Latest Stories

Column: Winter knee injury and prevention

Winter weather is upon us, and for many of us living in the mountains, it brings alpine and backcountry skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. Other activities include ice skating, hockey, and snowshoeing. The importance of outdoor activities increases in winter — as getting outside not only has a profound effect on our physical health, but our mental health as well.

Night 15 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Friday night is the fifteenth night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is artist Kelly McDonald.

"Reading is magic. It takes you to a beautiful, faraway place wherever you want to go in your mind," said Kelly.

She's reading "The Secrets of Ireland" by Kevin Eyres.

Did you know that you could help reduce your holiday stress and cut tension in half by reading a book before bed?

Applications being accepted for UC Davis TERC Internships for Scholars Program

The UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center (TERC) has conducted research and monitoring of Lake Tahoe for over 50 years. Its Summer Internship program offers undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to be a part of the research tradition.

TRPA board approves policy changes to help address affordable housing crisis

LAKE TAHOE, Nev./Calif. - After three hours of public testimony on Wednesday, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) board voted to adopt policy changes to help address the housing crisis.

The package of affordable and workforce housing incentives to help address the housing crisis that is impacting not only Lake Tahoe's communities but also the environment. The targeted changes to Lake Tahoe zoning regulations will lower the cost of providing affordable and workforce housing, benefit water quality, and reduce traffic and vehicle use, according to TRPA.

Incline High School resource officers arrest suspect on child exploitation charges

INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. - A 20-year-old man has been arrested on multiple felony charges after an investigation by Incline Village school resource officers into suspected child exploitation.

On December 11, 2023, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned as school resource officers at Incline High School launched an investigation based on information provided by school administrators.

Former China Springs Youth Camp staff member arrested on suspicion of sexual conduct crimes

DOUGLAS COUNTY, NEV. - A former staff member at the China Springs Youth Camp has been arrested on alleged crimes of sexual conduct with children under her care.

On December 14, 2023, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) arrested 25-year-old Daryan Benka after an investigation. She was booked on two on two separate crimes of sexual conduct with children under the care, custody, and control of supervision of the Camp in violation of NRS 201.555. The crimes are category C felonies punishable by up to five years in prison for each offense and fines of up to $10,000.

The Jimmy Buffett lifestyle is evident throughout the new Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The State of California and the City of South Lake Tahoe now have a new welcoming resort on their border with Nevada.

It has been exactly 32 years to the day since Embassy Suites held its grand opening party in the same location. Now, after a $85M renovation, Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe has opened its doors after holding its own grand opening party on Thursday, December 14.

Living with bears around Lake Tahoe is a privilege that comes with year-round responsibilities

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – As everyone is in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it is not the season to let your guard down when it comes to living in or recreating responsibly in bear country.

The Tahoe Interagency Bear Team hopes this winter season brings you all lots of cheer, warm memories, and time for some rest and relaxation, they remind everyone it is important to keep in mind not all bears in the Lake Tahoe Basin will hibernate.

South Tahoe Association of Realtors Home of the Week

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - This week's Home of the Week winner from the South Tahoe Association of Realtors:

Listing Agents: Jesse Schue and Kaylin Culver
Listing Office: Re/Max Gold South Lake Tahoe

Property Address: 536 Gardner Street, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
MLS #: 139509

Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 3
Square Footage: 2,364 Sq Ft.
Price: $935,000

Everyone invited to run in South Tahoe High Track Team's Santa Fun Run

Event Date: 
December 16, 2023 - 11:30am

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The South Tahoe High School Track Team is getting into the holiday spirit and spreading holiday cheer by holding the inaugural Santa Fun Run on Saturday, December 16 at 11:30 a.m.

The students are holding the Fun Run as a fundraising event and members of the community can run, sponsor, or both! They hope that this run will become a holiday favorite for years to come, bringing the community together while making a positive impact.

Participants will be running a 2.5-mile course at South Tahoe Middle School.

Night 14 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Thursday night is the fourteenth night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is Boys & Girls Executive Director Jude Wood.

"I read every night before I go to bed. First to my son who is nine, and then for myself," said Jude. "Reading is how I relax, unwind, and indulge."

She's reading "The Dinosaur That Pooped Christmas" by Dougie Poynter and Tom Fletcher.

Did you know that you could help reduce your holiday stress and cut tension in half by reading a book before bed?

McNamaras donate vehicle to LTUSD for drivers training classes

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - It isn't every day that someone gives away a car, but that is exactly what happened Thursday at the Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) Board of Trustees meeting.

The trustees accepted the donation of a car to be used for the high school driver's training classes from locals Chris and Viktoria McNamara. They needed to get a larger car now that they are hosting an exchange student from Sweden, so they donated their 2015 Volvo V60 T5 AWD.

"We are big fans of this community," Chris told Superintendent Dr. Todd Cutler and the Board.

El Dorado County Sheriff's Office calls in the Lake Tahoe area

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - El Dorado County Sheriff's Office responds to calls throughout the county. The following calls only pertain to the South and West Shore, including Meyers, South Lake Tahoe, Meeks Bay, Tahoma, and the Echo Summit area. There may be some missing calls due to sheriff's logs not being completed at the time of the story.

December 7 - December 13, 2023

12/7

10:13 CIVIL INCIDENT - Officer initiated activity at Tallac Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA. Disposition: SERVED.

Tahoe Conservancy grants $1.2M to expand “Outdoors for All” at Lake Tahoe

During its meeting Thursday, the California Tahoe Conservancy (Conservancy) Board awarded four grants, totaling $409,000, to nonprofit organizations to improve equitable access to Lake Tahoe’s beaches, trails, and mountains, and $800,000 for the next stage of the Dennis T. Machida Memorial Greenway.

Optimist Tree Lot in South Lake Tahoe running short on trees - closing Sunday

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The South Lake Tahoe Optimist Club Christmas Tree Lot is almost out of trees and they will soon be closing.

With about 100 trees remaining as of Wednesday, they will close up shop for the season on Sunday at 6 p.m.

All proceeds from the tree sales go to support local youth.

The lot opens on weekdays at 12 p.m. and closes at 7 p.m., then weekends 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They are located in the Lakeview Commons parking lot on Harrison and Lakeview avenues.

Night 13 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Wednesday night is the thirteenth night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is Nikki Warren, owner and creator of KaiaFit.

Nikki is reading "Solve for Happy" by Mo Gawdat.

"I love to read because it warms me up from the inside out and helps me get ready for the day ahead," said Nikki.

Did you know that you could help reduce your holiday stress and cut tension in half by reading a book before bed? (Daytime isn't bad either!)

Partial lane closures at US50/Warrior Way Thursday as new traffic light activated

ZEPHYR COVE, Nev. - Expect brief lane closures on US50 at Warrior Way on Thursday, Dec. 14 as the Nevada Department of Transportation stripes the intersection and activates a new traffic signal to enhance traffic flow and safety.

The single-lane closures will take place between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. as crosswalks and stop bars are striped at the intersection. At least one lane in each direction will remain open at all times. Motorists should anticipate moderate travel delays and they are reminded to drive safely through the work zone.

Douglas County Sheriff's Office seeks two suspects in stolen credit card case

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Calif. - The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals suspected of using stolen credit cards earlier this month at the Target store in the northern end of the county.

On December 3, 2023, a male and female were captured on surveillance video using and attempting to use several credit cards from a stolen purse. The pair was able to purchase prepaid gift cards with the stolen credit cards.

They arrived and left the store in a white Cadillac Escalade SUV.

Santa arrives at Lake Tahoe Airport's Flightdeck on Saturday

Event Date: 
December 16, 2023 - 2:00pm

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The jolly guy in the red suit is ditching the reindeer Saturday and heading to the Flightdeck Bar & Grill at the Lake Tahoe Airport to spend time with the kids.

As the reindeer rest for the big trip around the world the following week, Santa Claus will arrive by helicopter at 2 p.m. on December 16 and head to the Flightdeck for some special one-on-one time with the kids who will be eagerly waiting to share their wish lists.

Every child will get to chat with Santa for perfect photo opportunities and they will each receive a small gift.

Giving Tree for Family Resource Center at Overland Meat & Seafood - they are matching monetary donations

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Overland Meat & Seafood Company of South Lake Tahoe is partnering with the Family Resource Center to make the holidays brighter for those community members in need.

There are a couple of ways to play Santa:

Adopt A Family - Stop by Overland and select a family's name from a tag on the Giving Tree. You'll receive a list of items they would appreciate.

Secondly, make a financial donation to the Family Resource Center and Overland Meats will match it.

Bass and Friedrich named South Lake Tahoe mayor and mayor pro tem

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The South Lake Tahoe City Council appointed the new mayor and mayor pro tem during its meeting on December 12. As expected, Cody Bass was voted in as mayor after serving a year as mayor pro tem, with Councilman John Friedrich moving up as mayor pro tem.

Night 12 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Tuesday night is the twelfth night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is Jason Collin, owner of PT Revolution and former mayor of South Lake Tahoe.

Jason is reading "Oh Say Can You Say?" by Dr. Seuss.

"I read for at least 10 minutes each night to get my head right, decrease stress, and set myself up for a great night of sleep," said Jason.

Did you know that you could help reduce your holiday stress and cut tension in half by reading a book before bed?

Black bear darting across Heavenly Ski Resort run gaining international attention

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - A skier on the Ridge Run at Heavenly Ski Resort on Sunday caught more than just the epic scenic views the run is famous for. TikTok user @Tao7570 caught the moment a bear darted across the run in between skiers and boarders on his phone Sunday, December 10, 2023.

It isn't uncommon for wildlife, bears included, to be seen around the ski resort and the rest of Lake Tahoe. The black bear population in the Lake Tahoe Basin numbers in the hundreds.

El Dorado County to transfer 2-1-1 services to Community Hubs

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. — To improve services to citizens, El Dorado County will cease operations of 2-1-1 on December 15, 2023. The decision was made after an in-depth evaluation of community needs and available County resources.

“2-1-1 has been a valuable resource for our residents by providing information and referrals to various social services, community programs, and resources," said Olivia Byron-Cooper, Health and Human Services Agency

Reflections of Lake Tahoe next for Minden Mill history series

Event Date: 
December 17, 2023 - 1:00pm

The History Lecture Series at Minden Mill Distilling continues on Sunday, December 17 with a presentation, Reflections of Lake Tahoe, at 1 p.m. Using seldom-seen vintage photos, historian David Woodruff takes a look back at the many people, places, and events that shaped the history of this magnificent Sierra Nevada gem over the years.

South Lake Tahoe Christmas Bird Count this Friday

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The annual South Lake Tahoe Christmas Bird Count is scheduled for this Friday, December 15.

The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) has been held worldwide every year, and in Lake Tahoe for almost 20 years. It is the largest and oldest citizen science project in the world. Each year, from December 14 through January 5, tens of thousands of volunteers head out into the winter to count birds for a day. This tradition goes back to 1900, and in the intervening years, these birders have built a database of bird populations that is unmatched by any other wildlife census.

Free Tahoe Learning Haven forum: Who are you as a learner?

Event Date: 
December 13, 2023 - 7:00pm

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The Tahoe Learning Haven is holding its next free event, Who are YOU as a learner?, on Wednesday, December 13 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe.

This free forum is about each of us as individuals and how we fit into a collective group - at school, at work, with friends, and even in our families. You will learn about YOU...how you perceive things, process things, and learn.

Jeremy Renner spreads holiday cheer to Nevada youth at inaugural RennerVation Foundation event

In a heartwarming initiative, the RennerVation Foundation, led by founder Jeremy Renner who lives part-time in the Mt. Rose area, delivered the enchantment of Christmas to 140 deserving youth. The inaugural RennerVation Christmas Celebration, held on December 9, 2023, in Virginia City, was a magical affair that was part of the town’s Christmas on the Comstock December events.

Alpine County School Board approves significant substitute teacher rates

ALPINE COUNTY, Calif. - During its December 8 meeting, the Alpine County School District Board voted a significant increase to its substitute teaching rates.

Before the meeting, the Alpine County rates were among the lowest in the region, but now, after the board's decision to help fill a big need, the rates are among the highest.

The high rates are intended to attract substitute teachers from South Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley.

Workforce housing incentives and code changes at Lake Tahoe topic of TRPA board hearing

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. - Breaking down barriers to building affordable housing at Lake Tahoe has been the focus of two years of public hearings, workshops, and presentations by Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) staff.

On Wednesday, they will be bringing forward proposed changes to policies in the Lake Tahoe Regional Plan that have become barriers to deed-restricted affordable and workforce housing.

5th annual Wreaths Across America ceremony in South Lake Tahoe

Event Date: 
December 16, 2023 - 9:00am

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The public is invited to attend the 5th annual Wreaths Across America ceremony in South Lake Tahoe on Saturday, December 16 at Happy Homestead Cemetery. The Lake Tahoe Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will host the event beginning at 9 a.m.

The purpose of Wreaths Across America is to honor active military personnel, veterans, and first responders. In South Lake Tahoe, wreaths will be laid at the Memorial Wall during the ceremony to honor each of these groups.

Night 11 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Monday night is the eleventh night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is Molly Armanino, a professional freeride skier, and her dog, Chossy.

Molly is reading "Backcountry Skiing of California's Eastern Sierra."

"Reading helps Chossy and I stay calm and focused so I am prepared for big days in the mountains," said Molly.

Did you know that you could help reduce your holiday stress and cut tension in half by reading a book before bed?

Widespread prescribed fire operations continue this week at Lake Tahoe

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) including South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue, North Lake Tahoe and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts, Nevada Division of Forestry, and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will continue prescribed burning this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke from these operations may be present throughout the Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas.

Free Community Christmas Dinner and Pay It Forward meal program at Lake Tahoe AleWorx

Event Date: 
December 13, 2023 - 5:00pm

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Enjoy community kindness and free food this Wednesday, December 13 at Lake Tahoe Aleworx's Community Christmas Dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Swing by Lake Tahoe AleWorX at the Y for the lively event. Bring your crew, bring your family.

"Let's celebrate and build community together this holiday," said Lake Tahoe AleWorX in a news release.

As a continuation of the community and holiday spirit this season, the South Lake Tahoe bar/restaurant is also holding "Pay It Forward - Feed A Family."

Kudos: Heavenly Mountain Resorts sponsors community meal

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - For December’s first Adopt A Day of Nourishment sponsorship, Bread & Broth (B&B) was joined by members of Heavenly Mountain Resorts’ Leadership Team as well as South Lake Tahoe Mayor, Cristi Creegan, for dinner service on Monday, December 14.

Big rig fire closes US50 by South Lake Tahoe Airport

Monday 3:25 p.m. UPDATE: There is a little more information available on this morning's collision in South Lake Tahoe. One big rig truck was traveling east on US50 when it came upon a stopped big rig that was in the designated turn lane in front of the Sierra Ready Mix, facing east. The big rig that was traveling east sideswiped the truck that was stopped.

The big rig that was traveling east came to a stop and caught on fire and the driver was able to get out.

According to South Lake Tahoe Police, neither speed, driver impairment, or road conditions were a factor.

Next Douglas County School Board to meeting: Gilbert's bill, budget increases, superintendent hiring process on agenda

The next monthly meeting of the Douglas County School Board will be held on December 12, 2023, at 4 p.m. at the Douglas High School Media Center and will be carried on Zoom (https://dcsd-k12.zoom.us/j/81999349449 passcode Dec2023).

On the agenda:

Mild week ahead for South Lake Tahoe, possible storms before Christmas

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Did you catch the results of the inversion layer Sunday morning? The view from Heavenly was great with a cloud cover over the lake below. This week, expect more of the same with a valley inversion layer, dry weather, and near-average temperatures courtesy of a high-pressure system.

Dry conditions look to continue at least through the end of next weekend, though there is a small chance of the end of a system on Sunday.

Night 10 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Sunday night is the tenth night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is Zach Fletcher, owner of Adventure Fit Dojo, a climber, and a trainer.

Zach is reading "Chicken Soup With Rice" by Maurice Sendak to his son Luca. His mother-in-law Heika is joining in the fun.

"I read to relax the baby boy and create a healthy routine," said Zach.

Column: Ready to ski? Protect your knees

Every year, thousands of skiers will sustain a knee injury, cutting their season short. While some are caused by unavoidable accidents, some injuries can be prevented. Preparation, mindfulness, and a proactive approach can make all the difference between a day on the slopes and an unforeseen trip to the emergency room.

The medial cruciate ligament (MCL) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are the most prone to injuries when skiing. These ligaments contribute to the stabilization of the knee, and can become compromised in high-speed/high-impact sports such as skiing.

3rd annual Tahoe Backcountry Safety Awareness Week starts Monday

From athlete panel sessions about backcountry safety to guided on-snow events and a film fest, the third annual Tahoe Backcountry Safety Awareness Week is chock full of events and online content curated by Take Care Tahoe. From December 11-16, 2023, both novice and experienced backcountry enthusiasts will have opportunities to learn how to safely recreate in the backcountry this winter.

City Council Tuesday: Votes on cannabis ordinance updates, garbage college fee increase, new mayor

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The next South Lake Tahoe City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 12 at 5:30 p.m.

The first order of business will be to select the 2024 mayor and mayor pro tem from the current council members. Cody Bass is the current mayor pro tem.

El Dorado County Sheriff's Office call log for Lake Tahoe area

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - El Dorado County Sheriff's Office responds to calls throughout the county. The following calls only pertain to the South and West Shore, including Meyers, South Lake Tahoe, Meeks Bay, Tahoma, and the Echo Summit area. There may be some missing calls due to sheriff's logs not being completed at the time of the story.

November 30 - December 6, 2023

11/20

16:24 - CIVIL INCIDENT - Officer initiated activity at Tahoe Prep Academy, Meyers Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA. Disposition: UNABLE TO CONTACT.

Six Nevadans, three from Douglas County, indicted in fake elector plot

CARSON CITY, Nev. - Six Nevadans were indicted by a grand jury for their false portrayal as Nevada’s presidential electors in the aftermath of the 2020 election, says the state's Attorney General Aaron Ford.

Three of the six are Douglas County residents, with one, Eileen Rice, the wife of Douglas County Commissioner Wes Rice, and a Lake Tahoe resident.

Night 9 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Saturday night is the ninth night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is South Lake Tahoe City Manager Joe Irvin.

Joe is reading "Miseducated: A Memoir" by Brandon P. Fleming.

"Reading before bed relaxes me and helps me to fall asleep fast," said Joe..

Did you know that you could help reduce your holiday stress and cut tension in half by reading a book before bed?

Longtime Lake Tahoe commission member resigns after 36 years

HOMEWOOD, Calif. - Ed Miller has served 36 years on the El Dorado County Civil Service Commission, 34 of those years as its chairman.

Miller submitted his resignation this week to be effective after current hearings.

Column: 2023 - Challenge and progress in Lake Tahoe

The slow march toward winter at Lake Tahoe this year is starting to make last winter seem like a distant memory. However, reflecting back on a year of both challenges and wins for the lake and our communities, it would be impossible to leave out the 70-year record snowfall Tahoe received last winter. The crushing series of atmospheric rivers brought emergency conditions that tested the basin, but when it came down to it, we saw people and agencies digging in to help one another dig out.

Barton Health recognized for excellence in surgical quality

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Barton Health has been designated a Surgical Quality Partner by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This distinction acknowledges Barton’s dedication to surgical quality and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in surgical care.

Jamie Anderson celebrates South Lake Tahoe youth with inaugural 18 Under 18 celebration

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Olympic and X-Game Gold Medalist, and South Lake Tahoe native Jamie Anderson celebrated local students this week at a celebration at Valhalla.

Jamie worked with the Lake Tahoe Unified School District to select the inaugural 18 Under 18 celebration, recognizing students for excelling in athletics, academics, business and entrepreneurial, philanthropy as well as being inspirational and winning in another field.

Night 8 of the 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Friday night is the eighth night of the Cuppa Tahoe/South Lake Tahoe Library's 24-day Tahoe Reading Advent Calendar. Tonight's bedtime reader is community advocate and longtime local Wendy David.

She is reading "Jellyfish Age Backwards."

"Reading expands my world and I learn things I've never even thought of before," said Wendy.

Did you know that you could help reduce your holiday stress and cut tension in half by reading a book before bed?

Syndicate content