TAHOE DONNER NEWS
BACKYARD EDEN
IDENTIFY LOCAL FLORA + FAUNA WITH REFERENCE GUIDES 08
TROUT CREEK A HISTORY OF MISUSE, MODIFICATION + RESTORATION 14
CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH DAILY ACTS 04
FIRE SAFETY BEGINS AT HOME 24 APRIL 2024
TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 1 04 14 08 THE REPORT: ASSOCIATION UPDATES 02 Message From the General Manager 12 2024 Board of Directors Election Information + Key Dates 24 Tahoe Donner Giving Fund: 2023 Giving Report 28 Briefs 30 Board Meeting Recaps THE BUZZ: EVENTS, DINING+ UPDATES 03 Quick Calendar 16 Amenity Updates, Programs + Events 18 Club Updates 20 Dining Hours + Specials 24 Community Fire Safety Begins at Home 32 Where in the World is Tahoe Donner News CELEBRATE EARTH DAY Daily Acts to Practice Sustainability All Year Long BACKYARD EDEN Learn to Spot and Identify Flora and Fauna with Tahoe Donner Reference Guides TROUT CREEK A History of Misuse, Modification and Restoration of a Local Tributary FEATURES INSIDE ON THE COVER: Steve Irvine submitted this terrific, spring image for Tahoe Donner’s 2022 Photo Contest, taking home first prize in the “Animals + Wildlife” category. Tahoe Donner News is created largely in-house and is printed on certified recycled paper stock using soy-based inks. TRUCKEE-DONNER HISTORICAL SOCIETY
EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION TEAM
Lindsay Hogan Drew Deurlington
Carlynne Fajkos Camy Bretin
Cynthia Cendreda Jesus Antonio Vazquez
SENIOR MANAGEMENT
Annie Rosenfeld | General Manager arosenfeld@tahoedonner.com
Miah Cottrell | Director of Information Technology mcottrell@tahoedonner.com
John Groom | Director of Land Management + Open Space jgroom@tahoedonner.com
Lindsay Hogan | Director of Communications + Member Relations lhogan@tahoedonner.com
Jon Mitchell | Director of Capital Projects + Facilities jmitchell@tahoedonner.com
Miguel Sloane | Director of Operations msloane@tahoedonner.com
Steve Turner | Director of Food + Beverage sturner@tahoedonner.com
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President | Don Koenes dkoenes@tahoedonner.com
Vice President | Benjamin Levine blevine@tahoedonner.com
Treasurer | Steve Mahoney smahoney@tahoedonner.com
Secretary | Courtney Murrell cmurrell@tahoedonner.com
Director | Jim Roth jroth@tahoedonner.com
POSTMASTER: Periodical postage paid at Truckee, California and additional mailing offices. Send address changes to Tahoe Donner News, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161; (530) 587-9400, Fax (530) 579-3224
EMAIL: comdep@tahoedonner.com
ADVERTISING SALES: CC Media + Publishing is the exclusive advertising representative: (775) 742-9850 | laura@ccmpublishing.com
MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Dear members,
With great enthusiasm, I pen my first letter as your general manager. I’ve served the organization in various capacities over the last 20 years, and my passion for the community is stronger than ever. Below are a few of my priorities that shape my leadership approach at Tahoe Donner:
Community + Relationship Building
Through my history with Tahoe Donner, I’m proud to know so many of you by name and have watched your households evolve over the last 20 years. I’ve worked hard to create a reputation for inclusivity and deep respect for all people and their opinions. I feel collaboration is key, and I take a genuine approach to developing relationships that last even when we may not agree. Helping this community unify is paramount to me.
Enjoying the Gem of TD
I’ve lived in Tahoe Donner (although I live in a different Truckee HOA now). My son learned to volunteer planting trees and doing trail cleanup, swim, ski and mountain bike here, as well as discover his favorite eats at our F&B venues. This is where my family and I continue to recreate, and I will continue meeting members where they play throughout the association. I hope to see many of you at the countless events and activities this year!
What the Membership Can Expect of Me
the community feel that makes the community so special.
• I will be visible and enjoy what TD has to offer. I embody the mountain lifestyle and encourage others to also. Passion for nature and outdoor pursuits is one thing we all share.
• My priority is fiscal responsibility and optimizing assessment dollars for the benefit of members.
• I will be positive and engaged in partnerships with the committees, board and external entities.
• I am committed to supporting the TD team in delivering great programs and services. We are working to create enrichment opportunities, increase member value and continue to build and unify the community.
• I will continue to be a steward of our natural resources and assets.
• I prioritize fire defensibility enhancement through the budget and will leverage funding through public agencies.
• I am actively involved in community emergency preparedness and champion “readiness is the best plan.”
• I am leading and working amongst the TD team, guided by standards of excellence and Tahoe Donner’s mission.
DETAILS AVAILABLE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/MEMBER-LETTERS.
TAHOE DONNER NEWS IS CREATED LARGELY IN-HOUSE AND IS PRINTED ON CERTIFIED RECYCLED PAPER STOCK USING SOY-BASED INKS.
Whether I know you by name, we’ve met once or we are yet to meet, this is what you can expect of me as I officially take over the role of Tahoe Donner General Manager:
• I am dedicated to ensuring this is a lasting organization.
• I am looking toward and planning for the future of Tahoe Donner while preserving
In closing, I want to invite the membership to the Tahoe Donner General Manager Meet and Greet on April 14 (the closing day of the Cross Country Ski Center) at the Alder Creek Adventure Center. We’ll have live music, appetizers and an opportunity to connect our leadership from 12-2PM. I hope to see you there and look forward to many more opportunities to connect this summer!
Sincerely,
ANNIE ROSENFELD | GENERAL MANAGER
VOLUME 25 | NO. 04 APRIL 2024 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.
MEMBERSHIP PARCEL RECEIVES ONE SUBSCRIPTION TO A DOMESTIC ADDRESS. 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 MEMBER PORTAL;
EACH
FEATURED
EVENTS
MEMBERS
FREE DAY
SKI
Members can soak up the last of spring skiing and enjoy their home ski areas at a free ski day! Participating members must have a valid ID card.
WHEN: April 5
WHERE: Downhill
Ski Resort and Cross Country Ski Center
LEARN MORE: Page 16
DOWNHILL DUMMY CONTEST
Celebrate the end of the downhill ski season with music, games, food and drink specials and the annual Downhill Dummy Contest, where dummies are launched off a massive jump.
WHEN: April 7
WHERE: Downhill Ski Resort
LEARN MORE: Page 16
NEW GENERAL MANAGER MEET + GREET
Join the TD leadership team and new General Manager Annie Rosenfeld for a meet and greet, in conjunction with TDXC and Alder Creek Cafe’s closing day festivities.
WHEN: April 14
WHERE: Alder Creek Adventure Center
LEARN MORE: Page 17
APRIL EVENTS + MEETINGS
TUESDAYS Mah Jongg Club at Pizza on the Hill
WEDNESDAYS No Corkage at The Lodge
THURSDAYS Karate Club Classes at Trout Creek Rec Center
SUNDAYS Sunday Night Supper by Chef John at The Lodge
SATURDAYS Karate Club Classes at Trout Creek Rec Center
SATURDAYS Winter Music Series at Pizza on the Hill
APRIL 1-15 Boat + Trailer Storage Applications Available
APRIL 3 Quilt Club Meeting at The Lodge
APRIL 4 Defensible Space Program Webinar
APRIL 4 Edi-Bōl at Alder Creek Cafe
APRIL 5
APRIL 7
APRIL 7
APRIL 9
APRIL 11
APRIL 14
APRIL 14
APRIL 15
APRIL 17
APRIL 19-20
APRIL
ACAC:
TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 3
Members
Ski Free Day at Downhill and TDXC
Downhill
at Downhill
Dummy Contest + Closing Day Party
Trivia Night + Dinner Buffet at
Creek Cafe
Alder
Online Membership Forum on the Amenity Access Policy Update
Edi-Bōl at Alder Creek Cafe
Member Services
Temporary Hours Change Begins
New
General Manager Meet + Greet at ACAC + Closing Day Festivities at TDXC
Board
of Directors Candidate Applications Due
Quilt
Club Meeting at The Lodge
Mountain
Wild and Scenic
Festival
Area Preservation’s 8th Annual
Film
26 Regular Board Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse
Alder Creek Adventure Center | TDXC: Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center All events are weather permitting. See full event list at tahoedonner.com/events We do everything you come to Tahoe not to do! Offices at 17400 Northwoods Blvd in TD 530.582.0220 www.secondhomecare.com Serving Tahoe Donner for over 25 years. Email us today: SHC@secondhomecare.com Proudly Serving Truckee & Tahoe-Donner For Over 25 Years Full Service Painting Contractor dedenpainting.com CA Lic #1075237
CELEBRATE WITH DAILY ACTS EARTH DAY
By CYNTHIA CENDREDA
Earth Day is an annual event demonstrating commitment to environmental protection and stewardship. The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, with a nationwide rally organized by former Wisconsin State Senator Gaylord Anton Nelson. Within the year, the U.S. government established the Environmental Protection Agency, and by 1990, Earth Day became an international event recognized by more than 140 countries around the world.
While Earth Day is a once-a-year global celebration, there are many ways to make an impact daily. Consider the following ways to practice sustainability right here in Tahoe Donner.
REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT
Bike or Walk Along Truckee’s Paved Path System to Downtown Truckee
The Trout Creek Trail is a paved pathway that connects Tahoe Donner to downtown Truckee. This 1.5-mile one-way trail (three miles out and back) with a moderate slope provides a scenic, convenient and car-free route to the historic downtown area and is ideal for families on foot, with strollers or on bikes. From downtown, access over 26 miles of additional paved paths throughout the Truckee area!
For more information on the Town of Truckee’s incredible trails, visit townoftruckee.com/government/truckeetrails-and-bikeways
Take Advantage of Free Transportation with TART Bus Routes + TART Connect
The successful microtransit pilot program from Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) provides free, on-demand, curbto-curb transportation within defined areas, including Tahoe Donner and the greater Truckee area. With expanded services throughout Tahoe’s North Shore communities, utilize the shuttle service in combination with TART buses for safe and convenient area-wide public transportation. To learn more about the TART regional transit program, visit tahoetruckeetransit.com
Shop CSA + Choose Locally-Grown Produce and Meat Options in Tahoe Donner
Did you know that Tahoe Donner’s restaurants – The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, Alder Creek Cafe and Pizza on the Hill – incorporate fresh and locally sourced meats and produce in their offerings when they can? The next time you stop in for a bite, make it a point to ask for local menu options. Visit tahoedonner.com/dining or
FEATURE
turn to page 20 to learn more about dining in Tahoe Donner.
Additionally, the Northwoods Clubhouse is a pickup location for Mountain Bounty Farms’ Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) share program, with boxes that include local and organic fruit, vegetables, flowers and mushrooms! While currently on hold for the winter season, CSA delivery to Tahoe Donner will resume in late spring and continue through the fall. For more information on Mountain Bounty Farm, visit their website at mountainbountyfarm.com
REDUCE WASTE + MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE
Properly Dispose of Trash, Recycling and Yard/Green Waste
Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal provides weekly curbside pickup of trash and blue-bag recycling. Additionally, in partnership with Keep Truckee Green (keeptruckeegreen.com), various optin services are available for residents to conveniently and properly dispose of waste, including recycling and green waste rolling carts, green waste dumpsters and large item scheduled curbside pickup.
Familiarize yourself with the trash schedule and waste and recycling services by visiting tahoedonner.com/waste-changes
Maintain Defensible Space Around Your Property
Compliance with Tahoe Donner’s defensible space and forestry management guidelines helps protect against the threat of wildfire and keeps forests healthy. In cleaning and maintaining a perimeter around your property free of excess forest and household debris, you can contribute to ongoing forest restoration efforts that preserve critical natural resources and biodiversity in the landscape.
To learn more about Tahoe Donner’s forestry management and defensible space practices, visit tahoedonner.com/defensible-space or turn to page 24.
Continued on page 6
TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 5
SUMMER CAMPS 2024 NOW ON SALE SWIM LESSONS, HORSEMANSHIP CAMPS AND MORE STILL AVAILABLE. ON SALE APRIL 11 FOR GUESTS OF MEMBERS. LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/SUMMERCAMPS 12TH ANNUAL SUMMER CONCERT ON THE GREEN TICKETS ON SALE MID-APRIL JULY 5 + 6, 2024 LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/SUMMERCONCERT
Ditch Single-Use Food + Drink Containers
Beginning this year, all food establishments in Truckee will charge a $0.25 fee for disposable cups and food containers provided for to-go orders. Save money and help reduce landfill waste by bringing your own reusable drinkware and takeout containers when dining out. For more information on this new ordinance, visit keeptruckeegreen.org/commercial-wasterecycling/single-use-reduction
ENJOY TAHOE
DONNER TRAILS + OPEN SPACES
Volunteer with Tahoe Donner’s Trail Crew
Tahoe Donner is home to some of the most stunning trails in the Truckee area. On Stewardship Days, work alongside the trail crew to improve and maintain the trail network, including building new singletrack, clearing downed trees, putting up signs and more. You can also attend various land management webinars, project site visits and educational tours to learn more about the work done to preserve and protect the community’s open spaces and ecosystems. See the callout box to the right for more, or visit tahoedonner.com/volunteer for details about upcoming volunteer opportunities.
Pick up After Your Pets!
Furry family members shouldn’t miss out on the fun on trails, but if they need to relieve themselves, make sure to pick up after your pets and pack their waste out. Dog waste bags do not decompose, and research suggests that even biodegradable ones do not break down fast enough to leave on the trails. Please carry out your dog’s waste to keep the trails clean and healthy.
BECOME A BACKYARD STEWARD
Learn More About Tahoe Donner’s Forestry Projects and How You Can Support Their Efforts
Throughout the year, the Tahoe Donner Forestry Department and partnering agencies offer opportunities for people to learn about their projects that help protect and preserve the community, local ecosystem and watershed. See below for upcoming educational events and more.
2024 Defensible Space Program Webinar
THURSDAY, APRIL 4 | 6PM
As part of its ongoing commitment to wildfire preparedness and community safety, Tahoe Donner Forestry will host a 2024 Defensible Space Program Webinar. This informative session is tailored for residents within the 2024 defensible space inspection zone, but all homeowners are welcome and encouraged to attend. Crucial topics related to wildfire prevention and preparedness will be explored and discussed.
This webinar presents a unique opportunity to empower yourself with knowledge and resources to safeguard your home and community against the threat of wildfires.
TDA Forestry Department Hosts the Eastern Nevada County Region
Firewise Coalition Meeting
WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 | 6PM
This collaborative gathering brings together Tahoe Donner members, Truckee area Firewise community leaders and members to address crucial topics related to wildfire preparedness and community resilience. Hear from keynote presenter Kevin Marini, UCCE Placer and Nevada Counties Home Horticulture and Defensible Space Community Education Specialist, on FireSmart landscaping. Gain valuable insights and practical tips for implementing FireSmart landscaping techniques to enhance wildfire resilience and engage in discussions and networking opportunities with fellow community members and leaders to share best practices and initiatives for creating fire-adaptive communities.
Location: Alder Creek Adventure Center
Tahoe Donner Forestry Project Tour: USFS Alder Project
TUESDAY, JULY 2 | 5-6PM
Explore the USFS Alder Project with the Tahoe Donner Forestry team. Join this guided tour along the East Perimeter Trail and Alder Creek to witness forestry initiatives firsthand. Learn about sustainable practices and forest management strategies. Don't miss this educational excursion into Tahoe Donner's natural landscape.
Tahoe Donner Forestry Project Tour: Glacier Trailhead
FRIDAY, JULY 26 | 5-6PM
Embark on a guided tour with the Tahoe Donner Forestry team of past forestry projects, starting from the Glacier Trailhead. Explore conservation efforts and their positive impact on Tahoe Donner's ecosystem. Join us for an informative journey through the community’s forestry initiatives.
Tahoe Donner Forestry Project Tour: Alder Creek
THURSDAY, AUG. 8 | 5-6PM
Learn all about key forestry achievements on a guided tour from Alder Creek Adventure Center to the Big Dipper and Wild West area with the TDA Forestry team. Explore past projects, witness environmental stewardship in action and learn about Tahoe Donner’s commitment to forest health.
Truckee River Day
OCT. 20, 2024
Celebrate the 29th Annual Truckee River Day, an event uniting the community to make lasting changes in this impacted watershed. For additional details, visit truckeeriverwc.org/get-involved/ truckee-river-day
FEATURE
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• Free Beach Club Marina, Tennis Center + gym access
• Discounts on retail and food
• Great work-life balance + fun, like-minded people
TAHOEDONNER.COM/JOBS
SPRING INTO SAVINGS
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TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 7
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POSITIONS
NV Lic #075038
SUMMER
AVAILABLE
BACKYARD EDEN
LEARN TO SPOT AND IDENTIFY TAHOE DONNER’S FLORA AND FAUNA
By CYNTHIA CENDREDA
Springtime is a wonderfully active time of transition for Tahoe Donner’s native flora and fauna. Hibernating mammals begin to emerge, birds begin to nest, flowers begin to sprout and the forest comes alive with the hustle and bustle of nature all around! As more trails become accessible, it’s an opportune time to observe Tahoe Donner’s unique ecosystem and discover all the magnificent wildlife right in your backyard.
Several nature guides are available from Tahoe Donner to use for reference and while exploring the trail system. The condensed version on the following page includes common flora and fauna that are observable in the spring months, while full versions of guides for native birds, conifers and wildflowers are available online at tahoedonner.com/field-guides
Take these nature guides with you on your next walk, hike or bike ride. Let your children help spot! Brush up on your biology skills and learn the scientific and common names while circling or crossing out each species listed. Becoming a Tahoe Donner naturalist has never been this fun!
Note: Remember to leave no trace when exploring the trail system. Always pick up your trash, follow proper trail etiquette and respect closed areas and trail boundaries. To learn more about trail usage and proper etiquette, visit tahoedonner.com/trail-etiquette-dogs-on-trails
FEATURE
COURT LEVE
CONIFERS OF TAHOE DONNER
A QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE TO HELP IDENTIFY THE TREES THAT THRIVE WHERE WE LIVE AND PLAY
LODGEPOLE PINE
Pinus contorta
The lodgepole pine prefers to live in moist places but can also be found growing in drier areas. They are characterized by tall, straight trunks and thin orangegray bark.
JEFFREY PINE
Pinus jeffreyi
Almost all new Jeffrey pine trees in a forest are started by the activity of chipmunks and squirrels. The rodents carry the Jeffrey seeds and bury them for later – the nuts they can’t find in the spring often grow into new trees.
RED FIR WHITE FIR
Abies magnifica
The red fir can grow to be a giant, attaining a size of 230 feet in height and 10 feet in diameter. Mature trees have thick reddish-brown or reddishpurple bark. Young trees look a lot like white fir with smooth gray bark and bumpy resin blisters.
Abies concolor
The white fir has a pyramidal shape and is very shade tolerant. In forests that have had little wildfire, this fir often grows thick beneath other trees. The barrel-shaped cones grow only in the top branches of the tree.
CONES
2 inches long –sharp spikes protruding from the cone scales point outward
NEEDLES
Grouped in pairs, about 2 inches long
CONES
6-10 inches with spikes that point down
CONES
Up to 9 inches
CONES
FUN FACT
These pines can thrive in areas that average as little as 10 inches of mean annual precipitation or in regions with 200 inches
NEEDLES
9 inches, growing in groups of 3
NEEDLES
Rounded, and you can roll them between your fingers
FUN FACT
Give this tree a hug – it has a strong vanilla or pineapple smell
FUN FACT
In fall, the forest air can be filled with the winged cone scales of fir trees
3-6 inches, changing from green to brown as they mature
NEEDLES
If you can’t tell the difference between
red and white fir, do the needle test: white fir needles refuse to be rolled between your fingers
FUN FACT
Wings on the cone scale help establish new trees by floating the seed in the wind to other parts of the forest
BIRD GUIDE WILDFLOWER GUIDE
Clark’s Nutcracker
Nucifraga columbiana
Call: a nasal, grating, drawn-out “kra-a-a” along with rapid, sharp “kraak” calls during flight
These birds can be spotted at higher elevations high in the treetops.
Cooper’s Hawk
Accipiter cooperii
Call: a loud “kak-kak-kak”
These stealthy hawks can often be spotted on fence posts or telephone poles waiting to pounce on their prey of small mammals and birds. New name coming soon!
Hairy Woodpecker
Picoides villosus
Call: a sharp “peek” note, lower in pitch than the Downy Woodpecker
Some might describe these birds as looking like part of a heavy metal band.
Mountain Chickadee
Poecile gambeli
Call: “cheese-bur-ger”
These birds are curious and active during the winter and summer months.
Northern Flicker
Colaptes auratus
Call: a quick, single note of “kyeer”
The Northern flicker is a large woodpecker with a black bib on its chest. Males have a black or red mustache running down their cheeks.
Steller’s Jay
Cyanocitta stelleri
Call: A raspy “shook, shook, shook”
This beautiful, blue-colored bird is loud and can often wake you up in the morning by squawking at first light. New name coming soon!
Western Tanager
Piranga ludoviciana
Call: “pi-tic”
Males typically have a red head while females are drab with a greenish-yellow body and black wings.
White-headed Woodpecker
Picoides albolarvatus
Call: a sharp “pee-dink” followed by a prolonged “pee-dee-dee-dink”
These birds are often spotted amongst needle clusters in conifers or foraging for insects on the trunks or limbs of trees.
Alpine Breeches
Hydrophyllum capitatum var. alpinum
Boraginaceae (Borage) family
The flower head is very close to the ground, beneath the leaves, giving the plant kind of an upside-down appearance. Delicate stamens extend from each flower.
Camas Lily
Camassia quamash
Liliaceae (Lily) family
Although famously found around Sagehen Creek, there are camas lilies in Tahoe Donner also, in Euer Valley. The bulbs of these beautiful, deep blue flowers were utilized by Native Americans.
Great Basin Violet
Viola beckwithii
Violaceae (Violet) family
This colorful violet has light purple lower petals –with yellow and white bases to the petals – and darker purple upper petals. The leaves are oblong to linear and are fleshy.
Mahala Mat
Ceanothus prostratus
Rhamnaceae (Buckthorn) family
Common in Tahoe Donner, growing in large patches or masses. Leaves stay green all summer after the (relatively brief) blooming season. Formerly called squaw carpet.
Manzanita
Arctostaphylos sp.
Ericaceae (Heath) family
The most common shrub-like manzanita in the Tahoe region is greenleaf manzanita. There is also a lower, mat-like manzanita called pine-mat manzanita.
Mountain Violet
Viola purpurea
Violaceae (Violet) family
Mountain violet is the most common yellow violet in this area. In addition to the maroon veins on the lower petals, the back of the two upper petals is purple. Violets can be yellow, purple or white.
Snow Plant
Sarcodes sanguinea
Ericaceae (Heath) family
Appears almost as soon as snow melts. Saprophytic plant: obtains nutrients from decaying organic matter in the soil (no photosynthesis).
Willow
Salix spp.
Salicaceae (Willow) family
There are several types of willow in this area, with blooming seasons from March through June. The picture shows typical early-spring catkins (buds) that are getting ready to bloom, and gives the smaller types of willow the familiar name pussy willow.
Plant descriptions and photos courtesy of Susan Kelso.
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Election Information and Key Dates
ONE POSITION OPEN
ELECTIONS 2024 ELECTIONS
The Board and Its Role
The Tahoe Donner Board of Directors is the governing body of the association and is responsible for the direction and oversight of the organization. The board is made up of five unpaid volunteers that are elected by the membership, and one or two positions are open each year. These five members make a significant impact on both the community and your investment. From overseeing projects and preserving open spaces to uniting the community and making sure members are heard, there are many reasons to become a guiding member of Tahoe Donner. Issues that come before the board include:
• Setting association policy and strategic planning
• Evaluating capital projects and setting priorities
• Establishing and overseeing the budget and the levying and collection of assessments
• Overseeing the maintenance, repair and replacement of facilities
• Enforcing the governing documents
Run for the Board –
Key Dates
This is a summarized list of dates and requirements. See additional important details in the Election Key Dates and Procedures section at tahoedonner.com/boardelections
March 14
April 15 10AM
April 16
April 25 12PM
May 1
ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED
DIRECTOR ELECTION STATEMENTS AND WEBSITE LINK INFORMATION DUE
Candidates and verified members who wish to submit a Director Election Statement (as a PDF) and/or a personal director election-related website link and email address must send them to electionscommitteee@tahoedonner.com by 12PM.
The requirements and due dates for non-candidate members to be verified as eligible to submit a Director Election Statement and/or a personal director electionrelated website link are provided in Election Key Dates and Procedures at tahoedonner.com/boardelections
DIRECTOR ELECTION STATEMENTS
POSTED TO ELECTIONS WEBSITE
The Director Election Statements and links to personal director election-related websites submitted by candidates and verified members will be posted to tahoedonner.com/boardelections
May 22 5PM
May 28
CANDIDATE APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE
Candidacy applications became available electronically at tahoedonner.com/boardelections
CANDIDATE APPLICATIONS DUE
Applications are due by 10AM and must be submitted electronically to electionscommittee@tahodonner.com, along with proof of ownership (copy of recorded deed) and a conflict-of-interest disclosure form. The application and related items must be submitted as a PDF.
June 4 6-9PM
DEADLINE FOR MEMBERS TO
SUBMIT TOPICS FOR THE DIRECTOR ELECTION FORUM
Deadline for members to submit topics of interest for the Directors Election Forum (which will be held on June 4). Submit all topics to tahoedonner.com/submit-topics. The topics will be provided to speakers on May 28.
BALLOTS MAILED
This is the date of record for the election – owners, as of this date, are eligible to vote. The ballot and election materials mailed to members will include Director Election Statements.
DIRECTOR ELECTION FORUM
ONLINE VIA ZOOM
Topic areas submitted by members by May 22 will be addressed by candidates in an online event moderated by the Inspector of Elections. Verified members may speak on the same topics following all of the candidates.
2024 ELECTIONS
2024
THE REPORT
June 28
9AM-5PM
ELECTION BALLOT MEETING + REGULAR BOARD MEETING
AT THE NORTHWOODS CLUBHOUSE AND ONLINE VIA ZOOM
On-site voting and replacement ballots are available until 5PM. The Inspector of Elections will attend this meeting to oversee the ballot counting process. The deadline for receipt of ballots mailed or personally delivered to the Accountancy Firm is 5PM.
June 30
Meeting
10AM-12PM
Voting
10-11:30AM
ELECTION DAY + ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS
AT THE NORTHWOODS CLUBHOUSE AND ONLINE VIA ZOOM
The Annual Membership Meeting will be held from 10AM-12PM. Hand-delivered ballots are accepted at the Annual Membership Meeting from 10-11:30AM, at which time voting will conclude. Replacement ballots will be available until the conclusion of voting. Prior to the conclusion of the meeting, if a 25% quorum is achieved and the election results are certified by the Inspector of Elections, results (including vote count) are announced at the meeting and communicated to the membership via email and Tahoe Donner News
If less than 25% of voters have submitted valid ballots, the failure to achieve a quorum will be announced, and the meeting, along with the culmination of the election, will be adjourned to the following morning.
Ensure You Receive Your 2024 Ballot
TO UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFO, VISIT
TAHOEDONNER.COM/MEMBER-PORTAL BY MAY 8
Voting packets and ballots will be mailed to all members of record on May 28 at the address on file for your invoices. Each property address is eligible for one vote.
CA Civil Code 4041 requires updated contact info annually.
Ballot Mailing via USPS
All ballot return envelopes are pre-addressed and delivered directly to the third-party accountancy firm in Reno, Nevada via the United States Postal Service.
Campaign Spending
Campaign Guidelines encourage candidates to conduct an economical campaign that employs cost-effective campaign outreach techniques. To support this objective, the association posts Director Election Statements and links to personal director election-related websites on the Tahoe Donner elections website and hosts an online election event, the Director Election Forum.
July 1
IF FAILURE TO REACH QUORUM
If there is a failure to achieve the 25% quorum requirement, the Annual Membership meeting is reconvened at 10AM at Northwoods Clubhouse for the purpose of concluding the annual Election of Directors in accordance with a reduced 15% quorum requirement. As soon as the election results are certified by the Inspector of Elections, the results (including vote tally) are announced and posted.
What's New in This Election?
The Elections Committee strives to find new ways to facilitate member participation consistent with the association's bylaws and Elections and Voting Rules. Over the last several years, the committee has revised the Elections Committee Charter and written new Campaign Guidelines, which the board adopted.
This year, non-candidate members will have the opportunity to participate by submitting a Director Election Statement, providing a website link to a 2024 director election-related personal website and participating in the Director Election Forum. To do so, non-candidate members must submit a Member Verification Form. This form will be available at tahoedonner.com/boardelections and must be sent by April 15 at 10AM to electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com
For more information, requirements and deadlines, visit tahoedonner.com/boardelections. The Committee has an email account for member questions and comments at electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com
If
topics would you like them to address? We are looking for discussion topics for the Director Election Forum. Submit topics you wish to see candidates discuss to
Opt Out of Email Sharing
California Senate Bill 323 allows any Tahoe Donner member to request the official Tahoe Donner membership list, including email addresses. If you would like to opt out of sharing your contact information with members, please visit tahoedonner.com/sb323
Please note: Some members may have received your email address prior to when you opted out. You can remove yourself from those members’ lists by clicking the unsubscribe link contained in their emails.
THOSE OPTING OUT WILL STILL RECEIVE REGULAR INFORMATIONAL CONTACT FROM THE TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION.
TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 13
Photo by Allie Ballesteros
FOR ELECTION INFORMATION, VISIT TAHOEDONNER.COM/BOARDELECTIONS
remain nonpartisan when an association’s election requires the use of secret ballots in accordance with Civil Code Section 5100, an association is required to “select an independent third party or parties as an inspector of elections.” (Civ. Code § 5110(a).) The number of inspector(s) must either be one or three. (Civ. Code § 5110(a).) Please note that an Inspector of Elections has been appointed. INSPECTORS OF ELECTIONS
To
what
tahoedonner.com/submit-topics
Candidates
Address?
you could sit down with the candidates,
by May 22. Have a Topic You Would Like the
to
Trout Creek
A HISTORY OF MISUSE, MODIFICATION + RESTORATION
By CYNTHIA CENDREDA
Among Tahoe Donner’s many wondrous natural landmarks is Trout Creek, a small tributary of the Truckee River just north of Lake Tahoe. Originating on Donner Ridge, well within the confines of the Tahoe Donner community, this small but mighty creek flows southeast for approximately five and a half miles from the Tahoe Donner Golf Course, through downtown Truckee and then east to the Truckee River, just before Highway 267. Its unique history has been recorded since the 1860s, conveying its misuse, modification, rerouting, and ultimately its restoration.
1860-1900s
WAY STATION AND LOGGING OPERATIONS
Earliest recordings of creek impacts and misuse date back to 1863, when a man named Joseph Gray built a way station at the foot of the watershed on the California Emigrant Trail. Five years later, Elle Ellen arrived on the heels of the Transcontinental Railroad and built a sawmill. His 3.5-mile logging flume pulled water from Trout Creek and extended all the way to the railroad in Truckee, operating between 1876 and 1883.
1900s
DIVERTING THE CREEK AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY
According to the Truckee-Donner Historical Society, the earliest known record of Trout Creek is documented in an 1885 USGS Quad Map for Truckee, where it is shown flowing in a southeasterly direction to its confluence with the Truckee River right through the present-day historic downtown area (in the vicinity of Church and Bridge streets). This route was considerably shorter and steeper than the creek’s current flow.
A 1900s map of downtown Truckee shows a diverted Trout Creek near Jibboom Street with a northeasterly flow path, which provided a likely water source for a nearby ice pond. This diversion allowed for the development of downtown Truckee to the east of Bridge Street, and the creek was then connected to the Truckee River from there.
FEATURE
Elle Ellen’s Mill on Trout Creek. Photo by H.K. Gage.
A beaver dam on modern day Trout Creek. Photo by Ted Guzzi.
A flood at Trout Creek, Jan. 2, 1997. Photo by Ron Rettig, Truckee-Donner Historical Society
Privies over Trout Creek in 1917. Photo by C.G. Gillespie. Photo courtesy of Truckee Sanitary District.
The Elle Ellen flume behind downtown Truckee. Photo courtesy Truckee-Donner Historical Society.
1900-1950s POLLUTION, DISEASE AND THE CREATION OF TRUCKEE SANITATION DISTRICT
In 1903, Truckee experienced several major health emergencies that included outbreaks of Scarlett Fever, Smallpox, Diphtheria, Typhoid Fever and Influenza. In 1907, The Truckee Republican reported the cause to be the shacks and privies that “dumped into the Trout Creek.” Referring to it as “nothing more than a sewage ditch,” the newspaper highlighted the polluted state of Trout Creek as an ideal breeding ground for disease. Concerns of extreme health hazards led to Truckee forming the Truckee Sanitation District, and by 1909, over 17,000 feet of sewer lines were installed serving 110 buildings and two cesspools in town.
From 1930-1945, garbage was dumped from Euer Valley Road down the east flank of Trout Creek, a system that may have constituted the first organized garbage collection in Truckee’s history.
1950s-2008 CHANNEL IMPACTS + FLOOD DANGER
Given the impacts of additional re-routing between 1952 and 1966, including the completion of Interstate 80 and the extension of Bridge Street, the lower Trout Creek channel proved unstable and required ongoing maintenance. Several of the creek’s culverts restricted flood flows, increasing flood hazard in downtown Truckee. Major flood events in 1997 and 2006 indicated that significant work needed to be done to address the channel, and studies were conducted in 2002 and 2008 to assess how to manage the creek moving forward.
For more on the history of Trout Creek, visit the Truckee-Donner Historical Society’s website at truckeehistory.org/history-of-trout-creek
Present Day
RESTORATION EFFORTS
Today, the Trout Creek Restoration Project is a collaborative effort between the Town of Truckee and other agencies to address the lower portion of the creek, including:
• Restoring the natural function of the creek
• Improving ecological value by creating riparian and aquatic habitat
• Improving water quality by managing local water runoff
• Providing flood protection
• Improving the recreational and aesthetic value of the creek
To date, four of the six defined reaches of lower Trout Creek have been restored, with the remaining two in conceptual phases. The goal of the Town is to complete the entire restoration project by 2030. For more information on the Trout Creek Restoration Project visit townoftruckee.com
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THE BUZZ
EVENTS. DINING. UPDATES.
DOWNHILL SKI RESORT
Widely recognized as the “best place to begin,” Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort offers wide, friendly ski runs and affordable family fun! Plan ahead and book your lift tickets, lessons and rentals on ShopTD to guarantee your preferred days.
CLOSING DAY
SUNDAY, APRIL 7
HOURS OF OPERATION
LIFTS: Daily | 9AM-4PM
TICKETS + RENTALS:
Daily | 8AM-4:30PM
DOWNHILL GRILL:
Daily | 8-10:30AM + 11AM-3PM
DOWNHILL BAR: Daily | 11AM-4:30PM
PARKING SHUTTLES:
Daily | 8AM-4:45PM
MEMBERS SKI FREE DAY
FRIDAY, APRIL 5
Enjoy the final days of spring skiing with one additional free ski day for members at the Downhill Ski Resort or the Cross Country Ski Center. Participating members must have a valid ID card. Advanced reservations are not required except for rentals and lessons; additional fees may apply. Visit tahoedonner.com/events for complete details.
SKI + RIDE LESSON PACKAGES
Find inclusive group lesson packages for adults and children as young as 3, starting at $191 for members. Group lesson packages include a full-day lift ticket, lesson and rental equipment. For more personalized instruction, private or semi-private lessons are available and tailored to your unique
abilities and skill level. Starting at $195 for members, book now on ShopTD.
TUNING + RETAIL SALE
Give your gear a final tune-up before stowing them away for the season at the tech shop. Plus, find great deals on all your favorite ski brands for outerwear, base layers and other accessories with end-of-the-season sales at the retail shop.
DINING + DRINKS AT DOWNHILL SKI GRILL + BAR
Enjoy bluebird skies and après on the sun deck this spring. The Downhill Ski Grill and Bar offers an array of breakfast and lunch options, full bar service and other delights, including a special après menu of shareable bites from 3-4:30PM Friday through Sunday and daily happy hour from 3-4:30PM, featuring $7 beer, wine and cocktails.
DOWNHILL DUMMY CONTEST + CLOSING DAY
SUNDAY, APRIL 7 | 9AM-4:30PM
The final event of the season features a closing-day bash with a live DJ, food and drink specials and the annual Downhill Dummy Contest!
All events are weather permitting and subject to cancellation. Learn more at tahoedonner.com/events
tahoedonner.com/downhill
GOLF COURSE
PGA JUNIOR LEAGUE REGISTRATION
Calling all junior golfers! PGA Jr. League registration opens on April 10 on their website at pgajrleague.com.
The Tahoe Donner (TD) Junior Golf Club has now joined the PGA Jr. League and is offering opportunities to play on either a home or travel team. The new travel team is for youth golfers interested in playing in entrylevel competitions at regional golf courses. Travel team players will play every Monday at the Tahoe Donner Golf Course or other local courses and play additional practice rounds on Thursdays.
Registration with the PGA Jr. League is required for joining the TD Junior Golf Club teams. All PGA-registered players will receive two personalized golf shirts and other goodies! For additional info or questions, visit tahoedonner.com/pga-junior-league
WINTER GOLF SIMULATOR
Can’t wait for the golf season to start?
Swing away with the state-of-the-art FlightScope launch monitor, now available by reservation for members and the public through April 28.
Whether you want to practice on your own, enjoy with friends (up to three) or take a private lesson from a PGA-affiliated instructor, the simulator located inside the Pro Shop is an ideal way to continue improving or enhancing your skills in the off-season.
For more information on hours, pricing and passes, reservations and more, visit the website.
tahoedonner.com/golf
All prices, dates, times and locations are subject to change. Please visit tahoedonner.com for the latest information. KYLIE PAPSON
CROSS COUNTRY SKI CENTER
Voted the Best Cross Country Ski Area in Truckee/North Tahoe year after year by Sierra Sun readers, explore over 100 kilometers of ski/snowshoe trails and snow-kissed alpine views at the Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center (TDXC).
CLOSING DAY
SUNDAY, APRIL 14
The Cross Country Ski Center is thrilled to announce it’s extending its season through April 14! Thanks to early season snowmaking efforts, recent snowfall and outstanding conditions, keep the spring skiing fun going on the pristine trails.
HOURS OF OPERATION
TRAILS: Daily | 8:30AM-5PM
RENTALS + REPAIRS:
Daily | 8:30AM-4:45PM
ALDER CREEK CAFE:
Daily | 8:30AM-3PM
Thursday | 5-8PM
Sunday | 5-7PM
TRAILSIDE BAR:
Daily | 11AM-4:30PM
Thursday + Sunday | 4:30PM-Close
Always check the grooming report on the website for daily updates on the trail details and conditions.
WINTER TRAIL ACCESS
Please note: a trail pass is required for access to ski or snowshoe. Hiking and biking are not permitted within the ski area boundary. Dogs are not allowed except those with season passes and only on designated trails.
MEMBERS SKI FREE DAY
FRIDAY, APRIL 5
Soak up the last of spring skiing with a free ski day for members at Downhill Ski Resort or the Cross Country Ski Center. Participating members must have a valid ID card. Advanced reservations are not required except for rentals and lessons; additional fees may apply. Visit tahoedonner.com/events for complete details.
TAHOE DONNER NEW GENERAL MANAGER MEET + GREET
SUNDAY, APRIL 14 | 12-2PM
Join the TD leadership team in congratulating Annie Rosenfeld on her recent appointment as the new General Manager of Tahoe Donner. Guests are invited for an association GM meet and greet as a special event in conjunction with TDXC’s closing day festivities. Enjoy live music, appetizers and a celebratory toast to the future while connecting with Annie and fellow leaders of Tahoe Donner.
2024/25 XC SKI SEASON PASSES ON SALE NOW
As a cross country season passholder, enjoy the lowest rates on XC skiing, plus exclusive perks and benefits, including:
• Food and retail discounts at TDXC
• Free ski days at regional ski areas
• Complimentary and discounted buddy passes
• And more!
Valid for the remainder of the current season, the fun begins now!
SPRING CONDITIONS ARE GREAT FOR LEARNING!
• Enjoy great weather and conditions for learning classic and skate skiing. From beginner progression to refining techniques, professional instructors are ready to help! Reserve today on ShopTD.
• Member private lessons start at $89
• Member group lesson packages include trail pass and rental equipment and start at $79
• BEST DEAL: Midweek private lesson packages include a trail pass, rental equipment and lesson, and start at $139 for members
SKI TUNING + RETAIL SALE
Elongate the life of your XC gear with a final tuneup from the tech shop before putting your skis away for the season. Additionally, enjoy great endof-the-season deals on cross country ski clothing and accessories from top brands in the retail store.
tahoedonner.com/xc
EQUESTRIAN CENTER
HORSEBOARDING
The Equestrian Center is currently accepting 2024 horseboarding applications for members and non-members. Visit the website to learn more.
CAMPS ON SALE
Horsemanship Camps are still available for young riders, ages 8-14. See tahoedonner.com/summercamps for more information.
tahoedonner.com/equestrian
TROUT CREEK REC CENTER
HOURS OF OPERATION
GYM: Daily | 6AM-9PM
LAP POOL: Daily | 6AM-7:45PM
HOT TUBS, STEAM ROOM + SAUNA: Daily | 6AM-8:45PM
Conditions permitting. No lifeguards on duty; swim at own risk. The Rec Pool will be closed until summer. The steam room and sauna may periodically be closed for maintenance.
GYM STICKER REQUIRED
Members ages 13-17 with a gym sticker may use the gym without direct supervision only after attending an orientation and having the gym waiver and code of conduct signed by a parent or legal guardian.
To schedule an orientation, email troutcreek@tahoedonner.com
tahoedonner.com/fitness tahoedonner.com/aquatics
SNOWPLAY SNOWPLAY IS CLOSED FOR THE SEASON
Thanks for a great season. We'll see you next year for playtime at Tahoe Donner's ultimate winter playground!
THE BUZZ: CLUBS
QUILT CLUB
Happy spring! Many of you may already know, but I am told one of our Quilting Group members from the Women’s Golf group, Lydia Stang, is quite the golfer. But did you know that Lydia is also an accomplished quilter? She is very deft with a sewing machine as well. She always dazzles us with her various colorful and bright projects, from quilts and bags to purses and wallets. Wallets – with many compartments, windows and zippers! Just thinking of the patterns to make those gives me a headache. This picture is the last quilt she showed us, which is stunning. Thank you, Lydia, for all the inspiration, and keep them coming!
I also want to mention that we delivered 12 baby blankets and nine tummy time quilts in late March to two local charities. Thanks to all who participated and donated their time and skills to that project. If you want to learn more about what we do, please email odette.turmel@gmail.com. The TD Quilting Group meets on the first and third Wednesday of the month from 1–3PM in the Alder room of The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. We welcome sewers of any level.
MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB
We’re excited for the 2024 TD Mountain Bike Club (TDMTB) season!
If you are interested in joining or have yet to register as a member, please visit our website at tdmtb.club. Come be a part of an incredible season filled with adventure and fun.
For our current members, it’s time to renew your membership! Stay tuned as we get the 2024 schedule up on the website. We have an exciting season planned, and we hope to see you out on the trails!
JUNIOR GOLF CLUB
It’s time to sign up for this summer’s Tahoe Donner Junior Golf Club! As previously mentioned, TDJGC is now under the umbrella of the Tahoe Donner PGA Jr. League. To learn more, head to the Junior Golf Programs section of the Tahoe Donner website. Registration opens on April 10 via the PGA Jr. League website at pgajrleague.com
TDJGC will be called the home team and play on the Tahoe Donner Golf Course every Thursday at 2PM. We will also offer a travel team for our players who played last year and those interested in entry-level competition. Matches will be played every Monday at TD or an away course like Martis Camp. Travel Team members will have additional practice rounds every Thursday at TD.
When you sign up via the PGA, players will receive golf goodies, including two personalized golf shirts with your last name and number of choice. All golfers will get lots of time on the golf course, receive instruction from TD golf professionals, meet new friends, and, most importantly, have a great time. Additionally, both teams can enjoy fun social events throughout the year. For any questions, please get in touch with Coach Molly at mspringmann@tahoedonner.com
4-WHEELERS CLUB
Sierra Adventure Vehicles, a highly capable Truckee 4x4 shop, hosted us for a vehicle modification workshop. We learned about upgrades appropriate for various trail uses, from overlanding and general exploring to mild or extreme rock crawling. Owners brought in their vehicles to show examples of the modifications. Discussions started with the associated tire diameter, and we were educated on what else was required. For example, 33-inch tires are great for overlanding and exploring forest service roads but don’t have the ground clearance needed for more challenging terrain. 35-inch and 37-inch tires add ground clearance. 40-inch tires give significant ground clearance but require new heavier axles and major suspension modifications. Equipment costs increase exponentially with tire size, but so does off-road capability. How far you go with modifications ultimately depends on what you want to do. Thanks to Mike, TJ and the entire Sierra Adventure Vehicle crew for the great session!
For more information and to see our 2024 trail ride schedule, visit td4wheelers.org
TD 9-HOLERS CLUB
The TD Women’s 9-Holer Golf Club membership drive is underway now! Don't wait for the snow to melt to get the dust off your clubs – we have preseason clinics starting in April with our resident pro, Jeff Hwang, in the indoor golf simulator. To see our calendar of events and to join our club, please visit our website at td9holers.com
KYLIE PAPSON
KARATE CLUB
More promotions to celebrate this month. Congratulations to Luis, Kayla, Jayden and Bradley for achieving the rank of brown belt. Also, congratulations to Jesse for his promotion to blue belt and Kinsey and Fletcher, who were promoted to green belt.
Location: Trout Creek Rec Center
Days: Thursdays and/or Saturdays
Times: 4-6PM
Costs: $50 annual club fee plus paid Rec Fee or Daily Access Fee; parent(s) who participate with a child are free Eligibility: Ages 8+
To Join: Contact Suz Field Sensei at IKLdojo.TD@gmail.com to observe or participate in classes prior to joining the club
WOMEN’S GOLF CLUB
Believe it or not, golf season is only a few months away. Our first TD Play Day is scheduled for Tuesday, May 28, weather permitting. It is not too late to join the Women's Golf Club. Throughout the season, members enjoy a mix of Just Play Golf days and more structured tournaments, such as The Presidents Club. Other fun events include a TD Golf Welcome Event scheduled for May 26 and a Guest Day on July 23, where you can invite a friend to join in on the fun.
For more information and a complete schedule, visit tdwomengolf.org
AMERICAN MAH JONGG CLUB
New to the game, Janet Mann, pictured here, enjoyed her first Mah Jongg win during club hours. She just learned last fall, 2023, with Linda Slattery. Janet says, “It’s a very challenging game, but I really like it. My parents used to play with their friends, and I was always intrigued by the game. I've only played five games without assistance.” Congratulations, Janet!
The club meets every Tuesday at Pizza on the Hill from 12-3PM. We play American Mah Jongg using the current year's National Mah Jongg League card and rules. No RSVP needed! For more information about the American Mah Jongg Club, contact Linda Slattery at lbslattery@yahoo.com or Dori Schick at doridans@hotmail.com.
MEN’S GOLF CLUB
While Tahoe Donner’s golf slowly awakens, planning is underway for the 2024 golf season. The TDMGC provides a variety of events throughout the summer, with something for everyone. We have socials, weekly Wednesday games, events for family and friends and team events. We also provide opportunities to prove your individual skills at the Match Play and Club Championships. Here are just a few of the over 30 events we offer:
SUMMER 2024
May 26 – Kickoff Social
June 9 – Ice Breaker (Season Opening Tournament)
Aug. 17-18 – Club Championship Weekend
Sept. 5-7 – Invitational
For more information about the Men’s Golf Club and how to establish membership, visit tdgolfclub.com or contact Membership Chair Michael O’Connell via email at oconnell.tdgolf@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you in 2024.
SENIOR ALPINE SKI CLUB
March came in like a lion with 6-10 feet of snow in the first week! We had oh-so-much fun on our club ski days. At Alpine Meadows, we held a “retro” ski day, and we all wore our old ski outfits from the 70’s and 80’s – onepiece “fashion” ski suits, blue jeans, gaiters, ancient ski sweaters – what a colorful group!
We had a blast at our annual threenight, four-day ski trip to Mammoth Mountain Resort with fabulous snow and close to 40 members and friends enjoying a true MAMMOTH mountain. This “miracle March” means we will be skiing into May and enjoying corn snow and sunny spring conditions. Please visit our website at tdski.com for more information.
FORM A CLUB! Learn more at tahoedonner.com/clubs
THE BUZZ: DINING
The Lodge Restaurant & Pub is an award-winning neighborhood bistro with a hand-picked wine selection, craft cocktails and a fresh menu featuring local and organic meat and produce. Order dinner, drinks and desserts the whole family is sure to enjoy.
HOURS
Wednesday-Sunday | 5-8:30PM
Make a dinner reservation online at OpenTable.com or call (530) 587-9455.
HAPPY HOUR
WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY | 5-6PM
Happy hour at The Lodge Pub is back with $8 draft beer, house wine and well cocktails, plus 25% off the pub menu.
SUNDAY NIGHT SUPPER
BY CHEF JOHN
SUNDAYS IN APRIL | 5-8:30PM
Enjoy a special two-course dinner and hand-selected glass of red or white wine for $39 every Sunday evening in April. Each special includes either a cup of soup or side house salad. Visit the website for full menu details.
NO CORKAGE
WEDNESDAY
Enjoy a waived corkage fee for wines brought from home. Not valid during holiday periods or for banquets or private parties.
12850 NORTHWOODS BLVD (530) 587-9455
TAHOEDONNER.COM/THELODGE
VOTED BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT BY SIERRA SUN READERS!
Pizza on the Hill serves up delicious menu options for the whole family, including fresh pizza, pasta, appetizers, salads and more.
HOURS
Friday-Monday | 4-8PM
Reservations strongly recommended. Make a reservation online at OpenTable.com or call (530) 582-9669.
HAPPY HOUR
FRIDAY-MONDAY | 4-5PM
Enjoy $5 beer and wine plus 25% off appetizers – available for dine-in and takeout orders.
WINTER MUSIC SERIES
SATURDAY | 5:30-7:30PM
Enjoy live music from your favorite local musicians and bands every Saturday evening in April as part of the Winter Music Series. Visit tahoedonner.com/winter-music-series for the full lineup.
11509 NORTHWOODS BLVD (530) 582-9669
TAHOEDONNER.COM/PIZZA
DOWNHILL SKI GRILL + BAR
HOURS
CLOSING APRIL 7
Breakfast | Saturday-Sunday 8-10:30AM
Lunch | Daily 11AM-3PM
Grab + Go | Daily 8AM-4:30PM
Après | Friday-Sunday 3-4:30PM
Bar | Daily 11AM-4:30PM (Happy Hour 3-4:30PM)
See website for the latest menus.
11603 SNOWPEAK WAY
TAHOEDONNER.COM/GRILL-BAR
Alder Creek Cafe, located in Alder Creek Adventure Center, is known for delicious, healthy options featuring seasonal and organic ingredients. The Trailside Bar offers a variety of unique draft and bottled beers and a diverse wine list.
HOURS
CLOSING APRIL 14
Grab + Go Breakfast*
Daily through April 14 | 8:30-11AM
Lunch*
Daily through April 14 | 11AM-3PM
Dinner
Thursday, April 4 + 11 | 5-8PM
Sunday, April 7 | 5-7PM
Trailside Bar
Daily through April 14 | 11AM-4:30PM + During Dinners
*Limited menu options April 7-14.
EDI-BŌL THURSDAY
THURSDAY, APRIL 4 + 11 | 5-8PM
Enjoy the final two Edi-Bōls of the season, featuring your favorite comfort foods with a twist! Beer and wine available from the Trailside Bar.
TRIVIA NIGHT + DINNER BUFFET
SUNDAY, APRIL 7 | 5-7PM
Stop by for the final trivia night of the season, featuring lively trivia rounds, $5 beer and wine and a special buffetstyle menu available for purchase.
NEW TD GENERAL MANAGER MEET + GREET
SUNDAY, APRIL 14 | 12-2PM
Join us in congratulating Annie Rosenfeld on her recent appointment as the new General Manager of Tahoe Donner. Guests are invited for a Meet + Greet as a special event in conjunction with TDXC’s closing day festivities. Enjoy live music, appetizers and a celebratory toast to the future while connecting with Annie and fellow leaders of Tahoe Donner.
15275 ALDER CREEK RD (530) 582-9686
TAHOEDONNER.COM/ALDERCREEKCAFE
All offers listed are valid during non-holiday periods and are not valid with any other promotions or coupons. Offers subject to change. Check the website for changes to operating dates and hours. All hours of operation are conditions permitting.
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2023 GIVING REPORT TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND
Thanks to the generosity of Tahoe Donner members, in 2023, the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund awarded a total of $307,500 in scholarships and grants through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, which administers the TDGF.
$47,500 to traditional scholarships
$60,000 to nonprofit organization grants
$200,000 to IMPACT scholarships
$307,500 Total Giving, 2023
In addition to the many donors listed below, special thanks to two tremendously generous donors:
Since its inception in 2014, the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund’s founding partner, Jaime Waltman Legare, Elements Mountain Company, has supported the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund by donating $1 per snow contract each year to cover administrative costs so 100% of members’ donations go to scholarships and grants – that’s now over $4,200 annually.
Every year since 2019, an anonymous Tahoe Donner member has generously funded the IMPACT Scholarships, with donations that by 2023 totaled $1 million.
Our sincere thanks to all donors for your generosity,
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee:
Marcia Argyris, Carla Brown, Diane Campbell, Monika De Martini, Fred Hertlein, Nan Meek, Toni Moore, Betsy Noonen, Karen Stine
Karen Aaron
Al and Susan Adams
Betsy and Jay Adams
Chris and Sue Adams
Jess Alchin
Agnes Ang
Jack Angel
Chloe Annear
Nick and Marcia Anton
Andrew Argyris
Marcia and George
Argyris
Nyna Armstrong
Karen Ashley
David Auslander
Vivian Auslander
Joseph Balan
Sylvia and Craig Banta
Lisa Barr
Tanya Barron
Cindy Basso
Felicia Bateman
Bettina Bazzini-Lapin
Mony and Bruce Bauer
Kevin Beadle
Ann Beaton
John Biebl
Helen Blau
Todd Bobick
Vicente Bonnard
Glenn Borchardt
Amber Bowden
Gavin Bridgeman
Deidre Brodeur
Carla and Mike Brown
Dean Browne
Fritz Brunner
Carl Buck
April Bullock
Casey Burns
Sophia and Jim Burton
Sara Byrne
Barbara Bysiek
Mae C
Raymond Cadei
Diane Campbell
Olivier Cantin
J Capurro
Lisa Carney
Jenny Casey
Kelsey Casey
Andrea Cassidy
Terry and Coral Cavanagh
Manette Chadwick
Mary and Ron Chapman
Naomi Chavez Peters
Patricia Chin
Joseph and Dianne Clendenin
Jim and Marie Colbert
Bruce Comstock
Joe Connors
Michael Corey
Karen Cormia
Fallon Cox
Cynthia L.
Cummings-Boutte
Leanne Cummins
Edmund and Barbara
Czerwinski
Christopher Danko
Gary and Shirley Day
Keri Combs Daly
Monika De Martini
David Dean
John Degner
Megan Delehanty
Charles Deloney
Judy DePuy
Murray Dogstein
Jennifer and J.T. Doupnik
Dudziec Gallegos Family
Jeannette Duff
Blake Durtsche
Marybeth Dyer
Rick Elfman
Marissa Endres
Kathy Englar
Pam and Mike English
Robert English and Anna Maria Zara
Kathy and Randy Erickson
Terri Ettinger
Michael Evans
Denise Eyton-Lloyd
Dan and Linda Fairfax
Merle and Michael Fajans
Linda Felker
Stuart Felker
Irene Flores
Lisa Fornal
Nancy Fong
Trenton Fong
Donald Freed
Bradley Frey
Susan Friedman
Bryan Furlong
Malinda Gacula
Laurie Getz
Martha Gilbertson
Tracy Giles
Jody Gold
Patricia Gold
Christine Gordon
Bruce Green
Eli Groppo
Nancy Gross
Kathy Cote Guarnieri
Marsha and Ralph
Guggenheim
Edward Guzman
Julie Hackett
Lily Hackett
Rosemary Hallett
Dragon Hansen
Daniel Harfe
Taylor Harris
Jon and Connie Hartung
Krissy Hassett
Blake Haverty
Peggy Headley
Eli and Heidi Hefner
Deirdre Henderson
Pam and Tim Herman
Fred Hertlein
Anne Higgins
Lindsay Hogan
Harold Honath
Jan Hughes
Hulburd Family
Herb Hwang
Lauralee Hyde
Stacy and Keith Jackson
William Jackson
Aafiya Jamal
Ria Jambusaria
Kathy Janeiro
Jennifer Jennings
Bill and Margaret Jensen
Steve Juarez
Kimberly Johanson
Greg and Linda Kannall
THE REPORT
Michael Kappler
Amanda Kastelic
Dan Kates
Jessi Kaufer
Rachel Keane
Kristine Kelleher
Joshua and Luz Kirsch
Chris, Mimi and Elsie
Kohlhardt-Pajo
Allison Kozak
Joan Kreamer
Anirudh Krovi
Gretchen Kryss-Peak
Mark T. Kubo
Anushka Kurra
Colleen Kurtz
Patricia Kurtz
Sally Landis
Haakon Lang-Ree
Spencer Larson
Rosemarie Laurain
Brian Leary
Cathy Leibow
Corey Leibow
Carol and Bill Leimbach
Susan H. Lenz
MaryAnn Levenson
Benjamin Levine
Sandra Levine, MD
Laura Lindgren
Jeffrey Little
Debra Liu
Meghan Lloyd
Vivian Lopez
Deborah Lorraine
Natalie Love
Charles Lu
David Lydick
Carole Kay Lynn
Thomas Mader
Stephen and Carole
Mahoney
Rob Mains
Jeanne Malia
Don and Gabrielle Marks
Joe Marotta
Michael Marshall
Jennifer Martin
Christine Massetani
Adam McDonough
Robin McLaughlin
Catherine McLin
Tracy and Ian McMahan
Kate McNeil
Doug and Mary McWilliams
Nan and Jerry Meek
Divya Mehta
Edward Melia
Rosa Mere
Joey Meyer
Sandi Meyer
Paul Meyerhof
Kathleen Michon
Hilary and Jerry Milana
Dana Miller-Blair
Isabel Montanez
Toni Moore
Donald and Carol Morris
Heather Mount
Deborah Mosser
Trudy Muller
Loretta Mullins
Andrew Murray
Cam and Marcia Murray
Courtney Murrell
Silpa Nanduri
Anne and Rob Naragon
Betsy and Mike Noonen
Matt O’Brien
Amie O’Toole
Thomas O’Toole
Sandra and Tom Olinger
Carol Onderka
Ernest Ongaro
Mary Or
Taylor Ortiz
John Osborn
David Osleger
Jamie Ozimek
Jeff Paduan
Kim Paleg
Melissa and Michael Palmer-Marshall
Michael Paparian
Michael Paravati
Zachary Patton
Tim and Cathy Pellegrini
Shirley Phelan
Nicole Phillips
Matthew Piersol
John and Mary Podesta
Jacob Portukalian
Graham Powell
Lynette Powell
Zachary Price
Joseph and Nancy Radovsky
Craig Ragg
Barbara Ramsey
Sheila Raumer
Cathy Ravano
Tami Reckler-Smith
Robert Reber
Timothy Reynolds
Dana and Steve Rieger
Robert Riopel
David Robinson
Richard and Judy
Robinson
David Rose
Dennis Roseman
Armstrong Ross
Amanda Rotondo
Lisha Ruud
Carine Ryan
Thomas and Carol Ryan
Sue Sage
Jill and Tom Sampson
Ashley and Keith
Savageau
Peter Sawyer
Suzie Scales
Karen Schiavo
Lauren Schmidt
Herbert and Dick Schulze
Patricia Scott
Andrew Seitz
Cam and Christine Seitz
Cathy Seitz
Jack Seitz
Jessica Seitz
Liz Selph
Gerald Serventi
Maziyar Sharafi
Rob Shattuck
Anne Shelchuk
Sherry Shirkey and William Layne
Mala Singh
Linda Slattery
Ellen Slawsby
Ken and Lisa Smith
Linda Sonner
Amanda Sorvig
Ward and Heidi Sproat
Nicolette St. Angel
James and Lydia Stang
Martha Staskawicz
Claire Sternlicht
Susan and Larry Stieber
Karen Strasilla
Mary Street
Marie Stosz
Michael and Suzanne
Sullivan
Suzanne and Shaun Sullivan
Ariel Sultan
Debbie Sultan
Mennen Supena
Elizabeth Suzuki
TD Women’s 9-holers
Tahoe Donner Men’s
Golf Club
The Tamkins
Heidi Tan
Earl and Tammey Tanner
Stanley Taylor
Nancy and Mark Thomas
Matthew Thomson
Julie Thornton
Aileen Throne
Chester Thuener
Peter Thuener
Whitney Thwaite
Bjorn Tipling
Denise Trani-Morris
Paula Treat
Lorraine Turner
Michael Turner
Jerald Underdahl
Gina Vadnais
Ronald Van De Pol
Christie Vaughan
Joe and Katie Veni
Natalie Viyaran
Janika Vondrak
Bryce Vree
Julie Vree
Brian W
Diane and Bob Wagner
Maria Wamsley and Dave Emanuel
Ali Wanis
Hillis Watren
Garin and Deidre Watson
We Love Eyes
Seth Weidman
Karen Weiseth
Dr. Melissa Welch
Jay and Jeanette
Wertheim
Patricia West
Susan Westgarth
Frances P. White
Rod and Linda Whitten
Jill Williams
Carol Wilson
Kate Winters
Steven Wong
Susan Woodward
Deborah Worley
Cathy Wydner
Hunter Wylie
Julie and Craig Wyreman
Min Yi
James Young
Terry and Doug Young
Judith Zellmer
Rebecca Zellmer
ANONYMOUS
If you donated in 2023 and your name is not listed here, “Anonymous” may have been checked when making your donation. We sincerely thank all anonymous donors.
IN HONOR OF
Diane Campbell
Cedar Casey
Reyna Guzman
Fletch H.
Maeve Moore
Freddy Murray
Yogi Noonen
Ashley Miller Savageau
Sierra Seitz
Noodles Vree
IN MEMORY OF
Christopher Argyris
Bill Beaton
Ella Beller
David De Martini
David DiMartini
Michael Dunne
Lucille Lipson
Copper The Dog Levine
Daniel and Virginia
Mahoney
Sonia Meyerhof
Moose Morris
Bella Scott
Margaret Seitz
Bob Stosz
Jeffrey Thwaite
Hunter Treat-Wms
James D. Townsend
James and Margery
Townsend
Tyler Onderka
TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 23 FOUNDING PARTNER
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is administered as an affiliate fund of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 68-0416404. All contributions are voluntary, irrevocable, and are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee is chartered by the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors to carry out the mission of the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund: to inspire generosity and charitable giving among Tahoe Donner members in order to support deserving programs and youth in the greater Truckee community. Tahoe Donner Giving Fund grants and scholarships are made through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation’s annual review process.
Community Begins at home Fire Safety
By CYNTHIA CENDREDA
U.S. Forest Service records show that in the last 35 years, over 150 fires have burned within a two-mile radius of Tahoe Donner. Defensible space is your property’s frontline of defense against wildfire. Creating and maintaining defensible space around your home can dramatically increase your home’s chance of surviving a wildfire and improve the safety of firefighters defending your property. CAL FIRE statistics show that properties in compliance with defensible space requirements are five times more likely to survive a wildfire.
DEFENSIBLE SPACE IS CRITICAL TO YOUR HOME PROTECTION AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Tahoe Donner is proud to be a certified Firewise community, recognized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for its commitment to fire safety. The Tahoe Donner Forestry Department is intent on helping homeowners bring their properties into compliance with state, local and association fire safety standards as well as in accordance with Tahoe Donner’s Land Management objectives. Clearing excess forest and household debris from properties can mimic fuel reduction zones – areas of strategic thinning of vegetation that help prevent the spread of wildfires – and contribute to ongoing forest restoration efforts that preserve important natural resources and biodiversity in the landscape. Additional information on Tahoe Donner’s defensible space requirements and practices can be found at tahoedonner.com/defensible-space.
Staff will begin inspections as soon as conditions allow in the spring of 2024 to provide the earliest and most accurate information for homeowners who need to complete defensible space maintenance in 2024. Homeowners are encouraged to get a head start by reviewing Tahoe Donner’s requirements at tahoedonner.com/property-requirements
FEATURE
Unit 4: Lots 1-233, Unit 6: Lots 412-640 and All of Unit 11: Lots 1-517. This includes all or portions of the following streets: Skiview Loop, Tyrol Road, Glacier View Drive, Wolfgang Road, Parsenn Road, Pinnacle Loop, Alder Creek Road, Skislope Way, Springbrook Place, Chalet Road, Chateau Way,
Place,
Lane,
Road,
Lane,
2024 Defensible Space Inspection Zones
Chapelle
Swiss
Sun Valley
Lucerne
Cristallina Way, Edelweiss Place
2024 INSPECTION CYCLE
WHAT TO EXPECT WITH INSPECTION NOTICES
Throughout the year, home owners receive inspection notices from the Tahoe Donner Forestry Department notifying them of property maintenance requirements, important deadlines and resources to ensure that proper and effective defensible space can be achieved. The 2023/24 defensible space notice timeline is as follows:
SEPTEMBER 2023
Tahoe Donner News inspection notice and reminder for 2024 program
MARCH 2024
Email reminder for 2024 program
APRIL 2024
Tahoe Donner News inspection notice and reminder
APRIL-JUNE 2024
Forestry staff will visit to inspect properties
MAY-JUNE 2024
Official Notice of Non-Compliance letter with 45 days to correct and FireAside inspection report with maintenance requirements
MAY-AUGUST 2024
Forestry staff are available to meet with property owners or their contractor to discuss the findings detailed in the inspection reports
JULY-AUGUST 2024
Due dates fall within June, July or August
Creating defensible space typically entails the regular removal of dead, decaying and flammable vegetation such as pine needles, excess brush and overly dense trees and limbs that are too close to the ground or structures.
INSPECTION AUTHORITY
Authority for these inspections comes from the state of California Public Resources Code 4291, Truckee Fire Protection District Ordinance 02-2012 and Tahoe Donner Association C&Rs Article VIII, Section1 (a) iii and iv.
How You Will be Notified
As required by the Tahoe Donner C&Rs, the information provided here serves as a written notice that inspections will take place in the spring of 2024, usually between the middle of April through end of June. Inspections will occur between 8AM-5PM. Members whose homes are within the inspection zone will also receive an email stating that their property will be inspected as part of the 2024 program cycle. Inspectors will walk through the property to complete the inspections.
As inspections occur across approximately 1,000 properties, homeowners will receive a letter stating compliance status. Property owners not in compliance will receive a Notice of Non-Compliance along with their FireAside inspection results and defensible space requirements to be completed by an established due date between the end of June and August 2024. Homeowners will be given 45 days to correct any issues or to provide a copy of an agreement with a contractor covering the scope of the work required. Homeowners may request on-site visits with forestry staff who are available to meet with owners or their contractors, however, this should be done after the inspection report is provided to offer the best information possible.
HOME HARDENING REBATE PROGRAM
In addition to defensible space, home hardening is crucial in improving the resilience of your home against the threat of wildfires. Home hardening measures have been found to be effective in reducing ember ignitions on and around structures. Truckee Fire Protection District is now offering rebates of 50% of your home hardening project costs up to $500 to assist homeowners with upgrades.
Priority upgrades eligible for rebates include:
• Vents: Install 1/8"-1/16" metal mesh on vents or install ember/flame-resistant vents
• Tarps: Fully cover your wood pile in an approved fire resistive tarp
• Fences: Replace 5 feet of fencing closest to house with non-combustible materials such as metal
• Eaves: Box in eaves with ignition-resistant or noncombustible materials
• Windows: Replace single-pane with multi-pane, tempered glass windows
To see if your home may qualify for a rebate or to apply, visit their website at truckeefire.org/hardenyourhome. For additional information on steps to take to harden your home against ember ignitions visit tahoedonner.com/home-hardening
TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 25
CHIPPING PROGRAM ALERT
All Requests Must be Made via Truckee Fire Protection District
Streetside chipping service in Tahoe Donner will now be managed by Truckee Fire Protection District through Measure T funding. The Tahoe Donner Forestry Department will no longer pick up piles eligible for chipping. Tahoe Donner residents must request green waste pick-up online via truckeefire.org/greenwaste
Truckee Fire is committed to supporting property owners’ defensible space maintenance by offering disposal options for eligible debris. A list of eligible green waste materials and pile requirements can also be found online at truckeefire.org/greenwaste
MEASURE T FUNDS CONTINUE TO BENEFIT TAHOE DONNER
Thanks to Measure T Funds that allow the Truckee Fire Protection District to manage the chipping program, homeowners will benefit from a more streamlined process and a longer window for green waste pick-up. Additionally, the Tahoe Donner Forestry Department will reallocate its resources to further its efforts on the continued maintenance of common areas and fuel breaks.
CHIPPING PROGRAM CYCLE
DEFENSIBLE SPACE INSPECTIONS
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
STEP 5
Homeowners receive defensible space inspection reports.
DEFENSIBLE SPACE MAINTENANCE
Based on their inspection results, homeowners must remove dead, decaying and flammable vegetation and debris such as pine needles, excess brush and overly dense trees and limbs that are too close to the ground or structures.
REQUEST GREEN WASTE PICK-UP
Once flammable vegetation and debris have been stacked appropriately streetside, homeowners must request green waste pick-up via Truckee Fire Protection District. Truckee Fire will handle all streetside green waste removal.
TRUCKEE FIRE RETURNS GREEN WASTE TO TAHOE DONNER
Once eligible green waste piles are picked up, the material is staged for Tahoe Donner to dispose of. The material is ground into wood chips and sold to a biomass facility.
CONTINUED DEFENSIBLE SPACE MAINTENANCE
As the Truckee Fire Protection District supports the community’s green waste disposal efforts, homeowners should check their properties for defensible space maintenance several times each year. Issues like pine needle accumulation on roofs and around homes should be addressed several times every fire season.
FEATURE
WEEKDAYS 12PM-8PM
WEEKENDS 10AM-8PM
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE IT
DROP IN FOR A DAY SESH.
There’s so many ways to play at Woodward Tahoe. Whether you want to head inside The Bunker or shred outdoors, there’s an option for you! Come skate, bmx, scooter, or ip around at Lake Tahoe’s Action Sports Hub. We also offer lift operated mountain bike trails starting in June!
WOODWARDTAHOE.COM
BRIEFS
TAHOE DONNER NEW GENERAL MANAGER MEET + GREET
Please join the Tahoe Donner leadership team in congratulating Annie Rosenfeld on her recent appointment as the new General Manager of Tahoe Donner. On Sunday, April 14, from 12-2PM, members are invited for a General Manager Meet and Greet at the Alder Creek Adventure Center as a special event in conjunction with TDXC’s closing day festivities. Enjoy live music, appetizers and a celebratory toast to the future while connecting with Annie and fellow leaders of Tahoe Donner.
When: Sunday, April 14 | 12-2PM Where: Alder Creek Adventure Center
TEMPORARY CHANGE TO MEMBER SERVICES HOURS
Starting Sunday, April 14 through May 19, the Member Services office located in the Northwoods Clubhouse will be closed on Sundays. Member Services will return to normal seven-day-a-week operations beginning Sunday, May 26.
BOAT + TRAILER STORAGE
APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE
APRIL 1-15
Tahoe Donner offers boat, trailer and RV storage (29-foot maximum) for Tahoe Donner members. Storage is available for the season, from May 1 through Sept. 30 (conditions permitting), and is not for shortterm or weekend accommodation. Only
members in good standing may apply for and rent storage space.
Requirements for a
“Complete” Application:
• Current registration of the vehicle or boat
• Insurance limits of $300,000 in combined liability
• Tahoe Donner listed as a certificate holder on insurance
• Storage fee paid in full
2024 Storage Fee: $415
Location: 10805 Ski Slope Way
Application Link: tahoedonner.com/boat-and-trailer-storage
One spot per property. Once all complete applications have been submitted, a lottery will be conducted to determine who will receive a spot. Refunds will be issued to anyone who does not get a spot.
For additional information and questions, please contact Member Services via email info@tahoedonner.com or phone at (530) 587-9400 ext. 0.
LEARN HOW TO RUN FOR LOCAL OFFICE AT AN UPCOMING WORKSHOP
Join the Truckee Chamber of Commerce and the Contractors Association of Truckee Tahoe for a free “How to Run for Office Workshop” at the Lift Workspace on Wednesday, April 17, from 12-4PM. This four-hour workshop will help to demystify the running process for local office, including:
• How to pull papers
• The process for getting on the ballot
• How to create a campaign marketing strategy
• What it means to manage campaign finance
• Hear from a panel of current and former elected officials
• And more!
Make a difference in our community by joining one of Truckee’s many elected positions. Space is limited; RSVP today for the workshop at truckee.com
EIGHTH ANNUAL WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL
Join Mountain Area Preservation’s (MAP) eighth annual Wild and Scenic Film Festival – on tour in Truckee-Tahoe April 19 and 20. In celebration of Earth Month 2024, MAP is excited to share the nation's premier environmental film festival with the community with two days of events featuring awe-inspiring environmental, adventure, social justice and youthspecific programming:
Friday, April 19 | 6-9PM
Enjoy MAP’s custom film program at the Community Arts Center in historic downtown Truckee. Tickets on sale now for this evening event.
Saturday, April 20 | 11-5PM
Bring the whole family for the Wild Child Kids’ program, a free film event at the Truckee-Tahoe Earth Day Festival in the Village at Palisades.
For additional info and to purchase tickets, visit mountainareapreservation.org/wsff.
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE TAHOE DONNER AMENITIES
The Sierra Sun’s Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee is back! Vote for your favorite Tahoe Donner amenities for 2024, May 3-12, at sierrasun.com/best. Categories that currently include TD amenities are:
• Best Family Fun Place – Downhill Ski Resort
• Best Fine Dining – The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
• Kid-Friendly Restaurant – Pizza on the Hill
THE REPORT
• Best Pizza – Pizza on the Hill
• Best Restaurant/Truckee – The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
• Best Steak – The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
• Best Bike Shop – Bikeworks
• Best Camping – Tahoe Donner Campground
• Best Golf Course – Tahoe Donner Golf Course
• Best Ski Resort – Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center
Don’t miss your chance to support all your favorite Tahoe Donner amenities! Winners will be announced on July 5.
SIGN UP FOR TAHOE DONNER TEXT ALERTS
BE IN THE KNOW WITH TIMELY SAFETY MESSAGING, INCLUDING NOTES ABOUT FIRE SAFETY + EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
SIGN UP AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/SUBSCRIBE
HOMES ON THE RISE
The Architectural Standards Committee did not review any plans in February 2024.
COVENANTS VIOLATION HEARINGS
The Covenants Committee held the following violations hearings in February 2024.
STREET VIOLATION FINE
Saint Croix Storage Violation $400 Way
Bennet Flat Garbage Violation $400 Road
Gyrfalcon Exterior Light $400 Street Pollution Violation
Go to tahoedonner.com/covenants to view covenants rules and how to make a covenants complaint.
STAY IN THE KNOW. SIGN UP FOR WEEKLY EMAILS: TAHOEDONNER.COM/SUBSCRIBE
TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS
Area Code (530)
MEMBER SERVICES
587-9400 | info@tahoedonner.com | Live chat on website
AMENITIES
Beach Club Marina 587-9460 marina@tahoedonner.com
Bikeworks 582-9694 bikeworks@tahoedonner.com
Campground 587-9462 campground@tahoedonner.com
Cross Country Ski Ctr 587-9484 xc@tahoedonner.com
Downhill Ski Resort 587-9444 skireservations@tahoedonner.com
Equestrian Center 587-9470 equestrian@tahoedonner.com
Forestry 587-9432 forestry@tahoedonner.com
Golf Course 587-9443 golf@tahoedonner.com
The Lodge 587-9455 lodge@tahoedonner.com
Recreation Hut 587-9413 recreation@tahoedonner.com
Snowplay 587-9400 snowplay@tahoedonner.com
Tennis Center 587-9474 tennis@tahoedonner.com
Trails 582-9672 trails@tahoedonner.com
Trout Creek Rec Ctr 587-9437 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com
ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Architectural Standards
Rod Whitten aso@tahoedonner.com
Covenants
Evan Beller covenantscommittee@ tahoedonner.com
Elections
Steve Meyers electionscommittee@ tahoedonner.com
Finance
Cathy Ravano financecommittee@ tahoedonner.com
Giving Fund Nan Meek tdgf@tahoedonner.com
Long-Range Planning Dan Simmons lrpc@tahoedonner.com
Trails and Open Space Peter Sawyer tos@tahoedonner.com
ASSOCIATION CHARTERED CLUB PRESIDENTS
4-Wheelers
Tim West club@td4wheelers.org
9-Holers Women's Golf Debi Lorraine debi.lorraine@gmail.com
American Mah Jongg Dori Schick doridans@hotmail.com
Equestrian Susan Terrell terrellsf@earthlink.net
Hiking Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net
Junior Golf
Jean Lai jslai@comcast.net
Karate Suz Field IKLdojo.TD@gmail.com
Limited Abilities Persons’ Golf Mike Srago msrago@comcast.net
Men’s Golf Corey Leibow cleibow1@gmail.com
Mountain Bike Dustin Young dustinyoung75@gmail.com
Quilt Odette Turmel odette.turmel@gmail.com
Rowing Val Brinker vbrinker@dicksonrealty.com
Running Scott Bauhs info@tdrunclub.com
Senior Alpine Ski Stephen O’Brien stephob@comcast.net
Tennis/Pickle Ian Mindell tennis@tahoedonner.com
Women’s Golf Martha Gilbertson gilbertson34@gmail.com
MEMBER FEEDBACK
Help improve the overall association. Submit your comments and concerns via our online form on the member portal or at tahoedonner.com/feedback
TAHOE DONNER NEWS | 29
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BOARD MEETING RECAPS
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING: 2024 ELECTIONS TIMELINE
February 13, 2024
2024 Elections Timeline
The board reviewed and approved the 2024 Board of Directors Election Timeline. Motion passed 4-0.
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING: AMENITY ACCESS POLICY MEMBER FORUM
February 15, 2024
Amenity Access Policy Update
Staff led a member forum for members to provide feedback through Menti polling about the Amenity Access Policy guest and tenant considerations.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
February 23, 2024
Consent Calendar
The board approved the Consent Calendar. Motion passed 4-0 (Director Mahoney absent).
Committee/Task Force Reports
The board received these items as information.
Committee 2024 Annual Task Lists
The board received a presentation on 2024 Annual Task Lists and approved the Finance Committee’s list. Motion passed 4-0.
The board also approved adding the following to all Committee 2024 Annual Task Lists:
1. Committee leadership succession planning
2. Committee member recruiting planning Motion passed 4-0.
Management Update
The board received a presentation on summer operations registration, winter operations and chipping program changes.
2023 Member Survey Results
The board received a presentation on the 2023 Member Survey results.
Glacier Way Trailhead Improvement
The board received a presentation on the Glacier Way Trailhead design development.
Capital Funds Policy Update
The board reviewed updates to the Ad Hoc Committee’s work on the Capital Policies Update.
The board rescinded both Dec. 15, 2023, Capital Policy Update motions and approved the following:
1. Direct staff to complete work on Objective C1 (Capital Policies Update) of the 2024 Annual Strategic Objectives.
2. Direct staff to involve individual board members, committees, individual committee members, and other Association members with relevant experience and/or expertise to assist with the completion of its work.
3. Direct staff to present periodic capital policy drafts and reports to the Board of Directors to obtain feedback and further direction.
4. Establish the following milestones:
a. March: Board consideration of policy update goals and parameters.
b. April: Initial draft board feedback.
c. May: Additional draft board feedback.
Final board approval for updated capital policies will occur in late May or Early June.
UPCOMING BOARD MEETINGS
Tuesday, April 9, 2024 – Special Board Meeting: Amenity Access Policy
Friday, April 26, 2024 – Regular Board Meeting
Friday, May 24, 2024 – Regular Board Meeting
Friday, June 28, 2024 – Regular Board Meeting + Election Ballot Meeting
Sunday, June 30, 2024 – Annual Meeting of Members + Member Picnic Board meeting dates subject to change. Visit tahoedonner.com for dates.
UPCOMING COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Monday, April 2, 2024 – Elections
Wednesday, April 3, 2024 – Trails + Open Space
Monday, April 8, 2024 – Giving Fund
Thursday, April 11, 2024 – Long-Range Planning
Monday, April 15, 2024 – Elections
Wednesday, April 17, 2024 – Architectural Standards
Thursday, April 18, 2024 – Finance
Thursday, April 25, 2024 – Covenants
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 – Trails + Open Space
To get meeting details, including Zoom meeting registration information and time, please send an email to executiveassistant@tahoedonner.com
THE REPORT Go to tahoedonner.com/boardmeetingdocs to see presentations and video recordings of past meetings. To provide feedback to help improve the overall association, please submit your comments and concerns at tahoedonner.com/feedback
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LAGUARDIA, SPAIN
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Doug and Elisabeth Weiss visited the Republic of Ireland and snapped this photo at Black Mountain near the border of Northern Ireland.
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info@dicksonrealty.com | CA DRE#01417710 Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Instagram | Follow us on LinkedIn Downtown Reno 775-324-7000 Caughlin Ranch 775-746-7000 Damonte Ranch 775-850-7000 Somersett 775-746-7222 Montrêux 775-849-9444 Sparks 775-685-8800 Incline Village 775-831-6600 Truckee 530-587-7444 Portola 530-832-1700 Northstar 530-562-1140 Carson City 775-882-6300 Gardnerville 775-882-6300 DicksonRealty.com MARKET STATISTICS tahoe donner 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 0 300000 600000 900000 1200000 1500000 $1,185,625 $1,092,500 $1,202,500 $1,025,000 $1,157,500 $1,116,094 Active Listings Sold Listings ACTIVE & SOLD LISTINGS Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 0 300000 $1,185,625 $1,092,500 $1,202,500 $1,025,000 $1,157,500 $1,116,094 DAYS ON MARKET Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 0 300000 600000 900000 1200000 1500000 $1,185,625 $1,092,500 $1,202,500 $1,025,000 $1,157,500 $1,116,094 MEDIAN SALES PRICE Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb $1,155,000 Median Sale Price 108 Properties Sold 36 Average Days On Market 18 Available Listings Source: TSMLS Area 9TD, SFH, 9/1/23 - 3/1/24 TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION 11509 NORTHWOODS BLVD. TRUCKEE, CA 96161 info@dicksonrealty.com | CA DRE#01417710 Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Instagram | Follow us on LinkedIn Downtown Reno 775-324-7000 Caughlin Ranch 775-746-7000 Damonte Ranch 775-850-7000 Somersett 775-746-7222 Montrêux 775-849-9444 Sparks 775-685-8800 Incline Village 775-831-6600 Truckee 530-587-7444 Portola 530-832-1700 Northstar 530-562-1140 Carson City 775-882-6300 Gardnerville 775-882-6300 DicksonRealty.com MARKET STATISTICS tahoe donner 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 0 300000 600000 900000 1200000 1500000 $1,185,625 $1,092,500 $1,202,500 $1,025,000 $1,157,500 $1,116,094 Active Listings Sold Listings ACTIVE & SOLD LISTINGS Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 0 300000 $1,185,625 $1,092,500 $1,202,500 $1,025,000 $1,157,500 $1,116,094 DAYS ON MARKET Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 0 300000 600000 900000 1200000 1500000 $1,185,625 $1,092,500 $1,202,500 $1,025,000 $1,157,500 $1,116,094 MEDIAN SALES PRICE Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb $1,155,000 Median Sale Price 108 Properties Sold 36 Average Days On Market 18 Available Listings Source: TSMLS Area 9TD, SFH, 9/1/23 - 3/1/24