Andy Wirth, CEO of Squaw Valley Ski Holdings and the chairman of the board of the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority Board of Trustees, takes a stand for the clean energy in his op-ed piece ‘Clean power a good move for environment, economy’ published in the Reno Gazette-Journal.

He graduated from Colorado State University in 1984 and today lives in Squaw Valley, California where he is the CEO and President of Squaw Valley Ski. After suffering a near fatal sky diving accident he co-founded the Ironman team, ‘Wounded Warrior Support.’ Besides supporting the troops, in particular, the NAVY Seals, he also is a major environmental contributor and activist calling for clean, renewable energy.

Wirth does more than just take a stand, he calls for action from legislators and the elected officials responsible for bringing change to our environmental policies. He applauded the steps taken by the Reno City Council to support the Clean Power Plan. This decision by the City of Reno is one among many in a movement, including many private sector companies to push for cleaner, renewable power. He states that decision like this one, will help ‘[keep] the pressure on our utilities and elected officials.’ Changes to clean energy needs to happen now, not some time in the future.

Companies like Apple, Microsoft and Tesla have made the commitment to support the Clean Power Plan. With this commitment comes high quality jobs to the region of Reno, Nevada. Wirth connects supporting the plan to supporting and growing the region’s economy.

With the technology available such as solar power and geothermal energy, Andy Wirth raises the question, why ‘[are we] still burning coal for electricity at the Valmy coal plant?’ By utilizing such technology companies and cities such as Reno can reduce their carbon foot print and improve the air quality and the quality of life in the region. He asks the elected officials to consider these issues logically and not give in to special interest groups. Changes need to be rapid. He concludes by re-stating how supporting the Clean Power Plan will benefit both the environment and the economy.

If the weather predictions are correct, skiing for the 2015-2016 season is going to be dynamite. If you’re looking for a place that is magical for the whole family, why not bring them over to the Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows ski resorts in Olympic Valley, California? Andy Wirth is the CEO and president of these well run resorts and the family atmosphere he has created here is definitely superior to others in the area. The Lake Tahoe area is known for its tranquil views, and if you need a break from the 9-5 then you need to get here as fast as you can.

It’s funny that so many people talk about California for its nice weather, heavenly atmosphere and superior shopping. However, not many mention the impeccable skiing conditions that exist in the northern half of the state. See, the sun only shines in the lower half year round, in the top of the state there are distinctive seasons that bring snow, rain, ice and pure winter bliss. Why not escape the routine and let the frustrations melt away flying down a mountain at the speed of light?

Wirth is doing amazing things to improve and continue the reputation of these resorts. There are so many things to see and do, you probably won’t have time to do them all. Kids enjoy the snow tubbing and the escalator that takes you up and down the mountain. An aerial tram ride over the mountain in a climate controlled car also proves to be a big hit. Why not warm up by one of the fireplaces inside the lodge with some hot cocoa and a cookie or two? Then of course there’s the whole reason why people come here, the skiing is the best in the country. Forget Aspen, they don’t hold a candle to Olympic, CA.

Many people are surprised to learn that Andy Wirth is a man who lost his arm in a skydiving accident. You would never know that he is disabled to look at him now. He is a man with vision, leadership and an intense desire to be on top. He is a father, husband and fierce leader who knows how to motivate his people through working alongside them. Part of the success of these resorts is the fact that he is at the helm. Book your next vacation destination to this area and be sure to explore all there is too offer for both resorts.