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In The News – Incline Middle awaits STEM school designation decision

March 13, 2024 | Member Submitted

Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune 03/13/2024, written by Brenna O’Boyle

INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – Incline Middle School will find out by the end of March if it is one of the new schools to receive Nevada STEM school designation this cycle after a visit from the governor’s team last week.

“We are evaluating 20 schools across the state this cycle,” said Tracey Howard, STEM Program Director, Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation and Technology. “We are limited to 15 schools annually to receive the (new) designation. We were pleased to see how IMS is leveraging the community to enhance student learning experiences!”

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

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Lake Tahoe School’s Chess Team are State Champions!

March 11, 2024 | Member Submitted

Submitted by Allie Sacci from Lake Tahoe School

Calling all Bobcat fans: You might not have heard yet, but our very own Chess Team just aced their first year with a phenomenal win at the Nevada State Championship! Last weekend, a group of dedicated students and their families braved the elements to compete in Las Vegas.

For many of these young players, it was their first ever chess tournament. Despite just starting this year, our Chess Team brought home the 2024 NV State Champions title in the K-5 Reserve Division! This victory is even sweeter considering we faced some real competition. Our Bobcats were a small but mighty team, facing off against much larger teams. But that didn’t stop them! Every single player won at least one game (with some ties as well).

Here’s a breakdown of their incredible results:

K-3 Championship

Cal M. – Tied 6th on score, 7th on tiebreaks

Jaiden B. – Tied 24th on score, 25th on tiebreaks

Alex L. – Tied 24th on score, 29th on tiebreaks

Nicholas B. – Tied 39th on score, 40th on tiebreaks

Reya B. – Tied 39th on score, 41st on tiebreaks

K-5 Reserve

Eric I. – Undisputed State Champion!

Alora H. – Tied 3rd on score, 4th on tiebreaks

Abby I. – Tied 5th on score, 8th on tiebreaks

Max G. – Tied 18th on score, 19th on tiebreaks

Jameson H. – Tied 18th on score, 21st on tiebreaks

K-12 Reserve

Acadia H. – Tied 1st place, 2nd on tiebreaks

Kora O. – Tied 5th on score, 5th on tiebreaks

Putting together this championship team in less than a year is a true accomplishment. Huge thanks to Coach Eric for his dedication in leading these amazing students to victory, with support from Mr. Jude and Coach Anastasia.

Here’s a fun fact: out of all the trophies awarded in the lower grade divisions, three of the four girls who won were on our Chess Team – Acadia, Kora, and Alora! Looks like our Bobcats have some girl power on the board. And the good news keeps coming! These talented young players will get to compete again at the Girls’ State Championship right here in Duffield Hall on Saturday, April 20th.

We can’t wait to cheer them on! Congratulations to the Lake Tahoe School Chess Team for this incredible win! Go Bobcats!

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Local Spotlight – Nellie Bradshaw-Farafonova – Crystal Bay Post Office

January 2, 2024 | Meghan Ochs

Originally Published in IVCBA Live.Work.Play, Written by Meghan Ochs

Nellie Bradshaw-Farafonova is the senior, and only, passport clerk at the Crystal Bay Post Office. Nellie and her job have a lot in common, on the surface both might seem ordinary in a lovely, predictable way, perhaps even a bit outdated in today’s modern digital world. However, it turns out, her job, just as Nellie herself, is a lot more complicated than meets the eye. 

Nellie moved to Incline Village in 94’ with her second husband and their then, two young children. Today, she lives in Crystal Bay and the years between tell an interesting story about a unique woman. 

She began what she calls her ‘second career’, the one outside of raising her children, at The Hyatt as a hostess.  She soon became supervisor and moved onto the Regency Club and became a concierge manager. In early 2002, she made a big change and moved to Russia to teach English. The move was precipitated by both her divorce in 2001 and 9/11 which impacted tourism. Nellie loved her time and experiences in Moscow, but despite having a multi entry exit visa and visiting on occasion, she desperately missed her children. Listening to Nellie discuss her time in Russia it’s obvious that her time away fed her naturally adventurous spirit. While there, she earned good money to send back to her children and married her third husband who was Russian. In 2005 she came back to Tahoe and was devastated when soon thereafter her marriage ended. However, Nellie’s palpable tenacity kicked in. Nellie started what would become a long term career with The United States Post Office. 

Hard work and adaptability seem to come easily to Nellie which is incredibly useful in her role at USPO. The office at Crystal Bay is actually under the jurisdiction of The State Department in Los Angeles and is unique in the number of passports it processes. Prior to COVID, 65-70 a month were processed, now, Nellie and her single member staff, do over 1600 in a 6 month period. People come by multiple travel modalities to get to Nellies office for complicated travel cases. Nellie has an amicable nature that lends well to customer service and she loves all who visit. She notes that her job requires a lot of patience due to the long term nature of acquiring passports. She often encounters angry and disgruntled people.  However, she still builds lots of positive personal relationships. She can rattle off names and addresses the same way people remember land line phone numbers. Nellie has obvious, high level people skills. 

The Post Office in 2023 might seem irrelevant. Something similar could theoretically, and wrongly, be assumed about Nellie. As a short statured 68 year old woman, she seems quiet and unassuming. Nellie has the appearance of a young and kind grandmother. Talking to Nellie you quickly learn that both of these assumptions about her, and the place she works, are far from the truth. Nellie is anything but quiet, or tame. She is sweet and kind yes, but an emotionally strong, unique woman who forged her own path and collected a lot of stories of adventure, hard work, and heartbreak. As for the place she works, it doesn’t take long to learn how truly important the services she provides really are. Nellie and the Crystal Bay Post Office provide services and basic needs to individuals and families that many take for granted. There seem to be a lot of unspoken parallels between Nellie and her work, perhaps this is why she loves it.  Nellie hopes to stay in her current role for awhile longer. She thinks about retirement from her 6 days a week, 10 to 12 hours a day, job but knows it doesn’t make sense until she becomes a grandparent, or finds a new partner. For now, for the benefit of local residents and wannabe travelers, Nellie will be behind the counter at Crystal Bay in the signature USPO light blue shirt, and navy apron, with her big smile and warm heart, greeting all those who walk through the door. 

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Pet Network and Local Photographer Nina Miller Team Up To Help Animals Find Forever Homes

November 3, 2023 | Member Submitted

As we’re heading into the cold season and enjoy snuggling up on a comfy couch, perhaps by a crackling fire, we’re inclined to think about ways to spread some warmth.

Pet Network Lake Tahoe and long-time local photographer Nina Miller with Nina · Photography have teamed up to help more animals find a loving, caring forever home by raising funds for Pet Network’s animal rescue programs. Book a pet portrait session this fall, and the full session fee will be donated to Pet Network. Share the love and gratitude you have for your own pet and help other animals find a cozy spot to curl up! 

Is your pet the bestest, cutest, quirkiest, sweetest?

Come into the studio in Kings Beach and let’s bring out your furry friend’s personality. If you have more than one, bring them all! The focus is on your pet with minimalist, gorgeous portraits. We can include you or your kids in some photos as well, of course. Feel free to bring props — like a favorite toy, bandana, or holiday themed items for holiday cards.

A win for you, a win for animals in need

To showcase your beloved companion, you can purchase wall art, albums, holiday cards, and more from gorgeous, timeless photos you will love. Plus, your pet will be featured on a dedicated web page!

Holiday spirit with a purpose 

Pet Network-branded holiday cards will be available if you’d like to give even more! In the spirit of the season, 20% of the proceeds from these cards will be donated to Pet Network Lake Tahoe.

Come be a part of this collaboration where your pet takes center stage, and your support enriches the lives of animals in need. Book your session today!

About Pet Network Lake Tahoe

Pet Network Humane Society enables pets and people to connect and thrive through compassionate care, envisioning a society where all companion animals receive love and respect as valued members of families and communities.

Pet Network is a 501(3)c charitable organization (EIN: 94-3162646) that relies entirely on 501(c)3 tax-exempt donations from people like you to continue its life-saving mission.

About Nina · Photography

When not behind the camera, Nina loves to travel, in particular with her teenage son back to her native Germany and around Europe. Though she doesn’t have a furry companion of her own, she often dogsits. Her current pet is a leopard gecko.

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In The News – Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation awards nearly $300k in grants to local nonprofits

September 14, 2023 | Member Submitted

Originally Published in The Tahoe Daily Tribune 9/14/2023, Submitted

INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – The Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation announced that it has granted nearly $300,000 from its Community Fund to nonprofit organizations serving the Lake Tahoe basin in 2023, thanks to their donor community. 

Each year, the Foundation offers competitive Community Fund grants to nonprofit organizations. These grants allow nonprofit organizations to request the support they need to better serve the Tahoe Region and focus on the Community Foundation’s five focus areas: well-being, education, arts and culture, environment, and community engagement. 

Each year, the Community Impact Committee, which is comprised of volunteer members from the community, review each grant proposal and award the most impactful opportunities.  

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Water Safety at Lake Tahoe

August 8, 2023 | Member Submitted

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is warning of an increased risk of water rescues at Lake Tahoe due to the cold water temperatures. The water temperature at Lake Tahoe is currently 67 degrees, which is considered cold water. Cold water can quickly lead to cold water shock, swim failure, and hypothermia, which can be deadly.

“We have already responded to several water rescues this summer,” said NLTFPD Fire Chief Ryan Sommers. “We want to remind everyone to be aware of the dangers of cold water and to take precautions to stay safe.”

Here are some water safety tips for Lake Tahoe:

  • Always wear a life jacket. A life jacket is your best protection against drowning in cold water.
  • Enter the water slowly and feet first. Cold water shock can cause a powerful gasp reflex, which can make it difficult to breathe.
  • Never swim alone. Have a friend or family member with you in case you need help.
  • Check the weather forecast for wind conditions. Strong winds can make it difficult to swim and boat.
  • Be aware of the red flag warning status. A red flag warning indicates high fire danger, which can also make water rescue more difficult.
  • File a float plan. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

Here are some additional tips for staying safe in cold water:

  • Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Wear a wetsuit or other appropriate clothing to stay warm.
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs. Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and coordination, making it more difficult to stay safe in cold water.
  • Know your limits. If you are not a strong swimmer, do not go into the water alone.
  • Be prepared for anything. The weather can change quickly at Lake Tahoe, so be prepared for anything.

The NLTFPD is committed to keeping our community safe. If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 911 immediately.

  • Contact: Tia Rancourt                                                                                        
  • Public Education/Information Officer
  • North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District                                      
  • trancourt@nltfpd.net
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Why a James Beard Award-winning chef opened a restaurant in a Tahoe bowling alley

May 15, 2023 | Member Submitted

Originally published in the SF Gate on 5/14/2023. Written by Andrew Pridgen.

As temperatures rise, snow continues to melt and days grow longer, the last place you might think of planning your Tahoe trip around is a bowling alley — but that would mean missing out on one of the lake’s newest and most notable pieces of paradise, straight from Hawaii.

A vintage holdover from the mid-1960s, Incline Village’s Bowl Inclinerecently underwent a complete overhaul. It now features refurbished and illuminated bowling lanes, a new bar, a fully stocked arcade and pool room, giant flat screen TVs, outdoor dining and games, event spaces, and even an ax-throwing range in a welcoming 17,239-square-foot facility.

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Casey Jennings & Lake Tahoe Volleyball Academy

April 12, 2023 | John Crockett

Launched in 2022, the Lake Tahoe Volleyball Academy led by local coaches Casey Jennings and Tacy Kelly provides a club team experience for local female athletes seeking to develop skills on and beyond the court.  The academy is the first club team in North Lake Tahoe and is a chance for Casey to pass on his decades of elite team and beach volleyball experience to a new generation of athletes.  

While local middle and high schools field volleyball teams, the school season is a sprint of just over 2 months, limiting practice time and competition.  After coaching the Incline High team with Tacy and observing their progress and potential, they saw the need for a local club team.  

Casey says the coaching he received as a teen had the most impact on his future success.  And that is what motivated him to start LTVA and work with youth.  “I’m so excited to give back to that age group.  The time is right and I’m excited for the future.”

A native Nevadan, Casey began playing team volleyball in his hometown of Las Vegas.  Spending summers in Incline, he and his brother would play on the sand at Ski Beach from morning until dusk.  As part of a state championship team, he credits high school coach Bob Kelly with instilling the discipline and accountability that set him on a path to future success.  

“I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to thank him enough for the lessons he taught me,” says Jennings.  “I don’t think I would be where I am today, making a living and traveling the world, without him.  Now it’s my turn to pass those lessons on.” 

Jennings’s resume includes winning a Junior College Championship at Golden West Juior Colege, the 1999 NCAA National Championship at Brigham Young University, an international gold and several silver and bronze medals on the FIVB World Tour, seven Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) beach volleyball tournament wins, and AVP accolades including Best Defensive and Most Improved Player awards.  

Last fall, Casey and Tacy held well-attended tryouts and fielded teams for three different age groups.  The club competes throughout the region with the season culminating in late April at the Far West Qualifiers in Reno.  The LTVA staff is complemented by coach Grace Hubrig who works with the under 13 and 14 teams and manager Ryan Shuff.     

The LTVA coaches want to instill fundamentals in their players but also the importance of a sport, school, and life balance.  “If you don’t come to practice because you have piano lessons, school work, or another sport, tell your parents, ‘Good job.’  Stay involved in multiple activities because it makes their approach to volleyball that much better,” says Jennings.  The coaches can also leverage their expertise by bringing in specialists in yoga, footwork, and nutrition.   

“Casey is big at teaching life lessons,” says Shuff, a friend of Casey’s for 35 years.  “He is so impactful on these girls that they will remember the skills and mindset they are learning for the rest of their lives.  The coaches work so well together and provide a great experience for the team.”

Nevada is home for Casey and his wife Kerri Walsh Jennings, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, and they are raising their three children in Incline Village.  With all of his experience, Casey must know what makes a great team work.  “It’s all about trust.  Every student athlete will miss a practice here and there.  As a coach, you know the commitment by the consistency of showing up,” which leads to team success both on and off the court.  

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Member Profile – Rosie Webber & The Sanctuary Tahoe

April 10, 2023 | John Crockett

Step into The Sanctuary Tahoe, a community wellness center on Stateline Road in Kings Beach, and you can feel your pulse lower.  The two-story wood frame building has been a yoga and massage studio for many years but the energy and vision of new owner Roseanna “Rosie” Webber is what transforms the space into something unique.  “You immediately feel this warmth of positive energy…as you embark on a journey inward,” says Yoga Manager Brooke Haley.    

The Sanctuary provides a full range of services and experiences including yoga, massage, esthetics, and acupuncture.  But Rosie’s integrative approach to wellness combines her health and nutrition expertise with mindset counseling, homeopathy, and leadership training.  What starts as a yoga class or massage is the first step on a personal journey to wellness.  

“What I really want is people feeling what I feel in the Sanctuary and have been for twenty years.  The greatest compliment is when someone says, ‘The minute I walk in here, I can feel it.’”

Rosie first came to The Sanctuary as a massage customer before offering health and wellness coaching part-time.  Following her retirement after nearly 40 years as a surgical nurse and a desire to see The Sanctuary re-emerge following the pandemic, Rosie took the leap to acquire the business.  

“This is what I really love and my vision is to bring more wellness to the community.”

With deep experience in the medical field, it wasn’t until a breast cancer diagnosis in 2014 that Rosie fully embraced integrative medicine.  “I’m 8 years cancer free but this journey led to becoming certified in health and nutrition coaching.  We can live such a better life through diet and exercise.  I had many reasons to take my health into a broader space.”    

A New York City transplant that arrived in Lake Tahoe in 1990, Rosie and the Webber family, proprietors of The Village Pub, are well-known in the community.  She even teases a possible mayoral run if the opportunity presents itself.  You may also see Rosie at Azzara’s Restaurant where she has been waiting tables for 29 years.  “I keep trying to leave but it’s family.”  

“She is a pillar in the Lake Tahoe community,” says Haley.  “She is one of the hardest working women I’ve ever known and truly leads by example.  She is always available to support each and every one of her staff, students and clients,” including hosting the staff for a monthly “sangha” or gathering.

The Sanctuary offers yoga classes across all levels seven days a week.  Try the signature Vinyasa Flow or a Slow Flow and Stretch après ski.  Other new offerings include yomassage, a full body massage and yoga class all in one, as well as sound healing workshops.  This summer Rosie will once again expand classes beyond the Sanctuary with yoga on the beach at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe.  An introductory special for locals features unlimited classes over 30 days for $75.     

The Sanctuary will also soon offer yoga for those undergoing or in remission from cancer treatment.  During her treatment, she remembers being desperate to stay in yoga classes.  “I came out of class upset rather than rejuvenated, I was crying because I couldn’t do it.”  Rosie recently became the first certified instructor in the area and the program uses modifications and props to accommodate students.

With the support of family and friends and her network of wellness professionals, Rosie has learned much from her journey.  “If you can take something positive and give that to other people, then you should.  One person can change things and that’s what I’m trying to do here in this community.“

Get the latest updates on the schedule and offers by signing up for The Sanctuary’s newsletter thesanctuarytahoe.com.

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In the News: Lake Tahoe’s Conservation Continues (Opinion)

January 23, 2023 | Grace Hubrig

Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune on 1/20/23. Written by Julie Regan.

The recent glimpses of clear skies, frosted forests, and Lake Tahoe’s mesmerizing blue hues have a way of perfectly framing nature’s power and beauty. Amidst a series of no less than nine extreme storm systems, we find ourselves simultaneously grateful for the abundance of snow and belittled by the size of the berms.

The need to double down on the Tahoe region’s climate action strategies could not be more urgent. Increasingly extreme weather events will continue to hit the Sierra – from mega droughts to atmospheric rivers. These and other impacts of climate change may have you questioning what strategies are in place to conserve Tahoe’s beloved communities and environment into the future? From modernizing land use policies to improving water quality and treating our overstocked forests, many of the solutions for tomorrow are built on Tahoe’s complicated legacy.

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