Fireworks spark inquiries

By Susan Wood

Your calendar hasn’t failed you.

The fireworks spectacle on July 13 was set from Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge through a private party so large it takes up most of the resort and spills over into Lakeland Village, lodge and city officials confirmed Wednesday.

The 10-minute, professional-grade display prompted calls to the South Lake Tahoe police and fire departments, along with emails to Lake Tahoe News, from residents on both sides of town.

American Discount Tire, which celebrated its 50th business anniversary, secured the permit with the city fire marshal for the lavish extravaganza involving 500 people and at least 150 trips given away to honor its employees. The company is better known for throwing large volleyball tournaments on the beach.

It was the first for fireworks off shore on a barge.

“It was a Catch 22. If (organizers) had advertised the fireworks, people would have showed up. It was a private party,” said Ray Zachau, city fire marshal. He was on hand to watch the display.

According to Zachau, the 5-inch fireworks shells were half the size of those used in the traditional 4th of July displays.