In the News – Tahoe Community Foundation celebrates 30 Years of philanthropy with $120,000 in anniversary grants
August 25, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 8/25/2026, Staff Report
Tahoe Community Foundation is proud to celebrate its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of connecting generosity with community needs and helping create lasting impact throughout the Tahoe region. Since its founding in 1996, the Community Foundation has granted more than $165 million to support nonprofit organizations, community initiatives, and charitable causes that strengthen the communities of Tahoe and beyond.
Built on perseverance and collaboration, Tahoe Community Foundation was founded by local community members who shared a vision: a thriving Tahoe where philanthropy could serve as a powerful force for good. Over the last 30 years, that vision has grown into a trusted philanthropic partner for individuals, families, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders.
Elected officials, agencies, and stalwart protectors of Lake Tahoe gathered at Sand Harbor Nevada State Park August 19, 2026 for the 30th annual Tahoe Summit. Photo by: Corey Rich, Novus Select
U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) hosted the 30th annual Tahoe Summit on Wednesday, where she was joined by Nevada and California elected leaders, leaders of the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, and professional rock climber and conservationist Tommy Caldwell who delivered the keynote address.
The Tahoe Summit, started in 1997 by former Senators Harry Reid and Dianne Feinstein, has played a crucial role in bringing leaders from both states and both parties together to work to conserve the Tahoe Basin.
“For 30 years, the Tahoe Summit has been a testament to what we can accomplish when leaders across all levels of government come together with conservation experts around one shared purpose,” said Senator Rosen. “Our message today is clear: as drastic climate changes have brought new challenges to conservation efforts, we will continue working across parties and both states to make sure we don’t lose this jewel of the Sierra Nevada.”
The annual event brings Lake Tahoe’s federal delegation together to help ensure Team Tahoe has the resources it needs to support Lake Tahoe’s conservation. Over the past 30 years, federal funding has leveraged hundreds of millions of dollars in state, local, Tribal, and private investments that have delivered more than 900 projects to protect water quality, reduce wildfire risk, restore ecosystems, and support sustainable recreation.
New Book Inspires Readers to Embrace Retirement as Life’s Most Meaningful Chapter
August 25, 2026 | Member Submitted
Fourth Quarter Mindset – The Joy of Living a Happier Life – By Naseer Rana
Fourth Quarter Mindset – The Joy of Living a Happier Life was officially launched during a virtual event attended by family, friends, colleagues, and readers from around the world. Hosted by Stephanie McKibben, the event featured an engaging conversation with author Naseer Rana, readings from the book, and an interactive audience discussion about retirement, happiness, purpose, and healthy aging.
The book presents a refreshing perspective on retirement—not as the end of life’s productive years, but as the beginning of a new chapter filled with freedom, growth, contribution, and joy.
“Too many people spend decades preparing financially for retirement but very little time preparing for how they want to live,” said Rana. “This book is about helping people design a life that is purposeful, meaningful, and joyful during what I call the fourth quarter of life.”
Drawing on his personal retirement journey, more than three decades of international leadership experience, and research from psychology, neuroscience, positive aging, and longevity studies, Rana introduces the Fourth Quarter Mindset—a practical approach that encourages readers to replace fear with opportunity, regret with gratitude, and uncertainty with purpose.
At the heart of the book are Seven Freedoms of the Fourth Quarter, which encourage readers to embrace:
Freedom of time
Freedom to redefine identity
Freedom to deepen relationships
Freedom to discover renewed purpose
Freedom to continue learning
Freedom to simplify life
Freedom to leave a lasting legacy
Throughout the launch event, Rana emphasized that retirement is not simply about leaving a career—it is about creating a life worth living. He encouraged participants to intentionally prepare emotionally, socially, physically, and spiritually for this important stage of life.
The discussion highlighted several practical lessons from the book, including:
Plan for life, not just finances.
Happiness is built through intentional daily habits.
A positive mindset can be developed and strengthened.
Good health and meaningful relationships are more valuable than material wealth.
Small, consistent actions produce lasting change.
One simple habit Rana shared with the audience was beginning every morning by saying:
“It is going to be a great day.”
He explained that this small daily practice helps cultivate optimism and establishes a positive mindset that influences the rest of the day.
The book draws on research from leading studies, including the Harvard Study of Adult Development, Blue Zones research, and findings on the U-shaped happiness curve, all of which suggest that later life can become one of the happiest and most satisfying periods when approached intentionally.
Audience members joined a lively discussion on topics such as preparing emotionally for retirement, balancing financial security with health and relationships, lifelong learning, and whether the book’s lessons apply to younger generations. Rana noted that while the book focuses on retirement, its principles are relevant throughout adulthood because the choices we make today shape the quality of our future lives.
The event concluded with an inspiring message that reflects the central theme of the book:
“The best years of your life are not behind you—they may still be ahead. Every day is an opportunity to grow, serve others, strengthen relationships, and create a lasting legacy.”
Fourth Quarter Mindset – The Joy of Living a Happier Life offers readers a practical roadmap for building a happier, healthier, and more meaningful life by combining scientific research, personal experience, inspiring stories, and simple daily practices.
The book is now available through Amazon in print and Kindle editions, with an audiobook edition planned for release in the coming months.
About the Author
Naseer Rana is a former World Bank Governance Advisor, nonprofit leader, author, and certified life design coach. During a career spanning more than three decades, he worked across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, helping governments strengthen institutions and improve public sector performance. He currently serves as President of Boosting Hope Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding educational opportunities through scholarships, mentoring, and college success programs for underserved students.
Inspired by Stanford University’s Designing Your Life methodology, Rana now helps individuals view retirement as a time of renewal, purpose, and continued growth. He and his family live in the Lake Tahoe region, where he enjoys hiking, lifelong learning, and spending time with family and friends.
For more information, visit Amazon by searching “Fourth Quarter Mindset – The Joy of Living a Happier Life” by Naseer Rana.
In the News – Incline Wine + Food Lake Tahoe 2026: A vintage-inspired celebration of Napa Valley Estate Wines
August 22, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 8/22/2026, Staff Report
Incline Wine + Food Lake Tahoe returns for its 4th annual flagship weekend from August 28–30, 2026 along the “Sierra Riviera”, blending the timeless elegance of “Old Tahoe” with the world-class heritage of 16 Napa Valley family estate wineries, featuring Laurent-Perrier as the Exclusive Champagne Partner.
Taking place at a private 6-acre lakefront estate in Incline Village, Lake Tahoe’s flagship wine + food weekend offers guests three tiers of access: the ultra-limited Grand Reserve La Paulée multi-event pass, the VIP Reserve single-day pass, and Estate general admission.
The Destination for Napa Valley Family Estate Wine Enthusiasts
“By focusing on family-owned Napa Valley estates each with a unique heritage at a private lakefront venue, we’ve established Incline Wine + Food as the definitive flagship wine weekend for the Lake Tahoe region,” says Founder Daniel Clark. “It’s a celebration of the unique heritage, legacy, craft, and community that defines both Napa Valley and Lake Tahoe.”
Enjoy an evening outdoors while helping Washoe County better understand the quality of our night skies. Washoe County is looking for volunteers to take simple nighttime observations as part of a community science project that will help guide future dark skies planning. The survey will establish a baseline of existing sky darkness and inform upcoming updates to Washoe County lighting code relating to dark skies.
Participants will:Visit one assigned location in Washoe County at night between Wednesday September 9th and Sunday September 13th Measure the darkness of the night sky using simple instructions.
Enjoy an evening under the stars while contributing to an important community projectNo experience is needed and everyone is welcome! Sign up to participate and learn more about Washoe County’s dark sky code update project. After you sign up, we’ll send you everything you need, including a training invite, your survey location, and easy step-by-step instructions.
In The News – 30 years of activism celebrated at Tahoe Summit; leaders discuss the next 30
August 21, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 8/21/2026, written by Katelyn Welsh
Team Tahoe is now looking to the next 30 years after celebrating the 30th Tahoe Summit at Sand Harbor State Park on Wednesday, Aug. 19.
U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) hosted the annual event at the park’s amphitheater, where attendees heard from other lawmakers and regional leaders on the successes over the last three decades and their vision for the next 30.
Participants also heard from U.S. rock climber and Tahoe resident, Tommy Caldwell, who provided the summit’s keynote speech.
Start the School Year Safely: Back-to-School Safety Reminders
August 21, 2026 | Member Submitted
As students head back to the classroom, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is reminding everyone to use a little extra caution on our roads and around our schools.
The start of the school year means more students walking and biking, increased activity at bus stops and crosswalks, and more traffic during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. With more students also using e-bikes to get to and from school, it is especially important for both drivers and riders to slow down, stay alert, and be aware of their surroundings.
A few extra seconds of patience and attention can make a big difference in keeping our students safe.
Important Safety Reminders
For Drivers:
Slow down and follow posted speed limits in school zones and neighborhoods.
Watch for students at crosswalks, intersections, and bus stops.
Obey school bus signals and never pass a bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
Give bicyclists and e-bike riders plenty of space.
Put phones and other distractions away while driving.
For Students & Parents:
Review and practice a safe route to and from school.
Use sidewalks and designated crosswalks whenever possible.
Stop, look both ways, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Wear a properly fitted helmet when riding a bicycle or e-bike.
Stay visible, avoid distractions, and follow the rules of the road.
E-bike riders should ride at a safe speed and stay alert for vehicles, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Review the safest route to and from school before the first day.
Backpacks:
Use both shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly.
Keep backpacks light. The National Safety Council recommends backpacks weigh no more than 5% to 10% of a child’s body weight.
A Message from NLTFPD
Back-to-school safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you are behind the wheel, walking to class, riding a bike or e-bike, or dropping a student off at school, we all have a role in helping students get where they are going safely.
“A few extra seconds can make all the difference. Slow down, put the distractions away, and take the time to look for the student in the crosswalk, getting off the bus, or riding alongside you,” said Fire Chief Sommers. “Keeping our students safe is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role in making sure they get to and from school safely.”
On behalf of everyone at NLTFPD, we wish our students, families, teachers, and school staff a safe, healthy, and successful school year.
In the News – A Seat at the Table: Lake Tahoe’s Best Family Owned Restaurants
August 20, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 8/20/2026, Written by Madison Schultz
Some of the best meals come with a sense of familiarity. The kind of meals you return to year-round, especially in Lake Tahoe. More often than not, those familiar favorites are family-owned and operated; run with intention, integrity, and a whole lot of heart.
From old school institutions to laid-back neighborhood staples, these restaurants aren’t just feeding Tahoe; they have been part of the fabric of Tahoe communities for decades. Here are some of the best family-owned and operated spots around the lake, each with its own legacy worth pulling up a seat to the table for.
T’s Mesquite Rotisserie, Incline Village
A staple in Incline Village since 1991, T’s Mesquite Rotisserie is a family-run operation that has built a loyal following through simple, consistently well-executed fare.
Originally published with Keep Tahoe Blue – Newsletter 8/19/2026
Lake Tahoe’s future has never depended on one solution.
It depends on collaboration that lasts, science that guides action, and people who keep showing up when the next threat reaches the shoreline, forest, or boat ramp.
That spirit will be on full display today, August 19, when the 30th annual Lake Tahoe Summit returns to Sand Harbor. Hosted this year by U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen, the Summit marks three decades of leaders, scientists, Tribal voices, environmental advocates, agencies, and community members working across boundaries for the Lake. Keep Tahoe Blue is proud to have been deeply involved from the start.
The annual tradition began in 1997 with a visit from President Clinton and Vice President Gore that helped launch a new era of bi-state collaboration at a time when Lake Tahoe’s clarity was in decline. Today, that partnership continues through the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program, which brings together more than 80 partners and has delivered more than 900 restoration projects across the Basin.
That progress matters. So do the challenges ahead.
This month, we’re looking at resilience in action, new tools to contain invasive weeds, stronger defenses against golden mussels, wildfire preparedness during a hot, dry summer, and a chance to double your impact for Lake-saving work.
This summer, we’ve been conducting interviews with our partners through our social media series, Cultivating Community: Partner Perspectives. Through these conversations, we’ve learned a lot from our community partners about the work being done on the ground to support community members, especially our workforce, who are struggling, as we heard time and again, primarily with housing costs.
We also learned more about the programs that already exist across the Basin, the extent of this issue across both the North and South Shores, and the need for collaboration as a way to maintain the fabric of our community.
To watch these interviews, visit our Community Academy. Three interviews are up so far, featuring Sarah Schmidt from the Tahoe Prosperity Center, Jody Wright from Tahoe Family Solutions, and Jean Diaz from Saint Joseph Community Land Trust.
Read on to hear about Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin project updates and an upcoming opportunity to get engaged.-Kaley Arboleda, Assistant Planner
