SAM Magazine--Reno, Nev., December 2, 2009--Sky Tavern's local ski program sustained damage to its lodge in a November 28 fire, but is slated to open for its normal program in early January. While the final report is not yet complete, the fire is suspected to have been electrical in origins. An employee apartment was completely destroyed, but much of the lodge was saved.

The Sky Tavern Junior Ski Program is a local 501(c)3 non-profit that has taught snow sports to local kids since 1948. Children are taught to ski and snowboard regardless of any physical or financial limitations and more than 100,000 kids have passed through the program.

While the organization was insured, executive director Bill Henderson does not expect it to cover all the costs of the fire and the program is accepting donations from the community. For information, call the First Independent Bank of Nevada at (775) 828-2000. To donate time, materials or services, call (775) 323-5125. Henderson has also asked for any ideas from the industry about getting up and running quickly. He can be reached at the above number or via e-mail at bill.henderson@skytavern.com.