Olympic Valley, CA - With the theme of "Mountain Dreamers: celebrating the pioneering spirit and history of skiing at Lake Tahoe," the second annual "A Toast to Tahoe Skiing" gala takes place this Saturday at the Resort at Squaw Creek in Olympic Valley. The event will bring together invited speakers, an evening of gourmet food, a dynamic fashion show, a video history of Lake Tahoe's ski resorts, an auction, and the premiere of the Lake Tahoe segment of a major new ski film featuring some of Tahoe's most recognizable names.


Eric Brandt will serve as the master of ceremonies. Local author and historian Mark McLaughlin, who has been seen on the History Channel, CNN, The Weather Channel, and has a book due out later this year on Lake Tahoe's rich winter sports history, will give a presentation on the evolution of skiing, and the rise of the resorts, at Lake Tahoe.

In addition, a bevy of local Olympians, ski film athletes, and local notables will participate in an upbeat fashion show displaying the latest ski fashions.

A fundraiser for Squaw Valley Institute, a nonprofit organization that brings events of cultural and educational significance to the Lake Tahoe region, the gala takes place the Grand Sierra Ballroom at the Resort at Squaw Creek, which is situated at the base of Squaw Valley USA ski resort, beginning with a reception at 6 p.m.

"As the event did last year, we expect this evening to bring together Tahoe's who's-who and attract skiers and boarders from all around," said John Wilcox, president of the Squaw Valley Institute. A free after-event party will take place in Resort at Squaw Creek's Sandy's Pub from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., featuring ski movies along with food and drink specials.

Tickets for the gala cost $85 per person in advance; $100 at the door. VIP tickets are $120. For ticket and VIP table information visit www.squawvalleyinstitute.org, or call (530) 581-4138.