Squaw Offers Free Guided Hikes Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday

[Olympic Valley, Calif.] July 27, 2012 – New this summer, Squaw Valley is offering free guided hikes on the upper mountain, held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. The guided hikes, which last about one hour, leave from High Camp, elevation 8,200 feet, and travel across Squaw Valley’s mountaintop meadow. Amidst breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountain peaks, Squaw’s hiking guides identify the vibrant wildflowers currently blooming in the meadow and point out native flora, fauna and wildlife along the hike.

Squaw’s guided hikes are completely free with the purchase of an Aerial Tram ticket to High Camp. Squaw’s Aerial Tram ascends 2,000 vertical feet on its trip up the mountain and offers spectacular views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range. Tram tickets are $29 for adults, $22 for youth and seniors, and $10 for kids 12 and under. The guided hikes leave from the grassy area just outside the High Camp building. For more information or to sign up, guests can call (530) 452-7273. Reservations are not required for the guided hikes.

In addition to hiking, guests at Squaw Valley can explore a wide variety of family activities once at High Camp. Activities include swimming in Squaw’s mountaintop pool, dining, roller skating, paintball, disc golf and geocaching. More information about all of Squaw’s activities can be found at squaw.com or by calling 1-800-403-0206.
Groups of 20 of more looking to enjoy Squaw’s guided hikes or High Camp activities are eligible for discounted Tram tickets. For more information or to book group tickets, please call (530) 584-6221 or email egodwin@squaw.com. Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows season passholders are entitled to free Tram tickets all summer long.

Squaw Hosts Mountaintop Campout During Perseid Meteor Shower

Families can watch the sky light up at the Perseid Meteor Shower Campout on August 13

[Olympic Valley, Calif.] July 26, 2012 – Friends and families can camp under the stars on Monday, August 13 and watch the night sky light-up during the Perseid Meteor Shower at the best viewing location in Lake Tahoe. Squaw Valley's Perseid Meteor Shower Campout will take place at High Camp at elevation 8200 feet, where guests watch the spectacular meteor shower and enjoy amazing views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada.

The Perseids come every year beginning in late July and stretching into August. Among the many nights of the shower, there is always the one night that the viewing of the shower is at its best. This year, that evening falls on Monday, August 13. On this night, sky watchers can witness colorful fireballs, occasional outbursts and long hours of gracefully streaking meteors.

Perseid Meteor Shower campers can upload Squaw’s Aerial Tram between 4:20 p.m. and 5:20 p.m. After setting up camp on the mountaintop, there will be an informational briefing on telescopes with meteor shower viewing beginning at 10 p.m. In the morning campers will enjoy a continental breakfast from 6:45 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. before downloading on the Tram.

Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-403-0206. Prices for the Perseid Metor Shower Campout are $79 for adults and $54 for kids. Price includes Tram ride, professional stargazing instruction, camping and continental breakfast. Reservations for the Perseid Meteor Shower Campout are required as this event does sell out. Registrants will receive a detailed information packet along with confirmation.

Campout Schedule:

4:20 p.m. to 5:20 p.m. - Camper upload (Tram to run every 20 minutes until 5:20 p.m.)
5 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Camp set up (Please note that dinner will not be available after 3:30 p.m. Guests wishing to dine may bring a cooler or arrive early)
6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. – The Earth is a Peppercorn: A Guided Walk Through the Solar System (optional)
8 p.m. - The Sky Tonight: Meteors, Planets and More: Perseid Meteor Shower Discussion and Camping Overview
10 p.m. to 5 a.m. - Camping and Perseid viewing
6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. - Camp breakdown
6:45 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. - Continental breakfast
8 a.m., 8:20 a.m., 9 a.m. – Tram downloads

Price:

Adults (16 +): $79
Young Adults & Children (15 & under):  $54
Price includes Tram ride, professional stargazing instruction, camping and continental breakfast.

Top Jazz and Funk Acts Come to Squaw for the 11th Annual Brews, Jazz and Funk Fest

Festival to take place August 11-12 at The Village at Squaw Valley

[Olympic Valley, Calif.] July 24, 2012 – Cold beers and hot music will come together this August at Squaw Valley for the 11th Annual Brews, Jazz and Funk Fest to support the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe. Some of the nation’s most recognized jazz and funk legends will perform under the peaks of Squaw Valley, including headlining acts Orgone and Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk. The Brews, Jazz and Funk Fest will take place on August 11 and August 12 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. in The Village at Squaw Valley.

Festival goers can listen to continuous live jazz and funk music on two stages while sampling beers from more than 20 breweries including Deschutes, Lagunitas, Sierra Nevada and many more. Beers are $4 each, limited to ages 21 and older. A $5 entry donation to the festival is also requested. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe. 

The festival is open to all ages with well behaved dogs welcome on leashes. Kids can enjoy additional activities such as an 18-hole miniature golf course, sky jump bungee trampoline, plus swimming, roller skating, paintball and hiking at High Camp, elevation 8200 feet. For activity pricing, please see squaw.com.

Saturday, August 11

2 p.m. – The Lee Boys
The Lee Boys are one of America's finest African-American sacred steel ensembles. This family group consists of three brothers, Alvin Lee (guitar), Derrick Lee and Keith Lee (vocals) along with their three nephews, Roosevelt Collier (pedal steel guitar), Alvin Cordy Jr. (seven-string bass) and Earl Walker (drums). www.leeboys.com

3:30 p.m. and 5:50 p.m (Second Stage) – Mojo Green
Mojo Green is a collective of individuals whose musical mission is to move the people on the dance floor with their horn driven, Funkajazzadelic dance grooves. The journey is never over, it is always just the beginning. Mojo Funk delivers a non-stop, high-energy funk freight train at every show. www.mojogreenmusic.com/about

4 p.m. – The Robert Walter Trio
Robert Walter has built a reputation as one of America's heaviest jazz-funk keyboardists. Walter has performed and recorded with such jazz and funk heavyweights as Fred Wesley, Gary Bartz, Skerik, Melvin Sparks, Andy Bey, Reuben Wilson, Harvey Mason, Red Holloway, Chuck Rainey, Phil Upchurch, Mike Clark, Johnny Vidacovich and Steve Kimock. robertwalter.com

6 p.m. – Orgone (Headlining Act)
Pronounced with a long second “O,” the Los Angeles band Orgone is dedicated to heavy, raw, adrenaline-fueled funk and sweat-dripping soul. Armed with a new album and a take-no-prisoners live show, the band continues to evolve and redefine funk, taking, in the words of Dusty Groove America, “a rough, rugged, and uber soulful live funk vibe into a deeper and even livelier realm.” www.orgonespace.com


Sunday, August 12

2 p.m. – On the Spot Trio
On The Spot is exactly where these three musicians stand when they settle into a heavy funk-laden groove. Formed in July 2006, O.T.S. Trio mixes classic funky soul jazz stylings with modern jazz improvisational chops to create a psychedelic dance party for the ages. www.otstrio.com

3:30 p.m. and 5:50 p.m. (Second Stage) – Jellybread
Jelly Bread is a tour de force of full frontal funk, thoroughly steeped in a Rock-Americana style with a rollicking indie alt-rock radio appeal.  Their mix of in-the-pocket drum and bass grooves, swampy lap steel guitar, dirt under the fingernails guitar licks, and take-’em-to-church organ is downright appetizing—bright colors and sweet, funky flavors. www.reverbnation.com/jellybread

4 p.m. – George Porter Jr. and His Runnin’ Pardners
A member of the original Meters considered by many to be the founding fathers of funk, Porter has proven to be capable of the ultimate fusion of rock, funk and R&B. Runnin' Pardners is George Porter Jr.'s own unique long term project. Well respected by audiences and promoters as a quintessential New Orleans band, the five piece touring band continues to receive accolades on the jam band and festival scene. georgeporterjr.com

6 p.m. – Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk (Headlining Act)
The son of Aaron Neville, Ivan Neville has played in Bonnie Raitt's band and was on The Rolling Stones' Dirty Work LP. His debut album landed a Top 40 pop hit with "Not Just Another Girl." In 2003, Neville formed Dumpstaphunk and appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman. When the levees failed in New Orleans in 2005, Neville joined The New Orleans Social Club and recorded the benefit album Sing Me Back Home. Neville's searing version of John Fogerty's "Fortunate Son" was critically acclaimed. "Catharsis never sounded cooler," raved Entertainment Weekly. www.dumpstaphunk.com

Squaw Hosts Mountaintop Full Moon Party During Brightest Full Moon of the Summer

Squaw's Full Moon Party will go off on August 2 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Squaw’s upper mountain

[Olympic Valley, Calif.] July 23, 2012 – New this summer, Squaw Valley is excited to host the resort’s first Full Moon Party at High Camp on Thursday, August 2. Slated to take place amidst the brightest full moon of the summer, the party will feature a line-up of five DJs playing from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. on the mountaintop. Party goers will be able to watch the brilliant full moon rise over Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, and dance under the night sky as the stars come out.

DJs will be playing at the Terrace Bar overlooking Lake Tahoe and Silverado Canyon, and on the pool deck with views of the Palisades and High Camp meadow. DJs playing at the Full Moon Party include DJ Zeb Early, DJ Coop Da Loop, DJ Mancub of the Space Cowboys, DJ Aaron Pope and DJ Flook. Art Car “Monkey Bomb” will also be performing at the base of the resort as party-goers load the Tram to go up the mountain. 2012-13 Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows season passholders will receive $3 off all Crystal Head vodka drinks.

The Full Moon Party is restricted to ages 21 and over. Tickets are $29 and include the ride up to the party on Squaw’s Aerial Tram (a $29 value in itself). Tickets can be purchased online at squaw.com/fullmoonparty.  Last download from the party will be at 2 a.m. No camping or outside alcohol will be permitted.


About Squaw Valley
Host of the 1960 Winter Olympics, Squaw Valley is a year-round mountain destination offering world-class adventures in every season. In summer, Squaw’s scenic Aerial Tram transports guests to elevation 8,200 feet to experience an array of exciting activities in a spectacular mountain setting including swimming, hiking, roller skating and paintball. At the base of the mountain, Squaw’s vibrant Village offers shopping, al fresco dining, and music festivals all summer long.

For great summer lodging packages, call 1-866-366-7261 or visit squaw.com.

Lake Tahoe Winter Games Exploratory Committee Unveils New Board of Directors

Following USOC Announcement, LTWGEC Looks to Future Games

Concurrent Focus on Bringing World Class Sporting Events to Lake Tahoe, Northern California and Reno, Nevada

[Olympic Valley, Calif.] July 18, 2012 – The Lake Tahoe Winter Games Exploratory Committee (LTWGEC) announced additional members of its Board of Directors today after convening its inaugural meeting in Olympic Valley, California last Friday. Members of the board unanimously supported that the organization turn its attention to the next available (when the United States Olympics Committee (USOC) decides to bid) Winter Olympic games while simultaneously focusing its efforts on attracting world class sporting events to the region in preparation for a potential bid.

The board of the LTWGEC is comprised of Nevadans and Californians who have come together to create a bi-state effort focused on creating the environment for a potential Olympic bid.

The LTWGEC’s actions came on the heels of the announcement by the USOC that it would not be bidding on the 2022 Winter Olympics. The USOC said that it would instead make a decision in the Fall regarding mounting an American bid for either the Summer 2024 or Winter 2026 Olympics.

“The LTWGEC strongly supports and endorses the USOC’s decision to delay the U.S. bid for future Olympic Games,” said Andy Wirth, CEO of Squaw/Alpine and acting chair of the board of directors for the LTWGEC. “We feel the decision puts Lake Tahoe in a much stronger position to be the host of the next Winter Olympic Games in North America, whenever that is.”

Last Friday, the LTWGEC held its inaugural meeting with its new board of directors.

“We are very proud to have such an esteemed group of Californians and Nevadans coming together to create a truly bi-state effort here in our region,” said Wirth. “Our region – from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe to Reno - has the right combination of venues and physical splendor to make it one the world’s great destinations for Winter sports and this committee is dedicating itself to that ideal.”

In the coming weeks, the LTWGEC will make a series of announcements about the committee’s goals, its dedication to the region’s glorious physical environment, its commitment to working with all the local communities in the area and additional board members.

"Stay tuned as we’re just getting started but this is an important first step,” Wirth continued. “We’re going to work with our neighbors, our community members, and create something truly special for the region.”

A full list of the board members is below.  The Board will be adding new members in the coming weeks.

Board of Directors of the Lake Tahoe Winter Games Exploratory Committee:

James Beckwith
Blaise Carrig
Andy Gabel
Brett Hedican
Gail Jaquish
Ben Keighran
Atan Laichandani
Lt. Governor Brian Krolicki
Jonny Moseley
Hawley McClean
Tamara McKinney
Peter Ragone
Anne Madden Rice
Phil Satre
Isabelle Rodriguez Wilson
Andy Wirth
Patrick Wright
Kristi Yamaguchi

Statement from Andy Wirth regarding today's decision by the USOC:

"Over the past few months, a talented and inspired group of Nevadans and Californians have come together to explore the possibility of hosting the Winter Olympics in Lake Tahoe in 2022."

"We have always understood that our efforts were contingent upon the USOC's determination about whether or not to pursue a bid."

"In light of the decision announced today by the leadership of the USOC, we respect our nation's Olympic Committee and their decisions, without reservation."

"The Lake Tahoe region is one of America's greatest natural gems, and we believe that its place as a Winter sports destination remains unparalleled.   While the USOC has chosen not to pursue the 2022 Winter Olympics, I believe, as does our board of directors, that we have laid the groundwork for a return of the Olympic Flame to this region and to our very own Olympic Valley in the future."

Andy Wirth is president and CEO of Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows and the chairman and president of the Lake Tahoe Winter Olympic Committee Board of Directors.

The Village at Squaw Valley Hosts the 11th Annual Art, Wine & Music Festival on July 14 & 15

Exceptional wineries and world-renowned guitarists including Celso Machado come to Squaw Valley

[Olympic Valley, Calif.] July 3, 2012 – This July, Squaw Valley welcomes the return of the Art, Wine and Music Festival with exquisite artwork, fine wine and internationally acclaimed classical and world guitar music. Now in its second year of partnership with the Sierra Nevada Classical Guitar Society, the event is truly a delight for the senses. The festival will take place Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in The Village at Squaw Valley.

The Art, Wine and Music Festival has become one of the most popular events for those who like to savor the finer things in life while enjoying the best Mother Nature has to offer. Talented artists and craft persons, musicians and performers gather at the base of Squaw Valley to showcase their creativity in the resort’s pristine alpine setting.

From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. each day, wine lovers can sample offerings from 18 wineries, including Zaca Mesa Winery, Lola Kay Wines, Domun Estate, Masut, Hatcher and Yorba.

Other featured wineries include Moniz Family Wines, Tierra Divina Vineyards, White Hart and Fillini Wine Company, Vias Italian Imports, Rubissow Winery, Twisted Rivers, Lone Buffalo Vineyards, Arbios Cellars, Praxis Cellars and Six Sigma.

While tasting wine under the peaks of Squaw Valley, visitors can admire the fine art and crafts of over 30 artists.  The exhibition features artwork that spans the mediums, including gorgeous paintings, photography and jewelry.

Art, wine and music aficionados can experience free outdoor concerts by some of the world’s most accomplished classical and world guitarists. The festival features concerts on each day with noteworthy acts including the Celso Machado and Friends, Thakur Chakrapani Singh, Rene Izquierdo, Connie Sheu, Giacomo Fiore, March Teicholz, Samantha Wells and Larry Aynesmith.

The festival also caters to kids with additional activities such as an 18-hole miniature golf course, jewelry and pottery making, sky jump bungee trampoline, plus swimming, roller skating, paintball and hiking at High Camp, elevation 8,200 feet. For activity pricing, see www.squaw.com.

Entrance to the festival is free. Wine tasting is $25 each day and includes a commemorative festival wine glass. All proceeds benefit Disabled Sports USA Far West.

For more summer event information, visit www.squaw.com.

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		HUGE 4TH OF JULY SKI AND SNOWBOARD GEAR SALE Be sure to stop by the Truckee High School parking lot, today through July 5th from 9:00 am to 5:00pm each day, for unreal savings on skis, boards, gear, clothing, accessories and more. Top name brands at ridiculously cool prices. Check out some of the deals here >>>
		KIDS ADVENTURE DAY CAMPS Two fun-filled weeks of summertime adventure camps, with three different programs tailor-fit for ages 4-6, 7-10 and 11-14. Where some of the best memories are made…learn more here.
		LAKE MARY CABIN DINNER SERIES Join us this summer for French-inspired California cuisine (and an impressive wine list) out on the recently enhanced deck at the Lake Mary Cabin. Saturday and Sunday evenings from July 22-September 16th, with a portion of each Sunday night’s proceeds benefiting a different local non-profit organization. For menu, directions, non-profit partners and reservations info (highly recommended) click here.