STATELINE, Nev. – The Tahoe Transportation District (TTD), in partnership with the Tahoe Douglas Visitors Authority (TDVA), is expanding south shore transit options with the launch of Route 51, beginning Thursday, September 11, 2025.
This new route will operate Thursdays through Saturdays only (serving the Y Transit Center to Kingbury Transit Center) and is designed to better serve both residents and visitors during late-night travel periods. Route 51 is ideal for service industry workers, event staff, and concertgoers who need safe, reliable transportation after traditional operating hours.
The introduction of Route 51 builds on the success of TTD’s 50x pilot program, which demonstrated strong community demand for expanded service. The pilot confirmed that targeted, high-frequency routes can improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and provide meaningful alternatives to driving.
Updated maps and schedules will be available on the TTD website and Transit app.
“The 50x pilot showed the demand for expanded service and Route 51 delivers on that need,” said Jim Marino, Executive Director of the Tahoe Transportation District. “Our goal is to offer reliable and efficient transit that works for both residents and visitors, including late-night travelers.
The launch of Route 51 emphasizes TTD’s mission to incrementally enhance mobility, reduce traffic impacts, and improve the rider experience across the Lake Tahoe Basin.
For details on Tahoe Transportation District and its current projects, visit www.TahoeTransportation.org or call (775) 589-5500.
EL DORADO, Calif. – French bulldogs are often known for cute costumes and big city living, but one divergent Frenchie traded the dress-up for a walking harness and the big city life for the mountains. Eben defied the small dog status quo with his daring and bold adventures, including summiting Mount Tallac on more than one occasion.
Eben after summiting Mount Tallac. Provided
“I’ve never heard of a Frenchie doing what he did, and he wasn’t struggling, and he loved it,” Renee Baffert said, who rescued Eben in 2010. “He always got made fun of on the trail in Tahoe by people with big dogs.”
Eben didn’t let the gawks, age, or a five year battle with cancer stop him. In fact, at the age of 12 and in the middle of his fight with cancer, he climbed Mount Tallac for the second time. That’s an 11-mile hike and a roughly 3,200-foot elevation gain.
He maintained his passion for the outdoors and tenacity, even to the very end, hiking three miles the day before he passed away in 2024.
“We have these vulnerable parts that feel small, and we also have these very big, larger than life parts, and I think a lot of people put down what is small,” Baffert says, who created a short film that captures Eben’s fearless spirit and demonstrates that you don’t need to be a big dog to do big things.
Baffert, who has labeled the film a “dogumentary,” produced and wrote the film to capture the chapter of her life with Eben and to also relay her heart philosophies as she endured anxiety and anticipatory grief at Eben’s diagnosis.
Told through Eben’s perspective, the approximately 14-minute film offers valuable reminders for humans, often exemplified by our K9 companions. Being present and grateful within the limited time that we have and not letting size or other limitations stop us are just a few of the powerful lessons Eben guides the viewer through.
The dogumentary was an idea stirring in Baffert for about five years. She had frequented many film festivals and took note of the animal-human connection stories, often featuring a man and his big dog.
“I think there’s a story here about a woman and her small dog,” she had thought, taking in the van-life shared by her, her partner, Michael Morse, and Eben. Morse, who narrates the film, has a career as photographer, which takes them many places.
The story of Eben, a small dog, hitting the big road with Baffert, Morse and eventually a second Frenchie, named Lassen, has touched over 6,000 viewers, and is making its way through multiple film festivals.
Renee Baffert, Michael Morse and Eben on Mount Tallac. Provided
It won the Deb Bauer Unsung Hero Award at the 2024 Catalina Film Festival, which honors individuals whose dedication and hard work often goes unnoticed but are crucial to the success of a community. The festival is known for being a creative outlet where many celebrities submit their creative works. Surrounded by these stars at the festival, what struck Baffert was how Eben’s story sparked connection.
“There’s all these famous people,” she recalled, “it didn’t matter that we’re the poor ones, or we’re nobodies, they all just wanted to come up and show me a photo of their dog. That love, that understanding cut through all barriers.”
Bafferts finds it hard some days to watch the film after Eben’s passing, and other days it brings joy and laughter. The grieving process has moved her to create a supportive space for others grieving their pets, bringing in her decade plus experience in human grief counseling.
If you’ve ever wished for a dog who can make you laugh and steal every squeaky toy in sight, Jetta is your guy. This goofy boy is basically a stand-up comedian with fur, minus the microphone, and he’s ready to fill your home with love, laughter, and the occasional squeak-symphony.
All jokes aside, Jetta is a lovable goofball with a heart as big as his adorable curly tail! This handsome boy is overflowing with love to share. Whether he’s trotting happily through the woods or squeaking away on his favorite toy, Jetta is guaranteed to bring joy to your day.
Jetta is this week’s Pet of the Week. Provided / HSTT
Jetta is a dream on a leash and enjoys getting out for walks, making him the perfect outdoor adventure buddy. His listening skills? Jetta is very trainable since he is incredibly food and toy-motivated. He learns quickly and actually enjoys the training time. With a little consistency, he’ll be showing off his commands like a pro.
When he’s not out exploring or learning new tricks, Jetta can be found surrounded by his impressive collection of stuffies. He’s a proud little hoarder, probably holding the record for the most stuffed toys in any of our animals’ rooms right now. And we can’t forget one of Jetta’s cutest features, his curly-Q tail! Staff here call it his “fluffy cinnamon roll,” and it’s just as sweet as it sounds.
If you’re looking for a fun-loving, loyal companion who will keep you smiling, Jetta just might be your perfect match. If you are interested in learning more about Jetta, please reach out to one of HSTT’s Adoption Specialists at 530-587-5948 or adoptions@hstt.org. He is neutered, fully vaccinated, and microchipped. To view more adoptable pets or to learn more about the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe, please visit www.hstt.org.
Your smile is one of your most important assets—not just for confidence, but for overall health. Keeping up with your teeth goes beyond brushing and flossing. Regular dental visits are key to catching small issues before they become big problems.
Here are a few recommendations I always share with my patients:
1. Brush & Floss Daily Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Think of it as daily maintenance for your teeth.
2. Watch Your Drinks Sugary sodas, energy drinks, and even fruit juices can wear down enamel. Water is always your best bet—it helps wash away acids and keeps your mouth hydrated.
3. Don’t Skip Dental Checkups Even if your teeth feel fine, I recommend visiting your dentist at least once a year for an exam and cleaning. Prevention is always easier—and less expensive—than treatment.
4.Snack Smart Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and celery not only fuel your body but also naturally help clean your teeth.
5. Protect Your Smile If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, consider a custom mouthguard. Protecting your teeth now can save you major treatment later.
Closing Note: “As a dentist, my goal is to help our community stay healthy and confident in their smiles. A little daily care and routine checkups go a long way. Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime–let’s take care of them together.”
When we consider physical health, metrics that come to mind include blood pressure, pulse, and body temperature, among others. These metrics are considered “vital signs” because they offer clear indicators of health. But what if we’ve been overlooking an essential determinant of health — our support systems? Increasingly, research suggests that social and professional support is just as critical as traditional metrics, influencing everything from mental health to recovery outcomes. It’s time to view support as a vital sign.
Humans are hardwired for connection. Historically, survival depended on being part of a group. Today, our need for support shields us from the modern-day threats of isolation, stress, and chronic disease.
Studies show that people with strong social ties live longer, have lower rates of depression and anxiety, and recover more effectively from illness. In fact, one landmark study from Holt-Lunstad et al. found that lacking strong social connections carries a risk of premature death comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Additionally, newly released results from the U.S. POINTER study showed that lifestyle interventions, including cognitive and social stimulation, improved overall cognition in older adults at risk for dementia. Participants in a highly structured program with more support experienced greater cognitive benefits than those in a self-guided program.
Why Support Matters in Health Outcomes
● Mental health: A supportive friend, partner, or group can buffer stress, reduce feelings of loneliness, and encourage healthier coping strategies
● Chronic illness management: Patients with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or chronic pain often do better when they have a broad support system encouraging adherence to treatment and lifestyle changes
● Life transitions: Divorce, caregiving, retirement, or grief can feel overwhelming when faced alone. Support can make the difference between resilience and prolonged struggle.
Just as doctors measure blood pressure to predict cardiovascular risk, assessing a person’s level of social and professional support could provide critical insight into their overall health trajectory.
Imagine if healthcare providers asked, “Who do you turn to when you’re stressed? How connected do you feel to your community? Do you have professional or peer support for your health challenges?” These questions reveal underlying risks that numbers alone might miss.
By framing support as a vital sign, we acknowledge that health is not just physical—it’s relational. You can have ideal lab results, but if you feel isolated, unsupported, or overwhelmed, your long-term outcomes are at risk.
If support is truly vital, cultivating it should be an intentional process. This can mean:
● Strengthening friendships through regular check-ins
● Joining support groups or wellness programs
● Engaging in faith, community, or volunteer groups
● Asking for professional guidance when facing major life or health transitions
Support is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Just as we monitor our sleep and diet, we should regularly assess and nurture our support systems. When we frame support as a vital sign, we expand the definition of health to reflect what humans truly need: not only healthy, functioning bodies, but also meaningful, sustaining connection.
If you need help finding support, check with local churches, community organizations, service organizations, community colleges, libraries, agencies, HOAs, and recreation departments, many of whom offer support and interest-based groups. Tahoe Forest Wellness offers health and wellbeing support groups for a wide variety of interests and conditions. Visit tfhd.com/wellness to learn more.
If you are like most people out there, you probably have some level of concern about having enough money to live out the rest of your life in comfort. You might feel uncertainty in the economy, you’ve probably read that the Social Security Trust Fund will run dry in less than 10 years (note: that does not mean Social Security will stop paying benefits), and there are plenty of experts saying real estate is too expensive and the markets are overpriced.
With all of these reasonable concerns out there, it is more important than ever that you have a good investment plan to ensure that you have the money that you need, when you need it.
Your investment plan should be personal and geared towards your unique situation. The “gurus” who give the same advice to everyone, such as “pay off your mortgage early” or “invest in dividend stocks”, are doing you no favor by treating you as a number and giving everyone the same advice. Remember that they might be looking to generate income for themselves by building up a mass following of people who will either pay for their program or click on their links.
Like a good financial plan, your investment plan should consider your goals, your timeframe (when will you need some cash, and how much?), your risk tolerance, and a host of other factors. Your starting point, then, is to determine what those are for you and your family.
Once those key basics are written down clearly, you are ready to determine your asset mix. Remember that stocks are riskier than bonds, which are riskier than cash. Because investors should be compensated for taking risk, the long-term expected returns of a good stock portfolio are higher than those of bonds, which have higher long-term expected returns than cash.
Diversification is critical in reducing risk and volatility. If you are a homeowner or own multiple properties, you probably don’t want a lot of stocks of real estate companies, since home equity is often an investor’s biggest source of wealth. If you own no real estate, having some stocks in the sector or investing a portion of your portfolio in a Real Estate Investment Trust may make sense. Precious metals (think gold, silver, platinum) and Alternative Investments can also be used as diversification, when appropriate.
Discipline is important. Many studies have shown that individual investors who trade frequently end up lagging the market. Worse yet, there is strong evidence that trying to time the market can dramatically reduce your returns. A well-designed portfolio should need only occasional tweaks, along with periodic rebalancing. Of course, if your life situation changes dramatically, more dramatic portfolio changes may be in order to match those changes!
Although there are numerous other factors to be considered in building your investment plan, I’ll mention just one more here: tax considerations. A good investment plan often involves both taxable and tax-deferred (401(k), IRA, etc) accounts. Roth IRA accounts can be beneficial to some investors. And generally speaking, there is some strategy to which investments to put into which accounts.
Take time to properly educate yourself before making your investment plan. The more you understand your plan, the more confidence you’ll have sticking with it. Your lifetime earnings are too important to leave to chance!
However you choose to build your investment plan, invest smart and invest well!
Larry Sidney is a Zephyr Cove-based Investment Advisor Representative. Information is found at https://palisadeinvestments.com/ or by calling 775-299-4600 x702. This is not a solicitation to buy or sell securities. Clients may hold positions mentioned in this article. Returns are not guaranteed and past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult your financial advisor before purchasing any security.
Over the past 20 years, the frequency and scope of wildfires have grown significantly, placing more U.S. counties at higher risk than ever before. Factors such as drier and hotter conditions, prolonged droughts, extreme winds, and population growth in the high-risk wildland-urban interface have all contributed to this increase in wildfire risk. However, over the past decade, breakthroughs in technology and industry best practices have created new opportunities for utilities managing these risks.In response to these increasing challenges, NV Energy launched Power Safe NV in 2019 to develop a comprehensive natural disaster protection plan with the goal of creating a safer and more reliable electrical grid
Following the passage of SB329 by the Nevada State Legislature, and implemented by a team of dedicated experts, Power Safe NV focuses on rebuilding power lines, removing hazardous vegetation, modifying traditional operating practices, and responding to potential wildfire threats. Situational awareness is a crucial component of Power Safe NV, as having accurate and timely information is essential for making critical, real-time, decisions to safely operate electrical equipment.
To enhance situational awareness, NV Energy has installed wildfire alert cameras across its service territory. These cameras complement the expanding ALERTWest network of fire cameras throughout the western United States and are accessible to the public, fire agencies, and other utilities for fire mitigation efforts. NV Energy has currently deployed 26 wildfire cameras to monitor high-risk areas within its service territory.
These wildfire alert cameras are equipped with artificial intelligence for 24/7 detection of potential fire threats. When the smart cameras identify a wildfire, a notification is sent to local fire agencies, Bureau of Land Management and United States Forest Service partners, public safety partners, and NV Energy, providing real-time information to responding agencies to better coordinate a response. Since NV Energy’s initial pilot of the cameras in 2020, they’ve been critical to our ability to respond quickly to ensure the safety of our customers and the reliability of our grid. Looking ahead, NV Energy is exploring additional ways to integrate artificial intelligence into its wildfire prevention operations. NV Energy recently received approval to expand the use of AI in its vegetation management program.
AI software will allow NV Energy to gather data using satellite images, which are then analyzed in combination with other information. The AI continuously learns to improve vegetation management by optimizing where and when treatments should be applied, which can help deploy resources more efficiently and reduce wildfire risk. Effective vegetation management is key to lowering wildfire risk, and using these technologies can aid in creating more effective programs.
Artificial intelligence is one of the many tools in NV Energy’s toolkit to improve the systems that serve their customers. By combining traditional partnerships with fire agencies, public safety partners, and the community with new and evolving AI technologies, electric utilities are building a smarter, safer, and stronger system to serve communities.
For a number of reasons, the District is currently on Fiscal Watch by the Nevada Department of Taxation’s Committee on Local Government: late filings, and continuing problems with internal controls (recently evidenced by an IVGID error resulting in nearly a $12,000 cost for Washoe County to mail out 8200 corrected property tax bills).
The $1,000 increase in most Incline Village property tax bills, due primarily to IVGID’s increased Facility Fees, has drawn more attention. IVGID has acknowledged that approximately 150 property owners called them to voice objections to the recent tripling of the facility fees ($450 last year to $1375 this year). I’ve personally spoken with a number of my neighbors who are retired and on fixed income and reeling under the strain of this financial burden.
The Department of Taxation is the agency charged with protecting the citizens of the state of Nevada against this kind of uncontrolled tax burden. Specifically, NRS354.472 details the purposes of the Local Government Finance Act, in part,
“1 (d) To provide for the control of revenues, expenditures and expenses in order to promote prudence and efficiency in the expenditure of public money.
(e) To provide specific methods enabling the public, taxpayers and investors to be apprised of the financial preparations, plans, policies and administration of all local governments. 2. For the accomplishment of these purposes, the provisions (of NRS 354.470 to 354.626, inclusive,) must be broadly and liberally construed.”
That phrase “broadly and liberally construed” places the authority, as well as the duty of the Committee and the Department to provide for the “control of revenues”. Allowing something to be collected as an unlimited “fee” when it has all the earmarks of a tax does not fulfill that duty. Even the District’s General Manager referred to the fees as an “annual tax levy” in the glossy new Fall IVGID Quarterly.
No prudence, no efficiency
We’ve seen the resultant losses and ever-growing need to feed the monstrous assortment of poorly managed businesses: bars, restaurants, golf courses, and tennis/pickleball center all operating under the “umbrella” of public recreation. Even the fairly well-run ski area has looming capital projects where revenues will not come close to meeting the expenses. Financial reports for the individual operations are either non-existent or extremely deceptive, calling the fees operational revenue.
Calling IVGID’s collection of millions of dollars from property owners a “fee” (with no cap), has enabled the very imprudence and inefficiency in spending the public’s money that NRS354 was intended to prevent. IVGID builds up millions from these unrestricted fees in its Recreation and Beach funds, undermining the need for responsible spending.
IVGID’s reporting serves to confuse, not apprise, the taxpayers
For years, IVGID has insisted and continues to insist on listing the Facility Fees as operational revenue, even though they have nothing to do with operations. And as we have seen, IVGID has repeatedly failed to enable the public, taxpayers and investors to be apprised of its financial preparations, plans, policies and administration. Among other things, remember how little public outreach occurred before increasing the fee for the $11M structure to house a couple more restrooms and a snack shack.
Even if the reporting improves, nothing will stop IVGID from increasing and collecting this limitless “fee” unless the Department intervenes. The fee originated in 1968 when property owners were given little choice if they wanted to secure the beaches promised by the developer. They were told the fee would never increase. That $50 fee is projected to be nearly $2,000 per parcel in just 5 years, even more when costs for longstanding needs like the Snowflake Lodge and Rec Center gymnasium are added. Had IVGID’s charges been considered a tax, with a 3% cap like our property taxes, this year’s charge to each parcel would only be $270, not $1375. In 2030 it would be just $315, not $2,000.
Many of our property owners are on fixed incomes. Although IVGID may never be faced with the inability to pay their bills because they have this unlimited fee, the same does not hold true for these property owners. For them the severe financial emergency is already here.
Please contact the Department of Taxation’s Executive Director, Shellie Hughes, shughes@tax.state.nv.gov and ask her to protect our taxpayers from unlimited future increases to this tax in fee’s clothing.
We are BEAR League volunteers who were present last week on Butler Avenue, where the California Department of Fish and Wildlife had issued a “shoot to kill” order for a bear known as Hope. Unlike Charlton Bonham, the author of a recent letter to the editor and Director of CDFW, we saw with our own eyes what really happened. The sanitized, bureaucratic version published in Bonham’s recent opinion piece bears little resemblance to the reality we witnessed that day.
Bonham’s lawyerly choice of language reveals everything: “invasion,” “agitated, hostile crowd,” “interference.” These loaded words paint a picture of chaos and obstruction where none existed. We saw concerned neighbors who had watched Hope and Bounce, a family whose natural food sources continue to disappear while human attractants remain unsecured throughout our South Lake Tahoe neighborhoods.
Yes, Hope entered the home. But calling it an “invasion” is like calling a starving person’s search for food in a supermarket dumpster a “robbery.” Hope wasn’t maliciously plotting against human property—she was doing what any mother would do to feed her cub in an environment where garbage cans remain unsecured, fruit trees go unharvested, and open/unlocked doors and windows practically invite her into food-laden kitchens.
The “agitated, hostile crowd” Bonham describes? We were part of that group. The “interference” that supposedly “forced police to escort staff to safety”? That was residents asking why this predictable situation had been allowed to escalate for so long, why our previous calls for action have gone unanswered, and whether the cub would be separated from his mother. These weren’t threatening questions—they were the reasonable concerns of a community that has watched CDFW’s reactionary approach fail repeatedly. And the CDFW staff member remained on scene after police and fire left, calling into doubt her concerns for her safety.
We’ve lived in South Lake Tahoe for years, unlike Director Bonham, who has the luxury of spectating and speculating from his high-rise office building in Sacramento. We’ve seen the same cycle play out every week on our bear responses: bears adapt to human food sources because those sources remain available, CDFW responds with traps or “shoot to kill” orders when property damage occurs, and then the community is blamed for the “interference” of caring about the outcome.
Bonham mentions CDFW’s “Trap-Tag-Haze program” as if it’s some innovative solution. Bonham says that the program relocates bears, but residents know the reality: CDFW relocates bears less than five miles away from South Lake Tahoe, and the same tagged bears return again and again because the fundamental attractants remain unchanged. We’ve watched “hazed” bears come back within days, sometimes hours, because a few miles and a few paintball hits don’t outweigh hunger when garbage and pet food remain accessible.
What Bonham calls “public education” feels more like victim-blaming to those of us living with the consequences. Yes, residents need to secure attractants—but what about the vacation rentals whose out-of-state guests leave trash unsecured every weekend? What about the commercial properties whose dumpsters remain bear-accessible? What about enforcement of existing ordinances or crafting more stringent regulations? What about punishing those who bait and then shoot bears, claiming self-defense?
And directing callers to the Tahoe Interagency Bear Team is pointless. Days go by before a return call, and even longer for an in-person response. By contrast, BEAR League has a 24/7 telephone hotline at (530) 525-7297, with volunteers who when needed will respond on-scene within minutes. BEAR League’s staff coaches residents and visitors by phone, with the goal of getting facts out about Tahoe’s bears. BEAR League is invited to speak about living in harmony with bears at events all over the Tahoe region. What we don’t do is sit in skyscrapers and impotently pontificate about programs that just don’t work on the ground.
The most telling phrase in Bonham’s entire letter is the complaint about groups encouraging people to “witness” CDFW operations. Heaven forbid the public observe how their tax dollars are spent and their wildlife managed. Transparency isn’t harassment—it’s accountability. And one of our members recently was forced to file a lawsuit against CDFW because it refused to release public records relating to the shooting of a bear in South Lake Tahoe. CDFW still has not released those records. Bonham calls on the public to “respect CDFW’s work.” Respect is
earned, and CDFW must work harder to earn that respect. Killing its way out of this issue will never earn CDFW that respect.
We don’t want bears killed. But we also don’t want to watch bear families grow increasingly desperate while officials respond with bureaucratic language about “collaboration” and blame residents for caring about the outcomes.
The Butler Avenue incident wasn’t caused by an “agitated crowd”—it was caused by a system that waits for crisis instead of preventing it. Until CDFW acknowledges that reality instead of hiding behind propaganda about “interference,” we’ll continue to see the same tragic cycles play out in neighborhoods throughout the basin.
Real collaboration starts with honest language, true transparency and genuine community engagement, not sanitized press releases that paint concerned residents as obstacles to what is, in reality, CDFW’s ineffective wildlife management.
Injuries, surgeries and some medical conditions result in wounds. Most of the time, these wounds heal on their own or in an anticipated timeline. But sometimes, wounds don’t heal the way they should. When that happens, it’s important to get special help. That’s where advanced wound care comes in.
Why Is Wound Care Important?
Taking care of your wound is taking care of your overall health. If a wound doesn’t heal properly, it can lead to pain, infection, and other serious problems. In some cases, untreated wounds can even cause long-term health issues.
Some people are more likely to have wounds that don’t heal well. This includes people with diabetes, poor circulation, nicotine use or those recovering from surgery or radiation treatments.
You May Need Advanced Wound Care If You Have:
· A wound that takes a long time to heal
· A foot or leg ulcer
· A surgical wound that hasn’t healed as expected
· A skin graft or surgical flap that isn’t healing
· Pain, bleeding, or other symptoms near a radiation site
· A bone infection
· A crush injury
These types of wounds need special care to heal properly. Wound care specialists can clean wounds, remove damaged tissue, and use special treatments to help the healing process. The goal is to reduce pain, prevent infection, and improve your quality of life.
Don’t Wait — Get the Care You Need
If you or a loved one has a wound that isn’t healing, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances of healing.
Dr. Paul Ryan is an orthopedic surgeon and wound care specialist at Barton Health. Call Barton Wound Center at 530.543.5479 to make an appointment or visit BartonHealth.org for more information.
Welcome to Ask Talie Jane! I’m Talie, an interior designer who’s excited to pull back the curtain on all things design—and yes, construction too (they’re a power couple, not distant cousins). Whether you’re gearing up for a remodel or just obsessively pinning kitchen inspo, this column is for you.
Today’s burning question: When should I hire an interior designer? Short answer? The earlier, the better.
Interior designers do more than pick paint colors and pretty pillows. We’re deeply involved in space planning, lighting design, materials selection, and overall flow, the essential groundwork that turns a house into a home. Bringing a designer in at the start of your project, whether it’s a new build, renovation, or big refresh, can save time, money, and a whole lot of stress. Not to mention help prevent costly mistakes and ensure a space is both functional AND beautiful.
Great design is more than aesthetics – it’s about creating a process that feels as good as the end result looks. That means clear communication, thoughtful collaboration, and keeping your goals front and center.
Some of the most successful (and enjoyable) projects happen when designers work hand-in-hand with the client, architect, engineer, and contractor from day one. Designers are collaborators. We review drawings, prioritize lifestyle and function, confirm material selections, address technical questions and keep an eye on the schedule and the budget. We also act as the bridge between your vision and the build team, ensuring that every detail – from cabinet heights to tile patterns – is spot on.
Think of us as design interpreters: fluent in construction, fluent in style.
Already knee-deep in a remodel? Don’t worry, it’s never too late to bring in a designer. We’re used to jumping in midstream and steering things back in the right direction.
Have a design or construction question? Send it to Natalie@TalieJaneInteriors.com and you might see it answered right here in the next column!
Talie Jane is the Owner and Principal Designer of Talie Jane Interiors, an award-winning, full-service design firm serving the Lake Tahoe and Napa/Sonoma regions. She’s also the co-owner of Talie Jane Construction, a design-driven general contracting firm specializing in luxury remodels.
LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – The Tahoe Interagency Bear Team (TIBT) announces the return of Tahoe Bear Fest on Saturday, Sep. 20, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Spooner Lake State Park. This free, family-friendly event celebrates Lake Tahoe’s iconic black bears while highlighting the important role local agencies and communities play in keeping bears wild and people safe.
Visitors will enjoy a day filled with interactive booths, educational presentations, guided hikes, and activities for all ages. Food and drinks will be available, with Nevada State Parks Foundation serving hot dogs and hamburgers for a small donation while supplies last.
Throughout the day, attendees can:
• Explore booths and hands-on exhibits from local organizations and agencies.
• Attend presentations every 30 minutes at the amphitheater from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., featuring Bear Biology with California State Parks, Karelian Bear Dogs with Nevada Department of Wildlife, Bear CSI with California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Bear Storytime with the Zephyr Cove Library.
• Join the Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space Park Rangers for two guided “Bear Walk” hikes at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., covering black bear biology, behavior, and habitat.
Parking is limited at Spooner Lake State Park; carpooling is strongly encouraged. Guests may arrive anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; there is no need to attend from the very beginning. The event is free and park entrance fees will be waived for the duration of the event.
Participating organizations include: Bear-ier Solutions, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, California State Parks, Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space, Derek Stevenson Wildlife Art, Girl Scouts of the Sierra Nevada, Mountain Lion Arts, Nevada Department of Wildlife, Nevada State Parks, Nevada State Parks Foundation, South Tahoe Refuse, Sustainable Tahoe, Tahoe Rim Trail Association, USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, Waste Management, and Zephyr Cove Library.
With school back in session, afternoon snacks at home are common. This also means your dog’s nose will be in overdrive with the tempting scents of potato chips, pretzels, cookies, trail mix and other popular snack foods. This is because your dog’s nose is their primary way of experiencing and interacting with their world.
The packaging your dog or pet’s food and treats come in also poses a potential risk. Even single-serving snack bags can be dangerous for smaller dogs that can fit their head inside the package. According to a 2021-2023 Prevent Pet Suffocation survey, chip bags posed the greatest threat at 47%, followed by the pet’s own food bag.
Where are the Risks?
The risk of your pet suffocating comes from common food packaging already in your home, including kitchen cupboards, bedrooms, dining rooms, trash in the kitchen and garage, yards and vehicles, as well as on coffee tables and counters, and in purses and backpacks.
Risky packaging includes the following and more:
~ Dog Food Bags/Liners ~ Chip, Pretzel, other Snack Bags
~ Dog Treat Bags/Liners ~ Cereal/Cookie Bags
~ Wide-mouth Water Bottles ~ Used plastic freezer food bags
~ Empty Tin Cans ~ Single Serving Snack Bags
~ USPS Mailers: Tear/Water-Resistant Polyethylene, Bubble, etc.
How Does it Happen?
Snacks are packaged in a strong, mylar-like material (think of a balloon) to keep them fresher.
But when your dog (or pet) is driven by its curious nose to stick its head inside the empty snack bag for leftover crumbs, a vacuum-like seal around the neck can be created as the dog breathes and it can become impossible for them to remove the bag from around their head.
Sadly, an unwanted and tragic outcome can occur in mere minutes. 50% of pet suffocation occurred with owners at home.
Prevention is Key: 6 Safety Tips
1. Keep all plastic bags, dog food/treat bags and snack bags high out of your dog’s reach or behind a child-proofed cabinet.
2. Immediately put chips/snacks/pet food in resealable, rigid plastic containers.
3. Remove all chip/snack/food/fast food bags and drink cups from your vehicle.
4. Keep all trash can lids tightly sealed, locked or behind a child-proofed cabinet.
5. Put lids back on jars/containers and properly dispose.
6. Cut/destroy all chip, snack, food and mailing packages after use to prevent pet suffocation. Even local wildlife can be at risk.
Even the most well-trained dog can be instinctually driven by its curious nose when it comes to tempting scents and find themselves in serious trouble.
Pet suffocation is preventable with awareness!
Educate yourself, your family and friends to keep our beloved animal companions safe and protected!
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – On Friday, September 12, 2025, the SLTPD was notified by a manager at US Bank of an attempted fraud with the suspect posing as an agent from the US Marshals Office. The suspect directed the victim to withdraw the entirety of their money from the bank account in cash. A courier would then pick up that money to support the US Marshals Service.
The scammer advised the money provided to them would be paid back via a reimbursement check. The scammer had personal information about the victim. The caller ID used by the suspect showed the main phone number of the South Lake Tahoe Police Department [(530) 542-6110].
The SLTPD wants to remind the public that we, nor any legitimate government agency, will never call and request cash to support our operations. Additionally, any request for money for a non-profit tied to an agency should be vetted before choosing to donate.
Personal identifying information about most people is available on the internet. Just because a caller can tell you personal details does not make their call legitimate. Common victims of these scams are the elderly and those that are not familiar with technology.
Using different internet applications, phone numbers can be manipulated in caller ID to replicate legitimate agencies and businesses. If a request sounds far-fetched for the type of agency or business the caller claims, be cautious in your interaction with them.
STATELINE, Nev. – The Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority distributed an additional $85,000 to 25 area non-profit organizations resulting from the 36th annual American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament in July, raising the 2025 local donations total to $115,000.
As the tournament’s destination sponsor, the LTVA helps organize the South Shore’s most impactful special event, coordinating with partners NBC Sports and American Century Investments, to ensure a successful and memorable experience for fans, locals, celebrities and media.
Grants were distributed to: Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe, Bread & Broth, Carson Tahoe Health, Christmas Cheer All Year, Clean Tahoe Program, Clean Up The Cayes, Douglas County Parkinson’s Support Group, Encompass Youth, Expand-Able Horizons, Family Support Council of Douglas County, Friends of the El Dorado County Library, Lake Tahoe Historical Society, South Lake Tahoe Family Resource Center, Special Olympics of Northern California, Suicide Prevention Network, Tahoe Alliance for Safe Kids, Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association, Tahoe Backcountry Alliance, Tahoe Climbing Coalition, Tahoe Composts, Tahoe Prosperity Center, Tahoe Rim Trail Association, Tahoe Youth & Family Services, The Smaine Fund and Valhalla Tahoe.
“Being able to assist many of our community organizations with their variety of efforts to benefit others is a highlight of the event,” said Carol Chaplin, president and CEO of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority. “The ongoing association with American Century Investments, NBC Sports, Edgewood Tahoe, Harrah’s/Caesars Republic, and our lodging and casino properties makes it possible to positively impact our town in a meaningful way.”
“Our partnership and appreciation with the South Lake Tahoe community through the past 27 years has only grown stronger,” said Jonathan Thomas, chairman, CEO and president of American Century Investments. “We’re proud of our involvement and are delighted to support local Tahoe charities every year.” The contributions also complement the unique ownership model at American Century Investments that directs more than 40 percent of company profits to medical research annually.
Other contributions during the event included an annual commitment from NBC and American Century Investments of $10,000 to support the South Tahoe Recreation & Aquatic Center. It was initiated last year in honor of long-time participant Tim Wakefield and his wife, Stacy, who both passed from cancer within five months in late 2023 and early 2024. (For information re: contributions: www.SouthTahoeParksFoundation.org.)
NBC also continued its Gene Upshaw Memorial Scholarship with the Lake Tahoe Community College awarding $10,000 to student Yuliana Rosales towards tuition at UC Davis. Yuli is the first person in her family to have graduated from high school and to attend college.
The tournament also provided $10,000 to the South Lake Tahoe Football Boosters for their ecological efforts during the tournament, raising 2025 local donations to $115,000.
To be considered, local organizations were required to meet 501(c)3 certified nonprofit status, provide an outline of their mission, and describe how the donation would be used and indicate its impact in the community.
Under a separate arrangement with the tournament’s concessionaire, several service clubs and organizations also received funds for staffing food and beverage booths during the five days of the event.
Since 2009, donations exceeding $2.3 million have been distributed to more than 90 Tahoe area non-profits to assist 12,000+ individuals.
The American Century Championship is conducted annually at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Stateline, Nev. The area’s largest annual special event featured 92 sports and entertainment celebrities in a 54-hole competition aired on NBC Sports, Golf Channel and Peacock. American Century Investments, the event’s title sponsor since 1999, continues its role in partnership with NBC Sports,theLake Tahoe Visitors Authority, Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course and the South Tahoe community. Since its inception in 1990, the American Century Championship has donated more than $8.5 million to local and national non-profits. For tournament information and updates:AmericanCenturyChampionship.
STATELINE, Nev. — Tahoe Beach Club was awarded the prestigious Tahoe Blue Beach Certification through the League to Save Lake Tahoe, becoming the first private club to receive this important recognition. The certification reflects Tahoe Beach Club’s commitment to sustainable beach management practices that protect and preserve the clarity of Lake Tahoe.
The Tahoe Blue Beach program, led by the League to Save Lake Tahoe, is a collaborative initiative with land managers such as the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (USFS) and California State Parks, as well as beach concessionaires and businesses. Together, they work to “raise the bar for beach management in Tahoe” and ensure Lake Tahoe is protected from the growing impacts of recreation.
At the heart of the Tahoe Blue Beach program is the Three E’s framework: Education, Engineering, and Enforcement.
Education: Proactive outreach and engaging signage help beachgoers understand how to recreate responsibly before stepping on the sand. Engineering: Investment in critical infrastructure such as trash receptacles, restrooms, bike racks, refill stations, and well-designed access points prevent erosion and reduce environmental impact. Enforcement: Consistent enforcement of rules and regulations ensures that public lands and beaches remain protected for future generations.
By adopting these best practices, Tahoe Beach Club has demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to stewardship, ensuring its facilities and members contribute to the long-term protection of Lake Tahoe.
“We are honored to be recognized as the first private club to achieve Blue Beach Certification,” said Kevin Speer, Tahoe Beach Club’s general manager. “The Blue Beach certification underscores our commitment to sustainability, and we are proud to stand alongside the League to Save Lake Tahoe and our Tahoe Blue Beach partners in protecting the Lake we all love.”
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – On Tuesday, the South Lake Tahoe city council met with a particularly long agenda to make decisions on the cannabis tax rate, emergency shelter and warm room and the Mid-Town area plan, among other items, some of which were delayed from previous meetings.
Proclamations
The Daughters of the American Revolution and Access Tahoe both received proclamations for September, one for a week and one for a month.
September 17-23 was recognized as Constitution Week, which was accepted by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Jennifer Bechdel, regent for the local chapter, received the proclamation, which asked citizens to “reaffirm the ideals the Framers of the Constitution had… by vigilantly protecting the freedoms guaranteed to us through this guardian of our liberties.”
“Next year is 250 years for our country becoming what it is, so get ready for a really exciting year,” said Bechdel.
Angie Reagan and Rev. Nathan Wheeler received the proclamation recognizing September as Suicide Prevention and Recovery Month. The proclamation noted that the CDC recognizes that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.
Wheeler said, “We know just using the word ‘suicide’ can save a life. I’m grateful to live in a city that wants to create a world where no one loses hope, and no one is alone.”
Reagan criticized the city, El Dorado County and Barton Health for not seeing improvement in addressing suicide and substance abuse. In 2024, there were 28 suicides and 28 overdoses according to the El Dorado County Sheriff’s office. In Barton’s 2024 report, 22.4% of the community rated their mental health as fair or poor and 82% of people said mental health was a major problem in the community.
“These aren’t just numbers, they are our neighbors… they are people who should still be here. People we grieve, people whose presence and gifts made the world better,” said Reagan, who said she has struggled with suicide and now volunteers for suicide prevention groups. “Please care, act, do something… despair may grow in silence, but hope grows in community.”
City manager employment agreement
City manager Joe Irvin’s contract was set to expire on April 14 next year, and Irvin indicated his interest in extending his contract. In a previous closed session, the council considered the amendments to his contract, which would extend his term for six years, remove outdated provisions and modify the performance evaluations to once a year rather than every six months.
Councilmember David Jinkens and Mayor Pro Tem Cody Bass both commended Irvin’s work in changing the culture of the city, his leadership and commitment to the city. Councilmember Scott Robbins said that the six-year contract, which extends beyond the political cycle, would provide more stability in the city.
Mayor Tamara Wallace, who was on the council that elected Irvin, said, “I couldn’t be happier with our choice. It has proven out every single time.” The motion to extend his employment agreement passed unanimously.
Cannabis tax rate discussion
Back in 2022, Measure G passed and replaced the community benefit fee with the cannabis business and professions tax. The current rate is 6% of gross receipts on retail, distribution and manufacturing, and the city collects about $9000,000 annually in revenue from four licensed businesses. They also fund a public safety mitigation fee and public safety license fee, which pays for one dedicated officer who oversees cannabis regulatory compliance.
The state of California imposed an excise tax that increased cannabis retail sales tax from 15% to 19% on July 1. While Assembly Bill 564 would have prevented the increase from going into effect, the bill is still pending in Senate.
However, cannabis businesses in town have said that the tax is increasing on the state side. In a letter written to council from Cannablue owner Alex Gosselin and CEO Jess Carlson, they noted that cannabis consumers would be paying 51.88% more in taxes than they did in 2020.
Gosselin and Carlson asked to lower the local cannabis tax from 6% to 1% to remove the burden from residents to shoulder the increased prices. City staff indicated that reducing to a 1% rate would lead to an estimated $750,000 revenue loss for the city.
During public comment, Carlson and other attendees supported reducing the tax. They cited the medical benefits of cannabis, especially for disabled people and veterans, fairness for business owners in town and the competitive nature of the business as compared to Nevada or Meyers. Several also highlighted the safety aspect of buying from a dispensary rather than from non-licensed sources.
Mayor Pro Tem Bass recused himself from this item and spoke during public comment in support of lowering the tax.
Councilmember Keith Roberts said that he was sympathetic to the challenges, but was on the fence. “Are we opening up Pandora’s Box? Where does it stop? What other businesses will ask us to reduce things so they can sell their product cheaper, just because their customers enjoy it?” Roberts also said that nonprofits on town benefit from the cannabis revenue grant.
Councilmember Scott Robbins urged the council to continue improving their lobbying efforts, as the state excise tax is far higher than the city’s tax. He also raised a question regarding the public safety outcomes and the cannabis grant’s premise, which were to mitigate public safety and negative impacts of the industry. “We ourselves have failed utterly to identify negative impacts—we can’t see them in the data, we don’t see them in crime,” said Robbins.
Roberts said that he was interested in removing the mitigation fee and was interested lowering the tax to 3% and 0% for medical users.
Wallace said she was also in favor of reducing the tax, but that if it went below 3%, that the city should not continue the cannabis grant program. After some discussion, Irvin said that he wanted to focus the conversation on the tax rate rather than the grant program, as they would consider that in future budget items.
Robbins made a motion to direct staff to establish a new tax rate of 3%, seek out a 0% tax rate for medical cannabis, eliminate the public safety mitigation fee and lobby for changes at the state and federal level. The motion passed unanimously.
Grant applications for Complete Streets
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) opened up their regional grant application for projects, and staff requested council for authorization on two projects: the Stateline Complete Streets project and Johnson Boulevard Complete Streets program, which they would request $2.7 million and $2.4 million for respectively.
The Bicycle Advisory Committee requested the city council to direct staff not to apply for this grant, as they are interested in getting funding for the South Tahoe Greenway and Upper Truckee Bridge, which would connect Barton Hospital to the Dennis Machida Greenway. However, associate transportation planner Emily Dougherty said that staff felt that the regional grant was key in completing funding for the Complete Streets projects.
Robbins moved to authorize staff to apply for the $2.7 million grant for Stateline, which has higher foot traffic than Johnson Boulevard, as well as supporting the Tahoe Transportation District’s letter of support. The motion passed unanimously, with Bass recused due to his membership on the TRPA.
Mid-Town Area Plan
In the 2023-2028 strategic plan, there was a priority item to increase Mid-Town revitalization support, which the city staff has collected data, stakeholder and public outreach on to create the Mid-Town area plan. Two primary goals were to implement policy and design standards supporting all housing types and to emphasize the area as an arts and culture center.
For housing, the plan proposes an increase of height up to 56 feet, though some of the community feedback indicated they wouldn’t want that height in each area. It also proposes expanding areas for multifamily dwelling use, advocating for a higher market rate density, implementing a minimum density and exploring a mixed income density approach while incorporating TRPA Phase 2 housing amendments. The plan will lastly include directions to explore public parking visibility and accessibility and identify new locations for parking.
For arts and culture, the plan is looking into expanding light industrial uses of an artistic nature, including printing and publishing, small scale manufacturing, a small-scale kitchen and makerspace. It also proposes lighting exemptions for public art installations, exploring funding sources for public art, a commercial floor area exemption for outdoor dining and emphasizing the importance of third places.
The plan will also explore enhancements to recreation assets, access to public services and the creation of a walkable “locals’ downtown.” This could include a Trout Creek riverwalk and Palmira Avenue bike boulevard.
Wallace said that she believes that the city should consider pushing its agenda on housing, especially regarding increased density, which has sparked conversations between the TRPA and the city.
Robbins expressed concern about there being increased density in the plan without provisions that the increased density wouldn’t go to luxury condos or Airbnbs.
Robbins voted against the resolution, but with two votes from Roberts and Wallace, it passed, Bass was recused from the item and Jinkens had to leave the meeting.
Emergency shelter/warm room and Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless
Since 2023, unsheltered homelessness has decreased by 69%, but there has been an increase in hotline calls for families experiencing homelessness, and Barton Health and the police department have both expressed a need for sheltering unhoused individuals that they interact with.
Several council members have expressed an interest in a shelter or warm room, which would vary significantly in cost. A warm room would cost $150,000 to $200,000 annually and run from November to April, with volunteers and paid staff for 25 beds. An emergency shelter would run with paid staff and have 15-60 beds, but would require a program manager and operations, putting the cost at $200,000 to $2 million annually, which is how much it costs for the El Dorado County navigation center.
The council was in unanimous agreement in support of shelter services, and suggested they might also need other programs to address unsheltered people such as a motel voucher program. That became part of the motion directing staff to pursue establishing a motel voucher program in partnership with local and regional stakeholders, which passed unanimously.
The Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless (TCH), which provides many services to unhoused people in the city, had a proposed Pay for Success agreement with an amount not to exceed $40,000. TCH used to run the warm room through private donations and volunteers, and now has 14 beds at the Red Lodge which will be converted into medical respite units.
Erick Asbury was the sole public comment saying that he felt that this was the wrong place to spend money on.
Council, however, felt that the item was particularly important and voiced their support for the TCH, the progress towards a shelter and the work that the TCH does. The motion passed unanimously.
League of California Cities conference
Jinkens is the city council representative for the League of California Cities and said he would represent as the voting delegate before he left the city council meeting. Despite public comment from Asbury asking for Robbins to not be selected as the alternate, Robbins volunteered himself and was approved unanimously in a motion.
Councilmember reports and comments
Roberts asked if council would be interested in opposing Proposition 50, also called the Election Rigging Response Act. Wallace said that she would be interested in getting further information on it before making an official comment.
The next city council meeting will take place on September 23.
Robert P. Wolf, born July 26, 1940, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on August 30, 2025, at the age of 85 in his home in South Lake Tahoe. Bob lived in Tahoe for more than 65 years. He was one of three children born to George and Mary Wolf, with a brother, Father George Wolf (deceased), and a sister, Mary Wolf, who resides in Sacramento, CA.
Bob joined the seminary in San Rafael, where he spent four years at St. Peter Chaneland then moved to Mount Angel Seminary in Oregon for two years. He moved back home to Tahoe in 1960 and began working for George Schaffer before joining the Electrical Workers Union IBEW 401 as an apprentice electrician. He worked for close to 50 years as an electrician in South Lake Tahoe and retired in 2005. As an electrician, he worked on many buildings and houses in the area, including Barton Hospital, Harrah’s,and Heavenly Valley. Beyond his professional work, Bob also applied his skills to a project of personal significance: building the house where he and his wife, Becky, raised their family and where Becky still lives today.
During his time in Reno as an apprentice, he met Rebecca Wainscoat. They were married in 1963 and celebrated 62 years together this past April.
Bob is survived in death by his wife, Rebecca, and their children: John and his wife Erin, Dan and his wife Daisy, Jennifer, and Paul and his wife Jennifer. He was preceded in death by his daughter Annie. Once retired, he and Becky spent time RVing, enjoying their children and many grandchildren, Rebecca, Ryan, Jacob, Sarah, Denise, Raymond, and Michael, as well as great-grandchildren Anthony and Nathaniel.
Bob loved having his family around and was always sharing stories and anecdotes with his great sense of humor. Being a good Irish man, he had the gift of the gab, he never met a stranger; if you met Bob, you were family to him. Bob was very active at St.Theresa as a lector and was always there whenever Father Grace needed anything. During his younger years, he was a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission and an enthusiastic South Tahoe High School Booster. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.
Please join his family in a celebration of his life on October 4, 2025, at St Theresa Catholic Church, 1041 Lyons Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 1:00 pm. A short reception will follow the service at Grace Hall, located next door to the church. In lieu of flowers, please honor Bob by paying his joyous and friendly personality forward to everyone you meet and remember to always have a story to tell.
Ted Kasparian passed away Saturday morning, August 23rd. He was only 54 years old. Ted fought a long hard battle with cancer. I never once heard him complain. He first came to Tahoe as an 8 year old and immediately decided this was where he would live when he grew up. He never lived any place else. He worked for himself and prided himself on doing a good job. Ted loved Tahoe.
Update as of Friday, Sept. 12: On September 11, 2025, law enforcement agencies executed numerous search and arrest warrants in El Dorado County, California; Alpine County, California; Douglas County, Nevada; and Washoe County, Nevada as part of Operation Daisy Cutter. This investigation is a multi-agency, multi-year effort targeting cartel-supplied gangs in the Tahoe bi-state region. Its mission is to disrupt gang activity, reduce violent crime, and hold cartel-linked leaders, members, and associates accountable. The takedown is also part of a nationwide FBI initiative against cartel-backed criminal enterprises.
The prosecutions are being led by the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, which obtained 20 of the warrants.
The operations saw search warrants served on seven locations in South Lake Tahoe, with six additional locations in neighboring jurisdictions. At the time of this press release, the operation netted 10 arrests in California and five in Nevada.
Subjects arrested in this operation are as follows:
Jaxon Babson: 24 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Dakota Bertram: 29 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Carlos Estrada: 26 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Ernesto Estrada: 24 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Robert Brown: 29 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Amber Walker: 28 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Kaela Horse-Berreman: 36 years old, of Markleeville, CA
Roberto Guzman: 61 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Guadalupe Neri: 28 years old, of Reno, NV
Noah Paul: 26 years old, of Gardnerville, NV
Toby Paul: 20 years old, of Gardnerville, NV
Josue Jacquez: 26 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Levi Hayes: 24 years old, of Reno, NV
Joshua Van Roy: 38 years old, of So Lake Tahoe
Kayli Koffer: 24 years old, of Reno, NV
The defendants in this case are presumed innocent until proven guilty. They face a variety of charges, including possession of cocaine for sale, possession of fentanyl for sale, possession of ketamine for sale, illegal sale of firearms, and probation violation (not all charges applicable to all defendants).
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — The South Lake Tahoe Police Department, working with multiple agencies, executed several search and arrest warrants Wednesday morning in South Lake Tahoe and other towns in California and Nevada, city officials announced on social media.
Law enforcement agencies executed 21 arrest warrants in El Dorado County, California; Alpine County, California; Douglas County, Nevada; and Washoe County, Nevada, as part of Operation Daisy Cutter. This investigation is a multi-agency, multi-year effort targeting cartel-supplied gangs in the Tahoe bi-state region. Its mission is to disrupt gang activity, reduce violent crime, and hold cartel-linked leaders, members, and associates accountable. The takedown is also part of a nationwide FBI initiative against cartel-backed criminal enterprises.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office served one of the warrants at approximately 5:30 a.m. in the 800 block of Maplewood Dr., in Minden, Nevada. Brothers Noah and Toby Paul were arrested on fugitive arrest warrants out of El Dorado County. Both brothers will remain in custody until they are extradited to California.
The prosecutions are being led by the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, which obtained 20 of the warrants. Partner agencies include the District Attorneys’ Offices of Alpine County, Douglas County, Carson City, and Washoe County, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California. Together, these offices are coordinating a unified response to dismantle violent, predatory organizations that endanger community safety.
The defendants in this case, who are presumed innocent until proven guilty, include Norteño gang leaders and associates accused of trafficking cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl while attempting to recruit middle and high school students. Some reportedly exploited male recruits to gain access to underage girls.
Others include individuals deported in March 2025 who now face felony warrants if they return, members of outlaw motorcycle gangs such as the Devil’s Disciples and the Pissed Off Bastards of Bloomington (POBOB) who deserted military service after falsely claiming Army Infantry experience, and gang members connected to fatal overdoses.
“These actions are not related to immigration enforcement,” the City of South Lake Tahoe said on instagram.
Officials also asked the public to keep a safe distance if they see police activity in their area.
When most people think of fall, they imagine dreary weather. Guess what? In Lake Tahoe, that just isn’t true! There’s a reason why our residents call this the “Local’s Summer”. Crowds dwindle, the sun is still shining, and during the day, it warms up. It’s the ideal time to escape from the doldrums of daily life. Let’s get inspired for a fall getaway to Lake Tahoe!
See the Fall Foliage
Bourne’s Meadow at Lake Tahoe
We can’t talk about this time of year without mentioning the fall colors. Oh… the marvelous color! Mother nature really brings out her full box of crayons when she paints the scenery in Lake Tahoe. One of our personal favorites to enjoy the fall foliage is Fallen Leaf Lake. Sitting nearly 152’ above “Big Blue’s” shoreline, Fallen Leaf Lake gives you a great vantage point of the most recognizable peak in the basin, Mt. Tallac. And the added bonus is the perfect view to experience the season’s colors in Frederick’s Meadow. An easy relaxing hike, the meadow itself is surrounded by aspen stands and conifers, allowing you to get a little outside exercise AND enjoy the scenery.
Directions: From South Lake Tahoe, take Hwy 89 north. Just past Camp Richardson, turn left onto Fallen Leaf Lake Road (FS road 1212). Drive past the campground, and you will see a small trailhead. The trail wanders through the meadow and then reaches the lake. There are additional pull-out spots along the road up to where there’s a gated road on the left.
If you need a few more ideas on where to see amazing fall color, check out our Lake Tahoe Fall Colors article.
For those who haven’t noticed, South Lake Tahoe has exploded on the craft brew scene to rival ANY mountain town for its barley pops. After a day of adventure, be sure to carve out some time for a taste of local flavor via the Lake Tahoe Beer Trail. With over nine breweries, you’ll find the one that best fits your style.
Not into beer? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. With easy access to award-winning Northern California wines, you can explore the great outdoors and taste some marvelous wines. That’s right! You can have your cake AND eat it too in Lake Tahoe. For those wanting a one-of-a-kind adventure, look no further than Tahoe Tastings. Hop aboard a 1953 Chris Craft Venetian Water Taxi departing from the Tahoe Keys Marina and circle the beautiful Emerald Bay. On the tour, you’ll enjoy eight wines from various Northern California regions.
The Planning Services Division delivered a presentation to the board to discuss the draft Vision Statement and Guiding Principles on Aug. 5. The board directed staff to update the document with further detail and clarity around housing opportunities, conservation planning, mountain resort communities, and maintaining agriculture lands.
The vision statement envisions Placer County in 2050 as a region that cherishes its natural beauty, fosters vibrant and inclusive communities, and promotes sustainable growth. It emphasizes the importance of preserving open spaces, ensuring access to achievable housing, and maintaining the unique character of its rural, suburban, and mountain resort areas.
The guiding principles focus on balanced growth, environmental sustainability, community well-being, and transparent governance. They serve as a compass for county leaders and staff to align future initiatives with the community’s values and priorities.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review the document and participate in upcoming phases of the General Plan update.
The document is expected to go before the Board of Supervisors for approval Oct. 7 and will include time for public comment. Learn more about Placer 2050 at placer2050.com.
~ Placer County press release
Return of Market Match Program
NEVADA COUNTY
The Nevada County Department of Social Services announced the return of the Market Match Program, beginning Sept. 6, with expanded offerings and a renewed commitment to food access for CalFresh customers.
CALFRESH MARKET MATCH program in Nevada County provides customers with fresh provisions. Photo courtesy Nevada County Health and Human Services Agency
Market Match helps CalFresh shoppers stretch their food dollars at farmers markets. This year’s program will continue to be administered by Sierra Harvest, and due to the delayed start, the Market Match Program will operate through Feb. 28, or until allocated funds are depleted.
Participating Market Match locations and programs:
Nevada City Summer Farmers Market matches up to $10 in electronic benefit transfer (EBT) funds per market.
Mountain Bounty Farm – Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Vegetable or Fruit Share — offers a 50% discount on monthly CSA subscription (regular or small box). Enroll by contacting info@mountainbountyfarm.com or (530) 292-3776.
Tahoe Truckee Food Hub – CSA Harvest Box — offers a 50% match on individual harvest box purchases. Visit tahoefoodhub.org or call (530) 562-7150 to enroll.
For more information about the Market Match Program, eligibility, or participating vendors, contact the Nevada County Department of Social Services.
~ Nevada County Health and Human Services Agency press release
Truckee Young Entrepreneurs Club Kicks Off
TRUCKEE
The Truckee Chamber of Commerce, Sierra Business Council, and Lift Workspace announced the launch of the Truckee Young Entrepreneurs Club (formally named Truckee Tahoe Future Founders), a new initiative designed to support and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in our region. The club is open to aspiring entrepreneurs aged 14 to 24 and will hold its first official meeting on Sept. 10, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Lift Workspace in Truckee.
The inaugural meeting will feature Jan Holan, Founder of Lift Workspace: Cowork, Conference and Wellness Center, who will present on his entrepreneurship journey, offering valuable insights and inspiration to club members.
The club is led by Truckee High School student Saim Mian, who saw a gap in business education and wanted to create a space where young people could learn real entrepreneurial skills and build their ideas into action. His leadership and initiative have helped shape the vision of Truckee Young Entrepreneurs as a collaborative, hands-on experience where students drive the programming and take ownership of their futures.
Moving forward, Truckee Young Entrepreneurs will meet once a month on the second Wednesday of the month from 5 to 6:30 p.m.. The club plans to offer real-world business insight through local guest speakers, hands-on workshops, and mentorship opportunities. The goal is to build foundational entrepreneurial skills, spark creative thinking, and give young people the tools and confidence to turn their ideas into action.
For more information about the club, visit truckee.com or email jessica@truckee.com.
~ Truckee Chamber of Commerce press release
BIKING FILM FEST by Bike Tahoe accepts video submissions. Photo courtesy Bike Tahoe
Bike Tahoe Invites Amateur Filmmakers
LAKE TAHOE
Bike Tahoe, a local nonprofit bicycle advocate, announced the inaugural launch of the 2025 Bike Tahoe Film Fest for amateur filmmakers to celebrate the spirit of biking through video.
The festival invites riders, families, and outdoor enthusiasts to capture and share their Tahoe biking adventures in short videos.
Filmmakers can choose among five categories: Bike Park, Family Affair, Next Gen, Awe-Inspiring Beauty, and Extreme Adventure. Each video is 60 seconds or less, non-commercial, and must have original or copyright-free music.
Participants can learn about the film fest details and submit their video at biketahoe.org by completing the online entry form. Submissions are open until Oct. 15.
The 2025 Bike Tahoe Film Fest showcases selected films and their makers, celebrating the creativity, resilience, and beauty found in biking adventures across the Lake Tahoe region.
~ Bike Tahoe press release
Slow Food Lake Tahoe’s Salmon Buying Club
TRUCKEE
Slow Food Lake Tahoe (SFLT), in partnership with Yup’ik Girl Seafood, is bringing back its Wild Alaskan Salmon Buying Club.
The club gives Truckee/Tahoe locals the opportunity to purchase sustainably caught Alaskan sockeye salmon at a significant discount. In return, nonprofit SFLT will receive a portion of the proceeds to help support community programs including Food Bank Garden, providing free adult and youth education, and organic produce donations to Sierra Community House.
Order a 20-pound case of filets for your own freezer, or share with a friend. Ordering closes on Sept. 21. Boxes will be available for pick-up in Truckee on Sept. 28. Learn more at slowfoodlaketahoe.org/salmon-buying-club.
~ Slow Food Lake Tahoe press release
Moving In, Moving On, Moving Up
TCPUD General Manager Honored with Statewide General Manager of the Year Award
TAHOE CITY
SEAN BARCLAY receives 2025 General Manager of the Year by the California Special Districts Association. Photo courtesy Tahoe City Public Utility District
The Tahoe City Public Utility District (TCPUD) announced that General Manager Sean Barclay has been honored as the 2025 General Manager of the Year by the California Special Districts Association (CSDA).
This statewide award recognizes exceptional leadership, effectiveness, and service to the community, and Barclay’s selection reflects his outstanding contributions both to TCPUD and to the broader region.
Barclay has served TCPUD for 16 years, beginning his career in 2009 as a part-time engineering technician before advancing through multiple roles to become general manager in 2017.
Under Barclay’s direction, TCPUD has undertaken ambitious infrastructure projects and strategic planning efforts that ensure safe, reliable service for decades to come. These include the acquisition and consolidation of multiple aging water systems, the launch of two major water system replacements, and the development of TCPUD’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and Long-Term Financial Plan.
Regionally, Barclay is recognized as a collaborative leader well-versed in shared issues that impact all agencies in the region. His peers consistently cite his ability to strengthen relationships, share resources, and align regional priorities.
Barclay’s leadership has also earned TCPUD statewide recognition, including the 2024 California Water Environment Association Small Operator of the Year, the 2023 CSDA Exceptional Outreach & Advocacy Award, the Best Place to Work in North Tahoe award, and eight consecutive GFOA Certificates of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
~ Tahoe City Public Utility District press release
Thirty-Passenger Max Public Charter Allowed to Operate Out of Truckee
TRUCKEE
At the Truckee Tahoe Airport District’s meeting on Aug. 27, the board discussed the possible impending addition of airport operations by JetSuiteX (JSX), a public charter operator.
According to the airport, JSX plans to operate an ATR 42-600 once a day, four days a week. Under its public charter designation (which airport GM Robb Etnyre noted is technically not commercial, though it operates on a limited-scheduled service), JSX is allowed a maximum of 30 passengers per flight.
The public charter cannot be restricted from flying in and out of Truckee/Tahoe, even without support from the board. If the charter operator meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, the airport has to provide space.
Tahoe Truckee Airport said JSX would likely plan routes from the Bay Area and the Los Angeles Basin. The closest comparison to JSX that the board used was Surf Air’s private chartered flights, which ended earlier this year.
Board President David Diamond said the directors have no choice in JSX’s operations, despite community concern over flight impacts such as noise and safety having existed for years.
The airport expects to have more information on an agreement with JSX in September.
~ MR, Tahoe Truckee Airport District Board meeting
Join First-Ever Livestream Journey to the Bottom of Lake Tahoe
TAHOE
On Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, the Tahoe Fund and Restoring the Lake Depths Foundation will livestream an ROV’s journey to the bottom of Lake Tahoe, giving everyone the opportunity to watch in real time as it reaches a depth of 1,570 feet.
Via a livestream that will be broadcast on the Tahoe Fund’s website, follow along as “Deep Emerald,” a custom ROV built by Restoring the Lake Depths, ventures to the bottom of Lake Tahoe. While the ROV descends, Tim Crandle, president of SeaView Systems, will share more about the cutting-edge technology that made this journey possible, and Sudeep Chandra, foundation professor of limnology at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe Institute for Global Sustainability, will unpack the secrets of why Tahoe’s famed waters are so clear.
Featuring open-source electronics from Blue Robotics and Mission Robotics software, Deep Emerald was designed for underwater exploration. It is equipped with an 8-thruster system for maneuverability, four LED lights and a 4K Ultra HD camera with low-light sensitivity for high-resolution imaging. In addition to deep water exploration, Deep Emerald has been utilized to remove litter from the lake and help identify aquatic invasive species.
Watch the livestream at tahoefund.org/deepdive starting at 9:30 a.m. PT on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025.
~ Tahoe Fund, Restoring the Lake Depths press release
Board Adopts Amendments to Tahoe Area Plan
INCLINE VILLAGE
The Washoe County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve code amendments to the Tahoe Area Plan, which was adopted in 2021 and serves as a master plan for the Incline Village area. In 2023, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) adopted Phase 2 Housing Amendments to support deed-restricted affordable, moderate, and achievable multi-family developments. The number of units that can be built is not changed; these amendments address the type of units that can be built to address the lack of affordable housing in the Tahoe Basin.
The code amendments approved on Aug. 26 are mandated by TRPA, and TRPA gave Washoe County additional time past its deadline — December 2024 — to finesse the amendments to address residents’ concerns, particularly parking and density. Senior Planner Kat Oakley told the commissioners that if Washoe County did not approve the amendments, TRPA has the latitude to adopt them without Washoe County’s refinements. Deputy District Attorney Michael Large further clarified that the way TRPA is structured, it has the jurisdiction to pass its own ordinances that are binding on Washoe County, and its housing amendments will go into effect regardless of the board’s decision.
~ Washoe County Board of County Commissioners newsletter
Office of Emergency Services set to release the 2025 Ready, Set, Go! Handbook
NEVADA COUNTY
Nevada County’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) is set to release the 2025 Ready, Set, Go! Handbook to help residents prepare for wildfires. This 32-page guide offers essential information on wildfire preparedness, including creating a fire-resistant home, knowing one’s evacuation zone, packing a go-bag, preparing for extended power outages, protecting pets and livestock, addressing air quality impacts, and assisting vulnerable family members.
Every Nevada County resident will receive a copy in the mail this September. Additional copies will be available at the Eric Rood Government Center in Nevada City, the Joseph Center in Truckee, all local fire districts, libraries, schools, and online at readynevadacounty.org/handbook.
The handbook was developed in partnership with Cal Fire, Truckee Fire Protection District, City of Nevada City and Grass Valley Fire Departments, Town of Truckee, City of Grass Valley, City of Nevada City, Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, 211 Connecting Point, United Way of Nevada County, FREED, Nevada County Public Health & Adult Services, Keep Truckee Green, and the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District.
With increased fire risk over Labor Day, ensure celebrations include being ready for wildfire:
Measure T Funding Leveraged to Increase Size, Scope of Projects
TRUCKEE
Truckee Fire Protection District is leveraging Measure T funds through partnership reimbursement agreements to increase the size and scope of wildfire prevention projects this summer.
Using locally controlled funds from Measure T allows Truckee Fire Protection District to increase the pace and scale of project implementation and accomplish more meaningful work within each field season. It also maximizes the impact of those dollars; TFPD’s investment of nearly $200,000 of Measure T funds has resulted in more than $560,000 of total funding for regional projects through partner reimbursement programs, nearly tripling the impact of local taxpayer dollars.
The agreements are an innovative way for TFPD to support more work through capacity provided by partner agencies.
TDPUD Launches Educational Campaign on Quality and Care of Truckee’s Water Supply
TRUCKEE
The Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) has launched a community-focused educational campaign to share the story behind every glass of water in Truckee. Drawing from the pristine Martis Valley Groundwater Basin, fed by snowmelt, and naturally filtered through ancient layers of sand, cobble, and granite, Truckee’s water arrives at customers’ taps refreshingly cold and with only minimal treatment. TDPUD’s recently launched “Truckee’s Water: Naturally Filtered. Responsibly Managed” campaign highlights the unique characteristics of the region’s water source and the infrastructure that delivers it to homes and businesses.
Unlike many communities that require extensive water treatment, Truckee’s water needs only minimal treatment, just a small amount of chlorine is added as a state requirement. The water originates from snowmelt runoff that naturally filters through mountain terrain before reaching the groundwater basin at depths of 600 to 950 feet.
The campaign also highlights the complex infrastructure required to deliver high-quality water across Truckee’s varied mountain terrain. TDPUD operates 13 wells, 26 pump stations, 35 tanks, and 238 miles of pipeline to navigate an elevation gain of 2,850 feet from the lowest well to the highest storage tank.
The campaign features newly released infographics that visually explain Truckee’s water journey from the Martis Valley basin to customers’ taps. The educational materials will be shared through social media, ads, community events, and TDPUD’s website at tdpud.org/your-water.
~ Truckee Donner Public Utility District press release
TAHOE LEADERS representing 17 land management, fire, and environmental agencies renewed the Lake Tahoe Basin Multi-Jurisdictional Fuel Reduction and Wildfire Prevention Strategy on Aug. 6. Photo courtesy Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team
Agencies Sign 10-Year Strategy to Protect Lake Tahoe Communities, Forests
LAKE TAHOE
Against the backdrop of the 2025 Tahoe Summit, federal, state, local, and tribal partners commemorated the renewal of the Lake Tahoe Basin Multi-Jurisdictional Fuel Reduction and Wildfire Prevention Strategy, a 10-year plan to protect communities and restore fire-resilient forests within the Lake Tahoe Basin.
A multi-agency coordinating group developed the first Multi-Jurisdictional Strategy following the Angora Fire in 2007, which burned 3,100 acres and destroyed more than 248 homes. Since 2007, subsequent strategy updates have guided more than 78,000 acres of forest treatments in and around communities and 85,000 defensible space evaluations to assist homeowners. This work helped protect neighborhoods during recent wildfires, including the 2021 Caldor Fire.
The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit led the strategy update with input and support from Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team partners. It lays out a shared framework for reducing hazardous fuels, strengthening community preparedness, and safeguarding Tahoe’s environment for the next decade.
With the signing of the strategy, the Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team and its partners enter a new chapter of coordinated action to reduce wildfire risk and protect Lake Tahoe’s communities, environment, and treasured natural resources.
~ Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team press release
Moving In, Moving On, Moving Up
Scott Bensing Joins Tahoe Fund Board of Directors
INCLINE VILLAGE
The nonprofit Tahoe Fund announced today that Scott Bensing, a U.S. Navy veteran with over 15 years of experience on Capitol Hill, has joined its board of directors. A high-ranking former Republican senior staff member, Bensing’s service has spanned the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate and included developing federal policy and navigating legislative and regulatory challenges. As a board member, he will support the Tahoe Fund’s mission of improving the Lake Tahoe environment for all to enjoy.
Bensing’s Capitol Hill experience began when he was a naval officer working as a congressional liaison officer to the U.S. Navy Secretary. As a civilian, he worked as chief of staff for the U.S. Senator John Ensign, and as executive director of the National Republican Senatorial Committee prior to starting SB Strategic Consulting in 2009. He was instrumental in developing the legislation that has brought billions in public funding to Tahoe.
Heavily involved in community efforts throughout his home state of Nevada, Bensing was appointed to serve on the board of the Tahoe Transportation District by Gov. Joe Lombardo. He is also a past chairman of the Nevada Military Support Alliance and currently serves on the board of PTSD NOW! and the Military Officers Association of America, Incline Village Chapter.
Bensing holds a B.S. degree in political science from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, and a Masters degree in public administration from The American University in Washington, D.C.
New Members Join TOT Advisory Committee to Expand Geographical Representation
NORTH LAKE TAHOE
Two new community members have joined the TOT Advisory Committee, which helps guide investments of Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenues generated by overnight visitors in North Lake Tahoe. Damarys Los, director of housekeeping at Martis Camp and a recent graduate of the Tahoe Truckee Leadership Program, will represent the Northstar/Martis Camp region. Meghan Lowry, sustainability coordinator at Sugar Bowl Resort, will represent Donner Summit.
The committee, comprising 15 voting seats and three non-voting advisory seats, was designed to reflect a wide range of expertise, experience, and geographic representation of residence or business ownership. Through the TOT-TBID Dollars at Work program, the TOT Advisory Committee recommends projects and programs that support community priorities related to economic health, community vitality, and environmental stewardship to the NTCA Board and Placer County Board of Supervisors for funding with TOT revenues.
Both Lowry and Los included personal statements in their applications for consideration on the committee. Lowry said she wanted to advocate for her community and the environment. Los said she’ll help represent the local Latino community and support the well-being of local workers.
Leadership Transition Announced for North Tahoe Truckee Leadership Program
NORTH LAKE TAHOE
The North Tahoe Truckee Leadership Program announced a significant transition in its leadership and operational structure. After years of dedicated service, Karen Willcuts has retired from her role as the program manager, and the Truckee Chamber of Commerce and the North Tahoe Chamber will be taking on an expanded leadership role in the program’s future.
This transition marks an exciting new chapter for the North Tahoe Truckee Leadership Program. For the upcoming year, participants can anticipate a program similar in structure and impact, but with the addition of new and engaging content designed to further enhance leadership skills and community engagement.
The program will continue its vital partnership with the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, ensuring a strong foundation for future initiatives and continued impact within the region.
The North Tahoe Truckee Leadership Program remains dedicated to fostering a new generation of leaders who will contribute to the vitality and success of the region. Applications and more information about the North Tahoe Truckee Leadership Program will be available in mid-September. If anyone is interested in the program they are encouraged to email admin@tahoetruckeeleadership.com.
~ North Tahoe Truckee Leadership Program press release
Business Briefs
NV Energy Accepting Applications for Low-Income Customers to Save Money
NEVADA
NV Energy is encouraging eligible low-income customers to apply for the company’s Expanded Solar Access Program (called ESAP) beginning Sept. 1. The program allows customers to tap into solar energy at no added cost, with no solar panels required.
Low-income eligible customers who participate in this program are guaranteed a lower rate for energy than the standard rate. To be eligible to participate low-income customers must show proof of income and may not have an income of more than 80% of the Area Median Income based on guidelines published by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. More information on qualifications is available at nvenergy.com/esap.
Applications for the program will be available online at nvenergy.com/esap on Sept. 1 and will be open until Oct. 31. Recent changes in the program now allow low-income customers participating in the program to continue participating in future years without having to provide proof of eligibility every year. Currently participating customers will be automatically re-enrolled for the next program year, eliminating the annual recertification burden.
Rep. Kiley Responds to Special Election to Gerrymander State
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Congressman Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature’s call for a special election to implement a new Congressional map for the state.
The governor’s plan would bypass the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission, a nonpartisan body created to safeguard fair representation and instead hand the authority directly to the Legislature. Critics warn the effort is designed to benefit the majority party while weakening the voices of rural and agricultural communities across Northern California.
“California voters are overwhelmingly opposed to Newsom’s plan to sideline our state’s Citizens Redistricting Commission,” Rep. Kiley said. “Yet the Supermajority Legislature chose to ignore this and will now spend $250 million trying to convince voters to reverse themselves and return power to politicians. The political leadership of California has never been more out of touch with the people of California.
“Newsom’s scheme is an unprecedented assault on democracy and good government in our state. But gerrymandering is a plague on democracy wherever it occurs. I’m calling on Speaker Mike Johnson to advance my bill to safeguard democracy in California and end the redistricting war nationwide.”
In response, the Nevada County Republican Party announced the launch of a revitalized Get Out The Vote (GOTV) committee to ensure Nevada County residents are fully informed and engaged throughout this process. The committee will provide voters with critical election information, including dates, polling locations, and resources to protect the integrity of every ballot.
“The people of Nevada County will not be silenced by Gavin Newsom’s power politics,” Chairman Mac Young said. “We will continue working to protect equal representation and uphold the constitutional safeguards that guarantee fair elections.”
~ Rep. Kiley, Nevada County Republican Party press release
Resident Tests Positive For Plague
EL DORADO COUNTY
El Dorado County health officials have been notified by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) that a South Lake Tahoe resident has tested positive for plague. The individual is currently under the care of a medical professional and is recovering at home. It’s believed that the person may have been bitten by an infected flea while camping in the South Lake Tahoe area. Health officials are investigating the situation.
Plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Plague bacteria are most often transmitted by the bites of fleas that have acquired the bacteria from infected squirrels, chipmunks, and other wild rodents. Dogs and cats may also bring plague-infected fleas into the home. People can get plague when they are bitten by infected fleas. Plague can be prevented by avoiding contact with wild rodents, and by keeping pets away from rodent burrows.
Symptoms of plague usually show up within 2 weeks of exposure to an infected animal or flea and include fever, nausea, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. Plague can be effectively treated with antibiotics if detected early.
CDPH routinely monitors rodent populations for plague activity in California and closely coordinates with county health officials. To date in 2025, four additional rodents have tested positive. All these rodents were identified in the Tahoe Basin.
A Projected $6.7 Million Loss to Tahoe Forest Via Medicaid Cuts
TRUCKEE/TAHOE
The local hospital district is estimated to see a near $7 million drop in revenue due to the national One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed on July 3.
The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan federal agency, estimates a $1.02 trillion cut over the next decade in federal spending on Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program as a result of OBBBA.
While it could be 2 years before any changes to hospitals might be felt, an analysis performed by the nonprofit and advocacy group Third Way projected out Medicaid losses for hospitals across the country. Tahoe Forest Health System, it claims, will lose $6,714,999 annually. The system’s FY 2025 budget anticipates $315 million in net patient revenue.
The hospital district did not respond to Moonshine’s request for comment.
Further, the CBO estimates a reduction in Medicare spending by $5.1 billion over 10 years, increasing the number of uninsured people by 100,000 come 2034 — if a law requiring cuts to federal programs in reaction to an increased federal deficit isn’t mitigated. The California Hospital Association estimates between a 14% and 30% reduction in Medi-Cal revenue over 10 years.
TFHS CEO Anna Roth shared at a recent Good Morning Truckee meeting that the district is monitoring financials on a state and national level. On what impacts the hospital will see from OBBBA, she said there would likely be an increase in charity care, where healthcare services are provided to patients who are unable to pay their medical bills. Tahoe Forest’s Financial Assistance Program isdetailed here in English.
Roth, who began her tenure as a healthcare CEO in 2008/09, and joined TFHS as such in March of this year, said she’s in her comfort zone amid healthcare reformation, though she called President Trump’s Administration the most “cataclysmic” one in her career.
~ AH
Public Utility District Celebrates Completion of West Lake Tahoe Water Treatment Plant
TAHOE CITY
The Tahoe City Public Utility District (TCPUD) announced the completion and grand opening of the new West Lake Tahoe Regional Water Treatment Plant. This project represents a transformative investment in TCPUD’s water system to provide a permanent, drought-resilient source for drinking water and fire protection for the West Shore of Lake Tahoe.
The road to this milestone began almost 2 decades ago when TCPUD began searching for a permanent solution to a temporary water treatment plant used to meet peak summer water demand.
Located near Chambers Landing, just north of Tahoma, the new state-of-the-art facility replaces the temporary seasonal plant and will now provide a year-round water supply sourced directly from Lake Tahoe. The project strengthens the public water supply, enhances fire protection capabilities, and improves the resilience of TCPUD’s interconnected water infrastructure.
Currently, the treatment plant can deliver almost 1 million gallons of water per day to West Shore customers. The treatment plant may be expanded to meet the needs of up to 2,400 customers from Tahoma to Timberland.
The new water treatment plant is one of the largest capital investments in TCPUD’s history. Funding for the approximately $30 million project was made possible through more than $5.5 million in grant funding from the California Department of Water Resources, the El Dorado Water Agency, and the Placer County Water Agency, and a $19.7 million loan from the California State Water Resources Control Board.
TCPUD Board of Directors and staff, along with project partners, will gather Sept. 10 to mark the official grand opening with a celebratory “first sip” of water from the new treatment plant. Later this fall, TCPUD will host guided public tours of the water treatment plant, with details coming soon.
Three Major Hospital Expansion Projects Will Meet Growing Needs
TRUCKEE
Tahoe Forest Health System (TFHS) has officially launched three large-scale expansion projects designed to address the growing demand for healthcare services in Truckee and North Lake Tahoe. With patient needs on the rise, these projects aim to enhance access, reduce wait times, and ensure the long-term sustainability of care for the region.
GATEWAY CENTER project rendering on Donner Pass Road. Photo courtesy Tahoe Forest Health System
The developments include three separate sites: Sierra Center (located in the former Rite Aid building in Truckee), Gateway, also in Truckee, and the brand-new North Shore Clinic in Dollar Point. Together, the projects will add more than 60 exam rooms and significantly increase the system’s capacity to provide high-quality, local care.
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Debuts Limited-Time Day Pass
INCLINE VILLAGE
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino announced day pass opportunities for late-summer getaways available for a limited time.
When locals book a day pass, they will have access to the resort’s world-class amenities including its lagoon-style mountain-side pool and tranquil hot tubs. They will also receive complimentary towels, wi-fi, and self-parking for their visit.
HYATT REGENCY introduces day-passes for locals, giving them access to the resort’s amenities. Photo courtesy IVCBA/Hyatt Regency
Daycationers can also purchase delicious food and beverages available at the resort’s poolside restaurant and bar. No outside food or beverages are allowed.
For more information or to book a late-summer getaway to Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, please visit hyattregencylaketahoe.com, or call (775) 832-1234.
~ Incline Village Crystal Bay Community & Business Association newsletter
Take Advantage of Liberty’s Electric Vehicle Charging Rebate Program
LAKE TAHOE
Time is running out to take advantage of Liberty’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Rebate Program, a key initiative in the company’s commitment to advancing transportation electrification across its service area. Liberty (CalPeco Electric) has been offering rebates for EV charger purchase and installation since April 2021. While the program is scheduled to sunset at the end of 2025 due to state program changes, customers are encouraged to act now while funding is still available.
Eligible customers can receive:
Up to $1,500 in rebates for residential customers who own or lease a plug-in or plug-in hybrid vehicle
Up to $2,500 for small business customers installing public-access EV chargers
The rebate covers approved smart EV chargers, installation by a licensed California contractor, and associated costs, including labor, materials, panel upgrades, and permits (if required) up to the maximum amount. As part of the program, participants must allow Liberty to collect charging data anonymously to help inform future infrastructure planning.
For more information, eligibility details, or to apply for Liberty’s EV Charger Rebate Program, visit libertyutilities.com/driveelectric/ or call (530) 543-5286.
~ Liberty press release
FlyTahoe Electric Flying Ferry Highlighted in Regional Transportation Plan
LAKE TAHOE
FlyTahoe’s planned cross-lake electric flying ferry, the Candela P-12, has been highlighted as a key environmental improvement project in the Lake Tahoe Regional Transportation Plan. The proposed project offers a potential solution to cut traffic, lower emissions, and protect the lake.
With more than 15 million visitors each year, Lake Tahoe faces mounting traffic congestion, especially during peak seasons and winter road closures. At the same time, emissions and road sediment from such traffic threaten the lake’s world-renowned clarity, adding environmental pressure to the region’s mobility challenges.
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) adopted the Connections 2050 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP)in July, which highlights FlyTahoe’s sustainable water transit network with the centerpiece P-12 cross-lake ferry as a key concept for waterborne transit in the Tahoe Region. Previously listed by the TRPA as an Environmental Improvement Project (EIP), FlyTahoe’s inclusion in both the EIP and RTP reflects the project’s potential to achieve regional environmental goals, including reducing Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), road sediment, and emissions while preserving lake clarity and better connecting shoreline communities.
Subject to regulatory approval, FlyTahoe aims to balance accessibility, inclusivity, and equity for both locals and visitors while supporting the RTP’s goals, including environmental protection, multimodal mobility, safety, system performance, economic prosperity, and infrastructure resiliency. The Candela P-12 is set to serve as FlyTahoe’s flagship vessel as they work to build a more connected, resilient Lake Tahoe.
Read Moonshine’s previous reporting on FlyTahoe here.
~ FlyTahoe press release
Reno-Tahoe International Airport Prepares for Burning Man Crowds
RENO
Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is gearing up for one of its busiest travel periods of the year as the annual Burning Man event and Labor Day weekend overlap. Passenger counts are expected to soar on Aug. 24, 28, 29, and Sept. 1.
RNO is encouraging passengers to plan ahead and allow extra time. Parking and roadways will be especially congested this year due to the combination of increased passenger traffic, Burning Man activity, and construction.
New This Year:
Burner Express activity is moving curbside, creating heavier foot traffic in close proximity to the main terminal.
Burner Express Pick-Up: Boarding for the Burner Express will now be outside baggage claim, a familiar location used in years prior to 2023.
Burner Express Drop-Off: Returning Burners will be dropped off on the south end of the loop road, just before Southwest Airlines check-in.
It is especially important that when drivers are on the loop road, they do not wait curbside, which will be heavily congested.
Travel Tips for All Passengers:
Arrive early: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
Plan parking in advance: Reserve a parking spot online or consider rideshare options and claim $5 off each ride at renoairport.com/parking.
Use the free waiting lot.
Respect restrictions: No oversized vehicles are permitted on airport property.
Check out the Burning Man exhibition, Tiny Titans: The Power of the Maquette on display in the depARTures Gallery.
Help keep RNO and our community clean: Returning Burners will find receptacles for unwanted items at the south end drop-off location, bike donation opportunities, luggage dust bags at their airline check-in counter, and foot coverings.
It’s where the battle of the bands meets the battle of the birds. The competition can be viscous, and at this year’s Guitar Strings vs. Chicken Wings Sept. 5 at Palisades Tahoe, the stakes are even higher.
“It’s been a minute since we won,” said Randy Rogers, owner of the Auld Dubliner, a regular wing-and-tunes contender. “We had a run there for fi ve or six years. It’s time to take it back.”
To take it back, the Dubliner and the other valley restaurants will need to outduel the oldest competitor in the fi eld, PlumpJack Inn, the back-to-back champion whose grounds were built for the 1960 Winter Olympics long before today’s village eateries were ever a whirling notion in Alexaner Cushing’s entrepreneurial mind.
A TRADITION UNLIKE ANY OTHER: The Auld Dubliner will look to regain its championship stride at 2025’s Guitar Strings vs. Chicken Wings. Photos by Blake Kessler
“We’re not a village restaurant,” said Steve Lamb, PlumpJack’s longtime general manager. “So, we are grateful to get the invite and set up in the Tram Plaza. There’s a lot of good local camaraderie, a lot of locals out and about on a Friday night. It’s a great event to be a part of.”
Sure, it’s great if you’re winning. Last year’s dry rub, pickle-back wings with house-made buffalo sauce got PlumpJack the Wing vs. Wing Champion Trophy, and their house band, Tim High & the Mighty, played their incendiary psychedelic rock tunes to victory in the battle of the bands for the $500 cash prize and yearlong bragging rights. The band will take the stage again for the restaurant in 2025, yet something new is planned for its wings.
“There’s a lot of haggling back and forth,” Rogers noted. “A lot of talking crap. The kitchen guys are always trying to come up with new recipes. It’s good competition.”
CHEERS: It’s all wings and smiles (and a puppy) at a previous Guitar Strings vs.Chicken Wings at Palisades Tahoe
Victors in each category are determined by votes cast by participants in attendance. For a nominal entry donation, patrons receive: wing tasting at each restaurant, access to the live music, entry into a raffl e, and six voting tokens (three each for music and wings). Additional voting tokens may be purchased to further push a favorite wing and/or string to victory. Wings will vary by spice-level and taste at each restaurant, and an eclectic mix of music awaits.
“This year we have Another Dam Disappointment,” Rogers said. “A.D.D. for short, a punk band out of Sacramento. We can get a little bluegrassy and a little dead-heady up here in Tahoe, so it’s good to mix it up.”
The Auld Dubliner’s sister restaurant, Tremigo Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Bar, will feature Suika T, the Latin fusion band known for getting the audience grooving.
Rounding out the six-team fi eld will be 22 Bistro and its band, WD Saw and Friends; Fireside Pizza with Vice Grip, and Rocker with Coburn Station, all duking it out for top wings or strings or both. Musically, two village stages will alternate every hour, and bouncing around from venue to venue, wings in hand, is encouraged.
Good Cause
Like every event in the Village at Palisades Tahoe, Guitar Strings vs. Chicken Wings has its own benefi ciary — TINS, the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science.
For the past 15 years, the local, member-supported nonprofi t has sought to advance the natural history, conservation, and ecosystem knowledge of our region. It does so through education, outreach, and citizen-science programs, engaging children and adults alike in its stewardship mission.
Per its website, a long-term goal of TINS is to establish a local, world-class interpretive center and permanent educational facility for “awakening student curiosity and … inviting them to become engaged in their immediate natural surroundings.”
Last year’s event raised over $10,000 for the organization.
The TINS bar will be set up in the Village, where attendees pick up their entry tickets, and it will be offering specials on beer, wine, and cocktails starting promptly at 4 p.m. Music and wings typically kick off around 5 p.m., and while the fun is scheduled to go to 9:30 p.m., no one ever quite knows when the rooster will crow at Guitar Strings vs. Chicken Wings. Attendees who wish to stay the night can book Village lodging for 15% off.
ABSOLUTELY SHREDDING: Bands in the Battle of the Bands portion of the event vie for a $500 cash prize and heck-tons of bragging rights.
“It’s one of my favorite events because it takes place during kind of an off time of year,” said Patrick Lacey, public relations manager at Palisades Tahoe. “It’s more of a local’s event for sure — and who doesn’t like live music and chicken wings?”
And if you like friendly-but-ultra-super-heated competition with cash-money prizes and a year’s worth of bragging rights, all the better.
Plus,” Lamb of PlumpJack culminated, “TINS is awesome.”
For more information about Guitar Strings vs. Chicken Wings, and to learn more about getting involved with TINS or volunteering for the event, visit tinsweb.org.
A group of women from the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California gathered to show their support for the name change of Palisades Ski Resort. | Photo: Ben Rupert, Nevada Indian Territory
To the Washoe (Wašiw) Tribe of Nevada and California, Lake Tahoe isn’t just a beautiful destination, it’s the center of their world. Known in their language as dáɁaw (pronounced “dah-ow), Lake Tahoe and the lands that surround it have always been home. This is grounded in both their oral histories and cultural understanding of time, which is often described as cyclical.
Archaeological evidence supports at least a 12,000-year presence in the region. The Washoe people understand their origins through traditional stories passed down over generations, stories that speak of observing geological changes, like the formation of the Sierra landscape through geological events such as the seiche at Lake Tahoe and the appearance of new plants, such as the single-leaf pinyon pine.
Washeshu Itdeh – “The People From Here”
The Washoe community was, and continues to be, built around family, though the definition of family extends well beyond a nuclear household. Households often included extended relatives and chosen family, and family units worked together in every aspect of daily life. Washoe communities reflect this interconnectedness to this day. Each person, from the youngest child to the most respected elder, played a vital role in the success and well-being of the group.
Winter camps were located in lower elevation valleys with abundant firewood, and families stayed warm through communal effort. As demonstrated by their use of snowshoes, Washoe People were experts at thriving within their homelands despite challenging seasonal conditions.
Traditionally, the Washoe were organized into three regional bands: welmélti (north), ṕáwalu (valley), and huŋalélti (south). A fourth, ťaŋlélti, represented Washoe people living farther west, extending even into what is now California’s Central Valley. While the language remained consistent across these groups, subtle variations in speaking patterns or word choice reflected regional identities.
Today, the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California has approximately 1,500 enrolled members, with communities in Carson City, and Gardnerville, Nevada, as well as Woodfords, California, but there are no reservation lands within the Tahoe Basin due to the history of removal and exclusion. Each of these tribal communities retains strong cultural ties to Lake Tahoe.
A Living Culture
The Washoe worldview is rooted in respect, for people, animals, waters, and the land itself. All things are alive and deserving of respect, autonomy, and reciprocity. Rather than dividing the sacred from the everyday, the Washoe recognize the interconnectedness of all things.
Every action was approached with intentionality. Even something such as washing with water in the morning is still important today. Before any gathering or hunting, individuals would wash themselves in water. When a child is born, the father washes off by jumping into a nearby body of water, and even a baby’s first bath is treated as a special event. Children are especially cherished, and the act of making a cradleboard — called a bíkɨs — is deeply meaningful. These baskets are made by matriarchs in the family or community and woven with intention, love, and positive thoughts. In this way, the basket carries with it all the well wishes and intention for the child it is meant to hold, carry and care for.
A Washoe woman weaving a basket. Photo credit: Ben Rupert, Nevada Indian Territory
Language and Elders
Language revitalization is a central focus of the Washoe Tribe today. While many Indigenous languages have been lost or fragmented due to historic government policies like the Indian Boarding School era, the Washoe language is still spoken by elders and taught to new generations.
Elders play a vital role not only as language carriers but also as cultural teachers. While some modern events may honor elders by serving them first today, children were often fed first or given the best to ensure they would be strong and healthy for the future, reflecting a cultural value that prioritizes the well-being of future generations and taking care of the most vulnerable.
Resilience in the Face of Change
Despite the impacts of colonization — including forced relocation, mining activity, the carving up of ancestral lands, and the trauma of boarding schools — the Washoe people have persevered. While their presence within the Tahoe Basin has been diminished, it has never been erased. Many Washoe traditional practices were forced into hiding; however, the Washoe People have maintained a connection with their homelands and traditions.
Government policies restricted traditional practices such as spear fishing and land access, and the creation of private property boundaries blocked the Washoe from returning to family gathering areas. The Olympic Games, held in Lake Tahoe in 1960, took place while the Tribe was still waiting for the resolution of its Indian Claims Commission case, which wasn’t settled until 1968.
Still, the Washoe continue to advocate for land stewardship and cultural education. As a sovereign nation, the Washoe Tribe holds the inherent right to govern itself, creating its own laws, managing its lands, and carrying forward its traditions independent of state or federal authority.
The Annual Wa She Shu It’ Deh Native American Arts Festival held at Meeks Bay Resort is a celebration of Washoe culture and heritage. Photo credit: Ben Rupert, Nevada Indian Territory
Today and Ongoing
The Washoe Tribe continues to celebrate its culture through events like the annual Waší∙šiw ɁitdéɁ Native American Basket and Arts Festival, held at the Meeks Bay Resort. This vibrant gathering features traditional arts, food, music, and dance, a public celebration and living affirmation of Washoe and Native American culture.
Waší∙šiw ɁitdéɁ Dates: July 26th and 27th, 2025 from 9am-5pm.
American general, trauma, and critical care surgeon, Dr. Feroze Sidhwa, joined CODEPINK, a peace and social justice organization, on Aug. 13 to discuss the impact of Israeli forces on healthcare in Gaza. Without international journalists present, doctors, nurses, and aid workers have become the world’s point of information in the Gaza strip.
As a humanitarian surgeon, Palestine is only one of many conflict-torn places Sidhwa has treated patients. He has also volunteered in Ukraine, Haiti, Zimbabwe, and more. On his first mission to Gaza, he treated a 9-year-old girl who was suffering from sepsis and unknown injuries from a bomb.
Once he was able to inspect her injuries and peel back the bandages on her abdomen, he said maggots spilled out of her side, which had been stapled shut because the surgeon who should have been on duty had been killed. Then, because there were too many patients for the doctors to handle, the girl had been left for days on end without any treatment. The same girl, Sidhwa said, somehow still had her leg attached. Treating her to the extent of his capability took 30 to 40 hours of surgery.
Sidhwa continued on, saying that she is now in Egypt and needs to have her leg amputated. Many other children haven’t made it. The ones who have been maimed — and he said Gaza easily has the most child amputees out of anywhere in the world — can’t be taken care of and won’t survive. Sidhwa spoke of two children sharing a wheelchair and being allowed to leave Gaza accompanied by their aunt, whose own 6-month-old baby was denied the same right by Israel.
DR. SIDHWA gives a talk with CODEPINK on healthcare in Gaza. Photo by Megan Ramsey/Moonshine Ink
Sidhwa’s most recent time volunteering in Gaza was this April, and he is slated to go back again this year despite noting that more aid workers have been killed in Gaza than anywhere else in the world. Having also volunteered in Ukraine during its ongoing conflict with Russia, Sidhwa said the rate of healthcare workers being killed in Gaza is easily 110 times the rate in Ukraine. He said that every person in charge of every hospital in Gaza has either been arrested or killed.
Sidhwa shared an insurmountable level of cruelty faced by Gazans. He described the atrocities inflicted on patients, many of whom will never recover mentally or physically; the rampant starvation and thirst and aid organization’s inability to assure food for volunteers; children shot in the head; children bleeding out on hospital floors crowded with hundreds of other people; hospitals functioning well-beyond capacity; and how, plainly, no amount of medical care can fix Gaza.
He said that Americans and the world are nowhere near doing everything they can.
~ MR
Death at Boca Reservoir
NEVADA COUNTY
On Aug. 12, the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office responded to a death at Boca Reservoir. It was reported that a body was pulled out of the water.
The Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation, and has no further information on the deceased or the cause of death has been released. The reservoir, located north of Lake Tahoe, feeds into the Truckee River.
~ MR
Nevada County’s Newest Historical Landmark 1870s Mount Lola Geodetic Survey Site
NEVADA CITY
The Nevada County Historical Landmarks Commission announced that the site and remains of the 1870s Mount Lola Geodetic Survey was designated on Aug. 12 as Nevada County Historical Landmark NEV 25-07 by the County Board of Supervisors at its Truckee meeting.
MT LOLA Geodetic Survey site is a newly designated Nevada County Historical Landmark NEV 25-07. Photo courtesy Nevada County Historical Landmarks Commission
The landmark will commemorate work done in the 1870s by Prof. George Davidson and his team from the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey. They developed quadrilateral base line measurements, which served as the primary triangulation method for surveying and mapping the West Coast of the United States until the advent of GPS satellite navigation in the 1980s. Davidson worked from atop Mount Lola, where evidence of his work remains.
Mount Lola – named for the legendary Lola Montez, who lived in Nevada County in the 1850s – is located in the Tahoe National Forest, yet the Forest Service does not intend to place a marker on the site.
Anyone wishing to visit the site should remember that it is a long and arduous hike up to the 9,143 elevation. The site will be featured in the next edition of the Commission’s interactive map and e-guide, which can be accessed from nevadacountylandmarks.com or the county website.
~ Nevada County Historical Landmarks Commission press release
Moving In, Moving On, Moving Up
Visit Truckee-Tahoe CEO Colleen Dalton to Retire
TRUCKEE
The Visit Truckee-Tahoe (VTT) Board of Directors announced the retirement of CEO Colleen Dalton in September 2025. She led the Truckee Tourism Business Improvement District (TTBID) for a decade and enjoyed a 30-year career in adventure-travel and tourism. Jackie Calvert, current director of tourism management, will succeed Dalton as executive director following a 9-month transition. Dalton will stay on in an advisory role to provide mentorship and continuity for strategic priorities.
VTT’s transition to the next leader began with recruiting Calvert in May 2024. Jackie served 11.5 years at Palisades Tahoe/Squaw Valley Ski Corp in multiple marketing roles. Dalton and Calvert’s overlap period at VTT resulted in the successful renewal of a 10-year TTBID, Visit Truckee-Tahoe’s updated Two Year Strategic Plan, Tourism Economic Impact Report, and Brand position, in addition to the redesign of visittruckeetahoe.com (in progress).
COLLEEN DALTON retires from Visit Tahoe-Truckee this September, succeeded by Jackie Calvert. Photo courtesy Visit Truckee-Tahoe
Among her many accomplishments, Dalton served with the Truckee Chamber of Commerce from 2015 to 2020 as director of tourism & economic development, overseeing Truckee’s first TTBID. During her tenure, Dalton guided the creation of the Truckee Jobs Collective, Truckee Core Values Fund, Truckee Cultural District, “Base Camp for a Big Life” brand position, and Citizen Quality of Life surveys. Dalton also developed Truckee’s Economic Impact of Tourism Report, first measured at $149M in 2019 and then $245M in 2024, of which 85% is local spending by lodging guests.
Tahoe Forest Recognized as a Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence
TRUCKEE
Tahoe Forest Health System has been recognized as a Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence in the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers Program (NQMBC), the highest level of recognition offered by the National Consortium of Breast Centers (NCBC). The certification is awarded to breast centers that demonstrate excellence in quality performance and accountability through rigorous data collection and benchmarking against national standards.
Achieving Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence status confirms that Tahoe Forest Health System not only meets but exceeds national quality standards. It further reflects the organization’s investment in the latest technologies, clinical best practices, and a culture of continuous learning.
Jackson, Wyoming, has Center for the Arts. Aspen, Colorado, has Wheeler Opera House. Ketchum, Idaho, has Sun Valley Pavilion. Truckee/North Lake Tahoe? A patchwork of borrowed spaces and makeshift stages — or a drive to Reno.
“We have world-class filmmakers and musicians and incredible acting talent and also students that are coming out of our high school that are going on to some of the best art schools in the country, if not in the world,” said Kellie Cutler, program manager at Truckee Cultural District, Nevada County Arts. “But we do not have a state-of-the-art performing arts center.”
The appetite for a true performing arts venue is undeniable, yet the region has repeatedly stumbled where others have succeeded. Proposals have been approved, funding sought, spaces identified — but hardly any actual spaces have materialized. Now, with one venue having recently closed its doors, the question feels sharper than ever: Why can’t Truckee/North Lake Tahoe build — and sustain — the high-quality performing arts venue that the region longs for?
BEHIND THE CURTAIN: Craig Hall and Indiana Woodward, from the New York City Ballet, perform in Christopher Wheeldon’s After the Rain. Photo by Jen Schmidt
Art Finds a Way
Still, the lack of a venue hasn’t stopped the creative community from performing.
The area boasts a vibrant performing arts scene, even if sometimes underground, with organizations producing theater, music, dance, film, and more. Yet many of these groups operate without access to a dedicated performance venue.
Instead, performances happen wherever space can be found. Be it at the Salty Gebhardt Amphitheater in Truckee Regional Park, in high school auditoriums in Truckee and North Lake Tahoe, or at the Truckee Community Arts Center. While these spaces provide valuable access, none were built specifically for the demands of live performance. They lack the acoustics needed for orchestral music, the backstage space for full-length plays, or the lighting and sound systems required for professional-level dance or film. And still, the fixes are far from elegant.
“In our Nutcracker, the middle curtain closes and the guys in their tuxedos have to literally un-Velcro the first act’s set design and walk it into the middle school hallway. This should be a button that gets pushed,” said Christin Hanna, founder and artistic director of Lake Tahoe Dance Collective. “It shouldn’t have to be this hard. And so, personally, I’m really facing burnout.”
To be fair, the region offers plenty of great spots to consume live music — often for free — including concerts at the Crystal Bay Casino and outdoor summer music series in local parks. But what’s missing is a versatile, purpose-built venue that can support a broader spectrum of the performing arts: theater productions, film screenings, orchestral concerts, dance performances.
Years of Planning, Still No Stage
The limitations of the existing spaces aren’t lost on the region’s arts leaders, or audiences. But for some, the reason we don’t have this space already is straightforward. “All these ski towns built performing arts centers to attract people during the summer. Well, we have a lake, so we don’t have a performing arts center. It’s literally that simple,” Hanna said.
Still, a high-quality performing arts venue is a dream that has been on the community’s cultural to-do list for more than two decades. It was, and is, on Hanna’s too.
Around 2006, a group of local leaders and arts advocates formed an arts advocacy group made up of members from Truckee and North Lake Tahoe, including Cutler and Hanna. “That arts council was really driven towards exploring the potential for a state-of-the-art performing arts space in the region,” Cutler said.
At the same time, Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District surveyed the community about whether it preferred a performing arts facility or a new pool. When the bond measure ultimately funded the pool, arts advocate Keith Vogt took the performing arts concept to Placer County and launched the Stages at Northstar project.
Proposed for 22 acres near the entrance to Northstar California Resort, Stages at Northstar included plans for a 150-seat studio theater, 150-seat multi-use room for visual arts and special events, 650-seat proscenium theater, and 2,500-seat outdoor amphitheater. The project secured a long-term sublease from Vail Resorts and began fundraising, with an estimated $60 million needed for construction and endowment. Despite early momentum, the project stalled and never broke ground. In 2021, the Truckee Regional Arts Foundation, the nonprofit responsible for the project, officially withdrew its application, citing fundraising challenges and impacts from the pandemic.
A DRIVING FORCE: Kellie Cutler, at right, program manager at Truckee Cultural District, Nevada County Arts, has been a champion of the arts in Truckee/Tahoe for decades, most recently in her role with Nevada County Arts. Photo by Wade Snider/Moonshine Ink
In 2019, hopes resurfaced with Truckee Art Haus & Cinema in the Railyard development. The initial proposal called for a 12,200-square-foot venue with three auditoriums and the option for performing arts, a meeting hall, and a bar. The Truckee town council approved the project, but financing became a barrier — specifically, a $250,000 traffic mitigation fee.
Meanwhile on the North Shore in Tahoe City, similar efforts also stalled. In 2017, the nonprofit Siren Arts set its sights on transforming the vacant fire station in Tahoe City into a performing arts venue. By 2019, the group had submitted a formal proposal for the space. But like other proposals before, and after, the project has yet to move forward, and the vacant building was most recently being considered as the headquarters for a nonprofit.
A Venue Off the Ground, Then Grounded
The Fox Cultural Hall in Kings Beach marks one of the most recent and tangible efforts to establish a permanent performing arts space in the region. Housed in the former Brockway Theater, the venue was reimagined under the leadership of Eve McEneaney, then-executive director of Arts for the Schools (AFTS).
The renovation was a grassroots effort, supported by investments from the building’s owner and community fundraising for equipment and interior improvements. The 325-seat space opened in 2023 with the hope of becoming a cultural anchor for North Lake Tahoe, offering live performances, community events, and arts education.
But even with initial enthusiasm, Fox Hall also ran into struggles of its own.
Earlier this summer, AFTS made the decision to conclude its residency and programming at the Fox Hall. “This choice comes as part of our long-term commitment to deliver arts education and enrichment directly within the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District. By embedding our services on campus, we can align more closely with TTUSD’s strategic goals.” Lindsay McIntosh, the newest executive director at AFTS and a Juilliard School alumna, wrote in an email to Moonshine Ink, “While the Fox has been an incredible base, AFTS’s current board has decided to transition programming responsibilities to a new community collective, allowing us to detach from venue management.”
While she couldn’t say who makes up this new collective, she did say the nonprofit is actively collaborating with several passionate partners who share the vision for a vibrant performing arts hub. “These organizations are exploring ways to assume stewardship of the Fox Cultural Hall, carry forward its mission, and continue providing our community with a welcoming cultural outlet,” she said.
A Path Forward?
In a community with such pressing needs as housing and workforce retention, some may wonder how the arts fit in. For Jen Callaway, town manager for the Town of Truckee, it isn’t an either/or.
“One of the things in the general plan update that came out most often was community character and retaining community character,” Callaway said. “I think as staff, when we hear that, it’s a balance of having arts. You need those services as well to have that character. So, I think we try to allocate resources accordingly. A lot of our resources are going towards housing, and we’ll also spend time towards arts and supporting the arts.”
STAGE DREAMS: Christin Hanna founded Lake Tahoe Dance Collective 18 years ago, starting with a $500 local grant and growing into a renowned studio with national recognition today. However, she faces burnout from the heavy lifting it takes to produce shows on makeshift staging. She says, “One can only imagine what might unfold if we had, quite simply, a space to enter and move — a room made for dancing.” Photo by Lorrin Brubaker
A dedicated, high-quality performing arts venue in Tahoe/Truckee is possible, advocates say, but only if several major hurdles can be cleared. Land, funding, and long-term sustainability must align. Without those pieces, any new space risks becoming a financial strain rather than a cultural asset.
“Until the town or a city can take on giving either the land for free or helping pay, there’s no way to create a space,” McIntosh said. “To run an actual venue, you need not only a general manager, you need an executive director and you need an artistic director. You need people to clean the space and stay there until 2 in the morning. You need a sound guy.”
The Town of Truckee’s primary focus has been the proposed theatre in the Truckee Railyard, where a development agreement is in effect. Still, if a donor or developer were to come forward with a different viable location, the town would be open to discussion.
“We’re not going to say no,” Callaway said. “We might have to go through a different process for that depending on zoning and land use. But if there’s somebody that’s interested in a project and they’re very set on a location, we’ll have a conversation. The easiest path will be the Railyard.”
The town could also consider concessions, such as reduced rent, to help make a project more financially feasible, but any decision would require a town council vote. Pointing to the Railyard, she noted past support in the form of land contribution and equipment assistance.
“I think we’ve indicated we’re willing to support in some form. The question is how much and what it looks like,” Callaway said.
But finding and identifying an operator remains the biggest challenge. “We’re trying to be in the convening support role to the extent that we can, but local governments typically are not operators of theaters,” Callaway said. “I can’t say it doesn’t happen anywhere, but it’s not really the expertise that we have, but it is a gap that we have in the community. And so, something we’re interested in trying to support if there’s a role for us.”
WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN: The ambitious Stages at Northstar project envisioned multiple state-of-the-art performance spaces nestled near the resort — but despite early momentum, the project never came to fruition. Rendering from Tahoe Regional Arts Foundation Facebook page
The proposed event center in Truckee’s The Old Lumberyard project has sparked some interest. Located on the former site of Truckee Tahoe Lumber in eastern downtown Truckee, the development is a vision of the Cross family, who owned and operated TTL for four generations until its sale earlier this year. The new project is designed as a mixed-use commercial and retail space. At 17,000 square feet and three levels, the project’s event center could host a range of events — but in its current iteration, it’s designed more for weddings and corporate functions than performing arts.
Still, the door isn’t closed. “If the town came back to us and said, ‘Hey, we really want to re-look at this event space, would you be willing to pivot and see if performing arts could be better included?’ We will absolutely come to the table,” said Aimee Schaller, President of CF Holding Company. “We’re huge supporters of the arts and we’d love to see something go in. It just has to make sense. It has to be fiscally responsible.”
That’s part of the challenge. What a theater needs is different from what music or dance require. “Even if you had all the money in the world, how do you create the perfect space that meets the needs of all the different organizations that are going to be using it? It’s tough,” Schaller said.
Hanna remembers a study commissioned as part of the 2006 advocacy group that recommended a network of venues. “It’s best for the region to have different size venues that are appropriate for different things throughout the triangle of Kings Beach, Tahoe City, and Truckee,” she said. “Which I firmly believe in. Because for me, for dance, we need a lot of stage space. You don’t need that for a piano trio.”
“In the absence of a true performance center, we find ourselves endlessly patching the holes in a leaky vessel — time, energy, and resources diverted toward makeshift solutions that might otherwise enrich our programming and enliven the quiet seasons with more performances, said Hanna. “The Lake Tahoe Dance Collective already performs a small miracle with every modest means we have. One can only imagine what might unfold if we had, quite simply, a space to enter and move — a room made for dancing.”
There may also be a glimmer of hope on the lake. In Crystal Bay, the historic Cal Neva — once host to the Rat Pack and Marilyn Monroe — is undergoing a major renovation, and, according to Hanna, there’s talk of reviving its original performing arts space.
According to the project’s website, the space is tracking an opening in 2027. “It’s a good space with a good soul, and I’m very hopeful on that,” Hanna said.
But no matter how inspiring the concept, the same obstacle looms: funding.
Despite the region’s significant wealth, philanthropic support often flows elsewhere. And with major civic efforts already underway — like the campaign to build a new Truckee library — community capacity is limited. The library, many say, is a model of what it takes to bring a project of that scale to life.
“I think it’s a great example of what is involved in community effort in getting a project like that built,” Cutler said. And Schaller agrees. “I wish we could get a group of people, like the Friends of the Truckee Library that are, like, we are making this happen.”
Looking for That Spark
Across the country, performing arts venues are still rebounding from the pandemic, navigating changing audience habits and declining attendance. Tahoe/Truckee is not immune to these challenges, and any new venue will need more than walls and a stage — it will need a solid plan for programming and operational sustainability.
“We’re looking to our sister cultural district, the Grass Valley-Nevada City Cultural District, which has historically been embedded with beautiful performing arts venues,” Cutler said. “Yet many venues across the country and performing arts communities are really struggling post pandemic because people have changed their habits. It’s easier to stay home and view on Netflix than it is to go buy a ticket and see a performance.”
Just down the hill, Grass Valley is one step ahead with the 42,000-square-foot Crown Points Venue, a performing arts complex designed to anchor the local creative economy and serve as a regional draw.
The arts can be an economic engine. “The amount of money that people spend when going to a performance — they buy an outfit, they go to dinner, they get a babysitter,” Hanna said. “The arts can actually be a driver of the economy.”
She has seen it firsthand with her dance company and their performances. “I started with a $500 grant from the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation 18 years ago, and I run a performing arts nonprofit that now has national recognition, and we’re educating our students,” Hanna said. “We’re commissioning new works, and our budget’s now over $350,000 annually.”
The talent is here, and the vision hasn’t gone away.
But realizing it will take more than enthusiasm. It will require buy-in from local institutions, alignment among community leaders, and philanthropic investment from those who call this place home — part-time or full. And whether that moment is coming soon, or still years away, the conversation isn’t over. It’s just waiting for the curtain to rise.
There’s the golden ratio and the Fibonacci sequence. There’s the a2 + b2 = c2 of a right triangle. And then there’s the acoustically perfect concert-hall ratio known as “the shoebox.”
“It creates the perfect environment for sound to essentially enhance itself,” says Ken Hardin, artistic director of InConcert Sierra, which is building the organization’s very own shoebox as part of the new Crown Point Venues in Grass Valley. “The basics are that the ceiling is half the width [of the room] and the width is half the length, which allows the note to bellow after the sound is made, letting it live in the room for a longer time so it can make a richer sound.”
(The reverb knob on an electric guitar essentially tries to mimic what the shoebox design does naturally.)
Hardin proceeds to orate on the shoebox and acoustics at length, sounding like some Merlin of music as he spins phrases and philosophies on intervals and intonation, octaves and overtones, resonance and reverb. He speaks eloquently of the acoustic genius of the European cathedrals built in the 900s to 1300s, and how the modern shoebox design evolved from them as more of an everyman’s solution to sound.
Still, when it’s completed in the latter half of 2026, Crown Point’s shoebox concert hall will be one of only 12 of its kind in the United States, one of only two with a seating capacity under 1,000 — and the only one in a rural setting.
Crown Point Venues will be worldclass, and it will be right here in the Sierra Nevada.
STANDING OVATION at a recent InConcert Sierra show at its current temporary home. Photo courtesy Valle Visions Photography
A Long Journey
It was the German writer and philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe who told us that if we are bold, mighty forces will come to our aid. That sure seems to be the case with the little shoebox that could.
“It’s been an ambitious project from the outset,” says Julie Hardin, InConcert Sierra’s executive director and Ken’s wife. “And there’s been serendipity everywhere.”
Crown Point Venues is the latest effort by InConcert Sierra to find a permanent home. Founded in 1946 to provide classical and choral music to the region, InConcert has gone through at least seven significant home bases over the years, starting out in the Grass Valley Veteran’s Memorial Building and moving around to local churches, schools, theaters, and cultural centers. It is currently back to putting on its concerts in a church, which does have high-end acoustics but presents limitations on scheduling flexibility, the types of music that may be presented, and overall growth potential.
Thus the continued search for the forever home. The organization got close to purchasing something in 2015 but it ultimately did not work out. Still, the effort was not without a boon — a patron saw the struggle and approached Ken to ask him what it would take to keep the dream of a dedicated concert hall alive.
“Well,” Ken joked, “if you had a million dollars in your back pocket, we could make some progress.”
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CONCEPT ART of the completed Crown Point Venues, which will house a ‘shoebox’ concert hall, a black-box theater, and a conference center. Courtesy photo
WHAT WILL BE: Concept art of the completed shoebox concert hall.
The woman looked at Ken. “I was thinking more along the lines of $2 million,” she said.
After many conversations and considerations, the gift was ultimately made in 2018. InConcert continued its search for a building, and then March 2020 and the pandemic came along. Before the real estate market soared, the bottom fell out, especially in the office-space segment.
“We identified a building that had been home to a big tech company,” Hardin says of a potential home for their new concert hall. “The place was huge.”
Roughly 1 whole acre under roof, the asking price had already dropped due to the pandemic, and InConcert was able to purchase it for even less. A building that was appraised for tax purposes at $8 million was obtained for $2.1.
“It was crazy,” Hardin recounts, speaking to some of that serendipity his wife speaks of.
After cutting through the red tape, InConcert finally took possession of the building in March 2023. Seventy-seven years after its founding, the organization had finally found its forever home. Thirty-six hours later the roof collapsed.
“It was devastating,” Hardin acknowledges. “That Snowmaggedon storm hit and about 14,000 square-feet of roof collapsed under the weight. The storm kept on and 3 days later another section of about 10,000 square feet collapsed. We were reeling.”
But all was not lost. In fact, the silver lining came to shine through rather bright.
“After a while we came to see that Mother Nature had done us a big favor,” Hardin says.
InConcert was already planning to remove a portion of the roof in order to raise it and achieve the vital ratio for the shoebox. Mother nature simply accelerated the demolition and got them an insurance payout to boot. Mighty forces indeed.
Versatile Venues
In addition to the shoebox acoustic concert hall, a completed Crown Point will also feature a black-box theater with state-of-the-art lighting and sound, a 35-foot ceiling, and a moveable stage and seating.
“Any theater group can come in and do whatever they want,” Julie says. “Plays can be put on traditionally or ‘in the round’ [the stage located in the middle of the seats], and the catwalk for the lighting will be top-notch.”
Further, a designated conference center will feature an on-site kitchen and over 300 banquet seats to fulfill a need for the many area nonprofits, as well as for outside entities desiring a destination retreat. As icing on the cake, Crown Point will have ample parking, a rarity in the locale.
Tours of the in-progress venue are being offered on a reservation basis. And the shoebox has already received its share of awed visitors.
“We literally have musicians from all over the world coming by to experience it,” Ken says. “They usually walk in, talk or sing a bit, and then ask, ‘Can I go get my instrument??’”
The fight over the future of Olympic Valley and Palisades Tahoe has been going on for a long time. Fourteen years, to be precise. In that time, a 5-year legal battle ensued after Sierra Watch filed a lawsuit in 2016 against Placer County for approving the project. The environmental group eventually prevailed, but in 2023 the ski area resubmitted its plans with only minor changes. When the county approved the project again in 2024, Sierra Watch sued a second time, this time joined by Keep Tahoe Blue (also known as the League to Save Lake Tahoe).
The cycle of approvals and lawsuits seemed like it would go on forever until, out of the blue, the parties announced July 8 that they had reached an agreement — Palisades will reduce the total number of bedrooms by 40% and commercial space by 20%. In return, the plaintiffs agreed to drop their lawsuit.
So, what changed? Why were the two sides able to come to an agreement now, after more than a decade of fighting and getting nowhere?
What brought the parties together in January was a mandatory settlement agreement issued by the court, which was triggered by Sierra Watch and Keep Tahoe Blue’s lawsuit at the end of last year. As Sierra Watch Executive Director Tom Mooers explained, “It’s basically the court saying, ‘Get in a room and work it out before going through the expensive trouble of litigation.’”
Sierra Watch and Palisades had been here before after the 2016 lawsuit was filed. How were things different this time?
While all parties signed a confidentiality agreement, making the content of the discussions private, who was at the negotiating table is no secret. Sierra Watch and Keep Tahoe Blue’s representatives had not changed — Mooers had been leading the fight and discussions with Palisades and its parent company, Alterra Mountain Company (and before that, KSL Capital Partners), since the beginning, just like Keep Tahoe Blue’s representative, chief strategy officer Jesse Patterson.
But the people sitting on the Palisades and Alterra side of the table were not the same ones. Over the course of the proposed project’s lifespan, there have been four Palisades CEOs — Andy Wirth, Ron Cohen, Dee Byrne, and now Amy Ohran, who was named to the position almost 1 year ago. Last fall, Alterra also replaced its vice president of real estate, Bryan Elliot, with Arden Hearing.
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NEGOTIATING PARTNERS: The key players in the landmark agreement between Palisades Tahoe, Sierra Watch, and Keep Tahoe Blue include Alterra Senior Vice President of Real Estate Development Arden Hearing. Courtesy photo
NEGOTIATING PARTNERS: The key players in the landmark agreement between Palisades Tahoe, Sierra Watch, and Keep Tahoe Blue include Keep Tahoe Blue Chief Strategy Officer Jesse Patterson. Courtesy photo
NEGOTIATING PARTNERS: The key players in the landmark agreement between Palisades Tahoe, Sierra Watch, and Keep Tahoe Blue include Sierra Watch Executive Director Tom Mooers. Courtesy photo
NEGOTIATING PARTNERS: The key players in the landmark agreement between Palisades Tahoe, Sierra Watch, and Keep Tahoe Blue include Palisades CEO Amy Ohran. Courtesy photo
“It’s like when you say the same thing over and over. It was the same voice on our end — it was me. It was Tom,” said Patterson about the League’s message that the project would have negative impacts on the lake. “It’s not like we had new people saying something differently. We had the same people saying the same thing and [this time] it landed.”
Ohran attributes some of the success of the negotiations to the fact that both she and Hearing were new to the discussions.
“I am new as is my partner at Alterra leadership, Arden,” Ohran said. “Being new really gives rise to listening in a different way. As we both got up to speed on the project, we really took to heart the opportunity to listen deeply and identify if we could come to some common ground. We took it as an opportunity to see if we could build a different relationship and understanding with both Sierra Watch and the League.”
A major motivation to reach an agreement was most likely the hundreds of thousands of dollars each side would spend on legal fees pursuing and defending the second lawsuit, and, for Palisades, the delay this would cause the development.
“We found at conference that we understood there could actually be resolution as an alternative to more years of litigation,” Mooers said. “All parties agreed to that and agreed to talk further.”
Ohran said that Alterra recognized the need to change course.
“We had support and empowerment from our company Alterra to come to a different outcome … and have the ability to move Palisades Tahoe forward,” she said. “Obviously, the original vision for the Village Specific Plan was conceived in a different era. The timing was right to take a look at how we could not only get a different outcome, but to evolve the plan to something that is more reflective of what we heard from the community and certainly in negotiations with Sierra Watch.”
Negotiations took 6 months, which Mooers said may seem like a long time, but considering the two parties had been fighting for 14 years, was an accomplishment in and of itself.
“These negotiations are a great example of how people can come to the table to be open to new ideas and negotiate in good faith and establish common ground, and the result is not just successful negotiations but a revised vision for the future of Olympic Valley,” he said.
Patterson and Mooers both said that while they would have liked to have seen the development reduced even more, the end result is a project that all sides can live with.
“Not everyone got what they wanted, but a lot of good came of it and we found alignment,” Patterson said.
The agreement also marks the end to a contentious chapter in Tahoe’s history.
“The uncertainty that hung over the valley for so many years was in and of itself a problem,” Mooers said. “I do get the sense that people are really grateful that we can move forward with a better sense of what the future holds for the region, not just furthering a cycle of litigation and uncertainty.”
Other changes in the agreement include a smaller Mountain Adventure Center with a recommitment to excluding the controversial water park (Palisades announced last September that it was removing all water park features), replacing the subdivision marked for the base of Shirley Canyon with a conservation easement, and no additional development in the specific plan area for 25 years.
Placer County still needs to approve the amended agreement, which Ohran said will happen at the end of this year or in early 2026.
in the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers Program
