A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Need I say more? Thank you, Pacific Storm!

50 Year Storm to Hit this Winter?

This summer has seen strange weather, but rather than be annoyed by it, I thought it would be more prudent to talk about what the cold rain in June, and hot temps in July might mean: El Nino! Yes, it's been the buzz-word all summer, but according to meteorologists, the funky early start to our summer could actually mean that a well-constructed El Nino phenomenon is happening. In the past, El Nino winters have meant everything from a dry winter to wet, flood-like winters. But it can also mean enormous amounts of snow! And if our early start to this phenomenon means anything, we could very well have a "50 year" storm on our hands this season. Great news for all who bought into Squaw's killer pass deal this year! Winter is just a few short months away, and I'm on the edge of my seat already! Show us what you got, El Nino!

Truckee doesn't escape High Temps

As I drove away from Squaw Valley's Art and Wine Festival yesterday, at 6:00 pm, my car temperature gauge read 93 degrees. "What????" I knew it was hot, as indicated by the smaller turnout this year for wine aficionados, but 93? Really? That got me curious about our weather history, so I thought I would share this tidbit of information I found on our local weather guru Mark Mclaughlin's website:
Our average high temperature in the Truckee region in July from 1961-1990 was 81.2 degrees. I've had a hard time compiling the data from July 2009, but I would reckon to guess that our average high this month to date would be around 87-88 degrees. I'm just spit-balling here, but with another 5 days forecasted to be in the high 80's to low 90's, I'd say that this is one of the hottest months I can recall since I moved here 18 years ago! Global warming or just natural climate change? The jury's still out on my end, but regardless, I think this unusually hot weather reminds us all that no matter our viewpoint, it's a good thing to take care of our planet. Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, People!

Easter reminds us of a New Life

The Truckee/Lake Tahoe community has been dealt many tough blows over the past 6 weeks. With several deaths of friends and loved ones, a tragic bus accident that took one life and sent dozens more to the hospital (all employees of The Resort and Squaw Creek), and a continual slide into economic decline, our neighbors and friends are suffering emotionally and financially. We couldn't ask for support sooner. I am a Christian, and, as such, truly look forward to the celebration of Easter, and it's meaning. Despite the hardships and heartache that we are all experiencing, I can find hope and joy in the days ahead. I consider my lifestyle, and recognize the opportunity to slow things down a bit, buy less, offer more to others, and simplify. Yes, times are tough. But I look forward to the future, to the chance to reveal to others how love, hope, faith and grace can be life-changing instruments-they can carry us through this difficult time. Happy Easter.

Freeride World Tour comes to Squaw Tram Face!

While everyone's thinking of SnowFest and it's opening ceremonies this Friday night, another unique event is occuring: Squaw Valley will host the only American location for the Freeride World Tour, a freeski challenge with athletes from all over the world. The venue for this spectacular event is none other than the infamous Tram Face, normally closed to the public for skiing. Aside from a few skiers with cojones and great night vision, as well as a couple of others who feel like they need to "stick it to the wo-man", this area sees little to no ski or board contact. Making things even hairier, our recent weather trend is sure to expose some interesting terrain features that weren't present just last week. If you enjoy watching risk-takers, this contest is one to check out for sure. And if you don't even like great skiing, there is also a street fair and free music to boot, on both Friday and Saturday. So bring your lawn chairs, we'll see you in the parking lot for the main event! http://www.tramface.com/en/index.php

Tahoe Rim Trail offers Winter Activities and Education

If you're familiar with the Tahoe Basin, then you've probably heard of the Tahoe Rim Trail-a recently completed 165 mile trail around the lake that offers spectacular views, a variety of terrain, and many trailheads and exits for short day hikes. But did you know that TahoeRimTrail.org offers winter activities as well? This year you can take a course on Winter Camping (in February-March), or learn more about Winter Navigation skills, or even gather the family up for guided snow-shoe hikes. Full moon snowshoe hikes are also available, for the adventuresome. Getting involved in an organization like the Tahoe Rim Trail Association (TRTA) is a satisfying way to experience our beautiful Sierras. I urge you to check out their website; they also offer volunteer opportunities year-round, so if you're not a skier or snow-lover, come back in the summer and give back to the land you love so much!

Rahlves Rejoins US Ski Team

But he won't be bashing gates this time. Daron is back on the team, this time to compete in the skiercross forum, with his sights set on the 2010 Winter Olympics in Whistler, B.C. The U.S.'s "winningest" Downhill and Super G skier in history, and a Hahnenkamm downhill champion in 2003, Daron also showed his stuff in the latest work from Warren Miller, Children of Winter; but now this one-time alpine team racer has rejoined the fold of the national team to chase victory on the ski cross circuit. Although Ski Cross is the one of the newest events in the Olympics, Daron's past 2 years on the Jeep King of the Mountain tour, the Honda Ski tour, and last year's 48 Straight, as well as competing in 2 X-Games, should definately provide him with a strong experience platform from which to launch into the sights of many sports fans again in 2010. I wish him the best of luck, and a healthy season this winter!

"Twenty Two" opens in the Village at Squaw Valley

Occupying the space that used to be Balboa, Twenty-Two Bistro & Bar is another one of the Village at Squaw’s latest dining additions. Billy McCollough, chef and owner of the Dragonfly restaurant, in Historic Downtown Truckee, is the proprietor and head Chef at Squaw's hippest new eatery, and he brings a very similar Asian flair to this location as well. The cozy space, half-moon shape, and spot lighting create an energetic atmosphere, even when the bar/restaurant is not full, and if you've ever eaten at Dragonfly, you'll be sure to be pleased with the menu at Twenty Two. In addition to his famous Cal Asian sure-fires, like seared ahi salad, you will find "sliders" (mini burgers served in pairs) and other apres-ski friendly delights to fill those empty stomachs. A full bar will also be available for the casual diner, offering locals the famous "PBR" in addition to microbrews, international wines and signature drinks. With a price range between $9 and $15, Twenty Two is a worthwhile dining experience in Squaw Valley!

Uncle E turns 40!!

A personal note goes out today, to my friend and personal ab trainer, Chris "Uncle E" Ernst. This weekend marks the 40th year of Chris' life, and boy, what a life it has been! Uncle E was a staple in the Tahoe area for over a decade, with his exuberance and willingness to dip his fingers into any entreprenuerial design he deemed worthy, and made dreams come true. Jumping on board the Coors Light freestyle tour in the early 90's, without much of an invite, Chris quickly showed all around him that he was more than just an able aerialist...he could talk, too! And boy, could he talk. He shaped this talent to pull comments out where no comment has been before, and before long, he was not only announcing his own events (Lord of the Boards, The Gambler, Mayhem with Moseley), but he soon caught the attention of major networks, and found himself announcing at the mother of all sports events, the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City. What a joy to see him there, standing on course at the moguls event, wearing one of his silly hats (of which he has 100's), announcing to the world...truly a sight to be seen. I may speak for myself, but am positive that hundreds of people concur, life has been much more entertaining with Chris Ernst in it, and I am so thankful to have met him, enjoyed time spent with him and his family, and laughed with him...Thank you Chris, you are truly a light unto this world! Happy Birthday!!