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.
SoulCycler Chronicles: From out of the dust in India by Rick Gunn
He’s out there again.
Opening our hearts to the world, redefining our place in humanity through his lens and stories. Our tireless, poetic searcher finding a new rhythm to his life, taking us along for the ride.
The SoulCycler, aka Rick Gunn, adventure photojournalist from South Lake Tahoe recently began another meaningful journey in India.
But, this time he’s not alone…
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 Lake Tahoe TV 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.
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.”
Gary Murphy, Tahoe’s Legendary Snow Forecaster
For 40 winters, Gary Murphy has been counting. From the first flakes to be released from the restless skies of autumn to the serendipitous torrents of May, Gary Murphy is counting; watching; and recording snow’s detail to the point of minutia.
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.
Robert “Fro” Frohlich Mountain Dreamer
With a style his own, full of passion and resolve, he fought hard to maintain our mountain culture. He was a beatnik, a mountain dreamer until the end. He liked to talk about the history and change in this town, but it wasn’t until you read his stories that define us did it hit.
Robert ‘Fro’ Frohlich wrote about his favorite places, pastimes and people around Lake Tahoe, making bocce ball night at Wolfdale’s sound like a soulful experience. And it was for Fro. Surrounded by his friends, he embraced the power of now. Skiing in blizzards or sailing in gale force winds, these intense experiences spurred him on to want more. More for himself, and everyone else.
Magic Mineral Salt Soap and Bath Salts made in Incline Village
Kiss the itches goodbye, and get softer skin, relax and kick that flu with this soap and bath salts made in Incline Village.
What’s the secret ingredient? Minerals from the Dead Sea, of course!
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. read more →
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.
“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.
Elevated Creations Keep on Giving
Rhiannon Corvin-Blackburn started Elevated Creations to make her one-of-a-kind jewelry, and to have an endless means to give back to her community, specifically the South Lake Tahoe Women’s Center.
Tea Time in Tahoe: Birth of A Business in Truckee by Beth Ingalls
Tea Time in Tahoe: The Birth of a Business by Beth Ingalls.
This article is reprinted with permission from the September 2010 issue of Moonshine Ink which covers life in Truckee and the North Lake Tahoe area.
Far West Ski Association Honors The Video/Audio Tour Guide AROUND TAHOE
When the 600 plus members of the Far West Ski Association convene for their 80th annual convention in June at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa in Indian Wells, California, they will honor two of North Tahoe’s more creative ski industry professionals, Darin Talbot and Robert Frohlich.
Both Talbot and Frohlich, long time mainstays of the Tahoe ski scene, are recipients of the 2010 Warren Miller Award for their ambitious and highly entertaining “Around Tahoe: Lake Tahoe’s Ultimate Skiing and Snowboarding Video/Audio Tour Guide.” read more →
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.
Functional Furniture Art by Jacob Morrison
When Jacob Morrison goes wood collecting, it’s not for firewood. The Truckee native has developed a keen eye for spotting logs and limbs that are suitable for his one-of-a-kind rustic furniture pieces.
Bert Anderson: A Tahoe Classic
Bert Anderson: A Tahoe Classic
by Tim Hauserman, Moonshine Ink
A “Bert Anderson” is the quintessential Old Tahoe cabin with pecky cedar or shiplap siding, rock fireplaces, unique square windows, and deck railings with cut-out tree designs. For many, they are the classic Old Tahoe homes.
This article is a reprint from the June-July edition of Moonshine Ink by permission, the Independent News Source for Truckee and North Lake Tahoe. read more →
Handwoven Tapestries and Rugs by Romiti
They have been creating their handwoven award-winning tapestries and rugs for almost 40 years.
Each expressive piece is made by hand, entirely original from the fleece to the finished product.
Meet the Romitis, Judith and Lawrence, of Incline Village.
Steve Lapkin takes Top Honors in “Sailing World” Winter Photo Contest
North Lake Tahoe photographer Steve Lapkin recently took top honors in the Sailing World Winter Photo Contest for two stunning images depicting world class sailing competition.
The contest drew more than 500 submissions of racing images throughout the world from the Great Lakes to the Florida Keys to Australia. However, it was Lapkin’s images of the 2010 Rolex Miami OCR and the 2010 Miami Grand Prix, Finale that captured the first and third place honors.
South Shore Mountaineer Carving a Niche

His deep love of the Sierras drives his passions.
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.
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.
The Benefits of Yoga by David Fishman of South Lake Tahoe
“It makes my day go better.” “It quiets my mind.” “It keeps me healthy.” “Everything flows better afterward.” “My back pain and stiffness are gone.”
“It just plain feels good.”
Just a few quotes David Fishman of Mountain Yoga in South Lake Tahoe hears from happy and healthy locals and visitors.
Todd Jackson: Big Blue Adventurer
Todd Jackson takes full advantage of the recreation and adventure opportunities located out his front door year around in North Lake Tahoe.
Whether skiing backcountry, at the resort or on the groomed skating trails in the winter, or mounting biking, hiking and sailing competitively in the Monday night Laser fleet, Jackson keeps himself active.
His passion for fitness and Lake Tahoe has also landed him at the helm of two successful businesses.
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.
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 →
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.
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.
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 →
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
Polly McGehee of Bodywise Massage
Polly has been the owner of Bodywise Massage in Tahoe City for 16 years. Last year she became a certified Visionary Craniosacral Therapist.
South Shore Log Sculptor
The rustic beauty of logs are sculpted into some very interesting home accents by this South Shore artist.
Remembering Shane McConkey
Lake Tahoe and the world lost one of the most beloved and profound big mountain skiers and BASE jumpers on March 26th; and a wonderful human being.
Not only did Shane McConkey charge while skiing, it’s how he lived his life. On and off the slopes, he brought joy and excitement to every interaction.
Shane’s generosity with his friends and family and humbleness in his business and skiing achievements exemplify a life well lived of epic proportions.
Melissa Lanitis Gregory. In Loving Memory.
She loved art, chocolate, red wine, dogs, recycling, her old and new friends, and her community.
But above all, she loved her sons, Griffin and Gordie, and her adoring husband, Alan; and her father.
Alpine Meadows Patrol Dog Trading Cards now Available
Aside from the safety factor they provide, the Alpine Meadows Patrol Dogs’ “cute factor” is off the Richter scale so Alpine has found a way that guests can take the dogs home with them – sort of.
Ten Alpine Meadows Patrol Dog trading cards are now available at various locations around the resort’s base facility.
Baby Booties and Blankets with Personality

Finally.
Baby clothes that are both functional and fun.
Whether you’re looking for baby clothes for that special little rocker or princess, look no further.
Shaun Palmer, Snowboard Icon still on Top
He has nine Winter X Games gold medals in four different disciplines, six in snowboardcross, and was also the 2001 ESPY Action Sports Athlete of the Year.
Meet Shaun Palmer, legendary snowboarder.
Recycling for Art’s sake.
The beauty of recycling is artistically captured in her unique creations.
“Recycle, Re-create, Re-energize” is the theme of this highly acclaimed local artist who is fascinated with the after life of recycled products.
Snowboarders Saving Lives
I knew snowboarders were creative.
But you have to meet the Automaton Agents.
Stian Solberg Backcountry Junkie
His focus on backcountry riding, discovering new snowboarding destinations, and almost year-round travel means he doesn’t compete in contests. Instead, Stian is known for progressing the sport from an all-mountain perspective – riding challenging natural terrain with style and grace.
Meet Stian Solberg, the newest addition to Sierra-at-Tahoe’s Elite Team.
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