For the sixth consecutive year, the resorts in and around North Lake Tahoe would like to take some of the anxiety – and a lot of the cost – out of learning how to ski or snowboard. On the weekend of Dec. 9-10, first-timers can get an all-day beginner lift ticket, lessons and gear rental for $25 at Alpine Meadows, Boreal, Diamond Peak, Granlibakken, Homewood, Mt. Rose, Northstar, Squaw Valley or Sugar Bowl. There is no need to make reservations; simply arrive, preferably early, at the resort of choice and tell them you want to learn how to ride.