s deeper meanings and your role and purpose in it as this stage continue as a central theme. Yet, Mars entering your sign will synchronize with a creative boost of energy. On one hand, this will serve to increase and sharpen your contemplations.

Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22)

One way or another, you have been undergoing transformational changes. These actually have a few layers and the surface themes have already shifted to their next destined phase. This shift includes a spiritual and meditative aspect which will continue and deepen over the coming weeks.

Leo (Jul 22-Aug 23)

Transformation is a key word as it is a core feature of the creative process. Outer activity and other key players will engage your attention, sparking a revolutionary impulse. This will inspire a new quality of creative self-expression and social outreach which will increase steadily through spring.

Scorpio (Oct 22-Nov 21)

Pisces time represents a creative cycle for you, by divine design. So, that is the best way to respond to it. Yet, the focus can be directed to your love life as well as other creative expressions. Can you be more present, respectful, acknowledging, empathetic, conscientious, romantic…, with the one(s) you love? Step back, observe and really notice where your creative energies need to be invested.

Sagittarius (Nov 21-Dec 21)

You are happy to huddle in close to home now. Yet, the pace is busy perhaps especially with communications with family neighbors and friends. As well, you want answers and to understand others in general and what is going on in the world. To this end, you are more open to new knowledge, perceptions and interpretations than usual.

Capricorn (Dec 21-Jan 19)

More than usual, you have and continue to want to get a firmer grasp on where things are headed.

While the future cannot be absolutely predicted due to the role of free will, at least a sense of probability will do. Yet, the Pisces factor is also directing you to appreciate the intrinsic value regarding current events and the choices you feel inclined to make. Balance journey with outcome.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22)

A shift towards new relationship involvements has already begun and will go to their next effective level. This process includes something of an apprenticeship phase. It will require you to summon every ounce of confidence to offset doubt and worry.

Fortunately, the planetary gods are in your favor.

Aquarius (Jan 19-Feb 19)

The seeds of a new beginning have gestated and are now beginning to take root. This will become increasingly evident over the coming weeks. The strong Aquarius factor is leading you to set your sights on the future. This does include the prospects of making needed changes close to home, perhaps even thoughts about making some big moves, literally and figuratively.

If a witch were traveling very fast, do you suppose she might be on a sonic broom?

CryptoQuip

19

Hocus Focus differences: 1. Wndow is different, 2. Frog is missing, 3. Doorknob is higher, 4. Railing is missing, 5. Cap is reversed, 6. Earring is missing.

TheTahoeWeekly.com

THE makers

Find a full

EVENT CALENDAR

creative awareness | arts & culture | makers’ movement

at TheTahoeWeekly.com Events are subject to change & cancellation; always check in advance for current schedules.

Nina Pivirotto W E AV I N G T H ROU G H L I F E S TO RY BY P R I YA H UT N E R

N

“I wove my way through the year. I saw what color patterns emerged through the seasons.

It’s really interesting to see how each season dramatically influences my color palette.”

–Nina Pivirotto Pivirotto traveled to London to study fashion and went to Bali to find herself.

During this time, a friend introduced her to the world of weaving, where she met her mentor, Rhiannon Griego.

“I define myself as being a designer. I use textiles, specifically the use of fibers. It’s a meditative spiritual practice that is influenced by the world around me and how I express myself as a person,” explains Pivirotto.

Explore Tahoe’s vibrant arts scene

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

“First, you need to dress the loom, which is the process of putting the vertical strings into the loom,” explains Pivirotto. The second step of the process is to prepare the fibers and wind them onto the bobbins.

The next step is the weaving, and the final part is the finishing. Pivirotto explains that she only sees a small portion of the piece she is weaving while she’s working, unlike a painting where you can step back and see the whole.

“Weaving on a loom is done in sections.

Once I get into the flow, everything around me dissolves, and it’s just me and the loom.

There is a sense of surrender to my creative 20

process,” says Pivirotto, who becomes immersed in the rhythmic sound of the loom.

Pivirotto produces both woven wearable and tapestries. She creates woven wearables such as kimonos, capes, scarves, dresses and tapestry for walls. Each piece she says tells a story.

“Part of my mission in this woven world is to bring back this ancient practice,” Pivirotto says.

Her work will be soon featured for the first time at Straight Light Studio in Aspen, Colo. Weaving through quarantine is a reflection of what Pivirotto has experienced in the face of uncertainty during the pandemic. The theme of the upcoming show revolves around the seasons as Pivirotto examines life during the past year.

“I wove my way through the year. I saw what color patterns emerged through the seasons. It’s really interesting to see how each season dramatically influences my color palette,” says Pivirotto. She explores the color shifts of her weaves as they relate to the seasons; her moodier pieces of winter are darker, while lighter pieces that are more textural reflect spring. Summer tapestries boast bright colors, and her fall pieces are more golden tones and black and white weaves.

“The essence of the fall is like holding onto summer while preparing to go into the introspective time of winter. It’s as if being on the edge of the living world and making ready to step into the dormant world,” explains Pivirotto.

Pivirotto likens working on her loom back to a moment while Italy where she watched a woman doing a puppet show in the village square.

“She had a beautiful stage and worked the strings that were tied her fingers, so the puppets danced and interacted with each other. This is what weaving is like, my hands working all these different strings while I weave,” she says.

Her woven wearables take time, beginning with dressing the loom and pairing the fibers to the finished product; it can take anywhere from 30 or 40 hours to complete one piece. Tapestries can take numerous days or weeks to finish. Sitting at a loom is a whole-body experience, and Pivirotto admits it is quite physically taxing and demanding.

The multi-talented Pivirotto also reads the tarot while exploring spirituality through her craft, while in nature and riding her motorcycle. | ninapivirotto.com. 

th e a rt s Galen Brown exhibit Melhop Gallery 7077 | Zephyr Cove March 10-31 melhopgallery.com

Marie Strassburger on exhibit North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City | March 11-29 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | (530) 581-2787, northtahoearts.com

Tiny Art Show North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City March 12-May 2

11 a.m.-4 p.m. | (603) 942-5177, northtahoearts.com

Virtual Book Club Truckee Library | Truckee March 16-Sept. 21

1-2 p.m. | (530) 582-7846, madelynhelling. evanced.info

Writers in the Woods - Wendy J. Fox Sierra Nevada University | Incline Village March 26 (775) 831-1314, sierranevada.edu

Alyssa Keys

Alyssa Keys

Courtesy Mile High Band Association

ina Pivirotto is one of those people that shine a bright light whose fashion sense turns heads. When I saw her last, she was wrapped in beautiful black and white woven cape. She exuded style. When asked about her cape, she said she wove it.

For her, it’s a form of meditation, an expression of herself and her art. She not only weaves but also makes exquisite jewelry. Working with the elements, she equates her weaving as a feminine practice that embraces the air element while creating jewelry is masculine, utilizing the element of fire. She found her journey to designing and creating art after several major life transitions, including the closing of her salon, Urban Angels, that left her searching for what’s next.

Jazz & Beyond art contest The Mile High Band Association’s 2021 Jazz & Beyond Festival Committee is sponsoring an art contest for Northern Nevada artists, including teachers and students. Selected entries in the competition may be used to promote the festival, and the winning entry will be featured on the festival’s advertising poster and program cover. Festival T-shirts this year may also feature the winning design. The entry deadline is April 1. | Details milehighjazz.com

Community

of Writers releases

poetry book The Community of Writers has released its 50th Anniversary Poetry Anthology, “Why To These Rocks,” from Heyday Books. There will be a virtual book launch party on March 11 at 6:30 p.m.

Join Cornelius Eady, Brenda Hillman, Evie Shockley (via recording), along with Pulitzer Prize winners Forrest Gander, Robert Hass, Sharon Olds and Gregory Pardlo to celebrate the publication of the anthology as they read and discuss poems first written during the Community of Writers’ Poetry Workshop. | Register communityofwriters.org

THE lineup live music | shows | nightlife

Find a full

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

REMINDS US WHO WE ARE

Events are subject to change & cancellation; always check in advance for current schedules.

S TO RY BY S E A N M c A L I N D I N

March 19 | Album Release Party, The Bluebird | Reno, Nev.

A

lush seashell waterfall descends into a neon jungle of ambient guitars.

A potent beat kicks in and my head nods intuitively to the rhythm. I close my eyes, listen and remember who I am.

With Local Anthology’s debut album, “Remember Who You Are,” released March 7 on Spliffy Records, the tightknit Tahoe Sierra quartet showcases its high-energy, danceable songcraft and potent lyricism.

“We’re not trying to be anybody else,” says lead singer and guitarist Harrison Russell. “Being unique helps. You gotta have your own sound and your own style.”

“ Remember who you are Don’t let them fool you.

I know that time’s been tough Black Ice Theatre Co. presents “Super Happy Awesome News,” the virtual musical now streaming from the new Black Ice Cubes Children’s Theatre program.

Directed by Richard S. Sargent and Pamela Taylor and featuring a cast of child actors from across the country, “Super Happy Awesome News” offers kids a safe space to process and express their emotions, according to a press release.

In “Super Happy Awesome News,” two siblings launch rival good news networks and find themselves competing for the title of Local Anthology released its debut happiest news show. album, “Remember Soon, their corresWho You Are,” pondents are in a March 7 on Spliffy whirlwind of ecstatic Records. | Photo musical reporting & cover design from joyful weather

by Subra Doyle forecasts, to cheerful cooking segments and blissful political updates. But, when vulnerability starts peeking through the euphoric facade, they’re left wondering: is there room for raw honesty on a super happy broadcast?

Tickets are $12.50 per household. The show will stream online via YouTube through March. | Tickets blackicetheatreco.com/p/tickets

festivals | entertainment

Local Anthology

EVENT CALENDAR

New children’s theater debuts

March 10-April 6, 2021 THE LINEUP

But we can get there with more love.

And remember who you are Don’t let them rule you.

I know it’ll turn out right If we follow that same light.”

–Harrison Russell, “Remember Who You Are”

Since forming in 2016 when Russell and percussionist “Motor Boat” Mic McAndrews starting jamming open mic nights at Fat Cat Bar and Grill in Tahoe City, they’ve opened for popular national acts including Steel Pulse, Pepper, Crazy Town and Bad Brains while cultivating a devoted homegrown following.

Bassist Anthony “Tahoe Tony” Leombruno and drummer Cam Davey joined in 2018 reinforcing the group with a diverse set of talents and clear sense of camaraderie.

“We’re definitely friends,” says Russell.

“That’s what keeps us together. We fought so much about money putting the album out. We fight about everything. But at the end of the day, we’re brothers, for sure.

I don’t know if there’s really any other way to do it.”

In the footsteps of Slightly Stoopid and The Expendables, their music is characteristically Californian reggae rock with a healthy dose of hardcore punk sewn on for good measure. Russell’s raspy, raw, emotive voice draws comparisons to

REGGAE ROCK

Bradley Nowell of Sublime. Leombruno’s proggy bass thrums through the record like Flea just smoked a red hot philly in his tool shed. The funky drumming of Davey grounds the crispy wall of sound while McAndrews’ percussion sprinkles sweet brown sugar on top.

The band recorded “Remember Who You Are” live in two days of marathon sessions at Subra Doyle’s home studio in Carson City. It’s a defining statement for Russell and the musical brothers he’s made since moving to the area in 2012.

Last year, he became father to one Louie Van Russell and realized it was time to make a lasting statement.

“He’s a big inspiration for the record,” he says. “There’s a lot of motivation not to just have fun and play gigs all the time, but to have a real project. I’m thinking about my longevity these days. Our youths our fleeting.”

The album cover depicts the band members contemplating their wavy reflections in the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe.

It’s a fitting image for artists reconnecting to their roots when it’s all too easy to forget where you’ve come from.

“It’s about self-expression, the power of an individual, the power of art and freedom of thought,” says Russell. “Remember to be yourself in a world that wants us to conform or divide. It’s basically unity in that.”

In a society that’s increasingly isolated, Local Anthology is a force of harmony. After live music all but shut down a year ago this month, they threw outdoor summer block parties to keep the community alive.

“Our political message is non-political,” says Harrison. “We’re all about stopping the division, thinking for yourself, not being afraid to be yourself and not criticizing other people for being themselves. A big part of our music is just love.”

On March 19, they’ll play an in-person

From left, percussionist “Motor Boat” Mic McAndrews, bassist Anthony “Tahoe Tony” Leombruno, guitarist and lead singer Harrison Russell, and drummer Cam Davey are Local Anthology. | Harrison Russell

album release party at The Bluebird in Reno, Nev. With more live music hopefully slated to return this summer, Local Anthology’s ambitions are anything but local.

“We’re trying to get out of the bubble,” says Russell. “As soon as we’re able to have festivals, we’ll start with a West Coast tour. We already have a tour bus. My RV is road ready.”

While the pandemic stopped some musicians in their tracks, Local Anthology saw it as an opportunity to refine their act and prepare for a bigger future.

“It made us work harder,” says Harrison. “A lot of people gave up. We decided collectively that we are going to take any avenue we can find.”

Gazing ahead, Harrison sees the potential for a post-pandemic world music scene that is free from corporate and capitalistic manipulation.

“It’s looking like it’s changing things from a commercial setting, taking power from the venue owners and putting back in the artist,” he says. “They legally can’t put on events. But we as free citizens can do whatever we want as long as were not hurting anyone … It never has been about the money. It was the fact that we got together and kept the music alive.” | Local Anthology on Facebook  Watch the music video for “Remember Who You Are”

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

Sean McAlindin is a writer and musician living in Truckee, who loves a secret powder stash just as much as a good jam. You can reach him at entertainment@tahoethisweek. com. Other writings and original music are available at seanmcalindin.com.

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EAT &drink

food & libations | recipes | delicious events

SAVO R T H E M A N Y V I RT U E S O F

lemons S TO RY & P H OTO S BY P R I YA H UT N E R

L

emons are a most versatile fruit; with their bright yellow puckered skin and a fresh aroma, many varieties grow yearround in California, making them always in season.

Six different types of lemons grow in the state. Eureka Lemons grow yearround, as do Pink Variegated, a varietal of the Eureka lemon. These round lemons with green stripes, turning yellow when the fruit ripens, are ideal for cooking and garnishing. Lisbon lemons are native to

And, don’t throw out the last of the lemon rind. Lemons are great to clean with. They remove grease and grime off baking trays, pots and pans. Sprinkle baking soda on the pan and add a touch of lemon juice and let it sit. It’s incredible how well it breaks down grease. If your dish disposal can handle it, put a small amount of lemon rind down the drain for a fresh scent.

Lemons are also an excellent tonic for health and healing. They add flavor to almost any food — an ode to the lemon and all of the virtues it bestows on lemon lovers. 

Whether sweet or

Priya Hutner is a food writer, personal chef and owner of The Seasoned Sage, a local meal delivery and catering company. Priya has been creating and preparing meals from an early age. She has worked in the restaurant industry in New York City, attended catering school, and was the head chef and executive director of a nonprofit spiritual community in Florida. Visit her website at TheSeasonedSage.com. Send your comments, story ideas and food tidbits to priya@tahoethisweek.com.

savory, dishes and desserts pop with flavor and tempt the taste buds with the addition of lemon juice or zest.

Portugal. They are juicy with few seeds and are commonly grown in California.

They also grow year-round but are mainly harvested in spring and winter.

The sweet Meyer Lemon is originally from China. They are a cross between a lemon and mandarin orange and produce fruit in spring and winter. They tend to be juicy and sweet, great for lots of recipes.

The Primofiori Lemon is native to Spain.

This lemon fruits throughout the year, but the primary harvest season is winter. This lemon is considered one of the best lemons in California. The last variety grown in the state is the Verna lemon, also native to Spain. These lemons tend to be a bit acidic.

They have a thick rind, a lot of seeds and are not very juicy.

Try Priya’s Lemon Hummus recipe

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

Lemons are a staple in my home, and I always have them on hand. I drink a glass of warm lemon water first thing in the morning. It’s great for hydration and digestion, and lemons are packed with vitamin C, as well. I save the rinds for zesting (grating the skin) or adding a twist to my coffee or espresso.

Whether sweet or savory, dishes and desserts pop with flavor and tempt the taste buds with the addition of lemon juice or zest. The low-calorie lemon is excellent for salad dressings (Lemon Vinaigrette), sauces (Meyer Lemon Chutney), dips (Lemon Hummus) and dessert (Lemon Curd is to die for). These are only a few 22

EASY KALE SALAD WITH LEMON DRESSING From the kitchen of Priya Hutner 2 heads of kale ¼ C extra virgin olive oil 1 lemon, juiced 1 t kosher salt ½ t fresh ground pepper ¼ C pomegranates ¼ C of goat cheese ¼ C toasted pine nuts or walnuts

ways to experience the virtues of lemon.

When it comes to greens, nothing goes better than lemon and salad. I’ve been making many kale salads with olive oil and lemon dressing of late, and leafy greens are excellent for you. It’s essential to massage the kale with a touch of olive oil and salt before adding additional ingredients and dressing the salad.

Main dishes made with lemon and lemon sauces are some of my favorite meals. Shrimp, fish, chicken or tofu Francese is delightfully lemony. The protein is dredged in an egg batter and prepared in a lemon butter sauce. Piccata dishes boast a lemon-forward flavor, dishes like chicken, fish or veal piccata. Lemon on pasta is divine. It’s easy to create a simple pasta dish with lemon and herbs. Lemon orzo with parmesan and parsley is a fantastic dish to make for the family.

Lemons are not only for dressings, dinners and desserts. Side vegetables pop when lemon is added. Seared lemon garlic

broccoli and roasted asparagus with lemon, garlic, butter and parmesan are two of my favorites. Lemon goes well on just about any leafy green vegetable like spinach or roasted kale.

And lemon desserts are so delicious.

Lemon bars, cake, scones, tarts, lemon meringue pie, pound cake and sorbet are only a handful of lemony treats that are all dessert hits. Don’t forget lemon preserves with toast and tea.

Lemon goes hand in hand with most beverages and adds a new twist to most drinks. Homemade lemonade with herbs and berries, a warm lemonade cocktail, hot toddy or hot ginger lemonade with bourbon or vodka comes to mind.

Remove any large stems from kale if using dino or lacinto kale strip greens from stems and place in a large mixing bowl.

Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil,1 tablespoon of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and massage the greens for 3 minutes or so until kale softens and turns a dark green. Add half of the remaining lemon juice, olive oil, pomegranates, goat cheese, salt and pepper, and mix well. Taste the salad and add more lemon juice, salt and pepper if desired. Top with nuts and serve.

March 10-April 6, 2021 EAT & DRINK

F RO M T H E S E AS O N E D SAG E

Lemon Hummus

Center on Church Street into a park with natural play spaces, colorful gardens, picnic areas, plenty of seating and an amphitheater for live performances.

The park will be ADA-accessible and friendly for all ages. Visit downtowntruckeepark.com for details. | Tickets truckeerotary.org

S TO RY & P H OTO S BY P R I YA H UT N E R

Enjoy

Drive-thru crab, pasta feed I

love lemons, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. This lemon hummus recipe is easy to make and great to have on hand in the fridge for lunch or snacks.

This hummus can be used as a dressing on a salad, as well. Lemon and garlic make this tangy hummus a perfect dip.  Cooking is a meditation for Priya, it is from that place she curates her menus and recipes to create delicious and nutritious meals for The Seasoned Sage, her company catering to client’s culinary preferences and dietary restrictions. She is also working on a series of cookbooks.

Visit her website at TheSeasonedSage.com or contact her at priya@theseasonedsage.com.

Lemon and garlic make this tangy hummus a perfect dip.

The Rotary Club of Truckee is hosting is annual Crab & Pasta Feed on March 20 with a drive-thru event to benefit the Truckee Downtown Park Project.

Tickets are on sale now for dinner that may be picked up between 4 and 6 p.m. on March 20 to be enjoyed at home with a virtual event starting at 7 p.m.

The park will transform a one-quarter acre lot next to the Community Arts

Inaugural jerky festival comes to Tahoe

The first Tahoe Jerky Festival will be held in the Village at Heavenly in August presented by @staylocal.tahoe.

Enjoy fresh beer, live music and plenty to chew on. Featuring some of the best local and nationally known jerky artisans, including vegan jerky. | jerkyfestival.com

Find more of Priya’s recipes

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

Lemon Hummus From the kitchen of: Priya Hutner 1½ C cooked dried chickpeas or 1 large can of garbanzo beans ½ C tahini 2 T extra virgin olive oil

be kind be calm be helpful

2 T fresh lemon juice 3-5 garlic cloves 1 t salt 1 t fresh ground pepper Water as needed to blend

In a food processor or blender, add the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and salt blend until smooth. Then add water as needed to blend and reach the desired consistency. Serve with crudité, pita bread or pita chips.

ChristyHill.com 115 Grove St., Tahoe City CA 530-583-8551 23

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E X P LO R E T H E

wines of Sicily

Fine Italian Food & Spirits

Creative American Cuisine in an Elegant Log Cabin

OPEN NIGHTLY

S TO RY BY L O U P H I L L I P S

Locals Love Lanza’s!

WITH OUR FULL MENU 5:00–8:00PM

(530) 546-2434 7739 N Lake Blvd - Kings Beach

9983 Cove St., Kings Beach, CA

530-546-7529 | souledomain.com

LanzasTahoe.com

I

n my last column, I extolled the wines of Rioja, Spain, and in this installment let’s take a virtual wine adventure to the Italian island of Sicily. Here we will take a deep dive into the unique and diverse wines of Italy’s Mediterranean gem.

Let’s begin with a climb up the slopes of Mount Etna, a volcano on Sicily’s east coast that was erupting as of press FEATURING: Slow-Roasted Prime Rib | Baby Back Ribs | Full Bar

Steaks | Seafood | Pasta | Gourmet Hamburgers | Kid’s Menu

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8338 NORTH LAKE BLVD., KINGS BEACH, CA

Kings Beach

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(530) 546-4539 8345 North Lake Blvd. - Across from the State Beach in Kings Beach

Level 3 (Advanced) Sommelier

Louis Phillips

NO-COST PROFIT CONSULT WineGuru123@gmail.com - (775) 544-3435 We Train Your Staff, Profitize Your Wine, Program, Represent Your Collection Sale and Make Your Fundraiser Money Don’t Get Taken When Selling Your Collectible Wines Most Wine Sales Programs Underachieve, We Can Fix That For You Make Your Non-Profit Fundraiser a Success

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Helping Businesses and Collectors Become More Successful for Over 30 Years

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theseasonedsage.com

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(772) 913- 0008

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personal menu

Explore Rioja’s tempranillos

at TheTahoeWeekly.com

time for this edition. Despite the island’s southern latitude and generally extremely hot climate, these high altitude vineyards enjoy cool evening temperature-shifts, that along with the influence of the volcanic soils, create a one-of-a-kind terroir. The specialty here is Etna Rosso, a red wine made primarily from the Nerello Mescalese grape. The red fruit components are wild in nature and held firm, but not overpowered by, a backbone of tannin and acid. These are food wines just right for the seafood, wild herbs and olive oil that are trademarks of Sicilian cuisine.

The most famous red wine from Sicily is Nero d’Avola, which is a bright wine that delivers a yummy palate of cocoa-dusted cherries and in higher-end versions a mineral streak that adds complexity.

Simple Nero d’Avolas make nice summersippers when served slightly chilled. The more complex ones are better food matches and dance wonderfully with grilled faire.

At the opposite end of Sicily lies the hot climate vineyards that are ideal for the multiple indigenous grapes of the Marsala region, which create the eponymously named wines. The fermentation and ageing are done at warm temperatures and the wines are fortified with grape brandy. Their styles

range from dry to semi-sweet and feature a salinity, and deeply roasted nutty quality that marries exceptionally well with briny seafood, such as clams and oysters.

At a recent tasting with my Italian Amicis, Jen and Ippolito, we matched Sicilian food with wines from the Cantine Florio Winery. They covered the three main styles of Marsala and delivered the wonderful savory-nuttiness, and a saline quality that reflects their seaside origin. Those labeled sweet tend to be

These are food wines just right for the seafood, wild herbs and olive oil that are trademarks of Sicilian cuisine. the youngest, and even though they have residual sugar, but one barely detects that as the spicy/savory/nutty qualities prevail.

Dry Marsalas have a more pronounced herbal side and shine when used as you would bitters. The top Marsalas are the Seccos, which are released after several years of ageing. These are the most mature and complex and usually quite dry, and bring evolved flavors that make for an exceptional postmeal sipping experience.

As a bonus, Marsalas are quite the bargain, ranging from $10 to $30. Perfect prices for your own tasting at home.  Lou Phillips is a Level 3 Advanced Sommelier in Tahoe and his consulting business wineprowest.com assists in the selling, buying and managing wine collections. He may be reached at (775) 544-3435 or wineguru123@gmail.com.

Baglio Florio; The modernity of Marsala. | Courtesy Cantine Florio Winery

March 10-April 6, 2021 EAT & DRINK

C O C K TA I LS O N

Brenda’s Balcony S TO RY & P H OTO S BY B R E N DA S I M P K I N S

Courtesy Town of Truckee

Cherry Lemon Drop

Feed Truckee program launched Keep Truckee Green has announced a new partnership with Truckee Sourdough Company and Sierra Community House to create Feed Truckee, a new food recovery program, according to a press release from the Town of Truckee.

Keep Truckee Green recruits and organizes volunteers to pick up surplus bread products from Truckee Sourdough and deliver them to Sierra Community House, a nonprofit that distributes food and fights hunger in the community.

Food rescue efforts are critical to reduce quantities of wasted food and address food insecurity, especially during COVID-19. Since the onset of the pandemic, Sierra Community House has seen demand for its Hunger Relief Services increase by 216 percent, going from serving 180 families per week to more than 550 families, according to the release. Meanwhile, 30 to 40 percent of food produced for human consumption in the United States is wasted.

Volunteer drivers are needed to deliver bread on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. | keeptruckeegreen.org

Truckee farmers’ market to return The Truckee Community Farmers Market will return this summer on Saturdays.

The market will be now be held in the Historic Downtown Railyard Parking Lot from June 5 to Sept. 4 on Saturdays from

8 a.m. to noon. Vendor applications are now being accepted.

Organized by Slow Food Lake Tahoe and Little Roots Farm, the mission of the Truckee Community Farmers Market is to support local farms and producers within 125 miles of the Town of Truckee. | truckeefarmersmarket.com

Cherry Lemon Drop cocktail. | Brenda Simpkins

A

good lemon drop can be the basis of so many different and wonderful flavor combinations. A Cherry Lemon Drop is one of my favorites.

Most of my drinks start with Tahoe Blue Vodka. I do not sugar the rim for this particular lemon drop as it is already pretty sweet.  South Lake Tahoe resident Brenda Simpkins started creating cocktails during the shutdown in 2020, which resulted in her book, “Cocktails on Brenda’s Balcony.”

The book was sponsored by Tahoe Blue Vodka and she is currently working on the second edition. | Cocktails on Brenda’s Balcony on Facebook

CHERRY LEMON DROP From the kitchen of Priya Hutner 3 oz. Tahoe Blue Vodka 3 oz. Simply Lemonade Splash of Maraschino Cherry Syrup Maraschino Cherries

Place the first three ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and pour into a martini glass. Drop 1 to 3 maraschino cherries into the bottom of the glass and garnish with a lemon wheel, if desired.

Sierra Community House Food Distribution We’re delivering perishable food bags weekly in Truckee & North Lake Tahoe.

Delivery staff and volunteers are following best practices and wearing masks. Please follow social distancing and NOT interact.

Famous for our Mexican Dinners (530) 587-3557 10186 Donner Pass Rd - Truckee

To sign-up or cancel, e-mail food@sierracommunityhouse.org or call 775-545-4083; Provide full name, address, phone number, birthdate and number of people in the household.

We are open for

TAKEOUT & OUTDOOR DINING INDOOR DINING COMING MID MARCH

HAPPY HOUR

5pm to 6pm daily | 5pm to 8pm on Tuesdays Open 10am weekdays, 9am Saturday & Sunday. Dinner from 5pm.

spindleshankstahoe.com 400 Brassie Ave. · Kings Beach · (530) 546.2191 25

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the tahoe foodie Dine-In

Outdoor Seating

Take-out

Delivery

Catering

Happy Hour

Private Parties

Disclaimer: Due to Covid and changing regulations please check with restaurants for hours and dining options.

This could be YOU

Spindleshanks KINGS BEACH

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$50 per issue

Call Anne for more information.

Anne Artoux (530) 546-5995, ext. 110 anne@tahoethisweek.com

8338 North Lake Blvd. | Kings Beach, CA (530) 546-3315 | jasonsbeachsidegrille.com

Tantalizing every taste bud from breakfast to dinner, Spindleshanks has been serving loyal diners on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe for 20 years.

Owner and Head Chef Steve Marks sources the freshest ingredients for his American dishes and draws upon the flavors of Asia, Europe and south of the border to make his dishes memorable.

400 Brassie Avenue, Suite B | Kings Beach, CA (530) 546-2191 | spindleshankstahoe.com

Fat Cat Bar and Grill All-Natural American

American

TAHOE CITY / RENO

KINGS BEACH

Jason’s Beachside Grille

Jason’s Beachside Grille located in the heart of King’s Beach in North Lake Tahoe is a family-friendly American restaurant offering lake views on our scenic lakefront deck and grassy sandbar area.

Savor American classics like prime rib, steaks, baked chicken, baby back ribs, salads, and more. Full bar and kid’s menu.

American Bar

“The local’s AND traveler’s favorite, Fat Cat Bar & Grill offers the best in fresh, quality ingredients from local and thoughtfully-sourced purveyors.

The restaurant boasts Niman Ranch all-natural beef, multiple protein options and premium craft cocktails in a relaxed ambience for the whole family. Daily happy hour specials, a vibrant nightlife and weekly events make Fat Cat the year-round choice for good fun and great food.

599 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe City. | 530) 583-3355 1401 S. Virginia St, Reno, NV | (775) 453-2223 fatcatrestaurants.com *Indoor/Outdoor dining & delivery at our Midtown location. *Lakeview outdoor dining & takeout at our Tahoe City location.

8345 North Lake Blvd. | Kings Beach, CA (530) 546-4539 | laspanchitas.com

KINGS BEACH

Sandwich Shop

With a beautiful, Tahoe lakefront view and 82 all-natural, uniquely crafted hot and cold subs, Chub’s Subs has become a new local favorite!

Open for lunch and dinner, Chub’s offers a variety of options, including gluten-free, vegan, & vegetarian-friendly subs! All ingredients are natural & come on a freshly baked, Rounds Bakery soft sourdough roll. Stop by to try your tasty sub inside, on our outdoor patio, or to-go.

8421 N Lake Blvd. | Kings Beach, CA (530) 553-1820 | chubssubs.com Through GrubHub

TRUCKEE

Tahoe’s premier dining experience, the restaurant sits just 100 feet above the shoreline of Lake Tahoe offering diners a panoramic vista. Using the freshest and finest seasonal ingredients, Christy Hill offers Modern American cuisine with refined Mediterranean influences. Diners enjoy a chance to explore fine wines from around the world with an extensive list that has received a Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence” since 1982.

115 Grove St. | Tahoe City, CA (530) 583-8551 | christyhill.com

The Seasoned Sage is available to prepare dinners for your family, host your next dinner party or cater your special event specializing in themed-dinner parties, Ethnic cuisine, simple elegant meals, healthy organic dinners, or diet-conscious cuisine. We design and create dinners for all occasion and take the stress out of entertaining.

Specializing in Asian Fusion, Vegetarian, Vegan, and Mediterranean.

KINGS BEACH

Italian

Lanza’s is a family-owned Italian restaurant located in Kings Beach/Tahoe Vista in North Lake Tahoe. Known for delicious, traditional, Italian dishes and huge portions. With a kid’s menu, gluten-free menu and full bar, it’s no wonder Locals Love Lanza’s.

7739 North Lake Blvd. | Kings Beach, CA (530) 546-2434 | lanzastahoe.com

Soule Domain

Creative American

The Soule Domain proudly uses natural, free range, and organic meats and poultry whenever possible. Our local, seasonal produce offers the highest quality of ingredients in our dishes. Chef and owner Charlie Soule brings passionate culinary skills to create twists to traditional dishes while infusing them with influences from around the globe.

9983 Cove St. (Stateline Dr.) | Kings Beach, CA 530.546.7529 | souledomain.com

Louis Phillips

Meal Delivery

Truckee, CA (772) 913-0008 | theseasonedsage.com

26

CRYSTAL BAY / KINGS BEACH

10186 Donner Pass Rd. | Truckee, CA (530) 587-3557 | etbtruckee.com

The Seasoned Sage

Modern American

Lanza’s Restaurant

Mexican

Located in historic Truckee, El Toro Bravo has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine and cocktails since 1988. El Toro Bravo both in Capitola (50 years) and Truckee (28 years) were started by Delia “Grandma” Rey. Creating a menu from recipes that she grew up with, El Toro Bravo is now into its third and fourth generations as family-owned and run restaurants. When you enter El Toro Bravo you are coming into our home and treated as family. Benvenidos y Gracias!

Chub’s Subs

TAHOE CITY

Las Panchitas is a family-owned establishment serving traditional Mexican food to locals and visitors to Lake Tahoe since 1982. From tacos and fajitas to a long list of house specials, Las Panchitas serves up meals that are satisfyingly delicious and easy on the wallet. Wash your meal down with a frosty margarita.

El Toro Bravo TRUCKEE

Christy Hill

Fine Mexican

LAKE TAHOE

KINGS BEACH

Las Panchitas

Sommelier Services

Lou Phillips is a Level 3 Sommelier offering Sommelier Services to a variety of clients including establishing wine collections, representing your collection sale, staff training and more.

Tahoe & Truckee (775) 544-3435 | wineguru123@gmail.com

Disclaimer: Due to Covid and changing regulations please check with restaurants for hours and dining options.