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!!