In The News – As summer arrives, beaches take steps to Keep Tahoe Blue
July 1, 2025 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 07/01/2025, Staff Report
Building on last summer’s success in reducing litter at Lake Tahoe beaches following busy holidays, Keep Tahoe Blue is expanding its Tahoe Blue Beach program around the Lake in 2025. Kings Beach, the Tahoe Beach Club, Camp Richardson Resort, and Meeks Bay Resort join Zephyr Cove Resort in raising the bar for environmentally friendly beach management in Tahoe. These Tahoe Blue Beaches are taking steps to make responsible, Lake-friendly recreation the easy and obvious choice for everyone who comes to the beach.
“Through the Tahoe Blue Beach program, our guests last summer enjoyed a clean, pristine beach and they did their part to keep it that way,” said Kevin Schiesz, Tahoe District Manager for Aramark Destinations, the concessionaire for Zephyr Cove Resort. “That’s the beauty of this program. Our staff worked together with Keep Tahoe Blue and the Forest Service to create an experience where taking care of the beach — while you enjoy it — just feels natural.”
Tahoe’s beaches are a playground for hundreds of thousands of people each summer. All that attention can have impacts on the shoreline’s health and beauty. The Tahoe Blue Beach program is a first-of-its-kind beach management initiative that brings together land managers, concessionaires, businesses, nonprofits, and the local community to protect the environment and everyone’s lakeside experience.
Some attribute my everlasting immaturity to the fact that I’m the son of an optometrist, and so it’s no surprise that I’m always making a spectacle of myself. However, having immersed myself in the writings of Mark Twain for half a century, I am now a recovering spectacle. Yes, if I can bring a smile to a stranger’s face with a spoken word, well, that’s what I’m here to do. The humorist is not looking for a laugh; the humorist is looking for the hint of a smile, or a nod of acknowledgement, for at bottom, all humorists are calling for action…
On September 18th, 1943, inside Providence Hospital, Washington D.C., Barbara Layne gave one herculean push and heard, “I’m here! Got anything to eat?” Providence had it that I would have loving parents, quarreling siblings, a superior wife, a smart son, and three cute grandkids, all of whom have brought light into the life of this lifeguard, SAE, Marine, Never Sweat, and impressionist of Mark Twain…
Now it remains my goal, with the little time I have left, to bring a lasting peace to our torrid world. I have sent letters to presidents Putin and Zelenski offering to help our State Department broker a truce, and am patiently waiting for a reply. Meanwhile, we turn our eyes and hearts to the Middle East. I for one refuse to exit this planet until we have ceased waring on one another while attempting to promote monarchial, theocratic and political postures. And if the Middle East doesn’t cool down, I might just have to haul my Marine Corps uniform out of the closet and command that everybody chill, or they might have to deal with Corporal Night Train Layne.
A little more humor, a little more music, a few more smiles, more dancing, more charity, more kindness, and BINGO, we’ve got ourselves a vigorous and enduring environment…
In closing I would like to suggest that we all pen, on our 80th birthdays, a personal one-page autobiography. Future readings will serve to advance human understanding and tolerance. And should you elect to start your one-page autobiography at age forty, and revise it as you steam mightily and jauntily along, well, that’s an excellent first step. Here’s to chronicling your examined life!
Your friend in history where facts are not essential,
As Independence Day approaches, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District reminds residents and visitors that fireworks are illegal in the Tahoe Basin—on all public and private property, including U.S. Forest Service land. This includes all consumer fireworks, even those labeled “safe and sane,” brought in from outside the area.
Possession or use of fireworks is subject to civil and criminal penalties in Washoe County, Douglas County, and Carson City.
Leave fireworks to the professionals! Catch one of these approved public displays on Friday, July 4:
Recreational wood or charcoal fires in screened, non-combustible containers require a permit and are not allowed at short-term rentals.
Gas, pellet, and charcoal grills are allowed—use safely and never leave them unattended.
No open flames on Red Flag Warning days.
Fireworks pose significant risks—fires, burns, injuries, and even death. Those responsible for fireworks use are liable for any resulting fires, injuries, or property damage. To dispose of fireworks safely and legally, you may turn them in to any local fire station at any time without penalty.
Beyond personal risk, illegal fireworks strain emergency resources and endanger our community. Help reduce preventable incidents—do not use consumer fireworks. Learn more about fireworks safety at nfpa.org.
Celebrate Maestro James Rawie’s 20th Annual Summer MusicFest with Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra & Chorus in the Red, White & Blue Salute To America- with Broadway, Opera & Patriotic Songs
June 29, 2025 | Member Submitted
Maestro James Rawie founded TOCCATA Tahoe Symphony twenty years ago. Today Maestro Rawie will delight you with our Tahoe Red White & Blue series of Patriotic Songs, a bit of Broadway and a dash of opera all performed by Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus. We help you celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends close to home! This annual Red White and Blue Salute to America concert that Maestro Rawie has conducted for 20 years is a delightful summer event that we perform in two venues at the Lake and in Reno. Revel in full orchestra and chorus performances of patriotic favorites, join in a sing-along, and, if you’re the highest bidder, conduct the orchestra in The Stars and Stripes Forever!
Get the most bang for your buck with this concert that truly has something for everyone, and brings the music practically to your door. Show your true patriotic colors with the Armed Forces Medley (audience members from all branches of the services are honored), orchestra-chorus versions of the Battle Hymn of the Republic and God Bless America, an audience sing-along of America the Beautiful, and, of course, The Stars and Stripes Forever (will you be the conductor?).
Take a sip of classical music with Beethoven’s finale to his choral fantasy which preceeded the great 9th Symphony Ode to Joy, or tap your toes to the Great Western Medley, and hear our brass choir dazzle you with sounds from Dvorak’s 9thSymphony “Going Home”. A solemn moment gives you time to reflect with our perennial favorite, John Williams Hymn to the Fallen.
Anyone who enjoys beautiful singing will love the duets and solos by our gifted operatic soloists Anne Davidson, Debbie Sessions, Lorelei van Peborgh and Stuart Duke. The tutti finale is a toast to wine and good living with Verdi’s Brindis from La Traviata. Raise your own glasses in joy and friendship !
Tickets are $30 for adults or $40 for preferred seating/$15 youth; youth under 23 are free in general seating: Premium “front and center” seats are $50 for adults, $25 for youth. Limited seating in the Founder’s Circle is $100 and will have special treats. Seniors enjoy a discount in all seating areas. Lawn seating is $15, bring your chairs and picnic basket. Please reserve your space online.
WHERE and WHEN:
Wed…….. July 2…….. 7pm….. INCLINE:……………………………….. St. Francis Church • 701 Mt. Rose Highway
Sunday…. July 6…….. 4pm …. TAHOE CITY:…………………. NorthLake Tahoe High School- 2945 Polaris Road
These concerts are made possible in part by generous gifts from Heidimarie Rochlin, Kevan and Susan Lesch, Dennis & Dianne DeCuir and 2 anonymous benefactors.
For additional information, please call 775-298-6989;
In The News – Trash to Treasure returns: Local students transform bear boxes into public art in year two of eco-inspired project
June 27, 2025 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 06/27/2025, Staff Report
Now in its second year, Trash to Treasure returned with a creative new twist: turning Incline Village’s bear boxes into vibrant canvases that celebrate art, environmental stewardship, and community spirit. Spearheaded by Incline Middle School teacher Ginny Holmes, local artist Alison Lee and in collaboration with the Incline Education Fund (IEF), the project aims to create public art that makes an impact.
This year, the initiative expanded to design a mural arts project, where students combined environmental research with creative expression to design murals on bear boxes throughout Incline Village. Collaborating closely with the Incline Village General Improvement District (IVGID), students included interpretive signage to accompany each mural to educate the public about local ecological issues and promote responsible recreation around Lake Tahoe. As part of the process, students presented their concepts to a panel of IVGID staff, gaining real-world experience in communication, design approval, and civic engagement.
In The News – Forest Service proposes rollback of 25 year rule protecting lands that includes portions of Tahoe
June 26, 2025 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 06/26/2025, Written by Katelyn Welsh
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced Monday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture intends to rescind a rule that has prohibited new roads and timber harvest on 30% of National Forest System lands, including portions in the Truckee-Tahoe basin.
“The intent of the 2001 Roadless Rule is to provide lasting protection for inventoried roadless areas within the National Forest System in the context of multiple-use management,” the USDA Forest Service’s website states. Not only does the rule prohibit new roads and timber harvest on these areas, it keeps them open for a range of recreational activities, including climbing, hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and backcountry skiing.
These inventoried roadless areas constitute close to a quarter (23%) of Forest Service-Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit lands and a combined 80,000-plus acres on Tahoe National Forest and Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit forest, according to maps on the Forest Service’s website.
Launching on July 10 and running through September 18, the “Tunes on Tap” series will take place on Thursday evenings at the Alibi Amphitheater at the Incline Public House, giving all Alibi Ale Works patrons a pre-weekend celebration filled with live music, craft brews, and the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe.
“There’s nothing like hearing Tahoe artists with the lake in the background and a local Tahoe beverage in hand,” said Andy Chapman, president & CEO of Travel North Tahoe Nevada (TNTNV). “We’re proud to partner with Alibi Ale Works again to offer both visitors and locals a memorable way to enjoy our mountain culture.”
In The News – Nevada State Parks seeks public input for the Spooner Lake & Backcountry State Park Master Plan
June 25, 2025 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 06/25/2025, Staff Report
The Nevada Division of State Parks is seeking the public’s input on Spooner Lake & Backcountry State Park for the development of a new park master plan. The intent of this master planning effort is to provide a comprehensive management strategy for the state park over the next 20 years.
Spooner Lake & Backcountry State Park welcomes approximately 100,000 visitors annually. The park spans over 12,000 acres and features over 60 miles of trails, numerous historic sites, and vital wildlife habitat. The master plan will aim to best balance the increasing recreational demands of the park with preservation of natural and cultural resources.
To support this planning effort, Nevada State Parks has launched an interactive StoryMap to provide information on the existing conditions of the park. Nevada State Parks encourages the public to explore the StoryMap and share their feedback by completing the online survey, which will help guide the development of the Spooner Lake & Backcountry Master Plan. Public input is critical to the development of a successful plan.
The Local Lens – LIVE.WORK.PLAY Magazine and the IVCBA Digital Map are Here!
June 25, 2025 | Linda Offerdahl
It’s here! The summer edition of LIVE.WORK.PLAY! Watch for it in your mailbox or find it in various newsstands throughout Incline Village. This is IVCBA’s seasonal magazine. The centerfold has the schedule for all of the events happening in the Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration. Since the Weekly SnapShot comes out on Wednesday afternoon, I am going to make a plug for attending the two events next Wednesday, July 2…and you can attend both because they are sequential! Have an early “beer and brats” supper and a bucolic summer afternoon at Summerfest. This is Incline Tahoe Foundation’s fundraiser and supports their myriad programs, including Inclined to Bloom’s “pots and plants”. Right after Summerfest, is the Tahoe Phil’s patriotic songs concert at St. Francis. This concert will move you to tears and make you want to sing along.
Did I mention that July 3rd is the day for the NLTFPD pancake breakfast, Local Heroes Parade, and Community Fair?!
This is the week for decorating the town and the parade route, which is along Southwood and Incline Way toward the Village Green. The Good Neighbors committee of realtors, Rotary, the Visitor Center, IVCBA, and volunteers are to be thanked for putting up the flags, Local Heroes signs, and other patriotic décor.
LOCAL HEROES 4TH OF JULY SPONSORS
All events and organizations involved are listed on IVCBA.org. I want to give a special shout-out to the organizations that start meeting in February to plan for the celebration next week:
IVCBA, NLTFPD, WCSO, TNTNV, Incline Tahoe Foundation, IVGID, IV/CB Vets Club, Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline, and of course, Incline Fireworks! Other event sponsors include Tahoe Phil, DPSEF(bike parade). Thanks to everyone IN the parade and in the community fair.
IVCBA DIGITAL MAP – ‘VIBEMAP’
It can be difficult to find things in Incline Village. Considering that Tahoe Blvd is also Highway 28, our businesses have a challenge in having adequate signage. I assure you, they want to be found! IVCBA and TNTNV(Visitor Center) have teamed up to provide you with two maps:
1. The IVCBA Digital Map in partnership with VibeMap, is online and includes all the business information, from location, bio, address, contacts & social media accounts. You can search by the type of place you are looking for: wellness, food, retail, services, etc. or by the name of the business.
2. There is also the updated Merchant Map, soon to be at the Visitor Center and throughout town at our merchants.
SAFETY FIRST!
The recent tragic boating accident reminds us that freak accidents do happen, and extra caution is needed. If you are new to the area, on an e-bike or swimming in the Lake for the first time, consider if this activity is one for which you have the skills and the awareness. Read warnings and signs carefully. Motorists, be kind and share the road with bikes!
LIKE WHAT YOU READ?
IVCBA is the Community and Business Association that promotes our local businesses and nonprofits, organizes community events, and produces the Weekly SnapShot! If you are a subscriber and regular reader, please join as a Community Supporter for $50. If you are not a subscriber, do for free! Go to IVCBA.org. We are financially supported by our local agency “investors”, and our business community and residents. Please help!JOIN HERE
Clearing the Way: How Mastication Machines Help Protect Tahoe from Wildfire
June 24, 2025 | Member Submitted
Forest fuel reduction projects happening throughout the Tahoe Basin this year are using a tool known as mastication around communities to connect fuel treatment projects and bolster defensible space within the wildland urban interface. The Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team (TFFT) is highlighting several of these projects to educate residents and visitors about work they might be seeing in and around Lake Tahoe communities this year, and the crucial role mastication plays in helping firefighters protect people and the lake. The TFFT is a multi-agency partnership committed to reducing wildfire risk and improving forest health across the Tahoe Basin.
As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense, TFFT partners are using every tool available to reduce risk and protect communities. Mastication is one such tool, and it plays a key role in making forests more resilient. Mastication is a mechanical treatment that helps reduce wildfire intensity by grinding up small trees, brush, and woody debris into mulch. Specialized equipment, known as masticators, move through the forest and chip excess vegetation into chips that are spread around the treatment area as the equipment moves. Some masticators look like a compact tractor, while others are separate machines that attach to the arm of an excavator. Masticators clear out ladder fuels – those small trees and brush that allow fire to climb into the forest canopy – and help create defensible space around neighborhoods, roads, and critical infrastructure.
“Reducing flame lengths and limiting wildfire intensity provides critical time and space for firefighters to respond,” said Carrie Thaler, Fire Chief for the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. “We will continue to use every tool in our toolbox to reduce wildfire risk in the Tahoe Basin to protect our neighborhoods and communities.”
Mastication can stand alone as a treatment or complement other fuels reduction methods like thinning or prescribed fire. It is especially valuable in areas where burning isn’t practical, such as directly next to homes, recreation sites, or along busy roadways.
TFFT Partners Put Mastication to Work
The TFFT is prioritizing mastication projects across the Tahoe Basin this summer. These projects reflect the partnership’s focus on strategic, collaborative action to protect communities, critical infrastructure, and evacuation corridors. Recent and upcoming work includes:
Incline Village and Skyland – Targeted mastication to create defensible space within and around neighborhoods and reduce fuels within the wildland-urban interface.
Pioneer Trail Area – In South Lake Tahoe, TFFT partners are creating shaded fuel breaks, including a 200-foot-wide treatment near the Golden Bear neighborhood.
Elks Point and Nevada Beach – Continued mastication along high-use road corridors to prevent roadside ignitions and improve access for emergency response.
“Mastication is a strategic, cost-effective technique to help us protect Tahoe Basin communities,” said Annabelle Monti, TFFT Program Manager. “When integrated with other tools, it helps not only reduce the intensity of wildfires, but also gives firefighters safer, more effective conditions to work in if a fire does occur.”
Stay Informed
To explore fuels reduction projects happening across the Tahoe Basin, visit tahoelivingwithfire.com and view the interactive project map.
To receive updates when fuels reduction work is happening near you, sign up for the USDA Forest Service Fuels Reduction Notification List by emailing sm.fs.paltbmu@usda.gov.
Images
Image: Mini-Masticator_Amonti_crop
Caption: A compact masticator reducing brush that can act as a ladder fuel, carrying fire into the forest canopy. Credit: Annabelle Monti
Image: Masticator_USFS_CC4 (3)
Caption: A masticator clears roadside vegetation during a wildfire in Willamette NF, Oregon in 2023. Credit: U.S. Forest Service Flickr, CC 4.0
The Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team consists of representatives of Tahoe Basin fire agencies, CAL FIRE, Nevada Division of Forestry and related state agencies, University of California and Nevada Cooperative Extensions, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, the USDA Forest Service, conservation districts from both states, the California Tahoe Conservancy and the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board. Our mission is to protect lives, property, and the environment within the Lake Tahoe Basin from wildfire by implementing prioritized fuels reduction projects and engaging the public in becoming a Fire Adapted Community. For more information, visitTahoe Living With Fire.
