Tahoe Donner News – April 2015 by Tahoe Donner Association

APRIL 2015 tahoedonner.com |

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

REDUCE. REUSE. RECYCLE. This April, as we celebrate Earth Day, see how Tahoe Donner is doing its part. P16

GRETCHEN SPROEHNLE

SNOWMAKING Explore the dollars and “sense” of snowmaking at Tahoe Donner in this third article in our series on snowmaking.

P08

SUMMER CONCERT Mark your calendar now... our Summer Concert on the Green will take place on July 3. You won’t want to miss this one!

P11

RUNNING CLUB The Donner Party Running Club was founded by Tahoe Donner resident Helen Pelster and friends.

P22

DEPARTMENTS

TAKE NOTE

President’s Message Consider running for the board election

April events What’s going on this month

Board Election One position open for 2015 election

Let’s Get Together Mark your calendars for deals and fun

ASO’s Newest Face Meet our new compliance inspector

Golf News Get a (new) grip; Titleist ball promo

Our Latest Awards Prestigious awards for weddings, dining

Vitality Connection Put the “fun” back into your workout

TD Giving Fund Education and arts in our community

Covenants 101 Introduction to Covenants Committee

Pipeline Replacement Summer road construction schedule

Where in the World is TD News? TD News travels the world

I-Did-A-Run a Huge Success Proceeds benefitted Humane Society

VOL. 16, NO. 04

WELCOME

APRIL 2015

EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION STAFF Brinn Talbot Gretchen Sproehnle Jody Sergison Ashley Quadros

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Jim Stang, jcstang@sbcglobal.net

Vice President

Tom Johns, btjtd@aol.com

Treasurer

Steve Miller, smiller@tahoedonner.com

Secretary

Ron Wulff, rwulff@sbcglobal.net

Director

Courtney Murrell, 2courtneymurrell@gmail.com

Board of Directors

board@tahoedonner.com

Postmaster Send address changes to Tahoe Donner News, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161 530-587-9400, Fax 530-587-9419

comdep@tahoedonner.com

Advertising Sales Creative Concepts + Media is the exclusive advertising representative. 775-327-4200.

Publishing Information Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an infringement of that service mark right and is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Tahoe Donner Association or its board of directors of the products, services, or views contained therein. Tahoe Donner News (ISSN 1550-6061) is the official monthly publication of Tahoe Donner Association, which is located at 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161. Each membership parcel receives one subscription to a domestic address. Additional subscriptions are available at the cost of $25 each. Cost to produce and distribute this publication is offset by advertising revenues. Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and additional mailing offices. Member letters to Tahoe Donner are published in the Members section of tahoedonner.com, where publishing guidelines are available.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE A warm greeting to you all!! It is the middle of March and, as I write this, the temperature is 61 degrees and there is no longer any snow around my house. I played three rounds of golf at Old Brockway in February on sunny warm days. In my 20-plus years at Tahoe Donner, I have yet to observe a winter quite like this. I am, however, thankful that I do not live in the Northeast. If I could wish for favorable weather now, it would be to end the winter with lots of rain at our elevation and snow at the higher elevations. However, I am looking forward to an early start to our summer activities. As a reminder to our homeowners, we have to elect one new board member to replace Vice President Tom Johns, whose term expires in June. I am sincerely thankful to Tom for his years of dedicated service. Given your many accomplishments I sincerely hope you will consider running for another term. I implore our members to vote in the upcoming 2015 director election and, if you are concerned about Tahoe Donner’s future, consider running as a candidate. Following are my thoughts on what Tahoe Donner is and what I would like to see in a candidate. Tahoe Donner Association is a common interest development association and a corporation. Board members have a fiduciary duty to the association. We are required to observe rules and regulations from many different government agencies, such as federal (IRS 501(c) (4), and others), state (Davis-Stirling, Water Board, Fish and Wildlife, and others), Nevada County, and the Town of Truckee. Sometimes the rules and regulations overlap and sometimes they conflict.

We constantly endeavor to follow the letter and spirit of the law. Given the complexity of Tahoe Donner’s tasks and our size, I like to think of Tahoe Donner as a municipality. We are governed by an elected board, follow rules set forth in governing documents, employ a staff to run the operation, and provide a number of services to our members (think parks and recreation and public works). As our director of finance and accounting keeps reminding me, “there are many moving parts to this association.” Before I comment on the ideal candidate, I would like to comment on Tahoe Donner’s committees and staff. As a board member I value their counsel. Our committees are member volunteers who put in a great deal of time and effort to advise the board. Their experience, knowledge, and dedication are a great asset to the association. Our staff is in the best position to report on the day-to-day operations. They are a dedicated group of employees and through their reporting to the general manager, the board is kept apprised of current situations and conditions. What are some attributes needed in a candidate for the board? First, a forward-thinking and dedicated person who wishes to maintain our family-orientated community. I use “family” in a very generic sense, as it could be any count from one to many people. The candidate should work to maintain and enhance our recreational, residential and environmental character. He or she should have an understanding of business and accounting. Importantly, the candidate must be willing to learn on the job, to commit at least 40 hours (Continued on p. 4)

tahoedonner.com |

April

APRIL 3 AND 18

FOR ADDITIONAL APRIL EVENTS SEE

LET’S GET TOGETHER ON PAGE 10 Kids Night Out Designed for little ones, kids will enjoy arts and crafts, games and even dinner. Sign up in advance at tahoedonner.com/shop. SUNDAY, APRIL 5

Easter Eggstravaganza Meet the Easter Bunny! This “eggstra” special day includes an Easter egg hunt and entertainment. See page 10. SUNDAY, APRIL 5

Easter Brunch at The Lodge

THE EASTER BUNNY’S HELPERS AT TAHOE DONNER DOWNHILL SKI AREA, EARLY 2000 S

ON THE COVER Tahoe Donner resident Cathrin Barsch was driving at the top of Skislope Way with her daughter when 15 large deer ran across the road. The sun was behind them, illuminating their antlers beautifully. Thanks, Cathrin!

It’s all-you-can-eat breakfast or lunch! Easter Brunch even includes one complimentary mimosa or glass of champagne. See page 14. MONDAY, APRIL 6

ALL EVENTS ARE DEPENDENT ON CONDITIONS. PLEASE CHECK TAHOEDONNER.COM OR CALL 530-587-9400 FOR UPDATES. ALL MONTH

MONDAYS, ALL MONTH

Recreation Program Registration Begins

Burger and Beer Special at The Lodge

3 for 2 Pizza Special

Don’t miss out! All the old favorites return,

This special is so tasty, you could even win

Buy any two pizzas and get a third pizza for

plus new camps like our Recreation Adven-

prizes! Please note: we will be closed April

free. All combinations included. Offer valid

ture Days (RAD). See page 4.

20-May 3. See page 4.

only on Mondays. See page 14. tahoedonner.com |

(Continued from p. 2) per month, to participate in committee meetings and carry out board-assigned responsibilities. Last week I sat in on the Finance Committee meeting specifically to hear their discussion on snowmaking at the Downhill Ski Area. I attended the town hall meeting as well, where snowmaking was discussed at length, and I read many email comments on the issue. The Finance Committee reviewed a revised Development Fund Schedule that would fund the proposed project with existing funds and also discussed projected financial returns and business needs for snowmaking. Ultimately, the committee voted unanimously to recommend that the board approve the proposed snowmaking project. At that meeting we also heard from the association’s auditor that the

audit went smoothly with good results (just as the last five audits have). Gilbert and Associates provided the board with the results of the association’s annual audit at the March 27, 2015 board meeting. My last two comments concern the Town of Truckee. The first issue is using 96-gallon containers for yard waste. The topic was pulled from the Town Council meeting on March 10. I used these containers when I lived in the Bay Area, and they worked in that environment. The board expressed their concern that using them in Tahoe Donner might not be such a good idea. Concerns include our topography (steep driveways), Tahoe Donner’s requirement that the containers must be stored inside when not out for pickup (limited space in our garages), 80 percent non-resident owners, and

a decrease in collection volume (container holds about 15 cubic feet versus approximately 27 cubic feet for four bags). We need to work with the Town of Truckee to find a workable solution to green bags. Finally, I need to correct my statement regarding the town’s Tree Preservation Ordinance. I incorrectly stated that the ordinance could hinder our ability to efficiently and effectively manage our 7,000 acres of forests. There is another ordinance, 18.30.080, Grading and Vegetation Removal, that contains exemptions granting Tahoe Donner’s Forestry Department the necessary latitude to manage our forest. I thank John McLaughlin for making me aware of this ordinance.

BURGER AND BEER SPECIAL AT THE LODGE

We are mixing it up a little this April with our Burger and Beer promo-

tion. The Lodge has teamed up with Deschutes Brewery to offer several of their draft beers to go with our half-pound Black Angus burger, served with shoestring fries for just $13. Choose from Deschutes Brewery’s best: The Mirror Pond Pale Ale is a classic single hop that is floral and crisp, yet delicate and smooth. Brewed with only whole cone Cascade hops, it is a traditional pale ale for the ages. Deschutes pioneered the style, “Northwest Pale Ale,” with the seasonal Red Chair Northwest Pale Ale; it has an intense hop flavor and aroma without overwhelming bitterness. Red Chair has huge doses of Centennial and Cascade hops yet utilizes seven different types of malt for an unbelievably plush and silky finish. It is bright and juicy with a flavor profile like none other; perhaps this is why it won best beer at the World Beer Awards in 2010 and 2012. The Chainbreaker White IPA, named after the legendary “Cascade Chainbreaker” mountain bike race in Central Oregon, is a true blend of styles. It is brewed with Belgian yeast, wheat malt, sweet orange peel, coriander and a heavy dosing of Citra hops. Its citrus flavor holds a touch of spiciness. So, come in and pair a great beer with a great burger. For every burger order in the month of April you will be entered to win some great prizes. We will hold the drawing and winners will be notified after April 19; need not be present to win.

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

SUMMER REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR ALL PROGRAMS Don’t miss out on all the wonderful camps and programs Tahoe Donner has to offer for kids this summer season. School will be out before we know it, so now is the time to get the calendar out and start making plans for a summer of fun. Explore: HORSEMANSHIP CAMPS - Week-long riding camps teach kids horsemanship fundamentals. BIKEWORKS CAMPS - Kids will enjoy a fun, safe environment where they can improve their general mountain biking skills while exploring trails. Weekend and week-long camps available. AQUATICS PROGRAMS - Children will learn to swim and improve their endurance and skills through a variety of water games and swimming drills. DAY CAMPS - Kids will explore beach outings, hiking, rock climbing and more. RECREATION PROGRAMS – Starting April 6, members can sign up for our Rec programs. Check out our new RAD (Recreation Adventure Days) Camps, plus archery, rock climbing, and more. SIGN UP NOW - programs fill quickly! For more details and step-by-step registration information, see tahoedonner.com and navigate to your program of choice. Questions? Call Member Services at 530-587-9400, ext. 0.

facebook.com/tahoedonner twitter.com/tahoedonner instagram.com/tahoedonnerassociation/ TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS Member Communications (area code 530) Member Services

587-9400

info@tahoedonner.com

General Manager

587-9431

gm@tahoedonner.com

Contact Member Services to be transferred to other administrative departments.

Amenities Alder Creek Campground 587-9462

campground@tahoedonner.com

Beach Club Marina

marina@tahoedonner.com

587-9460

Bikeworks 582-9694 bikeworks@tahoedonner.com Dickson Corporate Logos Cross Country Ski Center 587-9484

xcski@tahoedonner.com

Downhill Ski Area

587-9444

ski@tahoedonner.com

Equestrian Center

587-9470

Dickson Realty Logo equestrian@tahoedonner.com

Forestry 587-9432 forestry@tahoedonner.com Golf Course

587-9443

golf@tahoedonner.com

The Lodge

587-9455

lodge@tahoedonner.com

Pizza On The Hill

582-9669

pizza@tahoedonner.com

Recreation Info Hut

587-9413

troutcreek@tahoedonner.com

Tennis Center

587-9474

tennis@tahoedonner.com

Trails 582-9672 trails@tahoedonner.com Corporate Blue Logo: Trout Creek Rec. Center

587-9437

Can be used on white or light photo troutcreek@tahoedonner.com background

Tahoe Donner Association Committee Chairs Architectural Standards, Rod Whitten aso@tahoedonner.com Covenants, Al Noyes

alandjosi@gmail.com

Elections, Bonnie Watkins

bwatkins@tahoedonner.com

Finance, Jeff Bonzon

jdbonzon@yahoo.com

Unacceptable Uses of Dickson Realty Logo

General Plan Committee Co-Chair, Michael Fajans mhfajans@gmail.com General Plan Committee Co-Chair, John Stubbs stujod@sfsu.edu Giving Fund Co-Chair, Merle Fajans

tdgf@tahoedonner.com

Giving Fund Co-Chair, Dick Gander

tdgf@tahoedonner.com

White Logo:

Can be used on Corporate Blue Dinny backgroundEvans or dark photo back-

Realtor® ground

DRE #01126819

Direct

530.414.1420 Website

HighAltitudeHomes.com

Tahoe Donner Association Chartered Club Presidents Bridge Club, Robin Reese

rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Friends of TD Trails, B.R. Levine

tdtrails@gmail.com

Rowing Club, Dot Mace

dotmace@me.com

Senior Alpine Ski, Dave Wallace

dwallace0717@gmail.com

Tennis, John McGregor

jmpj1964@gmail.com.

9-Holers, Marianne Bowers

mariannebowers@hotmail.com Dickson Realty Tagline

Men’s Golf, Bob Moore

bob4moore@aol.com

Women’s Golf, Fran Macomber

franmacomber@aol.com

Hiking Club, Robin Reese

rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Quilt Club, Linda Brush

sewlinda@aol.com

TD 4-Wheelers Club, Bill Ratcliff

Corporate Blue Logo: jslai@comcast.net Can be used on white or light photo td4wheelers@gmail.com background Corporate Blue Logo

Equestrian Club, Susan Terrell

terrellsf@earthlink.net

Junior Golf Club, Jean Lai

If you can dream it up, you can team it up. - Richie Norton

White Logo: Can be used on Corporate Blue background or dark photo background with White Logo

Kaili

Dinny

Megan

We’re off and running with a great start to 2015 both at Dickson Realty and High Altitude Homes! As we focus on our past sales statistics and more importantly, our goals for the future we’d welcome conversations with you about what your Tahoe Donner and Truckee real estate needs are. Working as a team, give us a call with questions or comments. We’ll try to help, unless you ask us to make it snow!!

Dinny, Kaili & Megan

tahoedonner.com |

TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTOR ELECTION PROCEDURES February 28 | The board approves the 2015

manner, and candidates are advised as to their

ally delivered ballots shall be accepted and

election procedures, appoints the Inspector

qualifications to run.

replacement ballots shall be available during

of Election, authorizes the engagement of an accountancy firm (subject to ratification by Inspector of Election) for ballot counting services, and establishes May 1, 2015 as the record date for this election. March | Along with their March statement

Candidates are invited to submit a candidate’s statement (not to exceed two 8.5- by 11-inch pages), which will be mailed, as

June 19 | Deadline for receipt of director election ballots mailed or personally delivered

only be reviewed for compliance with the size

directly to the accountancy firm is 5 p.m.

due to the association are sent notice of the

formed, and the association shall not be liable

pending suspension of their membership

for their content. If any statement received

rights, to include voting rights, by board action

fails to comply with the size limitation, the

on April 25, 2015, to become effective as of

author is advised that such statements will not

May 1, 2015, unless full payment is received by

be accepted.

suspension. Such a request must be received by April 24, 2015, and the hearing would be held on April 25, 2015. April 1 | Candidacy applications will be made available in the Member Services office at Northwoods Clubhouse.

person.

election ballot. Candidates’ statements shall limitation—no review of content shall be per-

to a hearing before the board regarding the

Identification is required to submit ballot in

submitted, to the membership along with the

of account, owners with outstanding amounts

May 1. Owners are also advised of their right

this meeting until its adjournment at 5 p.m.

May 8 | Candidates’ statements must be received at the Member Services office no later than 4 p.m. No electronically transmitted (facsimile, e-mail, etc.) statements will be accepted, except for those transmitted via e-mail in PDF format to electionscommittee@ tahoedonner.com.

June 21 | The annual membership meeting will be held from 10 a.m. to noon. Personally delivered ballots are accepted at the annual membership meeting from 10 to 11:30 a.m., at which time voting in the director election shall conclude. Replacement ballots shall be available until the conclusion of voting. Identification is required to submit a ballot in person. Prior to the conclusion of the meeting, the results of the election will be announced unless less than 25 percent of the voting power of the association (quorum requirement) has submitted valid ballots. In such case, the

May 23 | As provided by Article VII, Sec-

failure to achieve a quorum will be announced

April 25 | The board of directors approves

tion 5 (d) of the Amendments to the Restated

(but not the vote tally), and the meeting, along

the pending suspension of membership rights

Bylaws, if one, but no more than one, eligible

with the culmination of the election, will be

for failure to pay outstanding amounts due the

candidate has submitted his or her timely

adjourned to the following morning.

association (assessments, fines, etc.) or for fail-

application for the one available seat, the

ure to comply with a duly issued corrective-

board of directors declares that candidate

action requirement. (Member hearings, if any,

elected and the director election concluded.

will be conducted at this time.)

June 22 | As a result of a failure to achieve the 25 percent quorum requirement, the annual membership meeting is reconvened

June 6 | Candidates’ Night to take place at

at 10 a.m. at Northwoods Clubhouse for the

Northwoods Clubhouse, 7 - 9 p.m. (Note: Only

purpose of concluding the annual election

tion for candidacy, proof of ownership (copy of

candidates who have formally filed and been

of directors in accordance with a reduced 15

recorded deed), and conflict of interest state-

certified are eligible to appear on the dais or

percent quorum requirement.

ment. Close of nominations is 4 p.m.

otherwise act as a candidate at this forum.)

May 1 | Deadline for submittal of applica-

May 1 | Elections Committee and staff meet

June 19 | At 9 a.m., board convenes an

The election results are announced and posted at Northwoods Clubhouse, and

to verify the eligibility of those candidates

open board meeting for the accountancy firm

published in Tahoe Donner News, following

whose applications were received in a timely

to commence tabulation of ballots; person-

certification by the Inspector of Election.

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

ONE POSITION OPEN FOR 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE APRIL 1, 2015 Applications for candidacy for the one open director position to be

serve the association, strongly consider running for the open position.

filled in the 2015 election are available in the Member Services office

Qualifications for and responsibilities of directors are posted on the

in the Northwoods Clubhouse. Applications may also be mailed to you

association’s web site at tahoedonner.com/board/elections. Election

upon request; call 530-587-9431. Applications must be submitted by 4

procedures are provided in the accompanying article. If you would like

p.m. on May 1, 2015, to the elections committee lockbox in the Member

additional information, feel free to contact the Elections Committee at

Services office.

electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com. Current members of the board

If you have leadership or other skills and experience that could

would also welcome your questions; see tahoedonner.com/board.

MEET THE NEWEST FACE OF ASO The next time you are in Northwoods

and maintain their property values,” said

Clubhouse, stop by the Architectural

Davis, who added he’d enjoy meeting

Standards Office (ASO) to meet the newest

more members of the Tahoe Donner com-

member of the team, Darren Davis.

munity. He’s lived in Truckee for 15 years

Davis comes to Tahoe Donner with 30

now, and when he isn’t helping home-

years of experience in buying, selling and

owners with their properties, you can

maintaining real estate, in addition to work-

find him enjoying the great outdoors or

ing as a landscape contractor, which makes

listening to music.

him perfect for his new role as compliance

To learn more about Davis, or if you

inspector. His duties include interacting with

have questions about Tahoe Donner

Tahoe Donner members, helping to solve

C&Rs or the Homeowner Inspection

any C&R concerns, and performing exterior

Program, stop by ASO or contact him

property inspections to ensure compliance

directly at 530-587-9406 or by email at

with the Homeowner Inspection Program.

ddavis@tahoedonner.com.

“I enjoy helping homeowners improve

Living and working in Tahoe Donner since 1990 DAVID WRIGHT, Realtor R

TEXT, EMAIL or CALL ME

There are approximately 50 homes, 18 condos and 31 lots on the market in Tahoe Donner. Contact me for details on any of these, or to see where your property fits into this market, and to get my summary for TD home, condo and lot sales from 2006 to 2015. No obligation, no scripted responses, STRAIGHTFORWARD and COURTEOUS service.

530.412.1241 TD@TahoeDavid.com www.TruckeeandTahoeproperties.com BRE#01068250

tahoedonner.com |

Amenity Use and Financia

FEATURE

$3,000,000

REVENUE AND NOR DOLLARS

$2,500,000

The Dollars and Sense of Snowmaking

$2,000,000 $1,500,000 $1,000,000 $500,000 $0 -$500,000 -$1,000,000

BY MICHAEL SULLIVAN | GENERAL PLAN COMMITTEE

Tahoe Donner purchase insurance against this loss of revenue? Most of the 15 ski areas in the Tahoe region consider snowmaking as insurance against business interruption. For the Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area, the difference in revenue between the good 2012/2013 snow season and the bad 2013/2014 snow season was over $2.6 million and the difference in Net Operating Results (NOR) was $1.7 million. It should be noted that to operate a ski area requires hiring and training staff prior to the season. In addition, during the off-season, the equipment must be maintained and inspected to ensure it complies with regulatory agency standards. The cost of these activities is incurred whether there is good snow or not.

The Downhill Ski Area is such an integral part of Tahoe Donner Association’s financial health that the lack of snow last year resulted in an increase in each individual member’s annual assessment of almost $100. As the general manager pointed out in last month’s Tahoe Donner News, 59 percent of the $15.6 million operating budget comes from revenue generated by operations (41 percent comes from the member assessment). Historically, the Downhill Ski Area has contributed one-quarter of the operating revenue. The lack of snow in the last two seasons dramatically reduced operating revenue so that the assessment had to be increased even though operating expenses were reduced by vigorous austerity measures. Can Lesson rate Lesson Penetration(1).xlsx

A committee of homeowner volunteers, collaborating with Tahoe Donner staff members, have spent more than a year analyzing snowmaking alternatives. Currently, bids for a snowmaking system on the 15-acre beginner area of the Snowbird chairlift are being solicited. Previous indications from vendors estimated the complete system would cost between $750,000 and $1 million. One season of bad snow pays for the system; we have experienced bad snow years in approximately one out of every five years. We chose to explore snowmaking on the beginner area because Tahoe Donner’s niche in the North Tahoe ski market is beginners and families. We don’t expect to compete with Squaw Valley or Northstar for experienced skiers

Lesson Penetration(1).xlsx

LESSON "PENETRATION" RATE

SKI AREA VISITS PER SEASON

Visits 50%

Note: In the 11/12 Season the ski area was closed forChristmas, New Year and MLK

60,000

45% 40%

50,000

35% 30%

40,000

25% 30,000

20% 15%

20,000

10% 10,000 0

DOLLARS PER VISIT ("YIELD") BY SEASON

5% 09/10

10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 Season = December 1 to November 30

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

14/15

$/Visit $100

70,000 $88

60,000

$90 $80

VISITS PER SEASON

70,000

Yield CHT

% Lessons

% OF VISITS THAT TOOK LESSONS

Visits

but we believe we continue to prove to be “The Best Place to Begin.” There are approximately 400 ski areas in the U.S. and the average number of lessons per visit is 7.8 percent. At Tahoe Donner, the lesson penetration rate (number of lessons per visit) averages 22 percent and goes up when ski conditions are limited. Casual skiers may be turned off by poor conditions but learners are not. We employ over 100 instructors when conditions are good and still turn away customers when lesson capacity is full. Because the price for a lesson package is greater than the price for a simple lift ticket, the average yield (revenue/visit) goes up dramatically when skiing is limited. During the holiday period of the 2014/2015 season, only the Snow-

$74

50,000 $58

40,000 30,000

$48

$70

$60

$60 $50

$47

$40 $30

20,000

$20 10,000 0

$10 09/10

10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 Season = December 1 to November 30

14/15

DOLLARS PER VISIT

THE DOLLARS

als v3.3(1).xlsx

Rev_NOR 13_14

COMPARISON OF GOOD SNOW SEASON TO BAD SNOW SEASON Season Revenue

Season NOR

$2,903,929

$864,217 $325,131

2012 / 2013

2013 / 2014

Season = December 1 to November 30

bird lift, servicing the beginner area, was open due to snow conditions. We measured 60 percent of the visits of a normal season. The scenario that achieves break even requires 40 percent of normal

-$831,690

THE SENSE Tahoe Donner is a recreationoriented mountain residential community. Many homeowners purchase homes here to take advantage of the recreational

visits at a $55 yield (dollars per

facilities. Our demographic data

visit). The committee believes that

indicates a significant number

at least this level of attendance will

of families select Tahoe Donner.

be achieved with snowmaking in

Skiing and learning during school

place.

holidays is important to these

members. In fact, in good snow years, over 10,000 visits to the ski hill are made by members and their guests in the December and January school holiday period. Snowmaking is the only way to guarantee skiing and learning during this time. The most important reason to consider snowmaking is not financial performance or customer service but rather continuity. This is evidenced in two ways: • Reputation/brand - The ski community is small enough to have its own reputation. Each of the ski areas in the North Tahoe region has a unique identity and ours is “The Best Place to Begin.” We can easily acquire a new and less favorable identity if we continue to be unreliable as a destination during the school holiday period when learning to ski is one of the primary focal points of the customer base. • Seasonal employees - Most of the amenities at Tahoe Donner depend on seasonal employ-

ees, some with special skills such as ski instructors. One of the most common questions of perspective employees is, “Do you have snowmaking?” The best potential employees have the opportunity to choose their employer and we are at a disadvantage if we cannot offer reliable employment for the ski season. There are alternatives. We can continue to live with the whims of Mother Nature, although the bulk of other ski areas have decided the risk is too great. We could close down the ski area when conditions are poor, although our estimate is that the cost of reopening is steep and may be impossible if the seasonal employees have gone to other winter resorts that are operating because they have snow. We could go out of the ski business at the risk of a possible impact on our property values. After considering all the alternatives, the committee recommended to the board that the investment in the insurance of snowmaking is worth the cost.

ATTENTION

TO DETAIL

IS THE CORNERSTONE

OF OUR BUSINESS.

SNOW REMOVAL CLIENTS GET 10% OFF PAINT, STAIN, DECK RESTORATION AND DRIVEWAY SEALING. STOP BY FOR A TOUR OF OUR FACILITY & TO PICK UP A FREE REUSABLE GROCERY TOTE.

tahoedonner.com |

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The Easter Bunny will host an Easter Eggstravaganza hunt for kids

with plenty of eggs to go around. Kids 12 and under will enjoy carnival games, spoon races, crafts, face painting and a performance by Penney the Bunny. DATE: SUNDAY, APRIL 5 WHERE: THE LODGE RESTAURANT & PUB TIME: 11 A.M. - 1 P.M. THE EASTER BUNNY ARRIVES AT 11:30 A.M. AND THE EGG HUNT BEGINS AT NOON. SEE TAHOEDONNER. COM FOR A COMPLETE EGG HUNT SCHEDULE FOR ALL AGE GROUPS.

Friday Family Movie Night FREE! Bring a pillow and blanket, kick your feet up and enjoy either a classic or new movie starting at 6:30 p.m. every Friday at Northwoods Clubhouse. Friday Family Movie Night movies are rated G and PG.

Trivia Night Enjoy a pizza from Pizza on the Hill while showing off your brain power every Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. You may even win prizes or gift certificates! No charge for Trivia night; event is subject to cancellation by 7:15 p.m. if there is insufficient attendance.

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

season course conditions. If you act now, we are offering big discounts

Summer Concert On The Green

and a Titleist personalized golf ball promotion (see page 20) for a lim-

Mark your calendars now! We’re recreating the iconic eras of Beatles

ited time.

and Stones history with two bands performing at this summer’s Concert on the Green. Two all-star tribute bands are scheduled this

Season Passes and Multi-Play Packs on Sale at Discounted Rates Through April 30

summer: Britain’s Finest, bringing the complete Beatles experience to Tahoe Donner, and the Glimmer Twins, a Rolling Stones tribute band.

Purchase early to save the most! With very few exceptions, 2015

You won’t believe how much they sound like the real deal! Bring the

golf passes, packs and daily green fees remain the same as last sum-

whole gang and prepare for a rockin’ and nostalgic evening under the

mer; most are unchanged since 2013. Tahoe Donner members may buy

stars. More information available online. Don’t wait – this event will

rounds in advance for as low as $45 per round – a 25 percent savings.

sell out!

Purchase your multi-play packs by April 30* and take advantage of

DATE: FRIDAY, JULY 3 TIME: DOORS 5 P.M.; CONCERT 6 P.M.

these great savings:

WHERE: TAHOE DONNER DRIVING RANGE

• • • •

COST: $35 ADULTS, $15 AGES 7-12, FREE 6 & UNDER. ADD $5 DAY OF EVENT

ROGER BURNS | RECREATION SUPERVISOR

20-play pack for $45 per round, a 25 percent savings! 10-play pack for $50 per round, a 17 percent savings! 5-play pack for $55 per round, an 8 percent savings! Member packs are transferable between members of the same family! Buy a season pass for even better savings! BONUS: Those who buy an

unlimited season pass by April 30 will receive six vouchers for friends to receive 50 percent off regular green fees; purchase a midweek pass and you’ll get three vouchers. Rates go up May 1, so don’t delay! Take advantage of early-season pricing now. *Savings are based on comparison to core season prime time member daily play rate of $60. Visit tahoedonner.com for more details.

Order Titleist Personalized Golf Balls — Limited Time Offer

assigned in May on a lottery. Applications

must be completed in full and submitted R

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Summer Boat Storage

Last Day to Play BBQ – Sunday, April 12

opportunity to meet some of our members.

Help us bring the season to a close by join-

application can be obtained online at tahoedon-

(available for purchase).

ner.com/golf/clubs or in person at the Member

TIME: 10 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

Services office in Northwoods Clubhouse. If

DON HOE

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Grassplay I C E S will close for the season after

you have questions, please contact our club president Marianne Bowers at

A another fun year.

mariannebowers@hotmail.com.

P & INFORM

Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club

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Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club would

JUST SOLD

like to welcome any Tahoe Donner woman who

EK CRE R T U TRO CENTE REC

12136 Brookstone Drive- $649,900

enjoys playing golf. We have regular play days on Tuesdays

I VAT E A M

throughout summer and fall with several inhouse tournaments and opportunities to play

I V AT E A

PWGA tournaments at various golf courses

N ME

outside of our area. We have a lot of fun! Come

B C LU H C We interviewed four agents E before B A ARINA selecting The Sharp Team, because M IS N Member Gym Orientation they had the best knowledge and N TE TER Friday, April 24 N to represent our Tahoe E Cexperience IT

join us. Email the Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf

RIV Trout Creek Recreation Center staff will AT E A Mhouse. Each member of the Donner offer members an orientation to the center’s team has an expertise, which forms a ER O N N tour facilities and programs. strong team. Janie understood the N and learn O E DTakeIaO TA H T Athe proper use of E R about facility policies and market situation in our neighborhood R E CP R EV OG and held firm about the price she felt O D Sequipment from a certified R A M S &personal trainer. O W We recommend wearing comfortable clothwe could get, and in the end weHreT NOR POOL ing. Signups are required 24 hours in advance. ceived a price which was better than N PR E R I VAT E A M NNE Owhat D we expected. The Sharp Team Please call 530-587-9437 for more informaE O RKS TA H O W was outstanding every step of the tion. B I KR EE EP N TA way. R & LS

Club at tdwgclub@gmail.com for an application or visit tdwomengolf.org.

TD Men’s Golf Club

Spring is already upon us and with it comes a renewed interest in our spectacular golf

course. The 2014 golf season was one of the most productive and enjoyable in over a decade.

The 2015 season looks to be even more enjoyable. With limited snow, the ground crews will

TIME: 4 P.M.

– Mr. & Mrs. Chan, 2014

likely get an early start on course opening and

Kids Club Tumble Time

maintenance.

Does your child have a lot of energy? Let We Are Your Tahoe Donner Experts.

Call Us Today (530) 587-8574

The men’s and women’s golf clubs are plan-

them burn it off at Tumble Time at the Trout

ning to host course cleanup days again this year

Creek Kids Club. We’ll sing, dance, run, jump

on the first two Saturdays in May: May 2 and

and learn to move with grace and balance.

May 9 (weather and course conditions permit-

Please note, we are now requiring advance

ting). The purpose of these cleanup days is to

O TA H

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530-582-9604 to reserve your spot.

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N D Olast great turnout year T R Yand hope to exceed that HOE

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ers, regardless if they have joined a golf club. Please mark your calendar and stay tuned for

www.TheSharpTeam.com 17400 Northwoods Blvd

(530) 587-8754

ARE INTE

E The first men’s club tournament, theTIceAHO

Attention Tahoe Donner women golfers! The Tahoe Donner Women’s 9-Holers Golf Club invites you to join us for preseason play R

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Women’s 9-Holers Golf Club

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more details to follow.

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| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

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offers fun activities, music and delicious BBQ

L AY OW P

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non-pressured environment. A membership

RV R S EApril 12. Thank you for joining us for MBE TA

NE DON

We are a fun group that loves golf in a

ing us for the Last Day to Play BBQ. This event

pants and sweaters close at hand for this annual event, but based on the

backcountry—we have a great time and have some very nice people in the

weather so far this year, you may only need shorts and sunscreen.

club. For more information, visit our website at td4wheelers.com or send

A recent change in the men’s club bylaws was approved by Tahoe

an email to td4wheelers@gmail.com. Also, look for more details on our

Donner Association’s board. This change allows for a limited number of

Sierra 4x4 Trails and Ales event sponsored by our club coming to Tahoe

non-property owners to join the men’s club. These individuals will be

Donner in July.

identified as “associate members” and will be able to play in all men’s club events at the guest rates. If you are a property owner and join the men’s club, you are welcome to invite a friend or off-the-hill neighbor to join the club. Applications for membership are found on our club’s bulletin board just outside the pro shop or on the website at tdgolfclub.com.

Tahoe Donner Senior Alpine Ski Club With the challenging winter conditions, our club board has worked hard over the last two months to try to either postpone or change several of our ski clinics and club races, but to no avail. The snow did not come through for us when we needed it! On the bright side, many of our intrepid members have come out to ski

TD 4 Wheelers Club February’s great weather again took the club to Nevada to explore

on our Monday and Thursday club ski days. Considering the snow condi-

a mining district outside of northwest Reno. The area is known as the

tions, Northstar, Alpine and Squaw have come through with snowmaking

Poeville Mining District, named after John Poe. Poe discovered a rich

to give us some good skiing on usually very sunny days.

vein of gold, pyrite and copper in the area and subsequently, the town

Apart from skiing, the club has had two social activities. Our potluck

of Poeville was born. The town was established in 1863 and grew to a

at the ski hill in February added a surprise activity of bingo, which was

population of over 200. Interestingly, John Poe was purportedly a relative

enjoyed by more than 40 people. The Sadie Hawkins potluck and dance

of Edgar Allen Poe.

in March also had a large turnout with line dancing as part of the eve-

Our trail run took us down to North McCarran Boulevard and east on

ning’s activities (thank you to Robin Reese for leading the line!). Also, a

King’s Row. The entrance was difficult to find and was located between

very big thank you to our social committee consisting of Anne Mahony

two homes in the backcountry there. There are many different roads to

and Donna Landeros for all of their hard work.

take in this area and our lead 4 Wheeler, Don Gerbi, did a great job of

As the ski season winds down, the club is already preparing for a host

using Google Earth to print out maps to follow. The roads were rough

of summer activities including tennis, golf, kayaking and some sailing on

and had some very deep ravines along and across them, which required

Lake Tahoe. Please take time to check our club website at tdskier.com for

precise driving to successfully navigate.

additional fun events.

It took about an hour and a half to make it to the top of Peavine Peak and to our lunch spot overlooking Reno and the mountains to the west. We enjoyed the scenery and the company of our club members during our lunch break. We then headed down a different road, Hawks Meadow Trail, to get back down. Like the road heading up, it had deep ruts and a place where an old dried out tree had fallen across the trail. Thankfully,

Spring Cleaning! Smart way to buy, easy safe way to sell

one of our 4 Wheelers had a chainsaw and made short work of the tree. There was also an area where there had been a landslide that caused some concern. We walked it first and found that several other vehicles had successfully made it across, so we ventured on with no problem. It was a fun day of four wheeling followed by dinner out in Truckee. We hope you will decide to join us for some four wheeling fun in the

At Consign Furniture and Consign Appliance we take care of everything! From pickup, pricing and advertising to selling! Whether you’re looking to sell or buy, call or visit our 36,000 square foot showroom today!

775.824.0222 Consign Furniture

The 4 Wheelers journey up to Peavine Peak. Photo by Bill

Ratcliff.

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tahoedonner.com |

DINING OPTIONS The Lodge Restaurant & Pub 12850 Northwoods Blvd. 530-587-9455 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge

HOURS: Open daily from 5 - 9 p.m. CLOSURE NOTICE: Between April 20 and May 3, The Lodge will be closed for renovations. Pizza on the Hill will be open daily during this time frame to accommodate diners.

Enjoy artisan-crafted cuisine and spirits in the heart of Tahoe Donner.

Burger and Beer Month* From April 1 through April 19, stop by The Lodge to try our Burger and Beer special for

$13. This year, we are featuring beers from Deschutes Brewery; selections include Mirror

WildER Wednesdays* Happy Hour specials wildly last all night

Pond Pale Ale, Chainbreaker White IPA, or

long in the entire restaurant and Pub. Enjoy

Red Chair Nitro draft. BONUS: Each indi-

food and drink specials, plus 25 percent off

vidual who orders a burger will also enter a

shared plates, soups and salads. Offer may not

drawing to win some great prizes. Drawing to

be combined with any other coupon or promo-

be held and winners to be contacted after April

tion. With The Lodge renovations, head over

19. See page 4 for more details.

to Pizza on the Hill and enjoy their version of

Easter Brunch – Sunday, April 5 The Lodge Restaurant & Pub will host a delicious all-you-can-eat brunch buffet on Sunday, April 5 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Easter

WildER Wednesdays on April 22 and April 29 to score happy hour all night long!

No Corkage Tuesdays* Bring in a special bottle of wine from home

brunch is $39 for adults, including a compli-

to savor in the dining room and we’ll waive

mentary glass of champagne or a mimosa, and

the corkage fee on Tuesdays. With The Lodge

$16 for kids. The Easter Bunny will pay us a

renovations, head over to Pizza on the Hill and

visit and there will be games, crafts and more

enjoy No Corkage Tuesdays on April 21 and

for kids 12 and under. See page 10 for Easter

April 28.

Egg Hunt details. Reservations are strongly recommended. Preview the menu at tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/menu/.

Happy Hour Daily through April 19* Take advantage of Happy Hour at The Lodge Pub — now daily from 5 – 6: 30 p.m. Enjoy drink specials and 25 percent off shared

Looking Ahead Cinco de Mayo Party – Tuesday, May 5 Join us to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and enjoy these wonderful Mexican specials: • Mexican food specials

plates, soups and salads in the Pub. Happy

• $5 margaritas

Hour cannot be combined with any other

• $3 Corona beers

promotion or coupon.

• Happy Hour all night in entire restaurant

*The specials indicated are not valid between April 20 and May 3 as The Lodge will be closed for renovations. Promotions cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon. or pepperoni pizza only; limit six pizzas per group; take it to-go or dine-in.

Pizza on the Hill 11509 Northwoods Blvd 530-582-9669 tahoedonner.com/pizza-on-the-hill

HOURS: Open Thursday - Monday for dinner, 5 - 8:30 p.m. EXTENDED HOURS: April 16 through May 4, Pizza on the Hill will be open daily for dinner as The Lodge Restaurant & Pub undergoes renovations.

Be sure to ask about our daily specialty pizzas! $10 Pizza Sundays* It’s pizza for just $10! Grab this deal every Sunday at Pizza on the Hill. Valid for cheese

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

3 for 2 Mondays* It’s 3 for 2 Mondays all month long! Order any three pizzas and you’ll only pay for two! All pizza combinations included. Complimentary pizza must be of equal or lesser value and cannot be used with any other coupon or offer.

Thursday Night Trivia It’s time to test your smarts! Trivia lovers— this is your chance to win big! Don’t miss our Trivia Night at Pizza on the Hill. See page 10 for details.

Friday Family Movie Night Enjoy a movie on our big screen for FREE. See page 10 for details.

Happy Hour* Quench your thirst with $3 Coors Light, $4 seasonal draft beers and $4 house cabernet or chardonnay by the glass; plus, enjoy half-price wings and chili cheese fries for just $4. Offered from 5 - 6 p.m., Thursday-Monday.

Extra Specials: With The Lodge Restaurant & Pub closed for renovations between April 16 and May 4, stop by Pizza on the Hill for our version of WildER Wednesdays on April 22 and April 29 to enjoy happy hour specials all night long. Bring in your own bottle of wine for No Corkage Tuesdays on April 21 and April 28 and we’ll waive the corkage fee.

TAHOE DONNER AWARDED “BEST OF WEDDINGS” 2015 With wedding season fast approaching, Tahoe Donner is pleased to receive a Best of Weddings 2015 award by The Knot, a multi-media company headquartered in New York City, N.Y. that publishes content for couples planning weddings. This award is presented to the highest-rated wedding venues and professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot. The Knot is well-known in the wedding industry for highlighting the best wedding vendors, deals, gowns, photographers and more to their soon-to-be brides and grooms. In the announcement letter addressed to Tahoe Donner, Knot spokesperson Elise Kneram said, “It is with great pleasure that I pass along my congratulations on being chosen as one of ‘The Best of The Knot’ winners for 2015… You are considered the best of the best in the Sacramento/Lake Tahoe/Reno wedding market by our

“Every wedding is planned and executed with the utmost care, headed by Event Manager Jeff Jack and his banquet team,” said Jeanne

brides!” To determine the winners, The Knot assessed a sample of almost one million reviews across the various vendor categories from brides and

Kirschner, Tahoe Donner’s group sales coordinator. “I feel extremely confident every

grooms in 2014. “This year the competition was the hardest it has ever been — only the top two percent of vendors across the country earned this honor,” said Kneram. “The Knot’s Best of Weddings award is a top honor in the wedding industry and couples recognize the elite status of selected vendors.”

Above, Jeanne Kirschner, group sales coordinator and Jeff Jack, event manager, show off The Knot award.

time I book a wedding because I know it will bring joy to our brides and grooms. Both the front of the house and back of the house work extremely hard to make sure this is the end result. It’s really nice to be recognized by The Knot.”

skewed by extremes. To date, The Lodge Restaurant & Pub has been reviewed nearly 450 times and maintains a respected, overall rating of 4.7 out of 5.0 stars. Tahoe Donner’s Food and Beverage Director Mike Peters says his staff strives for excellence in everything they do,

LODGE WINS DINER’S CHOICE AWARD For the second consecutive year, The Lodge Restaurant & Pub was recognized by Open Table, an online restaurant reservation service, as a 2015 Diners’ Choice winner for best service, ambience and food. The Diners’ Choice winners are determined by feedback from diners who booked through the OpenTable website. They offer online restaurant reservations for approximately 32,000 restaurants and determine awards based on diner response following said reservations. Feedback is unbiased due to the large volume of responses resulting in ratings that are not

and wants guests to feel like family from the moment they walk in the door. “Our chef takes great pride in our menu and in ensuring every plate is outstanding,” said Peters. “Our front of house staff makes sure that everyone has a comfortable and pleasant dining experience—an experience they will want to repeat for years to come.” “They consistently stay good, year over year in Truckee,” reads one review on Open Table. “Some restaurants shine bright for a while, but fade after a couple of seasons. The Lodge is always good…. best in Truckee!” To book a reservation, visit tahoedonner. com/the-lodge and click “book now” or call 530-587-9455.

Woman Owned Business CARPET • UPHOLSTERY Call for your FREE Estimate

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tahoedonner.com |

FEATURE

REDUCE, REUSE AND RECYCLE BY ANNIE ROSENFELD | DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES AND RISK MANAGEMENT Celebrating April as an oppor-

of initiatives for both Earth Day

importance of operat-

tunity to â&#x20AC;&#x153;go greenâ&#x20AC;? is emphasized

(April 22) and Arbor Day (April

ing with a mindfulness

by many industries with the help

24). Tahoe Donner recognizes the

to reduce waste, reuse items when feasible, and recycle or use recycled products to improve the environment wherever and whenever possible. Over the last six years, Tahoe Donner Association has targeted reducing its waste throughout its business centers. Management has specifically reviewed and made changes to the product put in solid waste dumpsters, taking advantage of specific diversion opportunities like cardboard-and green waste-specific bins. The benefit of this focus is two-fold. First, by appropriately divert-

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

ing the waste, departments have gained in cost reductions, which at busy times can be significant. Additionally, mindful waste disposal has prompted management to be conscientious and creative in leaving no stone unturned when it comes to analyzing operational dynamics and cost controls. Management also works within the internal network to maximize each waste disposal unit, as far as timing and size of units, to

members participate in recycling and green bag landfill reduction programs on a daily basis. The Golf Course was also able to decrease water usage by 30 percent starting in 2012 by installing pressure-reducing valves; the work continues as staff looks toward more efficient irrigation heads and adjustment to watering schedules to maximize reduced water usage and turf growth. Review of all landscaping at the amenities is also on target in order to reduce water usage and move toward more drought-friendly landscaping. Maximizing transportation opportunities is also a major focus of the association. Management works directly with the Town of Truckee to recommend prifill and order waste containers with only what is absolutely needed. Additionally, ordering of consumables is analyzed to avoid and reduce excess waste as well, which in the end reduces not only the shrinkage of each item but also the amount discarded. Tahoe Donner uses their own wells to pump approximately 80 percent of the water used on the golf course and Tahoe Donner

oritization of alternate methods of transportation, including bicycling and shuttling. The Town has prioritized bike path development and has successfully obtained million dollar grants to complete the Legacy Trail to Glenshire as well as a $1.5 million grant for construction of the Trout Creek Trail. When completed, the Trout Creek Trail will be a Class 1 bike path from Northwoods Boulevard near the Lausanne intersection to Bridge Street in downtown

TDPUD OFFERS FREE LEDS WITH RESIDENTIAL ENERGY SURVEY PROGRAM Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) customers who sign up for a free residential energy survey will receive two free Light Emitting Diode (LED) light bulbs as part of the deal. LED technology is growing in popularity in residential and commercial lighting applications. Not only do LEDs save more energy and money than other light bulbs, LEDs provide a softer glow, instead of the stark blue-white color. TDPUD has been helping their commercial customers transition to LEDs and improve their energy efficiency for years. In 2013, TDPUD introduced a $5 per bulb residential electric customer LED rebate; the demand for this program has risen over 300 percent in one year. “The performance of LED light bulbs has really improved and the cost has dropped significantly,” said Trisha Ruby, TDPUD conservation program administrator. “LED bulbs provide a great opportunity for customers to save energy, save money and have a comfortable lighting environment.” To get the free LED light bulbs, TDPUD customers can call the Conservation Department at 530-582-3931 for an appointment which will be scheduled for a certain day and time. Only current TDPUD customers qualify for this program. An energy surveyor will visit the customer’s home and conduct a visual survey. Based on what is needed, the customer will be provided with free energy and water saving products, including installation of up to 24 energy-efficient light bulbs (including the two LEDs) and two showerheads. The survey typically takes 90 minutes from start to finish. The TDPUD Conservation Department, located at 11570 Donner Pass Rd., also has a display of the many shapes, sizes and color hues of LED bulbs for customers to check out. Visit tdpud.org or call 530-582-3931 to learn more. Truckee. Phase 1 of the Trout

will continue the bike path from

Creek Trail, the first section from

its present temporary terminus

Bridge Street up to Euer Valley

to Northwoods Boulevard and is

Road on the Truckee Donner

tentatively scheduled for comple-

Public Utility property, was completed in the fall of 2014. Phase 2

Continued on p. 18

tahoedonner.com |

iNATURALIST: A GREAT APP TO ENRICH YOUR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE BY SEAN CONNELLY | TAHOE DONNER TRAILS MANAGER As the days grow longer and warmer,

can help identify species for other natural-

many of us are swapping our skis for our

ists out there. You can also use the observa-

hiking boots and looking outside for our

tions recorded on the app to explore and

next adventure. A great way to explore and

discover countless species in your neighbor-

learn more about the natural world around

hood or favorite special place.

us is a smartphone app I recently discovered called iNaturalist.

By documenting the various plants and animals that you encounter on your

Have you ever been out on a hike and you

adventures, you not only learn more about

came across a bird, flower or mushroom that

the natural world but you can also assist in

caught your attention but you didn’t know

conservation projects by offering your new-

what it was? iNaturalist can help. By upload-

found data. It’s a great way to learn about

ing a photo of your subject onto the app,

and meet other nature-loving folks in your

other iNaturalist users can then review and

neck of the woods.

identify the species. Conversely, if you have

The iNaturalist website is also great

a strong knowledge of plants or animals you

resource to learn more about what’s out there. There are descriptions of studies being done, documented observations made throughout the world and various guides to study. There is a seemingly endless list of flora and fauna with great photos and descriptions to inspire the naturalist in all of us. So, the next time you’re out and about enjoying the outdoors, give iNaturalist a try. It will certainly make for a richer and more rewarding experience. Editor’s note: Snap some great nature photos in Tahoe Donner? Send your favorites to comdep@tahoedonner.com with a brief description of the location and subject of the

a northern river otter (Lontra canadensis). With Is it a river otter? Marten? Weasel? iNaturalist can help! It’s in streams and ponds. While a somewhat rare its thick water-repellent coat of fur, the river otter is at home beaver ponds—aquatic habitats that create area Truckee in spotted been have ls mamma these , sighting of fish, turtles and crayfish . prime hunting grounds for the otters’ main food sources

photos; with your permission we may share in future issues of Tahoe Donner News!

shuttle was established in 2013

gains on over the last several

chell’s direction, all of Tahoe

and provided by the association at

years. We are especially proud

Donner’s seedlings derive from

no additional cost to the mem-

of the Golf Course Maintenance

trees in the area. The seeds are

bership. Last summer’s Truckee

and Forestry Department efforts

collected and sent to nurseries

management has prioritized

Thursdays ridership totaled 4,439.

toward this endeavor. During

and then returned to the forest

shuttling opportunities for the

Not only was this a well-received

daily golf course maintenance, the

as seedlings. Plantings are done

membership during peak periods

service to the membership, it also

staff removes grass clippings, aer-

twice a year: once in the spring as

of its seasonal operations by offer-

helped reduced the overall traffic

ation plugs, and other green waste

soon as the snow clears and also

ing shuttle services to summer

impact to the downtown area and

from the golf course and composts

in the fall right before it snows.

amenities, such as the Marina, on

simply helped save on fuel.

these materials to be used on the

The new trees are dormant for the

course at a later date and when

winter but then wake up and start

growing replacement grass.

growing in the spring; 4,674 trees

Continued from p. 17 tion in the fall of 2015. The Tahoe Donner board and

peak weekends and the Fourth of

Reusing byproducts of each

July holiday. Additionally, a Tahoe

department’s business is another

Donner Truckee Thursdays

initiative the association has made

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

Under Forester Bill Houdys-

were planted in 2013 and 9,552

trees in 2014 — plus tens of thou-

safe cleaning and disinfectant

sands of trees which were planted

products with low volatile organic

in the past decade. The Tahoe

compounds (VOCs) where appro-

Donner Forestry Department

priate and actively participate in

reduces waste and repurposes

the Town of Truckee and East-

as much as possible. Dead trees

ern Sierra Landfill recycling and

and those thinned on homeown-

waste programs.

ers’ properties to promote forest

Tahoe Donner encourages

THE GREAT PINE NEEDLE DEBATE PRO: Fallen pine needles often serve as an important natural mulch, protecting bare soil from erosion. Fallen pine needles

health are either chipped for

each member to participate in the

should be left in place.

energy regeneration or cut and

many avenues to be good stew-

sold as firewood to Tahoe Donner

ards of the land and environment

CON: Dried, fallen pine needles are one of the most easily ignit-

members for a small fee.

which are offered in the Truckee

In addition, 50 percent of prod-

Tahoe region, including the Town

ucts in Tahoe Donner facilities

of Truckee and Eastern Sierra

and nearly 90 percent of office

Landfill waste programs, Truckee

products are green-related. Tahoe

Donner Public Utilities’ extensive

Donner vehicles converted to

conservation programs (see side-

using 100-percent biodegradable

bar for information on TDPUD’s

hydraulic oils at no additional cost

Residential Energy Survey

and the association is ahead of

Program), Truckee River Water-

schedule in replacing big emis-

shed Council’s River Friendly

sion, Tier 1 vehicles. Lower level

Landscaping program, and more.

focuses include goals of reducing

Links to these programs may be

idling vehicles to zero percent to

found online at tahoedonner.com/

improve environmental concerns

go-green.

and gas usage, as well as practices

We are always open to sugges-

such as maintaining thermostats

tions for improved conservation

at 68 degrees where appropri-

efforts within Tahoe Donner.

ate, replacing all light bulbs with

Don’t hesitate to share your

fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, and recy-

thoughts with me at

cling and reusing printer paper.

arosenfeld@tahoedonner.com.

Facilities utilize environmentally-

able materials in Tahoe’s forests. Fallen pine needles should be removed.

MAINTAIN A 1"– 2" LAYER OF NEEDLES 10' – 30'

REMOVE ALL DEAD NEEDLES WITHIN 10'

COMPROMISE: In areas where dead pine needles are present, but are not covering bare soil, remove them. This includes dead needles that are still attached to trees; draped on live plants; lying on the roof or deck; covering lawn and mulches; or lying on hard surfaces, such as sidewalks, patios, and driveways. In areas where fallen needles are covering bare soil, use the following recommendations. Within 10 feet of the house and deck, remove all dead pine needles. For the area that lies 10 feet to at least 30 feet from the house and deck, maintain pine needles at a depth of 1 to 2 inches. Take care to avoid disturbing the “duff layer” if present, the dark area at the ground surface where needles are decomposing.

PINE NEEDLE LITTER 1"– 2" DUFF LAYER MINERAL SOIL For more information about pine needle management Seedlings grown from seeds collected in Tahoe Donner, as opposed to those derived from non-native species, improve success rate and support native species.

in Tahoe Donner and the Lake Tahoe Basin, visit tahoedonner.com/forestry/defensible-space, where you may view a PDF file of the California state guidelines for defensible space. You may also contact your conservation district office in California at 530-543-1501.

tahoedonner.com |

GET A GRIP… A NEW ONE, THAT IS! BY ROB WEIZER | TAHOE DONNER HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL The weather is perfect, the course is getting green and you’ve begun to dust off the clubs from their winter hibernation. You are now ready to improve upon last year’s performance, right? Well, before you take that first lesson, hit the range or tackle the course, let’s be sure you have positioned yourself for the best chance at success. And one area of preparedness, the most overlooked one of all, is making sure your clubs are ready too. Wait, what? That’s right. Clubs have to be ready. Not only should the lie angles and lofts be checked, the grooves cleaned and the shafts inspected for bends or cracks, but pay attention to perhaps the most important item—the one area where you physically connect with the golf club: the grips. During the course of a year, most tour pros will have

the role of the grip. The grip is one of the most important components in golf and the only part of the club that you actually touch. Grips are made of materials that age and wear with use and over time. Ozone, heat, dirt and oils from your hands all age your grips and cause the

their clubs re-gripped three to four times. Obviously,

natural degradation of the grip. The traction that a fresh grip provides

most amateurs don’t need to go that far, but for most

allows you to hold the club lightly without the subconscious fear of

players, it is highly recommended to consider it at least

losing the club during your swing. This relaxed state promotes proper

once a year.

swing mechanics and wrist action, while a worn grip causes you to

The importance of the proper feel when gripping the club cannot be overstated, nor can the importance of

grasp the club tighter, causing arm and wrist tension that inhibits proper swing mechanics and leads to a loss of power and control. A

2015 TITLEIST PROMOTION GET ONE DOZEN FREE; OFFER EXPIRES APRIL 12 For a limited time, get one dozen free personalized golf balls when you order three dozen custom imprint Titleist Pro V or Pro V1x golf balls. Customize with your name, choose your colors, and hit the course with a little bit of extra swagger with your personalized golf balls. See below for details, but hurry, offer ends April 12! Option 1 ($126): One dozen golf balls free with the purchase of three dozen golf balls. Choose ProV1 (black and gold box) or ProV1x (black and red box). • Personalize with your name (real name, nickname...)

• Play Number: low numbers (1-4); high numbers (5-8) or all same play number 1-9 only

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• Personalization and color: green, red, black, blue or pink; up to three lines of text at 17 characters per line

Orders may be placed now; promotion expires on April 12. Send orders to Head Golf Pro Rob Weizer at rweizer@tahoedonner.com.

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

fresh set of grips is an inexpensive and fast way to bring a noticeable change to your game. By themselves, fresh grips can only allow you to approach your potential as a golfer. They can’t overcome a bad swing, or

SECURE YOPUACRE ISSLIPMITOEDT. . S

poor alignment, or any of the other faults that bedevil even the best golfers. But a national survey of golfers showed that

WOODWARDTAHOE.COM

66 percent of those who had clubs re-gripped showed an average drop of three to four strokes per round! Performance, comfort and confidence are all critical to your score, and you are sacrificing all three elements when you arrive at the course without the proper preparation. As we all know,

your round can be memorable for good reasons and bad reasons; all it takes is one shot. Why risk having that one shot (or all your shots) affected by a piece of equipment that could be so easy to correct? The Tahoe Donner Golf pro shop staff endorses the use of Golf Pride golf grips. No matter what type of player you are, or want to become, they are the number one golf grip on all professional tours. While there isn’t one grip that is right for all golfers, and grip selection varies widely with individual needs and preferences, a good starting point in selecting grips is to explore the Golf Pride Grip Selector. You can access this on their website at golfpride.com/fit. Once you’ve narrowed your choices, check out the grip selection at the Tahoe Donner Golf pro shop — we carry a wide variety of styles and sizes. If we have the grip in stock, most repairs will be done by the next day. If it’s a special order, then please allow two to three additional days for arrival and installation. The membership discount will apply for all in-stock and custom order grips. Please contact Head Golf Professional Rob Weizer for more information at 530-587-9441 or via e-mail at rweizer@tahoedonner.com. tahoedonner.com |

FEATURE

Donner Party Mountain Runners CELEBRATING ONE YEAR OF ADVENTURES BY ASHLEY QUADROS One year and a cloud of dust.

are Tahoe Donner residents.

Last month marked the one-year anniver-

The concept of starting this club came about

sary of the Donner Party Mountain Runners

in early 2014 when a few friends tossed around

group. Their unique club name is attention-

the idea in a local Truckee bar. In February

getting and was chosen as a way of paying

2014, that vision became closer to reality when

tribute to the 87 Donner Party emigrants

15 runners met to discuss the idea formally,

who faced unfathomable hardship, illness

including the idea to create it as a not-for-

and death during their voyage to California.

profit organization with a board of directors.

Inspired by those who lost their lives and

“We all had different reasons for exploring

Top: Pelster trail running near Castle Crags State Park near Mount Shasta. Above: Members of the club meet for an early morning run.

the 48 souls who survived, the club fol-

the idea of a running club, but I was motivated

lows in the footsteps of the pioneer atop the

by the idea of an organization that could pro-

monument at Donner Memorial State Park by

vide a credible representation for runners in

using its motto, “UNAFRAID.” With a goal

the Truckee-Tahoe area,” explained founding

has come to fruition this year, but it’s a far cry

to inform and inspire mountain runners in

member and Tahoe Donner homeowner of 15

from a typical 26.2-mile marathon. The Don-

Truckee-Tahoe, the club is an all-volunteer,

years, Helen Pelster. “I wanted to see an ultra-

ner Party Mountain Runners have launched

non-profit organization and an active member

marathon produced here. I wanted to share

the inaugural Castle Peak 100K run and it will

of the Road Runners Club of America.

my passion and to help others find joy running

travel right through Tahoe Donner on Aug. 29

It has 133 founding members who pledged

on our beautiful mountain trails.”

of this year—that’s over 62 miles of running.

their support last year, several of whom

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

An ultramarathon, as Pelster envisioned,

“This spectacular and demanding point-to-

point mountain course was designed by our club president, Peter Fain,” said Pelster, who acts as the club’s secretary on their board of directors. “We are grateful to have the support of five different land jurisdictions, including Tahoe Donner Association,” noted Pelster. Runners will enter Tahoe Donner from Carpenter Valley near the Moondance Hut; the course continues past Hawks Peak and over to Drifter Hut and then descends on the Donner Lake Rim Trail before climbing to Castle Peak and Basin Peak. “This is sure to be an exciting and inspiring event that will pass right through our own beautiful Tahoe Donner trails,” she added. In addition to running through Tahoe Don-

Right: The scenery provides plenty of inspiration to keep running. Below: Members of the club aren’t deterred by a little snow. Left, the group heads out on snowshoes, led by Tahoe Donner resident and active club member Sharon Fong. Right, Pelster with running club members pause to snap a photo.

ner, the Donner Party Mountain Runners reg-

first time most of the group had been in that

Eastern Perimeter trail. I then climb Hawks

ularly explore the entire Truckee-Tahoe area,

area. “Once you have been up on that ridge, it

Peak on any one of the beautiful trails though

offering several organized runs per week in

will catch your eyes and imagination forever-

the Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area.

the summer season. “Weekly group runs will

more,” she said earnestly. “Whether you are

Next I pass by the Drifter Hut and connect

resume in May, including the Monday Trail

driving down Northwoods Boulevard or hik-

with the Donner Lake Rim Trail. I head back

Teaser series and a new Wednesday morn-

ing to the top of Hawks Peak, you will see that

to the Teton Way trailhead and find my way

ing run in the Waddle Ranch Preserve,” said

place and your heart will smile.”

down the power line to my back door. It’s my

Pelster. “We are also excited to offer weekend

Every run the group organizes offers a

runs throughout the summer. We really want

different chance to smile; it is part of the

to connect with our members who are not able

reason members enjoy exploring new trails

and her fellow Donner Party Mountain Run-

to spend their weekdays here.”

with fellow runners who share their passion.

ners enjoy their sport, she hasn’t always been

Pelster created their Monday Trail Teaser

They actively seek to uncover spectacular

a runner. She only started running about eight

series as a way to introduce runners to trails

views, hidden paths and quiet solitude, all

years ago, and hearing the siren call of the

they may not otherwise be familiar with. In

while pushing their physical boundaries to

ultramarathon, went on to tackle two chal-

2014, the club led 19 different trail runs, each

the limits. But most of all, they enjoy creating

lenging 100-mile races. Pelster acknowledged

approximately four miles in length. In the

memories.

that a 100-mile race isn’t solely running and

off-season, some of the group members still

“My favorite Tahoe Donner run is one that

idea of a perfect day in the neighborhood!” Interestingly enough, as much as Pelster

“involves a lot of uphill hiking and then run-

run, but without a specific schedule. “Some

I call the ‘Perimeter Tour,’” explained Pelster.

ning the downhills and flats.” These runs took

spontaneity allows us to take advantage of

“I leave from my front door and head over to

her approximately 28 hours to complete each

whatever conditions Mother Nature offers

the Nature Loop. From there, I connect to the

and included no sleep. Starting as a non-run-

up—be it skiing, snowshoe running, trail running or a good-old-fashioned pavement run,” said Pelster. “There really are no bad days to play in the mountains!” And this group plays a lot. Of all of their runs to date, Pelster fondly recalls one in particular. “The most rewarding experience for me so far was leading a club run on the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) route between Boreal and Squaw Valley. My husband helped by shuttling us all between the trailheads. Another member, who has been, active in the club since that first meeting at our house, assisted by leading the front of the pack.” According to Pelster, it was a gorgeous bluebird day after the first snowfall, and it was the

tahoedonner.com |

Pelster sporting the club jersey on a trail run in Spain.

ner and transforming to one who competes in races that take over a day to finish, Pelster is a great example of how those who may have an interest in running can take their first step— just get outside and start moving. While the Donner Party Mountain Runners group is geared toward runners who can already run three miles, those interested in getting more involved in running should still consider joining the group in some way. Volunteering provides an opportunity to aid the local community, or, Pelster notes, one can

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consider joining a single run to determine if it’s the right fit. Participation in any scheduled run is free to the public, but a $3 donation to support the club’s longevity and initiatives is recommended. And, for those who decide to become an official member, a yearly membership fee of $35 includes unlimited free group runs, an official Donner Party Mountains Runners hat or beanie, discounts to local businesses, trail

UPCOMING DONNER PARTY MOUNTAIN RUNNERS GROUP EVENTS: Weekend Trail Adventures: • May 30: Local trail adventure • May 31: Family trail work day • June 13: Helen and Sean, Informal half-marathon • June 20 – 21: Castle Peak preview • Sunday, June 21: Castle Peak preview weekend • July 11: Trail adventure • July 25 – 26: Trail adventure • Aug. 1 – 2: Overnight adventure • Aug. 23: Trail work day

Club Events: • May 2: Canyons Endurance Runs (aid station) • May 4: Trail Teasers return • May 25: Memorial Day family runs and picnic • Aug. 29: Castle Peak 100k • Sept. 11 – 15: Tahoe 200 (aid station)

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| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

also support the club’s educational series,

north of Truckee on Highway 89. This event is

their Memorial Day family picnic, trail work

free to the public and includes group trail runs

days, and more.

and fun kids’ races. “All are invited to come

“I am honored and humbled to get to work

out and meet fellow locals and Tahoe Donner

and play with so many incredibly talented

members who share our passion of running

individuals,” said Pelster. “I’m very proud of

and the great outdoors,” said Pelster.

the foundation that we’ve built in one short

To learn more about Donner Party Mountain

year. It won’t surprise me to see Truckee

Runners, visit their website at donnerparty-

North Tahoe region blossom into a full-blown

mountainrunners.com. Volunteers are also still

trail running destination.” The Donner Party

needed to help orchestrate the club’s Castle Peak

Mountain Runners will be celebrating their

100K run. Interested parties can email Lesley

one year anniversary at their Memorial Day

Dellamonica at volunteers@donnerpartymoun-

family picnic this year on May 25 at the Don-

tainrunners.com for more information on how

ner Picnic Historical Site, located a few miles

to help.

WELLNESS

PUT THE FUN BACK INTO YOUR WORKOUT WITH FUNCTIONAL TRAINING BY KARI CHALSTROM | CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER, FITNESS INSTRUCTOR, AND NUTRITION CONSULTANT What is your sport? Better yet, what is the activity you do for the majority of your day? If you are one of the few lucky ones, maybe you spend your days hiking, running, biking, skiing, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or playing golf or tennis. Now that’s living the Tahoe dream, right? But let’s be real. Yes, we are surrounded by the beauty, the peace and quiet of the mountains, rivers and lakes, and they are all calling us to come out and play. But how many hours a week are you truly spending in your recreation activity versus your day-to-day activities? Are you training for your sport, or for your daily living activities? How about both? Functional training is defined as any type of exercise that has a direct relationship with the daily activities of your life. For me, my days can consist of laundry, keeping up the house, standing in line at Safeway or the post office, teaching a fitness class or client, walking the dog, sending texts, sitting behind the computer, dropping off and picking up kids, shuttling them around town, the occasional game of catch with a baseball, a quick lap around the pump track or skate park while trying to keep up with the kids. Sound familiar to some? If I’m lucky, I get to sneak in that coveted run or mountain bike ride during the week. But for the most part, I’m happy just moving around feeling strong, pain-free and fully functional at any given moment. That is how I approach my functional training program.

So what does that mean? Most functional training exercises stem from rehabilitation exercises. Those who have had an injury know exactly what I’m talking about. They are slower, precisely controlled, “fine tuning” exercises that primarily focus on core function and awareness. Shouldn’t that be something we all do, with every workout, to hopefully avoid the cause and effect of the deconditioned and ill-prepared body? I certainly hope we are all practicing those elements in our training programs.

“Functional training is training with an intention.” Is sitting on a leg press machine pushing 250 pounds functional? Sure, if you are pushing mounds of dirt with your feet against a steel plate while sitting on your rear end all day. Why not instead practice a free standing squat, or lunge, while using your body weight. Doesn’t that make more sense, considering the amount of times a day are you getting up from a seated position, or having to pick something off the floor? Maybe you add an external stimulus to your squat/lunge, like free weights or a suspension device like the TRX. These techniques and tools can add to your load for a bit more challenge. And while you are at it, focus on how you use your core for balance

and optimal control of the exercise. Now that is what brings the “fun” into the functional training. Functional training is training with an intention. That intention is purpose-driven. The primary purpose is to feel stronger, more connected to your body, and to develop a deeper awareness of the movement pattern. I caution people to not overload with excessive weight a sport-specific functional pattern, like a golf swing or the motion of hitting a tennis ball. In other words, I wouldn’t have you hold an overly weighted bar and then have you swing it around with full force. That is a guaranteed trip to the ER and weeks of recovery in physical therapy. Instead, I would have you work on rotational exercises, perhaps using the TRX and your body weight, to develop your awareness, flexibility and core strength in your trunk rotation. While using such a device, you can mimic the motion, using just your body weight, in a safe and controlled manner. To clarify, functional training is beyond isolation and single joint training. It encompasses the whole body, with multijoint movements, and brings multiple muscle groups together to perform the exercise. Sport-specific training is often what triggers us to get to the gym. But functional training is truly training for life. Awareness, core, function, life, fun! That is your new mantra — your motivation. Now get out there and do it!

tahoedonner.com |

COMMUNITY

EDUCATION AND ARTS IN OUR COMMMUNITY BY JANET ZIPSER ZIPKIN | TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND COMMITTEE Last month, Tahoe Donner Giving Fund provided a snapshot of health and human services data based on the recently released Community Report Card — compiled by the Community Collaborative of Tahoe Truckee, a program of Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation — and the good work of our local non-profits. This month, we take a look at how our community’s needs are being met in the areas of education and the arts.

READING TO LEARN There is a pause in the reading and a brief quizzical expression. The head lifts up, the eyes open wide and the smile broadens as the

from low-income families — but that means

TTUSD high school graduation rate, versus

that almost half of our youngsters are not

80 percent statewide. Overall, Tahoe Truckee

experiencing this joy of learning.

elementary to college-aged students outper-

Recognizing that third grade reading profi-

form their peers across California in many

child’s face literally explodes with joy. This is

ciency is an important predictor of academic

areas, yet our English language learners have

a youngster who just has learned something

success and high school graduation, several

lagged behind.

from what he or she has read. This phenome-

local non-profit organizations collaborat-

non of transitioning from “learning to read” to

ing with TTUSD are providing community

below the proficient level in all academic

“reading to learn” opens a world of knowledge

bookshelves, facilitating book distributions

areas has been the goal of the TTUSD and

to satisfy a child’s never-ending curiosity and

and offering literacy programs targeted to low

the community for the past five years. Strate-

sets the stage for future academic success.

income neighborhoods.

gies to meet this goal include hiring English Language Learner Program coordinators,

Typically, this transition occurs at about third grade. But 67 percent of students nationwide — and more than 80 percent of those from low-income families — are not proficient readers. The statistics for Tahoe Truckee Unified School District (TTUSD) are considerably better at 47 percent — with 68 percent of these

Closing the achievement gap for students

GRADUATION Our local educators proudly announce that 84 percent of 2014 TTUSD graduates attend

and working with both staff and parents in areas such as reading proficiency and overall academics.

post-secondary two- or four-year institutions, and the most recent California Department of Education statistics indicate a 90 percent 2013

ENRICHMENT Our community is blessed with a variety

Left to right: Tahoe Truckee Unified School District Trustee Dianna Driller, SuperintendentChief Learning Officer Dr. Rob Leri, Trustee and Board President Kim Szczurek, and Trustee Randy Hill in a recent board meeting. Leri and Szczurek are Tahoe Donner residents.

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

Visual and performing arts are an integral part of our community. Below, a Native American flutist performs during a recent Trails and Vistas, a local Truckee event celebrating arts in nature.

of local non-profit organizations that offer enrichment programs for kids. Some efforts celebrate our unique surroundings with offerings in conservation-oriented environmental education, winter sports training, history and interpretation of our natural resources and avalanche safety information. Other programs work to prepare under-resourced students for the future, provide culinary education, bring arts and artists to the schools, or enhance life and work skills.

ARTS AND CULTURE Non-profit organizations extend the pleasure of visual and performance arts beyond the school grounds both for children and adults in our community. Our cultural and artistic passions are stimulated through dance, drama, music, literature and history in ways that are unique to our area—interpretive dance in the forest, drama on the beach, music under the stars. Have you seen the new artistic bike racks around town? Creativity expressed through installations, painting, sculpture, drawing and writing enriches our lives and forms an identity for our community. Whether we love it or not, public art inspires our own creative thinking as we ask ourselves, “What is the artist trying to say?”

SUPPORT The key to maintaining this breadth and depth of educational and

Looking Ahead to a Beautiful Summer Setting

artistic opportunity is to support the non-profit organizations that contribute so much to the welfare of our community. Collectively, Tahoe Donner members’ tax-deductible gifts to the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund (TDGF) will provide the funds for these organizations’ much-needed grants. Find out how you can contribute: tahoedonner.com/giving-fund. [ NEW FOR 2015 ]

With appreciation to the following for providing insights and facts for this article: • Alison Schwedner, Director of The Community Collaborative of Tahoe Truckee • Laura Brown, Executive Director, Excellence in Education Foundation • Carole Sesko, Visual Artist and Truckee Art Advocate

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tahoedonner.com |

BULLETIN BOARD

COVENANTS 101 The Tahoe Donner Association has a Covenants Committee comprised of volunteer members. Five members and two alternate members are tasked by the board of directors with hearing and deciding alleged violations of the covenants rules as outlined in the governing documents. The covenants rules (C&Rs) are the rules for the neighborhood. They govern what you can, cannot, or must do with respect to your home. The objective of the C&Rs, in conjunction with the governing documents, is to preserve, protect and enhance neighborhood property values. The committee’s goal is compliance and mitigation of issues when violations occur. Enhanced enforcement measures through a committee hearing do occur when necessary in order to achieve the goal of the committee to enforce the rules and maintain a minimum standard in the homeowners association. However, committee and staff members make every effort to establish a working relationship with each owner when investigating a possible violation to resolve the matter and to prevent repeat occurrences. Tahoe Donner Association covenants rules fall into two broad categories: “General Common Area and Amenity Rules” and “Private Property Rules.” As mentioned, the committee may levy fines and abridge members’ amenity usage rights if it is found that a provision has been violated. The board of directors acts as the appeals authority for all committee decisions. A broad

summary of the covenants rules follows (note that many have limitations or exceptions). A complete listing of the association’s governing documents and covenants rules, including enforcement procedures, may be found on the Tahoe Donner website at tahoedonner.com/covenants/. GENERAL COMMON AREA AND AMENITY RULES: In general, the

following is prohibited on common areas, including amenities and parking lots: • Camping • Off-road vehicle use • Skating/skateboarding • Vegetation removal • After hours use • Dumping of refuse • Dumping of ashen materials • Fires and fireworks • Firearms use; archery use • Hunting • Fishing on golf course grounds • After hours parking • Off-pavement parking • Loose animals • Noxious activities PRIVATE PROPERTY RULES: In

general, the following is prohibited on private lots: • Camping • Living in garage • Living in recreational vehicles • Noxious activities • Keeping animals for commercial purposes • Business activities which have exterior advertising, increased traffic or parking, visible storage of goods, excessive noise or deliveries • Garbage accumulation • Outside storage, including non-

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

recreational trailers, slide-in campers or cab-over campers not mounted on a vehicle • Vegetation removal without a permit from the TDA Forestry Department • Machinery and equipment larger than a lawn and garden tractor • Outside vehicle repair • Inoperative vehicles • Large commercial vehicles • Commercial trailers • Parking on unimproved lots • Parking on unsurfaced portion of an improved lot • No more than one recreational trailer (travel trailer, boat trailer, snowmobile trailer, personal watercraft trailer, etc.), motorhome, or slide-in camper mounted on a vehicle may be parked on a lot Owners of lots are responsible to maintain their lots in a fire safe condition and to maintain their lots in a manner conducive to

forest health. The most common provisions of the covenants rules that are violated are garbage spills, parking on un-surfaced portions of an improved lot, outside storage, noxious activity, and unpermitted tree removal. Figure 1 shows twelve 2014 violations that went before the Covenants Committee. If you, your tenants and guests are unfamiliar with any of the above provisions, please take the time to review the covenants rules available on the Tahoe Donner website or stop by the Architectural Standards Office if you have any questions. Suspected violations of the provisions can be reported to the compliance inspector in the Architectural Standards Office at 530-587-9406 or by email at compliance@tahoedonner.com. It is not necessary to give your name when filing a complaint.

Unit

Covenants Violations

Fine Imposed

Tree removal without a permit

$7,000

Snowmobile storage issue

$200

Parking off pavement

$200

Noxious activity

$200

Storage issue

$3,400

Tree removal without a permit

$3,000

Failure to complete defensible space work

$1,000

Fire safety

$1,000

Fire safety

$1,000

Tree removal without a permit

$2,500

Snowmobile storage issue

$200

Noxious activity

$400

Figure 1: 2014 violations heard by the Covenants Committee

BULLETIN BOARD

performing some minor excavations along Northwoods Boulevard associated with the district’s internal communication network. The pipeline project will be performed by a private contractor selected by the district through a public bidding process. The work will start in May and should be completed in September of this year. The district will work Above, the locations are noted for the pipeline project for summer 2015. You may download this map online at tahoedonner.com/tdpud-pipeline.

diligently to minimize any inconvenience and disruption this construction may cause. It is important to note that TDPUD’s water

TDPUD PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION IN TAHOE DONNER FOR SUMMER 2015 In 1927, the Truckee Donner Public Util-

A properly installed water pipeline should

production is down over 30 percent since 2006 and fixing leaks is a major contributor to this success. The map above may be downloaded at tahoedonner.com/tdpud-pipeline. Any ques-

ity District (TDPUD) was formed to provide

last between 50 and 75 years. However, the

tions regarding this project should be directed

electrical service to the Truckee area. In 1935,

Tahoe Donner water system began leaking

to the TDPUD’s Water System Engineer, Neil

TDPUD began providing water service with

almost immediately and has gotten worse

Kaufman at 530-582-3950 or neilkaufman@

the purchase of the McGlashen water system.

over time. Beginning in 1985, the District has

tdpud.org, or to TDPUD’s Public Information

TDPUD’s water system has expanded over the

been actively installing replacement pipe-

Officer, Steven Poncelet at 530-582-3951 or

years with the construction of new subdivi-

lines. About 68 miles of water pipeline exists

stevenponcelet@tdpud.org.

sions throughout Truckee.

throughout the Tahoe Donner subdivision. To

The water system in Tahoe Donner was installed in the early 1970s when the subdivision was originally constructed. Unfortu-

date, about 35 miles of pipeline have needed to be replaced. TDPUD plans to replace about 4,900 feet

nately, the construction practices employed by

of pipeline at three separate locations along

the companies performing the water pipeline

Northwoods Boulevard during the summer of

installation were not proper. As a result, the

2015. The locations the work will take place

pipelines experienced accelerated deteriora-

this year are shown on the above map.

tion, with numerous leaks as the result. Leaks not only waste water, they also waste the electricity needed to pump water up to Tahoe Donner.

Chase painting

This work has been coordinated with a Town of Truckee project to resurface Northwoods Boulevard. In addition to the pipeline replacement work, the TDPUD will also be

HOMES ON THE RISE The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed the following plans in February 2014: Unit/Lot

Street Address

Square Feet

Project

06/063

14548 Alder Creek Road

1902

House

tahoedonner.com |

TAHOE DONNERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S I-DID-A-RUN BENEFITS HUMANE SOCIETY OF TRUCKEE-TAHOE As part of North Lake Tahoeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SnowFest 2015, the 11th annual I-Did-A-Run event took place on March 8 at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area. Dogs of all shapes and sizes pulled out all the stops to compete in this on-snow dog pull race with proceeds from raffle sales raising $2,775 for the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe. This is an increase of $665 from the preceding year. Dogs raced against the clock pulling covered wagon sleds over a snow-covered course and prizes were awarded to the speediest finishers among four weight divisions. In total, 42 dogs raced for the title. The overall winner was Nikolai, owned by Hannah Gray of Dayton, Nevada. Of interest, Nikolai competed as a puppy last year in division 1 and also won that title. To see all race results, visit tahoedonner.com/i-did-a-run-race-results/. Tahoe Donner would like to congratulate all the winners and thank everyone who participated in the 11th annual I-Did-A-Run to support and benefit the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe. Photos are courtesy of Hal Bobrow.

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS BOARD MEETING RECAP FEBRUARY 28, 2015 Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0 • 2015 director election procedures • TechnoGym elliptical equipment (Replacement Reserve Funds) • TDGF Committee alternate resignation (Woodward) • TDGF Committee alternate resignation (Murray) • 2015 golf rates Town of Truckee Yard Waste Curbside Collection Program: Approved 5-0 As provided for in Civil Code §4930(d), by a unanimous vote of the members present, the board approved adding this item to the agenda for action, finding that that there was a need to take immediate action and that the need for action came to the attention of the board after the agenda was properly posted and distributed. Town of Truckee Yard Waste Curbside Collection Program Survey: Approved 5-0 Presently, residents can place four green bags per week curbside for yard waste collection. The Town of Truckee and Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal are considering recommending changing the program to the use of 96-gallon rolling carts instead of the green bags for Tahoe Donner. The board approved sending a letter to the Truckee Town Council expressing opposition to this proposed new program. May 23, 2015 Board Meeting: Approved 5-0 The board approved changing the May 23, 2015 board meeting to May 30, 2015.

Policy Resolution 2015-2 Maintenance of Tahoe Donner Association’s Income Tax Exempt Status: Approved 5-0 The board approved policy resolution 2015-2 maintenance of Tahoe Donner Association’s income tax exempt status. Director of Finance and Accounting Report: Approved 5-0 The board approved the unaudited preliminary December 2014 and January 2015 financials. Paperless Board Meetings: Consensus By consensus, the board directed staff to further explore the utilization of a digital board portal solution for board meeting materials. Snowmaking Equipment at Downhill Ski: No Action The board received an update on the results on the February 20 Town Hall meeting held to obtain member input on this proposed project. Strategic Plan Goals: No Action The board discussed the association’s strategic plan and strategic goals for 2015-2020. Executive Session: No Action In Executive Session, the board discussed legal and contract matters as well as cost- recovery measures. These summaries are intended for general information purposes only. The minutes are available at tahoedonner.com, upon request in the General Manager’s office, or by calling 530-587-9431. A copy of the minutes and current agenda are posted outside the Member Services Office in Northwoods Clubhouse.

tahoedonner.com |

GREECE

Cha rles and Christine Segalas the enjoying the view overlooking the rooftops and the Aegean Sea on . isla nd of Monemvasia, Greece

BARBADOS

Behzad, Karen, Ramin and Arjan Behrooz at North Point, the northerly most tip of Barbados where the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea meet.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Kyle, Kelly, Ryan and Erik Sandstrom on the dock in front of the Anegada Reef Hotel, Anegada Island, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean.

RUSSIA

t of the Dave and Bet ty Pinsky in fron w, Russia Kremlin, in Red Square, Mosco

Email your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where in the Worldâ&#x20AC;? photos to: comdep@tahoedonner.com. Please submit only .jpeg files of 300 dpi or higher for printing. Photos must include a copy of TD News. Please list the names of everyone in the picture, where and when it was taken, and a short description of your captured experience. Note: please be patient; it could take up to six months to see your photo published due to a large number of submissions.

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

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tahoedonner.com |

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| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

11836 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 15947 South Shore Drive, Truckee 8912 Highway 89, Blairsden-Graeagle

530.587.7444

DicksonTruckee.com