Month: November 2025

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In The News – An Extreme Tree Hunt in the Sierra Nevada

November 11, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 11/11/2025, Staff Report

After University of California, Davis, forest ecologist Hugh Safford stumbled upon California’s highest tree, a Jeffrey pine, in the High Sierra in 2024, he vowed to return. He wanted to learn more about what this unlikely species is doing in the Sierra Nevada’s highest places, and how it got there. 

This summer, he and a team of UC Davis researchers hiked more than 240 miles and climbed 24 peaks in search of high-elevation Jeffrey pines and what their presence may reveal about our warming planet. 

A UC Davis storyteller accompanied them for four days, documenting their journey through writing, photos, audio, videos and watercolor sketches. The resulting feature story, “An Extreme Tree Hunt in the Sierra Nevada,” reveals the lengths some scientists will go to understand the wonders and changes of the natural world.

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In The News – Tahoe landmark could see new life

November 11, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 11/11/2025, Written by Petra Molina

A long-vacant gas station at the gateway to Lakeshore Boulevard — one of the most exclusive streets in the Lake Tahoe Basin — may see new life after more than two decades of inactivity.

Known as the Orbit Station, the structure at 560 Lakeshore Blvd. has stood unused for more than 20 years. Still, to some, the building is an unmistakable historic landmark along the North Shore.

“It’s a midcentury modern building from a time when Tahoe was still developing,” said architectural historian Alan Hess. “This building echoes and represents the character of the area at the time.”

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Photo: Petra Molina – Sierra Sun

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PINE NUTS – Animals at Play

November 9, 2025 | McAvoy Lane

We know horses love their show jumping, and dogs love their Frisbees, but what about birds and sea otters? Well, anyone who has been to Twain Haven in the last eight years has met Huckleberry, my pet jay, who lands here on the top deck at 8am for breakfast, noon for lunch, and Happy Hour for a Beer Nut. I whistle his favorite tune, “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore,” which makes him laugh, and he waves his beak to the rhythm of the tune…

If I’m not paying attention, Huck will tap on the glass door, or jump up onto the flagstaff and wave Old Glory to get my attention. But his favorite trick takes place when I’m in the forest next door, trimming my fingernails, and casting my shadow on the forest floor, whereupon Huckleberry stations himself on a branch behind and above me, and dances his shadow atop mine. It’s enough to make a lama laugh…

But now what about sea otters? I read recently that they are stealing surfboards in Santa Cruz, not the first time either. We humans have given one of these furry surfboard robbers a number, “841” as she is a repeat offender. 841 will hang ten herself, but most of her sport is carried on at night we suspect, as she does not want to draw attention to her newfound hobby.

841, let’s call her Eglantine to give her some dignity, reminds me of a night I felt so alive while body surfing with my wife on our honeymoon at Brenneke Beach on the Island of Kauai, under a midnight Poipu full moon, when a family of dolphins joined us, almost touching us in sharing our dreamlike waves. It gives me chicken skin to think about it even today…

So we know that some animals are playful, and it behooves us to encourage such playfulness, and bring out the very best Snoopy that they all have to offer. 

And what about us playful humans? I have to believe that given the choice, all playful humans would choose to live in Nevada. Why Nevada? Well, for a number of good reasons. One, we don’t wear watches in Nevada. We eat when we’re hungry, and sleep when we’re tired. And we have Las Vegas: Mother Earth’s warmest erogenous zone, and we live by the betting line, “If the line should dip, take the dog.” Yes, money made Nevada and Nevada makes money. In Nevada parlance, “Good coaches win, great coaches cover.”

Above all, Nevada is a land of unique personalities, from eccentrics of the highest order,
who will jump a water fountain on a motorcycle, to entertainment’s elite, “Viva Las Vegas!” Yes, in Nevada, divorce is an industry, and gaming an institution. In Nevada we trust everyone, but cut the cards. 

In closing we have to love all those animals that are playful, particularly those two-legged animals that reside in the Great State of Nevada…

Audio: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Fhv4PrH1UuwlhbnTT23zO

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Mountains of Gratitude: Thanksgiving Feasts in Tahoe-Truckee

November 8, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally Published by Tahoe.com, 11/08/2025, Written by Kirsten Alexis

There’s a lot to be grateful for in life, and here in the Tahoe-Truckee region we have an abundance of it. From dynamic landscapes to an endless supply of outdoor recreation opportunities to a diverse and vibrant community, we truly have it all. 

Autumn brings many changes to the region. It’s a short window between the busy summer season and the magic of winter and holiday spirit. Beyond the foliage and crisp mountain air, there’s a moment to pause and reflect, to ground your spirit and give thanks to the blessings around you. 

Thanksgiving isn’t just a turkey dinner. It’s a chance to spend quality time with loved ones. From a shared meal to a stroll through the towering pines to laughing around a warm bonfire, lasting memories are made here.

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IMS Exploratory Program Takes Reading Beyond the Classroom

November 8, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Another example of how Incline Middle School is taking learning outside the classroom—and into the community—comes from this fall’s Library Exploratory.

Students were highly engaged as they learned about writing, editing, and public speaking through a creative adventure fiction project at the Incline Village Public Library. Each Wednesday, the library team provided all the materials and guided students through activities that strengthened their storytelling and presentation skills.

Beyond improving their writing, students discovered how much more the library offers—from free online resources and 3D printing to Teen Tuesday, Escape Rooms, and dedicated study and hangout spaces. Many left with a new appreciation for the library as a hub for creativity, technology, and lifelong learning.

Each student capped off the experience by reading their original stories aloud to a small audience—gaining confidence and poise as young authors and public speakers.

Incline Middle School and Incline Education Fund extend a special thank-you to the Incline Village Public Library team for creating such a dynamic, hands-on learning experience.    

? Support your public library—it’s more than just books!

The Incline Education Fund proudly funds the entire IMS Exploratory Program, making experiences like this possible for every student.

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Introducing Classical Tahoe’s New Board Chair: Rafael Pastor

November 6, 2025 | Member Submitted

We’re delighted to announce that Rafael Pastor has been named Chair of the Classical Tahoe Board of Directors, effective November 1, 2025. A seasoned executive, intrapreneur, and lifelong advocate for the arts, Rafael brings a dynamic vision and deep commitment to Classical Tahoe’s mission.

After 11 years as Classical Tahoe’s Board Chair, Marna Broida is stepping down and will continue to serve on the Board as a Director.

A message from Marna Broida: 

“Classical Tahoe is an extraordinary arts organization with the strongest, most dedicated team it has ever had. Now is the perfect moment for new leadership. Keep your eye on this artistic gem! With our visionary executive director, David Pratt, new board chair, Rafael Pastor, new vice chair, Michael Blaszyk, and our partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno, we will continue to expand our mission and vision, delighting audiences, educating students of all ages, and transforming lives. “ 

Thank you, Marna for your dedication and many years of service to Classical Tahoe. And please join us in welcoming Rafael Pastor as our new Board Chair.

ABOUT RAFAEL PASTOR

Referring to himself as “actively repurposed” (rejecting “retired”),  Rafael currently serves or recently served as a Director on the Boards of Ensight (as Chairman, continually helping to guide its growth as an insurance-sales facilitation company), RosettaBooks (as a Founder of one of the first e-book publishers), and Experience Investment Corp. (a SPAC that merged with Blade, the passenger and organs air-transport company). He also serves as an Advisor to a major international private equity firm, and is a limited partner and advisor in several investment partnerships.


Rafael is also: Chairman of the International Advisory Board of the School of Global Policy and Strategy at UC San Diego (UCSD); Trustee of the UCSD Foundation; Member of the Executive Committee of the Dean’s Advisory Council of the Rady School of Management at UCSD. As a Board Member of the National Association of Corporate Directors/Pacific Southwest Chapter (which covers Southern California, Nevada and Arizona), Rafael has produced, moderated and been a panelist on several webinars focused to what Board Directors need to know and do.


Rafael is also: Chairman of the International Advisory Board of the School of Global Policy and Strategy at UC San Diego (UCSD); Trustee of the UCSD Foundation; Member of the Executive Committee of the Dean’s Advisory Council of the Rady School of Management at UCSD. As a Board Member of the National Association of Corporate Directors/Pacific Southwest Chapter (which covers Southern California, Nevada and Arizona), Rafael has produced, moderated and been a panelist on several webinars focused to what Board Directors need to know and do.

Rafael is also: Chairman of the International Advisory Board of the School of Global Policy and Strategy at UC San Diego (UCSD); Trustee of the UCSD Foundation; Member of the Executive Committee of the Dean’s Advisory Council of the Rady School of Management at UCSD. As a Board Member of the National Association of Corporate Directors/Pacific Southwest Chapter (which covers Southern California, Nevada and Arizona), Rafael has produced, moderated and been a panelist on several webinars focused to what Board Directors need to know and do.

Rafael is also: Chairman of the International Advisory Board of the School of Global Policy and Strategy at UC San Diego (UCSD); Trustee of the UCSD Foundation; Member of the Executive Committee of the Dean’s Advisory Council of the Rady School of Management at UCSD. As a Board Member of the National Association of Corporate Directors/Pacific Southwest Chapter (which covers Southern California, Nevada and Arizona), Rafael has produced, moderated and been a panelist on several webinars focused to what Board Directors need to know and do.

Over the years, Rafael has served as a Trustee of several humanitarian, educational, and cultural  organizations. These include: the International League for Human Rights (based in New York as Board Vice Chairman); the Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School (in New York, NY) and the Pacific Ridge School (in Carlsbad, CA); the Old Globe Theater (in San Diego, CA on the Board’s Executive Committee); and the La Jolla Music Society (in La Jolla, CA as Board Vice Chairman while it raised $80 Million and built the exquisite Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center). 


Rafael started his career at the Wall Street law firm of Hawkins, Delafield and Wood and then as Associate General Counsel at CBS Inc. Born in Israel to Hungarian parents, he speaks Hungarian and French and (less fluently) German and Hebrew. 


In addition to his experiences as a Board member of corporate and not-for-profit entities, Rafael has participated in Board meetings and deliberations as a CEO, investment banker, and attorney.
Rafael has loved (but has no talent in) classical music ever since he was inspired by one of his childhood heroes, Leonard Bernstein. He and Marina are also avid about theatre, dance, art, humor, and all forms of excellent creativity from around the world. He has been a proud and admiring member of Classical Tahoe’s Board since 2024.

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Help Feed Our Neighbors This Season – You Can Help

November 5, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally Published by Sierra Community House

Beginning November 1st, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps) benefits will be delayed until the federal government reopens and funding resumes, leaving many of our neighbors without critical support to put food on the table. We are already hearing from families who don’t know where their next meal will come from—and we expect that number to rise sharply in the coming days.

As the only food pantry in our region, currently serving over 700 families a week, we’re mobilizing every resource we have to bridge this gap. We are anticipating a 30% minimum increase in demand. Food insecurity is already one of our community’s greatest challenges, and this loss of benefits will push even more families to the edge.

Saturday’s 35th Annual Tahoe Chocolate & Wine Festival was a beautiful celebration of community and compassion focusing on hunger needs in our community. The outpouring of support renewed our commitment to continue meeting the growing needs of local families every day.

If you missed it, please take a moment to watch this short video highlighting the impact your support makes: Watch: Sierra Community House 2025 Impact Video.

Now, we need your help more than ever to meet the growing demand for food assistance. Here’s how you can make an immediate difference:

  • Join the 2.38 Plate Club – Become a monthly donor and sustain our Hunger Relief program.  It costs us about $2.38 to provide a meal to a community member.  Because of our strong partnerships and food rescue efforts, your donated dollars go much further.  Your monthly contribution will help sustain the growing needs of our community.
  • Start a Virtual Food Drive- Help us spread the word and invite others to support our efforts by creating our own Sierra Community House – Virtual Food Drive
  • Make a one-time gift. – Every dollar counts.
    We also accept gifts of stock and from donor advised funds.
    Checks may be mailed to:
    Sierra Community House, 948 Incline Way, Incline Village, NV 89451
    Tax ID: 94-2985554
  • Volunteer – Help us pack and distribute food to local families. Sign up here
  • Advocate – Share our mission and raise your voice for policies that protect food assistance.

Managing individual food drop-offs can be challenging for our small team. While we deeply appreciate the community’s desire to help by donating food, monetary donations go even further.  They allow us to buy fresh, healthy food in bulk and reduce waste and storage challenges. For this reason, we are not currently accepting food donations, but your financial gifts and volunteer time make a huge difference.

Read a blog from Patrick Kratzer, our Director of Hunger Relief, which includes details on local food rescue efforts, here.

Thank you for standing with us during this critical moment. Because of you, our community is stronger, more connected, and better nourished.

Paul Bancroft

Executive Director

Sierra Community House

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The Local Lens – Honoring our Veterans

November 5, 2025 | Linda Offerdahl

Take a moment next Tuesday to honor the men and women who wear a military uniform to serve our country in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day originated with Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I. Incline Village/Crystal Bay has several organizations serving veterans, all of whom invite the general public to attend their meetings, events, and fundraisers. Perhaps the largest is the Incline Village Veterans Club, which meets monthly on the last Thursday at the Chateau for lunch. The Military Officers of America Association has a speaker series. The upcoming leadership series is on November 20 and features District Attorney Chris Hickman as the speaker. President of the Lake Tahoe Chapter, John Hoffman, is also Chairman of the Onward Opps Foundation, a nationwide group that offers mentoring and other support for vets, both active and inactive. PTSD Now! focuses on suicide prevention in Nevada (and other states) National Guard with a program called “Purple Resolve”.  Rotary Club of Incline Village celebrates Veterans Day at their lunch on Monday, November 11. If you are interested, reach out to Speeslaw@aol.com.

National Wreaths Across America Day is December 13, 2025!

Join the Incline Village Crystal Bay Veterans Club at Eastside Memorial Park in Minden or the Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline at Lone Mountain Cemetery in Carson City.

Donate here.

HUNGER RELIEF

There’s a lot of buzz around town right about the potential increase in food insecurity due to  cuts in the government SNAP “digital food stamps” program. Among the numerous groups ready to help, Sierra Community House is the first line of support. They are connected to our local markets and have the best buying power with sources like Northern Nevada Food Bank, so better to donate money than food. Walk-up food distribution in Incline takes place on Thursday from 2-3:30 at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church. For more detailed information on all of their food-related services and to donate, visit: Hunger Relief – Sierra Community House.

How to help….lots of people are asking. In addition to Sierra Community House,

  • Tahoe Family Solutions’ family resource center is the “boots on the ground” for SNAP recipients. They are busy finding additional ways to help.
  • Tahoe Community Foundation is connecting people with programs across the Tahoe Basin
  • Sierra Senior Services delivers Meals on Wheels in Incline Village, funded by Washoe County.  Kristin, give URL
  • Food Bank of Northern Nevada supports us locally through Sierra Community House and the Vincent DePaul branch at St. Francis Catholic Church. (give URL)
  • Faith-based: every local church offers assistance to those in need! 

Well-Behaved Women Rarely Make History!

As you can imagine, I relate to this phrase quite a bit. I may not make any history book, but I am doing my best to share my time, talent, and treasure with this community! I am not alone. I have been reminded of this phrase recently with the passing of two strong women who made a difference, not just in Incline Village but also across the country. 

Nancy Siebens Binz and her family’s foundation were passionate about small private colleges and many other institutions like the Mayo Clinic.  As a longtime resident, we benefited from her generous and regular support of  Sierra Nevada College( before it became a part of UNR.) Nancy was feisty and spoke her mind. Everyone knew where she stood. She passed away in October, just a month shy of turning 94. She moved to the Cayman Islands a number of years ago and pursued her lifelong passions of travel and deep-sea fishing. 

Peggy Poindexter passed away suddenly in October, and many of us gathered to celebrate her life and support her husband, Jeff, and two daughters on Sunday at Burnt Cedar. Peggy had an illustrious career with the Department of Defense before she turned her talents to making Incline a better place. I cannot do her biography justice, but I can tell you from firsthand experience that she was an outstanding cook and shared this talent with AAUW and its garden party fundraisers and cooking clubs. When she was President of AAUW, she started a program at the high school to steer students toward vocational education and to develop skills and trades.  As her daughter said, Peggy could be “prickly”, which to me is just another way of describing a strong woman who knew her mind and made stuff happen. Thank you Peggy!

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In The News – Incline Village Main Street launches Dancing With Daffodils

November 4, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 10/23/2025, Staff Report

 IVCBA is asking businesses and residents to help cover Incline Village and Crystal Bay next spring with daffodils by planting bulbs this fall. It is part of Inclined to Bloom, the project that brought hanging flower baskets and terra cotta pots to Incline commercial areas last summer. IVCBA will supply FREE BULBS to participating businesses and landscapers.

Dancing with daffodils is what we will be doing next spring if we all plant bulbs this fall! This is a pilot project, a grassroots campaign to beautify Incline in the spring. Daffodils are the first flower (yellow) to peak out through the snow in April/May and are hardy enough to survive an unexpected snowstorm. Once the bulbs are planted, the flowers come back every year. And they multiply! Any business, group, or individuals willing to plant bulbs, reach out to Linda@IVCBA.org to receive free bulbs.

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Constructing Confidence: Incline Middle School Students Learn by Doing—and Giving

November 4, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Incline Middle School students just wrapped up the first quarter of this year’s Exploratory Program—a signature initiative that turns learning into doing. Now in its third year, the program gives every student the chance to dive into real-world, hands-on experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and practical skills.

This fall’s lineup was as diverse as it was inspiring. Students explored Culinary Arts, Fiber Art, and Financial Literacy, hit the lanes in Bowling, and took to the pool for Swimming. Outdoor enthusiasts tackled Mountain Biking and Tennis, while construction-minded teams painted Bear Boxes and built Dog Houses—projects that blend engineering, design, and community service. Leadership and a class at the public library rounded out the offerings, helping students strengthen communication, organization, and collaboration skills.

A special thanks goes out to the many community members and local Rotary volunteers who shared their time and expertise to make these projects possible. Chuck Meyer (1), Chuck Meyer (2), Ginny Lewis, Ed Yarish, Greg Simvoulakis, Pam Sheldon, Lu Sweeney, and Valerie Kuchulis all rolled up their sleeves to mentor students in the Dog House build, teaching practical construction skills while reinforcing teamwork and problem-solving. Their involvement continues to show how much our community invests in its young people.

Look for the finished dog houses around town! The IMS class built four of them, which will be displayed throughout the village during November. In collaboration with the Pet Network, the houses are also being used to collect donations for Pet Shelter Awareness Month. In December, two of the houses will be donated to the Liberty Dogs program in Reno, and the other two will be raffled off to help fund future IMS Exploratory projects.

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