Congratulations to all Participating Athletes
The 2010 Winter Games XXI will always be recalled as those that showcased the talents of many Tahoe area residents. This bodes well for the future of local ski areas that are called home by these world class winter sportsmen and women. Their experiences will provide long term support for all promising winter sport athletes.
Our hats are off to salute you!!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Rumor Control
Rumor Control Officer
As minister of information, it is the duty of the RCO to verify persistent rumors that affect local Tahomans. Recently, a rumor has surfaced that Grammy award winner Taylor Swift is building a lakefront cottage at the end of Pine St. This rumor is false. County records and on scene conversations with framers provide ample evidence of ownership. Ms. Swift is not on title.
Bear Sighting
Mayor's office rec'd a call of a bear sighting near Northridge Parkway in Glenridge subdiv. After responding, it was determined to be a local canine(large) with long, bear-like fur. Case closed.
Control burns
Forest service personnel conducted 2 burns this week vic. Sugar Pine Pk. Good efforts were noted.
Auto Crash
A 2 vehicle crash occurred IFO PDQ this week w/ minor injuries. MBF responded.
A word of caution: slow down when conditions change! Better to arrive safely, than not at all.
As minister of information, it is the duty of the RCO to verify persistent rumors that affect local Tahomans. Recently, a rumor has surfaced that Grammy award winner Taylor Swift is building a lakefront cottage at the end of Pine St. This rumor is false. County records and on scene conversations with framers provide ample evidence of ownership. Ms. Swift is not on title.
Bear Sighting
Mayor's office rec'd a call of a bear sighting near Northridge Parkway in Glenridge subdiv. After responding, it was determined to be a local canine(large) with long, bear-like fur. Case closed.
Control burns
Forest service personnel conducted 2 burns this week vic. Sugar Pine Pk. Good efforts were noted.
Auto Crash
A 2 vehicle crash occurred IFO PDQ this week w/ minor injuries. MBF responded.
A word of caution: slow down when conditions change! Better to arrive safely, than not at all.
Week of new snow
Resorts rejoice
After a week of periodic light snow conditions, Friday was the payoff day. Over 12' fell @ lake level, and well over 2' of powder above 7000'. Saturday was payoff day as weekend warriors were rewarded with excellent conditions. Homewood resort featured a moguls course on the lower lakeside face. Donner summit resorts were well groomed and crowds were non existent as the clouds broke up and the sun shone through. A classic ski weekend for those who made the effort. The Firesign restaurant was solid with customers seeking their noteworthy breakfast delights.
Tahoma Business Notes
Obexers'Gen Store has reopened under new ownership. New partners have invigorated the sight with new ideas wrapped in a well known package under the Obexer family logo. With WiFi, espresso machine, deli counter, and new seating area, they are ready to go. Open only 2 weeks, they are still getting settled in, but, they are fully functioning. Good Luck Obexers'.
Arriverderci Aroma
After 3 years of successful seasons, Tahoma Aroma has closed its doors. Sadly, owners Sherm and Nan are moving on. The recession has been felt throughout the state, but especially so in seasonal resort areas. The Norfolk Hotel with the master lease is for sale and the owners are in no position to negotiate new terms. We wish them well, and will fondly recall their exceptional services to all members of the Tahoma community. The mayor's office will begin a search for a new location in the vicinity.
After a week of periodic light snow conditions, Friday was the payoff day. Over 12' fell @ lake level, and well over 2' of powder above 7000'. Saturday was payoff day as weekend warriors were rewarded with excellent conditions. Homewood resort featured a moguls course on the lower lakeside face. Donner summit resorts were well groomed and crowds were non existent as the clouds broke up and the sun shone through. A classic ski weekend for those who made the effort. The Firesign restaurant was solid with customers seeking their noteworthy breakfast delights.
Tahoma Business Notes
Obexers'Gen Store has reopened under new ownership. New partners have invigorated the sight with new ideas wrapped in a well known package under the Obexer family logo. With WiFi, espresso machine, deli counter, and new seating area, they are ready to go. Open only 2 weeks, they are still getting settled in, but, they are fully functioning. Good Luck Obexers'.
Arriverderci Aroma
After 3 years of successful seasons, Tahoma Aroma has closed its doors. Sadly, owners Sherm and Nan are moving on. The recession has been felt throughout the state, but especially so in seasonal resort areas. The Norfolk Hotel with the master lease is for sale and the owners are in no position to negotiate new terms. We wish them well, and will fondly recall their exceptional services to all members of the Tahoma community. The mayor's office will begin a search for a new location in the vicinity.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Snow Falling on Tweeters
Westshore Fans Cheer Locals
It's hard to find a business in the basin that is not overflowing with avid fans of the Vancouver Olympics and what it means to skiers, boarders, skaters, Nordic and Alpine participants, and of course, hockey players. The list of successful locals continues to grow: Julia Mancuso, the Italian-American queen on Tahoe skiers, has delighted those who have followed her stellar for several years. Recently overshadowed by teammate Lindsey Vonn, Julia has performed at the loftiest of lofty positions the entire week, overcoming rapidly changing Whistler conditions to achieve medal worthy performances. Brava signorina!
Lindsey Vonn continues to excite fans across the globe as she performs as expected and adds a little glamour to the venue.
Apolo Ohno is doing his best, showing maturity and poise of a seasoned veteran. To the obvious delight of his watchful father and mentor, he has added to his medal weight.
One more week of world class performances is anticipated by worldwide fans.
Did anyone see the 2-man bobsled mishaps? Not much control in a chute at 75mph. The absence of serious injury here is astounding.
Report from Minister Of Foreign Affairs posted in Sao Paolo, Brasil
The weather is warm and humid:86deg F. and 90%humidity. Carnaval is over and the city remains calm and relieved. Rio is another story.
It's hard to find a business in the basin that is not overflowing with avid fans of the Vancouver Olympics and what it means to skiers, boarders, skaters, Nordic and Alpine participants, and of course, hockey players. The list of successful locals continues to grow: Julia Mancuso, the Italian-American queen on Tahoe skiers, has delighted those who have followed her stellar for several years. Recently overshadowed by teammate Lindsey Vonn, Julia has performed at the loftiest of lofty positions the entire week, overcoming rapidly changing Whistler conditions to achieve medal worthy performances. Brava signorina!
Lindsey Vonn continues to excite fans across the globe as she performs as expected and adds a little glamour to the venue.
Apolo Ohno is doing his best, showing maturity and poise of a seasoned veteran. To the obvious delight of his watchful father and mentor, he has added to his medal weight.
One more week of world class performances is anticipated by worldwide fans.
Did anyone see the 2-man bobsled mishaps? Not much control in a chute at 75mph. The absence of serious injury here is astounding.
Report from Minister Of Foreign Affairs posted in Sao Paolo, Brasil
The weather is warm and humid:86deg F. and 90%humidity. Carnaval is over and the city remains calm and relieved. Rio is another story.
Monday, February 15, 2010
MInister's Mission
At The Airport
The Mayor and some of the staff went to SFO to join a send off to Brasil of the Minister Of Latin American Affairs of Tahoma. Senor B. Allejandro was in excellent spirits as he embarked on this very important mission to the Land Of Lula. Lula of cousre, is Pres. Inazio Lula De Silva, the 2nd term president of the new rising star of the southern hemisphere. Planes are increasingly filled with government officials, engineers, oil company geologists, roughnecks, maritime crew members, and bankers, and of course, lawyers to keep everybody honest. For over 100 years, oil and everything about it has brought men and the promise of riches to the oil bearing grounds wherever they may be.
Brasil is no exception. With a little luck, some of the wealth will reach the masses of Brasilianos, those in desparate need of a helping hand. Lula might just be that helping hand personified. He appears to have broken the Latin American mold of powerful leader disguised as a man of the people. He seems content to relinguish power at the end of his term. This is so contrary a concept in any South American country. He hasn't even asked the CIA to stir up a Communist rebel force that needs surpressing to save the country for "Democracy".
So, the minister has his work cut out for him. With a limited budget and zero staff, the minister will be forwarding reports back to Tahoma to keep the Mayor informed of all the latest doings in Brasilia, the capitol of this surging Latin Tigre.
Because of the events of Carnavale, the minister has taken vacation for the first week of his mission. This is with the full consent of the Mayor. Please, no comments from jealous drones required to carry on regular duties in your rabbit warrens here at home.
Buon Viaggio, Senor Alejandro!! Viva Brasile.
The Mayor and some of the staff went to SFO to join a send off to Brasil of the Minister Of Latin American Affairs of Tahoma. Senor B. Allejandro was in excellent spirits as he embarked on this very important mission to the Land Of Lula. Lula of cousre, is Pres. Inazio Lula De Silva, the 2nd term president of the new rising star of the southern hemisphere. Planes are increasingly filled with government officials, engineers, oil company geologists, roughnecks, maritime crew members, and bankers, and of course, lawyers to keep everybody honest. For over 100 years, oil and everything about it has brought men and the promise of riches to the oil bearing grounds wherever they may be.
Brasil is no exception. With a little luck, some of the wealth will reach the masses of Brasilianos, those in desparate need of a helping hand. Lula might just be that helping hand personified. He appears to have broken the Latin American mold of powerful leader disguised as a man of the people. He seems content to relinguish power at the end of his term. This is so contrary a concept in any South American country. He hasn't even asked the CIA to stir up a Communist rebel force that needs surpressing to save the country for "Democracy".
So, the minister has his work cut out for him. With a limited budget and zero staff, the minister will be forwarding reports back to Tahoma to keep the Mayor informed of all the latest doings in Brasilia, the capitol of this surging Latin Tigre.
Because of the events of Carnavale, the minister has taken vacation for the first week of his mission. This is with the full consent of the Mayor. Please, no comments from jealous drones required to carry on regular duties in your rabbit warrens here at home.
Buon Viaggio, Senor Alejandro!! Viva Brasile.
Water Levels Rise
Snow pack
With the snow falling at "normal rates", media types, government types, and agricultural types are making statements with confidence that water storage may reach acceptable levels. The significance of Lake Shasta levels comes into focus whenever the term acre -feet is thrown about. When lake levels at Shasta increase several feet"per day", hydrologists take note. In January, Shasta rose 42'. It is now 70' higher than last year. Boaters: start your engines.
Chronicle outdoor writer Tom Stienstra reported a catch on the Truckee River of a 31" brown trout by S. Hooper of Grass Valley. Nice job Scott.
With a little luck, snow will continue to fall during the last part of winter and our beloved "Lake in the Sky" will reach the rim plus some by May,2010.
With the snow falling at "normal rates", media types, government types, and agricultural types are making statements with confidence that water storage may reach acceptable levels. The significance of Lake Shasta levels comes into focus whenever the term acre -feet is thrown about. When lake levels at Shasta increase several feet"per day", hydrologists take note. In January, Shasta rose 42'. It is now 70' higher than last year. Boaters: start your engines.
Chronicle outdoor writer Tom Stienstra reported a catch on the Truckee River of a 31" brown trout by S. Hooper of Grass Valley. Nice job Scott.
With a little luck, snow will continue to fall during the last part of winter and our beloved "Lake in the Sky" will reach the rim plus some by May,2010.
Big Surf Hits Cal Coast
Mavericks'
Surf's Up---Waaaay Up! The forecast for long awaited big swells finally arrived and the word went out and around the world: all invited competitors for the Big Wave Competition at Mavericks' should be ready to go at day break on Saturday, Feb. 13,2010. From as far away as South Africa, surfers were making a beeline for california's heralded contest of elite surfers. The $50,000 first prize money brings the best of the best to the site. Neither contestants nor fans would be disappointed. The waves were, in local parlance, awesome!.
By some estimates, a few of the monster swells created wave fronts of 50'. In Hawaii, big surf at Waimea ranges from 20' to 30'wave fronts. One wave broke over a nearby breakwater and scatttered onlookers and officials, injuring more than a dozen and sending several to local hospitals with broken bones. None of the competitors was injured, although several reported interminable hold downs that delayed or ended their heats.
Chris Bertish of South Africa took home the $50K. He commented that what was seen Saturday at Mavericks will go down in surfer lore as the legend of 2010. Only repeated examination of the photos will verify the size of those waves.
Chris had some travel issues, too. Both of his boards were lost enroute. To the rescue: Jeff Clark. The recently deposed contest director, a long time friend of Bertish, put him up for the night, and gave him a replacement board:a Jeff Clark Special.
Next year, or rather next time they hold the competition, competitors will think long and hard about the challenge of Mavericks'.
Surf's Up---Waaaay Up! The forecast for long awaited big swells finally arrived and the word went out and around the world: all invited competitors for the Big Wave Competition at Mavericks' should be ready to go at day break on Saturday, Feb. 13,2010. From as far away as South Africa, surfers were making a beeline for california's heralded contest of elite surfers. The $50,000 first prize money brings the best of the best to the site. Neither contestants nor fans would be disappointed. The waves were, in local parlance, awesome!.
By some estimates, a few of the monster swells created wave fronts of 50'. In Hawaii, big surf at Waimea ranges from 20' to 30'wave fronts. One wave broke over a nearby breakwater and scatttered onlookers and officials, injuring more than a dozen and sending several to local hospitals with broken bones. None of the competitors was injured, although several reported interminable hold downs that delayed or ended their heats.
Chris Bertish of South Africa took home the $50K. He commented that what was seen Saturday at Mavericks will go down in surfer lore as the legend of 2010. Only repeated examination of the photos will verify the size of those waves.
Chris had some travel issues, too. Both of his boards were lost enroute. To the rescue: Jeff Clark. The recently deposed contest director, a long time friend of Bertish, put him up for the night, and gave him a replacement board:a Jeff Clark Special.
Next year, or rather next time they hold the competition, competitors will think long and hard about the challenge of Mavericks'.
Locals win medals Vancouver games
Moguls Competition
Tahoe City resident and noted skier, Shannon Barhke, soared to international recognition by winning the Bronze medal in women's mogul competition. Her stellar run over poor snow conditions delighted Lake Tahoe area fans. With taverns around the lake focused on her efforts, her podium position was enjoyed by all. Enthusiastic and very happy for all team USA members, Shannon was especially delighted her teammate, Hannah Kearney, won the gold medal in the moguls, over taking Canadian rival and favorite, Jenny Heil. Kearney is the first American gold medalist at Vancouver.
Another local skier,Ani Serebrakian, who skis at Squaw Valley, is representing Armenia. She is a dual citizen, and grew up in Marin County, where her Dad is a doctor in Novato,CA. Ani is a student at USF, and she is one of four athletes from Armenia at these games. Her brother, of Boulder,CO, is also a skier, but didn't qualify for the team.
With variable weather conditions causing delays at various venues around Whistler, events and trials are being rescheduled. So, keep up to date on the official website of the Games.
Tahoe City resident and noted skier, Shannon Barhke, soared to international recognition by winning the Bronze medal in women's mogul competition. Her stellar run over poor snow conditions delighted Lake Tahoe area fans. With taverns around the lake focused on her efforts, her podium position was enjoyed by all. Enthusiastic and very happy for all team USA members, Shannon was especially delighted her teammate, Hannah Kearney, won the gold medal in the moguls, over taking Canadian rival and favorite, Jenny Heil. Kearney is the first American gold medalist at Vancouver.
Another local skier,Ani Serebrakian, who skis at Squaw Valley, is representing Armenia. She is a dual citizen, and grew up in Marin County, where her Dad is a doctor in Novato,CA. Ani is a student at USF, and she is one of four athletes from Armenia at these games. Her brother, of Boulder,CO, is also a skier, but didn't qualify for the team.
With variable weather conditions causing delays at various venues around Whistler, events and trials are being rescheduled. So, keep up to date on the official website of the Games.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Mayor of New orleans,LA
The City of NOLA has a newly elected mayor: Mitch Landrieu, son of former mayor, Moon Landrieu. His sister, Sen. Mary Landrieu, represents Louisiana in the U.S. Senate. The mayor elect lost a runoff with winner Ray Nagin in 2006. With 67% vote in, there won't be a runoff this time around.
The Mayor of Tahoma extends hearty congratulations to the new mayor and wishes him the very best. His first responsibility, no doubt, will be to help the city celebrate the signal victory in the Super bowl of their beloved Saints.
No mo Aints!
The Mayor of Tahoma extends hearty congratulations to the new mayor and wishes him the very best. His first responsibility, no doubt, will be to help the city celebrate the signal victory in the Super bowl of their beloved Saints.
No mo Aints!
Who Dat Nation
America loves a winner and an underdog even more
So, sports fans across the fruited plain, chalk up SuperBowl 44 as an upset. Maybe not a huge upset, but one that is significant to the Crescent City, the city god forgot in 2005 when Katrina's wrath pummeled the population into a stupor and then almost into oblivion. But for the determination of believers and dreamers, the city of the saints is making a comeback. If there ever was a sign that she's back, it's a super bowl victory that stunned a favored Indianapolis Colts team ably lead by local celebrity Peyton Manning of that Manning family.
After a shaky start and giving up 10 unanswered points, Drew Brees lead his Saints marching back up the field and back down again six times before the Colts could put anymore points on the board. A 74 yard runback after a pick of a Manning pass caused elation among New Orleans fans(of which there were many in attendance). With the score now 31-17, the Colts needed a miracle as the clock continued to run. Not this time would the Colts salvage a win. So the odds makers went home scratching their bald pates and lamenting the computers that failed them, again. (those progammers!) The 6 point spread was demolished and many a Saints fan, contrary to reason, went home winners on the field and in the Sports Book @ Harrahs' on Canal St.
Drew Brees is voted MVP and his smile tells the rest of the story: the taste of victory is sweet.
So, sports fans across the fruited plain, chalk up SuperBowl 44 as an upset. Maybe not a huge upset, but one that is significant to the Crescent City, the city god forgot in 2005 when Katrina's wrath pummeled the population into a stupor and then almost into oblivion. But for the determination of believers and dreamers, the city of the saints is making a comeback. If there ever was a sign that she's back, it's a super bowl victory that stunned a favored Indianapolis Colts team ably lead by local celebrity Peyton Manning of that Manning family.
After a shaky start and giving up 10 unanswered points, Drew Brees lead his Saints marching back up the field and back down again six times before the Colts could put anymore points on the board. A 74 yard runback after a pick of a Manning pass caused elation among New Orleans fans(of which there were many in attendance). With the score now 31-17, the Colts needed a miracle as the clock continued to run. Not this time would the Colts salvage a win. So the odds makers went home scratching their bald pates and lamenting the computers that failed them, again. (those progammers!) The 6 point spread was demolished and many a Saints fan, contrary to reason, went home winners on the field and in the Sports Book @ Harrahs' on Canal St.
Drew Brees is voted MVP and his smile tells the rest of the story: the taste of victory is sweet.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Grammy Get Going
The Mayor's office talked with staff, including the Minister of Music and Culture and found an eager group that supported the production for the presentation of annual awards to the industry. The production came off quite well, and was certainly entertaining. The artists did their part, dressing in high style and performing admirably using all their talents(all!) to best effect. Past winners were in evidence to help viewers recall faves from the recent past.
The staging was terrific, borrowing some from Cirque du Soleil(Pink performance noted).
The tribute to the late Michael Jackson was capped with statements made by his two children, live on stage. His son, the elder of the two, demonstrated remarkable poise. Clearly, the two are aware of fame they will be forever linked with.
And who can deny the fresh appeal of Taylor Swift? Whereas, Beyounce' came across as the consummate professional entertainer, Swift served notice, she's making her moves.
Jeff Bridges came on late in the program to good effect. His performance in Crazy Heart was one of many highlights of 2009. Get the album, too.
For fans of Sade(Adu), she and her band have released their newest album,"Soldier of Love. While the Mayor has not listened to the new #'s, it promises not to let down her many fans.
The staging was terrific, borrowing some from Cirque du Soleil(Pink performance noted).
The tribute to the late Michael Jackson was capped with statements made by his two children, live on stage. His son, the elder of the two, demonstrated remarkable poise. Clearly, the two are aware of fame they will be forever linked with.
And who can deny the fresh appeal of Taylor Swift? Whereas, Beyounce' came across as the consummate professional entertainer, Swift served notice, she's making her moves.
Jeff Bridges came on late in the program to good effect. His performance in Crazy Heart was one of many highlights of 2009. Get the album, too.
For fans of Sade(Adu), she and her band have released their newest album,"Soldier of Love. While the Mayor has not listened to the new #'s, it promises not to let down her many fans.
The Hurt Locker: more info
The Hurt Locker on dvd is enjoying the new interest generated by Oscar nomination and an award that most likely precedes an Oscar. Ms. Bigalow, the director, received the Directors' Guild Award last week and this award has been historically a predictor of a soon to follow Oscar. We'll see.
The buzz continues to attract viewers and will no doubt ensure wider audiences around the world. Some of the film's images remain disturbing to the Mayor, but do not cause either a rebuke of technique or style. As recent remarks attest, this is not a war movie, but a police action film in an urban setting in a foreign country. For public safety officers in the audience, it's familiar territory in all it's parts.
The buzz continues to attract viewers and will no doubt ensure wider audiences around the world. Some of the film's images remain disturbing to the Mayor, but do not cause either a rebuke of technique or style. As recent remarks attest, this is not a war movie, but a police action film in an urban setting in a foreign country. For public safety officers in the audience, it's familiar territory in all it's parts.
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