With all of the change and uncertainty the world is experiencing, it is hard to keep perspective. In reality these are “the best of times and the worst of times”. How we deal with it is really up to us.
Here at Lakeside Inn we are so grateful that we do business in Lake Tahoe. After all, no matter what happens we will always have the “Lake”. A constant reminder of a plan more grand than anything man could have created.
Perhaps it is a good thing that we are all forced to look harder at how we spend and save. Things were flying pretty high for a while there.
Forever Lakeside Inn has been focused on quality at a good value. Our locals are well versed at seeking out the best deals and have made Lakeside Inn part of their local experience.
We will continue to offer value in all aspects of our guest’s experience. Our gaming offers are not usurious. Our food, beverage and Inn products are reasonably priced. Our promotions are designed to enrichen the experience. We treat you the way we would want to be treated.
Getting back to the uncertainty of things, I am reminded of a great line from a dumb sci-fi movie where the alien said, “Humans are at their best when things are at the worst”. I believe this to be true.
I was born in Columbus, Ohio in 1950. I lived in New York City and San Francisco before moving to Lake Tahoe in 1986. I am a graduate of the University of California Berkeley and a CPA with banking and brokerage experience. I'm married to Kathy and we have two daughters, Kay and Betsy. I am a cyclist, pilot and active in motor sports.
Unfortunately, my public accounting experience occurred at the firm of Arthur Andersen & Company. At the time I worked there we were the most conservative and thorough of the "Big 8" firms. However, now my professional experience has become the brunt of many jokes. It is a good thing I am in the casino business to lend a little credibility to my reputation.
Lon Rusk, President
I was born and raised in California. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay area, I was exposed to Lake Tahoe at a young age. While attending the University of California at Santa Barbara, I worked summers as a craps dealer at Harrah's Lake Tahoe, closing the Thrifty Gambler in 1969. After a two year, seven month, eleven day stint in the Army, (who's counting?) I returned to Tahoe for what was intended to be one more summer.
This was 29 years ago. I guess Tahoe has a grip on me. I worked for seven years at the Sahara Tahoe, now Horizon, which was the first Las Vegas style casino in Tahoe. In 1980 I jumped highway 50 to work at the new Caesars Tahoe. This ended ten years later, when I moved to Lakeside Inn. Yes, it's obvious, I can't keep a job.
Pam Wheeler, Marketing Manager, Poker Manager
I am a second generation native Californian, born in Oakland, CA in 1954. I grew up in San Jose, CA when that valley was known as an agricultural valley, not Silicon Valley. My husband, Sky, and I enjoy all that Tahoe has to offer-great weather, great friends, and the great outdoors. We enjoy hiking with our two German Shepherd dogs, biking, water and snow skiing. Tahoe has been our home since 1983.
Mike Furbee, Slot Manager
I was born in California in 1946. After an honorable discharge from the Air Force (Ours) in 1969, I fled the Bay Area under cover of darkness and stopped in Lake Tahoe for breakfast. After mastering the art of playing keno, I decided to find a job so I could make enough money to get out of town. I spent the next 15 years in the Slot Department at the old Sahara Tahoe, then in 1985 moved down the street to Lakeside Inn. I have lived in the Carson Valley for 30 years.
My lovely child bride, Kathi, and I share a house with "Izzy", "Sunny" and "Annie", our Boston Terriers (Boston Terrors). My hobbies include fishing, hiking, and target shooting.
Don Caspary, Security Manager
I was born December 29, 1960 in Oakland, CA. I am one of nine children who were raised in the San Francisco bay area. I moved to Lake Tahoe in 1978 after vacationing here and falling in love with the beauty of the mountains and the lake. I enjoy fishing, hunting, camping and spending quality time with my grandsons.
I came to work for Lakeside Inn and Casino in the spring of 1995 as a security officer and enjoyed the challenge so much that now I hold the position of security manager.
Sheila Hogan, Personnel Manager
I was born in 1965 in upstate New York, where there are mountains and trees, too. I received a BA in Sociology from the University of New York at Albany. I ran out of money after traveling the United States for 6 months and landed in Lake Tahoe. I planned to stay one summer and, 19 years later, I am still here. My mother is still waiting for me to move back to NY. I spend most of my time away from Lakeside with my 14 year old twins.
David Robberson, Food Manager
I was raised in a small town called Oakhurst, just south of Yosemite National Park. I spent most of my younger years bass fishing, hunting, crawdading and golfing. I used to come to Tahoe on vacation and loved the scenic views and great people. One day I decided to leave my hometown and move somewhere cooler. My wife Jennifer and I packed up the kids, cats, dog and fish and just went for it. At that time we did not have a place to live, just a job opportunity at a nice casino which we enjoyed visiting, Lakeside Inn and Casino.
My first winter here, which happened to be one of the worst ever, made me realize that I might have made a bad decision. The warm welcome and genuine sincerity of the locals made things all better. This is the main reason I have stayed in Tahoe and at Lakeside Inn. I am still enjoying all the activities that I did as a child. This town has all of that to offer and much more.
Tracy Mitchell, Finance Manager
I was born in Burbank, California in 1971. I grew up in the San Fernando Valley and yes, I was totally a “Valley Girl” for sure. I am a fourth generation native Californian and moved to Tahoe in March of 1997. I feel as if I have come home. I had never worked in a casino before and thought I would stop in to see what it was all about. Fortunately, an accounting position was available and my career at Lakeside started in 1997.
I also have to thank Lakeside for meeting my husband; the Tavern at Lakeside is a great place to watch a Red Sox game and meet your future husband. We enjoy all that Tahoe has to offer and the people who live here and visit. What a life!
Phil Gielow, Facilities Maintenance Manager
I was born in Elko, Nevada in 1960, moved to Lake Tahoe in 1976. I graduated from George Whittell High School in Zephyr Cove and started a career in the casino industry as a Facilities Mechanic. I worked for Harrah’s Entertainment in Stateline in the Engineering Department for 27 years, more than half my life. I am now part of this great company Lakeside Inn and Casino as the Facilities Manager where I hope to grow old. I have 2 wonderful children Whitney and Philip who also attended or currently attend George Whittell High School. Philip is in the class of 2010. I enjoy hunting, fishing, snow and water skiing, dirt bike and street bike riding, golf, camping or anything else related to outdoor activities. I reside in Garnerville, NV with my lovely wife Myrna and our little dog Gino.
Stacy Dingman, Quality Assurance and Inn Manager
Born and raised in Canandaigua, New York, I never dreamed that I would end up in beautiful Lake Tahoe. After obtaining my degree from Purdue University, I began my career in the Casinos in Atlantic City, New Jersey. After working for both the Showboat and the Sands in Atlantic City, I started my journey west in search of a gaming career. After a brief stop in Council Bluffs, Iowa opening Ameristar Casino, I made my way to Las Vegas. It was there at Harrah’s Las Vegas that I worked hard to earn a promotion to Harrahs in Lake Tahoe. The original plan was to stay for only two years and return to Las Vegas. But Tahoe took a hold of me and I now have enjoyed living in Tahoe for 13 years. I was lucky enough to join Lakeside Inn and Casino in late 2007, completing my quest to “Live like a Local”. My only regret is that in all this time I have never learned how to ski. This is my year, so look out Heavenly...here I come!
Shirley Stroud was an employee at Lakeside Inn and Casino who many of our guests and staff knew and loved. Shirley demonstrated attitude, courage, and a caring character in dimensions that are an inspiration to many of the "We." In memory and honor of Shirley we believe it is fitting to recognize other people with an award bearing her name.
Dave Robberson - Shirley Stroud Excellence Award
Dave Robberson, Food Manager, has been selected as the fourth recipient of the Shirley Stroud Award. His excellent guest service, caring character, and outstanding 'We' attitude made him the perfect candidate for this award.
Dave has displayed all of these qualities and many more during his 8½ years with Lakeside Inn. It is an honor and a privilege to have him as part of our staff. Congratulations, Dave!
Donna Kirchoff - Shirley Stroud Excellence Award
Longtime Slot Keyperson and relief Shift Supervisor Donna Kichoff was awarded Lakeside Inn’s special Shirley Stroud Excellence Award for the outstanding personal recognition and warm, friendly service she consistently provides our guests. Shirley will always be with us in spirit and we feel she would be pleased with our choice. Like Shirley, Donna has always been one of our guests’ favorite staff members. Guests return to Lakeside Inn day after day, year after year to see her.
Patty Soleta - Shirley Stroud Excellence Award
We are proud to announce that Patty Soleta, Housekeeping Supervisor, is the recipient of the Shirley Stroud Excellence Award. Patty has worked in the Housekeeping Department for almost 19 years, always going beyond what is expected of her. On her own initiative she sewed custom drapes in the executive suite. Guests often ask Patty to decorate their rooms for a birthday party they are having.
Patty does all this without hesitation even though it burdens her busy schedule. A luncheon was given in Patty's honor in The Taberna Restaurant. Thanks, Patty, for your caring attitude and for being an excellent example of the Mission Statement in action.
Rick Hanson - Shirley Stroud Excellence Award
We are proud to announce that Rick Hanson, Games Dealer, is the recipient of the Shirley Stroud Excellence Award.
“I could always count on Ricky, whether it be for help in solving difficult situations or being there when I needed him. Ricky always had Lakeside in mind.” -Bill Wagoner
Julie Holzhauer has been a welcome addition to Lakeside Inn in the Cage/Guest Services areas since October 2007, and is currently the back up Senior Cashier on graveyard. Her knowledge of Cage and Guest Service functions is second only to her ability to engage every guest in every transaction. Julie recognizes all of the graveyard regulars by name and always exceeds our guests’ expectations with friendliness and fun! Congratulations, Julie and thanks for your contributions to the Team!
July 2010 — Beau Crazysnake
Congratulations to Beau Crazysnake from the Engineering Department on his selection as our July employee of the month. Beau started in August 2008 and has been an outstanding addition to the department and Lakeside Inn. He works all shifts and is more than willing to cover days off and vacations for other staff members. He is consistent in doing whatever it takes to get the job done. He is a great team player and always remembers the "We". Beau has a great variety of skills and always comes through to complete his tasks with quality and professionalism. Thank you, Beau, for your hard work and dedication. It’s a pleasure to have you on the Lakeside team!
June 2010 — Darcy Suss
Darcy is so terrific to work with and her attitude is contagious. We are so happy that Darcy has joined the Lakeside family and brings such fun to work with her each day. She has been instrumental in helping the Finance Department maintain consistent service to all departments with a positive and professional attitude. She has made great contributions and is willing to help any who require assistance. Darcy will tackle any assignment with enthusiasm and fun.
May 2010 — (from left to right): Clara Dente (Beverage), Lori Royal (Beverage), Mike Furbee (Slots), Patty Soleta (Housekeeping), Bob Schultz (Engineering)
These staff members have been working at Lakeside since the property opened in 1985! Each contributes to Lakeside’s success on a daily basis and have done so day in and day out for 25 years. We are fortunate to work with such outstanding people! We look forward to the next 25 years being even greater.
April 2010 — Tracy Zehner
Since the day Tracy started with us she has consistently displayed our Mission Statement in every aspect of her job. She is praised regularly by both staff and guests regarding her positive, can-do attitude. There is no task too big or too small for Tracy. No matter what is asked of her, she does it efficiently, accurately, and most importantly, with a smile on her face. It is truly a pleasure and honor to have her on our team. Congratulations, Tracy!
March 2010 — Sergio Arreola
Sergio came to Lakeside in September 2005 and worked as a hostperson/cashier of the then Taberna Restaurant. His tenacity and personality made him an ideal person to promote to a food server position when he became old enough! He is an attentive and caring server. Our guests love and enjoy his personal greeting. Sergio always goes out of his way to make our guests feel welcome and at ease. His quick wit changes to accommodate all guests. His personal focus for Latin Soul guests is to make sure they enjoy their dining experience and leave craving more Latin Soul experiences. Sergio is a great example of our Mission Statement. Congratulations, Sergio, on this outstanding recognition! Great job and keep the fun going!
February 2010 — Sonia Medina
The Guest Services department is proud to announce that Sonia Medina is Lakeside Inn’s Employee of the Month for February 2010. Sonia returned to LSI in September 2009 as a Guest Services Cashier. Sonia was selected because of her outgoing, friendly personality and great guest service skills. Many guests remember her from her previous stints in Slots and the Cage, and ask for her by name. Sonia recently transferred back to Slots, where she is a welcome addition to dayshift. We miss Sonia in Guest Services, but we know wherever Sonia works, she is an asset to the Lakeside Inn team.
January 2010 — Santos Nunez
I am proud to recognize Santos Nunez as our January 2010 Employee of the Month. Santos came to Lakeside Inn and Casino in November of 2006 as a Security Officer. Santos has worked hard and demonstrated his care and dedication to Lakeside and his department. He became a dual-rated officer/supervisor in September 2007 and then was promoted to our swing shift Security Supervisor in December 2008. Over the years, Santos has proved to be a valuable asset to our Security Department and to Lakeside. Please stop by and congratulate Santos. Thanks, Santos, and keep up the good work!
December 2009 — Sandy Shields
It is our pleasure to announce Sandy Shields as our Employee of the Month for December 2009. Sandy joined the beverage staff many years ago after working in the cashier's cage. She quickly became a favorite of both her co-workers and guests. Currently working the dayshift, Sandy has been a vital team player by having worked all shifts as needed for the good of the department. She knows most of our guests by name and their favorite beverage of choice. We invite you to stop by and see for yourself the wonderful hospitality Sandy delivers on a daily basis. She'll even bring you your favorite drink served up with her trademark friendly smile and fun attitude. Congratulations, Sandy, on this well deserved honor. You're a great ambassador for Lakeside and the entire beverage department! Sandy is a two-time Employee of the Month, receiving it the first time in May 1999!
November 2009 — Kim Aynedter
Kim is our November Employee of the Month due to her outgoing personality and helpful assistance to everyone. She always has smile on her face and greets our guests by name. She makes everyone's day! Kim's outstanding guest interaction makes all our guests feel special and at ease. She is a leading example of our Mission Statement. Kim does a great job making sure everything runs smoothly at the Coffee Bar. Congratulations, Kim !!!
October 2009 — Ernesto Nava
Our October Employee of the Month is Ernesto Nava from our Housekeeping Department. Ernesto is a true team player and works hard each day. He goes the extra mile whether cleaning windows or shampooing the carpets. Ernesto is a pleasure to work with and we congratulate him on this special recognition! Thanks, Ernesto, for all of your contributions.
September 2009 — Mike Hedger
We are thrilled that Mike has been chosen as September's Employee of the Month! We are so proud of his contributions to the Front Desk! Mike's work ethic defines what it means to be a team player, often making sacrifices to ensure that our guests and team members receive the attention and support they need. Mike has also been extremely flexible with his schedule and has frequently worked extra hours and odd shifts to help out the team. Mike, you are an invaluable member at the Front Desk and we can't thank you enough! Congratulations on a job well done!
