Volunteer Corner: Interview with Mike Blide

Mike Blide
Emma Garrard/Sierra Sun

February 7, 2007

Residence:
Truckee

How are you involved with the Truckee Trails Foundation?
I am the vice president of the board of directors. I’ve been on the board close to three years. I’m also head of the project committee.

What kind of trail projects have you worked on?
We’ve been working on a trail to connect Olympic Heights with downtown Truckee called Stockrest Springs Trail. We just recently worked on getting a dirt trail paved between China Cove and Donner State Park and South Shore Drive.

Why did you choose to volunteer with the Truckee Trails Foundation?
I am an avid trail runner and a mountain bike rider. (Truckee Trails Foundation) is the one thing in town that tricked my trigger. It’s the one thing that got me inspired.

The goal of the foundation is to create this network of connected trails. By the time my 9-year-old is ready to leave town, it should be done.

How often are you out on the trails?
My restaurant Cottonwood has adopted part of the Pacific Crest Trail, so we maintain that. I truly enjoy getting out and working on the trails. I love to just hike with my dogs and my family.

How long have you lived in the area?
I’ve been working and living in the area for 21 years.

Because you’re a restaurant owner, I have to ask: What’s your favorite food?
The bunny rabbit at Cottonwood — Rabbit Cassoulet. Yum yum.

The Sun’s Sierra Countis interviewed Blide for this week’s “Volunteer Corner.”