Bowling’s U.S. Women’s Open – June 21-27

For the second consecutive year, bowling is breaking new ground at Bowling’s U.S. Women’s Open, the industry’s pre-eminent professional women’s tournament. Following a landmark television finals event in 2011 that was played at the 50 yard-line in Cowboys Stadium, the Open finals will now – for the first-time ever – be played outdoors on legendary Virginia Street in Reno, Nev. History will be broken twice, as the event will also feature the introduction of the first-ever Bowling’s Senior U.S. Women’s Open, for participants over 50 years old.

The 2012 Bowling’s U.S. Women’s Open and Senior Open will take place simultaneously, beginning June 21 at the National Bowling Stadium, and will culminate with the top five bowlers earning a spot in the finals on June 27 at 7:00 p.m. For a second consecutive year, the Open finals, in addition to the newly-added Senior Open finals, will be broadcast on ESPN’s family of networks.

This event is open to the public for viewing.

www.bowlingsuswomensopen.com.

The best bull riders in the world are scheduled to compete in Reno, Nevada, June 14… in style.

If being thrashed by the rankest PRCA bulls wasn’t tough enough, this year’s riders are asked to do it in style, dressing in retro Western wear in Reno Rodeo’s first ever Wrangler Retro Night. Fans are also encouraged to partake in the festivities… minus the bull riding. Post photos of friends and family wearing retro western clothing to http://www.facebook.com/wranglerwestern to be seen and selected for prizes!

The headliners scheduled to compete include 12 of the 15 bull riding qualifiers from the 2011 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, many of which were selected for this past December’s Wrangler NFR.

The livestock stars of the Reno Xtreme Bulls event will include a number of rank PRCA bulls; including, 202 Bring It, Juicy Vindication, and Touch of Class.

All 40 riders will compete in a long-go on June 14, beginning at 7 p.m. (PT), and the top 12 will be brought back for the finals, where the Reno Xtreme Bulls champion will be crowned based on the highest total score.

The payout for the Reno Xtreme Bulls is big, $50,000. Monies won at PRCA Xtreme Bulls Tour stops count towards the 2012 PRCA World Standings, which determine qualifiers for the Dec. 6-15 Wrangler NFR.

Tickets for the one night only Reno Xtreme Bulls event may be purchased by calling 1-800-325-7328 or by visiting the event’s web site, www.renorodeo.com. Ticket prices are $15 for general admission, $20 for reserved grandstand seats and $25 for premium box seats. The Reno Rodeo Outdoor Arena is located at 1350 N. Wells Ave. in Reno.

Seven new special events are being added to Reno Tahoe’s 2012 event lineup. Events include Symbiosis Gathering Pyramid Eclipse, Dancers Extreme Challenge, Sparks Xtreme Beach Sports Festival, Fireworks 500, Lake Tahoe SummerFest, Human Performance Project and Expedition Man. Reno Tahoe USA is a destination packed full of unique special events that draw in thousands of visitors each year, and these new adventures will add even more diversity to an already vast entertainment calendar.

Symbiosis Gathering Pyramid Eclipse features an epic lineup of artists, musicians and teachers, and invites the masses to gather on the remote desert shores of Pyramid Lake, where the central line of the annular solar eclipse will pass at 6:30 p.m. on May 20, 2012. The May 17-22 event honors the alignment of the Earth, Moon and Sun with a celebration; including, live music, guest speakers and workshops on an array of topics, such as yoga and neurology.

From June 21-24, pro, intermediate and beginner dancers from across the nation come together on the southwest shores of Pyramid Lake for Dancers Extreme Challenge. Featuring a 5,000 sq. ft. dance floor on the lake front, this complete, packaged experience includes: a Survivor style team competition, water volleyball, bon fires, and all-you-can eat breakfast, lunch and dinners.

Sparks Marina is set to host the Sparks Xtreme Beach Sports Festival from June 30 – July 1, where the EVP Volleyball Tour and UWP Watercross Tour will combine for the first time on the west coast. Both events are the largest of their kind in country, featuring hundreds of All-American athletes going head-to-head in pro volley ball action on the beach and high-speed race action on the water.

Fireworks 500, July 1-8, features nine days of action packed events: qualifying races; performances by the Monster Freestyle MX Team, featuring X-Game and Ninja Stunt Team riders; race car displays; autograph signing; and, live entertainment. On July 7, racers take to the desert at the Reno Tahoe Motorplex, off Interstate-80 Exit 32, for a thrilling 500-mile race – the longest off-road race in the United States.

The inaugural Lake Tahoe SummerFest, July 30 – August 19, is a celebration of the arts. Masterpieces of classical music will be performed by instrumentalists from The New York Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony and Los Angeles Philharmonic, with live theatre and fine art presented by The Nevada Museum of Art. This celebration art and culture will be enjoyed under the tall pines, and alongside the crystal blue water, of Tahoe’s North Shore.

Presenting hundreds of athletes competing in over 15 different sports, The Human Performance Project is the most diverse display of athletics in the country. Held at the Grand Sierra Resort from August 23-26, competitors face off in Olympic, mixed martial arts, bodybuilding, outdoor and action sport categories.

Expedition Man, August 25, is Northern Nevada’s first Ultra Distance Triathlon, traversing a 194.2 mile course from South Lake Tahoe to the Legends at Sparks Marina. Participants begin with a brisk swim in beautiful Zephyr Cove Lake Tahoe, followed by a challenging bike course through Carson City into Reno, culminating with three fast out-and-backs around the Sparks Marina.

Reno Tahoe USA is home to more than 290-days of special events. For more information, see the full Special Events Calendar at http://www.visitrenotahoe.com/events/reno-tahoe-2012-special-events-festivals.

The Big Game might be in Indianapolis, but the real Super Bowl XLVI action is right here, in Reno Tahoe, on February 5! Not only will you watch the New England Patriots battle against the New York Giants on massive screens, you’ll also enjoy great food, prizes and even NFL cheerleaders!

Watch Tom Brady and Eli Manning go head-to-head at the Super Stadium Bash XLVI hosted by the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino in the Tuscany Events Center. For $55, enjoy Bud and Bud Light draft beer at every table, all-you-can-eat stadium food buffet, a Super Stadium Bash t-shirt and mug, exciting prizes every quarter and a meet and greet with the Budweiser Girls!

The Super Bowl fun kicks off before the game even starts at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa with a special Oakland Raiderette Cheerleader meet and greet on the Paradise Terrace from 2-3 pm. After getting your picture taken with the beautiful Raiderettes, catch all the hard hitting action on HDTVs throughout the casino or on 13-feet screens in the comfort of the Race & Sports Book, all while enjoying specials on your favorite stadium food and beer!

The Silver Legacy Resort Casino is throwing the largest Big Game Party in northern  Nevada at the Downtown Reno Ballroom. Hosted by KOZZ’s Smith and McClain, you won’t miss a play or knee-slapping commercial while watching the grid-iron action on multiple giant screens. For $40, enjoy a complimentary drink, all-you-can-eat buffet, big game hat, prizes and Budweiser swag!

At the Eldorado Hotel Casino, every seat is the best seat in the house as they open up the award-winning Broadway style showroom to host the 2012 NFL Championship party, featuring stadium style seating!  Tickets for a reserved seat are $25, and include a drink, stadium food and a souvenir hat commemorating the game. If enjoying delicious micro-brews while watching the action is more your style, head over to The Brew Brothers where you’ll find eighteen big screen TVs; mouthwatering burgers, salads and pizzas; and of course, hand crafted beers. Be sure to keep your eyes open for appearances by former NFL players Frank Hawkins, Dan McGwire, Quinn Early and former Harlem Globetrotter, Eathan O’Bryant.

We’ve all heard it… Pray For Snow, Pray for Snow, Pray For Snow. And we’ll be the first ones to admit some snow would be nice (hence our Snow Dance Competition where we’re giving away a 2-Night Ski Vacation to the best snow dance in order to increase the frequency of snow… Mother Nature, are you watching?), but we must share the numerous upsides for a delayed ski season that have been compelling visitors to come before snow coats our mountains for the remainder of winter. 

Last weekend a visitor told us they skied, mountain biked and golfed in the same day – that’s pretty awesome. 

1.       Learn to ski. Let’s face it, if you’re a first-timer, you aren’t going to be dropping 10-foot lips that require a snow pillow for landing, and you aren’t skiing in waist deep powder through the trees. The freshly groomed runs paired with endless blue skies create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing day on the slopes.  Plus, January is National Learn to Ski Month so resorts are offering massive discounts to first-timers!

2.       Golf. Our courses pride themselves on being open all year long, so hit them up! We have 50 within 90 minutes of downtown Reno, most of which are inside 15 minutes.

3.       Hike. It’s a rare occasion that our trails are hikeable this time of year without strapping on snowshoes.  See what’s usually hiding underneath all that snow!

4.       Rock climb. Climbers know their grips are easier to hold when it’s cold out. So what are you waiting for?

5.       Mountain bike. The trail conditions are excellent right now, so grab a friend and escape into the towering pines in the Sierra Mountains. 

6.       Ice skate. Enjoy this chilly wintertime activity, without the chill.

7.       Perfect road conditions. No moisture, no snow, no ice, no sliding. It’s faster and easier than ever to get here!

The newest issue of Nevada Magazine features the one and only, Reno Tahoe! We couldn’t help but share these breath-taking images and well written articles on our favorite destination. Features in the magazine include the area’s top ski resorts (including the largest ski resort in the US!), the Black Rock Desert beyond Burning Man (their photos will wow you), lakes, parks, towns, venues…. everything you’d want to know!

Want your own copy? Take advantage of Groupon’s 50% off deal through 10/22! http://www.groupon.com/deals/nevada-magazine-2 .

The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe would like to invite all fishermen to come out and experience Pyramid Lake on opening day, Saturday October 1. Last year Pyramid was named as one of the top public fisheries in the world by Fly Fishing and Tying Journal!

Known for one of the best places to catch the famous Lohanton Cutthroat Trout, Pyramid will keep your luck, lines, and lures busy!

The Tribe would like to remind all visitors to the lake that day use, camping and other permits are required for all non-tribal members to access the lake. Tribal permit fees have not increased from last year and can be purchased online. Proceeds from permits help support programs that protect public safety and the unique eco-system of Pyramid Lake year round.

Finally, the Tribe reminds all fisherman and boaters to do their part to “Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers” by taking preventative measures to keep the waters of Pyramid Lake clean. For additional information or questions about what aquatic invasive species or Pyramid Lake, please log onto www.pyramidlake.us or call the Ranger Station at 775-476-1155.

Whether you’re planning your next vacation to Reno Tahoe, or you’re a local in need of a stay-cation, you will love these incredible deals.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Coming for a Special Event? Save with one of the many hotels who offer event packages! To name a few, John Ascuaga’s Nugget has packages for Street Vibrations and the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa has packages for Thunder From Down Under.

ROMANTIC GETAWAY

Maybe a romantic stay in the Biggest Little City with that significant other is more what you’re looking for? If so, these generous offers from the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino and Silver Legacy Resort Casino will sweep you off your feet. Take advantage of these dueling discounts on everything you need for a sizzling stay; including, your room, dinner, chocolate covered strawberries and couples massage.

FAMILY FIRST

Recover from a brain freeze after scarfing down a waffle cone, play in the arcades, or hit the slopes with these unique packages designed for families.

Peppermill Resort Spa Casino We are Family Package

Circus Circus Vacation Ski and Midway Package

SHOW ME SOME LOVE

Eldorado Hotel Casino is offering room packages for those looking to see one of their hit shows Peter Pan or Hairspray!

LAKE TAHOE

Lake Tahoe is a pristine vacation destination where you can enjoy your favorite summer or winter activities among the beautiful surroundings of crystal clear water, towering pine trees and the often snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains. From kayaking and paddle boarding to skiing and spa treatments, there are endless savings in Tahoe.

SKI TAHOE

With an abundance of world-class ski resorts and unsurpassed conditions, Reno Tahoe is one of the most sought-after winter sports destinations on the globe. Now combine our excellent skiing/snowboarding with the pleasure of staying at the luxurious Atlantis Casino Resort Spa and you’re in for a getaway you’ll never forget.  Experience it for yourself with these great ski packages that will get you on the slopes without breaking the bank.

From weekend getaways to week-long retreats, the possibilities for a great time are endless in Reno-Tahoe. Here are few more deals to make your trip even better:

Grand Sierra Resort Golf Packages

Eldorado Hotel Casino Extended Stay Packages

Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Wine and Dine Package

Written by, Cody Haener

CommRow will celebrate its grand opening on October 1, becoming Reno’s first “Urban Adventure Destination.” This property will inject a sample of the region’s outdoor thrills into the heart of Reno’s downtown corridor.

Towering 164-feet above the landmark Reno arch is the world’s tallest climbing wall on the 16-story building’s exterior façade. Inside, climbing enthusiasts or curious beginners will find a world-class bouldering center, plus event space and slacklines. The entire climbing facility, known as BaseCamp, is built to international competition standards but also first-timer friendly.

CommRow also features a menagerie of culturally-diverse eateries and bars dubbed “TheRow”, which were developed by two seasoned restaurateurs who have worked with such acclaimed chefs as Bobby Flay, Charlie Palmer and Bryan Voltaggio. Guests will find something to tempt any palate, from traditional tacos to fresh tuna tartars. Libations from classic cocktails to a selection of more than 100 tequilas can also be found. On the second floor, watch all of the bouldering action while enjoying either smoothies and housemade granolas, or wines by the glass and draft beers.

Two live entertainment venues known as Cargo and Centric will feature local performers and national touring acts. During the day, the 400-person capacity Cargo will transform into a fitness center with a focus on core training. Additional meeting and event space is also available.

Other attractions are slated to open in 2012, including the pet-friendly HANG Hotel in spring, and an outdoor “Adventure Deck” with BMX and skate parks, outdoor bouldering and more.

CommRow’s developer Fernando Leal of Chicago- and Reno-based L3 Development LLC states, “This is a huge opportunity to elevate Reno’s perception in the eyes of both locals and visitors alike, showcasing it for what it truly is – a vibrant, multi-faceted destination.”

Grab some Buds because the dam gates are open and the river is rolling. After a long winter with near-record snowfall, the Truckee River has finally opened for safe summer river rafting.

We are going to bypass attempting to explain the unimaginable beauty the Truckee River holds. You’ll need to get your toes wet in order to absorb the true breath-taking scenery and experience the refreshing chill of the Truckee yourself. Two, of many, self-guided rafting companies are Truckee River Rafting and Truckee River Raft Company; both offer five mile floats down the Truckee River.

Most trips are leisurely and take two to three hours to complete, but don’t assume you have to stay in your raft the whole time, jump in and go for a swim! And, if you get hungry, row off to the side and enjoy a picnic lunch on a sandy shore.

When your trip has come to an end, a free shuttle will take you back to your vehicle in Tahoe City any time before 6:00 p.m. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily (weather permitting) and footwear is mandatory. Trips include parking, shuttle, paddles, life jackets and commercial rafts for 2-20 people.

We know a long day on the river will brew up an appetite and there is no better way to satisfy your hunger than dining alfresco at one of North Lake Tahoe’s premier restaurants. River Ranch Lodge is always a favorite, especially with its outdoor patio that gives guests a front row seat to rafters exiting the Truckee River. Locals rave about the pulled pork sandwich served on ciabatta with bleu cheese coleslaw and southern barbeque sauce. River Grill in Tahoe City is also a hotspot and has one of Lake Tahoe’s best happy hours. Definitely try the macaroni and cheese with applewood smoked bacon, tomato and New York sharp white cheddar. And for some of the best margaritas in town, head to the historic Blue Agave in Tahoe City and take a load off where Baby Face Nelson hid out from the authorities back in Tahoe’s heyday.

For more information about rafting and raft companies go to www.GoTahoeNorth.com or www.VisitRenoTahoe.com.