Exciting Changes for the 2025 Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration!
February 12, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning
The dedicated community leaders behind the Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration in Incline Village recently met to discuss the future of this beloved event. After careful consideration, they’ve made an exciting scheduling change for 2025—one that we’re thrilled to share with you early so you can plan ahead!
New for 2025: The Parade and Fireworks will be back-to-back celebrations!
This update brings even more energy and excitement to our community’s Independence Day festivities. The event lineup for the 2025 Local Heroes Celebration is outlined below.
2nd Annual ITF Beer and Brats at UNR Lake Tahoe (Time TBA)
Thursday, July 3
NLTFPD pancake breakfast 8 – 10 AM
Kids Bike Parade and Parade 10 – 11 AM
Community Fair on the Village Green 11 AM – 2 PM
Veterans Reception 5 PM
Flag Retirement Ceremony – Dusk
Friday, July 4th
IVCB Veterans Pancake Breakfast 8 AM – 12 PM
Fireworks – dark
The 4th of July Local Heroes Celebration is brought to you by IVCBA, ITF, RWTBII, IVGID, NLTFPD, Washoe County Sherriff’s Department and many, many volunteers!
The Local Lens – Celebrating the Season with Jingle & Mingle
December 11, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
I am so grateful to work with an organization likeIVCBA, whose mission is to “build community and grow cohesiveness for the sustainability of Incline Village and Crystal Bay.” Through our work, we design, produce, and promote events that truly bring people together.
One of our most beloved annual traditions is the Northern Lights Holiday Festival, which has grown to include cherished community favorites like last weekend’s Candy Cane Lane and Village Celebration at UNR Lake Tahoe—where Santa himself made a special appearance! This year, we’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new village-wide experience: Jingle & Mingle.
What is Jingle & Mingle?
Join us this Saturday, December 14, from 11 AM to 3 PM, as Incline Village transforms into a festive holiday hub. Wander through charming streets illuminated with twinkling lights and seasonal décor, shop for unique treasures from local vendors, and fuel up with warm drinks and holiday treats along the way.
With over 25 local merchants, restaurants, and businesses participating, this event is your perfect opportunity to shop local, eat local, and play local—all while spreading holiday cheer and supporting our community.
Shop Local
Discover one-of-a-kind gifts and incredible deals from local favorites:
You’ll enjoy sips and snacks at many of these stops.
As snowflakes fall on our beautifully lit Tahoe Boulevard, take advantage of this festive celebration to shop local, share smiles, and connect with neighbors.
We do this for our community, and we want to hear from you! Share your Jingle & Mingle experience—send us photos, tag us on social media, and let us know your favorite moments.
Santa and Mrs. Claus are Coming to Town this Saturday!
December 4, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
Experience the Magic of Candy Cane Lane and Village!
Get ready for a festive family extravaganza as Candy Cane Village takes center stage at the Patterson Hall and Patio at UNR in the heart of Lake Tahoe. This annual community event, held as part of the Northern Lights Festival, promises a day of joy, laughter, and holiday cheer for the entire community.
Special Guests: Nevada Santa and Mrs. Mrs. Lollie Claus!
Watch in awe as Nevada Santa and Mrs. Lollie Claus make a grand entrance, arriving in style aboard the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District’s fire engine. The excitement kicks off with the “Santa Stroll,” guiding families from the whimsical Candy Cane Lane at the IVGID Recreation Center to the magical Candy Cane Village on the UNR campus. Be sure to capture the moment with photos as Santa and Mrs. Lollie Claus spread holiday cheer throughout the village.
Candy Cane Lane Extravaganza!
Embark on a holiday adventure starting at the IVGID Rec Center, where Candy Cane Lane, sponsored by IVGID Parks and Recreation, begins. Families can visit the Rec Center first, where they can send their letters to Santa.
Then, follow the festive path adorned with holiday decorations, to greet Santa and Mrs. Mrs. Lollie Claus delivered in style by North Tahoe Fire Protection District Fire Engine at 2:30 PM. During the “Santa Stroll” they will guide people from Candy Cane Lane to the Candy Cane Village. They will entertain and pose for photos in the Candy Cane Village created on the campus.
Candy Cane Village is the community’s premiere family event for Northern Lights. Held in Patterson Hall and on the Patio at UNR at Lake Tahoe, it features Nevada Santa and Mrs. Lollie Claus.
The WCSO Incline Substation is sponsoring “Cocoa with the Captain.” UNR will provide refreshments. Local service clubs, agencies, and nonprofits will sponsor additional activities. These organizations include The Pet Network, Rotary Tahoe Incline, Rotary of Incline Tahoe, IVBCA, UNR, AAUW, IVGID, Incline Education Foundation, Travel North Tahoe Nevada, Daisy Daycare, and the IVCB Veteran’s Club.
Live Performances and Singalongs
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with live performances by the Incline Elementary School Choir at Candy Cane Village. Join the community singalong at 3:00 PM and let the joyful tunes fill the air.
Free event parking is available at the IVGID Rec Center and UNR, Lake Tahoe’s main parking lot off Country Club Drive.
Embrace the Spirit of Giving Tuesday: Give Locally
November 26, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
GivingTuesday is more than just a date; it’s a global movement rooted in the transformative power of generosity. Since its inception in 2012, this initiative has grown beyond a single day, inspiring millions to give, collaborate, and celebrate kindness throughout the year.
This GivingTuesday, we invite you to take part in this movement—not just on the designated day but as a daily practice. Whether you volunteer your time, make a financial contribution, or amplify the voices of local nonprofits, every act of kindness creates ripples of positive change. Remember, no gesture is too small; each one contributes to building a better, more compassionate world.
For many nonprofits, the holiday season is a critical time for fundraising. GivingTuesday serves as a focal point, providing an opportunity for communities to rally around local causes and organizations. As we enter this season of gratitude and generosity, we encourage you to think locally and embrace the spirit of giving. Supporting our neighbors and strengthening our community through generosity are values that unite us all.
One organization championing this mission is the Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation, often regarded as the “umbrella” organization for nonprofits in our region. CEO Claudia Andersen encapsulates their purpose beautifully:
“For over 25 years, Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation has been dedicated to nurturing community philanthropy by connecting donors with causes that truly matter. We urge our community to be generous in supporting our hardworking non-profit organizations, not just during the giving season, but throughout the entire year. Together, we can enhance and preserve the quality of life in this beautiful place we call home.”
Discover how you can support nonprofits across the Tahoe Basin by visiting TahoeGives.org.
This GivingTuesday, let’s prioritize giving locally. Your contributions, no matter the form, make a meaningful impact on our community. Together, we can create a season—and a world—filled with generosity and care.
Get Ready for the Sparkling Northern Lights Festival in Incline Village and Crystal Bay!
November 20, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
The holiday season is here, and our community is pulling out all the stops for the annual Northern Lights Festival! This magical event lineup brings holiday joy to the North Lake Tahoe area with free and family-friendly festivities, dazzling decorations, and events that warm the heart. So, grab your friends, family, and neighbors to celebrate in style! You can find all the details on the official Northern Lights festival website.
The Northern Lights Festival really makes our town sparkle, and it’s amazing to see locals and visitors join in holiday cheer. From lights and decorations to gatherings and concerts, it’s the best time of year to be part of this community!
Here’s a peek at some of the fun in store this year:
Candy Cane Lane & Village at UNR Lake Tahoe (December 7) – Step into a holiday wonderland full of treats and fun with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and carols by the Incline Elementary School Choir
Messiah Concert by Tahoe Phil (December 10) – Catch the 19th annual performance of this beautiful holiday classic at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
A Night in Bethlehem (December 13) – This interactive event at Cornerstone Community Church will bring the Christmas story to life for the whole family.
Brunch with Santa (December 14) – Meet Santa, enjoy a festive brunch, and celebrate with Tahoe Family Solutions and the Incline Village General Improvement District! (Heads up, it’s already sold out!)
And we’re not stopping there! New this year is Jingle & Mingle, a village-wide holiday event on Saturday, December 14 where local shops, merchants, and businesses are offering unique gifts, treats, and seasonal goodies. Stroll through town to soak up the festive lights, sip on hot cocoa, and browse one-of-a-kind finds to make your holiday gifting extra special.
This season is packed with experiences for everyone! Don’t miss the Handmade Holidays event at Karacotta Pottery Studio on November 30, Diamond Peak’s opening day on December 12 (fingers crossed for snow!), and live music at local spots like Crystal Bay Club’s Crown Room, Glasses Wine Bar, and Alibi Ale Works. And for those celebrating the season with faith, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Hanukkah services kick off on December 25 at local churches and temples.
Spread Cheer: Donate Today to Light Up the Village!
Celebrate the season and help bring magic to Incline Village by donating to the Northern Lights Festival. Your support keeps our holiday celebrations vibrant for all to enjoy.
For the latest updates, event details, and ways to participate, visit www.ivcba.org.
Washoe Tahoe Academy Program Kick-Off – Learn More on Monday, November 18!
November 5, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
Please join us for a free informational kick-off event in Incline Village on Monday, November 18 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM at the University of Nevada, Reno Lake Tahoe Campus Prim Library.
The Washoe Tahoe Academy will launch in May of 2025, featuring lessons in civic leadership and engagement with the goal of inspiring Incline Village and Crystal Bay residents to become involved in their community, with an eye on working collaboratively to find solutions to common problems. The three partner agencies putting the Academy together are Washoe County, University of Nevada, Reno’s Cooperative Extension, and Incline Village Crystal Bay Business Association (IVCBA).
This is a brand-new program created for Incline Village and Crystal Bay residents promoting knowledge of local government, inspiration and opportunities for civic engagement, and networking with fellow Washoe Tahoe residents. The Washoe Tahoe Academy will consist of five themed sessions, held monthly from 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m., each Thursday throughout the month of May 2025, at the UNR Lake Tahoe campus. The Academy will be treated as a cohort, with a graduating class occurring annually or possibly bi-annually in future years. This is a free program for those who are selected, capping at 25 participants. Applicants must be over the age of 18 and reside in Washoe Tahoe where they reside at least part time.
In its first year, Washoe County intends to improve relationships with residents in Washoe Tahoe, as well as build an understanding of what the various governing agencies in the area do, how they work together, how people can become more involved in these governing agencies, and inspiring collaboration to break down silos, both with fellow residents, as well as with tourists.
The five program sessions include:
Collaborate with Your Community –Themes include dignity dialogue, conflict resolution, and collaboration skills. The Lesson and group discussion will be led by Dr. Marlene Rebori from the University of Nevada, Reno’s Cooperative Extension.
Know Your Community: The acronyms can feel overwhelming… TTD, TRPA, TPC, TMT, IVGID, TNTNV, NTCA, IVGID, Clean Tahoe, Washoe County – what they do, what they don’t do, how they serve you, and how you can become involved?
Drive Your Community: Your Roadmap to Policy Change! Learn about Jurisdictions, Area Plans, how policies are made, and how you can influence policy and create real change in your community.
Love Your Community: Learn about opportunities for involvement on boards and committees in Washoe County, as well as local nonprofits, how to apply, and promote yourself for appointment and get engaged.
Sustain Your Community: What does it mean to be a good steward of the environment? Discuss Lake Stewardship and Dialogue with Tourism Agencies, environmental agencies, the sustainability Manager of Washoe County, and UC Davis TERC Science Center.
The May 2025 program will be limited to 25 participants and is free. Learn more about the Washoe Tahoe Academy and the application process at https://www.washoecounty.gov/WTA/
Please join us for a free informational kick-off event in Incline Village on Monday, November 18 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM at the University of Nevada, Reno Lake Tahoe Campus Prim Library.
IVGID Board of Trustee Candidate Forum to be Held September 30 at Incline High School
September 6, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
On Monday, September 30, IVCB Community Forum and IVCBA will present a moderated community forum, providing the community an opportunity to participate in a moderated Q&A session with the 2024 IVGID Board of Trustees candidates.
We will have the unique opportunity to hear directly from our local IVGID Board of Trustee candidates, each eager to share their vision for the future of our community.
Questions will only be accepted during the meeting from those attending in-person.
Let’s make the most of this chance to get informed and involved in shaping the direction of our community.
All six candidates will participate in the forum on Monday, September 30 from 6-9PM in the Duffield Theatre at Incline High School. The Forum will be broadcast live, and available later, on the IVCB Community Forum YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/@iv-cbcommunityforum9730
The candidates running for the board are:
Michael “Mick” Homan
Michelle Jezycki
Harry Swenson
Michaela Tonking (incumbent)
Frank Wright
Mark Case
All six candidates are expected to be present for the community forum.
Mick is a seasoned C-suite executive with over 35 years of financial leadership, including experience at a Fortune 50 company and in the public accounting profession. He has built and led high-performance global teams and brings extensive boardroom experience to the table. His key priorities include fiscally responsible investment in utility infrastructure and recreational facilities, as well as rebuilding IVGID’s workforce to make it an employer of choice for top talent.
Michelle Jezycki
Michelle, a proud Incline Village native and Incline High graduate, has returned home after a successful career in Washington, D.C., where she worked as the Director of HR at the U.S. Senate. Now a management consultant, Michelle is passionate about improving IVGID’s staff, culture, and morale. She’s focused on the responsible management of IVGID’s assets and believes in a proactive approach to leadership, remarking, “We are better than this.”
Harry Swenson
Harry has been a full-time resident of Incline Village for over a decade, but his love for the area dates back to the late 1960s. A retired NASA scientist and executive, Harry has overseen complex projects with budgets exceeding hundreds of millions of dollars. He has received three NASA medals for his technical and management expertise. A dedicated community volunteer, Harry’s extensive professional background, financial acumen, and deep commitment to Incline Village make him a strong candidate for the board.
Michaela Tonking
Michaela is a lifelong member of the community seeking re-election to the IVGID Board. With deep roots in Incline Village, she has a keen understanding of local challenges, particularly the need to rebuild and restore stability at IVGID after significant turnover. Michaela’s background in accounting and experience working with state governments and Local Education Agencies give her a unique blend of financial expertise and public administration insight. This makes her a strong candidate to continue guiding IVGID’s future.
Incline Village Community Forum to Feature Candidates for Washoe County Commission District 1
August 14, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
IVCB Community Forum and IVCBA welcome the community to participate in a moderated Q&A with the Washoe County Commission District 1 candidates. The event will take place on Thursday, August 15 at 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Duffield Theatre at Incline High School (499 Village Boulevard, Incline Village, NV) and is open to the public.
This forum provides an excellent opportunity for residents of Washoe County to engage with the candidates, ask questions, and learn about their platforms and visions for the future of the county. The event aims to foster an informed electorate by encouraging direct dialogue between the community and those seeking to represent them.
The candidates for Washoe County Commission District 1 are: Marsha Berkbigler (www.marsha4washoe.com) and Alexis Hill (www.votealexishill.com).
Each candidate will have the opportunity to present their key issues and goals, followed by a moderated Q&A session where community members can ask questions about topics that matter most to them. The forum will be moderated by IVCB Community Forum members. Questions will only be accepted during the meeting from those attending in-person.
“We believe that an informed community is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy,” said Linda Offerdahal, IVCBA Executive Director. “This forum is designed to give voters a clear understanding of where each candidate stands on important issues so they can make an informed decision in the upcoming election.”
IVCB Community Forum and IVCBA encourage all residents of District 1 Washoe County to attend this important event. For those unable to attend in person, the forum will be live-streamed on http://www.youtube.com/@iv-cbcommunityforum9730 and recorded for later viewing.
EVENT DETAILS
DATE: Thursday, August 15
TIME: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
LOCATION: Duffield Theatre at Incline High School (499 Village Blvd, Incline Village, NV)
LIVE STREAM: http://www.youtube.com/@iv-cbcommunityforum9730
Immediately following the Local Heroes Parade on Tuesday, July 2, the community is invited to the Community Fair on the Village Green (11AM – 3PM).
Interact with the heroes of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office and their tactical vehicles at the Meet & Greet, participate in the Highlander Pride Youth Olympics, and savor delicious barbecue at the Highlander Pride Backyard BBQ fundraiser on the Village Green. Don’t miss the annual Susie Scoops Ice Cream Eating Contest at 1PM for extra smiles.
The following nonprofits, businesses, and service clubs, as listed below will host booths, games, and handout information & freebies.
IVCBA
Washoe County Sheriff Office
Lefrancois Engineering
North Tahoe Democrats
Pet Network Humane Society
Onward Ops Foundation
Elevated Water Sports
PTSD NOW!
Bridget Giroux Design
Tahoe Family Solutions
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
IVCB Republican Women’s Club
Washoe County Sheriff Office
Daisy Trails Forest Preschool
Village Pet Foundation
Incline Village Library
IVGID – Incline Village General Improvement District
2024 Local Heroes Parade Lineup, Route & Road Closures
June 27, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
The Local Heroes Parade theme pays tribute to veterans, firefighters, healthcare workers, educators, service workers, parents, and everyone who helps build our community (that’s YOU!).
The Parade is Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM. See map below for the route and road closures.
Each year our parade is kicked off by the Local Heroes Kids Bike Parade – once you see them round the corner, you’ll know the Parade is on its way. This year, we have over 50 entries in the Parade representing all reaches of our community!
National Anthem Performed by Annabelle Kelly (at Bowl Incline)
Reno Mustang Car Club: Larry Osslund – Viet Nam/Navy
Reno Mustang Car Club: Richard Cribben: Army
Reno Mustang Car Club: Don Schellenberg
Reno Mustang Car Club: Ed Yarich: Military: Member IVC
Reno Mustang Car Club: Ron Kalanick: Viet Nam: Marines
Reno Mustang Car Club: Steve Richards: Military
Reno Mustang Car Club: David Ramsey
IVCBA Future Local Heroes
Incline Martial Arts
Driving Miss Tahoe – Chole Menzies
Pet Network
Rotary Duck Drop Float 2024
Rotary Club of Tahoe Incline
Lake Tahoe Athletic Club
Jacked Up
Alfa Romeo Club of Incline Village – Jeff Forsyth & Maureen Reilly
Alfa Romeo Club of Incline Village – Allan & Kathy Slocum
Alfa Romeo Club of Incline Village – Ron Pizer
Around Town Tours – Chris Talbot
Michelle Jezycki for IVIGID Trustee
Incline Village Community Hospital & Mike Young
Northern Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross
Music Is Medicine Tour – The Jambulance
REMAX/Inside Incline – Sabrina Genter
REMAX/Inside Incline – Sabrina Belleci
Bowl Incline
AAUW Tahoe Nevada Celebrates Our Scholars
Boys and Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe
Village Pet Foundation
The Lee Family
Incline Village Crystal Bay Republican Women’s Club
Incline Village Girl Scout Troop 140
Kuchulis and Simvoulakis Families
Diamond Peak Ski Team
Michaela Tonking for IVIGID Trustee
Daisy Trails Forest Preschool
Washoe County Library – Incline Village
Jim Perez – 30 year Incline resident
Bridget Giroux Design
Happy Tiers Bakery
Incline Star Follies
Carol Del Carlo – Nevada Board of Regents, District 9
Lake Tahoe School
SQ Ent. Our American Dream
Tahoe Workz Snow Removal
North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District – Engine 13
Washoe County Roads Department
Washoe County Sherif Department
Thanks to both of our Parade Emcees; Kristen Miller (corner of Southwood and Incline Way/Bowl Incline) and Jason Phillips (Village Green area).
And an extra special shout-out to the many, many volunteers that make the Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration a way for all of us to come together as a community and make memories.
