Tahoe Donner News August 2017

NEWS

OBSERVE THE MAGIC OF THE STARRY NIGHT SKY

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TAHOE DONNER WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS P8

AUGUST 2017

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CELESTIAL WONDERS Participate in Tahoe Donner's new stargazing workshops, and mark your calendar for upcoming celestial events.

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SUMMER FOOD & BEVERAGE ciation. Get them now before summer ends!

BUDGET TIMELINE Get up to speed on the annual budget process and timeframe.

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and they are eco-friendly too!

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Cap Projects Update A new monthly feature with updates

New Board Members Meet Jeff Connors, Jennifer Jennings

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Let's Get Together Your source for TD events and specials

Letters to the Editor New! Letters to be printed in TD News

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TD Giving Fund Bike Park: Making magic with dirt

Tips from the Pros Monthly golf and tennis tips

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Board Meeting Review the June board meetings

Summer Activities Get out and enjoy before it's too late

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Monthly Calendar Don’t miss our August events

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NEW SUMMER TRAIL MAPS

TAKE NOTE

President's Message Thoughts from our new board president

Must-try menu items from around the asso-

Our maps are brand new, more functional,

DEPARTMENTS

Where in the World is TD News?

TD News travels the world

Cal Fire New remote station in Tahoe Donner Photo Contest Grab your camera (or phone)!

Drone Usage Read up on Tahoe Donner's drone usage rules

P26 COVER PHOTO: KYLE KELLY

tahoedonner.com |

1

VOL. 18, NO. 08

WELCOME

AUGUST 2017 EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION STAFF Gretchen Sproehnle Ashley Quadros Derek Moore Kyle Kelly Drew Deurlington

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Jeff Connors, jconnors@tahoedonner.com

Vice President

Jeff Schwerdtfeger, jschwerdtfeger@tahoedonner.com

Treasurer

Jeff Connors, Tahoe

Jeff Bonzon, jbonzon@tahoedonner.com

Donner's new board

Secretary

Jennifer Jennings, jjennings@tahoedonner.com

president

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Director

Darius Brooks, dbrooks@tahoedonner.com

Board of Directors

board@tahoedonner.com

As I begin this very first message to the

and economic interests. Some of us are newer

Postmaster

collective membership of Tahoe Donner, I

to our careers, others fairly well established,

Send address changes to Tahoe Donner

am humbled by your overwhelming support

and some are retired and enjoying the fruits

during the recent election and wish to express

of many years of hard work. Many of us call

my deepest and most sincere thanks for choos-

Tahoe Donner our second home as a place

ing me to represent you on the board. I am

to enjoy the mountain environment during a

also confident that this is true of my colleague,

weekend retreat, while for another growing

Jennifer Jennings, who won the second open

segment, Tahoe Donner represents home with

board position. In this spirit I also want to

all of the normal day-to-day living activities.

extend a special thanks to the other three

Some of us are focused on amenities like open

candidates who stepped up and look forward

space; others focus on tennis, the golf course

to their continued involvement. I am also

or the equestrian and cross country centers,

News, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161; 530-587-9400, Fax 530-587-9419

Email

comdep@tahoedonner.com

Advertising Sales Creative Concepts Media + Marketing is the exclusive advertising representative; phone 530-582-4100.

Publishing Information Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive

honored that the board chose me to be the

to name a few, while others just like the peace

unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an

president of the association/board and to help

and quiet and have little use for the amenities.

infringement of that service mark right and

guide its actions over the next twelve months.

It is within this diverse environment that we

I intend to move quickly to bring about a

are actually united and are brought together

ment or recommendation by Tahoe Donner

greater level of membership involvement

in a common bond where we see Tahoe

Association or its board of directors of the

and board transparency, while ensuring that

Donner as a vibrant and desirable mountain

products, services, or views contained therein.

Tahoe Donner continues to be an affordable

community, providing both attractive and

association focused on the needs and wants of

maintained facilities and offering events and

its membership.

programs with good customer service and

service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any

is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorse-

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

Tahoe Donner is a large scale HOA (one of the largest in the United States) and importantly a high quality, family-friendly commu-

member focus while maintaining accessible and attractive surroundings.

Your new board is actively engaging in

nity. We are not and don’t intend to be like

a variety of activities to ensure this bond

publication is offset by advertising revenues.

the significantly smaller gated communities

continues to be a reality for our association.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and

where assessments start in the $6,000-plus

At our brief kickoff meeting we elected Jeff

range and reach well over $12,000 annually.

Schwerdtfeger as your vice president and he

section of tahoedonner.com, where publishing

Instead we are a diverse group of members

will continue as the board liaison for Architec-

guidelines are available.

with varied, and sometimes competing, inter-

tural Standards; Jeff Bonzon as your treasurer (Continued on p. 4)

each. Cost to produce and distribute this

additional mailing offices. Member letters to Tahoe Donner are published in the Members

ests who come from a wide range of social

2

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

August

F R I DAY S

FOR ADDITIONAL AUGUST EVENTS SEE

LET’S GET TOGETHER ON PAGE 10 FREE FRIDAY TASTINGS

Join us each Friday at Trailside Bar for a free beer and wine tasting from 3–6 p.m.

See page 14.

AU G U S T 5

SIERRA CREST RUN

It’s a scenic 50k, 30k or 15k singletrack run from Tahoe Donner to Donner Summit. Volunteers still needed. See page 12.

AU G U S T 11

TIME FOR TENNIS CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Sign up your team for a fun and competitive game of cornhole. Winners take home prizes!

See page 14.

AU G U S T 12

CARDBOARD REGATTA

Construct a boat out of cardboard and race from the Beach Club boat launch to the buoy and back! See page 10.

Since 1972, the Tahoe Donner Tennis Center has been the place to swing into summer fun. Check out some of the events happening this month on pages 11 and 12!

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

AU G U S T 17

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Join us from 6:30–9 p.m. for a fun-filled musical evening on the third Thursday of each month. See page 14.

AU G U S T 2 6

PANCAKES AND PONIES

Enjoy a hearty pancake breakfast with all the fixings, followed by a pony ride! See page 11.

tahoedonner.com |

3

(Continued from p. 2) who will also be the board liaison for the finance committee; Jennifer

used to be part of this magazine. We will explore expanding Next Door

Jennings as your board secretary who will have board oversight for the

as a channel of communication given its current base of about 2,000

covenants committee working on the newly developing and updated

members by providing, as appropriate, further clarity on our policies in

covenants and restrictions (C&Rs) and Darius Brooks as your direc-

response to member inquiries. We will discuss revising board meetings

tor-at-large who will have board oversight for the very valuable and

so as to eliminate the executive session that splits the board meeting

important Giving Fund and become further involved with building our

into two parts causing a loss of participation, consider the introduction

Town of Truckee relationship and overall influence. In addition to my

of an association blog and discuss posting board materials earlier than

role as president, I will be working with the general plan committee on

four days in advance and releasing draft board minutes earlier than 16

the newly developing association master plan. Moving forward, your

days after the meeting. We will also be discussing the formation of on-

board will soon be addressing a wide variety of important member

and off-hill advisory committees and developing more integrated and

issues focused on board transparency in all that we do, Architectural

responsive online member surveys so that your voices are always heard.

Standards, the issue of public versus private amenities usage and costs,

In summary, all of us strongly believe that this board works for its

the upcoming revisions to our C&Rs, the new longer range association

members and represents their collective thinking. It tasks management

master plan that is nearing completion and will soon be released for a

with the planning and successful execution of those related objec-

final review by our members, clubs and committees before the board

tives in an efficient, effective, and quality manner. Your participation

receives it for a vote later this year. In addition we will, as the budgeting

is always, always welcome and we want to see many new faces on our

season approaches, take a more comprehensive look at how we spend

very important committees and task forces. If you have some interests,

your annual assessment and all that it entails along with exploring the

please contact any one of the five board members by sending an email to

amount of expenditures that the board should authorize before involv-

board@tahoedonner.com (or the first initial and last name of the board

ing the full membership, completing the external compensation study

member, for example jconnors@tahoe donner.com) and we will get you

focused on our most senior employees along with many other topics of

involved. We encourage your participation and appreciate hearing from

interest to you, the member.

you and will fully listen to all your suggestions, thoughts and overall

As this board session begins, we also want to ensure the highest level of communication with, from and between our members through whatever communications channel you are most comfortable utilizing.

In this spirit, we are looking at bringing back letters to the editor that

ideas that would ensure Tahoe Donner continues to be the wonderful member-centric place that it is.

Thanks once again!!

JEFF CONNORS | BOARD PRESIDENT

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| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

JOHN BIEBL

CalBRE# 01220758

ANNA MCGEE

CalBRE# 01947697

©2017 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company and Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office is Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. This information was supplied by Seller and/or other sources.

Broker has not and will not verify this information and assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyers should investigate these issues to their own satisfaction. Real Estate Licensees affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are Independent Contractor Sales Associates and are not employees of NRT LLC., Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC or Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. CalBRE License #01908304.

TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS Member Services 587-9400 info@tahoedonner.com General Manager 587-9431 gm@tahoedonner.com Contact Member Services to be transferred to other departments.

Amenities Beach Club Marina 587-9460 marina@tahoedonner.com Bikeworks 582-9694 bikeworks@tahoedonner.com Cross Country Ski Area 587-9484 xc@tahoedonner.com Downhill Ski Area 587-9444 ski@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 Pizza On The Hill 582-9669 pizza@tahoedonner.com Recreation Info Hut 587-9413 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Campground 587-9462 campground@ tahoedonner.com Tennis Center 587-9474 tennis@tahoedonner.com Trails 582-9672 trails@tahoedonner.com Trout Creek Rec. Center 587-9437 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Association Committee Chairs Architectural Standards, Rod Whitten aso@tahoedonner.com Covenants, Fred Zapponi fzapponi@tahoedonner.com Elections, Bette Rohrback truckeebette@yahoo.com Finance, Art King aiking156@att.net General Plan, Michael Sullivan iceman40@mac.com Giving Fund Chairman, Dick Gander tdgf@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Association Chartered Club Presidents Bridge Club, Pat Callahan mrscallahan36@gmail.com Friends of TD Trails, B.R. Levine tdtrails@gmail.com Rowing Club, Dot Mace dotmace@me.com Senior Alpine Ski, Michael Eyton-Lloyd hmsmike1@aol.com Tennis, Michele Forsberg minkeysf@sbcglobal.net 9-Holers, Lynette Powell lynette.powell@sbcglobal.net Men’s Golf, Patrick Gemma patgemma1@att.net Women’s Golf, Bettye Carmichael ibboop@suddenlink.net Hiking Club, Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net Quilt Club, Linda Brush sewlinda@aol.com Junior Golf Club, Jean Lai jslai@comcast.net TD 4-Wheelers Club, Bill Ratcliff club@td4wheelers.org Equestrian Club, Susan Terrell terrellsf@earthlink.net

PHOTO: TOM LIPPERT; PILOT: LAUREL LIPPERT

Member Communications (area code 530)

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It’s why we fly here.

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5

ASSOCIATION NEWS

Capital Projects: What's going on in Tahoe Donner?

IDEA DEVELOPMENT

PROJECT SELECTION

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN

FINAL DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION

POST-PROJECT REVIEW

ASSOCIATION MASTER PLAN

DOWNHILL SKI AREA STUDY

The final General Plan Committee (GPC) report

The task force completed its consulting request for

was submitted to the board at their last meet-

proposal (RFP) event in June. An active engage-

ing. The board decided to postpone discussion of

ment process in July and August will result in

approval until the new board is in place.

Ecosign delivering its (80 percent) draft review to

STATUS: CONSTRUCTION

the GPC on September 11. Additional components of the project being worked are parking, prioritiz-

ALDER CREEK ADVENTURE CENTER STORAGE This project was designed to be secure storage.

Construction is now is 100 percent complete and was signed off by the building department on July 7, 2017. STATUS: POST PROJECT REVIEW

ing the Snowbird chair, communication, and a capital funds projection.

STATUS: CONCEPTUAL DESIGN

EMPLOYEE HOUSING The task force has re-focused its efforts on clarifying the need for seasonal employee housing by gathering metrics to define the problem that Tahoe Donner employee housing would solve. In

CLUSTER MAILBOX CONSOLIDATION Options for the number of mailboxes and mailbox locations have been identified, as have preliminary

the interim, Tahoe Donner will continue to lease property to house seasonal employees.

STATUS: PROJECT SELECTION

estimated costs and funding scenarios. Next steps

EQUESTRIAN CENTER RELOCATION

are board liaison, a Town Hall meeting, an article

Phase 3 of the relocation necessitated by the con-

in Tahoe Donner News and further coordination

struction of Alder Creek Adventure Center is on

with the U.S. Postal Service. STATUS: PROJECT SELECTION

hold pending approval of the association master plan and funding approval in the budget cycle this

COMMUNICATIONS Communications support for active projects continues. Improved communications includes this new format to replace the “Capital Projects at a Glance” chart in Tahoe Donner News, and a monthly eblast to members who wish to receive more detailed information on capital projects (see box to right, on next page). STATUS: CONSTRUCTION

fall (see page 25 for more on the budget timeline).

Nevada County extended the plans and open permit until June 18, 2018, and emphasized the importance of installing Americans with Disabilities Act parking and walkways as soon as possible. STATUS: FINAL DESIGN

TROUT CREEK SPACE REALLOCATION The task force has commissioned architectural and consultant drawings for construction cost estimat-

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EACH PROJECT

ing and agency permits for this phased construc-

IN THE CAPITAL PROJECTS PROCESS, GO TO:

tion approach to optimizing operations, improving

WWW.TAHOEDONNER.COM/ACTIVE-PROJECTS

6

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

accessibility and member satisfaction. Member communications are ongoing. STATUS: FINAL DESIGN

BULLETIN BOARD

NEW! CAPITAL PROJECTS UPDATE, A MONTHLY E-BLAST OPT IN AND WIN A $100 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO THE LODGE! To make it easier to find out what’s happening with projects in the capital projects process, a new monthly e-blast is being developed: Capital Projects Update. It will

CALFIRE REMOTE AUTOMATED WEATHER STATION (RAWS)

include an overview of the current work in progress with each project’s General Plan

In 2015 Tahoe Donner authorized CalFire

regarding location, and data share and collec-

Committee (GPC) task force, meeting min-

to install a temporary weather station to

tion to be made available to the public. The

utes, project information papers, decision

assist in improved fire forecasting increasing

board was in support of the long-term instal-

papers, board decisions and more. It will

data collection points as a result of the severe

lation request and directed staff to work with

also include a direct link to the page on

drought years. CalFire identified a location on

CalFire to come back to the board of directors

the Tahoe Donner website where you will

the western ridge of Tahoe Donner property

with final details at a later date.

find all the relevant documents. No more

off of Glacier Way trail area.

searching; now you will have instant access to the latest news and updates delivered right to your inbox!

How will you receive the Capital Projects Update e-blast? Keep an eye on your email inbox, because if Tahoe Donner has your email on file, you’ll be receiving an email asking if you wish to opt-in to receive the monthly e-blast. If you do, then reply to the email as directed. If you don’t, then do nothing. You will only be sent the e-blast if you opt in.

Of those who opt in, three lucky individuals will be eligible to win a gift certificate to The Lodge for $100. One winner will be drawn at random from all subscribers in August, September, and October.

What if you change your mind about receiving, or not receiving, this e-blast?

Simply let us know – through Member Services, by email or by phone. You can

Discussion and consideration of the final

In the summer of 2016, CalFire indicated

request is anticipated to come before the board

their desire to locate a more permanent

this August. In the meantime, the temporary

weather station through a long-term license

station continues to gather valuable weather

agreement after analysis of the initial weather

data to aid in fire forecasting for the area.

data thus far collected at the temporary

For any questions regarding the

location. CalFire’s request includes install of

weather station, interested members can

a similar station with wood fencing around

email Annie Rosenfeld, Director of Risk Man-

it. The board of directors heard this request

agement and Real Property, at arosenfeld@

through Tahoe Donner staff at the August

tahoedonner.com.

2016 board meeting and provided feedback

serving truckee and tahoe-donner for over 25 years

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• exterior

• new construction

• home restoration

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also opt in at tahoedonner.com/subscribe, or opt out at any time by following the link at the bottom of the email.

We’re looking forward to sending the Capital Projects Update e-blast to members who want to know more about what’s happening with the capital projects process at Tahoe Donner. For questions, email gpc@tahoedonner.com.

2017

ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST

The Tahoe Donner photo contest is still going on!

Members are encouraged to submit their photos—the three categories are Action, Nature, and People—before the Sunday, September 3, 2017 deadline. You could win a $50 gift certificate to the Lodge Restaurant & Pub! Go to www.tahoedonner.com/photo-contest for full contest details.

tahoedonner.com |

7

ASSOCIATION NEWS

TAHOE DONNER WELCOMES JEFF CONNORS AND JENNIFER JENNINGS TO OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS Donner and saw areas in which the member-

JEFF CONNORS

ship could be better served.

Jeff Connors grew up on Long Island in a

Summarily, it is Connors’ strong belief that

close family that consisted of six boys and two

the board works for the members. “It relies

girls. As the third child, he fondly remembers

on a competent and knowledgeable Tahoe

living in what he calls “organized chaos” with

Donner staff that tactically executes the

his seven siblings, and having to negotiate

board’s key goals and objectives, which should

through a variety of issues given the 23-year

lead to an end result that exceeds member

age spread of the clan. He left the roost to

expectations,” Connors explains. In parallel

attend college in Minnesota, completing his

with this approach, he says he holds a macro

degree in three years, after which he went

belief that Tahoe Donner—unlike the smaller,

back home to earn an MBA and a Master of

significantly more expensive gated commu-

Science degree at Long Island University,

nities—has scale with its 6,500 homes, and if

where he also taught in the MBA program.

While working toward his doctorate he was introduced to JP Morgan Chase, and began a 26-year journey that would lead him to live in many U.S. cities and countries worldwide.

“You learn from both living in a large family and culturally different cities and societies that the world is comprised of many gray areas and differing perspectives,” Connors said.

“I realized that it’s necessary to creatively develop solutions in which all parties—large and small—feel a sense of accomplishment and progress.”

Connors and his wife Tracie, a headhunter with Amazon, have three grown children

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| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

properly leveraged, can always be an affordand one grandchild and moved from Boston,

able HOA with a variety of desirable fami-

Massachusetts to Livermore, California in

ly-oriented amenities. As stated in his can-

2006. The couple met while skiing in Chamo-

didate statement, his goals include ensuring

nix, France, and the avid skiers and mountain

that Tahoe Donner is focused on 1) the needs

lovers soon found their way to Truckee and

of its members, 2) managing its financial and

Tahoe Donner, where they’ve had a second

environmental resources in an effective and

home for the past nine years. Early on, their

efficient quality manner so that Tahoe Donner

focus was almost exclusively on enjoying the

remains affordable, and 3) being a transparent

mountains with family and friends during

association to the diverse social and economic

weekends and holidays; like many second

constituencies that it serves.

homeowners, their time was very limited

“I am looking forward to being part of a

given family demands and business com-

dynamic and involved board that ensures

mitments. Slowly, however, Connors found

Tahoe Donner will continue to flourish in the

himself getting further involved with Tahoe

years ahead.”

JENNIFER JENNINGS Jennifer Jennings has been a Tahoe Donner homeowner for six years, and has lived here full-time for four years. Jennings and her husband, Michael Bledsoe, bought their Tahoe Donner house after the last big winter in 2011, a house that was on the market most likely because of its challenging driveway in the winter. They survived last winter – barely.

Jennings is a second generation Northern Californian who was raised in Orangevale, a small community near Folsom. She graduated

Mt. Rose as well as a river guide.

Jennings and her husband take advantage

ship – soliciting input during every step of the decision-making process.”

of most everything Tahoe Donner has to offer.

Jennings also wants Tahoe Donner to

"We especially enjoy hiking the Tahoe Donner

become more engaged with the broader

trails and skiing into the Euer Valley," Jen-

Truckee community. Until her election to

nings said. "We are frequent users of the gym

the board, Jennings served on the the Tahoe

at Trout Creek. We feel fortunate to live here."

Donner Giving Fund, the committee focused

Ever the activist, Jennings’ love of Tahoe

on that mission. The Giving Fund provides

Donner and her community spirit drove her

scholarships to needy students and grants to

to run for the board. “I respect what has been

community organizations (see below).

achieved here and I want to be part of making it better. We need to focus on the members’

“I helped review the students’ scholarship applications; it was at once heartbreaking and

from the University of California, Davis with a

inspiring. There is so much need and so much

degree in political science. She put her degree

potential in our local young people,” Jen-

to immediate use by becoming one of the lead-

nings said, urging fellow members to consider

ers of Friends of the River, at the time a new

donating and supporting the Giving Fund’s

environmental organization dedicated to the

annual events.

preservation of California’s rivers. Testifying before Congress and lobbying the California

TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND

Legislature was a baptism by fire.

As a young activist in the relatively new environmental movement, Jennings went to U.C. Berkeley law school when she grew tired

SAVE THE DATE!

of being told that the law did not protect our

ANNUAL DINNER

environment. That began a 25-year career working for environmental organizations

OCT. 14

and public agencies, plus a five-year stint in criminal law. Upon their retirement, Jennings and Bledsoe decided to leave Sacramento and make Tahoe Donner their home. They are happy that their children (20-somethings) also live in the area. You may come across their daughter, Claire, who works as a scribe in Tahoe Forest Hospital’s emergency room, and their son, Charlie, who is a ski patroller at

Come to the Giving Fund’s annual priorities for Tahoe Donner,” Jennings explains. “There is much talent, knowledge and experience in the membership; the association needs to tap that resource more.

Tahoe Donner needs to be more effective and timely in communicating with the member-

dinner on Saturday, Oct. 14.

There will be numerous silent auction items, so bring your checkbook.

For a related article on the Giving Fund, see page 17.

tahoedonner.com |

9

Cardboard Regatta, Aug. 12 The funniest event of the season comes your way this August. The Cardboard Regatta sets

N E DO

B I K E WO RE

N TA

NER

R KS S

O TA H

E LS & R

P

Our trails are finally drying out from the

sail on Aug. 12 at the Beach Club. Build your

amazing winter we had, and the mountain

boat out of cardboard and duct tape only and

biking is getting better by the day. I hope you

join us for the race starting at 3 p.m. Rules for

get a chance to get out and ride some of the

the event can be found in the Summer Fun

beautiful trails we have here in Tahoe Donner.

Guide or on our website at tahoedonner.com/

Here are some highlights for this month: • For the latest in trail conditions, stop by Bikeworks in the Alder Creek Adventure Center and our friendly staff will be happy to point you to the good stuff.

beach-club. This is a free event, but access fees apply.

Scavenger Hunt, Aug. 13 The day after the Regatta is the last event of the season: The Scavenger Hunt. This free family event for teams of four to five people starts at noon. One team member must be over the age of 18 to participate. Access fees apply.

Space is limited; sign up by calling the Beach Club Marina at 530-587-9460.

As the Beach Club Marina wraps up its event season, remember that rentals and private lessons are still available. See the website for details or give us a call.

See you on the water!

ALI KOVACH | BEACH CLUB MARINA MANAGER

10

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

See you on the trails,

• Our second mountain bike maintenance clinic for women is on Aug. 3 from 4 to 6 p.m. The first clinic this summer was very successful and everyone had a great time while learning how to take care of their bikes. This event is free for members and only $10 for everyone else.

• Our next round of specialty clinics begins on Aug. 5. Topics for these four-hour clinics are an introduction to mountain biking for women, or FUN-damental mountain biking for kids ages 9-12. You can sign up on ShopTD for these lessons taught by our IMBA certified mountain bike instructors.

DAVE WALKER | TAHOE DONNER BIKE PROGRAM MANAGER

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• Don’t forget to sign up on ShopTD for our ever-popular popular kids’ mountain bike camps. They’re available every weekend all summer long; we also offer week-long camps on Aug. 7, 14 and 21.

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Junior Golfers Tee Up for Free!

Grab the kids and enjoy an evening on the links! Golfers age 17 and under can tee up to nine holes on foot for free after 6 p.m. Juniors must be accompanied by an adult.

COST: 17 AND UNDER FREE; ACCOMPANYING ADULT $20 TIME: 6 P.M.

It’s tournament time! Your game is polished and you are ready to put your skills to the test in one of the three Tahoe Donner Golf Course tournaments: JUNIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP MEN’S CLUB INVITATIONAL RYDER CUP

AUG. 3 AUG. 18–19 AUG. 27

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L AY S N OW P ER MEMBER $55; PUBLIC Children ages 8 to 14 will learn the E E K$65 O N N COST: R C A T E OE D H U R A O T R R fundamentals of horsemanship, equestrian NNE S K I AKRYSTAL-RAET RMECHAM E N T| EEQUESTRIAN L C L I H C Y E R N R T safety and riding skills duringDthis OWhalf-dayC LU B MANAGER O U N JAMES MURTAGH | GOLF MANAGER ER NUpon N AC H I NA camp. the completion of camp, O E B OE D Y H R A T U N T have a horse show; no prior MAR the C Ochildren S S O CH C R R A E C E T B experience isNneeded.

Learn more at S R E E C EMB is AR I n M n TD M e www.tahoedonner.com/equestrian.

T t E ME L UEBDONNER R C A ENT E R DATES: AUG. 7–11 AND AUG. 14–18 C N I s E O i H O T n A N J T t en COST: MEMBER $529; PUBLIC $629 AN C E I R NER T ER S N E N DON U Q E R E DO HOE E O A H K T T E A FEATURED AUGUST TEVENTS TI ON C EN A E N R A I C R E D R tennis is still in full UN U EST12 and 26 S August is here and QAug. E K Pancakes and Ponies, E E Reserve Your Private Dinner Ride A L D E R C R HaWOO D swing. We have a full schedule of clinics and Dthe little ones and joinN OusRfor T N Bring U O R programs to keep your games razor sharp.

Enjoy a scenic ride to Euer Valley where A M P G OO L C hearty breakfast of pancakes, bacon,Psausage, R E R N WOO E Pick up a copy of the calendar at the tennis H you’ll enjoy aDcatered T DON R O N N cowboy dinner among E O O E scrambled eggs, coffee and juice, followed by N O E friends or family. TAH WO R KS TA H shop or print it out online at tahoedonner.

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K F I E B NN G O L adventure com/tennis.OMake This guided E D O sure to sign up early for all Rcan host for up to six Please make a reservation by calling TA H S schedule during the NNE O D E the great activities people and requires a reservation.

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ONN TIME: 9–11 A.M. OE D H A COST: ADULT $109; CHILD $99 T Burgers, Bratwurst and Tennis Bash, COST: $35 WITH PONY RIDE; UA R D S G E F I TIME: OFFERED FROM 3:30–6:00 P.M. L $15 BREAKFAST ONLY R Aug. 12 NNE E DO O H Join the Tennis Club for an afternoon of TA S Boarding Your Horse and Cocktails, Aug. 18 and 25 AT I CCowgirls U Q A tennis, food and fun. Start off with a warm-up Your horse wants Kickoff the weekend with an early evening R a Tahoe Donner vacation NNE O D clinic from our USPTA certified teaching staff, too!

H O EEquestrian N TCenter offers monthly, trail ride followed by beer, wine and appetizTAThe E V E L then test your skills in round robin play, and A I overnight boarding throughout weekly ers. Enjoy a scenic trail ride through highland S P E Cand finish with a feast of all your BBQ and potluck AR EA I K S L including who is eligible OW N HtoI Lplay, please call the D golf pro shop at 530-587-9443.

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the summer that includes accommodations in a 12' x 24' covered paddock. For more information, including member and non-member pricing, please call 530-587-9470.

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meadows and forests and then relax, nibble on appetizers and sip a frosty beer or glass of wine. Must be at least 21 years old to participate.

favorites.

TIMES: CLINIC 3 P.M.; ROUND ROBIN 4 P.M.; BBQ AND POTLUCK 6 P.M. COST: TENNIS CLUB MEMBERS FREE; MEMBERS $10; GUESTS $16 tahoedonner.com |

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tion, to register, or to volunteer for the fun

Ninth Annual Pam Krone Memorial – A USTA Gold Cup Event

and ultra running races. Registration closes Thursday, Aug. 3 at 4 p.m.

Join us for the event of the season as

These races are organized by the Auburn

we remember a great friend of the Tahoe Donner Tennis Center and compete in a

Ski Club and all proceeds from races will be

top-notch competition from around North-

used to support junior cross country ski and

ern California and beyond. Pam Krone was

biathlon programs in the area.

a symbol of tennis and the arts in the Lake Tahoe area, and her memory is alive with house. Bring a blanket, enjoy a pizza from

up for the tournament, stop by to watch or

Pizza on the Hill and play for fun prizes.

reminisce as players from all over NorCal and

Don’t miss the grand finale on Aug. 28!

Tournament entry is online at norcal.usta. com. For more information, call 530-587-9474.

Gold Cup Event - 2X Ranking Points 3rd/4th Playoff NMW(2.5-5.0)S, SE; NMW(2.5-5.0)D, SE; NX(2.5-5.0)D, SE

A challenging and fun morning of rock climbing with professional guides on Donner Summit. All levels welcome, from first-timers to experienced climbers. All equipment prohold the clinic; 15-person maximum.

Helle Sparre Pickleball Camp, Aug. 22–24 Join us in welcoming pickleball professional Helle Sparre to Tahoe Donner as she improves our game during a three-day camp. Sign up for

TIME: 9 A.M.–12:30 P.M. COST: $45 PER PERSON

ROGER BURNS | RECREATION SUPERVISOR

TD Women's 9-Holer Club Interested in a casual and fun group of women to golf and socialize with? Keep reading.

In May, TD Women's 9-Holer Club held their annual welcome breakfast at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. Over 30 golfers joined us in a yummy breakfast while getting acquainted.

After breakfast, we headed over to Ponderosa Golf Course for an enjoyable preseason game.

couples tournament in the afternoon, followed

ups, time and pricing information available

by prizes and dinner at The Lodge—always

in the pro shop. For more information, call

with lots of laughs. And lastly, on June 22,

530-587-9474.

after our weekly game of golf, we headed over

See you on the courts!

IAN MINDELL | DIRECTOR OF TENNIS

Sierra Crest Ultra Run Adds Fun Run at Tahoe Donner, Saturday, Aug 5.

The Sierra Crest 30- and 50-kilometer Ultra Run has added a 15-kilometer “fun run” for

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those wishing to try their hand at the first leg of the 50k ultra course.

The 12k race starts and finishes at the Alder Creek Adventure Center. The course descends into Euer Valley and returns via singletrack

Family Movie Night Every Friday at 6:30 p.m., bring your favor-

and dirt roads to finish near the Alder Creek Adventure Center. Distance is approximately

ite blanket and pillow to get cozy and enjoy

15k. See tahoedonner.com for a copy of the

a movie! This free event is hosted at the

course map.

Northwood Clubhouse and all movies are

The fun run race starts at 8:10 a.m., just

rated G or PG. Please call the Recreation Hut

after the start of the 30k race. Participants are

at 530-582-9646 to find out what’s playing!

encouraged to drive up after their run to cheer

Monday Night Bingo Every Monday from 6:30–8 p.m., enjoy bingo on the lawn outside Northwoods Club-

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enjoy this fast-paced game even more. Sign-

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fully opened Tahoe Donner Golf Course. A

an edge on your opponent as Sparre helps us

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clinics and lessons beginning Aug. 1 and get

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Rock Climb Donner Summit, Aug. 5 and 19

vided. A minimum of five people required to

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beyond battle it out for the tournament title.

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us over this weekend of tournament play. Sign

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

on the 30k and 50k finishers at Auburn Ski Club on Donner Summit.

See truckeefunrun.com for more informa-

to Zano’s for our annual summer luncheon.

If the sounds of laughter and the noise level was any indication, everyone was enjoying themselves.

For more information, contact Lynette Powell at lynette.powell@sbcglobal.net.

LYNETTE POWELL | 9-HOLER PRESIDENT

TD 4 Wheelers Club The Tahoe Donner 4 Wheelers had a lot

Friends of Tahoe Donner Trails The Trails Club was founded on the prin-

On Sunday, Aug. 27, the Men’s and Women’s Golf Clubs will join forces to host the third

of fun participating in this year’s 4th of July

ciple that hands-on stewardship of our trails

annual Ryder Cup. This fun and friendly com-

Parade. We had eight 4x4s in the parade, each

and open spaces should be a vital part of this

petition will start at noon with one member of

decorated to the max with red, white and blue.

community. We've been busy this season put-

the pro shop leading each of the two teams. A

The drivers were accompanied by their kids,

ting that principle into practice.

light dinner will be provided after the event.

grandkids and several friends. They handed

For the fifth year in a row, we pulled inva-

out candy and everyone had a great time wav-

sive musk thistle atop the ski hill. In 2013, we

ing to the huge crowds.

removed dozens of mature, flowering musk

The club also enjoyed Summer Concert on

thistle. This year we found only five. Invasive

the Green this year. We roped off a section for

weeds are spreading all across this region, but

our members and it was a great time to meet

our weed pulls prove that determination and

new members and spend time with old friends.

consistent effort can reverse their advance.

We also want to thank our friends at 4 Wheel Parts in Sparks, Nevada, specifically

Next, we returned to the club's volunteer trail building roots. Interest in trail work among Tahoe Donner members has grown at an extraordinary rate. This year we partnered with the Trails Department to begin work on an ambitious reroute near the Teton Way Trail. We are also working with some of our most dedicated trail work volunteers to form an independent trail crew with the qualifications to undertake more frequent projects on

More details on the Ryder Cup will be posted in the pro shop.

Come join in the fun. See you in the woods.

Tahoe Donner Quilt Club Tahoe Donner Quilt Club's new summer meeting time is 3 to 5 p.m. in the Meadow Room of the Northwoods Clubhouse behind Pizza on the Hill. All skill levels welcome!

Our latest project that we are continuing to work on is fidget quilts. These are little quilts for dementia patients who pluck at anything and have been known to hurt themselves.

These fidget quilts keep the patients' fingers busy while preventing injuries.

Any questions regarding the club can be directed to Linda Brush at sewlinda@aol.com.

their own schedule.

Finally, we led a guided hike in Carpenter Valley, an extraordinary spot just over the n of Truckee by The 4 Wheelers took the Tow parade. storm in this year ’s 4th of July

ridge from Tahoe Donner's Crabtree Canyon. The Trails Club, which will do almost anything involving our trails and open spaces

the manager, Aaron Mundane. He hosted our

except hike, was happy to make an exception

club for a very informative afternoon. We

to help the Truckee Donner Land Trust spread

learned how to customize our 4x4s and how

word of this magnificent area. Perhaps we will

to make them more capable and safe for our

even do some volunteer projects there in the

off-roading adventures. Not only did he give

future.

us some great information, but he also hosted

In August, we will host our annual Invasive

a very nice BBQ spread for the group. I know

Weed Walk with the Truckee River Water-

everyone who came had a great time.

shed Council, and continue our efforts build-

This year Sierra 4x4 Trails and Ales will

ing trails. For more information about these

be held on Sept. 16. The event will feature a

events please visit TDTrails.org, or email the

morning trail run at Bear Valley OHV, fol-

club at tdtrails@gmail.com.

lowed by a buffet dinner under the tent behind Northwoods Clubhouse. We will have details about the event on our website soon. So if you have been thinking about joining the club, now is a great time so you can participate in this fun event.

If you would like to join the fun and explore the less traveled backroads of this majestic region with us, please see our website at TD4wheelers.com or send us an email at td4wheelers@gmail.com.

BILL RATCLIFF | CLUB PRESIDENT

Examples of the quilt club's beautiful fidget quilts.

Men’s Golf Club There are two big tournaments this August.

The first is the annual Men's Club Invitational.

This three-day event starts late Thursday afternoon, Aug. 17 with registration, libations, putting, chipping and a flop wall contest. The two days of golf will be played on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 18–19. Members of the Men's Club will be looking for non-member partners for this event. More details on the tournament can be found in the Tahoe Donner Golf Course pro shop.

ROOF PAINTING Specializing in Home Inspection Compliance Metal Roof Painting since 2003 (530) 587-3452 CA Lic. #484113

tahoedonner.com |

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*All offers listed are valid during non-holiday periods and are not valid with any other promotions or coupons. Offers subject to change.

Get the latest dining news by joining the Tahoe Donner Dining newsletter online!

DINING OPTIONS ALDER CREEK CAFÉ AND TRAILSIDE BAR 15275 Alder Creek Rd. 530-587-9484 tahoedonner.com/aldercreekcafe

Cafe and Bar hours: Open from 11 a.m.– 6 p.m. for lunch with beer and wine happy hour offered daily from 3–6 p.m.

THE LODGE RESTAURANT & PUB 12850 Northwoods Blvd.

530-587-9455 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge

Open daily for lunch starting at 11:30 a.m. and dinner at 5 p.m.

Now serving Sunday Brunch every week from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Closures: The café will be closed all day on

Lunch

Aug. 5. On Aug. 17, the café will be closing

August is the last month to take advantage of all the great new lunch items at The Lodge. Lunch service will transition into a less extensive menu, as prepared by the T-9 Grill,

at 4 p.m. and on Aug. 19 and 25, the café will be closing at 2:30 p.m.

Friday Free Tastings Join us each Friday in August for a free beer and wine tasting from 3–6 p.m. The chef also creates an appetizer special each week for purchase, in addition to offering the regular menu. Not offered on Aug. 25.

Cornhole Tournaments, Aug. 11 and Sept. 1 We are hosting two special cornhole tournaments at the Alder Creek Adventure Center.

Sign up your two-person team beginning at 5:30 p.m. the day of each tournament; the tournament starts promptly at 6 p.m. Entry is $10 per team, which includes a drink ticket for each player. The top two finishers will win prizes! Plus, make sure you come up with a cool or unique team name, as the best name (as determined by staff ) will win a prize, too!

The Alder Creek Cafe and Trailside Bar are extending their hours to 8 p.m. on these dates for all of your food and beverage needs.

Free Live Music, Aug. 12, 26 and Sept. 2 We are hosting three more free musical evenings for your enjoyment! Each scheduled performance will last from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with both Trailside Bar and Alder Creek Café open until 8 p.m. for all your food and beverage needs. Bands to perform will be announced soon. Check our website at tahoedonner.com/ alder-creek-cafe for details.

beginning Sept. 5.

No Corkage Tuesdays*

percent off shared plates, soups and salads in The Pub, valid every Sunday–Thursday from 4–6 p.m.

Early Birdie Happy Hour* Every day from 2–4 p.m., enjoy drink specials and a limited happy hour menu in The Pub. Open to golfers and non-golfers alike!

Live Music at The Lodge, Aug. 17 From 6 to 9 p.m., join us for live music featuring Guitar Town, a local acoustic/electric

and we’ll waive the corkage fee.

traditional country music.

PIZZA ON THE HILL

Open Mic Night, Aug. 17

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

Lunch: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. through Aug. 13 offering a special lunch menu, plus delivery to Northwoods Pool for members.

duo known for playing popular rock, pop and

It’s Open Mic Night at Northwoods Clubhouse, hosted by Michael Golden. Join us from 6:30–9 p.m. and be ready for a fun-filled evening! We will supply an amplifier, but please bring your own instrument. This event is offered on the third Thursday of every month.

Dinner: Open daily from 5–8:30 p.m. through Sept. 4. Hours return to Thursday– Sunday, 5–8:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 5.

Free Beer Tasting, Aug. 22 Between 5 and 7 p.m., taste a variety of beers from a featured brewery (to be announced soon) for free. Happy hour deals for the selected brewery will be offered all night!

Happy Hour* Enjoy drink specials, $4 Coors Light, $5 seasonal draft beers and $6 house cabernet or chardonnay by the glass, plus half-price wings.

Offered every day we are open from 5–6 p.m.

Monday Night Bingo

free! See page 12 for details.

Friday Family Movie Night Grab a pizza to go and enjoy it while watching a movie on our big screen. See page 12 for details.

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

Enjoy drink specials and 25

On Tuesdays, bring in a special bottle of wine from home to savor in the dining room

Enjoy Monday night bingo on the lawn outside Northwoods Clubhouse. Play and win for

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Happy Hour*

ADDITIONAL LUNCH OPTIONS T-9 GRILL Open for breakfast 30 minutes before the first scheduled tee time and closes at 4 p.m.

MARCO POLO GRILL Poolside lunch and drink service operates at Trout Creek from 11:30 a.m.– 3 p.m. daily.

The grill will be closed Aug. 28–Sept.

4, but will reopen Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2–4, before closing for the season.

MARINA GRILL The Marina Grill offers an assortment of food and drinks at the Beach Club from 11 a.m.–6 p.m. daily.

BULLETIN BOARD

SIX SUMMER FOOD FAVORITES

BY ASHLEY QUADROS

While out and about enjoying everything there is to do in Tahoe Donner, at some point you’re bound to work up an appetite. When you do, visiting one of six hot lunch spots in Tahoe Donner is a must. The Alder Creek Café serves lunch

ALDER CREEK CAFÉ: LET’S TALK TACO CART Located at the Alder Creek Adventure Center is the Alder Creek Café, the only restaurant in Tahoe Donner open year-round for lunch, but as the restaurant strives to offer the freshest seasonal produce, the menu does change

year-round, but lunch is a limited-time

regularly, so head to the cafe now to try their

offering for the other locales, so I decided

latest lunch menu.

to try these six summer food favorites

first time ever eating beans and corn in a sandwich, but it worked. The southwest sauce hit my taste buds with the perfect balance of

firsthand—before it's too late!

spic and flavor. It wasn’t too hot, but be ready

THE LODGE RESTAURANT & PUB: AWE OVER THE AHI POKE BOWL

for a little kick. The sauce complimented the

The award-winning Lodge Restaurant &

I couldn’t finish this one on my own. It was

Pub, known for its classic bistro-style menus

incredibly hearty and served with a side of

chicken and corn salsa to perfection, though

crispy homemade potato chips with a garlic

and flair, is a hub for Tahoe Donner neighbors and families to join together. Per Restaurant

I learned the talk of the town is the ACC

Manager Christen Holland, their most popular

Taco Cart. It’s not actually a cart full of tacos,

lunch entrée is a new lunch item, the Ahi Poke

but rather two Baja-style tacos made with

Bowl, one of several great additions.

crushed pinto beans, shredded cabbage, cilan-

“Our customers can’t get enough of it,”

tro, scallions, chipotle aioli and queso fresco,

said Holland. “We’ve had the same people

served with your choice of jumbo shrimp,

coming back again and again for it—it’s that

spicy chicken, carnitas or grilled nopales

good.” With this rave review, I had to try it

(marinated cactus). I ordered mine with

for myself. While the ahi itself is definitely

chicken and upgraded it with avocado. I’m

the star of the dish, the other ingredients held

convinced the chipotle aioli sauce is the secret

their own. Between the marinated cucum-

to this dish’s popularity, since after my first

bers and the fried wontons, everything was

bite, I was ready to eat a cart full of

simply delicious. The rest of the bowl includes

these tacos!

avocado, jalapeños, radishes, green onions, toy box tomatoes and black sesame seed. Altogether, it’s one killer combo.

aioli dipping sauce.

T-9 GRILL: MEET THE MULLIGAN Located at Tahoe Donner Golf Course just downstairs from The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, the T-9 Grill is a great lunch (and breakfast) spot. Upon arriving, I walked into the adjacent pro shop where multiple golfers were checking in. “What’s the best item on the menu at the T-9?” I asked. In unison, everyone replied, “The Mulligan!” The sandwich is made with ham, and full disclosure, I am not a ham fan

PIZZA ON THE HILL: SAVOR THE SOUTHWEST CHICKEN PANINI Pizza on the Hill is of course known for its pizza, but it’s becoming known for its paninis, too. Available only at lunch, the Southwest Chicken Panini is already a fan favorite. This is the first year this panini has been offered

and I didn’t think it was possible to make ham

and it’s quite unique.

taste good with anything; however, I was

It’s made with grilled chicken, zesty south-

proved wrong and I have officially been con-

west sauce and romaine lettuce, and topped

verted! The Mulligan is made with sliced ham,

with a black bean and corn salsa. It was my

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mayo, and is served grilled on artisan bread. The combination of these ingredients was surprisingly light and delicious and I ate the whole thing. And for some strange reason after eating The Mulligan, I left the T-9 with a strong urge to work on my golf game.

MARINA GRILL: EAT THE HEIRLOOM The Marina Grill is located at the Beach Club Marina, a private offering for Tahoe Donner members and their guests. Over the last four years, the Heirloom Tomato Caprese Panini quickly became their signature sandwich. The sandwich came about by Marina Manager Ali Kovach, who often made a similar sandwich at home and thought the Marina Grill could benefit from it. “I suggested it to the kitchen supervisor at the time, who doctored it up,” she said. “I don’t know how you could make it any better.”

The current kitchen supervisor, Daniel Baeza, agreed, noting the sandwich hadn’t changed since its inception. “They’re a lot of fun to make and we sell a lot of them,” he said. “It’s one of the most popular items.”

The panini is made with heirloom tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, tossed in homemade basil-pesto with a balsamic reduction, and served on a grilled ciabatta roll. Upon my first bite, the panini oozed with mozzarella cheese and my fingers dripped with tomato juice. The pesto and balsamic made it incredibly moist while the bread itself stayed delightfully crispy. Kovach noted that many order the sandwich to share on the beach, but there was no room for sharing on my end.

MARCO POLO GRILL: TRY THE TASTY TABOULI

Woman Owned Business

Marco Polo Grill is a poolside lunch option at Trout Creek Recreation Center, a private offering for Tahoe Donner members and their guests.

As I spoke with members at the rec pool recently, I learned many love the Tabouli Salad, which is new to the menu this year.

The standard Tabouli is made with greens, tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, onions, extra virgin olive oil Article photos by Ashley Quadros and Kyle Kelly

and lemon, but this

Serving Truckee/North Tahoe

salad can be upgraded with grilled shrimp or chicken. I opted for

• Environmentally friendly • Organic citrus base solution • Safe for pets and people • Low moisture process

the shrimp upgrade and the lemon complimented the shrimp beautifully. The salad itself was on the lighter side, which is great when you’re out swimming. While heartier items, like burgers and hot dogs, are on the menu, I found this to be the perfect portion for someone who wants to enjoy something a little healthier while dipping their toes in the water.

To learn more about all of Tahoe Donner’s restaurants, visit tahoedonner.com.

DRY 1 IN HOUR!

530-320-4192

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| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

Making Magic with Dirt:

TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND

Truckee Bike Park

BY KATIE VENI, TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND COMMITTEE MEMBER

Capping off the profiles of our 2017 grant recipients, this month we feature the Truckee Bike Park, a place where dirt and sagebrush have been magically transformed into a world-class biking destination, free for all and designed for all.

After riding a pumptrack in Sun Valley in 2012, Cortney Knudson and Brooks McMullin were inspired to bring the concept home to Truckee. For the past six years they have volunteered countless hours of their own time to build the park. Thanks to them, local and visiting cyclists of all ages -- beginner to advanced – now have a beautiful and massive park to enjoy. The park wouldn’t be possible without the trail builders and designers, a symbiotic partnership with Truckee-Donner Rec and Parks and successful (and continuing) fundraising efforts.

Located at 12200 Joerger Drive, just beyond Riverview Sports Park, the park is open to the public, sunrise to sunset (weather permitting), seven days a week during summer months.

Its main elements are:

PUMP TRACKS A circuit of rollers and berms to develop bike handling skills.

DIRT JUMPS To practice getting airborne.

DROP ZONE For practicing drops of various sizes.

CROSS COUNTRY LOOP A half-mile track around the park perimeter.

Kids ages 6 to 18 can build pumping, jumping, turning and dropping skills Tuesdays and Thursdays through August 24 in “The Next Level” bike skills program, with certified coaches teaching fundamentals in a fun and supportive environment. With help from the Clif Bar Foundation, kids with financial need may qualify for coaching scholarships. Private lessons are also available.

The Bike Park is operated by Knudson and McMullin’s non-profit, Biking for a Better World. They credit a long list of public organizations, businesses and individuals with helping the Bike Park become one of the best in the nation. They also host the annual “Little Big” event featuring clinics, races, jump jams and an annual spirited fundraiser with silent auction.

“We are really grateful for your support,” says McMullin of the Giving Fund grant.

“We’ve been inspired by the support for the park from businesses, individual and foundations. It’s been hard work, but worth every hour of our time, as Truckee now has something truly unique and wonderful that everyone here can enjoy.”

For more information, visit www.truckeebikepark.org.

Serving on the Giving Fund Committee connects members with many elements of our beautiful High Sierra community and gives us a broad perspective on all the goodness and good works of our mountain neighbors. If you’re interested in our mission to pool funds from Tahoe Donner homeowners to make grants to local non-profits and provide scholarships to deserving high school graduates, we would love to hear from you. Please email Giving Fund Chair Dick Gander at tdgf@tahoedonner.com.

The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is chartered by the Tahoe Donner board of directors and administered through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation. All contributions are voluntary, tax deductible gifts from Tahoe Donner members and friends. For more information, or to make a contribution: tahoedonner.com/ giving-fund or tdgf@tahoedonner.com.

tahoedonner.com |

17

FEATURE

Observe the Magic of the Starry Night Sky

BY DEREK MOORE 2017 has been a busy year for astronomy lovers.

Maybe you caught Comet 45P/HMP in February, the Mercury, Mars and moon triangle in March, or the joint rising of Jupiter and the moon in April. If you missed these, don’t worry, there are plenty of dazzling night-sky displays in store for the second half of this year.

With approximately 300 clear nights per year, combined with a lack of light pollution, dry air and low atmospheric turbulence, the Lake Tahoe and Truckee area is an ideal location for witnessing such starry-night events. Not only is it a great excuse to connect with nature and ponder the vastness of our universe, recent studies have shown that exposure to the natural light and total darkness of the outdoors helps reset our internal clocks in as little as two days — the same as a weekend camping trip.

18

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

What are Celestial Events?

A celestial event is an astronomical phenomenon involving one or more celestial bodies. Common examples include the cyclical phases of the moon, solar and lunar eclipses, meteor showers, and comet flybys.

Some of the more common events are defined as follows:

Moon Cycles We typically understand the moon cycle as new moon and full moon, first quarter and third quarter, and the phases in between. The new moon presents the best conditions for stargazing as the sky is at

Each night, three objects will be selected to observe based on what is best for viewing during the time of year and evening. Each participant will receive a complimentary night sky star wheel for do-it-yourself star viewing.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18: STARGAZING BEGINS AT 9:30 P.M. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22: STARGAZING BEGINS AT 9 P.M.

The Trailside Bar is scheduled to be open and hot chocolate will be available. Both evenings are dependent on viewing and weather conditions. Please contact the Tahoe Donner Rec Hut for questions and more information 530-582-9646.

its darkest. This occurs when the moon is aligned between the earth and the sun. A full moon occurs when the earth is aligned between the moon and the sun, allowing us to see the full reflection of the sun illuminating the moon to its brightest.

Meteor Shower A meteor shower is when a number of meteors, or “shooting stars,” flash across the night sky traveling at speeds exceeding 25,000 miles per hour, seemingly from the same point or “radiant.” Meteors are not stars but space debris entering the earth’s atmosphere. July and August are some of the best months to observe meteor showers.

Solar Eclipse Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth are aligned in an almost exact straight line, with the moon in the middle, such that the moon passes in front of the sun.

Lunar Eclipse A lunar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly behind the Earth into its shadow. This occurs only when the sun, Earth, and moon are aligned with the Earth in the middle. A lunar eclipse can occur only the night of a full moon.

New Stargazing Events in Tahoe Donner To help celebrate the cosmos, Tahoe Donner will be hosting two free stargazing events on August 18 and September 22 at the Alder Creek Adventure Center. Led by local astronomy enthusiast, Al Salas, guests will be treated to a view of the constellations using Tahoe Donner’s brand new Celestron CPC 1100 XLT Computerized Telescope, and will also receive basic astrological information throughout the evening.

“I’m a stargazer with a love for the night sky,” explains Salas, who worked as Tahoe Donner’s maintenance manager for 32 years before retiring five years ago. “A few years back, I was talking with the campground managers about Jupiter moons and the fact that one can view them with a telescope. One night I brought my telescope and did some stargazing with the campers. They loved it and wanted me to keep coming back.”

Left: Sunrise Bowl in Tahoe Donner Right: A Celestron CPC 1100 XLT Computerized Telescope

tahoedonner.com |

19

Mark Your Calendars There are some significant events in store for the novice and experienced stargazer over the next five months. Make a plan to catch one or all of these cosmic occurrences.

Perseid Meteor Shower — August 13 The Perseid meteor shower occurs in mid-August, reaching peak activity on August 13. The maximum rate of meteors expected to be visible is around 80 per hour given a perfect dark sky. This year, the moon will be 21 days old at the time of peak activity causing some light interference in the pre-dawn sky. However, meteors are still expected to be visible.

Total Solar Eclipse — August 21 Expected to be the most viewed astronomical event this year, this will be the first time since 1918 that a total solar eclipse will be A white light image of the solar corona during totality of a solar eclipse. Top Right: Visualization of the August 21, 2017 Total Solar Eclipse. Photos courtesy of NASA.

visible from the west coast to the east coast of the United States. The best place to view the moon completely block out the sun is along a

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SEND A LETTER TO THE EDITOR Would you like a Tahoe Donner issue or concern to receive more exposure? Letters from Tahoe Donner members in good standing are posted on our website, and now, they will also be printed in the Tahoe Donner News magazine as space permits.

While we won’t be able to print all letters in the magazine, all will appear online. Review the letter submission guidelines and read past letters at tahoedonner.com/ letters-to-the-editor.

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Tips for Stargazing Pick a location with limited light pollution. The North Tahoe and Truckee region, including Tahoe Donner, offers many mountaintop viewing sites accessible by road or a short hike.

• Anyone planning to watch the solar eclipse should wear eclipse glasses or a specially-made solar filter. Looking at the sun without the proper eyewear can be harmful and lead to permanent eye damage. narrow strip from Oregon to South Carolina. However, a partial solar eclipse will be visible throughout the rest of the U.S. including Lake Tahoe. Viewers on the west coast can expect the eclipse to begin about 9 a.m. ending about 11:40 a.m. As seen from any given location, this total eclipse will last for a maximum of 2 minutes.

Venus Joins Jupiter — November 13 Witness two of the brightest celestial objects in our skies extremely close together at sunrise.

Geminid Meteors — December 13 Sky-watchers can enjoy 60 to 120 shooting stars per hour at peak times during this annual meteor display. Peak performance is expected during the pre-dawn hours of December 14 after the waning crescent moon descends. Some shooting stars associated with the shower are expected to be visible each night from December 7 through 16.

• Pack a pair of binoculars to help view stars, planets and other clusters of space dust that otherwise might be faint with the naked eye.

• Take your smartphone. There are numerous mobile apps available for learning about and exploring the night sky.

• Celestron SkyPortal: Explore the solar system, 120,000 stars, over 200 star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and dozens of asteroids, comets, and satellites. Free.

• Meteor Shower Guide: Get current conditions based on sunrise and sunset times, moon phases, peak dates and times and more. $0.99 • SkySafari 5 Plus: A full-featured space simulator with telescope control. $14.99 Article sources: Tahoe Quarterly, Astronomy.com, Nationalgeographic.com, In-the-sky.org, Wikipedia, Moonconnection.com, CU Boulder, Eclipse2017.nasa.gov

tahoedonner.com |

21

TOM LAWRENSON

TIPS FROM THE PROS

MASTERING THE MENTAL GAME OF TENNIS

BY SASHA CHUCHKOVICH | TAHOE DONNER TENNIS PRO As a junior competitor in my early teens I thought that winning a

and the first couple of games. What do they do well? Where are the

tennis match should be relatively easy. If you practice hard enough and

weaknesses? Devise a plan to use that information. Tweak your plan as

stay in good shape, you would be entitled to victory, right? Wrong! At

needed if you see your opponent is onto your game plan.

a young age I realized that my simple way of thinking did not produce the results I was expecting. I lost important matches at the national championships when I was a much better athlete and player than my opponents, but lost because of the mental game.

Fortunately I had a great coach who was a master at the mental game. He asked me, “How are tennis matches won?” I had a killer forehand; what more did I need? He just laughed. In time, he taught me that matches are won with the head, legs and strokes—and in that particular order. Here are his simple tips for elevating your mental game.

1. STUDY YOUR OPPONENT AND ADJUST YOUR GAME A player should scan and analyze the opponent during warm-ups

2. CONTROL YOUR EMOTIONS Avoid letting negative thoughts take over, regardless of how frustrated you are after losing a point. Each point is a new opportunity!

3. CONFIDENCE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASSET IN A TENNIS MATCH Don't let it disappear during the match regardless of the score. Your body is being closely monitored by your opponent. Keep reminding yourself that you have the right to believe in your strokes and tennis abilities, whether you have months or years of practice.

I am very grateful to my coach for opening my eyes. It is a lovely game and I continue to learn every day I step on the court.

Still need help with your game? Visit www.tahoedonner.com/tennis to see a full calendar of clinics to enhance your skills, master the mental

For all the ways you

enjoy

the outdoors, more!

USE YOUR BODY FOR A POWERFUL SWING

BY JAMES MURTAGH | HEAD GOLF PRO Good golfers know that power comes from the body, not the arms.

And who doesn’t want a more powerful swing? To learn to power the club with your core instead of your arms and hands, try this drill: 1. Put the club behind the ball, with your body in a dead-stop position.

2. Without taking a backswing, try to drag the ball into the air.

Player who use their hands to control their club will likely struggle

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| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

at first. In no time, you should find that once you start moving the club with your body, you'll begin to get the ball in the air more consistently.

This helps you turn fully through the ball on the downswing.

Don’t stop improving your game here! See our weekly clinic schedule at www.tahoedonner.com/golf.

KERI OBERLY

side and gain confidence in the sport.

BULLETIN BOARD

ASHLEY QUADROS

SUMMER ACTIVITIES NOT TO MISS

BY ASHLEY QUADROS

There is so much to do in Tahoe Donner, but whatever you do, don’t miss your chance at these fun activities:

Group Guided Biking Adventures There’s no better way to enjoy the outdoors than by bike. With over 60 miles of trails in Tahoe Donner, group guided tours through Tahoe Donner Bikeworks are the best way to explore trails you may not have otherwise

JENNY KENDRICK

known existed. Going out with a guide ensures

• Stop by The Lodge Pub and enjoy discounted lunch and drinks every day as part of Early “Birdie” Happy Hour from 2– 4 p.m. Grab a hot dog and chips for just $5.5 and pair it with a Budweiser beer for $3.

• Golf in the mid- to late afternoon to save the most on green fees. With high temps most days, the afternoon is not only an ideal time to golf—it’s also one of the cheapest times. Bonus: junior golfers ages 17 and under may golf 9 holes on foot after 6 p.m. for FREE, if accompanied by an adult. And the adult gets a deal too—golf with your junior for just $20.

It’s Equestrian Fun for Everyone

share interesting facts and history about the lake, wildlife, aquatics and the infamous Donner Party. Tours last approximately one hour on the water and are followed by breakfast at the Marina Grill where you’ll enjoy a FREE breakfast burrito.

WHEN: EVERY TUESDAY THROUGH AUG. 8 TIME: 8 A.M. COST: $19 FOR MEMBERS; $23 FOR GUESTS. SIGN UP ON SHOPTD.

Try Your Hand at Pickleball As a Tahoe Donner member, you may not

Giddy up! Get in touch with your western

have realized you could be playing pickleball

sides at Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center.

every day. Pickleball is a cross between bad-

Trail rides and pony rides are offered every

minton, tennis and table tennis and the Tahoe

Wednesday through Sunday by reservation

Donner Tennis Center offers two premium

and with featured events, such as Cowgirls &

pickleball courts. Unlike tennis, pickleball is

you're getting the best experience, from the

Cocktails, Pancakes & Ponies and Saturday

played on a smaller court, extending 44 feet

best trails to the best sights and scenery. Plus,

Night BBQs. Private guided horseback tours

long by 20 feet wide, which is about one-

tours can be customized based on individ-

with dinner in Euer Valley are even available.

fourth the size of a standard tennis court.

ual skillset, so they are great for all ages and

See everything Tahoe Donner Equestrian

This shorter distance requires less mobility,

abilities. Guided tours last anywhere from 1.5

Center offers at tahoedonner.com/equestrian.

making it a great option for people of all ages

to 2 hours.

Yeehaw!

and abilities.

Learn About the Donner Party, Railroads, Wildlife and More

from the pros? Stop by the tennis pro shop for

WHEN: EVERY DAY! TIME: 10 A.M. OR 1 P.M. COST: $25 PER PERSON (BIKE RENTAL EXTRA). BOOK ON SHOPTD OR CALL 530-582-9694.

Save Some Green While Enjoying the Greens at Tahoe Donner Golf Course If you play it right, Tahoe Donner’s already

Interested in learning how to play pickleball

Every Tuesday through Aug. 8, the Beach Club Marina offers a unique experience

More Fun at Tahoe Donner

exclusively to Tahoe Donner members and

Did you know all of Tahoe Donner's events

their guests. Members may go on an historical

can be found in one convenient location on our

kayak tour in Donner Lake where a guide will

website? Look at our calendar of events any time, all year long, accessible from the home

affordable rates can be reduced even more.

page and under the menu bar (found at the top

Before booking your next round of golf, keep

right of the screen). Customize your search KERI OBERLY

these tidbits in mind: • Cheap clinics! Drop in for a $20 golf clinic to brush up on your game. Clinics last approximately one hour and are offered multiple times per week.

more information or call 530-587-9474.

using the filter option to preview by interest, time frame or simply explore everything Tahoe Donner has in store for you.

tahoedonner.com |

23

IMPORTANT BUSINESS

TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION AND THE 2018 BUDGET The Association's budget cycle runs August through October, as indicated on the infographic to the right. The below information provides some historical perspective of your assessment. For updates on budget meeting dates, subscribe to the Tahoe Donner Member e-blasts. A subscribe button can be found at the bottom of every page on the Tahoe Donner website. You can also visit www.tahoedonner.com/financials for a wealth of in-depth information.

ANNUAL ASSESSMENT GROWTH RATE

BY FUND TYPE AND TOTAL 1987 – 1997 – 2007 – 2017 BUDGET

COMPOUNDED ANNUAL GROWTH RATE

• In 2017, the $1,900 total annual assessment was the same as 2016.

15.0

PERCENT

10.0

8.7

7.5 5.0

• From 2009 to 2012 (four consecutive years), the operating portion of annual assessment was held flat at $695.

11.5

12.5

5.9 3.9

6.8

6.3 4.7

4.6

5.6

2.5 0.0

30 YEAR

20 YEAR

OPERATING

10 YEAR

CAPITAL

TOTAL

OPERATING FUND GROWTH RATE

BY COMPONENT 1987 – 1997 – 2007 – 2017 BUDGET 9.0

COMPOUNDED ANNUAL GROWTH RATE

7.9

PERCENT

6.0

NOTABLE AMENITY FACILITIES GROWTH

• Trout Creek Recreation Center built in 1994, expanded in 2005

5.4 5.3 5.0 4.1

4.5

• Over the past 20 years (1996 to 2016), the association's replacement reserve fund balance has improved by over $6 million, addressing past underfunding and an aging infrastructure of this now 45 year old association.

• The Lodge Restaurant & Pub built in 2005

7.5 6.0

ANNUAL ASSESSMENT NOTES

3.7

4.0

4.7

• Alder Creek Adventure Center built in 2015 • Euer Valley, Trails, Bikeworks

3.0

• Cross Country Skiing added

1.5

• Concerts changed from outsourced to in-house production

0.0

30 YEAR

20 YEAR

10 YEAR

OPERATING REVENUE

OPERATING COSTS

NET OPERATING RESULT LOSS

• Number of Improved Lots has increased (fewer vacant lots now)

OPERATING COSTS TO OPERATING REVENUE RATIO

1987

24

266%

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

1997

162%

2007

152%

2017

157%

• Strategic Guidance refined • Strategic plan guidance

Y JUL

• Key assumptions developed: Macro (US/region economy) Micro (Tahoe Donner specific) AU GU ST

BOARD, FINANCE COMMITTEE AND MANAGEMENT INVOLVED THROUGH ENTIRE PROCESS. ALL MEETINGS OPEN TO MEMBERS.

SEPTEMBER

• Annual assessment invoiced. Due 1/1

BUDGET TIMELINE

R BE M VE O

DEC EM BE R

• Budget Report issued

• Detail meetings and reviews Operating fund Capital funds

N • Annual Assessment requirement • Operating / Development / Replacement Reserve / NM&E Funds components

ER TOB OC

BUDGET INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING KEY DELIVERABLES:

• Budget final review and approval

• Reserve Study update / Capital Spend Plan • Rates and Fees Schedules June 2017

RECENT CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES:

Capital improvement reserve funds for aging facilities

Federal and state regulatory cost pressures (California minimum wage and sick pay mandate, federal affordable care act, workers compensation insurance)

Record revenues 2016/2017 winter and 2016 summer improve revenue estimates for 2018 tahoedonner.com |

25

FEATURE

NEW STONE PAPER TRAIL MAPS AND TRAILS TO ENJOY

BY ASHLEY QUADROS If you have been out enjoying the trails this summer, you may have noticed Tahoe Donner’s brand new and improved paper trail map that was made available across the trail system in mid-July. In the association’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability, the maps include a new design created from unique materials.

“The new trail maps are basically made out of stone,” explained Tahoe Donner Trails Manager, Christina Thayer. “They are 100 percent recyclable and biodegradable. They are also more durable. You can use them in the rain and snow—it’s great!” She explained that the old trail map was flimsy and tore easily, so they didn’t have a long lifespan of continued use. With the new stone paper map, however, the same map can be recycled repeatedly, achieving longevity with fewer harmful effects on the environment.

Produced by Stone Paper Solutions, a company known for having one of the most ecofriendly paper alternatives in the world, the new map is made from 100 percent reclaimed

pher and trail mapping expert. He and Thayer

it helps to expedite the familiarization of the

stones—stones made of calcium carbon-

worked side by side in the creation of the new

trail system, which was one of their objectives.

ate (CaCO3), recycled concrete and HDPE.

map and how it correlates to the trail system,

As before, the trails are still listed by level of

Switching from paper to stone paper makes

with an objective to make it easier for visitors

difficulty, but they are now separated out by

the map waterproof, tear resistant, photode-

to navigate the over 60 miles of trails and fire

the size of the trail (singletrack versus double

gradable and non-toxic. Essentially, no trees,

service roads that Tahoe Donner offers for

track).

water or hazardous materials were used in the

exploration and visitor enjoyment.

creation of these maps. Rather, over 10 tree

"The map looks more like a traditional

In addition to the new trail map, Thayer shared that the trails department is also

lives were saved. The map is also printed in a

forest service map now,” explained Thayer.

working on the introduction of four new trails

higher quality resolution than its predecessor,

“With the old map, if you didn’t have the map

this year; the goal is to have them ready for

making it easier to read.

with you, all the posts with numbers out in

public use by October. “We’ve been working

In addition to the sustainability qualities

the woods didn’t make sense. We’ve replaced

on getting permits to build these trails for

and attractive new look and feel (you’ll notice

all the posts with trail names to help people

over a year,” said Thayer, who noted this is

the quality change immediately), the map

get more familiar with the trails.” She added

part of Tahoe Donner’s Trails Master Plan.

itself has also been completely redesigned

that with the naming convention, it’s easier for

“The new trails are really exciting. We are in

with the help of Grant Kaye, local photogra-

people to know where they are at all times and

full-on construction now. One of the projects

26

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

JOIN THE BROKEN CHAIN EFFORT The construction of Broken Chain trail is a project led by the Friends of Tahoe Donner Trails club and the trails department, which takes place on the third Saturday of each month (Tahoe Donner

Volunteer Trail Days). The public may join the efforts to construct this trail. The remaining dates to participate are Aug. 19 and Sept.

16. See tahoedonner.com/events for details.

“We have signs on trails that we’ve closed as a result of hazards,” explained Thayer. “But people are still going on them and getting stuck in the mud.” The south side of Nature Loop, for example, is closed until it can be properly repaired, but people have been knocking down the closure signs and going on the trail anyway. “On Nature Loop right

by Northwoods, there is a boardwalk always under water because of beaver dams and the boardwalk is sinking,” said Thayer. “It is crossable but unstable. There are also dangerous trees.”

All trails at Tahoe Donner are maintained year after year as feasible, but delays can result based upon unsafe working conditions, required permits for repairs, and available manpower. It is strongly recommended to check tahoedonner.com/trails for the latest trail updates and information, and to learn which trails are fully open and operational.

For this summer, Thayer noted two of the best trails to utilize are Lower Mother Lode to Hidden Gem and Hawk’s Peak, both of which are excellent options for hikers.

While some trails work best for hiking, horseback riding or biking, all trails at Tahoe Donner are multi-use trails and all are open to the public. As you go out and explore the trails, take a new stone map with you, obey closure and warning signs and if you can, please toss a few dollars in the donation kiosks to help maintain Tahoe Donner’s grand and

we are working on is the Broken Chain trail,

or injury, it is important that the public is

and once it’s actually constructed, it will be a

aware so as to avoid incident. However, many

singletrack trail connecting Teton Way to the

are not heeding the warnings and are finding

head kiosks, Member Services, Trout Creek

Glacier Way trailhead.”

themselves in unfavorable conditions.

and the Alder Creek Adventure Center.

glorious trail system.

The new trail maps are available at all trail-

Unfortunately, many people have already noticed the new trails under construction and have begun to utilize them prematurely. "It would be nice if people could stay off them during construction,” said Thayer. “We have signs up, but people are already using them and it’s damaging them.” She shared that the same problem is happening on other trails marked as closed for this season. When the

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| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

BULLETIN BOARD

DRONE USE ON TAHOE DONNER-OWNED PROPERTY AND OTHER PRIVATE PROPERTY As a reminder, Tahoe Donner’s board of directors voted on a prohibition of drone use on Tahoe Donner owned property at the March 2016 board meeting. This prohibition only applies to Tahoe Donner-owned property such as the Trout Creek Recreation Center, the golf course, and the ski areas, as well as all open space including green belts and the trail system.

The rule reads as follows: The operation or use of unmanned aerial systems, or drones, on Tahoe Donner Association common area and other association real property – without the prior written authorization from Tahoe Donner Association – is expressly prohibited. This prohibition on drone operations or use extends to any drones launched or operated from association property, as well as drones launched from private property which then fly onto association-owned property.

Federal regulations through the Federal Aviation Administration govern an individual’s right and authorization to fly drones through registration, professional and hobby licensure and use. However, local agencies may have additional regulations about drone flight, including but not limited to the Town of Truckee and Truckee Airport District. Users should check local restrictions before use, and be courteous to others. Tahoe Donner’s rule will be enforced through complaints via the reporting process detailed in the covenants rules and summarized below.

REPORTING If you believe your private property is threatened through the use of a drone on or near your property, call the Town of Truckee non-emergency dispatch at 530-550-2320 to report use.

Additionally, report the use to Tahoe Donner Covenants Committee through the compliance complaint process available to you through: 1. Online Complaint Submission: onestop.tahoedonner.com 2. Email: compliance@tahoedonner.com To see the Tahoe Donner Covenants Rules, visit tahoedonner.com/ wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ComplianceRules_Amended-10-242015.pdf. tahoedonner.com |

29

BOARD MEETING RECAP JUNE 23, 2017

board and to the membership a summary of comments and activities across all Tahoe Donner social media platforms and on Next Door as an additional way to stay abreast of emerging issues among the membership.

The most common topics this month were: • Dog poop on trails

I. Executive Session Report: No Action In executive session on June 2, 2017 the board of directors discussed

• Trees tagged for removal

the following:

• 2017 board of director election

• Initial discussion of annual performance review and compensation levels for the general manager, required to be completed by June 15 of each year, per employment agreement.

• Special event tent at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub

In executive session on June 8, 2017 the board of directors discussed the following:

• Speeding in Tahoe Donner • Green waste bags • Underground utilities • Amenity usage by members

• Potential litigation issues with legal counsel.

• Completed discussion of annual performance review and compensation levels for the general manager, prior to June 15, as required by employment agreement.

• The general manager exceeded expectations for the review period of June 15, 2016–June 14, 2017, as part of an annual review process.

• Based on that performance, the board of directors awarded a $7,000 (approximately 3%) annual base merit increase.

• The board of directors awarded the general manager a 15% bonus of base salary.

• The board of directors also approve an extension of the existing employment agreement (2016-2020) for an additional year, now (2016-2021).

• The board of directors also agreed that 457 deferred compensation would remain at 14% of base salary.

II. Social Media Update: No Action Derek Moore, interactive communications manager, presented to the

• Governing documents project III. Approval of Minutes: Approved 4 – 0 The board approved the May 20, 2017 regular meeting minutes.

IV. Consent Calendar: Approved 4 – 0 The board approved the following items – • Architectural Standards Committee – Approve Mitch Clarin as new alternate member • Architectural Standards Committee – Approve Nick Sonder as a full-time member of the committee and not an alternate member • Covenants Committee – Approve Fred Zapponi as new Chair of the Covenants Committee • Decision Paper – Replace the Toro 5510D-1 • Decision Paper – Replace the Toro 3250 Triplex Riding Greensmower • Decision Paper – Downhill ski area sun deck and ramp repairs V. Association Master Plan: Failed 2 – 2 The General Plan Committee presented to the board of directors a final association master plan for their approval. The board did not approve the presented association master plan, but requested it be car-

HOMES ON THE RISE

ried over to the newly elected board of directors.

The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed the following plans during June 2017.

VI. Director of Finance and Accounting Report: Approved 4 – 0

Unit/Lot 03/508 06/017 06/005 07/033 09/234 10/232

by Mike Salmon, director of finance and accounting.

30

Street Address 14204 Skislope Way 14765 Alder Creek Road 14921 Alder Creek Road 12913 Hillside Drive 12225 St. Bernard Drive 13051 Roundhill Drive

Square Feet 2280 2965 2432 1500 2099 3815

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

Project House House House House House House

The board approved the unaudited 2017 May Financials as presented VII. Approve Transfer of Excess Funds from the Operating Fund: Approved 4 – 0 The board of directors approved to transfer a total $3.3 million in excess funds into both the replacement reserve fund and the development fund. $1.5 million was transferred into the replacement reserve fund and $1.8 million was transferred into the development fund.

VIII. Approve Contract for Architectural Services for the Trout Creek Reallocation Project: Approved 4 – 0 The board of directors approved to allocate at total of $85,000 in 2017 development funds, to cover necessary architecture, engineering, consulting and contingency fees during the summer of 2017 for the Trout Creek Reallocation project.

BOARD ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING RECAP JUNE 25, 2017

IX. Master Planning Services for the Downhill Ski Lodge: No Action On August 6, 2016, as a part of the 2016 budget process, the board of directors approved $50,000 from the development fund to be used to conduct a feasibility study for the Downhill Ski Lodge replacement project. Two contractors have responded to request for proposals thus far, and are going through the bidding process.

X. Special Event Tent at the Lodge: No Action The board of directors was updated on feedback that has been

I. Appointment of Board Member Officers: Approved Director Jeff Bonzon, Director Jeff Connors, Director Jennifer Jennings, and Directors Jeff Schwerdtfeger and Darius Brooks (via teleconference) established a quorum. With the director election results having been announced and certified at the annual membership meeting, the board elected of the following officers:

received from the membership regarding the proposed new event tent

• President

Jeff Connors

Approved 3 – 2

at the Lodge Restaurant & Pub.

• Vice President

Jeff Schwerdtfeger

Approved 3 – 2

• Treasurer

Jeff Bonzon

Approved 5 – 0

• Secretary

Jennifer Jennings

Approved 5 – 0

receive further membership feedback.

• Director

Darius Brooks

Approved 5 – 0

XI. Town of Truckee Solid Waste Proposal and Negotiations: No

II. Committee Liaison Appointments: Approved

From June 27 to June 29, 2017 a demo of the proposed new event tent will be installed for membership to view. A town hall meeting will be held inside the demo tent on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at 11:00 a.m., to

Action The board discussed the Town of Truckee’s solid waste proposal and negotiations following the Town’s meeting on May 23, 2017.

The board of directors appointed liaisons to the following committees: • Architectural Standards Jeff Schwerdtfeger

Approved 5 – 0

• Covenants

Jennifer Jennings

Approved 5 – 0

not-to-exceed budget of $150,000 to be allocated towards addressing

• Finance

Jeff Bonzon

Approved 5 – 0

Association winter storm tree damage, and to add a common area tree

• General Plan

Jeff Connors

Approved 5 – 0

damage $10,000 component to the reserve study for 2018 and for future

• Giving Fund

Darius Brooks

Approved 5 – 0

XII. Association Winter Storm Tree Damage: Approved 4 – 0 The board of directors approved replacement reserve funds with a

years.

The board of directors also approved phase 2 of storm related tree damage removal including all identified standing dead, downed and hazard trees through contract work utilizing replacement reserve funds with a not-to-exceed budget of $48,950, and to add a golf course tree damage $2,000 component to the reserve study for 2018 and for future years, credit for insurance claim proceeds if any.

XIII. Executive Session Report: No Action The Board awarded a professional services contract, not to exceed $85,000 from the development fund, to Siteline Architecture, to cover necessary architecture, engineering, consulting and contingency fees

III. Adoption of a Board Meeting Schedule: No Action The board reviewed a draft of the 17/18 annual board meeting schedule. The board was unable to fully approve the 17/18 annual board meeting schedule, however the board agreed by consensus to hold the next regular board of directors meeting on Saturday, July 29, 2017.

IV. 2017 Board Training Plan: No Action The board was given an information paper regarding a 2017 board training plan to review. Topics for each training session were discussed and a more finalized schedule will be determined at the next regular board of directors meeting on July 29, 2017.

during the summer of 2017 for the Trout Creek Reallocation project.

The board of directors discussed personnel and potential litigation matters.

WATCH BOARD MEETINGS ONLINE! Interested in watching the board meetings, but can't make it to the Clubhouse? We now feature a live stream of board meetings— plus an archive of recent board meetings—on our website at www.tahoedonner.com/governance/meeting-documents

#tahoedonnerassociation facebook.com/tahoedonner twitter.com/tahoedonner instagram.com/tahoedonnerassociation

tahoedonner.com |

31

MAUI, HAWAII

Pat and Mar yjo Dowd, with John

and Suzi Scherer, enjoy the Aloha

state.

THE GREAT WALL

ir son, Kyle John and Leslie Hayes visit the ober 2016. and Ophelia Yao in China in Oct

JERUSALEM, ISRAEL

BA HAVANA , CerUt tra ere veled to Cuba wh

Weid John and Margie m the 50s and the classic ca rs fro they enjoyed all of as well as the ich are now ta xis— 60s—many of wh . d cuisine of Cuba culture, people, an

32

| Tahoe Donner News | August 2017

man at the The WestEric, Ryan, Drew, and Kerr y Schwartz Israel to celebrate ern Wall in the Old City of Jerusalem, Drew's bar mitz vah in July 2016.

Email your “Where in the World” 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.

NEW TO MARKET

13979s ki s lope WAy.com Spectacular views and custom construction awaits! This gorgeous retreat offers panoramic Northstar and Carson Range vistas plus a greenbelt and perennial garden setting. Spectacular great room with large decks, chef’s kitchen, dining alcove and two master suites. Impeccably maintained, amazing scenery, truly special!

Listed for $1,325,000 NEW TO MARKET

NEW TO MARKET

11620N orse Ave .com Here’s a delightfully, remodeled cabin nestled on a private, FLAT and sunny lot. Impeccably maintained, this four bedroom retreat offers a main level master suite with rear deck plus second bedroom. Upstairs, enjoy the loft plus 2 bedrooms (1 with private bath). Front deck and rear deck overlooking a lovely greenbelt like setting.

Listed for $698,500

Recent Elder Group Sold Listings

13390NorthwoodsBlvd.com 12442SaintBernardDrive.com Listed for $845,000 • Sold for $880,000 Listed for $739,000 • Sold for $710,000 Close of Escrow – 6.30.17 Close of Escrow – 7.7.17

14143H ANsel Ave .com Nestled in a tree house setting offering lovely views and backing to greenbelt!

Three bedrooms (spacious en-suite master with private deck) plus 2 nicely sized guest rooms. A well designed and functional, open floor plan offers soaring ceilings and cozy wood burning stove adjacent to the cheery kitchen.

Spacious front deck for indoor/outdoor living. Listed for $599,950

ELDER GROUP TAHOE

11722BennettFlatRoad.com 11880BadenRoad.com Listed for $624,500 • Sold for $620,000 Listed for $599,000 • Sold for $590,000 Close of Escrow – 7.11.17 Close of Escrow – 6.30.17

Alison Elder

Real Estate Advisor, Par tner 530.582.8103 tahoe@alisonelder.com eldergrouptahoerealestate.com alisonelder.evusa.com

PARK CITY | LAKE TAHOE | NEWPORT BEACH | SAN FRANCISCO | LAGUNA BEACH | LONG BEACH | ST. GEORGE ©2017 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principals of the Fair Housing Act. If your property is currently represented by a real estate broker, this is not an attempt to solicit your listing. CA BRE License #01399851

Tahoe Donner Single Family Home Sales

!ND$QUARTER$!+,-$vs.$!ND$QUARTER$!+,.

When it comes to understanding the Truckee/Tahoe market, trust the experts at Dickson Realty.

!ND$QUARTER$!+,-

$1,000,000 and higher

!ND$QUARTER$!+,.

$0– $499,999

17%

6%

23%

17%

$750,000– $999,999 $500,000– $749,999

28%

$0– $499,999

$1,000,000 and higher

49%

$750,000– $999,999

$500,000– $749,999

19%

$0– 11 Sold Listings $499,999 $433,100 Average Price

$0– 12 Sold Listings $499,999 $415,150 Average Price

43 Average Days On Market

21 Average Days On Market

$500,000– 31 Sold Listings $749,999 $623,661 Average Price

$500,000– 21 Sold Listings $749,999 $590,478 Average Price

$750,000– 18 Sold Listings $999,999 $844,888 Average Price

$750,000– 10 Sold Listings $999,999 $820,540 Average Price

$1,000,000 4 Sold Listings and higher $1,158,125 Average Price

$1,000,000 9 Sold Listings and higher ﹩"﹐"$%﹐%&' Average Price

33 Average Days On Market

53 Average Days On Market

44 Average Days On Market

96 Average Days On Market

41%

47 Average Days On Market

($ Average Days On Market

As of July 5, 2017, there are 75 single family homes active on the market ranging from $375,000 to $1,950,000, which equates to 22% less than last year at the same time. The majority of sales were again in the $500K-$750K price range, which also has the majority of active homes on the market.

Overall, average sales prices in Tahoe Donner for the 2nd quarter versus same period in 2016 dropped by 1%, median prices were up by 6% and average days on market decreased by 2 days, or 5%. With inventory so low, it is definitely a sellers’ market.

Summer is here, buyers are anxiously looking, so if you’re thinking of selling, NOW IS THE TIME TO GIVE US A CALL. Let one of our Tahoe Donner experts provide you with our extraordinary level of service!

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

012304535666 DicksonTruckee.com

Source: Tahoe Sierra Multiple Listing Service (TSMLS) as of July 5, 2017.