Archive for March, 2014

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Norm Sayler, the icon of the summit, president and manager of Donner Ski Ranch for 46 years, owner and operator of the History Museum in Soda Springs and the man singled out for his “forward-thinking” contributions to Donner Summit and the entire Tahoe region will be joining us.  Doing things his way he can be credited for many important things such as being instrumental in making Donner the first ski resort in America to open its slopes to snow boarders in the 1980s, which led to a resurrection of the snow sport industry.  As Norm stated: “My philosophy is simple. I don’t show people how to have fun, I let people have fun. That’s what skiing is all about.”  ~~ Norm was instrumental in saving both the Rainbow Bridge which looks over Donner Lake, as well as ensuring that large parts of highway 40 were preserved. Norm has a great ski history collection at his museum which is available for all to view in downtown Soda Springs, CA.   We are so happy that  Norm will be working with us to preserve the skiing history of the west…. Read more

What a great time for both the Cub scouts of pack 264 and our museum host Olympian Joe Pete Wilson.  The scouts learned about ski history of our area and were able to hear stories of the 1960 Olympics from one who was there.  These are the types of experiences and gatherings that we hoped for when we created the museum.  Thanks so much to all the leaders and parents of Cub Pack 264 hope you can return next year!… Read more

Craig Beck can be characterized as a Renaissance man and truly one of the first Extreme Sportsman. Craig’s first introduction to skiing was as a press runner at the 1960 Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley, USA.  One of the original Lake Tahoe ski “hotdoggers,” he went on to produce the iconic ‘70’s ski film, “Daydreams,” which he also shot and starred in.  His love of skiing and other board sports is constant. For many years he resurrected an interest in the historical longboards by designing and honing dozens of pairs himself for a National Longboard competition, which he organized and held for many years in the Lake Tahoe region. This led to an Olympic demonstration spectacle at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics.  Craig and wife, Cindy, are the parents of Clay, Emily and David and also the doting grandparents of four active grandsons! Come by and see examples of Craig’s longboards which he has placed on display as well as informational materials about the great sport of longboard racing.  Thanks so much Craig and Cindy!… Read more

It is through great donations like this rare 1960 Olympic Map from the Grunwald /Howarth family that allows the Museum to grow and ensure that we are able to preserve our history.  This very unique map was available at the 1960 Olympics and features an overview of the mountain courses and the valley Olympic venue.  The framed map will be on display in the museum shortly.  We thank the Grunwald /Howarth family for becoming part of our museum!… Read more