In The News – The Most Effective, Low-Cost Ways to Harden Your Home Against Wildfire
May 6, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Moonshine Ink, 04/09/2026, Written by Sofia Huston
In the wake of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, investigators documented entire blocks where most homes were destroyed while a few remained standing — and it wasn’t random luck. Closer inspection revealed consistent differences in the materials, attachments, and surrounding conditions that influence wildfire resilience.
This pattern is observed repeatedly after major wildfires. Most homes are destroyed when wind-blown embers ignite materials on or near the structure or enter through small openings. Fire takes hold and spreads rapidly.
Here in Truckee, wildfire is part of the landscape. It’s not a question of if a fire will occur, but when. Wind can launch embers miles ahead of a blaze. During major events, firefighters cannot be everywhere at once. Homes must be able to withstand embers on their own.
Celebrate Mom Locally in Incline Village & Crystal Bay
May 6, 2026 | Kristin Derrin
Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to slow down, soak in Tahoe, and celebrate the moms and mother figures who do it all. Whether you’re planning a relaxed brunch, browsing local shops, or picking out something thoughtful, Incline Village and Crystal Bay have plenty of ways to make the day feel special.
Start with Brunch
Treat Mom to a laid-back Tahoe morning with a great meal and even better views. Local favorites are offering everything from cozy café vibes to elevated dining experiences.
The Grille at the Chateau has brunch for Mom, make sure to make a reservation: 775.832-1178.
Check out Sage Leaf Tahoe, Crosby’s, Hyatt brunch at Osteria Sierra, as well as Tunnel Creek Cafe, and Happy Tiers Cafe for treats.
Looking for something a little different this year? Start the day with movement and mimosas at Tahoe Fitness Loft.
Join their Mother’s Day Open House on Sunday, May 10 from 9am–12pm, featuring group Pilates and Barre classes from 8am–12pm, plus mimosas and treats served. It’s a fun and energizing way to celebrate together.
Check out The Sanctuary Tahoe for yoga, pilates, and movement classes and think about booking in a massage. https://thesanctuarytahoe.com/
Stillwater Spa at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is always a great idea!
Skip the last-minute scramble and explore local shops for something a little more meaningful. From boutique finds to handmade goods, shopping local adds a personal touch Mom will appreciate.
Whether it’s home décor, self-care items, or something unique you won’t find anywhere else, there’s no shortage of thoughtful options around town.
Thoughtful Gifts from Local Shops
The Potlatch A longtime favorite, The Potlatch offers Lake Tahoe-inspired jewelry, cozy apparel, and home décor. Their turquoise pieces and signature necklaces are perfect for moms who love a touch of the Sierra spirit.
Forever Rox This family-owned jeweler specializes in custom diamond and gemstone creations. Owner John Roxburgh crafts timeless pieces, including popular diamond hoop earrings that make for a memorable gift.
Tahoe Gifting Co. Now with a storefront in Christmas Tree Village, this woman- and veteran-owned business curates personalized gift boxes that capture the essence of Lake Tahoe.
Golf Incline:Looking for a gift for Mom? The Championship golf shop staff is happy to help you shop and pick out a great gift. For non-golfers, there are some great options like Incline Village logoed drinkware, accessories, and activewear that can be worn around town, on the trails, on a boat, on the beach, etc.
Fresh Blooms from Wyld Peony: For a vibrant floral arrangement, visit Wyld Peony in Incline Village. They offer a stunning selection of bouquets that can brighten Mom’s day and home.
Don’t Miss: Thrift Store Mother’s Day Sale
Looking for a great find and a great deal?
The local thrift store is hosting a Mother’s Day Sale from Wednesday, May 6 through Saturday, May 10—perfect timing to pick up something special while supporting a good cause.
Make a Day of It
Turn Mother’s Day into a full Tahoe experience. Take a walk by the lake, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and spend quality time together. It doesn’t have to be overplanned; sometimes, the simplest moments are the most meaningful.
Book in for Fun: Iron and Wood Book Mom a session at Iron & Wood to get ready for the golf season. Fun for the whole family, enjoy friendly competition with family and friends, and improve your skills on our state-of-the-art indoor Trackman iO golf simulator, the same technology used by the PGA Tour and many professionals worldwide.
However you choose to celebrate, supporting local businesses helps keep our community vibrant. From brunch tables to boutique shelves, there are so many ways to make Mother’s Day feel special right here in Incline Village and Crystal Bay.
Maybe it’s a Hallmark moment, but Mother’s Day, this Sunday, evokes memories from those childhood years, both for me as a child and as a mom with young children. Remember breakfast in bed? Those cute ceramic handprints or homemade cards? Going for brunch at the Hyatt used to be our tradition, too. The kids wore their Easter outfits again and found their “company behavior”.
My 3 kids are in their early thirties now, with careers and the things one can do before children come along. Instead of waiting for grandchildren, I am finding opportunities to spend time with babies and young children who don’t mind having an extra grandma around!
No brunch at the Hyatt anymore, but I want to share a couple of other experiences there that are a family-friendly special treat. Last week, I went to the Hyatt’s Pasta Hour with Kristin Derrin, along with her two kids, Alexa and Jaydin. We watched them make pasta and then sampled it, along with charcuterie. Adults got to sample wine too…. all complimentary!
Here’s another fun thing: Afternoon tea on the weekends. Again, this brings back memories…my kids loved tea parties. In a time when dress and occasions are so casual, Afternoon Tea at the Hyatt can be a mini experience, maybe even a Mother’s Day treat.
Mother’s Day Brunch at the Grille at the Chateau! Call to make a reservation: 775.832-1178.
As a prelude to Restaurant Week coming up on May 16-25, I want to highlight some Incline restaurants.
At the Hyatt, Osteria has a great breakfast buffet, but also try their elegant Italian dinners. Cutthroats is very family-friendly and feels like a new place for great burgers.
Big Water Grille: dinner and sunset is a great idea for Mother’s Day or anytime!
Sage Leaf and Crosby’s never disappoint. Tunnel Creek is a great brunch spot as well.
The cinnamon rolls at Happy Tiers are legendary… why not pick some up on Saturday for that breakfast-in-bed?!
Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers out there!
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IVCBA is the Community and Business Association that promotes our local businesses and nonprofits, organizes community events, and produces the Weekly SnapShot! If you are a subscriber and regular reader, please join as a Community Supporter for $50. If you are not a subscriber, do for free! Go to IVCBA.org. We are financially supported by our local agency “investors”, and our business community and residents. Please help!JOIN HERE
Across the Tahoe Basin, restoration and protection work is always underway. But without storytelling, its impact can go unseen. It’s the stories behind the work that help people see, understand, and care about what’s happening.
Tahoe In Depth takes readers into the heart of environmental action. Published by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and featuring stories from partners across the region, each edition highlights the people, projects, and partnerships working together to protect and restore Lake Tahoe.
Here’s a look inside the award-winning newspaper, and the ways it helps inspire stewardship and keep people connected to Tahoe’s future.
Protecting, Enjoying, and Exploring the Tahoe Basin
Endangered wolves making a comeback. Crews working year-round to reduce wildfire risk. Ongoing efforts to protect Lake Tahoe from invasive golden mussels, one of the region’s most serious emerging threats.
These narratives are shaping the future of the Tahoe Basin, and Tahoe In Depth helps bring them into focus.
Many of the stories throughout the publication underscore the importance of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP), a collaborative partnership behind environmental investments across the region.
The publication also regularly features the policies and science that shape the region’s future. From technical updates like forest health thresholds to practical, everyday guidance such as “car-free, care-free” travel, the paper helps clarify how regional priorities connect to Tahoe’s health and quality of life in the basin.
Just as important, it captures progress over time. Nearly 30 years into the EIP, Tahoe In Depth serves as a record of action.
The latest issue, for example, highlights the Santini-Burton Modernization Act, building on coverage of the legislation in a 2016 issue (p. 7). Together, the two articles show how foundational policies continue to evolve to meet today’s needs.
Tahoe In Depth reflects Tahoe’s approach to environmental stewardship, where restoration, protection, and awareness are all part of a shared, long-term strategy.
Photos by: California Department of Fish & Wildlife (right) and Marine Taxonomic Services, an N|V|5 company (left)
As the seasons shift and the Sierra landscape begins to bloom and awaken, we are leaning into the energy of renewal and rejuvenation. This May, we are thrilled to offer several distinct ways to support your journey back to your most vibrant self.
First, we invite you to explore the Sovereign Reset, a 30-day immersion led by Dr. Kathleen Harley, N.D., designed to clear the “winter fog” through Naturopathic science and sound healing.
Alongside this deep dive, we’ve refreshed our May Class Schedule with new mid-week flows and weekend connection classes to ensure you have the space to move, breathe, and reset…no matter how busy your week looks.Keep reading below for more details, and for a very special treat from our very own Belle Johnson…
UPCOMING WORKSHOP —
Reclaim Your Vitality: Sovereign Reset (still space available) with Dr. Harley at The Sanctuary TahoeReady to step into your most vibrant self this spring? Join us at The Sanctuary in Kings Beach to learn more about Sovereign Reset, a 30-day immersion designed to reset your nervous system and reclaim your vital energy. Led by Dr. Kathleen Harley, N.D., and Caitlin Sophia, the program bridges Naturopathic science with sacred sound, featuring:
Weekly Coaching: Vagus Nerve resets and stress management.Apothecary & Tea: Custom organic tea service and homeopathic support.Sound Integration: Weekly healing journeys to harmonize your frequency.
Meet the Doctor: Dr. Kathleen Harley is a Naturopathic Doctor with over 14 years of experience specializing in integrative medicine, detoxification, and mind-body healing.
Learn More
Interested? Join us for the Sovereign Reset Free Introductory Meeting on Sunday, May 3rd @ 3pm to experience a mini-Vagus Reset and learn how this 30-day journey can transform your health. This is still open if you missed the introductory meeting. Reach out to the Sanctuary Tahoe: https://thesanctuarytahoe.com/
SCHEDULE UPDATE — Fresh Ways to Move
You asked, and we listened. Starting this May, we’re introducing a refreshed lineup of classes designed to help you move, reset, and reconnect exactly when you need it most. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy morning or a mindful mid-day break, there’s a spot on the mat waiting for you.
Mid-Week Movement —Yogalates | Janelle Hibler Tuesdays, 11:45am – 12:45pm Where strength meets flow. This mindful fusion of yoga, Pilates, and barre-inspired movement builds core stability and mobility. Expect an intentional, breath-led practice that leaves you feeling steady and strong.
Heated Vinyasa | Lucas Lansing Wednesdays, 8:30am – 9:30am Turn up the heat. This dynamic, breath-linked flow uses sun salutations and energizing music to build flexibility and focus. The room is gently heated to support a deeper release. All levels welcome.
Yoga Roots | Janelle HiblerWednesdays, 10:30am – 11:30amWhere movement meets meaning. Yoga Roots weaves breath and yoga philosophy into an intelligently guided, embodied flow. Deepen your awareness and find clarity through this grounded practice.
Mid-Day Express | Janelle Hibler: Wednesdays, 12:30pm – 1:15pm Pressed for time? This 45-minute “power reset” delivers a complete, intentional practice in a condensed format. Efficient sequencing designed to leave you recharged for the rest of your afternoon.
The Weekend Transition — Align and Revive | Rachel Meisler: Fridays, 12pm – 1pmThe ultimate Friday reset. Release the week’s buildup through slow, mindful movement and intentional long holds. Step into your weekend feeling clear, steady, and light.
Growing Together (Ages Newborn–4) | Eva Greenberg: Saturdays, 11am– 12pm A playful, child-led space for little ones and their caregivers. Led by educator and doula Eva Greenberg, this class supports early development through exploration and movement in a warm, welcoming community environment.
4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament to Support Service Members Mental Health
May 1, 2026 | Member Submitted
Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW! will host its 4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament on June 15, 2026, in Incline Village at the Championship Course, bringing together community members and supporters to raise funds for service members mental health services.
PTSD NOW! is dedicated to providing immediate, no-cost access to mental health care for veterans, with a mission to reduce suicide and improve long-term wellbeing. Through programs like Purple Resolve and Onward Ops, the organization continues to expand its reach across multiple states, ensuring that those who served have access to the care they deserve, when they need it most.
The 4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament is more than just a day on the course, it’s a meaningful opportunity to give back. Proceeds from the event directly fund therapy services for service members, helping eliminate financial barriers and providing life-changing support.
“We are honored to host this event in a place as special as Lake Tahoe,” said Craig Rauchle, President of PTSD NOW!. “Every dollar raised helps us provide immediate access to therapy for service members who might otherwise go without care. This event is about community, awareness, and action.”
Participants will enjoy a full day of activities, including:
18 holes of golf at a premier Championship Course in Incline Village
Service Member recognition moments
On-course contests and prizes
Post-tournament reception and auction
Local businesses and organizations are also invited to participate through sponsorship opportunities, helping amplify the event’s impact while aligning with a cause that directly supports the military community.
Event Details:
Event: 4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament
Date: June 15, 2026
Location: Championship Course in Incline Village
Host: Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW!
Registration & Sponsorship:
Spots are limited. To register or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact: Courtney Goodballet
In The News – Incline Village roundabout planned for improvements
April 29, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 04/29/2026, Written by Katelyn Welsh
The Incline Village roundabout at the intersection of Mount Rose Highway and Tahoe Blvd will soon undergo improvements.
Known for its bronze animals, the talent of local artist June Brown, the roundabout was installed in 2012 as part of the Nevada Department of Transportation’s effort to improve roadways on the North Shore.
Over the years, invasive plants have overrun the roundabout and irrigation issues have prevented planted perennials from thriving. The sculptures and the traffic circle, with its low-mound design, have also been subject to car crashes.
Improvements focus on the safety and aesthetics of the roundabout, including raising the mound, adding irrigation, and incorporating elements that reflect the Tahoe East Shore’s natural beauty, such as granite boulders, fir and aspen trees, and a succession of perennials.
The project represents a public-private collaboration with strong community involvement and fundraising efforts to bring the vision to life.
FW Carson, the contractor, is raising the mound at the roundabout to make it more visible to drivers. The next step will be to add nature’s own art, with iconic granite boulders, as the focal point of the roundabout. The boulders are donated by Realberry, the owner of the Cal Neva (under revitalization), and SMC/SNC, the contractor moving the boulders to the roundabout. The boulder placement is scheduled for next week.
The original roundabout was installed by NDOT in 2014 with the bronze animals created by artist June Brown and paid for by various community members. The bronze animals will remain on the roundabout, but in a safer and more visible location. History of the Roundabout HERE
The new design will add irrigation to support a succession of blooming perennials from April to October. A fir tree and aspens, along with some shrubs, will also be installed.
This is arguably the biggest single event to bring community members together with students from all of the schools. It is an hour-long lip-syncing show that will have you wondering, “How can I be in it next year?” And it’s for a good cause. Thanks to Mary Danahey and Sharon Shrage at Incline Education Fund and Kathie Goldberg and the Follies board for making it all happen.
LIKE WHAT YOU READ?
IVCBA is the Community and Business Association that promotes our local businesses and nonprofits, organizes community events, and produces the Weekly SnapShot! If you are a subscriber and regular reader, please join as a Community Supporter for $50. If you are not a subscriber, do for free! Go to IVCBA.org. We are financially supported by our local agency “investors”, and our business community and residents. Please help!JOIN HERE
In The News – Boat Launch at Sand Harbor State Park to open without docks following storm damage
April 29, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 4/29/2026, Staff Report
The boat launch at Sand Harbor State Park is scheduled to open for the season on Friday, May 1, 2026, though visitors should be aware that no docks will be available at the launch due to storm damage sustained during an April weather event.
High winds and rough lake conditions damaged the docks at the boat launch, requiring them to be removed from the water for repairs. Nevada State Parks staff are actively working to fabricate new docks and return them to service as quickly as possible.
In The News – Bridget Giroux Design: Sierra Nevada-inspired sculptural side tables debut as the studio’s first furniture capsule
April 28, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 04/28/2026, Written by Victoria Mastrocola
For centuries, the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains and its stunning landscapes have inspired painters, sculptors, songwriters, and artists alike. It was no different for interior designer Bridget Giroux as she was designing five pieces of furniture.
After living in Chicago for over 13 years, eight of those years spent working under Holly Hunt, industry leader in interior design, Giroux then worked for a retail brand, developing textiles and wallpaper before she found herself making the big move to Tahoe with her husband.
“We were just feeling burnt out of city life,” said Giroux. “It was quite the life change from living in downtown Chicago to moving to Tahoe.” Giroux then saw the opportunity for an interior design studio in the area, and she seized it. “That’s when I pivoted from designing products interior designers were using to actually having my own firm.”
