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Visitors tour Vikingsholm in late September.
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The state of California plans to take over tours of Vikingsholm and the Hellman-Ehrman mansion and offer no-cost guided visits. We ask why and what it means for the Sierra State Parks Foundation.
a look inside
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Well, it’s happened again. Last year, I wrote about a local Uber driver, who after more than 15 years in Tahoe was moving to Butte County, concluding he’d never be able to afford a home here. Then last month, Patrick, one of my favorite checkers at the grocery store, told me he and his family we’re leaving for Reno for much the same reason. Patrick was actually born and raised in South Lake Tahoe and after a short stint away following high school, moved back to build a life. He found full-time work, got married and has a young child that he looked forward to bringing up in the same community where he grew up. His landlord, however, kept relentlessly raising the rent year after year until it became out of his family’s financial reach. He was unable to find anything else adequate for a reasonable price. He and his wife and child even moved in with family for a while to try and save up money but couldn’t close the gap. People come and people go from Tahoe for all sorts of reasons, as they do from cities and towns all over the place and I wish Patrick all the luck in the world in his new community. Will my life be significantly altered
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The Tahoe Mountain News is a community newspaper serving Lake Tahoe’s South Shore. Distributed FREE everywhere in the community. One copy per person. No article may be reprinted without the permission of the publisher. Send all submissions to: P.O. Box 8974, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96158. (530) 208-7671 • mountainnews2@gmail.com www.tahoemountainnews.net Copyright © 2025 Tahoe Mountain News CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER/PAPERGIRL Heather Gould Edgar Ambriz
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now that I won’t have Patrick to chat with at checkout? Probably not. But he was a community member all the same and is one thread in the tapestry of my life who has been pulled loose for reasons beyond his control. For the first time in many, many years, the Mountain News is not making endorsements in the upcoming local elections. Given more than 20 candidates across several races, we just felt we didn’t have as firm a grasp of all the candidates and all the issues as needed to confidently assert who should be elected. On our website — www. tahoemountainnews.net — we have interviews with all the city council candidates and last month, we ran an in-depth story on the Douglas County Commissioners race, also available on our website. Other news outlets in Tahoe have published interviews and stories about the various candidates and I encourage all voters to do their homework before heading to the polls or dropping off their ballot. I’m interested to see what the electorate decides for our town and what it means going forward. Given the sheer magnitude of people running for office, we didn’t have the time, resources or space to vet all the candidates as thoroughly as we would have liked
Gary Bell Peggy Bourland David Hamilton Trish Tomer
and were unable to confirm some of the tips which came our way. We did run candidates through various court databases. Most had a few traffic tickets, a small claims action here and there, some divorce or child custody proceedings, but not much else for the most part. Last month, city council candidate Doug Williams voluntarily disclosed a few missteps in the past in his interview with the Mountain News. We did find that city clerk candidate Brandi Bannister was arrested and charged with an alleged misdemeanor DUI over the summer, including an enhancement of an alleged blood alcohol level over .20 percent. Bannister was previously found guilty of a misdemeanor DUI in 2019. Our Q&A this month is with El Dorado County elections official Rena Russell as she provides information on how her office operates and what goes on behind the scenes in determining the will of the people. Also in this issue, we wander to the edges of the South Shore in our coverage. Come along as we take you to Fallen Leaf Lake, Tahoe Paradise Park, Vikingholm and Zephyr Cove and tell you what’s going on.
FROM HEATHER.............................................................. 5 POLITICS WITH PEGGY.................................................... 6 Storied building comes full circle.
SINCE YOU ASKED.......................................................... 7 MOUNTAIN NEWS REPORTS ......................8, 13, 17, 24 Jail time for Tamara Wallace?
MOUNTAIN NEWS ELECTION .......................................10 NEWS BRIEFS...............................................................11 MOUNTAIN NEWS STORIES..........................................12 HEARD AROUND TOWN................................................14 MIKE'S MUTTERINGS....................................................16 COVER STORY ...............................................................18 MOUNTAIN NEWS UPDATE...........................................22 COOKING WITH K .........................................................23 MOUNTAIN NEWS Q&A.................................................26 TRISH ............................................................................28 SPOKE JUNKIE..............................................................30 DAVE AT THE MOVIES...................................................32 PARTING SHOT..............................................................35
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We Have Work to Do The 2026 city council race has become a cattle call with a literal “herd” of candidates. The existing council (all of them) have created a climate for change and this almost record-breaking number of candidates is a reflection of that. This is nothing new. We have repeatedly elected people with the hope that they will serve the broader community and often they become the people we can’t wait to replace. We have seven women (that’s a new record) and six men vying for three open seats. There is a Gantt and a Grant, a Dina and a Dyna, two attorneys, a nurse, two so-called business executives, a few newbies to Tahoe, a business owner, an environmentalist, and some big resumes with limited Tahoe experience. There are those who would sell out the community to more VHRs and continued over-tourism, and those who believe that neighborhoods, locals and the environment matter more. I continue to believe that South Lake Tahoe is a community to be protected and not a commodity to be exploited. I will be voting with that in mind.
percent. SLT already has the highest sales tax in the county at 8.75 percent, and this added sales tax would put SLT at 9.125 percent. A “yes” vote would authorize this added sales tax for 30 years with revenue dedicated to emergency services, fire protection, 911 emergency response and (here is the smoking gun) “hospital facilities.” The “hospital facilities” are specifically Marshall Hospital in Placerville that is using firefighters and emergency response to sell this deceptive measure. According to Ballotpedia’s analysis of Measure S, a twothirds (66.67 percent) supermajority vote is required to approve the measure. THIS IS NOT A CAMPGROUND
On September 17, the Douglas County Commissioners heard an appeal, brought by an adjacent property owner, to the socalled “glamping project” off Elks Point Road. When the project was first presented NO on MEASURE S for approval to the TRPA (September 2025), Pay attention to this special interest the developer and their legal representative, measure that proposes to raise sales tax Lew Feldman (using his smoke and mirrors county-wide in El Dorado County by .375 strategy), were vague on design details,
lawn of Carolyn MacRae’s historic 1937 cabin in the Old Al Tahoe neighborhood to celebrate fellow member and community elder Roberta Mason’s 97th birthday. Roberta moved to Tahoe in 1957 when her husband Bob was sent to Tahoe by his company, Design Associates in Concord, California, to set up an office on South Shore. At the time, Roberta was pregnant with their son Scott and life in the mountains, living in a small cabin at Stateline, was challenging. Eventually, they built their own home on Edgewood Circle and later, in 1968, when Bob had started his own architecture firm, they built the company’s office at 976 Edgewood Circle. This is where the story comes full circle. In 2025, law partners Alexis Holmes and Tara Christian purchased the Mason Building and have spent the last year carefully refurbishing the building to a modern version of its Mason-designed midcentury DNA. The grand opening and public viewing was held October 2, with Roberta Mason on hand to share her stories of a building she and her husband built almost 60 years ago. Holmes-Christian Attorneys at Law have made a compelling case that TAHOE HISTORY Tahoe’s history is worth preserving. On the last day of September, the ladies To be continued…. of Soroptimist International gathered on the
making the project seem to be a traditional campground. Later, the Douglas County Planning Commission approved the project, likely based on the TRPA’s approval. When promotional advertising for this glamping resort revealed a much different project, alarms went off and a cascade of questions from the public (like, “How in the hell did this get approved?”) remained unanswered, causing the adjacent property owner to appeal the Douglas County Planning Commission’s decision. The TRPA plan area for this nine-acre parcel allows for recreational uses. One of the permitted uses is a developed campground. The problem is that this proposal is not for a campground. The plans call for a 53-unit, year-round, luxury resort that includes a wedding venue and other resort amenities. The good news: all five Douglas County Commissioners voted to send this project back to the drawing board.
“The houses behind midtown CVS and adjacent to Camp Richardson have posted signs and erected barriers to bar access to the beaches below the high water line. What is the law?” — TimothyDurkin
Public access to the shoreline in the Lake Tahoe Basin depends on which state you are in. The answer is simple in Nevada. Private is always private. It doesn’t matter how high or low the water level is. You are
usually open to the public. “Generally, yes, public access includes passing through—walking along the shoreline, putting a towel down and enjoying the day, and landing by boat or a human powered water device like a
Meadows is another. Fences or other barriers at the water’s edge come with rules the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency will enforce in both states. For starters, permits are required. In California, fences cannot be constructed below the high water line in order to give the public easy access. Other tidbits: • The natural rim of Lake Tahoe is 6,223 feet. • The maximum legal limit is 6,229.1 feet; meaning the lake is completely full and water must be released via the dam in Tahoe City. • The federal government owns the first 6 feet of water no matter the level of the lake, while the individual states own the land under the water. • “A Legal Guide to the Public’s Rights to Access and Use California’s
Navigable Waters” (https://shorturl.at/ wxFbe) has more info. • When Nevada became a state, it recognized 6,223 feet was deemed the high-water mark; with the state owning all land below that figure. “Because Lake Tahoe is operated as a reservoir, when the lake elevation rises above 6,223 feet, portions of private property may be temporarily inundated or flooded and open to navigation,” Jackson said.
GOT A QUESTION?
Email: mountainnews2@gmail.com Mail: P.O. Box 8974, South Lake Tahoe, CA 95618.
Photo Timothy Durkin
This sign posted behind the CVS in the Bijou Center has some misleading information based on California law.
trespassing if you have not been given permission to be on private property. “The public always retains the right to navigate on the water, including entering coves, passing through buoy fields, and moving around private structures. A private property owner cannot prevent the public from navigating past their shoreline,” Jenny Jackson with Nevada Division of State Lands explained. “However, the right to navigate does not grant permission to access private property, including beaches, piers, rocks, breakwaters, or vessels moored to buoys.” The answer in California is completely different. A California Supreme Court ruling in 1986 said the public has the right to be on the sand up to the natural highwater line of 6,228.75 feet at Lake Tahoe. During droughts, a large swath of land is
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kayak,” Sheri Pemberton with California State Lands Commission said. However, people cannot legally walk from the street across private property to access the part of the beach that is public. This became an issue in the Tahoe Keys in 2015 when after 50 years of allowing public access from the street to its whole beach a locked gate went in to permit only homeowners access. This is also why Lakeside Beach can charge a fee to enjoy its sand. People may put up “no trespassing” signs, but it doesn’t mean they are enforceable by law enforcement or in a civil court of law because it’s possible no crime was committed. Connolly Beach, where the Beach Retreat & Lodge used to be that will next spring reopen as Gurney’s Lake Tahoe, has been one of the contentious sites in the city limits. The beach at Tahoe
Mountain News 7
YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE
How long will Wallace spend in jail? Uncertain. Former South Lake Tahoe Mayor Tamara Wallace is looking at 20 years behind bars after she was charged with one count of federal wire fraud last month for embezzling $390,000 from the Lake Tahoe Community Presbyterian Church where she worked as a bookkeeper/administrator. But whether she actually serves that much time is a different question. In wire fraud cases, “the gap between the worst case statutory penalty and a real world sentence can be enormous,” said Dallas white collar criminal defense attorney Michael Lowe on his website. “In practice, federal judges rarely impose anywhere near the statutory ceiling.” Federal sentencing guidelines call for a 10-month to 37-month sentence for a wire fraud crime of Wallace’s magnitude. That range can be increased or decreased based on several possible aggravating or mitigating factors.
Aggravating factors • Substantial hardship. If the offense caused substantial hardship to the victim, sentencing guidelines call for a sentencing increase. According to Presbyterian Church Pastor Greg Hughes, “Wallace’s actions nearly caused our church to close.” Due to Wallace’s theft, the church had to shelve plans to hire a youth minister, cannot donate to broader Presbyterian initiatives and is still carrying debt from loans it was forced to take out to cover costs in the wake of the embezzlement, said Hughes. • Abuse of trust. Wallace was given oversight of the church’s finances and used that position to take advantage of the institution. This could lead to an enhanced sentence. • Embezzlement from a church, religious organization, charity or nonprofit. Stealing from these types of
Photo Courtesy city of South Lake Tahoe
Former Mayor Tamara Wallace
organizations often leads to a longer sentence. Mitigating Factors • Acceptance of responsibility. Wallace Oct. 13 arraignment will be followed by an October 29 change of plea hearing at which she is expected to plead guilty, according to the Sacramento U.S. Attorney spokesperson, Lauren Horwood. A guilty plea could be viewed as a sign of remorse and acceptance of responsibility. In an email to the Mountain News, Hughes wrote that Wallace “has not contacted us, apologized, or made any attempt to repay the church.” • No prior criminal history. Wallace has no known criminal history, however, she was found civilly liable for theft of funds in a 2006 case to the tune of approximately $120,000. In 2021, she was taken back to court for failing to pay back the full amount owed in that case. • Timely repayment of funds. As noted above, so far Wallace has not repaid anything, according to Hughes. At
sentencing, if she is able to show she has or will shortly repay the church, that could result in a more favorable sentence. • Difficult personal history and/or significant mental health challenges. In an open letter admitting to the embezzlement last year, Wallace alluded to a traumatic childhood, the death of her adult son, a suicide attempt and time spent in a psychiatric facility. These facts could be employed to argue for a reduced sentence. Wallace’s final sentence will be determined by a judge who could impose a harsher or more lenient sentence than guidelines recommend at the judge’s discretion. Wallace’s choice to waive a grand jury hearing in her indictment and the change of plea hearing already on the books indicate she has reached a plea deal with prosecutors. Such agreements often involve a guilty plea in exchange for a recommendation of a reduced sentence, though the final decision always rests with the judge. Horwood told the Mountain News she could not comment on any specifics involving the case. Given her particular crime, Wallace could also be eligible for a split sentence, where she spends half her sentence in custody and half on home confinement. She remains out of custody in advance of her court dates. Wallace’s sentence will almost certainly include mandatory repayment of the $390,000 taken and a fine of up to $250,000. A Presbyterian church fundraising campaign to make up for its losses is ongoing, said Hughes, noting an insurance settlement covered only ten percent of the amount taken by Wallace. To donate, text “Restore” to 530-201-3555.
Connecting students with the world of work.
CTE Pathway Highlight: SPORTS MEDICINE at STHS Friday night lights. While the crowd watches the game, a crew of STHS students watches the athletes....tape in hand, ice at the ready. Led by Isaiah Tannaci, the CTE Sports Medicine pathway teaches anatomy, injury care, taping, CPR, and sideline response. By the time students reach Sports Med 4, they are doing internships at Barton Hospital alongside real healthcare pros while earning up to 10 units of college credit through Lake Tahoe Community College. The future of Tahoe healthcare is already getting its reps.
Promising Careers....Starting on the Sidelines
HANDS ON LEARNING
CAREER PATHS
Sports Med 1:
Sports Medicine:
Intro to human anatomy, exercise fitness, athletic training & emergency medicine. Certifications: CPR, AED, First Aid Stop The Bleed, Emergency Medical Responder Work-Based Learning:
4 hr Allied Health Observation
Sports Med 2: Intro to Athletic Training & Physical Therapy. Certifications: CDC “Heads Up” Concussion Training, CPR/AED for Healthcare Providers Work-Based Learning: 20 Student Trainer hrs
Sports Med 3: Intro to Kinesiology, nutrition, biomechanics & research. Project-based learning. Work-Based Learning: 40 Student Trainer hrs
Athletic Trainer Physical Therapy Medical Tech Nurse Physician
Emergency Medicine: EMT Search & Rescue Ski Patrol Paramedic Fire Fighter
Exercise Fitness: Personal Trainer Nutritionist Exercise Physiologist Kinesiology Strength Coach
Sports Med 4: Students complete an Externship at Barton Hospital. A total of 100 hours in eight different departments.
WWW.LTUSD-CTE.ORG 8 Mountain News
@TAHOECTE
TAHOE.CTE Mountain News 9
A little or a lot: candidates collect contributions Six of the 13 candidates for the South Lake Tahoe City Council have attested that they plan to spend no more than $2,000 on their campaigns and therefore do not need to file campaign finance disclosures. Aimi Xistra, Scott Robbins, Nick Piliae, Veronica Morales, Grant McCracken and Heather Horgan attested to minimal expenditures that relieve them of the duty to reveal campaign finances. For the other seven, the most recent campaign finance documents were filed by September 24 and show a mix of contributors and loans in their race for office. The Republican Women of South Lake Tahoe donated $1,500 each to Douglas Williams and Dyna Boen. This organization was the main contributor to Williams, who reported an additional $50 in unitemized contributions. Dyna Boen reported a total of $2985.67 in contributions and later reported an additional $2,000 from Darin
Graphic catalyststuff on Magnific
Jackson and an additional $1,000 from Michael McCrary. For her campaign, Dina Ramaha loaned herself $4,500 and reported $10 in unitemized contributions. Kelly O’Haire reported a total of
$8,279 in contributions, including a $2,000 loan to herself. Her largest contributor was realtor Janin Inman, who donated $600. O’Haire also received a total of $250 from current Councilmember David Jinkens. Gantt Miller reported $4,315 in contributions, including a $2,000 loan to himself. Barton ER Doc Michael Habicht was the largest contributor to Miller’s campaign, giving $350. Erika Gonzalez reported a total of $4,686 in contributions, including $1,625.99 to herself. Her largest contributor was Maria Lopez, who gave $211. John Friedrich reported total contributions of $11,186.65 including an $8,367.65 loan to his campaign. Jack Landy donated $400, the largest contribution Friedrich received. Brandi Bannister and Micelle Davis, the two candidates for South Lake Tahoe City Clerk, both indicated they plan to
spend $2,000 or less. City Treasurer candidate David Olivo is running unopposed. The most recent campaign finance disclosures filed by candidates for Douglas County Commissioner were due July 15. The next filings are due October 15, after the Mountain News deadline. During that time period, Diane Imbach collected a total of $2,245 with her largest contributors being Michael Horvath and Ruth Caywood, who each donated $500. Her opponent, Scott Morgan, showed $4,039.97 in contributions, including $2,500 from the South Tahoe Alliance of Resorts, which includes Harrah’s, the Golden Nugget, Bally’s, Caesar’s Republic, Heavenly and Edgewood. Morgan also received $500 from the current Douglas County Commissioner, Wes Rice.
ZC Resort improvement underway An eight-year improvement plan at Zephyr Cove Resort is under way, with work this fall expected to include shoreline bluff fencing, parking, path accessibility, sanitation/wastewater system and pedestrian bridge work at a cost of approximately $750,000. Aramark, the concessionaire since
systems. • Replace Sunset Bar and Grille building. • Renovate Zephyr Shoals caretaker cabin. • Repave parking areas. • Define hiking trails at Zephyr Shoals and reduce user-created trails.
Photo Kathryn Reed
The Sunset Bar and Grille at Zephyr Cove Resort is expected to be replaced in 2027.
1999 whose current 20-year special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service expires in 2043, will be footing most of the bills. “The Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and Aramark Destinations are working closely together to develop the plans for each project proposal,” Daniel Cressy, LTBMU public services staff officer, said. “The projects will be paid for by Aramark as defined in their special use permit; many of the projects are using fee offset funds.” The Granger-Thye Act of 1950 allows concessionaires at government-owned facilities to offset annual land use fees by making improvements at the site they manage. Possible future projects: • Upgrade existing facilities, including cabin roofs, restaurant equipment, renovating the housekeeping/maintenance facility, replacing lodge windows and roof, and upgrading water and sewer
10 Mountain News
• Extend the lakeshore bluff footpath to connect Zephyr Cove to Zephyr Shoals with a pedestrian bridge. • Construct a permanent restroom and install utilities at Zephyr Shoals. • Install new picnic tables in beach and campground areas. • Continue collaboration with emergency response agencies to expand the pier. Cost estimates for future projects were not provided. In spring 2024 the public weighed in on proposed plans at the Nevada resort. Much of the consternation then centered on the Forest Service’s desire to develop Zephyr Shoals (aka the former Dreyfus Estate), which abuts Zephyr Cove Resort to the east. LTBMU and Aramark proposed a camping area with 20-30 walkin sites and 30 glamping tents, an event plaza, store, catering kitchen, public restrooms and a lot of pavement for parking. The public essentially won that
Photo Kathryn Reed
A foot bridge at Zephyr Cove Resort is one of the first items on the repair list.
round. “At this time, no development is planned for Zephyr Shoals,” Cressy told the Mountain News. “An event center and camping facilities are not currently being considered in the Zephyr Shoals area.” Prior to the current contract, Aramark was not responsible for Zephyr Shoals. This popular stretch of beach is less than a mile long. It’s a contentious swath of land because people like to party
there, often leaving behind trash. A neighborhood borders the vacant parcel. In 2001 the feds took over full responsibility of the 81-acre parcel that at the time had a more than 10,000-squarefoot structure on it. The building, constructed in 1985, was demolished in 2019. LTBMU has owned the 252-acre Zephyr Cove Resort since 1979 when it bought the land for $4.9 million.
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Laying the foundation of my future history Publisher’s note: This is one in a series of stories written about immigrants living on the South Shore.
Decades after the invasion of America, the loss of indigenous land, the 19th century Protestant conquest expansion of the United States, and the boundary setting of whiteness, the Latinx community has experienced a loss of awareness and understanding of their communities’ history. Thus, resulting in a community of individuals, like me, who perceive their self-image, values, and worth through the eyes of the dominant group. Yet, this contradicts the feeling of not being Latin enough, which is where the Latinx community exists— within the grey area. No soy de aquí, ni soy de allá. I was born in South Lake Tahoe, my mom was born in El Salvador, and my father was born in Mexico. Growing up in a predominantly white area, it was almost impossible not to be perceived as “not from here” and I immediately understood I was considered the “other.” Yet, I wasn’t Latin enough because I couldn't speak fluent Spanish either. To be honest, I would be lying to myself if I didn’t acknowledge all the contradictions regarding my identity. In hindsight, reminiscing on the blissful moments before my education
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on the system, it was almost as if I were a personification of a white man's idea. For example, I was a young Latin male getting into fights, drinking, smoking, and the only thing I perceived as success was money. To put it simply, I was exhibiting characteristics of the system and how it was built on violence and entrepreneurship. I started to internalize the history that rejected my identity. During that stage of life where I believe I was a personification of a white man's idea, it was in hindsight a coping mechanism. Though there are plenty of possibilities regarding how this mechanism can play out. For example, I would argue that the same guilt and shame that keeps white individuals from confronting race and acknowledging history can be correlated to Latinx individuals who are pro-Trump or pro the U.S. system in general. For instance, Latinx individuals feel discomfort when
acknowledging the rejection and oppression we have faced and continue to face, which I would say results in a dissociative disorder. Dissociative disorder involves involuntary disruptions in memory, identity, consciousness, or perception. Thus, the history of the Latinx community triggers overwhelming stress, which enables Latinx individuals to code switch and act as the oppressor, becoming a stranger to oneself. If my theory is correct, then the cure to this “dissociative disorder” is a critical analysis of Latinx history. I will die on this hill because I have experienced it firsthand by being privileged enough to get a higher education, and it has opened my eyes to the bars that all racial ethnic people in the U.S. are imprisoned by, but unable to perceive. For example, I have been imprisoning myself with the use of my language and identify myself as Hispanic — unaware that the term “Hispanic” was created for bureaucratic reasons as in dividing people and reinforcing the racialized social order that describes the differences in race, implying who is inferior and superior. Additionally, it created the false narrative that Latinx individuals are “foreign” to land that was seized in 1776 and expanded until 2010, leaving no Indian homelands present. The internalization of this history runs deep when I think back to elementary school and was taught to pledge allegiance to the flag and how Christopher Columbus
“discovered” America. The revolution truly starts within the mind of a child, as we were introduced to whitecentered narratives within children's books and taught a history that glorifies colonizers and erases the truth of our people. We are taught to abide by the same system that casts us out. We become our own enforcer, our own oppressor, leaving it up to all racial ethnic people in the U.S. to individually free themselves, then collectively liberate and empower the community. This definitely empowers me because I recognize that this intentional erasure of history and internalization is what produces the notion that puts myself at blame for not being Latin enough. It is a heavy weight to carry, knowing that there is still a cathedral of work to be done for all racial ethnic people in the U.S. to have economic equity and equal opportunity. I say cathedral because it takes decades to build one and often the workers who start it won't live to see it completed. I believe foundations have been laid, and it is up to me and the following generations to continue the construction. In this case, history has become the student and all racial ethnic people in the U.S. are the study. This is because history isn’t an accumulation of facts. It has a consciousness if it were written by the victors, as in the colonizers, meaning how it is told is the way it views its subjects, as in the marginalized communities. I'm finally comprehending that it isn’t all black and white. In fact, I am stepping out of the grey area as well and onto “terra incognita,” unknown land, creating a personal map of possibilities and identifying myself on my own terms. Growing up in South Lake Tahoe, a well-known tourist attraction, it was clear to see that the system exploits our labor and rejects our identity. In fact, Tahoe business owner Parker Alexander called immigrant parents criminals and said, “These illegally bred children
will grow up with the influence of their criminal parents. We have to cut the dragon’s head off at the head.” The entirety of South Lake Tahoe runs on Latinx labor, yet the community has faced continuous hatred and rejection. The contradiction here is belittling because I understand that most corporations and businesses in America hold the same values, which keep all ethnically racial people in the U.S as the “other.” We, individuals, must still participate and work for these places for our survival. In addition to a critical analysis of Latinx history, I believe we need more individuals who create dangerously. First, we must instill the courage to create because creation is the destruction of old with the creation of new. Personally, my advantages stem from being creative and a sharp writer, so ultimately, I would hope to continue to use writing in any medium to help all racially ethnic people navigate out of the grey area and onto a journey of their own. As for my own navigation with my identity, I have come to embrace it but will take the steps to lessen the contradictions displayed as well as learn more about my history and people. I would say that I started my higher education in sociology out of curiosity, merely scratching the surface. As I continued to learn more, I became a muckraker, digging up dirt. Now I have hit the bottom and see mosaic floors that represent the multiracial, multinational ancestry. As the great hip hop emcee Black Thought stated, “It takes two to make anthropology, the student and the study, that being the case it is time for the study to examine the student and to evaluate its own self.” I am no longer a subject to history; I am an active member of a future that rejects a false, white-centered narrative on history. Edgar Ambriz is a native of South Lake Tahoe who is attending UC Santa Cruz.
Tour Vikingsholm for free in 2027 Beginning next year, tours of Vikingsholm and Hellman-Ehrman mansions will be free because the state is resuming operations of the programs.
in the Sierra District. “My understanding is that originally the tours were free, then for a while State Parks charged a nominal fee, around $2,
Park, D.L. Bliss State Park, Sugar Pine Point State Park, Tahoe State Recreation Area, Burton Creek State Park, Donner Memorial State Park, and Kings Beach State
Tour guide Susan on Sept. 30 points out the more than 90 dragons inside and outside of Vikingsholm.
The nonprofit Sierra State Parks Foundation had been conducting the tours on behalf of the state since 2012 as California at that time could not afford to do so due to its financial mess. “At the time, the arrangement was intended to be temporary and, in the years since, a few things have changed. First, Sierra District has been able to build its staff of professional interpreters. Second, Gov. Gavin Newson launched his (2021) Outdoors for All initiative, a statewide movement aimed at expanding equitable access to parks,” said Kaytlen Jackson, spokesperson for California Parks Sierra District. “As part of that effort, Sierra District identified the house museum tours program as an opportunity to improve accessibility (with) free tours, while also strengthening the protection and stewardship of these important cultural resources.” Jackson’s reference to the Sierra District is the state, not the nonprofit. The state divides the 280 state parks into 22 districts, with California’s Tahoe state parks
Photo Kathryn Reed
Recreation Area. About 1.5 million people visit these eight parks every year. Half a million goes directly to park projects, while the other $500,000 is allocated for overhead, operation of visitor centers and tours. In 2012, the foundation also took over visitors center operations at Emerald Bay, D.L. Bliss and Sugar Pine Point state parks. It operates the center at Donner State Park with the state. Some have said the switch to free tours is a short-term positive gain for the public that will have long-term negative consequences because there won’t be as much money available for upkeep at the various sites. Myers would not speak to that assumption. Jackson said expansion of the visitors centers gift shops and other funding sources like legislative allocations, grants, propositions and bonds, and other partner organizations should make the foundation whole. The state notified the foundation about the change in April 2025, so it will have had two years’ notice before the change is implemented. The handful of part-time tour guides will be out of work, though they could apply for their old jobs through the state. Tours are expected to run Memorial Day through September, as they have been, but the state doesn’t know times or if more or fewer time slots will be offered.
before SSPF began operating the tours for a higher fee in 2012,” Jackson said. The foundation charged $18 at Vikingsholm and $15 at Hellman-Ehrman. “It will have a negative financial impact on our unrestricted funds because tour operations comprise about 25 percent of our revenue,” Michael Myers, Sierra State Parks Foundation executive director, said of no longer running the tours. He and his board are working on how to shore up what is expected to be a $90,000 annual deficit. Sierra State Parks Foundation raises and spends about $1 million every year to help with programs, upkeep and more at Washoe Meadows State Park, Emerald Bay State The Vikingsholm mansion is owned by the state of California.
Photo Kathryn Reed
Mountain News 13
M OUNTAIN N EWS B USINESS
Survey says . . .
Local students learn about tree milling at LTCC.
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency is seeking to strengthen its transportation and communication systems during hazardous events such as wildfires, landslides and storms. Help build this program by taking a survey at trpa.gov/resilienttransportation through October 21 with the chance to win a $100 Safeway gift card. Starting Oct. 21, a temporary detour of the Lam Watah Trail in Rabe Meadow is scheduled as the US Forest Service works to restore the sensitive meadow ecosystem. The Lake Tahoe Unified School District is accepting nominations for its Hall of Distinction. Categories include former student, former employee/retiree and distinguished service. Visit https://docs. google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMTcsgOpmqIEiV7jJnjqDdTQBuqyWJPuAY6klOIMGaOSGIKg/viewform?pli=1 Tahoe Valley Elementary School is seeking 25 Reading Pals to pair with students in weekly sessions designed to build confidence and love of reading. Visit https:// www.marcellafoundation.org/readingpals to sign up. Background check required. The city of South Lake Tahoe is offering $200 recreation scholarships for eligible individuals to be able to participate in city recreation programs, classes and events. Visit cityofslt.gov/scholarships. The Tahoe Prosperity Center will be conducting its bi-annual business walks October 19 to October 23 when they visit businesses around the basin to get on-theground information about the business landscape. The information will be used to develop programs and initiatives to support local business. Registration for Kahle Community Center’s youth basketball program has opened. Teams for boys and girls grades
14 Mountain News
3-8 are being offered. Volunteer coaches are also being sought, no experience required. Call 775/586-7271 x 5572. The Boys & Girls Club is hosting a comedy night and dinner on October 17 at the Barrel Room featuring Joe Praino, Pete Cestaro and Howie Nave. Craft beers, specialty cocktails and local wines will be on offer. Cost, $75. Tickets available through Eventbrite.com. The South Shore Chili Cook Off is Oct. 17 at the Golden Nugget and will feature paired teams of local restaurants and local first responders battling for bragging rights. The 47th annual Freakers Ball is Oct. 31 at Bally’s. The Shops at Heavenly Village will host the annual Safe Trick-or-Treat Halloween celebration on Oct. 31 from 3-6 p.m. The third annual Meyers Mountain Fall Festival is Oct. 10-11, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Tahoe Paradise Park. Tickets are available online: https://shorturl.at/ kXXZ9. Hooray for Hollywood is the theme of this year’s Soroptimist International of South Lake Tahoe fundraiser. The shindig is Nov. 6, 5:30-9:30 p.m. at Golden Nugget. Tickets are available online: http://www. sislt.org. Lifelong environmentalist, 24-year member of the California Legislature and former TRPA Governing Board member (2009-12) Byron Sher died Sept. 12. He was 98. James “Gypsy” Haake, who was the longtime “mistress of ceremonies” for the long-running Carnival Cabaret show at what was Horizon hotel-casino, died Sept. 13. He was 94. While services are this month in Texas
After spending $26,850 on a communitywide survey, only one council member had something to say about it. The matter showed up on an August consent agenda. This is where things get approved in one fell swoop unless someone pulls an item for discussion. Two community members spoke about the survey, mostly expressing disappointment in the number of people who responded—10 percent—saying that might be the real news. Councilmember Heather Horgan echoed those concerns, saying if a future survey were conducted, perhaps a different contract or process would be warranted. Horgan’s comment was enough for City Manager Hilary Roverud to tell the Mountain News after the meeting that staff will be evaluating the effectiveness of the
Photo Thea Schwartz
for longtime South Lake Tahoe businessman Al Moss, a memorial is planned for this area next year. Moss, who owned the Chevron at Ski Run Boulevard, died in August at age 80. At the Business Council of Douglas County’s 34th annual Critical Issues Conference Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe was honored in the innovation or expansion category for its recent renovations. South Lake Tahoe City Council members may make more money starting Jan. 23. The electeds are expected to vote for the raise Nov. 3 at the second reading of the proposal to up the wages from $1,394.49 to $1,687.33 per month. The last increase was in January 2025. A $1.34 billion budget for El Dorado County was approved Sept. 29 by supervisors; two days before it became effective. The county reports $221.3 million in discretionary spending, with no reduction in services or programs. Oakland artist David Burke’s show “What’s Left Behind” is on display at the Lake Tahoe Community College Haldan Art Gallery. Barton Health is hosting a community health fair at Bijou Elementary School on October 22 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. which will include flu vaccines, blood pressure checks, health insurance assistance and a free dinner by Tacos por Favor. Services offered in Spanish and English. The Tahoe Fund has launched a $5 million fundraising campaign to prevent catastrophic wildfire in the Tahoe basin through a variety of initiatives. The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation have kicked things off with a $750,000 donation. To contribute, visit https://www.tahoefund. org/projects/active-projects/smartest-for-
est-fund/ Interested in joining with others in the neighborhood to work on wildfire prevention and mitigation? Visit https://www. tahoelivingwithfire.com/get-involved/ fire-adapted-communities/ to connect. The ninth annual Tahoe Brewfest held in August raised over $110,000 for the Boys & Girls Club. Sierra-at-Tahoe is celebrating its 80th anniversary this season with a new logo, a gallery of historic photos in the Aspen Lodge, merch, a new mobile app and the upcoming release of a short film. To encourage carpooling this year, parking will be free for cars that arrive with four or more occupants. The Tahoe Emergency Response Team will be holding disaster response training October 20, 22 and 24. Learn how to help family, neighbors and friends in the event of an emergency. To apply or for more info, email tahoecertinfo@gmail.com. Tahoe’s iconic specialty culinary store, The Cork & More, is celebrating 50 years in business in November. Cody’s Tree Service, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, South Tahoe High’s Career and Technical Education program, the Tahoe Transportation District and other partners are joining forces to take trees harvested in the Tahoe basin, turn them into lumber, and build bus shelters. The effort kicked off with a tree milling demonstration at Lake Tahoe Community College in early October. Got a community item for Heard? Email mountainnews2@gmail.com, subject line “Heard.”
community survey and “options for greater community participation” as well as if this survey should be conducted again. National Community Survey conducted by Polco was open from March 4 to June 14. It was sent to 3,000 random people, with 307 responding. “This information is being presented to provide the City Council (with) community feedback to consider when making decisions and setting priorities. The data will also be used to track progress in improving community conditions and sentiment toward public services through implementa-
tion of the Strategic Plan,” the staff report said. “Best practice is to conduct the NCS every two years to track trends across the quality-of-life categories.” Overall confidence in South Lake Tahoe government declined from 30 percent in 2024 to 21 percent in 2026. Opinions about the quality of city services declined from 51 to 41 percent. Sixty-seven percent believe the city is not headed in the correct direction, an improvement of nine percentage points. Sixty-eight percent of survey takers believe the economy is unhealthy, while two years ago the percentage was 77. The economy is still important with 86 percent saying so this year and 90 percent in 2024. Recreation is where the city performed the best: • While the importance ratings for parks and recreation slightly decreased from 82 to 75 percent, the quality rating remains at 80-plus percent. • Positive ratings for recreation programs or classes increased from 62 to 71 percent. • Positive ratings for recreation centers or facilities increased from 55 to 75 percent. Other survey results comparing 2024 to 2026: • Eighty-two percent believe housing options are lacking, compared to 89 percent two years ago. • Ninety percent believe affordable quality housing isn’t a thing here, an improvement of seven percentage points. • Overall feeling of safety in the city remains in the high 70s. • Fifty-seven percent are not happy with the overall quality of the transportation system, an increase of six percentage points. • Fifty-nine percent believe it’s not easy to travel by public transportation, an improvement from 70 percent.
The South Lake Tahoe Democratic Club supports the following Candidates: GOVERNOR
US CONGRESS CD3
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 4
SECRETARY OF STATE
STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 1
ATTORNEY GENERAL
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE CIT Y COUNCIL
Xavier Becerra Fiona Ma
Shirley Weber Rob Bonta TREASURER
Eleni Kounalakis CONTROLLER
Dr. Ami Bera
Jaron Brandon Dianna James
John Friedrich Erika Gonzalez Gantt Miller STPUD BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Malia Cohen SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC EDUCATION
Richard Barrera
Nick Exline Nick Haven Shane Romsos SLT CIT Y CLERK
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER
Michelle Davis
Ben Allen
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION
Nelson Esparza
LTUSD DISTRICT 5 DIRECTOR
Lauri Kemper
CADEM encourages you to support ballot propositions: 1 2 3 4 5 37 38 40 and to oppose: 39 41 42 43 44 45
Election Information • Check your voter status • Register to vote
Ways to vote
FO R N OV. 3 R D
Vote Centers
Lake Tahoe Community College opens October 24 California Conservation Corps opens October 31
EDCDems.org
Drop Boxes open October 6
Library, Grocery Outlet, Holiday Market All Vote Centers and drop boxes will close at 8pm on Election Day
SLTDems.org
Mountain News 15
Salaries around town I am a bad person who deserves no friends Waste bins – friend or foe? I have a friend who recently got injured stepping on the lid of her yard waste bin while rolling it forward, which launched her into the bin. I, of course, laughed at her retelling because I’m a bad person who probably deserves no friends. But I had to look into this because she said the ER staff told her it is quite common and I felt I was missing a whole world of misadventure — or at least more at which to laugh . . . because, again, see above. And sure enough, our AI overlords tell me that stepping on the lid of a rolling yard waste or recycling bin is surprisingly common. I, too, have pushed a bin with the lid hanging open and noticed that it’s not a
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great idea. They break it down into two separate accident potentials — the “lever-and-flip effect” and the “flying trip.” In the first scenario, the dangling lid catches the ground and the person steps onto the dragging lid, making their body weight a pivot point. The 96-gallon container then flips upward and back onto the person. In the second scenario, the person steps on the open lid, shifting the can so the person loses footing and falls into or over the bin. I think my friend did some kind of combo of the two, but I’m not sure. And I finally understood that she didn’t find it as humorous as I. Besides, you may recall that I had my own misadventure with a yard bin some months ago — a small fire caused by stain
rags that melted a nearby bin. So I don’t have much room to tease bin divers. Some thoughts on the state of education . . . California seems bent on holding fast to the ideal that all kids should meet the criteria to attend a four-year college. They also decided that all English learners — regardless their level of readiness — should take these “college prep” classes, which sets many of them up for inevitable failure. While I am certainly an advocate for the college track, the reality is that in many communities, such as our own, there are many young people for whom this path makes little sense. And by extension, a high school program attempting to prepare them for that path makes even less sense. A little history: there was a time — a little more than a decade ago – that the local student population was more university-bound, but it was also a more affordable option then. I’m not saying it was cheap because it certainly wasn’t — just more attainable for more families in SLT than it seems to be now. We also had a thriving AVID program, both at STMS and STHS, which gave many students a real pathway to universities. But that went away. Now we have “dual enrollment,” which is arguably education’s answer to snake oil — those promoting it mostly snakes. We are simply not a university-going population — at least not in the numbers that justify basing an entire academic program on it. And yes, I know we have students who go to LTCC, thrive there and sometimes matriculate to four-year schools. I don’t ever want to see the preparation for that go away. I do, however, believe that we need to offer educational tracks or paths in which students are not required to complete all the college-required math, English and the like. It would be more trade-heavy — and sure, with some career-oriented writing, accounting and other financial skills built in. And you may be wondering, don’t we already have those CTE (Career Tech Ed) pathways now — like sports medicine, dental, tourism, auto, wood, culinary? Yes, we do, and they’re great, but those students still have to pass all the college-prep requirements as well — even if they have zero intention of doing the college thing. Unfortunately, this isn’t a local school district decision, but a state mandate made
by folks who are out of touch with today’s job market and students’ ambitions. I don’t know how this situation changes going forward. School does work well for many kids, but it works very not well for perhaps just as many. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this issue, so as always, email below. Fun facts
This month we take a look at what people at three different local agencies are paid for their work. Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Only one Tahoe Regional Planning agency employee has a base salary of more than $200,000 — the executive director, with three others total compensation packages topping that figure in 2025. According to data on Transparent California, the executive director in 2025 had a base pay of $205,729, while in 2024 it was $195,123.88. Her total pack-
September 25 was National Daughters Day, so I hope you all celebrated your “dots” out there being badasses. Sons, however, get two days — March 4 and September 28. Sorry daughters — don’t shoot the messenger.
Game time . . . For last month’s trail picture, Mark Hoefer correctly identified the intersection of the TRT and Van Sickle trails above Kingsbury Grade. Mark added some interesting information I didn’t know — that the sign says the elevation is 7,777 but it’s actually around 7,721 feet. Mark noted that “It does, however, make for a nice elevation in a State that lives off the ‘Lucky Sevens.’” Fair enough. I’ve got an easy local spot for you to identify this time. Email your guess for the trail featured in the picture above to mikesmutterings@gmail.com
age last year amounted to $260,581.13, while 2024’s total was $250,320.32. Transparent California is a public records platform that publishes government salary and pension data provided by those entities. The nonprofit lists 97 employees on TRPA’s payroll in 2025. Rounding out the top five salaries last year were the chief operating officer ($185,393.52), general counsel ($180,276.83), chief partnerships officer/deputy director ($169,428.80) and chief financial and administrative officer ($149,699.76). All five had “other pay” amounting to four digits, while benefits ranged from $37,411.36 to $50,653.53. Twenty-six employees made more than $100k last year in wages, while another 22 had wage-benefit totals of more than $100,000. Total base payroll for 2025 was $7,332,908.52. Benefits, which include health and retirement contributions, totaled $2,005,225.52. The 2024 totals were $6,995,263.29 for base pay and $2,029,758.05 in benefits. For 2024, Transparent California shows 90 employees on TRPA’s payroll, with 23 making at least $100,000. The top five salaries were the executive director, associate attorney, chief operating officer, chief partnerships officer/deputy director and metropolitan planning organization director. The first three had total packages valued at more than $200,000. This reporter has worked as a freelance writer for TRPA’s Tahoe In Depth publication and is not an employee, but
instead a contract worker. City of South Lake Tahoe Payroll data for 2025 released by the state of California shows the city of South Lake Tahoe paid $28,688,726 in wages for its 355 employees. Of that, $2,555,297 was overtime, $956,093 for lump sums and $2,129,332 in other pay. Other pay could include car allowances, meeting stipends, incentive or bonus pay. Retirement and health benefits came in at $8,271,753. Total wages increased by about $2 million from 2024, with overtime dropping by about $50,000. There were also 20 more people on the payroll in 2025. In 2025, the police chief came in as the highest paid employee, which is a bit deceptive because there was a changing of the guard mid-year. This is likely why there was a lump sum payout of $225,317. The police chief’s total wages were $333,810 — the only position in the city that hit the $300k mark.
ton and San Francisco. El Dorado County Superior Court El Dorado County Superior Court’s 91 employees cost taxpayers more than $9 million in 2025. Collectively, they made $7,046,716 in wages and were given $2,178,328 worth of health benefits. State Controller Malia M. Cohen
recently released the payroll date for 47 court systems. That leaves 11 counties that didn’t turn in info. Superior courts reported nearly $1.8
billion in total wages, $586 million in retirement and health contributions for $2.4 billion in total compensation. The eight EDC judges’ salaries ranged from $228,087 to $246,407. Their health benefits paid by the county taxpayers were between $1,184 and $27,186. The court executive officer’s income of $234,177 was higher than two of the judges’. She also collected $4,471 in a lump sum payment, $23,212 in defined benefit plan contributions and $26,741 in health benefits. Alpine County along with Santa Clara and San Francisco superior courts reported the highest average employee wages. Alpine is skewed because it only has eight employees. Total wages came to $880,507. One judge made $246,407 last year, while the other earned $243,661. The county’s contribution to retirement/ health benefits for those two was $1,814 and $10,916, respectively.
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Two fire battalion chiefs took the second ($276,652) and third ($266,731) spots for salaries. Both positions had more than $90,000 in overtime and retirement-health benefits costing taxpayers more than $70,000 each. The city manager was No. 4 in salary at $261,657. The assistant city manager was No. 5 at $257,820 in salary. Both had lump sum payments of more than $20,000, with retirement-health benefits in the $70,000 range. The newly appointed city manager’s salary and compensation package includes $289,221 in salary and $72,197 in benefits made up of health insurance, retirement and a car allowance. Of the 467 reporting California cities, South Lake Tahoe came in No. 156 for total wages. Truckee with its 215 workers was No. 206 with $18,404,157 in wages. Health and retirement totaled $5,639,171. Placerville was No. 308. It had 199 employees who made $8,364,755 and accumulated $2,740,130 in health and retirement compensation. Hayward reported the highest average employee wage, followed by Ather-
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ERIKA GONZALEZ SOUTH LAKE TAHOE CITY COUNCIL 2026
Third-generation South Lake Tahoe, born and raised. Running for a city council built on integrity and accountability.
OUR TAHOE, OUR VOICE. erikafromsouthlake.com Paid for by Erika Gonzalez for South Lake Tahoe City Council 2026 · FPPC ID# 1493690
Mountain News 17
M OUNTAIN N EWS C OVER S TORY
M OUNTAIN N EWS C OVER S TORY
Financial fiasco at Fallen Leaf Lake Chaotic is the best word to describe the current state of affairs at the Fallen Leaf Lake Community Services District. Finances are so out of hand that insolvency is a possibility because of the $1 million gap between revenues and expenses. The general manager is leaving after just more than a year. The concessionaire ended his contract a year early and vacated the premises in September before all boats were out of the water. The fire department is talking to Lake Valley Fire about being absorbed into its operations. A special board meeting on Sept. 24 was called to discuss the audit that came out earlier that month and other pertinent issues. The draft audit from Fechter & Company for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, said, “Recurring deficit budgeting is indicative of a structural imbalance between the district's ongoing revenue sources and its cost of providing fire protection and related services to the community.” Scott German, an accountant with the firm, spoke at the meeting.
Don Ashton
Photo Proided
documents even if the district offices are closed.” He noted $374,000 in expenses without receipts. No one is saying the money was used in an illegal manner. All charges are attributed to Gary Gerren, who
Karen Sipprell
Photo Provided
agreement as of Sept. 29, 2025. However, he was paid through the contract date, plus $14,000 in early move-out expenses from his Fallen Leaf Lake rental, as well as a lump sum of $10,000, $8,000 into his IRA and $40,000 in deferred bonuses.
Photo Kathryn Reed
Without fire hydrants, the two Fallen Leaf Lake fire boats are critical to fire suppression. The department responded to 65 calls last summer; most were medical in nature.
“We didn't have a lot of receipts available, especially when it came to credit cards. You need to correct this,” German said. “You need to be able to access
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at the time had the dual roles of general manager and fire chief. Gerren’s contract was to end in April 2026, but the board terminated the
The agreement says neither party may disparage the other. Don Ashton, who has been general manager since September 2025 and
FALLEN LEAF
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Chris Sauer
Photo Provided
is leaving at the end of December for personal reasons, said policies are in place today to track credit card spending so this issue should not reoccur. Ashton was El Dorado County’s chief administrative officer from 2016-23. While the board expressed that they’d like Ashton to return someday, he doesn’t see how it would be financially feasible. “They don't have enough cash flow, the budget is not balanced and there are no reserves,” he told the Mountain News. He said the biggest financial shocker to him when he took over was the IRS lien of $230,000 due to failure to pay payroll taxes. “No one was aware of it until we got the letter in February or March this year that it had not been paid,” Ashton said. The audit noted, “Management has filed an appeal with the IRS contesting a portion of the $229,004.93 payroll tax liability, including applicable penalties and interest.” Ashton said, “It’s the worst audit I’ve ever seen,” not in terms of the job the CPA did, but in regard to the findings. While the district had a bookkeeper, the oversight would have fallen to Gerren to ensure taxes were paid. The audit mentions the fire department’s reliance on reimbursements from the state when strike teams are sent to out of area fires. While this has been a source of income, it is not a guarantee. In July 2019, the state auditor filed a scathing report against Fallen Leaf Lake
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CSD, in particular the fire department. That report says, “… when filing its salary forms for 2016 through 2018 with Cal OES, the district’s fire chief reported higher salary rates than the district actually paid its firefighters, which resulted in the district claiming over $700,000 more than it should have. As a result of these improper reimbursements, the district’s audited financial statements for fiscal years 2015-16 through 2017-18 show that its revenue exceeded its expenditures.” Ashton said the statute of limitations has passed so the district will not be paying the state back the ill-gotten gains. Board President Karen Sipprell opened the Sept. 5 meeting with a lengthy statement about the district’s financial situation, which prepped the community for the audit that would be released in a matter of days. “It appears obvious the previous management was not honest with us when we made inquiries about audits and claims,” she read from a prepared statement. “We are likely to uncover more challenges as we work through the subsequent audits for 24-25 and 25-26.” She also pointed out the current fire chief and general manager are making less than what Gerren did when he had both jobs. Uncertain times At the Sept. 24 meeting, Sipprell told those in attendance that she and Ashton met with the county auditor, chief administrative officer and head of LAFCo the previous day. This was at the behest of Shiva Franzen who is the executive officer for the Local Area Formation Commission. Franzen did not answer an email inquiry. The consensus was the district is in uncharted waters and that if it were deemed insolvent, dissolution would be the next step, something that would likely take years to complete.. While in the past there had been talk of dismantling the CSD and creating a homeowners association, this isn’t easy to do. Legal settlements from nearly 50 years ago play a role in what can take place. Sipprell said county officials were surprised by the amount of philanthropy within the district. After all, one resident provided a $1 million loan last month at four percent interest to temporarily stabilize the fire department budget. “We all acknowledged philanthropy is not a sustainable solution,” Sipprell said. “They advised us to reach out to Lake Valley (Fire Protection District) to begin discussions about how they would feel about consolidation or annexation.” Ashton, while amazed by the philanthropy at Fallen Leaf, also doesn’t believe relying on donations is a good business model. After the meeting, Ashton told the Mountain News, “If Measure S doesn't pass
and if the voters of Fallen Leaf Lake aren’t willing to approve some additional tax or assessment, the district would have to have significant budget reductions to remain solvent—to the point the community would probably not be satisfied with the level of service.” Measure S is the Nov. 3 countywide sales tax ballot measure put forth
“I think it is reasonable to think about a merger with another district or city. We did that successfully with Meeks Bay and North Tahoe Fire,” Laine said. “(Fallen Leaf Lake’s) structural deficit would have to be addressed. We would not want to take on a district where taxpayer monies that support that district are short of what is needed.”
Photo Kathryn Reed
John Rich, who with wife Ruth was the concessionaire at Fallen Leaf Lake for 14 years, works Sept. 30 to remove docks for the season.
by Marshall Hospital in Placerville to pay for earthquake retrofitting at its facilities. After the bond debt and construction bills, any money left over would be divvied up between fire departments in the county. Projections have Fallen Leaf Lake receiving $262,857 a year. However, there is no guarantee any fire department will see a dime. Lake Valley Fire Chief John McNamara said he was aware of the issues at Fallen Leaf Lake but said “no formal discussions or dialogue regarding a possible takeover” have taken place. FLL Fire Chief Chris Sauer, who has been on the job since last December— though he had the position in the 1990s—said this isn’t the first time consolidation talks have taken place. This is true—at one time the city of South Lake Tahoe was also involved in those discussions. With new leadership at the three departments, it’s possible a different outcome could be reached. El Dorado County Supervisor Brooke Laine is keeping a watchful eye on what’s happening.
On July 28, the district received a cash advance of about $150,000 from El Dorado County. It’s eligible to receive an additional $100,000 to address cash flow shortages. The district must pay the county interest on this money. The district sold a fire engine this year for $240,000; they paid more than $400,000 for it in 2023. This was to generate some cash flow. Measure E, a fire-ambulance tax first approved in 2014, was renewed by FLL voters in June.
The district is considering additional tax measure next year.
an
A bit of history Fallen Leaf Lake has operated as a community services district since 1983, with fire protection the primary reason for forming. Parks and recreation—aka the store and marina—came under its umbrella in 1987. It is governed by an elected fivemember board of directors. This isn’t the first time Fallen Leaf Lake CSD has been a hot mess. John and Ruth Rich, who operated the store and marina for 14 years, were forced out in 2010. The community was divided over this move. This was the same year Gerren was hired as chief of the volunteer fire department. Interim general manager was added to his duties when General Manager Tom Barnes was let go. A settlement was later reached in his wrongful termination lawsuit Rich was at the marina Sept. 30 helping to take out the remaining dock structures. He refused to comment on whether he would do more going forward, nor would he answer other questions. After the Riches were kicked out, Rob and Sandy Wirth had the concession the next year. California Land Management took over for a few years before Big Blue Hospitality was handed the responsibility. In 2011, registered voters in the district were sent a letter by District Attorney Vern Pierson about people who were voting at Fallen Leaf Lake even though that was not their primary residence. The letter stated, “This investigation revealed that improprieties had in fact occurred and were criminally subject to prosecution as felony-grade offenses. Largely because the acts appear to have been precipitated by poor judgment, some misinformation which was circulating in the community, and a failure by
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M OUNTAIN N EWS C OVER S TORY FALLEN LEAF
Continued from page 19 some to accurately and fully appreciate the requirements of the pertinent law, this office has determined to decline prosecution at this time.” Concessionaire troubles One board member called the relationship with the concessionaire “a four-year unhappy marriage.” Luke Johnston, who runs Big Blue
The result was a profitable season, though exact figures were not disclosed. The board had initiated a termination agreement earlier this year that Johnston didn't sign. However, on Sept. 15 BBH notified the district it was terminating the contract effective Dec. 31. At the Sept. 24 meeting Johnston said he was wrapping up operations that next weekend, that he no longer felt comfortable on the property and he did not trust the district.
Photo Kathryn Reed
Workers pack up merchandise at Fallen Leaf Lake Store on Sept. 30.
Hospitality, told the board, “The district has been in breach of their contract with BBH since Day 1, and continues to be in many instances.” At the Sept. 5 meeting, which lasted about five hours, Johnston said, “We’ve never had an operating profit. We’ve always operated at a loss. So this year we made some pretty big operational changes. We let go of our management staff from the previous season, so we did not have a marina manager, we did not have a store manager and we did not have a café manager.” Those responsibilities fell to BBH staff.
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“Given the ongoing disputes and the public comments and actions concerning me and Big Blue Hospitality made by members of the CSD board of directors and staff, I don’t feel comfortable doing a media interview at this time,” Johnston told the Mountain News. The board is working with Municipal Resources Group to possibly assist the district in developing a business plan and interim solution for the 2027 season and beyond. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Nov. 14, though a special meeting could be called before then.
Mountain News 21
Questions continue to surround Tahoe Paradise Park operations More questions are surfacing regarding the Tahoe Paradise Recreation and Park District. A former board member contacted El Dorado County this month about questionable practices involving the district’s credit card and PayPal accounts after being unable to get information from park staff. The only employees of the district are business manager Chelsy Munson and operations manager Scott Nicholas. Neither are talking to the Mountain News. Normally they would be accountable to the board, but without a functioning board they are left to run the place with little or no oversight. Board member Judy Brozo-Clot, who was the first to raise the alarm about possible financial wrong-doing at the park, remains out on medical leave. Board member Zane Graham deferred to colleague John Dayberry. The board is down two members, so
with one out on leave that doesn’t leave a quorum to have a meeting. Two new members will come on board after the November election as they ran unopposed. Olivia Clark, an attorney with Best Best & Krieger law firm in Sacramento, would not talk to the Mountain News. The firm was hired by the district to handle issues with the county when the auditor stopped paying bills he deemed questionable earlier this year. Since then, the District Attorney’s Office has opened a case and the county’s lawyer is being kept abreast of matters. Clark, in a Sept. 16 letter to county Auditor Joe Harn, contends the district has not violated Government Code Section 1090, alleging Munson did not participate in the contract negotiations with her husband’s business, Scar Inc. The Government Code prohibits an officer, employee, or agency from participating in making government contracts in which the official or employee
Versatile salad for any crowd
Photo Kathryn Reed
Jim Schmit, who was an integral part of the development of the Tahoe Paradise community, raises money for the park through his eclectic museum on the property.
within the agency has a financial interest. If someone were found guilty of violating this regulation, it’s a felony. El Dorado County is essentially the district’s bank; writing checks based on submitted invoices. On Sept. 25, checks were written to Munson; Jason Munson, Chelsy’s husband and their teenage son and adopted teenage nephew. Munson did not respond to an inquiry about why the boys were receiving money from the park. The county did not disclose the dollar amount on those checks. Dayberry said the boys were hired to collect parking fees on busy days. It’s not known how much in parking fees was collected compared to what it cost to pay the youngsters to collect the money. The $5 entrance fee is usually a self-pay system, but not everyone abides by the rules. Dayberry acknowledged a more than $40,000 donation from Jim Schmit,
saying this was to build a parking fee collection station at the entrance, which has not been realized. Schmit established a museum in part of the main building, with donations and sales of his biography going to the district. The 85-year-old Schmit, who lives onsite, will keep the eclectic, sports memorabilia dominated museum open until Nov. 1. He plans to reopen it next summer. Schmit donated all of the items to the park, which could one day sell everything and use the proceeds for park improvements/ operations. Sitting outside the museum entrance Schmit shares stories about his involvement with the development of Tahoe Paradise as a neighborhood and says he is the one who got the park off the ground.
Those who know a thing or two about nutrition often say the more colorful your plate, the healthier your meal. (A handful of M&Ms or Skittles does not count!) This recipe has so many options— in other words, use it as a guide and not a mandate. Choose other vegetables. Like a different bean? Use those. Don’t want to grill corn? Open a can. I’ve even used corn right off the cob without cooking it. Consider salsa instead of the canned chipotle. This salad has so many things to love. Not only is it healthy because of all that color, but quinoa is a complete protein. Because of this I usually serve
Ingredients 3 C veggie broth or water 2 C quinoa 2 ears of grilled corn 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded and diced 1 C cherry tomatoes, halved 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained ½ C red onion, chopped ½ C cilantro, chopped 4 avocados, chopped into 1-inch
Preparation
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22 Mountain News
Cook quinoa in broth or water. When done, cool in open bowl in fridge. While quinoa chills, grill the corn. Then cut the kernels off the cob, placing in large bowl. Add cherry tomatoes, drained black beans, onion and avocado to corn. Add cilantro. In separate bowl add oil, lime juice, chipotle peppers and sauce, vinegar, honey, cumin and 1 tsp
it as a main course for dinner. It's perfect as a side as well. I’m always surprised how filling it is—but then again I’m not going to admit to my serving size. I love this salad. The next day it’s lunch or even breakfast. I’m one who doesn’t always eat a “traditional” breakfast. Leftovers first thing in the morning are fine by me. Depending on how many are in your household, if this is a side or main, or if you are taking this to a potluck, you might consider cutting the recipe in half.
I never have because I never get tired of a bowl of this salad. One thing to be aware of, you need time to cool the quinoa. I’ve forgotten this and have put it in the freezer to
speed up the process. Really not ideal. I recommend making the quinoa, chilling it, then coming back a couple hours later or the next day to finish the assembly.
chunks ½ C vegetable, canola or avocado oil ½ C lime juice, from about 4 limes 2-5 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce minced, plus 1-2 T adobo sauce (to taste) 2 T rice wine vinegar 2 tsp honey 2 tsp cumin 1 tsp salt
of salt. Whisk together. Taste—it should be spicy, as the flavor will be diluted once combined with quinoa. Combine vegetables and quinoa. Toss gently, being careful to not squish the avocado. Pour liquid over quinoaveggie mix. More gentle tossing. Taste. Adjust with salt, adobe sauce and/or oil if desired. The flavors meld overnight—however, this can be eaten as soon as it’s assembled.
Mountain News 23
Liberty seeks new suppliers Liberty Utilities in August released a request for proposal to 350 electricity suppliers in hopes of finding one or more to provide power to its customers, many of whom are on the California side of the Lake Tahoe Basin. When Liberty acquired its approximately 50,000 customers in 2009 from NV Energy, the agreement was Liberty would find another source for its electricity. It has yet to do so. In August, Eric Schwarzrock, president of Liberty Utilities for the Lake Tahoe region, gave a talk hosted by North Tahoe Community Alliance. “It could be a single energy supplier or it could be a selection of a couple different entities. We are prioritizing renewable suppliers first,” Schwarzrock said. “We are attractive because we peak in winter and at night when it’s the coldest; when electric heaters are cranking and resorts are making Graphic Liberty Utilities Liberty's service area stretches along snow.” This is unlike most regions where eastern California. peak demand is in summer at the hottest ers and other appliances. point of the day, often as people return home from work, turning on air conditionLiberty has two solar systems in Ne-
vada that provide about 30 percent of customers’ annual needs. Schwarzrock said Liberty has been looking for a supplier for the other 70 percent since 2019 but “at the time transmission capacity was not available through NV Energy.” Capacity won't be available until the new lines come online in 2027/28. He added, “What we are waiting on is transmission infrastructure. We are in the queue.” With part of NV Energy’s Greenlink project expected to be operational in May 2027, this is likely the transmission solution. Greenlink West will be a 525 kV line from Las Vegas to Yerington. Greenlink North will be a 525 kV line from Ely to Yerington, with service slated to start by December 2028. The north project also includes three 345 kV lines from Yerington to the Reno area. In a statement, Liberty said, “Liberty cannot access the greater energy market without these transmission rights, and we’re excited to receive those rights when NV Energy’s Greenlink West project goes into service.” NV Energy has agreed to continue
providing energy to Liberty until transmission access is in place. Both companies say service will not be interrupted as changes occur. Some people at the talk complained about Liberty’s rates going up 50 percent while personal usage decreased. “Why rates are increasing is it certainly has everything to do with wildfire mitigation. Thirteen percent of Liberty’s average bill is going to wildfire liability insurance,” Schwarzrock said. “The other portion is investments we are making. The good news is it is an investment.” Liberty expects to spend about $40 million this year on wildfire mitigation. Since 2023 the total is $140 million. Ninety-four percent of the territory is in a high fire threat area. Liberty is a subsidiary of Algonquin Power and Utilities Corp. in Canada. Algonquin is listed on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges. Liberty is regulated by the California Public Utility Commission.
EVERY SECOND MATTERS
HEART ATTACK | STROKE | FIRE | SERIOUS ACCIDENT
When you call 9-1-1, help needs to arrive FAST! YES ON S ENSURES LOCAL FIREFIGHTERS AND PARAMEDICS ARE READY PROTECT RAPID 9-1-1 RESPONSE Voting Yes on S supports the firefighters, paramedics, equipment, and emergency-response resources residents depend on when every second matters.
KEEP FIREFIGHTERS & PARAMEDICS READY Voting Yes on S ensures qualified and experienced firefighters and paramedics are ready to respond.
VOTING YES ON S WILL:
Reduce wildfire risk evacuation Strengthen readiness emergency alerts Improve and communications
STRENGTHEN EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS Voting Yes on S supports reliable emergency alerts and communications when residents need information and help quickly. 911
PREPARE FOR WILDFIRE & DISASTER Voting Yes on S strengthens emergency preparedness and response capabilities before the next major wildfire or disaster strikes.
YES on
SAFE, STRONG EL DORADO
LOCAL EMERGENCY EXPERTS KNOW EVERY SECOND COUNTS
S
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24 Mountain News
Mountain News 25
Dina Ramaha-Pino
ELECTION
In your neighborhood
Continued from page 26
Ensuring a free and fair election While Nov. 3 will be the first election Rena Russell will be completely in charge of, she is no stranger to the process. The assistant registrar of voters for El Dorado County will take the top spot on Oct. 31 after having been appointed to the job by the Board of Supervisors on Sept. 22. Current registrar, Linda Webster, is retiring after working for the county in various roles since 1989. Rena, a native of El Dorado County, has been working for the county for 14 years. “Although I took a short hiatus while attending college, I ultimately returned to my hometown, where I married my hus-
another half marathon. “I love getting out and exploring every corner of El Dorado County, whether I’m powering up a local trail, paddleboarding across a mountain lake, or chasing down my next favorite spot,” Russell said. “And with so many great restaurants in the county, let’s just say running has become not just a hobby, but a necessity.” Another passion of hers this time of year is rooting for the Buffalo Bills. The following Q&A between the Mountain News and Russell has been edited for clarity. You have worked for El Dorado County since 2012, what keeps you there?
Graphic El Dorado Couty
band and we raised our two children,” Russell said. “I truly believe there is no better place to raise a family; my kids even attended the same grade school and high school I once did.” One way she burns off energy and reduces stress is by running. She’s training for
26 Mountain News
I’ve been proud to work for El Dorado County since 2012, and what keeps me here is the strong connection I have to this community—it’s my home, it’s where my family lives, and it’s where my friends are. Over the years, I’ve learned that if you’re in a job just for a paycheck, it’s time to find some-
thing new. I can honestly say I’ve found not just a job, but a career where the work is meaningful, the service matters, and the commitment to our community is what drives me every day. I’m grateful that my job allows me to serve the community that has always been my home by helping ensure that the democratic process is carried out in a secure, accurate, and transparent manner that voters can feel confident in. How much does it cost to put on an election like the one on Nov. 3? What do those dollars cover? An estimated cost for a similar election on Nov. 3, 2026, is approximately $600,000. Many variables influence the total cost, and voter turnout is significant to the cost of an election. Because turnout cannot be known in adPhoto Provided vance, its impact on the final cost will only be clear after the elec- Rena Russell will be head of El Dorado County Elections Department for three days before the Nov. 3 election. tion. The cost of an election covers flict-of-interest (Form 700) documents for many essential elements. A portion goes to our workers. We are fortunate local districts, responds to public records in El Dorado County to have dedicated staff, requests and manages any petitions submitvote center teams and extra-help employees ted. who return year after year. Costs also inVoter registration records are updated clude printing ballots and voter information daily, and new facilities for vote centers and pamphlets, as well as postage for mailing ballot drop boxes are acquired when needballots, pamphlets, and outreach materials. ed, including ADA compliance surveys for Additional expenses involve office sup- each site. In addition, we maintain district plies such as ballot paper and printer toner, information—such as adding streets and equipment costs, required publications, and addresses—and work closely with local the transportation of equipment to and from districts to fill board vacancies and support vote center locations. All these components appointment processes. help ensure each election is secure, accessiMany people assume election emble and well-run. ployees only spring into action on election What are you and other Elections day, but the truth is that the work happens Department employees doing when there all year long. I often explain it by comparing an election to planning a massive party. isn’t an election? When there isn’t an active election, our Think of a wedding: it usually takes about Elections Department continues working nine months to organize, with one venue year-round to ensure accuracy, compliance and a few hundred guests. Now compare and readiness. Staff review and update pro- that to what we manage—13 venues (vote cedures based on new legislation, maintain centers), 138,000 invited guests, and absovoting equipment to ensure reliability and lutely no RSVP to tell us how many will security, and prepare for upcoming elec- show up. That usually gives people a sense tions by setting timelines, assigning tasks, of theplanning, coordination and behindtraining vote center workers and organizing logistics. The team also handles candidate ELECTION filings, campaign filings, processes con- Continued on page 27
the-scenes effort that goes into ensuring every election runs smoothly here in El Dorado County. What can be done to get more people to vote here and elsewhere? Increasing voter participation starts with making sure people have the information they need and feel connected to the process. One of the most effective approaches is getting timely, accurate details out about upcoming elections, key deadlines and how to participate. Civic engagement also grows when communities are involved through outreach, education and conversations that highlight the importance of voting.
One of our main concerns for this November’s election is making sure voters clearly understand that nothing has changed in the voting process for El Dorado County. All voters will still receive a vote-bymail ballot delivered to their address, just as they did in the June election. In-person voting options also remain the same. Vote centers will open Oct. 24 and will remain open through Election Day, giving voters multiple days and locations to cast a ballot in person if they prefer. Ensuring the public is aware of these unchanged procedures helps prevent confusion and supports a smooth, successful election. How are elections safe from fraud when voter ID is not required? Elections remain safe and secure even without requiring voter ID because every ballot must include the voter’s signature, provided under penalty of perjury, which serves as a legal attestation of identity. All vote-by-mail ballots undergo a thorough signature-verification process to confirm that the signature on the return envelope matches the voter’s signature on their voter registration record. This verification is performed on every vote-by-mail ballot received, ensuring that only valid signatures are accepted and ballots are processed. If a signature does not match the voter record, a signature-cure notice is sent to the voter with information on how they can cure their signature so their ballot can be counted. What are your thoughts about voting by mail?
Photo TMN file
People have the option to vote by mail or in person.
Social media plays a powerful role as well, helping reach a wider audience, share reminders, spotlight essential election information and engage younger or harderto-reach voters. What concerns do you have about this November’s election?
For South Lake Tahoe City Council
We conduct elections strictly in accordance with state regulations. Our role is to administer elections as the law requires—securely, accurately, and transparently, and not to give opinions on elections or voting methods. Voting by mail is one of the options provided under state law, and we carry it out with the same rigorous standards and safeguards applied to all parts of the election process. Do you believe the SAVE America Act should be passed? Why/why not? Our role is to conduct elections in accordance with state and federal regulations and ensure they are administered securely, accurately and transparently.
“Together we can can build a sustainable future for South Lake Tahoe residents & families”
A social worker committed to protecting SLT residents and families first. Always! A mom prioritizing safe roads, affordable housing & environmental protection. A local business owner focused on a growing local economy without compromising the future of our residents and families. New taxes & fees for tourists, NOT residents. Accountable Leadership Our Community can be Proud of, Feel Safe with, and Depend on.
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Mountain News 27
Still playing along When you’re young, there’s a slew of people compelled to tell you what to do. But you’ll find as you grow older, there’s a slew of people equally compelled to tell you what not to do. People take one look at us — our faded hair, skin-flappy arms and wrinkle-determined faces — and snatch what we’re lifting out of our arthritic fingers. Even normal things we once carried marathon distances — like a libation-stuffed cooler and a 30lb toddler. That would be an Olympian feat now. Remember last week? The couch, refrigerator and piano we wanted someone to move for us to a different and very distant location? And then asked them to move back because it didn’t fit? It never did. We should know that. Because we tried it before. But we’re old, so we’ve forgotten. Yet this is a perk of aging. No matter how feeble it makes me feel, it shows the thoughtfulness of others, along with revealing their fear that aging might be contagious. Which it is, if you stick around long enough. Though it does kind of sneak up on you. You start noticing an onslaught of strange things growing on you. Those youthful freckles you once flaunted suddenly become “suspicious moles.” The
mean-a-pausal hair loss coincides with hair growth in distressing new places. Your internal thermometer begins running the same temperature as your old basin-beater, either over-heated radiator or frozen block. Trying to remember names becomes a game show. You’re hoping for hints, as your former brain plasticity has morphed into Silly Putty. “Oh, you want to know the name of my husband? Of course! His name is…wait a minute…it’s on the tip of my tongue….” So when people tell me what to do now, I get it. I mean, I’m used to dealing with authority. Beach toll gates. Overstaying my welcome in a Stateline grocery store, where I used to purchase groceries without parking security clocking me. Or scabbing a spot in a casino parking lot on the pretense of gambling, when I’m really doing something much more nefarious — catching a tram to go skiing.
Then there’s the unpaid authorities of our lives. They tell us not to do things that are bold and precocious, frowning on the behavior of us over-aged children. Such as grabbing a shovel and climbing a ladder to do snow removal. If you tell my 70-something friend not to do that, she won’t invite you to join her on the roof to share the view and a cup of tea. I do my almighty best to never listen to anyone who spews their soup of insecurity. Even if they can remember the name of their husband. It’s a precious waste of my limited resources and time left on Planet LifeIsOurPlayground. Here’s where I veer off track and steer towards a more positive, though occasionally terrifying direction. And What’s-HisName is eager to come along. Trust me. He’s dragged me through plenty of nonsensical adventures. Most ill-advised, many a thrill ride, but all blazingly memorable, no matter how brittle my bones and gray matter. I have chosen the talismans in my life. Books to bend the Silly Putty of my mind. People who are optimistic, wise and irreverent muses. The doctor who patched up my feet, field-tested my heart and gave me
wings for a half-marathon. A spa manager who told me to ignore the glass ceiling, encouraging me to build facial rooms. “Act like you own the place,” he said. Friends who yank us outside to play. And the husband who is eager to come along, even if I just forgot his name again. Talismans can be as simple as the first map that guided you to Tahoe. Or a bike shop owner pointing you to a new trail. Or a world-class climber who shares his passion. And it becomes a siren call to your withered, yet still functioning, ears. That’s what happens when Alex Honnold speaks of a life built on continuous learning and discovery — not chasing one massive goal and stopping. I’m guessing he wasn’t picturing the AARP crowd when he said it. But I don’t think he’d tell us not to try. So that’s the plan this winter. Heading out to a far-flung Nevada town. A place where the desert mirrors a philosophy of change and embracing the physical and mental freedom of exploration. A new playground. Hopefully some new playmates too. And I’m taking ol’ What’s-His-Name with me.
1990 Audrain Way
1431 Black Bart Avenue
Classic 3 bedroom, 2 bath cabin west of Echo Summit. Along a year-round stream. Easy access to Sierra-at-Tahoe, skiing, snowboarding and hiking. One-car garage.
Well-maintained 3 bedroom, 1 bath home on large lot. Two-car garage, newer roof, vinyl windows, flooring; updated kitchen. Close to river access and bike trails.
$499,000
$559,000
Call Brandie 775.901.2751
$560,000
$1,189,000
Call Brandie 775.901.2751
807 Emerald Bay Road $1,099,000
Ann Truscott CA 02136075 NV S.0194874
CA 00964008
CA 02377629
CA 02162964 NV S.0198544
CA 01958463
CA 01225636 NV S.0053818
Call Brandie 775.901.2751
Montgomery Estates 3 bedroom, 3 bath home. Open-beam vaulted ceilings, knotty pine walls, three spacious decks. Attached 2-car garage. Close to skiing and hiking.
$875,000
$619,000 Call Joel 530.545.8827
Brandie Griffith Connie Lopez Diego Uribe Ortiz Hailey Fuller Jarred Uppendahl Jim Mathews CA 01961472 NV BS.0145628
$1,225,000
2427 Cold Creek Trail
Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in desirable Gardner Mountain. Spacious lot with large backyard. Newer carpet and new heating system.
Call Jarred 530.307.2950
Call Jarred 530.307.2950
Three bedroom, 2 bath home. Backs to Conservancy land. Mt. Tallac views. Fresh interior paint, new carpet, fully fenced. Perfect primary home or vacation rental.
Call Mike 530.544.5395
1875 10th Street
Currently rented commercial property in Tahoe Valley Area Plan. with appoximately 4,500 total sq. ft. on 20,909 sq. ft. parcel. Ample parking.
$885,000
1116 Lindberg Avenue
1641 Sherman Way Architecturally significant 3 bedroom, 3 bath mountain retreat on 1/4 acre. Panoramic lake views. Near Heavenly’s Gunbarrel Chair. Newer roof, undated boiler.
$1, 950,000
Charming triplex: 3-bedroom, 2-bath front cabin and two 1-bedroom, 1-bath rear cabins. Great income potential: near shopping, trails, meadows and the Lake.
Call Ann 530.307.8300
2400 Lupine Trail Call Brandie 775.901.2751
Call Hailey 314.348.4023
802 Tallac Avenue
Exceptional 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Tahoe Keys home. Full of natural light. Close to skiing, golf, hiking and biking. Perfect primary home or retreat. All Keys amenities.
Thoughtfully upgraded spacious 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Montgomery Estates home. Minutes from Heavenly and shopping; offered fully furnished.
$930,000
28 Mountain News
$695,000
Call Mike 530.544.5395
719 Whitney Way
803 Modesto Avenue
Three bedroom, 2 bath Al Tahoe home. Close to shopping, restaurants and recreation. Fully fenced back yard. Waiting for your personal touches.
2567 Bertha Avenue Updated 4 bedroom, 2 bath home. Close to restaurants, Heavenly and the lake. Great room with gas fireplace. Fully fenced backyard and storage shed.
Joel Dameral CA 01851946 NV BS.0145648
Michael Phillips CA 01369810 NV B.0145615
Mika Dailey
CA 02246759 NV S.0205555
Call Brandie 775.901.2751
Molly Jordan CA 02142804 NV S.0195715
Trish Hall
CA 00995140 NVBS.0025568
Mountain News 29
Independent Leadership. Accountable Government. Focused on what matters to Douglas County. Independent Oversight A 36-year Douglas County resident who listens, asks tough questions, and puts residents first.
Photo Gary Bell
Rocks will do that.
Striking out on the trail “J.R.A.,” we call it, just riding along, when it hits you like an explosion out of nowhere. It hits every joint in your body; you feel it in your teeth, your eyeballs and your sunglasses nearly get ripped off your face! The ride was going so perfectly up to this point. Super fun section of downhill, nobody else around and the views as you
30 Mountain News
come around that corner are sick! Oh yeah, the views — exactly what made this shocking moment happen. That explosion came straight through the bike and into your body when the bike hit something, hard — I mean something really hard — the type of thing the tire and suspension would have dealt with no problem as they do, all day long. This was a different impact, metal to granite. You have just experienced the dreaded “pedal strike.” There is no escaping it, we all go through some amount of pedal strike as we learn to ride mountain bikes. New riders are the most susceptible to this situation, and here is why. As we pedal, the bottom of the stroke is very low, sometimes inches off the ground, and we all know not to pedal while cornering or you will pedal strike. But if you are powering along and that piece of granite is sticking up just enough . . . bam! The way I see it, there are a few levels of pedal strike. The first is rather mild. You see the rock, stump or small child in the trail; you know it is coming and it’s possible to prepare a bit to lessen the blow. This level comes as not much more than a good knock. Your forward motion and
body are barely affected, yeah, big deal. The next level is . . . uhh . . . a bit more ouch. This is the pedal strike you don’t see coming. The pedal or even the end of the crank arm hits hard. This one you feel, probably leaving a little metal on the granite and knocking you around a bit; you may even mutter some bad words on this one, but you keep going. Another level up is that one I described at the beginning. This one hurts and may do some damage to your bike. I recently experienced this one when I missed my exit move from a steep rock drop. My foot and pedal hit a boulder so hard the impact actually broke a four-inch flake off the rock. I suspect it may have already been cracked but that piece coming off probably saved my pedal and maybe some body parts. The worst level of pedal strike comes as a complete surprise and hits so hard it stops your bike and throws you over the bars. Hopefully the landing isn’t too hard. Beginners, yes, they have it the hardest because it takes hundreds of hours and many miles to intuitively know exactly where your pedals are — how wide, how low — without thinking about it while concentrating on the trail ahead. If you don’t know where your pedals are within a half inch without looking at them,
they will get battered. And so will the trail as you can see happening sometimes. There is a local trail that has seen an increase in new riders recently because of new access options, along with lots of new marks on rocks from riders who don’t know where their pedals are. So what is the antidote? The back-pedal. If you see that pedal strike coming, give a quick quarter to half stroke backwards, then get back on the power. The movement is quick, sometimes barely noticeable, especially if done right. This simple movement changes the timing. Yes, this is another skillset that will take time and miles to figure out, but it is part of learning to ride mountain trails. It will also go a long way in keeping your bike in better condition because all those impacts really add up. The pedals get hammered, the traction pins can get knocked out or flattened and the pedal bearings get beat up too. And the expensive part of getting beat up is the end of the crank arm. If you happen to have carbon cranks, this is especially painful. They even make little rubber end caps to prevent damaging the carbon ‘cause that’s expensive stuff. Alright, go practice, and no more abusing those poor rocks out there! Let’s play
Financial Experience Four decades in banking and executive leadership, with hands-on experience managing budgets, making difficult financial decisions, and being accountable for results.
Responsible Growth Growth should keep pace with infrastructure, water, roads, public safety, and the character that makes Douglas County special.
Your Voice. Our Community. For Douglas County Commissioner • District 4
dianeimbach.com
Paid for and approved by Diane Imbach. 684 Riven Rock Rd. | P.O. Box 1836, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448 | 775 525 0077
Mountain News 31
Photo hBO
Allison Janney must plan her husband's funeral in Miss You, Love You.
Smaller films have a big impact Fall is the time that the movie industry tends to move from the big tentpole blockbusters of summer to smaller films with more focus on acting and story. One film that has all its focus on acting and story is a touching drama that recently came out on HBO called Miss You, Love You. Allison Janney plays Diane, a widow whose husband recently died from Parkinson’s, and finds herself left to plan his funeral. A stranger shows up, who turns out to be her son’s assistant, Jamie. Her son Tyler, from her first marriage, a journalist and author with whom she has a rocky relationship, is stuck on a story in Sudan and will not be able to make the trip for the funeral and has sent Jamie to help. Diane is gruff, no-nonsense and initially has no use for the effervescent Jamie. But he is good at what he does and so they establish a fragile partnership to move forward. As events unfold, things are not all as they seem, with secrets and resentments coming to the surface as both Diane and Jamie must face their own truths. This film is basically a twohander. Other than a short scene at the church and a couple of sequences with a neighbor, it’s all
32 Mountain News
Diane and Jamie in the house, working through issues as they evolve their fragile relationship. There are no huge revelations though there are some twists and turns, and the film’s strength is in the acting, of both Janney and Andrew Rannells, who plays Jamie. The two characters’ personalities are at opposite ends of the spectrum. The script is tight, though it gets a little over the top by the end, with some of the character revelations a little too scripted. There is natural humor in the interactions of the two but the weight lies in the grief, hurt and resentments that are exposed as they deal with the funeral and each other. Overall, Miss You, Love You is familiar storytelling, but done with a sharp and honest script, held together by two outstanding performances. Teresa loved this film. Another film for fall is a small, British, cyber-heist thriller made in 2025 but just released on Netflix called LifeHack. Kyle and his three friends, fresh out of high school, spend their time gaming and pranking online scammers with their hacking skills. When Kyle discovers a way to hack into a billionaire’s $25 million crypto
account by exploiting his daughter Lindsey's overshared social media presence, the group skims 100K in crypto currency and start to live large. But after they think they have pulled off the perfect crime, Lindsey, who is not as dumb as she seems, catches up with them and gives them an ultimatum: go for the entire $25 million Don has and share it with her, or she will turn them in. With the stakes going up, what began as a thrill-seeking stunt becomes a dangerous game with consequences that could mean serious jail time for all of them. LifeHack is what is called a screenlife film, where we, the audience, watch all the action through phone screens, laptops, PCs or CCTV. We see nothing that isn’t coming from a video source. It also has the frenetic energy of its young characters. Things sometimes move so fast that it is hard to keep up. The first scene, basically introducing the characters, is such a blitz of images, texts and video snippets, it’s hard to capture it all. But through all that, director Ronan Corrigan manages to craft a tight thriller with a young, unknown cast who come across
as authentic characters. They each have their reasons why they mostly live online, and though somewhat cliché, they still ring true, even as the film heads toward a more formulaic ending. Overall LifeHack is a decent thriller done in a unique style that not only provides a fun story but also reminds us in a very realistic way just how vulnerable we are whenever we go online. Last up is a more traditional summer style blockbuster, though it was released directly to Apple TV as opposed to theatres, called Mayday. It stars Ryan Reynolds as Lieutenant Troy Kelly, a hotshot fighter pilot during the latter days of the cold war in 1987. He is chosen for a special black ops mission to record footage in a spy plane over Russia. They are discovered and the plane is shot down deep in Russian territory, forcing Troy to bail out and try to escape to get back home. Injured and bleeding, he is rescued by Nikolai Ustinov, played by Kenneth Branagh, a former KGB agent who left the agency to become a hermit in the Russian wilderness. “Nick” has a love of American culture and sees Troy as Maverick from Top Gun. He would love to keep Troy around, though
Troy, of course, would rather get home. The decision is taken out of their hands as an unscrupulous KGB commander hunting Troy finds them and the chase is on to get out of Russia before they are captured and killed. Mayday is really a buddy comedy as much as an action film. Reynolds is playing the smartass character he does so well, throwing snarky one-liners as the action unfolds, and Branagh, almost unrecognizable under a full bushy beard, is a lot more subtle playing the enigmatic Nick — and is the more interesting of the two. They have good odd couple energy, as frenemies actually become friends. The film moves in predictable directions and the action is standard but well done with some good stunts and fight choreography. There are various points where emotional throughlines temper the comedy and action, giving the film some resonance. Overall, Mayday is a standard buddy comedy action film that steps a bit above the norm with the performances of Reynolds and especially Branagh, making it a fun film to catch. Teresa had fun watching it.
Mountain News 33
Photo Kathryn Reed
Residents at this house on the corner of Jeffrey Street and Tahoe Keys Blvd. go all in for Halloween.
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