Washoe County has appointed Ryan Gustafson as assistant county manager, effective March 30.
Ryan Gustafson
Gustafson has served Washoe County since September 2017 and currently leads the Human Services Agency (HSA) as director. In his new role, he will transition from leading HSA to supporting countywide priorities and strategic initiatives as part of the County Manager’s leadership team.
Gustafson brings more than two decades of experience in human services, with a professional background focused on child welfare and children’s mental health. His public service career began in 2000 and includes experience with the Washoe County School District, the State of Nevada, and local psychiatric facilities.
A graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, Gustafson holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno. In 2007, Gustafson became a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and spent several years in private clinical practice.
Throughout his career, Gustafson has focused on strengthening systems that support individuals and families and improving access to services for vulnerable members of the community. During his tenure as director of HSA, he helped guide programs and partnerships that provide critical support to residents across Washoe County.
As assistant county manager, Gustafson will work alongside County Manager Kate Thomas and the executive leadership team to help advance the County’s strategic priorities and continue delivering essential services to the community.
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Announces 2026 Wine Pairing Dinner Series
March 11, 2026 | Member Submitted
Nikki Ritcher
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, a spacious resort nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, announces a wine pairing dinner series for 2026 at Osteria Sierra. The series will feature curated dining experiences highlighting renowned wineries from around the world, each paired with a four-course prix fixe menu crafted by the resort’s culinary team.
“We are thrilled to offer elevated dining experiences that bring guests together around exceptional food and wine,” said Andrew DeLapp, resort manager at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino. “Our 2026 wine dinner series will showcase iconic wineries paired with delicious dishes prepared by our incredible chefs at Osteria Sierra.”
The wine dinner series will feature monthly events from March through June 2026, offering guests the opportunity to explore a diverse range of celebrated wineries and thoughtfully paired menus in an intimate setting.
Upcoming wine dinners include:
March 19th: Celebrating Women in Wine with Pahlmeyer April 23rd: Duckhorn, Celebrating their 50th Anniversary May 21st: ZD Winery June 11th: L’Ecole June 25th: Honig
Guests attending the wine dinner series can enjoy exclusive savings on overnight accommodations with a special offer of 20% off the standard room rate when booking with offer code LTWINE.
For more information or to book a getaway to Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, please visit HyattRegencyLakeTahoe.com, or call (775) 832-1234.
About Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
Situated among the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the award-winning Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino offers a premier destination based in the nature-infused setting of North Lake Tahoe. The resort is home to an on-site Adventure program offering daily guided activities to help guests explore the Tahoe outdoors with everything from group hikes and archery classes to meditation sessions. Guests can enjoy premium amenities such as a year-round heated lagoon-style pool, two hot tubs, and a 25,000 square-foot Grand Lodge Casino. The resort also boasts the 20,000 square-foot Stillwater Spa featuring a variety of relaxing massages, facials and body treatments as well as state-of-the-art touchless therapies including the Cryobuilt Cryochamber, “Pearl” a revolutionary float orb, and the “Harmony” bioacoustic mat. The property showcases premier dining opportunities at the brand-new Osteria Sierra offering elevated Italian cuisine, pub-style fare at Cutthroat’s Saloon, and grab-and-go selections at Tahoe Provisions. Additional culinary delights include afternoon tea service on the weekends and a selection of world-class pastries created by the resort’s renowned team of pastry chefs. Recognized for excellence, the resort has garnered numerous awards including Travel + Leisure’s 500 Best Hotels in the World, Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best, Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Smart Meetings Smart Stars Awards, and U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotel Awards.
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, at 111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village, NV, 89451. For more information, visit HyattRegencyLakeTahoe.com or follow the resort on Facebook or Instagram.
About Hyatt Regency hotels
The Hyatt Regency brand is a global collection of hotels and resorts found in more than 200 locations in over 40 countries around the world. The depth and breadth of this diverse portfolio, from expansive resorts to urban city centers, is a testament to the brand’s evolutionary spirit. For more than 50 years, the Hyatt Regency brand has championed fresh perspectives and enriching experiences, while its forward-thinking philosophy provides guests with inviting spaces that bring people together and foster a spirit of community. As a hospitality original, Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts are founded on openness—our colleagues consistently serve with open minds and open hearts to deliver unforgettable celebrations, effortless relaxation and notable culinary experiences alongside expert meetings and technology-enabled collaboration. The brand prides itself on an everlasting reputation for insightful care—one that welcomes all people across all countries and cultures, generation after generation. For more information, please visit hyatt.com
In The News – Sage Leaf restaurant opens second location in Reno
March 11, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 3/11/2026, Written by Robert Galloway
An established Incline Village-area restaurant has expanded into Reno, bringing a familiar menu and a larger dining space to the city’s Midtown district.
Shane and Lara Hammett, owners of Sage Leaf, recently held their grand opening at their second location in Reno after searching for the right expansion opportunity for nearly two years. The move marks the restaurant’s first location outside Incline Village.
“We’ve been very blessed with the business that we have up there,” Shane said. “We have a very good team in place, and it gave us the opportunity to decide what we want to do next.”
In The News – Scientists gather at Lake Tahoe to protect the world’s largest trout
March 10, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 3/10/2026, Written by Maria Palma, KUNR Public Radio
Scientists from around the world gathered last week at the University of Nevada, Reno in Lake Tahoe to tackle a unique conservation challenge: how to protect the largest trout species on Earth.
At the Tahoe City Marina, scientists from around the world prepared to board a research boat on Lake Tahoe. It was a sunny afternoon, but on the water, the air was still cold.
The boat, named Liberty, is part of the research fleet used by scientists at UNR. It helps researchers collect data, study water clarity and monitor conditions in the lake. A second, larger research boat with space for up to 15 people is expected to arrive this September.
In The News – Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 ‘Best Hotels’ awards
March 10, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 3/10/2026, Staff Report
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, an award-winning resort nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of North Lake Tahoe, has earned recognition in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Hotels Awards. The resort has received the Gold Badge ranking in the prestigious award program.
“We are honored to receive this distinguished recognition from U.S. News & World Report,” said Andrew DeLapp, Resort Manager at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino. “This award reflects the breathtaking beauty of our Lake Tahoe setting, as well as the dedication of our team who consistently delivers exceptional service and memorable experiences for every guest.”
The U.S. News & World Report Best Hotels rankings evaluate properties based on a variety of criteria including awards, hotel class, and guest ratings. The Gold Badge is exclusively awarded to the top 20 percent of the highest-rated luxury resorts and hotels. This year’s Best Hotels rankings evaluate more than 31,000 hotels across the United States, Europe, Bermuda, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. For more information on the methodology, visit https://travel.usnews.com/methodology/#hotel-rankings.
On May 7, from morning to evening at the Tahoe Blue Event Center, Tahoe’s broader regional community will come together for a dynamic economic, networking, and civic experience unlike any other.
This year, the Tahoe Economic Summit, hosted by the Tahoe Prosperity Center, joins forces with the Tahoe Chamber’s Go Local Business Expo—uniting the business sector, community leaders, and residents in one vibrant, high-impact environment designed for connection and opportunity.
The day begins with the 2026 Tahoe Economic Summit, setting the tone with forward-looking insight into the macroeconomic forces shaping our region. Through keynote speakers and interactive sessions, participants will gain practical, actionable perspectives on workforce, small business growth, and environmental innovation in the Tahoe Basin.
Then, the momentum continues as doors open to the Go Local Business Expo—Lake Tahoe’s largest and most energized business showcase and community celebration of the year.
Inside the Tahoe Blue Event Center, 125+ local businesses and 1,500+ participants will create an atmosphere filled with conversation, discovery, and engagement.
Culinary tastings, beverage samplings, vendor swag, and a high-energy environment will bring the community together in a meaningful way.
Tahoe Forest Health System is seeking input from community members to help guide the hospital’s direction in the years ahead. TFHS wants to hear your thoughts about healthcare priorities, access to care, and what health and wellness means to you.
“Tahoe Forest Health System was built by the people of this region,” said Anna Roth, president and CEO. “True North continues that tradition. This initiative is about listening first and building the future together.”
TFHS invites residents, patients, second homeowners, partners and staff to complete a brief online survey, attend a listening session or connect at community events throughout the region this winter and spring.
In The News – Tahoe Forest Health System launches ‘True North’ Listening Tour
March 10, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 3/10/2026, Staff Report
Tahoe Forest Health System is launching a listening tour this spring as part of its new True North initiative, a comprehensive community engagement effort aimed at shaping the organization’s future direction. This outreach initiative invites feedback from residents, patients, second homeowners, partners and staff to help guide TFHS’s next strategic plan.
As part of this effort, TFHS will host a series of community meet-ups across the region to hear directly from those it serves.
“We want to listen and learn from our community about what matters most when it comes to healthcare,” said Tahoe Forest Health System Chief Executive Officer Anna Roth. “Access to care, quality of services and how we continue to improve are key areas where your input will make a difference. These events are an opportunity for open dialogue—and we’re excited to have those conversations in a relaxed, local setting.”
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Announces Day Passes for Year-Round Pool Access
March 9, 2026 | Member Submitted
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, an award-winning resort nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of North Lake Tahoe, announces new day pass opportunities for locals and visitors looking to enjoy a full day of relaxation at the resort.
“We are excited to offer day passes that allow guests to experience the best of Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe for a day of leisure and relaxation,” said Andrew DeLapp, Resort Manager at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino. “Whether guests are escaping for a few hours or spending the day by the pool, these passes provide convenient access to our resort amenities without requiring an overnight stay.”
Day pass holders can enjoy the resort’s heated lagoon-style, mountain-side pool offers a serene alpine retreat, with an indoor swim-out entrance that allows guests to glide between warm interiors and crisp mountain air and oversized hot tubs. poolside loungers, seasonal food and beverage service, changing rooms with showers, towels, and complimentary Wi-Fi and self-parking. Oversized jet spas, scenic mountain views, and ample lounge seating create a calm and inviting poolside experience year-round, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and a day of leisure in the Sierra Nevada.
For guests interested in a more regular wellness experience, Stillwater Spa offers a monthly membership, providing full access to the fitness center and spa facilities including locker rooms, plush robes and slippers, showers, dry cedar sauna, eucalyptus steam room, and the lounge area. Membership also includes one complimentary 3.5-minute cryotherapy session and a 10 percent discount on a 60-minute Swedish massage or Glow facial during the month.
For more information or to book a getaway to Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, please visit HyattRegencyLakeTahoe.com, or call (775) 832-1234.
About Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
Situated among the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the award-winning Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino offers a premier destination based in the nature-infused setting of North Lake Tahoe. The resort is home to an on-site Adventure program offering daily guided activities to help guests explore the Tahoe outdoors with everything from group hikes and archery classes to meditation sessions. Guests can enjoy premium amenities such as a year-round heated lagoon-style pool, two hot tubs, and a 25,000 square-foot Grand Lodge Casino. The resort also boasts the 20,000 square-foot Stillwater Spa featuring a variety of relaxing massages, facials and body treatments as well as state-of-the-art touchless therapies including the Cryobuilt Cryochamber, “Pearl” a revolutionary float orb, and the “Harmony” bioacoustic mat. The property showcases premier dining opportunities at the brand-new Osteria Sierra offering elevated Italian cuisine, pub-style fare at Cutthroat’s Saloon, and grab-and-go selections at Tahoe Provisions. Additional culinary delights include afternoon tea service on the weekends and a selection of world-class pastries created by the resort’s renowned team of pastry chefs. Recognized for excellence, the resort has garnered numerous awards including Travel + Leisure’s 500 Best Hotels in the World, Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best, Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Smart Meetings Smart Stars Awards, and U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotel Awards.
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, at 111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village, NV, 89451. For more information, visit HyattRegencyLakeTahoe.com or follow the resort on Facebook or Instagram.
About Hyatt Regency hotels
The Hyatt Regency brand is a global collection of hotels and resorts found in more than 200 locations in over 40 countries around the world. The depth and breadth of this diverse portfolio, from expansive resorts to urban city centers, is a testament to the brand’s evolutionary spirit. For more than 50 years, the Hyatt Regency brand has championed fresh perspectives and enriching experiences, while its forward-thinking philosophy provides guests with inviting spaces that bring people together and foster a spirit of community. As a hospitality original, Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts are founded on openness—our colleagues consistently serve with open minds and open hearts to deliver unforgettable celebrations, effortless relaxation and notable culinary experiences alongside expert meetings and technology-enabled collaboration. The brand prides itself on an everlasting reputation for insightful care—one that welcomes all people across all countries and cultures, generation after generation. For more information, please visit hyatt.com
It might be safe to say that Moses, the prophet, was the first reporter of record. When Moses received the Ten Commandments, well, this was some heavy news to deliver to an unsuspecting public. I can only imagine the reaction those Commandments might have had in France…“No adultery? Hey, I’m French!”
Moses lived to be 120 years old, an estimable age that all reporters strive for to this day, and continue to fall a little short.
Before newspapers came along in the early 17th century, potentates provided edicts that were circulated by a courier who would climb up onto a haystack and shout out the latest law. He would then describe the attending punishment should you decide to break that law -pillory being the customary sentence.
Paul Revere might well have been America’s first notable reporter. Revere and his noble ride would stand pretty much atop the notoriety polls until the arrival of Edward R. Murrow during World War II. Murrow delivered a live broadcast from Europe that was so compelling as to create an army of dedicated listeners to CBS Radio News.
One thing has changed dramatically over the decades. In Mark Twain’s day our legislators did their drinking, they did their gambling, they did their womanizing, yes. But they did it with the press. The day a reporter discovered he could sell his story to somebody else’s newspaper, well, legislators and journalists stopped drinking at the same watering holes.
News reporting, since its inception, has tried to answer the five W’s: who, what, when, where and why. Up until the 19th century, reporters tried to answer those five W’s with objectivity. Then William Randolph Hearst added a shade of color to the five W’s by introducing yellow journalism. Hearst fomented military adventurism in Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Philippines. When artist Frederic Remington cabled Hearst from Cuba in 1897, “There will be no war.” Hearst fired back, “You furnish the pictures and I’ll furnish the war.”
The 20th century gave birth to the tabloid: TWO HEADED BOY FOUND IN JUNGLE! And the paparazzi began gassing up their Vespas…
Then along came USA TODAY, the newspaper for people who found television news too complicated.
If your news outlet is owned by an entertainment company what do you expect to get? MSNBC and Fox were quick to learn that there was more money to be made in providing a shaped aggregate of news than there was to be made in providing boring facts. Competition in shaped television context would elevate news conglomerates from the fourth estate to the first estate. News reporting in America without political bias would become a thing almost impossible to find, even with a seasoned hunting dog.
I have to believe in closing, that the majority of the dedicated reporters we have today are some of the most decent, caring, committed public servants on the planet. Pat Hickey comes to mind. I for one take my hat off to them all, and close here with a low sweeping bow…
