activities

Column: Understanding COVID-19 vaccines

There’s a good chance you or someone you know will soon get a COVID-19 vaccine. El Dorado County is in Phase 1B-Tier 1, which allows residents in certain age categories to now receive a vaccine, along with other identified essential worker categories.

This is great news. The more people who vaccinate, the sooner we will again be able to safely engage in more activities. Many people ask how the vaccines do and don’t do, and how they work in our bodies. Here’s an overview.

What each vaccine does

El Dorado County and South Lake Tahoe exit state's stay-at-home order

1/13/21 UPDATE: The state has updated its website to reflect that hotels and vacation rentals can open with modifications in the purple tier. For all businesses, visit https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Just moments ago, the Greater Sacramento Region, of which El Dorado County is a part, was granted authority by the State to exit the Regional Stay At Home Order, effective immediately. This is based on the State’s four-week projection putting the region’s ICU capacity at 19.1 percent, above the 15 percent threshold announced last month.

Homeless coalition completes purchase of three South Lake Tahoe motels; move-ins begin

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - After Governor Newsom announced the state would be giving the Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless (TCH) almost $10 million, the local nonprofit quickly bought three motels to meet its goal of ending homelessness in South Lake Tahoe. The September announcement of the Project Homekey grant came with an end-of-the-year deadline so California communities would get the ball rolling on sheltering the chronic homeless.

Letter: Special themed sales all year long at South Lake Tahoe Library

Happy New Year from the Friends of the Library of South Lake Tahoe! We want to thank you for your support during this last year through your donations, both books and contributions, to help us supplement our Library’s book and program budgets.

Law enforcement prepares for possible New Year's Eve crowds on South Shore

Even with the current pandemic, New Year's revelers could still flock to the Stateline casino corridor and South Lake Tahoe on Thursday so law enforcement will be prepared. With no SnowGlobe this year due to the pandemic, and Heavenly Village New Year's Eve activities canceled, it is unknown as to what will take place in an area that at one time saw 50,000 people in the streets to bring in the new year. Last year it was estimated 7,000 to 8,000 people took to the streets at midnight at Stateline and 6,500 at Heavenly Village for its 9:00 p.m. fireworks.

Officials warn of sledding dangers at unofficial sled hills at Lake Tahoe

Snow, a good slope and a sled in hand are the ingredients needed for a fun day around Lake Tahoe, but first responders are warning the public to only use official sledding locations or that fun can turn to a bad day very quickly.

Sledding is not as harmless as it looks, just ask the roughly 20,000 kids under age of 19 in the United States involved in sledding accidents annually.

Merry Christmas

As we prepare to bid the year of 2020 a fond farewell, we are celebrating Christmas as best we can during these unprecedented and uncertain times.

I could start with all the normal holiday greetings like Merry Christmas, May your holidays sparkle with joy and laughter, or I hope the magic of Christmas fills every corner of your heart and home with joy — now and always, but this year seems like so much more is needed.

Del Laine ~ March 20, 1930 - December 18, 2020

Del Laine has left her mark on South Lake Tahoe in ways that many local residents might not know. She was a mover and shaker, whose focus was on making the city a better place. Her most important role, though, was promoting the well-being of women.

This pioneer died Dec. 18, 2020, at home from natural causes, with family at her side. She was 90.

She was born Dolores Mae Wright on March 20, 1930, in Oakland, Calif., to Mabel Paulson and Leslie Wright.

Column: ’Tis the season for a little self-care

With the holidays already upon us, one thing is certain this year – the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on millions of Californians, causing us to rethink so much of our daily lives, including reprioritizing family time and our mental health. The holiday season may add more challenges to parents who are balancing career, teacher and caregiver duties, as well as dealing with unanticipated illness, burnout and unemployment. Each of these challenges, for some of us, can make the season feel like the added pressures are insurmountable.

California Tahoe Conservancy awards over $340,000 to Washoe Tribe to restore Meeks Meadow

The California Tahoe Conservancy Board has awarded a $380,454 grant to the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California for the Máyala Wáta Restoration Project at Meeks Meadow, and area rich in cultural and ecological importance.

No new restrictions for Nevada as Governor asks all to stem the tide of COVID-19

Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak spoke to Nevadans Sunday afternoon to update them on the state's COVID-19 situation. He said the restrictions that went into effect three weeks ago will continue until January 15, 2021. Due to the rising COVID-19 cases and deaths in the state many thought he might impose stricter regulations.

Column: Healthier, happier holiday celebrations

As we prepare to say goodbye (and maybe even good riddance) to 2020, the end of the year brings several holidays. Whether celebrating Solstice, Hanukkah, Christmas, Boxing Day, Kwanza, and of course, New Year’s Eve, remember that indoor holiday gatherings with others not in your immediate household can put you, your community, and those you care about at risk. As challenging as it is, staying home for the holidays is your best way to protect yourself and loved ones, and help slow the spread of COVID-19 in a time when healthcare and essential workers critically need that support.

South Lake Tahoe and El Dorado County not under shut down orders, yet

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - With a surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, California Governor Newsom today issued a new regional stay-at-home order as an "emergency brake" to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

This order goes into effect in regions with less than 15 percent ICU availability. At this time, the El Dorado County does not fall into that group but it could be a matter of days until it does. The county is part of the Greater Sacramento Region which is at 22 percent capacity as of Thursday.

Douglas County Public Health Officer issues guidance after rise in COVID-19 cases

Douglas County has recently seen an alarming increase in COVID-19 cases in an extremely short period of time. This is part of a regional and statewide trend in rapidly increasing confirmed COVID-19 infections and they are experiencing strain to their healthcare system and first responders.

Douglas County cancels public holiday events due to rise in COVID-19 cases

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. = After consultation with the Douglas County officials, the towns, public safety agencies, and Douglas County Emergency Management it was determined in-person public holiday events in the towns of Gardnerville, Genoa, and Minden have been canceled. This includes the 25th annual Parade of Lights hosted by the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce. County officials said the action was deemed necessary for the safety of the community, due to the most recent State directive limiting public gatherings to no more than 50 people.

COVID-19 testing available on LTCC campus through winter

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) will continue to serve as an appointment-only COVID-19 testing center through March 31, 2021. The college’s standalone Physical Education building is the only large-scale COVID-19 active virus testing site operating in El Dorado County.

Surge of COVID--19 cases in Alpine County concerns health officer

ALPINE COUNTY, Calif. - The least populated county in California is just to the south of Lake Tahoe. Alpine County, population about 1,200, includes the towns of Markleeville, Woodfords, Kirkwood and Bear Valley. While not big, Alpine County is experiencing a surge of COVID-19 cases just like the rest of the country.

New California 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. curfew starts Saturday

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases, California has issued a limited Stay at Home Order. All non-essential work and gatherings must stop from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. in counties in the purple tier, including El Dorado County.

This will take effect at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 21, 2020 and remain in place for one month until 5:00 a.m. December 21.

The curfew comes after 40 counties moved into the more restrictive purple tier after experiencing a rise in hospitalizations and positive cases of COVID-19.

Heavenly Mountain Resort prepares for opening day Friday

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Opening day at Heavenly Mountain Resort is planned for Friday, November 20, with ski and snowboard operations exclusive for all pass holders until December 8.

This year there are many changes due to COVID-19 and Vail says their goal is to prioritize pass holders, including those who have the Epic Day Pass. Those with passes need to reserve their day on the slopes as does the general non-pass holding public.

There will be no ticket sales at the Vail ski resorts this season and all is conducted virtually except for sightseeing rides.

Placer County moves into the Red Tier; North Lake Tahoe businesses affected

NORTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Like most of California, COVID-19 cases have been on the rise in Placer County, prompting state officials to move the area which includes Kings Beach and Tahoe City into the more restrictive red tier.

Barton Health brings back services to Robert Maloff Orthopedics & Wellness Center

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - With services stopped during the first months of the pandemic due to safety concerns, Barton Health is bringing back health and wellness programs to its Robert Maloff Center for Orthopedics & Wellness.

Letter: Don't let City allow hosted vacation rentals

The ban on Vacation Home Rentals (VHRs) in South Lake Tahoe is looming and the City is now working on putting holes in it. The first attempt is being presented Tuesday, Nov 3 at the City Council meeting. The City plans to allow 200 “Hosted” short term rentals in our neighborhoods. It will require a tenant or owner to host guests in their ‘homes’ to be available to respond to complaints within 60 minutes of issues being reported. On the surface this seems a reasonable alternative until we consider the realities and how this might actually be used.

Visitor bureaus start “Travel Safely, Adventure Greatly” campaign

Carson Valley and South Lake Tahoe collaboratively are welcoming visitors to the region with a travel safely, adventure greatly message. Under the cooperative marketing umbrella of the #SierraSafely campaign, the goal of the program is focused on tourism recovery for Douglas County while restoring confidence among visitors and locals in the region.

Column: A safer, healthier haunting this season

Seasonal holidays like Halloween will be different this fall to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Finding safe ways to celebrate can create magical memories, and lower the risk of exposure to yourself, your family, and your community. The decisions we make on this one day can have a ripple effect beyond our own families. Halloween during the COVID-19 pandemic is a chance for you and your children to get creative, and maybe even invent some new traditions for your family. It's also a great opportunity to model flexibility and a positive spirit.

COVID-19 case update for Lake Tahoe area counties

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - El Dorado County health officials say another two residents have tested positive for COVID-19 since yesterday. Of those, one is in El Dorado Hills, one in Pollock Pines/Camino/Kyburz, one in Greater Placerville, and none in the Lake Tahoe region. There is a -1 case from Diamond Springs/El Dorado due to a misclassification of a previous case. Both areas with today's cases have seen an increase in visitors due to Apple Hill activities.

One of those new cases 1 is under the age of 18, 1 aged 18-49, - 1 aged 50-64, and 1 aged 65 or older.

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork October 18-24

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The following is a list of the long term and short term projects the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has scheduled for the week around Lake Tahoe, in the Sierra and El Dorado County.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

Virtual Paint and Sip and themed Jeopardy during Live Violence Free's "Light the Night Purple"

Event Date: 
October 20, 2020 - 5:30pm

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Live Violence Free is holding "Light the Night Purple" on October 20 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. as part of their month-long recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

This is a free Facebook Live event that will include a paint and sip session with a live painting instructor, domestic violence themed jeopardy, and a survivor guest speaker who will lead an empowering conversation. The first 25 participants that sign up will be provided with a free bag of painting supplies and a non-alcoholic beverage for the paint and sip portion of the event.

STPUD candidates respond to questions

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - There are three open seats on the South Tahoe Public Utility Board of Directors this election season, two for a four-year term and one for a two-year term.

South Tahoe Now reached out to the candidates and below are their answers to a set of questions. For the two four-year terms, incumbent Kelly Sheehan is running for reelection, Duane Wallace is running after being appointed to fill Jim Jones's spot on the board until this election, and they are joined by David Peterson.

El Dorado County and South Lake Tahoe remain in state's orange reopening tier

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - During Tuesday's El Dorado County Board of Supervisors meeting, the county's Public health Officer Dr. Nancy Williams said the region remains in the orange tier of the California reopening plan.

During the meeting, Dr. Williams told the supervisors it is now obvious that California is in the midst of a second wave of coronavirus cases, and El Dorado County is experiencing a second wave as well, but so far the numbers have kept the region in the "orange."

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork October 11-17

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The following is a list of the long term and short term projects the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has scheduled for the week around Lake Tahoe, in the Sierra and El Dorado County.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

SLT Council Candidate Keith Roberts

South Tahoe Now reached out to all nine candidates for South Lake Tahoe City Council and provided the same list of questions to each one of them. Once a day their answers will be published in the order received.

Today's candidate is Keith Roberts.

Profession: Executive Chef

How many years in SLT: 5 years

El Dorado County and South Lake Tahoe move into less restrictive Orange Tier

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - El Dorado County’s Public Health Officer, Dr. Nancy Williams, today announced the County has moved within the State’s new COVID-19 framework for reopening from the Red tier into the less restrictive Orange tier, effective immediately.

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork September 20-26

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The following is a list of the long term and short term projects the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has scheduled for the week around Lake Tahoe, in the Sierra and El Dorado County.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

USFS beaches and other day-use facilities around Lake Tahoe reopen Saturday

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - National Forest trails, trailheads, beaches and other day-use areas in the Lake Tahoe Basin will re-open for day-use only beginning Saturday, Sep. 19, 2020. Camping and overnight stays will not be permitted, and campgrounds will remain closed. Resorts will reopen for day-use only. Emergency Fire Restrictions will remain in effect through Nov. 30. I’ve attached the Forest Orders for your awareness.

The prohibition of the use of any ignition source on all National Forest System lands (campfires, gas stoves, etc.) throughout California remains in place.

Washoe County issues very first Stage 2 air pollution warning

WASHOE COUNTY, Nev. - The Washoe County Health District – Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) has issued a Stage 2 Air Pollution Warning for Washoe County based on current air pollution levels. This warning means that all residents should stay indoors and reduce activity levels due to the susceptibility of increased health risks.

This is the first Stage 2 warning ever issued by the Health District and is in place until further notice.

Red Flag Warning and Lake Wind Advisory in place for Lake Tahoe Tuesday

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno has changed their previous Fire Weather Watch to a Red Flag Warning for Tuesday, September 8 from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

They have also issued a Special Weather Statement and a Lake Wind Advisory for Tuesday from 3:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Red Flag Warning

This warning is in place due to gusty winds and low humidity for the Lake Tahoe Basin, Western Lassen, Eastern Plumas, Eastern Sierrs, and Eastern Nevada Counites. Fire Zone 271 and Fire Zone 272.

Fire Weather Watch canceled for Lake Tahoe area Tuesday

UPDATE Monday 4:20PM: The National Weather Service had changed their previous Fire Weather Watch to a Red Flag Warning and Lake Wind Advisory day, starting at 3:00 a.m. Tuesday. For more info, visit http://southtahoenow.com/story/09/07/2020/red-flag-warning-and-lake-wind-advisory-place-lake-tahoe-t...

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Tuesday, September 8 from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (timeframe was expanded Monday).

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork September 6 - 12

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The following is a list of the long term and short term projects the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has scheduled for the week around Lake Tahoe, in the Sierra and El Dorado County.

Most traffic-interfering work will be restricted from 6:00 a.m. Friday, Sept. 4 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 due to the Labor Day holiday.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

El Dorado County public health officer urges personal responsibility during holiday weekend

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - This won't be a normal labor Day weekend in Lake Tahoe due to COVID-19 and fire restrictions, but things can still be enjoyed, just differently.

“Before COVID-19, many of us would spend the Labor Day weekend getting together with friends and extended families to enjoy a little down time from work, as is the American tradition. This year, things have changed, but we can still enjoy our holiday weekend safely," said El Dorado County Public Health Officer Dr. Nancy Williams.

Tahoe Chamber Town Hall: New blueprint for a safer economy

Event Date: 
September 4, 2020 - 11:00am

Join the Tahoe Chamber for another segment of their virtual Town Hall series. This week's topic is "New Blueprint for a Safer Economy" and will be on Friday, September 4 from 11:00 a.m. to noon.

Governor Newsom has announced the new Blueprint for a Safer Economy, which includes revised criteria for loosening and tightening restrictions on activities. The Tahoe Chamber has invited El Dorado County Health Officer Dr. Nancy Williams to learn what the new tier-based system means for the reopening of our businesses, and the guidelines for restaurants opening for indoor dining at 25% occupancy.

South Lake Tahoe City Council candidates respond to #IRunWithMaud questions

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - There will be two new members of the South Lake Tahoe City Council after the November 3 election. In the coming weeks the pubic will have chances to hear from the candidates both via zoom, in print and possibly in person. Below are eight of the ten candidates responses to questions asked by the local #IRunWithMaud group.

Heat advisory in effect all weekend for Lake Tahoe communities

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - It is going to be a hot one in Lake Tahoe over the Labor Day Weekend as well as in Western Nevada and Northern California.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno has issued a Heat Advisory from 11:00 a.m. Friday to 8:00 p.m. Sundayfor Lake Tahoe due to consecutive days of high temperature. The forecast highs are 90-93 degrees those three days and record high temperatures are likely this holiday weekend.

Not only will there be high temperatures, there will also be widespread haze due to Northern California fires.

Barton Health expands services, welcomes new psychiatrist Dr. Joe Hibbeln,

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Internationally recognized psychiatrist, Joe Hibbeln, MD, has joined Barton Health’s team of expert mental and behavioral health providers. A board-certified physician, Dr. Hibbeln is working with patients over 18 years of age at Barton Community Health Center in South Lake Tahoe.

El Dorado County moves to next reopening tier Sept 21 if COVID-19 cases remain low

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - El Dorado County will be able to move to the next colored tier on September 21 if COVID-19 cases remain under four cases per day average and test positivity stays below five percent for two consecutive seven-day periods.

The County started off the new color-tiered reopening plan in the Red/Substantial tier due to data from the weeks of August 5-11 and August 12-18.

"The State requires that a County remain in the assigned tier for three weeks

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork August 30 - September 5

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The following is a list of the long term and short term projects the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has scheduled for the week around Lake Tahoe, in the Sierra and El Dorado County.

Most traffic-interfering work will be restricted from 6:00 a.m. Friday, Sept. 4 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 due to the Labor Day holiday.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

Soroptimist International of South Lake Tahoe awards 19 scholarships

Soroptimist International of South Lake Tahoe (SISLT) awarded scholarships to a group of local students from South Tahoe High, George Whittell High, the Lake Tahoe Basin Fire Academy and Lake Tahoe Community College. The club, serving the community since 1959, has given out over one-million dollars to local graduates over the years.

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork August 23 - 29

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The following is a list of the long term and short term projects the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has scheduled for the week around Lake Tahoe, in the Sierra and El Dorado County.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

All wood and charcoal fires banned in Lake Tahoe Basin

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. - In a unified move, all fire agencies around the Lake Tahoe Basin have banned all open burning utilizing wood and charcoal for the remainder of the summer, or longer if needed. This includes campgrounds with fire rings, fire pits at homes and all charcoal barbeques whether at home or at public and private facilities.

The suspension takes effect at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2020 and will be enforced with extinguishment and possible citations and fines.

Apple Hill and other county agricultural businesses receive COVID-19 operation guidelines

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - Agricultural businesses including those at the popular Apple Hill received instructions this week from El Dorado County on safety precautions and procedures. These were created to ensure operations are safe in light of the COVID-19 pandemic when they open for the 2020 harvest season.

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