Melina Wallisch: Embracing the Moments In Between
People are her muse. Nature her backdrop.
With years of being photographed as a professional dancer and model, she has successfully translated her skills behind the lens to capture the heart and soul of her subjects.
Meet Melina Wallisch of South Lake Tahoe. She photographs people.
Christin Hanna of Tahoe Youth Ballet
Her goal is to team up young, emerging dancers with more experienced professionals for engaging evenings of classical and contemporary ballet. Tahoe Youth Ballet premiered in June 2009 to a standing ovation and rave reviews.
Meet Founder and Artistic Director Christin Hanna of Tahoe Youth Ballet.
The Ski Bum Life by Gary Bell
Someone asked me the other day if I was a ski bum.
This was a question that had me standing there going, “huh well uh.”
Geoff Clarke, Sustainable Mountaineer
His obsession with backcountry skiing and adventure all started at age eight. He’d hike up Hobbit Hill in South Lake Tahoe with his dog, Sugar, and ski down.
As the adventures have grown longer and more challenging since chasing Sugar four decades ago, he’s still charging.
Meet Geoff Clarke; mountaineer, backcountry guide, photographer and green builder.
David Butler Wins “Poetry Out Loud” Heads to State finals March 15
David Butler, a senior from South Tahoe High School, took first place in El Dorado County’s inaugural “Poetry Out Loud” competition on February 9th.
In the first round, Butler delivered a flawless performance of the 19th century British poet John Clare’s lyric poem, “I Am!” followed in the second round by a humorous recitation of Marge Piercy’s, “For the young who want to,” a contemporary poem that speaks to the difficulties of being an artist.
Butler is headed to the California state finals in Sacramento on March 15, 2010. Congratulations David! read more →
Long Live the Real Skiers by Gary Bell
So you have your new super fat twin tip skis or that new board with rocker. You can ride switch all day long, throw down corked threes in the big pipe, you’ve dropped the cross on Mount Tallac, won a race or two during gay week and skied Powderhouse in the full moon! Yep pretty hot, right? Well let me tell you about two of my favorite skiers first and then we can take a vote.
This article is a reprint from the January 2010 issue of Tahoe Mountain News found throughout South Lake Tahoe.
Poetry in Motion: Pro Nordic Skier Debbi Waldear
Her competitive spirit was nurtured at a young age racing sailboats in the San Francisco Bay area with her dad. Along with trail running and skiing, her athletic prowess translated into a lifelong passion for fitness and being in the mountains.
Meet eight-time cross country ski racing World Masters Champion, Debbi Waldear.
Tree-Free Art and Recycled Notecards by Kristen Schwartz
Looking for an unique, eco-friendly work of art made in your own backyard?
How about 100% recycled note cards and tree-free art featuring faeries, indigenous folklore and healing traditions from around the globe.
The Pied Piper of Truckee Ben Jammin’
Catch Me if You Can: Keeping pace with Truckee’s Ben Jammin’
by Jackie Varriano, Moonshine Ink
Truckee local Ben “Jammin’” Martin gets around. You might know him as a guitar player in the duo After Eights, maybe you used to sing with him at open mic night at Trio Wine Bar, or play with him now at open mic at the Fat Cat in Tahoe City. Maybe you have taken a ukulele lesson with him, or have a child that takes guitar lessons from him.
This article is a reprint from the December-January edition of Moonshine Ink, the Independent News Source for Truckee and North Lake Tahoe.
“Tahoe Avalanche” and other Tahoe Mysteries by Todd Borg
A classic whodunit mystery thriller written by South Shore author, Todd Borg, perfect for the winter.
Tahoe Avalanche.
Ski Like a Girl. Ingrid Backstrom of North Lake Tahoe.
She defines the phrase “ski like a girl.”
But this is no ordinary girl. Or skier.
North Lake Tahoe pro freeskier Ingrid Backstrom.
Tahoe Fire Glass by Molly B
Molly B of Tahoe Fire Glass has specialized in kiln fired and porcelain jewelry since 1983.
This delicate art form requires meticulous skills and talent due to the fragility of the precious materials used in the settings.
Looks like Molly is a pro!
RearView Miracles by Heather and Hillary
When driving down the road of life, often we don’t know how good we have it, until we see it in the rear view mirror.
To help us remember the beauty of the past and the magic of the moment, Hillary Dembroff and Heather Kovac of South Lake Tahoe have created crystal hangings and jewelry charged with metaphysical and healing properties they call RearView Miracles.
Jamie Anderson, Slopestyle Phenom
Jamie Anderson, a South Lake Tahoe native, is easily considered one of the top female snowboarders in the world.
And, she just won the women’s snowboard slopestyle final at the first stop of the 2009-2010 Winter Dew Tour in Breckenridge, earning a 92.00 in the final, the highest score earned in a women’s snowboard slopestyle event in the history of the Winter Dew Tour. Anderson threw out a backside 180, a switch back 540 and a backside tailslide on the rainbow rail.
Did you know…Truckee has a Winery?

You may have seen the little red barn along the river. It’s the Truckee River Winery where they’ve been making wine since 1989.
Skiing Legend Daron Rahlves Becomes Restaurateur in Truckee
Daron Rahlves, the most decorated American Downhill and Super G skier in history, has a number of passions, with skiing and food are at the top of his list. So it’s logical that Rahlves recently joined the ownership team of Moody’s Bistro & Lounge, an acclaimed restaurant in Truckee, one of the most popular ski towns in America.
They want You…to wear their clothing.
Although you may not be qualified to join this local army, you can at least look like one of them.
The Southshore Soldiers have started a clothing line. read more →
The Art of Nature by Printmaker Michelle Murdock of Quail Lane Press
Through her eco-friendly handcrafted prints and cards, she has captured the art of nature and the nature of art.
Meet Michelle Murdock, printmaker, artist and owner of Quail Lane Press in Tahoe City.
Michelle’s intention is to make relief prints about the environment that do not hurt the environment.
Yes Lake Tahoe, There is a Santa Claus
A bearded, smiling man named Thomas O’Connor was praying for answers about what to do with the rest of his life as he walked down Northwoods Boulevard in Incline Village one morning in 2004.
Then someone leaned out of a car window and called out, “Santa, we love you!” His prayer was answered just like that.
Eco-Champion David Hansen saves Embassy Suites $330K in Energy Bills – So Far!
He cut his teeth with Robert Redford building the award-winning eco-friendly Spa at Sundance Resort in Utah in 2001.
Meet David Hansen, Director of Engineering at Embassy Suites Resort in South Lake Tahoe.
At Sundance, Hansen and his “green” team were given creative license to build a spa that would reflect Redford’s life long stewardship practices and merge nature into the overall sustainable design. Sharing the same philosophies, Hansen and Redford made the perfect team.
Todd Offenbacher: Tahoe Adventure Film Festival Creator
He’s on a mission.
Turn every single person on to the outdoors and fitness. Period.
With his hilarious antics and positive attitude on and off the screen, Todd Offenbacher, world-class climber and Resort Sports Network (RSN) host, embraces every day to the fullest and encourages us all to do the same. While he has taught us all not to take ourselves or life too seriously, Todd has made it his passion to remind us why we chose to live in this special place.
South Shore Drum Chick Liz Broscoe goes Big
It all started when she was just a little girl.
The beat and rhythm of life filled her blood, overflowing with creativity.
Now, she’s sharing her passion for west African drumming and dance with Lake Tahoe.
Meet Liz Broscoe, South Shore Drumchik.
JJ Morgan Jazzes up Truckee
He has been the driving force behind Moody’s reputation as a venue for talented jazz artists.
He also started the Jazz Artists in Residence series held every July, that offers local kids a chance to play with jazz greats, who teach them about various instruments and music for free.
A Glowing Success. Tahoe Candle.
In 1996, Craig Davies came to Lake Tahoe to snowboard.
While he was delivering pizzas, he started making candles and selling them at craft shows.
Tahoe Candle soon became a burning success.
Segmented Woodturning Artist: Malcolm Tibbetts
The shapes defy the expected.
Like a magician, he transforms a myriad of wood pieces into a puzzling, seamless work of art.
How did he do that?
Meet Malcolm Tibbetts, segmented woodturning artist from South Lake Tahoe.
Animal Totem Medicine Bowls & Heart Blessings by Ann Thennes
She helps us discover our deep connections with nature and one another.
Through her artwork and dance classes, she’s made it her life’s mission to help us explore our interconnectedness , and work freely with life’s energies.
Re:mix 2010 Calendar: A Year of being Exactly who you Are
A Year of Being Exactly Who You Are: Calendar benefits foster youth
by Mayumi Elegado, Moonshine Ink
This article is a reprint from the October Print Edition of Moonshine Ink, the Independent News Source for Truckee and North Lake Tahoe.
Bear Boxes with Art & Soul by Bob
Bob had a great idea.
Growing up in Kings Beach you see, Bob always shared something in common with his neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Bear.
Trash.
Yes, Bob loves trash.
Pro Bike Racer opens Frame Shop in South Shore
She’s a pro mountain bike downhill racer.
And art framer.
Meet Tasa Herndon.
Tahoe Locals CD helps The KidZone Museum
It’s no secret at all that Tahoe and Truckee has a rich music scene.
Our year-round playground and gorgeous surroundings fuel the creative juices of local musicians, and their spirit of giving back to their community.
North Tahoe’s Summer Superstars
Four North Tahoe and Truckee athletes recently completed awe-inspiring accomplishments, defining the strength and beauty of Tahoe mountain culture.
by Seth Lightcap, Moonshine Ink
This article is a reprint from the September Print Edition of Moonshine Ink, the Independent News Source for Truckee and North Lake Tahoe.
Soap (and lotions) Made in Tahoe
Tahoe Mountain Soap Company was started by long-time locals, Dave Carr and Jan Carpenter, 12 years ago in South Lake Tahoe.
Marquetry Masterpieces by Tom Beebe
He’s been sharing his passion for fine woodworking and marquetry since 1973 when he moved to Truckee.
Meet Tom Beebe, master craftsman and artist.
Ty Dayberry. Freeheel skier extraordin – AIR.
He started telemark skiing at age 10.
By 21, he’s taken his freeheel art to a higher level.
Locally made Longboard Skateboards
Did you know…Tahoe has its own skateboard manufacturer?
Hand Painted Custom Bellies by Jen Gessler
Looking for that one-of-a-kind gift for the expecting mother?
What about a hand-painted custom belly.
Hat Couture & Wearable Art by Nancy Louise Olson
Form Follows Function is her motto.
Wearable art is her way of connecting with the natural world. Recently published in a national magazine, she has attained recognition deserving of her amazing talent.
Meet Nancy Louise Olson, multi-media fiber arts and hat couture.
Did you know…Truckee has a Farm? Meet The Shaws.
Farmin’ Family – Truckee clan starts town’s first major farm
by Melissa Siig, Moonshine Ink
This article is a reprint from the August Print Edition of Moonshine Ink, the Independent News Source for Truckee and North Lake Tahoe.
It was a book that changed the life of the Shaw family.
Upon the recommendation of a cousin in Berkeley, the family of five got Michael Pollan’s “Omnivore’s Dilemma,” the seminal book about America’s food culture, on audio tape and listened to it whenever they were in the car. read more →
Impressionistic Quilts by Karen Colbert
Is it a Monet? No
Renoir? No
Degas? No!
It’s a Colbert.
Gaia Licious features Made in Tahoe products
Belly Dance outfits. Jewelry. Hats. Books. Clothes. Bags.
If you are looking for something truly different and locally made, visit Gaia Licious in South Shore. It’s an Unique Experiential Boutique.
Bela Vadasz receives AMGA Lifetime Achievement Award
He’s been doing it for 30 years.
IFMGA guide Bela Vadasz, who started Alpine Skills International located in Truckee was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA).
Succulent Planters by Barbara Wesson
As an avid succulent collector, Barbara found it almost impossible to find suitable pots for her specimen plants.
That’s when she decided to make her own and share them with other succulent collectors (and every art lover!)
Meet Barbara Wesson of South Lake Tahoe.
Tahoe-scape Light Fixtures combine Artistry and Function
Can’t get enough Tahoe?
May we suggest a beautiful Tahoe landscape etched into your light fixture.
Tahoe Expressions by Kris Prater
For Kris, the human face is a wonder of beauty. His masks are a cross of themed ideas and dreams that evolve during the creative process into the perfect alter ego.
Meet Kris Prater of Tahoe Expressions in Incline Village.
Leslie Ames, Sustainable to the Core
Her laid back style, love of nature and athletic prowess energize her multiple passions that naturally unfolded for this South Lake Tahoe native.
From white water kayaking, skiing, mountain biking, sailing, hiking or running her solar energy business, Leslie Ames personifies a local green business that was inspired by her roots.
Year-round Surf Shop in Incline Village
Did you know that surfing is a year-round sport in Tahoe?
Especially on the north and east shores where our prevailing southwesterly winds stack up the waves. And, thanks to stand up paddle boards and our passion to get out in any type of weather.
Elevated Creations Keep on Giving
It’s an endless circle of giving.
When you buy this handmade jewelry, 5% of the sale goes to the South Lake Tahoe Women’s Center.
Handbags with Funk & Fashion by Kahlil
Local designer comes full circle, reclaiming herself in the process.
From the big city lights to mountain alpenglow, Kahlil Johnson of Riverside Studios is making her mark with her signature handbags and accessories.
After learning to make shoes in 1996, Kahlil landed a job as a shoe designer in New York City in 2001. At night, she studied handbag construction at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Upon returning from the Big Apple to the Greenest Little Mountain Town, Kahlil started her own line of signature handbags, and accessories to boot.
An Environmentally Conscious Collective in Kings Beach?
Not only do they make snowboards, skateboards and surfboards using eco-friendly materials.
They also feature local art on their board creations.
Trilogy Arts in Kings Beach.
Soulcycler Rick Gunn on the Road Again
After three years, 33 countries and 25,811 miles around the globe by bicycle, he’s back on the road again.
Rick Gunn, photojournalist and bicycle adventurer, aka Soulcycler, is headed down another path of travel and self-discovery, this time starting in Scotland.
keep looking »

















