NEWS RELEASE
For Release Immediately
December 28, 2007
TRPA FUNDS HELP TAHOE BASIN AIR AND WATER QUALITY;
$2.9 MILLION AUTHORIZED FOR USE BY LOCAL JURISDICTIONS IN 2007
Lake Tahoe, Stateline, NV - Water and air quality improvement projects around the Tahoe Basin will receive a nearly $3 million boost thanks to mitigation fund releases authorized by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency in 2007, the Agency said today.
More than $2.9 million in water quality and air quality
mitigation funds were earmarked for 15 Tahoe area environmental
improvement projects during the year, the Agency said.
Environmental mitigation funds are generated from fees paid by property owners to offset the impacts of their new development projects. The funds are then distributed to local jurisdictions by TRPA to help pay for larger-scale efforts to improve air and water quality.
Among projects slated to receive a portion of the $2.1 million in water quality funds and $821,000 in air quality funds authorized for release between May and November 2007 are planned road improvements to the U.S. Highway 50/State Route 89 South Y intersection in South Lake Tahoe and erosion control projects associated with the Angora Wildfire rehabilitation efforts in South Lake Tahoe.
"The property owners who help fund these projects through the
mitigation fees they pay are making an important contribution to Lake Tahoe," said TRPA Principal Planner Jeanne McNamara. "These funds are put to good use by the local jurisdictions to help in the overall effort to preserve and restore this special place."
The authorized funds are to be released to the local jurisdictions as each environmental improvement project moves forward according to conditions outlined by TRPA and agreed to by the local jurisdictions. The mitigation funds are often used to leverage even larger amounts of state and federal funds in order to carry out these important projects. The projects authorized to receive mitigation funds during 2007 are:
* Christmas Valley Erosion Control Project, El Dorado County; $100,000 in water quality mitigation funds authorized May 23.
* Echo View Erosion Control Project; El Dorado County; $50,000 in water quality mitigation funds authorized May 23.
* Rubicon Erosion Control Project, El Dorado County; $50,000 in water quality mitigation funds and $20,000 in stream environment zone restoration mitigation funds authorized May 23.
* Montgomery Estates Erosion Control Project, El Dorado County; $100,000 in water quality mitigation funds authorized May 23.
* Tahoe Pines Erosion Control Project, Placer County; $75,000 in previously released water quality mitigation funds authorized July 25.
* Beaver Street Erosion Control Project, Placer County; $62,000 in previously released water quality mitigation funds authorized July 25.
* Lake Tahoe Boulevard Basin Piping Project, City of South Lake Tahoe; $510,900 in water quality mitigation funds authorized September 26 as part of Angora Wildfire rehabilitation effort.
* Gardner Mountain Storm Drain Project, City of South Lake
Tahoe; $308,600 in water quality mitigation funds authorized September 26 as part of Angora Wildfire rehabilitation effort.
* Sediment removal project, City of South Lake Tahoe;
$27,329.08 in water quality mitigation funds authorized September 26 as part of Angora Wildfire rehabilitation effort.
* Kings Beach Water Quality Project, Placer County; $450,000 in water quality mitigation funds authorized September 26.
* Tahoe Pines Erosion Control Project, Placer County; $150,000 in water quality mitigation funds authorized September 26.
* Alternative fueling station/storage facilities project,
Placer County; $393,240 in air quality mitigation fees authorized September 26.
* Equipment purchase/maintenance, Placer County; $180,000 in water quality mitigation fees authorized September 26.
* Bijou Area Water Quality Project, City of South Lake Tahoe; $6,000 in water quality mitigation fund interest authorized October 24.
* South Y intersection transportation improvements at U.S. Hwy 50 and State Route 89, City of South Lake Tahoe; $428,000 in air quality mitigation funds authorized November 28.
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency cooperatively leads the effort to preserve, restore, and enhance the unique natural and human environment of the Lake Tahoe Region now and in the future. For additional information, call Dennis Oliver, 775-589-5235.
###
Monday, December 31, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
Gay-lebian ski adventure in Tahoe
BLUE GAY-LA - SOUTH LAKE TAHOE'S LEGENDARY GAY & LESBIAN SKI WEEK - RETURNS TO THE SLOPES JANUARY 23-27, 2008
Winter has officially arrived in Lake Tahoe just in time to ring in the New Year with the second annual Blue Gay-La: The Winter Party at Lake Tahoe. Here in the Blue World, you can enjoy some of the best skiing and riding in North America by day and by night, head to Blue Avenue, where you can leave your inhibitions at the door and revel in the energy of Lake Tahoe's 24-hour gaming and nightlife.
SHAKE YOUR BOOTY WITH KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND
The upcoming Blue Gay-La includes plenty of reasons to "Get Down Tonight" with the following explosive entertainment line-up:
KC and the Sunshine Band at Harrah's - Friday, Jan. 25
British ska band The English Beat at MontBleu - Friday, Jan. 25
Comedians ANT and Paula Poundstone at MontBleu - Saturday, Jan. 26
Energy 92.7 After Party at BLU featuring DJ Chris Cox - Saturday, Jan. 26
Improv at Harveys featuring Jason Stuart and Chipper Lowell- Nightly
Visit the Blue Gay-La website to purchase your party pass today, which includes discount tickets to all of the hottest shows and exclusive parties.
PARTY ON!
This year's Blue Gay-La is packed with events to keep you entertained both on and off the slopes. Whether you are into happy hours or all-night dance parties, we offer something for everyone. Highlights include the Chocolate and Martini Party at Opal Ultra Lounge Thursday night, Blue World Pub Crawl Friday and the GLOW After Party at BLU Saturday. Warning: There is no last call in Nevada. Those who enter the clubs have been known to see the sun rise. To view a complete schedule of events, click here.
DISCOUNTED LODGING, LIFT TICKETS AND PARTY PASSES NOW AVAILABLE
Because we know that at some point you have to sleep, we have an assortment of discounted lodging options now available. Properties range from plush casino resorts to elegant condos, charming cabins, lakefront hotels and cozy group retreats.
For all you powder hounds and ski bunnies, discounted lift tickets to Heavenly, Sierra-at-Tahoe and Kirkwood Mountain Resort are now available. Those of you with the need for speed will not want to miss our group snowmobile tour at Zephyr Cove Resort Friday, Jan. 25.
CALLING ALL QUEENS...
The notorious Queen of the Mountain Drag Races returns to Heavenly Mountain Resort, Saturday, Jan. 26 from 1 - 2 p.m. This raucous event challenges both men and women to ski or snowboard down a fun course while dressed in drag. Bring soundtracks, props and your sweetest moves for a chance to be crowned this year's Queen of the Mountain.
Hope to see you all at Blue Gay-La 2008!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority | 169 Highway 50/PO Box 5878 | Stateline, NV 89449
530.544.5050
Winter has officially arrived in Lake Tahoe just in time to ring in the New Year with the second annual Blue Gay-La: The Winter Party at Lake Tahoe. Here in the Blue World, you can enjoy some of the best skiing and riding in North America by day and by night, head to Blue Avenue, where you can leave your inhibitions at the door and revel in the energy of Lake Tahoe's 24-hour gaming and nightlife.
SHAKE YOUR BOOTY WITH KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND
The upcoming Blue Gay-La includes plenty of reasons to "Get Down Tonight" with the following explosive entertainment line-up:
KC and the Sunshine Band at Harrah's - Friday, Jan. 25
British ska band The English Beat at MontBleu - Friday, Jan. 25
Comedians ANT and Paula Poundstone at MontBleu - Saturday, Jan. 26
Energy 92.7 After Party at BLU featuring DJ Chris Cox - Saturday, Jan. 26
Improv at Harveys featuring Jason Stuart and Chipper Lowell- Nightly
Visit the Blue Gay-La website to purchase your party pass today, which includes discount tickets to all of the hottest shows and exclusive parties.
PARTY ON!
This year's Blue Gay-La is packed with events to keep you entertained both on and off the slopes. Whether you are into happy hours or all-night dance parties, we offer something for everyone. Highlights include the Chocolate and Martini Party at Opal Ultra Lounge Thursday night, Blue World Pub Crawl Friday and the GLOW After Party at BLU Saturday. Warning: There is no last call in Nevada. Those who enter the clubs have been known to see the sun rise. To view a complete schedule of events, click here.
DISCOUNTED LODGING, LIFT TICKETS AND PARTY PASSES NOW AVAILABLE
Because we know that at some point you have to sleep, we have an assortment of discounted lodging options now available. Properties range from plush casino resorts to elegant condos, charming cabins, lakefront hotels and cozy group retreats.
For all you powder hounds and ski bunnies, discounted lift tickets to Heavenly, Sierra-at-Tahoe and Kirkwood Mountain Resort are now available. Those of you with the need for speed will not want to miss our group snowmobile tour at Zephyr Cove Resort Friday, Jan. 25.
CALLING ALL QUEENS...
The notorious Queen of the Mountain Drag Races returns to Heavenly Mountain Resort, Saturday, Jan. 26 from 1 - 2 p.m. This raucous event challenges both men and women to ski or snowboard down a fun course while dressed in drag. Bring soundtracks, props and your sweetest moves for a chance to be crowned this year's Queen of the Mountain.
Hope to see you all at Blue Gay-La 2008!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority | 169 Highway 50/PO Box 5878 | Stateline, NV 89449
530.544.5050
Personal trainer boasts about A Massage at Tahoe
Massage is the answer to what ails you
Rhonda Beckham
December 28, 2007 Tahoe Daily Tribune
I just had the best night's sleep I've had in years - 7.5 hours of uninterrupted bliss; my skin is smooth, and my muscles are quiet. I have a sense of peace, feel lighter on my feet and clearer in my head.
A massage with a caring professional therapist is priceless. If you've never experienced the delight of getting the tension in your neck, jaw or shoulders relieved, it's time. If you've just had an exhilarating day on the slopes, it's time. Your body will thank you tomorrow.
Here are a few of the most popular types of massage:
Swedish
This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. Massage therapists use long, smooth strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. Swedish massage usually is very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had a massage before, this is a good one to try first.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing or have some other benefit. One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.
Hot stone
One of my favorites. Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot-stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.
Deep tissue
It's that good hurt, like after a good workout. Deep-tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep-tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems or recovery from injury.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.
Pregnancy
Also called prenatal massage, pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage know the proper way to position and support the woman's body during the massage and how to modify techniques. Pregnancy massage is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. Make sure you go to someone who is trained in this technique, because there are pressure points that must be avoided in prenatal massage so that labor is not induced.
Reflexology
Ah, the ecstasy. Although reflexology sometimes is called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.
Sports
Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one. It's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus is on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance. A combination of techniques is used. The strokes generally are faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility. This is good before or after an athletic event.
When I first moved to this resort town, I was amazed by how many massage therapists live here. I used to joke that there are two therapists for each tourist. The trick is to know who to go to.
The independents in town all charge about the same, while the casino-hotels are pricier. Some therapists will even come to you. Find one who specializes in your specific needs. I go to Kae at A Massage at Tahoe because she is really, really good at deep-tissue and sports massage. My body takes a beating in weightlifting, Pilates and kickboxing. A good weekly massage is a not only a treat, but also a requirement for my occupation.
You go to doctors, dentists and hairstylists for routine maintenance. Consider finding a good local massage therapist for routine maintenance of the body, mind and soul.
If you want to learn how to do massage, longtime local therapist Rosemary Manning teaches a class at Lake Tahoe Community College that begins Jan. 10. Through Barton University, she will be teaching a three-session infant-massage class starting Jan. 7.
Get a massage or learn how to give one:
A Massage at Tahoe: www.MassageAtTahoe.com, (530) 318-4806
Barton University: http://education.bartonhealth.org/
Lake Tahoe Community College: www.ltcc.edu
-- Rhonda Beckham is a nationally certified personal trainer with teaching certificates in Pilates and kickboxing.
Help Me Rhonda
Rhonda Beckham is owner of Help Me Rhonda and Perfect Pilates, a Pilates instructor at Lake Tahoe Community College and Sierra Athletic Club, as well as a personal trainer operating out of Sierra Athletic Club and the Tahoe Keys Marina Fitness Studio. She may be reached at (530) 208-6369, www.tahoetrainer.com and rhonda@tahoetrainer.com.
Rhonda Beckham
December 28, 2007 Tahoe Daily Tribune
I just had the best night's sleep I've had in years - 7.5 hours of uninterrupted bliss; my skin is smooth, and my muscles are quiet. I have a sense of peace, feel lighter on my feet and clearer in my head.
A massage with a caring professional therapist is priceless. If you've never experienced the delight of getting the tension in your neck, jaw or shoulders relieved, it's time. If you've just had an exhilarating day on the slopes, it's time. Your body will thank you tomorrow.
Here are a few of the most popular types of massage:
Swedish
This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. Massage therapists use long, smooth strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. Swedish massage usually is very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had a massage before, this is a good one to try first.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing or have some other benefit. One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.
Hot stone
One of my favorites. Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot-stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.
Deep tissue
It's that good hurt, like after a good workout. Deep-tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep-tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems or recovery from injury.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.
Pregnancy
Also called prenatal massage, pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage know the proper way to position and support the woman's body during the massage and how to modify techniques. Pregnancy massage is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. Make sure you go to someone who is trained in this technique, because there are pressure points that must be avoided in prenatal massage so that labor is not induced.
Reflexology
Ah, the ecstasy. Although reflexology sometimes is called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.
Sports
Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one. It's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus is on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance. A combination of techniques is used. The strokes generally are faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility. This is good before or after an athletic event.
When I first moved to this resort town, I was amazed by how many massage therapists live here. I used to joke that there are two therapists for each tourist. The trick is to know who to go to.
The independents in town all charge about the same, while the casino-hotels are pricier. Some therapists will even come to you. Find one who specializes in your specific needs. I go to Kae at A Massage at Tahoe because she is really, really good at deep-tissue and sports massage. My body takes a beating in weightlifting, Pilates and kickboxing. A good weekly massage is a not only a treat, but also a requirement for my occupation.
You go to doctors, dentists and hairstylists for routine maintenance. Consider finding a good local massage therapist for routine maintenance of the body, mind and soul.
If you want to learn how to do massage, longtime local therapist Rosemary Manning teaches a class at Lake Tahoe Community College that begins Jan. 10. Through Barton University, she will be teaching a three-session infant-massage class starting Jan. 7.
Get a massage or learn how to give one:
A Massage at Tahoe: www.MassageAtTahoe.com, (530) 318-4806
Barton University: http://education.bartonhealth.org/
Lake Tahoe Community College: www.ltcc.edu
-- Rhonda Beckham is a nationally certified personal trainer with teaching certificates in Pilates and kickboxing.
Help Me Rhonda
Rhonda Beckham is owner of Help Me Rhonda and Perfect Pilates, a Pilates instructor at Lake Tahoe Community College and Sierra Athletic Club, as well as a personal trainer operating out of Sierra Athletic Club and the Tahoe Keys Marina Fitness Studio. She may be reached at (530) 208-6369, www.tahoetrainer.com and rhonda@tahoetrainer.com.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Dec. 21 travel alert
Highway 50 near Wrights Lake Road was closed in both directions earlier today because of a collision. Call Caltrans or go to the website to get up-to-date details.
Gov. Gibbons meeting with Interior secretary
For Immediate Release: December 12, 2007
GOVERNOR TO MEET WITH U.S. SECRETARY OF INTERIOR DIRK KEMPTHORNE
Carson City— Tomorrow, Governor Jim Gibbons will meet with U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to discuss the federal government’s role in assisting Nevada with post-fire land rehabilitation efforts and the U.S. District Court’s recent decision to reverse a 2004 decision by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to not list the Sage Grouse as threatened or endangered. Secretary Kempthorne will be in Nevada to attend the annual Colorado River Water Users Association Conference.
Recently, Governor Gibbons signed a memorandum of understanding with Idaho , Utah , and Wyoming to outline and formulate a cooperative plan to ensure the continued coordinated support efforts for wildland fire fuels management and rehabilitation efforts between all four states. Each year, western states lose millions of acres of native vegetation to catastrophic wildfires.
“We are hopeful that our federal partners will join us in our mutual efforts to rehabilitate and reclaim lands affected by this year’s devastating wildfires. Failure to do so will result in an increased presence of invasive species such as cheat grass, red brome, and other annual grasses and exotic vegetation,” said Governor Gibbons.
Governor Gibbons and Secretary Kempthorne will also discuss the U.S. District Court’s order reversing a 2004 decision by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to not list the Sage Grouse as threatened or endangered. This recent order will severely impact Nevada ’s, and many other western states’, agricultural industries and their future livelihood.
“The significant federal ownership of land in many parts of Nevada already reduces the tax revenues upon which counties and local governments depend, and I am deeply concerned that this decision will exacerbate the negative impact by reducing the viability of local agricultural production upon which these counties depend,” Governor Gibbons concluded.
GOVERNOR TO MEET WITH U.S. SECRETARY OF INTERIOR DIRK KEMPTHORNE
Carson City— Tomorrow, Governor Jim Gibbons will meet with U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to discuss the federal government’s role in assisting Nevada with post-fire land rehabilitation efforts and the U.S. District Court’s recent decision to reverse a 2004 decision by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to not list the Sage Grouse as threatened or endangered. Secretary Kempthorne will be in Nevada to attend the annual Colorado River Water Users Association Conference.
Recently, Governor Gibbons signed a memorandum of understanding with Idaho , Utah , and Wyoming to outline and formulate a cooperative plan to ensure the continued coordinated support efforts for wildland fire fuels management and rehabilitation efforts between all four states. Each year, western states lose millions of acres of native vegetation to catastrophic wildfires.
“We are hopeful that our federal partners will join us in our mutual efforts to rehabilitate and reclaim lands affected by this year’s devastating wildfires. Failure to do so will result in an increased presence of invasive species such as cheat grass, red brome, and other annual grasses and exotic vegetation,” said Governor Gibbons.
Governor Gibbons and Secretary Kempthorne will also discuss the U.S. District Court’s order reversing a 2004 decision by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to not list the Sage Grouse as threatened or endangered. This recent order will severely impact Nevada ’s, and many other western states’, agricultural industries and their future livelihood.
“The significant federal ownership of land in many parts of Nevada already reduces the tax revenues upon which counties and local governments depend, and I am deeply concerned that this decision will exacerbate the negative impact by reducing the viability of local agricultural production upon which these counties depend,” Governor Gibbons concluded.
Woodwork is her creative outlet
unedited 12-07 Tahoe Mt. News
By Kathryn Reed
Creativity is everywhere. From the aroma wafting from the kitchen to the walls adorned with her mother’s handmade quilts to the dust from the various saws in the garage to the paints and woodwork in her studio.
Roberta Saling’s house is all about crafts.
It all started because she casually mentioned to her husband, Jack Wildberger, she would like to try her hand at wood. He bought her a scroll saw.
Since that gift of 16 or so years ago, Saling has accumulated an array of devices that have helped her evolve into the artist she is today.
“The drill press is probably the best thing (my husband) ever bought me because I can’t drill a straight hole for anything,” Saling said.
A box of snowman arms is near the sander. Scraps of wood and the dust associated with cutting intricate, small ornaments are left behind.
Pine and Baltic birch plywood are what she uses most. The latter doesn’t warp like pine.
Upstairs is where she likes it best – painting is her favorite part of the process.
“I’m into shading, not flat painting,” Saling said. “Some things I just do to see if I can do them, like more intricate painting.”
Just after the Holiday Faire at Valhalla she was working on items for a woman who lost everything in the Angora Fire. The survivor was able to pick up a manger and some other things that weekend, but asked Saling if she’d work on a few other replacements.
“She has bought things from me since 1994 … to the point that she said ‘I no longer have space’,” Saling said of the Angora survivor. Now the owner of Birdworks is helping her customer acquire woodwork for her home that she’ll move into in May.
Trees, bears and snowmen are Saling’s favorite themes. Holiday items top the list this time of year, but she has an array of goods, like welcome signs, that are appropriate everyday of the year.
Most of the pieces she cuts herself, though she’ll buy some designs and paint the raw wood.
She is self-taught. Though the quality and detail looks like she could teach a class or two, she is quick to say she could learn a lot if she ever took a course.
Just before the holiday faire, Saling was spending up to eight hours a day working on her craft. Work begins in September to make sure she has enough goods to sell at the annual event.
Several years ago she rented space in the Bijou Center where her woodwork was on display for sale. The shop closed. If a similar opportunity presents itself, she would do it. Saling admits the creative part comes easy for her. It’s the selling that is not her forte.
Saling may be reached at (530) 544-6883.
By Kathryn Reed
Creativity is everywhere. From the aroma wafting from the kitchen to the walls adorned with her mother’s handmade quilts to the dust from the various saws in the garage to the paints and woodwork in her studio.
Roberta Saling’s house is all about crafts.
It all started because she casually mentioned to her husband, Jack Wildberger, she would like to try her hand at wood. He bought her a scroll saw.
Since that gift of 16 or so years ago, Saling has accumulated an array of devices that have helped her evolve into the artist she is today.
“The drill press is probably the best thing (my husband) ever bought me because I can’t drill a straight hole for anything,” Saling said.
A box of snowman arms is near the sander. Scraps of wood and the dust associated with cutting intricate, small ornaments are left behind.
Pine and Baltic birch plywood are what she uses most. The latter doesn’t warp like pine.
Upstairs is where she likes it best – painting is her favorite part of the process.
“I’m into shading, not flat painting,” Saling said. “Some things I just do to see if I can do them, like more intricate painting.”
Just after the Holiday Faire at Valhalla she was working on items for a woman who lost everything in the Angora Fire. The survivor was able to pick up a manger and some other things that weekend, but asked Saling if she’d work on a few other replacements.
“She has bought things from me since 1994 … to the point that she said ‘I no longer have space’,” Saling said of the Angora survivor. Now the owner of Birdworks is helping her customer acquire woodwork for her home that she’ll move into in May.
Trees, bears and snowmen are Saling’s favorite themes. Holiday items top the list this time of year, but she has an array of goods, like welcome signs, that are appropriate everyday of the year.
Most of the pieces she cuts herself, though she’ll buy some designs and paint the raw wood.
She is self-taught. Though the quality and detail looks like she could teach a class or two, she is quick to say she could learn a lot if she ever took a course.
Just before the holiday faire, Saling was spending up to eight hours a day working on her craft. Work begins in September to make sure she has enough goods to sell at the annual event.
Several years ago she rented space in the Bijou Center where her woodwork was on display for sale. The shop closed. If a similar opportunity presents itself, she would do it. Saling admits the creative part comes easy for her. It’s the selling that is not her forte.
Saling may be reached at (530) 544-6883.
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