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Be Part of the Conversation: 2026 Lake Tahoe Business Walks

September 9, 2026 | Member Submitted

What are Tahoe businesses experiencing right now? What challenges are they facing, and what opportunities do they see for the future?

The Lake Tahoe Business Walks are one of the region’s most valuable tools for answering those questions. Every two years, volunteers visit local businesses across the Basin to gather real-time insights that help inform economic development strategies, infrastructure investments, workforce initiatives, and community priorities.This year’s Business Walks will take place the week of October 19, 2026, and we’re looking for volunteers from across the Tahoe Basin to help visit local businesses and collect community insights.

No experience is necessary—we’ll provide training, materials, and a route. It’s a fun way to connect with local business owners while contributing to data that shapes the future of Tahoe. VOLUNTEER

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Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Partners with Local Musicians for Live Music Showcase

September 7, 2026 | Member Submitted

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, an award-winning year-round destination nestled in the stunning natural beauty of North Lake Tahoe’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, partners with musicians to celebrate the diverse talent of local and regional performers. Throughout the year, the resort provides a stage for artists at their Cutthroat’s Saloon.

“Lake Tahoe is home to an incredible community of talented musicians, and we are proud to provide a place where they can share their music with our guests and the local community,” said Pascal Dupuis, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe. “Our lineup features an incredible range of musical styles, from jazz and blues to folk, rock, and reggae creating a unique experience for diners to discover new artists and enjoy longtime favorites.”

This resort’s live music lineup showcases a diverse collection of musicians and musical styles. Featured artists include:

Peter Wilson is an award-winning singer-songwriter and guitarist based in the Grass Valley and Nevada City area. Wilson’s music draws from folk, blues, jazz and jam rock. He has released numerous recordings and is also a member of the Deadbeats, a Grateful Dead tribute band, and a founding member of Paul Emery’s 1000 Kisses Deep which celebrates the music of Leonard Cohen.

Miki Rae is Lake Tahoe-area singer-songwriter known for a feel-good blend of reggae, rock and folk. Performing both as a solo artist and with Miki Rae & The Hooligans, she combines reggae rhythms with psychedelic guitar, ukulele and original lyrics often inspired by nature and the people and experiences around her.

Karrie O’Neill is a singer-songwriter and guitarist whose acoustic performances blend elements of jazz, folk and blues music. Known for her expressive vocals and versatile performance style, O’Neill regularly performs throughout the Lake Tahoe and Reno region and has released several collections of original music.

Erika Paul is an accomplished jazz singer, pianist, songwriter, recording artist, and arranger. Known as “The Jazz Lady,” Paul performs everything from jazz standards to original compositions and has been a longtime fixture of the Lake Tahoe music scene.

Jason King is a renowned singer-songwriter and guitarist whose music draws inspiration from blues, Americana and rock. Influenced by artists such as the Allman Brothers and Led Zeppelin, King is known for his soulful approach to guitar, songwriting and live performance.

Roland Stone is a singer-songwriter raised just outside Lake Tahoe. He grew up in a musical family and developed an appreciation for a wide range of genres and eras. His performances reflect those influences and his passion for using music to create positive, memorable experiences for audiences.

Mic Smith is a singer-songwriter whose sound combines Western, rock and folk influences, Smith spent more than a decade living and performing in South Lake Tahoe. Known for acoustic storytelling and a gritty, rock-influenced sound, he has performed throughout the West Coast, appeared at TEDx events, and released original music inspired by his experiences on the road.

Christopher Hall is a versatile singer and guitarist based in South Lake Tahoe. His performances draw inspiration from rock, pop and alternative music, with a diverse repertoire of covers spanning classic and contemporary artists. Known for his adaptable performance style, Hall performs both as a solo artist and with ensembles, tailoring his music to create memorable experiences for weddings, parties and private events. 

Vincenzo Amato is a singer, guitarist and musician based in the Reno and Lake Tahoe area. His music blends alternative rock, funk, and reggae influences; reflecting his diverse musical background and experience performing with artists across a range of genres. Known for his energetic live performances, Amato performs as a solo artist and with various ensembles, creating dynamic musical experiences.

Before September 10, Cutthroat’s Saloon will feature live music every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., as well as every Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. After September 10, live music will continue every Friday and Saturday from 8.m. to 10 p.m. The September lineup will feature a variety of local and regional musicians performing across genres, creating a lively setting for guests to enjoy throughout the week. 

For more information on meetings and events at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, please visit HyattRegencyLakeTahoe.com, or call (775) 832-1234.

About Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino

Situated among the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the award-winning Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino offers a premier destination based in the nature-infused setting of North Lake Tahoe. The resort is home to an on-site Adventure program offering daily guided activities to help guests explore the Tahoe outdoors with everything from group hikes to meditation sessions. Guests can enjoy premium amenities such as a year-round heated lagoon-style pool, two hot tubs, and a 25,000 square-foot Grand Lodge Casino. The resort also boasts the 20,000 square-foot Stillwater Spa featuring a variety of relaxing massages, facials and body treatments as well as state-of-the-art touchless therapies including the Cryobuilt Cryo Chamber, the “Pearl” revolutionary float orb, and the “Harmony” bioacoustic mat. The property showcases premier dining opportunities at the brand-new Osteria Sierra offering elevated Italian cuisine, pub-style fare at Cutthroat’s Saloon, and grab-and-go selections at Tahoe Provisions. Additional culinary delights include afternoon tea service on the weekends and a selection of world-class pastries created by the resort’s renowned team of pastry chefs. Recognized for excellence, the resort has garnered numerous awards including Travel + Leisure’s 500 Best Hotels in the World, Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best, Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Smart Meetings Smart Stars Awards, and U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotel Awards.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, at 111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village, NV, 89451. For more information, visit HyattRegencyLakeTahoe.com or follow the resort on Facebook or Instagram.

About Hyatt Regency hotels 

The Hyatt Regency brand is a global collection of hotels and resorts found in more than 200 locations in over 40 countries around the world. The depth and breadth of this diverse portfolio, from expansive resorts to urban city centers, is a testament to the brand’s evolutionary spirit. For more than 50 years, the Hyatt Regency brand has championed fresh perspectives and enriching experiences, while its forward-thinking philosophy provides guests with inviting spaces that bring people together and foster a spirit of community. As a hospitality original, Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts are founded on openness—our colleagues consistently serve with open minds and open hearts to deliver unforgettable celebrations, effortless relaxation and notable culinary experiences alongside expert meetings and technology-enabled collaboration. The brand prides itself on an everlasting reputation for insightful care—one that welcomes all people across all countries and cultures, generation after generation.
For more information, please visit hyatt.com

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In The News – Incline Village Community Hospital earns Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation

August 26, 2026 | Member Submitted

Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 8/26/2026, Staff Report

Tahoe Forest Health System announced that Incline Village Community Hospital’s Emergency Department has achieved Level 3 Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).

The bronze-level accreditation recognizes emergency departments that have established practices and resources designed to support the care of older adults. Incline Village Community Hospital’s achievement reflects the collaboration and dedication of its interdisciplinary team and its efforts to continually strengthen emergency care for the community.

“Older adults can face distinct challenges in an emergency setting, and our team is committed to making sure their care reflects those needs,” said Anna Roth, President and CEO of Tahoe Forest Health System. “We are proud of the Incline Village Community Hospital team for earning this accreditation and for the expertise and compassion they bring to caring for our older patients and their families.”

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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.

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What Keeps Tahoe Resilient?

August 19, 2026 | Member Submitted

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. 
WHAT DOES ADVOCACY WORK LOOK LIKE?SUPPORT OUR LAKE-SAVING WORK

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In the News – P.E.O. Chapter AC celebrates 25th annual Tastes of Incline

August 11, 2026 | Member Submitted

Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 08/11/2026, Written by Victoria Mastrocola

 For its 25th year, Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) Chapter AC is hosting Tastes of Incline at the stunning Chateau at Incline Village on August 27 to support women’s education with harmonious wine and mouthwatering delicacies from 17 local restaurants. 

Founded in 1869, the P.E.O. Sisterhood was created by seven female Iowa Wesleyan College students who shared a friendship and an enthusiasm for educational opportunities for women. In 1927, Cottey College was gifted to the Sisterhood by founder Virginia Alice Cottey Stockard. To this day, the college, located in Nevada, Missouri, is the only nonsectarian college in the United States that is solely owned and supported by women. 

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The Local Lens – Exploring Tahoe’s East Shore, With Tahoe Multisport

August 4, 2026 | Member Submitted

Guest Author: JP Donovan, owner of Tahoe Multisport, in Incline Village

The Local Lens highlights the people and businesses that help make Incline Village and Crystal Bay unique. This issue, JP Donovan, owner of Tahoe Multisport, shares why the East Shore Trail has become one of Lake Tahoe’s greatest outdoor experiences—and how everyone can help keep it safe and enjoyable.

When I first heard an old Sand Harbor Story Years ago, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. A coworker told me his father used to visit Sand Harbor decades ago and ride his motorcycle right down to the beach. He’d park nearby, spend the day swimming in Lake Tahoe, and ride home when he was ready. At the time, it sounded like the perfect Tahoe experience.

Things have changed.

Today, Highway 28’s east shore is one of the most visited recreation areas in the Sierra. The informal roadside parking that once existed has disappeared in favor of designated parking areas, improved safety, and better protection of the lake and surrounding environment. While you can no longer pull up to the water in a vehicle, something even better has emerged.

The East Shore Trail.

The trail has opened this incredible shoreline to far more people than ever before. Families with young children, grandparents, visitors who aren’t comfortable hiking rugged terrain, and people of varying fitness levels can all experience the beauty of Tahoe’s east shore without battling highway traffic or difficult dirt trails.

I remember riding sections of the old dirt paths between the highway and the lake years ago. They were beautiful—but they were also rough. I had a couple of crashes that I was fortunate to walk away from. Today’s paved trail has made this coastline dramatically more accessible and enjoyable.

Electric bicycles have taken that accessibility even further.

The climbs that once discouraged many riders are now manageable for almost everyone. One of our favorite recent projects was building an electric tricycle for a 92-year-old rider who wanted to continue enjoying Tahoe by bike. Seeing someone continue exploring the outdoors at that age is exactly why this trail is so special.

With more people using the trail than ever before, courtesy and safety have become everyone’s responsibility.

Here are the reminders we share with every rider before they leave our shop:

Ride at a safe speed for conditions and the people around you.

When passing or encountering other cyclists or pedestrians, alert them of presence with the bell or by greeting them, avoid saying on your right or left as they may misinterpret.

If riding on the shoulder of the road, follow road rules and signal, stopping at stop signs.

Watch for children, pedestrians, runners, leashed dogs and slower riders who may move unpredictably.

Assume another trail user will be around every blind corner.

Look carefully before crossing driveways.

Choose a helmet with proper size and aspect ratio.

If crossing sand/gravel/ice/pine needles, brake/turn before/after.

Never assume motorists are stopping to allow you to cross.

When parking your bike, choose a location that does not impede others.

Just as important as riding safely is respecting everyone else who uses the trail. A smile, a wave, slowing down for others, and showing patience go a long way toward making the trail enjoyable for everyone.

At Tahoe Multisport, we’ve helped thousands of visitors experience the East Shore Trail over the years. Every rental includes a helmet, route recommendations, and a safety orientation because we believe a great ride starts before the wheels begin turning.

Today’s bicycles also allow more people than ever to find the right ride for their adventure. Some riders enjoy a traditional cruiser for the challenge and exercise. Others appreciate the comfort of an electric bike for exploring longer distances. Families can bring children along on cargo bikes, while riders seeking additional stability often find electric tricycles to be an excellent option. Mountain bikes make it easy to continue beyond the pavement and explore Tahoe’s extensive trail network.

No matter what you ride, the destination remains the same.

There’s still something magical about reaching one of Tahoe’s beautiful beaches under your own power, locking up your bike, diving into the clear water, and spending the afternoon by the lake. We may not be parking motorcycles on the sand anymore, but in many ways, today’s East Shore Trail offers an even better way to experience this remarkable place.

Ride safely, be courteous, and enjoy one of the most beautiful bike rides anywhere.

JP with Tahoe Multisport

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2026 Second Quarter – IVCBA Community Update

July 31, 2026 | Kristin Derrin

Welcome to the IVCBA Second Quarter Community Update!

The past few months have been filled with exciting progress, successful events, and meaningful collaboration throughout Incline Village and Crystal Bay. From supporting local businesses and promoting community events to advancing beautification projects and expanding member services, IVCBA continues working to strengthen the place we all live, work, and play. Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished together this quarter.

Communications & Marketing

This quarter focused on increasing member visibility, strengthening IVCBA’s brand, and connecting the community through strategic communications and marketing. Expanded marketing efforts increased awareness of IVCBA, its members, and community initiatives.

Highlights include:

  • Weekly SnapShot newsletter with 60%+ open rates and 15% click rate
  • Coordinated marketing campaign across digital, print, and community partners
  • Enhanced sponsorship recognition and promotional opportunities for community partners

Membership & Programs

Membership growth and engagement remained strong, supported by updated membership tiers and new opportunities for connection.

Highlights include:

  • 13 new members joined | 92 memberships renewed
  • IVCBA took part in Ribbon cutting at both the Tahoe Aesthetician and Barton Health
  • IVCBA Annual Meeting with keynote speaker President Brian Sandoval – April 14

Community Events & Programs

Planning and updates for key programs and events continued to build momentum for the year.

Highlights include:

  • Restaurant Week held on April 16–25 was a resounding success with donations by restaurants made to Boys and Girls Club North Lake Tahoe
  • Media Sponsor for Tua Casa’s Wildfire Mitigation Seminar on May 28
  • Incline Green Clean and Incline Library Block Party on June 13
  • Event promoter for Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration July 2–4
  • Signature event co-sponsored with Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline Local Heroes Parade, along with Community Fair on Village Green

Content & Digital Presence

Efforts focused on providing timely community information, increasing member visibility, and strengthening IVCBA’s digital resources.

Highlights include:

  • Published the Summer edition of LIVE.WORK.PLAY and began production of the Education & Family edition
  • Community Calendar maintained as the area’s central hub for local events
  • Website updates supporting community initiatives, member resources, and event promotion
  • Continued development of marketing materials and digital assets to support memberships, sponsorships, and community programs

Housing Initiatives

IVCBA continues to stay engaged in regional housing efforts and community education.

Highlights include:

  • Ongoing coordination with regional partners on workforce housing solutions
  • Planning for additional Housing Speaker Series programs at UNR Lake Tahoe

Incline Village Main Street Beautification

Main Street initiatives continue to focus on enhancing the look, feel, and connectivity of the community.

Highlights include:

  • Expansion of Inclined to Bloom program (pots and hanging baskets)
  • Exploration of placemaking elements along Tahoe Boulevard
  • Evaluation of trail connectivity and potential improvements

Gateway Roundabout Improvements Complete!

It took more than a Village to improve the Gateway Roundabout with irrigation, trees, plants, and boulders. They have given June Brown’s bronze animal sculptures a better home!

Thank you to:

  • Agencies: NDOT, Washoe County, TRPA, and IVGID
  • Professionals: FW Carson, LeFrancois Engineering, Christine Karnofsky Landscaping Design
  • In-kind donations: Granite boulders from Realberry and SMC Construction, and FW Carson
  • Sierra Giving Circle Donors through Incline Tahoe Foundation, fiscal partner
  • Incline Village Main Street board and volunteers

Upcoming IVCBA Community Events

  • BizBuz Mixer at Pet Network — September 3
  • Washoe Tahoe Leadership Academy — September 23–25
  • Fall Fest at Village Center — October 17
  • Workforce Housing Speaker Series — October 27

IVCBA Team

IVCBA’s core team continues to support community growth, member engagement, and strategic programs throughout Incline Village and Crystal Bay.

  • Michael O’Neill, Operations Manager – Oversees membership, office operations, Biz Buz mixers, member socials, and welcome bags. (mike@ivcba.org)
  • Kristin Derrin, Marketing & Communications Manager – Editor of SnapShot and LIVE.WORK.PLAY; leads all marketing and communications. (kristin@ivcba.org)
  • Julie Malkin-Manning, Events Manager (Sugarpine Events & Marketing) – Coordinates all IVCBA community events. (julie@ivcba.org)
  • Linda Offerdahl, Executive Director – Leads organizational strategy and community partnerships. (linda@ivcba.org)

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The Local Lens: Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival Continues to Innovate, Inspire, and Connect

July 29, 2026 | Member Submitted

Guest ‘Local Lens’ Contributor and IVCBA Member: Lake Tahoe Shakespeare

Few organizations demonstrate the power of arts, culture, and community connection quite like the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. While audiences flock to Sand Harbor each summer for world-class performances, the Festival’s impact extends far beyond the stage, fostering accessibility, innovation, and partnerships that strengthen the broader community.

Now in its 54th Season, the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival has once again captivated audiences with its Mainstage productions of Macbeth and The Heart of Robin Hood. In a recent Reno News & Review feature, reviewer Jessica Santina described the production of Macbeth as a masterful achievement, praising its immersive atmosphere, striking visual design, and exceptional performances. She noted how the production transforms the natural beauty of Tahoe into part of the storytelling experience, transporting audiences from a peaceful summer evening to Shakespeare’s dark and foreboding Scotland. Our Producing Artistic Director, Sara Bruner, and her team have crafted a theatrical experience where every element, from lighting and music to costume and set design, contributes to the emotional intensity of the story. Don’t miss this year’s amazing performances and buy your tickets here or by calling our Box Office Sun-Sat 8:00am-5:00pm at 775-832-1616.


Photo Caption and credit: Macbeth(actor, Jeffery C. Hawkins) and Lady Macbeth(actor, Cassandra Bissell) reunite in the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival production of Macbeth at Sand Harbor, running through August 23rd (Photo by Strotz Photography)

Building Community Beyond the Stage

The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival’s commitment to community engagement is equally evident in our newest partnerships with Liberty Dogs and Keep Tahoe Blue. This season we created opportunities for service dogs in training and their handlers to attend performances, providing critical real-world exposure while supporting the development of future service animals. The partnership highlights our dedication to accessibility and inclusion while creating opportunities to raise awareness for an organization like Liberty Dogs, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.  

We love our venue located at Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park and saw an opportunity to help be stewards of the lake. For the first time, the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival has partnered with Keep Tahoe Blue to create our own Tahoe Blue Crew: Keep Shakespeare Blue.  If you are already a volunteer with us, be sure to join our Tahoe Blue Crew.  On July 5th, we had nine dedicated volunteers join us for our first Keep Shakespeare Blue clean-up and collected 70lbs of trash! Tahoe Blue Crew volunteer shifts are available on Sundays & Thursdays at our venue from 5pm-7:30pm. We have another major clean-up on Aug 13 from 9am-11am. Learn more about Volunteering with the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival here.

Photo Caption: Keep Shakespeare Blue Clean-up on July 5th with our volunteers L to R: Barbara Stonich, Bob Southern, Kathy Southern

 Young Shakespeare Performances July 20-Aug 3 and Final Family Night Aug. 9thThe Heart of Robin Hood

The D.G. Menchetti Education Programs, InterACT and Young Shakespeare, allow us to bring Shakespeare and the performing arts to the youth of our region year-round. InterACT, goes into schools every year and creates a unique curriculum with teachers for students K-12. Every summer, our Young Shakespeare workshop creates an interactive youth adaptation of our Mainstage Shakespeare play with a mix of professional paid actors and school-age performers. This year, you can catch an hour-long, family-friendly, and FREE performance of Macbeth at a local library or partner location near you. Get Showtimes and more information here

If you missed our first two Family Nights, fret not! We have our final Family Night on Aug. 9 for The Heart of Robin Hood. We will be inviting the young and young at heart to face painting, Robin Hood hat making, and other kid-friendly activities before the show. The fun starts at 6pm on Sunday, Aug. 9. The evening’s activities are hosted by our Platinum Sponsor, Tahoe Expedition Academy, who will also have representatives present and information available about their curriculum and programs for students K-12.

A Lasting Impact

Whether through our critically acclaimed productions, community partnerships, or education programs that reimagine how Shakespeare is experienced, the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival continues to demonstrate the important role arts organizations play in building vibrant communities. If you would like to partner with the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, please reach out to our Community Engagement Manager, Jessica Vela, at Jessica@LakeTahoeShakespeare.com

Learn more about our Donor Member benefits here.

Photo Caption: Patty Jansen, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival Board Chair, Jenny Molinelli and son, Jasper, Puppy Outreach Coordinator for Liberty Dogs, Kaci Janson and all their incredible Service Dogs in Training at the July 21st performance of Macbeth.

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Great Futures Productions Presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

July 28, 2026 | Member Submitted

Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning musical comedy comes to the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe

The Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe’s Great Futures Productions is thrilled to present The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, a hilarious musical about friendship, competition, and the power of words, running July 31 – August 2nd, 2026, at the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe Clubhouse in Kings Beach.

Winner of the Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and humor. Featuring a fast-paced, wildly funny, and touching book by Rachel Sheinkin and a truly fresh and vibrant score by William Finn, this bee is one unforgettable experience.

An eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life-un-affirming “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! At least the losers get a juice box. The show is a riotous ride that includes audience participation. Four audience members, who can apply to be guest spellers starting 45 minutes before each show, will get selected to join the live performance. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a delightful den of comedic genius.

Great Futures Productions is the Children’s Theatre Company of the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe. Great Futures Productions creates extraordinary theatre experiences that educate, challenge, and inspire young people and their communities, unleashing the power of curiosity, empathy, and imagination. The program is dedicated to enriching the lives of young people by offering opportunities in the performing arts that engender self-confidence, inspire both individual expression and ensemble teamwork, and provide positive role modeling, thereby encouraging community outreach through quality theatrical productions for children and teens. Each year, Great Futures Productions produces five musicals and one play, including one musical produced in partnership with Incline High School, along with year-round classes in singing, dancing, and acting.

“I chose The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee because it’s one of those rare shows that lets young performers be genuinely, hilariously themselves on stage,” said Sara Turner Carbajal, Director of Great Futures Productions & Performing Arts at the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe. “Every character in this show is a little awkward, a little brilliant, and completely lovable, and that’s exactly the message we want our kids to walk away with: that the things that make you different are often the things that make you shine. It’s also just an incredibly fun show, for our performers and for our audiences, and after the year our cast has put in, they deserve a production that lets them be funny, be vulnerable, and take a real bow.”

Performances of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will take place Friday, July 31 at 7:00 PM, Saturday, August 1 at 2:00 PM, Saturday, August 1 at 7:00 PM, and Sunday, August 2 at 7:00 PM at the BGCNLT Clubhouse in Kings Beach at 8125 Steelhead Ave. Tickets are available at bgcnlt.org.

About Great Futures Productions
Great Futures Productions is the Children’s Theatre Company of the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe, dedicated to enriching the lives of young people through quality theatrical productions, classes, and community outreach in the performing arts.

About the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe
The Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe provides safe, structured, and enriching programming for youth ages 2–18 in Kings Beach, Tahoe City, Truckee, and Incline Village. The Club serves more than 1,700 youth or 1 in 4 local families. The Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe’s mission is to inspire and enable all youth, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible community members.

Media Contact
Siobhan Brady
Director of Donor & Community Engagement
Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe
sbrady@bgcnlt.org

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