Tahoe Donner News May 2016 by Tahoe Donner Association

AFTER P16 MAY 2016 tahoedonner.com |

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

ON TOP OF THE WORLD Tahoe Donner resident and local alpinist Mimi Maki-Vadasz recounts her trek to the summit of Mount Everest. P20

CAPITAL PROJECTS PROCESS Your General Plan Committee shares the process in place to determine how major projects progress at Tahoe Donner.

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NEW GOLF MANAGER James Murtagh was recently promoted as the new golf manager, overseeing the shop, clinics, lessons, and more.

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allowing Tahoe Donner Association to

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President’s Message Looking back on an impressive winter

Boat Launch News Please take note of the new rules

Monthly Calendar Don’t miss our May events

Snowman Winner Thanks to all who participated!

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

Opt In, Go Paperless Help us go green by opting to go paperless

Senior Team Meet IT Manager Miah Cottrell

Giving Fund Helping Truckee Community Theater

From the ASO Building season and construction hours

Election 2016 Voter packets to be mailed this month

Review the March 18 board meeting

Road Construction An update on this summer’s projects

0 1 6Meeting Recap

Crabtree Canyon was recently purchased, preserve and protect more open space.

TAKE NOTE

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

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Respect Property Be a good neighbor: be courteous and respectful

tahoedonner.com |

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DEPARTMENTS

VOL. 17, NO. 5

WELCOME

MAY 2016 EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION STAFF Brinn Talbot Gretchen Sproehnle Jody Sergison Ashley Quadros

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Steve Miller, smiller@tahoedonner.com

Vice President

Jim Stang, jstang@tahoedonner.com

Treasurer

Jeff Bonzon, jbonzon@tahoedonner.com

Secretary

Courtney Murrell, cmurrell@tahoedonner.com

Director

Ron Wulff, rwulff@tahoedonner.com

Board of Directors

board@tahoedonner.com

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Postmaster Send address changes to Tahoe Donner News, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161

Hello again members. I’m having a hard

530-587-9400, Fax 530-587-9419

time deciding where to start my message since

there is so much good news concerning your

comdep@tahoedonner.com

before our newly reorganized General Plan Committee (GPC), in the near future. WOW, speaking of your GPC, it was almost

HOA. I guess the most obvious to all of you

six years ago when, as a regular member of

who were able to enjoy the first snow-filled

the committee, I first proposed we replace our

Creative Concepts Media + Marketing is

winter in four years were the five consecutive

Nordic center rather than spend $800,000

the exclusive advertising representative.

winter months (November – March) produc-

to remodel the old one. Even after numerous

ing record revenue for our association. Our

meetings, decision points, planning and design

three main snow dependent amenities (Down-

reviews and finally construction, I could not

Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive

hill, Cross Country, Snowplay) provided your

have imagined how well the new building

service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any

association in excess of $1.85 million of net

functioned and how well received it would

unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an

operating profit. This is in stark contrast to

be by our members. The Alder Creek Café’s

an operating loss of $500,000 in the 2013/14

success strained the capacity of its profession-

winter season. This highlights the fact that, in

ally designed kitchen and new equipment was

ment or recommendation by Tahoe Donner

order to remain conservative, lack of sufficient

required to be added. Several times during

Association or its board of directors of the

snow has been a major contributing factor in

heavy use periods I was given the opportunity

our operating budget assumptions. Given this

to act in my capacity as a board member to

successful start to the budget year and depen-

greet guests new to the facility. It was with

Donner Association, which is located at 11509

dent on a normal summer, I currently feel

immense pride that I was able to participate as

Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161.

confident that despite continued regulatory

tour guide highlighting all the functionalities

Each membership parcel receives one sub-

cost increases and expense pressures, your

of the new Alder Creek Adventure Center that

board will not have to raise the assessment in

truly make Tahoe Donner a world class Nordic

the coming year.

skiing center.

Advertising Sales

Phone 530-582-4100.

Publishing Information

infringement of that service mark right and is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorse-

products, services, or views contained therein. Tahoe Donner News (ISSN 1550-6061) is the official monthly publication of Tahoe

scription to a domestic address. Additional subscriptions are available at the cost of $25 each. Cost to produce and distribute this

Maybe of even greater importance was the

Maybe the most significant longer term

Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and

fact that sufficient snow allowed our members

news for our cross country trail system came

additional mailing offices. Member letters to

full access to all the fun activities served up by

in early April when your Board announced

our staff. All this success did bring to light the

the purchase of 640 acres of land directly to

fact that adequate parking needs to be a focus

the north of our Euer Valley; thus securing, in

of discussion and will be a topic to be brought

perpetuity, summer and winter access to this

publication is offset by advertising revenues.

Tahoe Donner are published in the Members section of tahoedonner.com, where publishing guidelines are available.

(Continued on p. 4) | Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

May

MONDAY, MAY 2

FOR ADDITIONAL MAY EVENTS SEE

LET’S GET TOGETHER ON PAGE 10 Rec Program Registration Begins

From rock climbing and geocaching to adventure days, our rec programs are a blast! See tahoedonner.com/rec-programs for info.

SATURDAY - SUNDAY, MAY 7-8

Mother’s Day Weekend

Moms deserve it! Bring the mothers in your life to get extra special treatment at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. See page 17.

WHOOO CAN SEE ME? Tahoe Donner member Andy Pasternak shared this photo of a Northern Pygmy-Owl perched in a tree near his front door. Walking home after cross country skiing last February, he noticed the stately bird with its piercing yellow eyes in a tree right in front of his condo, rushed to get his camera and started taking photos. Said Pasternak, “I could have sat there for an hour or more, snapping away, but I had to get back to work in Reno!” Northern Pygmy-Owls are widespread in the mountains of western North America, and hunt their prey during the day, making them a bit easier to encounter than their nocturnal cousins.

STARTING TUESDAY, MAY 10

AMENITY OPENINGS IN MAY

Lifeguard and CPR Classes Begin Train to become a certified lifeguard and you could save a life. Classes continue through May and June. See page 13.

THURSDAY, MAY 12

Pizza on the Hill Reopens

After a brief temporary closure, Pizza on the Hill will reopen; see page 17 for beer tasting and make-your-own-pizza events!

•

Driving Range: TBD

•

Tennis Center: May 7

•

Golf Course: May 13, conditions permitting

•

T-9 Grill: with Golf Course opening

•

Beach Club Marina: May 27

•

Bikeworks: May 27

•

Trout Creek Recreation Pool: May 28

SUMMER FUN GUIDES NOW AVAILABLE!

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

SUNDAY, MAY 15

Tennis Clinics Begin

Did you know we offer cardio, mini-camps, evening clinics and more? Don’t miss out! See page 11.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MAY 28-29

Bikeworks Kids Camp

Every weekend throughout the summer, kids can join a camp to explore and work on biking skills. See tahoedonner.com/bikeworks.

tahoedonner.com |

(Continued from p. 2) stunningly beautiful terrain. This purchase

property for which connectivity issues will be

our personal biases. I feel it is imperative that

was only achievable based on Tahoe Donner’s

a discussion of our ongoing partnership. Envi-

if you understand and agree with the above

history and continued commitment of envi-

sion a continuous trail system centered at the

that you make it a point to research the candi-

ronmental stewardship.

Alder Creek Adventure Center and connecting

dates and vote in the upcoming election. With

the Donner Lake Rim Trail through Tahoe

two board positions under consideration out

Tahoe Donner land on the floor of the Carpen-

Donner’s extensive network now joined with

of five total members the outcome could have

ter Valley through existing roads in the north-

the Crabtree Canyon and Carpenter Valley

major implications for the direction of your

east corner of the Euer Valley. I’ll be helping

systems.

association. Again, please make it a commit-

Additionally, we will now have access to

to update our summer trail map and hope to

I hope you are as proud as I am of all your

ment to vote. Thanks. Finally, I promised in my last message an

include all trails that currently exist on the

homeowners association has accomplished

newly acquired land. Additionally, we granted

in the last five years. We continue to have

update on the five-year plan for Trails Master

a conservation easement, significantly reduc-

discussions of ways to communicate better

Plan development permit in process with

ing the price, but retaining in house all our

with members and solicit feedback. As I have

Nevada County. By the time you read this we

rights and requirements for Nordic operations,

said before, a large part of our success is due

hopefully will have passed two key milestones.

winter grooming, summer trail development

in no small part to committed volunteerism of

On April 20, the plan will be before the Nevada

and forestry management.

our committee members and my fellow board

County Development Review Committee and

members as well as staff professionalism. A

April 25 is the final day for all agencies to

Donner is under contract to acquire are only

smoothly functioning board whose mem-

comment. Due to the purchase of the new land

the southern portion of the pristine Carpenter

bers truly understand their fiduciary duty of

parcels the Land Management Plan com-

Valley property that the Truckee Donner Land

inquiry and responsibility to put the associa-

pletion date has been postponed to the June

Trust (TDLT) is purchasing. In conjunction

tion’s interests foremost is a key component to

board meeting.

with our own Tahoe Donner Giving Fund,

our success. Special interests must play a key

please be on the lookout for announcements

role in homeowners association governance as

of special joint fund raising events. The

we each have our own reasons why we bought

TDLT furthermore is planning additional

into Tahoe Donner’s varied amenities. Yet, as

single-track trails on their newly acquired

board members, we need to be able to put aside

As you may know, the 640 acres that Tahoe

I hope this message finds you well. Till next time.

STEVE MILLER | BOARD PRESIDENT

NEW BOAT LAUNCH RULES AT BEACH CLUB MARINA PLAN AHEAD FOR BOATING SEASON If the water level allows, we will resume trailered boat launching at the marina. The information we gathered through the town hall meeting and survey process this past February was invaluable to helping us understand what is important to our membership. The feedback was reviewed by staff and the board of directors over the past few months, and the results are that a few new boat ramp rules will be introduced this season. Please review them below and call the Beach Club staff at 530-587-9460 if you have any questions. Each member who plans on launching a trailered vessel at the Beach Club will be required to register their vessel with Tahoe Donner. This entails providing the association with a copy of the vessel registration

of two people to launch a vessel with one observing the ramp and

and proof of insurance for the vessel with Tahoe Donner named as

launch zone for pedestrians and other hazards. Tahoe Donner staff

additionally insured. This can be done in person at the Member Ser-

cannot drive a vessel or the vehicle towing the trailer.

vices office at Northwoods Clubhouse or via a link on our website that

We will have designated staff to direct traffic on the launch ramp.

will be available soon. We will also provide on the link a release of lia-

Please follow the directions of the boat ramp monitor at all times when

bility waiver that must be signed by the vessel owner. Once registration

launching a vessel.

has been completed and the waiver signed, you will receive a sticker to

All members or guests on board your vessel will be charged a daily

present to marina staff that all these requirements have been met, and

access fee even if they do not plan on using the Beach Club property

you will be permitted to launch. We encourage you to do this well in

other than the boat ramp.

advance of the day you are planning to launch; however, you will be able to fulfill the registration requirements at the Beach Club as well. No launching vessels alone is permitted. You must have a minimum

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

Again, please feel free to call the Beach Club manager, Ali Kovach, at 530-587-9460 with any questions concerning the changes to the launch policies.

BASSETT FLOORING is family owned and operated and has

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TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS

Member Communications (area code 530) Member Services 587-9400 info@tahoedonner.com General Manager 587-9431 gm@tahoedonner.com Contact Member Services to be transferred to other departments. Amenities Tahoe Donner Campground 5 87-9462 campground@ tahoedonner.com Beach Club Marina 587-9460 marina@tahoedonner.com Corporate Blue Logo: Bikeworks 582-9694 bikeworks@tahoedonner.com Can be used on white or light photo Cross Country Ski Center 587-9484 xcski@tahoedonner.com background 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 Unacceptable Uses of Dickson Realty Logo The Lodge 587-9455 lodge@tahoedonner.com Pizza On The Hill 582-9669 pizza@tahoedonner.com Recreation Info Hut 587-9413 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com Tennis Center 587-9474 tennis@tahoedonner.com Trails 582-9672 trails@tahoedonner.com Trout Creek Rec. Center 587-9437 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Association Committee Chairs Architectural Standards, Rod Whitten aso@tahoedonner.com Covenants, Al Noyes alandjosi@gmail.com Elections, Bette Rohrback truckeebette@yahoo.com Finance, Art King aiking156@att.net General Plan, Dwight Walker walker.dwight@outlook.com Giving Fund Co-Chair, Merle Fajans tdgf@tahoedonner.com Giving Fund Co-Chair, Dick Gander tdgf@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Association Chartered Club Presidents Bridge Club, Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net Friends of TD Trails, B.R. Levine tdtrails@gmail.com Rowing Club, Dot Mace dotmace@me.com Dickson Realty Tagline Senior Alpine Ski, Michael Eyton-Lloyd hmsmike1@aol.com Tennis, John McGregor jmpj1964@gmail.com. 9-Holers, Marianne Bowers mariannebowers@hotmail.com Men’s Golf, Patrick Gemma patgemma1@att.net Women’s Golf, Bettye Carmichael ibboop@suddenlink.net Hiking Club, Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net Corporate Blue Logo: Quilt Club, Linda Brush sewlinda@aol.com Can be used on white or light photo Junior Golf Club, Jean Lai jslai@comcast.net background Corporate Blue Logo TD 4-Wheelers Club, Bill Ratcliff td4wheelers@gmail.com Equestrian Club, Susan Terrell terrellsf@earthlink.net

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PLANNING FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN TAHOE DONNER HOW ARE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PAID FOR?

benefit for members are prioritized in a list

sees the word “estimate” or “quote” they will

and presented to the board by staff and the

realize that the finalized and defined costs

Tahoe Donner was created over 40 years

member-volunteer General Plan Committee

and schedules have not yet been determined.

ago. Over time, infrastructure has aged and

(GPC). Over the last 10 years, more than $16.4

Those of us who have done home improve-

member preferences have changed, reflecting

million of major improvements have been

ments know that the scope and costs of our

the demographics of a younger and more fam-

made to Tahoe Donner assets by this process.

projects change as we learn about challenges

ily-oriented membership. To counter the dete-

WHY CREATE A NEW CAPITAL PROJECTS SPENDING PROCESS?

and opportunities. Only when we have the

rioration of aging infrastructure and reflect the values expressed in our Strategic Plan, Tahoe Donner created the Development Fund

Over the last three months, the GPC and

final design and scope in hand with hard quotations from vendors can we have a dependable budget of time and money.

for capital improvements. Instead of funding

staff, assisted by members with specific

capital improvements through special assess-

expertise in capital planning, documented a

ments, Tahoe Donner sets aside $250 of each

new Capital Projects Spending Process (CPSP).

member’s annual assessment in the Develop-

The starting point of this documentation was

website. Included in the new website will be

ment Fund, which avoids financial surprises

the work plans that Tahoe Donner has used

a way to easily track the progress of capital

for members and provides sustainable finan-

successfully for years. The end point is a struc-

improvement projects. At the same time, other

cial support for capital improvements.

tured, informed and transparent process for

communications such as email, the Tahoe

HOW IS THE DEVELOPMENT FUND SPENT?

taking capital projects from idea to comple-

Donner News magazine, town hall meetings,

tion. This ensures comprehensive evaluation

and more will be used to inform members and

during project development, accountability

other stakeholders.

Ideas for improvement come from many sources. •

•

ties provide feedback about deficiencies

stakeholders.

Projects Spending Process flowchart (at right),

they see, such as the deterioration of the

WHAT IS THE NEW CPSP?

and soon the Land Management Plan will be

Members who use Tahoe Donner ameni-

The CPSP is a “stage-gate” business process

Staff documents “pinch-points,” such as

where the necessary tasks are grouped into

the lack of sufficient parking during peak

stages that must be completed in order to trig-

use periods.

ger the next gate of funds needed to proceed.

Members experience attractions at other

The GPC, staff and board of directors uses this

locations and express their desire to see

method to provide clarity and accountability

them at Tahoe Donner.

for all stakeholders.

Repair costs grow so large that a total

The CPSP has six stages, which are shown in the infographic on the facing page at right:

of this would be the Alder Creek Adven-

Idea generation

ture Center replacing the Cross Country/

Project selection

Equestrian Center.

Conceptual design

Regulatory or technology changes provide

Final design

an opportunity for cost savings such as

5. Construction

the addition of solar power.

All of these ideas are evaluated and balanced against the funds available in the Development Fund. Those ideas that provide the greatest

In the meantime, the current website contains the Strategic Plan, the detailed Capital

replacement is more prudent. An example

•

Tahoe Donner is currently redesigning its

ongoing transparency for members and other

older locker rooms at Trout Creek. •

for the investment of time and finances, and

WHAT DOES THE NEW CPSP DO FOR ME?

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

Post-project review

To reduce confusion, the CPSP also contains clear definitions of terms. When a member

added. All new projects will be evaluated to be consistent with these overarching visions. The GPC is beginning the work on master plans for each amenity which will involve input and feedback from members. These will also provide guidance for project selection. For example, the Downhill Ski Area’s focus as “The Best Place to Begin” helped direct the installation of snowmaking to its Learning Center. Once the new master plans are completed, they will be available on the website. Your participation in the capital projects spending and planning processes is essential in keeping Tahoe Donner the vibrant mountain community that we all love. If you’d like to volunteer to be involved on a GPC Task Force, please contact either Dwight Walker or Michael Sullivan at GPC@tahoedonner.com.

SENIOR TEAM

Cup 2014 World le to catch a a, Brazil. ib rit MIah was ab Cu in in person soccer match

One of Miah’s passio ns is traveling the wo rld; he is pic tured above on a trip to the Isle of Arran, Scotland .

iles than uent flier m gly more freq n enjoys traveling With seemin te of selves , Miah pilots them s. as cl first

MEET MIAH COTTRELL, IT MANAGER BY GRETCHEN SPROEHNLE When your computer goes on the fritz, who you gonna call? Miah Cottrell … that’s who. Roaming the back hallways of a computer and staring at a screen all day may seem like a dreary way to spend your day, but fortunately, with Tahoe Donner’s many amenities spread across several locations within the association, Information Technology (IT) Manager Cottrell gets out of his windowless office often. Just think about Tahoe Donner from an IT standpoint for a minute. With 15 network locations, over 50 supervisors and managers, and up to 500 employees in high season, plus their computers, laptops, a network Phone system, and point of sale systems, Tahoe Donner has more technology than most people realize at first glance. Add a vast resort management system that incorporates nearly all amenity operations in addition to tracking our 22,000-plus members both in person and online, and you’ve only scratched the surface of Cottrell’s job duties. The talented IT manager is the guide who helps Tahoe Donner navigate the always-changing lab-

yrinth that is modern technology. His official duty is to oversee all technical aspects of the organization, which includes identifying, proposing, developing and implementing technology initiatives. He rarely escapes a room without someone saying, “Hey Miah, can you look at my computer real quick?” He manages to find time for everyone, helping with every glitch large or small. “The most rewarding aspect of my job is when we implement a new technology and it makes life easier on members or staff,” Cottrell said. Often, this follows months of planning, hundreds of hours of programming, collaboration between departments, and a significant capital investment. “I feel a great deal of satisfaction when everything comes together and all the work starts to pay dividends.” Back in 2001, he was attracted to the mountain lifestyle here and was soon hired on as a help desk technician at Tahoe Donner. Working his way up the ranks quickly to a computer network technician and MIS manager, Cottrell’s love of technology

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

helped to land him in his current position of IT manager in 2005, and he has never looked back. Keeping up with constantly changing technology is a challenge. “Staying up to speed on emerging technology is the hardest thing about my job, but it is also what makes it amazing,” Cottrell explained. To stay up to date, he reads about emerging technology, communicating and collaborating about challenges and solutions with others in similar roles and organizations. Cottrell’s interest in computers dates back to grade school. “I believe I was in fourth grade when I got my first computer, a Mac Classic,” he said. “When I was 12, I began installing and upgrading hardware and software. When I was 16, I worked at a local computer shop fixing computers. I can honestly say that I have never wanted to do anything else.” Originally from Redding, Calif., Cottrell’s family moved to a small farming community in the Sacramento Valley called Orland, when he was 9. He grew up in a large Italian family with several sets of grandparents, aunts, uncles

and cousins. With “not much going on,” Cottrell and his friends, who were all fascinated with the emerging technology of computers, would spend their spare time creating new ways to challenge each other with computer games and skills. Perhaps not surprisingly, the former “Trekie” still loves to watch old sci-fi movies, and loves to go back to his home town to spend time with his relatives. “My family in Orland actually did a three-day ‘retreat’ one time, and we all sat around and watched every episode of Star Wars, backto-back, for hours on end!” When he’s not in front of a screen, Cottrell enjoys traveling the world. “I am somewhat obsessed with travel and far away places. I have what my mother calls a ‘wanderlust,’” Cottrell said. “The last three years my goal was to maintain American Airlines’ Executive Platinum status by traveling 100,000 miles a year. I had some amazing experiences, but in spite of all the places I’ve been and seen, I am never disappointed to come back home to Tahoe Donner.”

JAMES MURTAGH NAMED AS NEW GOLF MANAGER James Murtagh was recently promoted to golf manager of Tahoe Donner Golf Course. Murtagh brings to the golf team and visitors alike a magnitude of experience, including 19 consecutive seasons of working in the golf business, 18 of which have been at Tahoe Donner Golf Course. With several years of management and ten years of experience as a golf professional, Murtagh is ready to kick off the golf season with great greens and new energy. “I’m really grateful to have this

James Murtagh was recently promoted to golf manager.

opportunity,” said Murtagh, originally from Vermont. “The golf club members and staff members have always been my west coast family.” Murtagh, who spends his winters managing a ski school of about 80 instructors, enjoys playing golf and teaching golf at Tahoe Donner. “Teaching golf and skiing for years has taught me that to be an effective instructor you must have a good eye and be able to adapt to different teaching and learning styles,” explained Murtagh, who has been teaching golf at Tahoe Donner for a number of years. “Golf is a sport where you are constantly working on your swing or on course management to improve your scores.” Ironically, as much as Murtagh enjoys the sport now, back in his adolescence he had no interest in golfing. “I didn’t start playing golf until I was 17,” he recalled. “I was always into skiing and tennis, but never really had a desire to play golf. Finally, a friend of mine

who was an avid golfer talked me into trying it and I fell in love with golf instantly.” Today Murtagh loves golf and even has a favorite hole on Tahoe Donner Golf Course. “I would have to say no. 15 because it’s my only double eagle.” Stop in to say hello to Murtagh. He will be available to assist members, guests and the general public with golfing needs all summer long. For more information, call the pro shop at 530-587-9443.

TAHOE DONNER GOLF COURSE IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND SCHEDULED TO START THE SEASON MAY 13, CONDITIONS PERMITTING. THE DRIVING RANGE WILL OPEN MAY 5 OR SOONER. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TAHOE DONNER GOLF COURSE AND SEASON PASSES AND PACKAGES, VISIT TAHOEDONNER.COM/GOLF.

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ALYSON STETZ

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

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Get ready for opening day! Conditions

ON OE D TA H

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Golf Tips from the Pro

feedback was reviewed by staff and the board

of the fairway for a better approach.

key is to identify the optimal spots for your game (your shot shape). Don’t get caught up in where your playing partners are hitting the

Also, take into account conditions that

of directors over the past few months, and the

include elevation changes, hazards and dog-

results are that a few new boat ramp rules will

legs. You may be able to hit driver within a

ER Nreview be introduced this season. Please DON

tougher downhill or uphill lie. It’s better to tee

that sweet looking draw that you wish you had

ER ONN

MEM BE H

Y OW P L A

OE TA H policy in detail our new boat launching

short wedge of the green, but you’re left with a

ball, especially if they can outdrive you or hit

O TA H

Istaff at 530on page 7 and call the Beach Club EN P TY

Most golf holes present multiple opportunities, both from the tee and into the green. The

R EA if you have any questions. A587-9460 I K S L your second shot from a level lie. As often as W N H I inL your ALI KOVACH | O D Play your shot. you can, play the golf course backward BEACH CLUB MARINA MANAGER ER ONN So, what is the best way to determine this? mind toTcreate a solid plan going forward. OE D Y R TA H OUN It is paramount that you know your game.O S S C Taking private lessons with one of our R AC H ICN C E B R S with each club—not ? E B Know yourMdistances instructors at the beginning of the season can EM MAR NER T TD DON B M E E yardages—but S career what you can realistically really help your game,TAregardless if you’ve E U HOE R C L RV I on A Cbasis. Also know your shot S EWorking C ENT E R s i hit been playing throughout winter. E OonIaNregular n B n Jshape, M te R ME N N Efundamentals of your swing can greatly whether straight or one that curves. O E D Ocore NER N H O A T AY OE D The range is a great place to get loose and OW improve it NtoT E R TA H You owe E C N P L all facets of your game. S N A The 2016 tennis season is about to officially T R I this seatweak your swing, yourself to work smarter, U not ESharder Rbut always take note of Q NNE E O D K A especially if that isER CRson E E on your game… you’ll be glad you did! start with our opening day slated for Saturhow H O E hittingA TAyou’re I theR Eball, K S D ALD N L L U I day, May 7.EThis K summer will include some of E W N Ha pre-round warmup. PGRO R M C D Oduring A T C U mostN Tpopular Nothing beats N a Elittle E R programs from years pastO RT H WOO R local knowledge; you T R Oour E C DON E N P OO L C O as well as many new options to keep you on E can probably visualize R TA H S Eevery inch of fairway R B U U O L C C E R grow your game to new your toes and help you L F course. But what about when the at your NN G Ohome B EACAHR I NA E DO A H O out theKSummer T levels. Check Fun Guide, the course is less familiar or you’ve never played it? RS M O W E K I B website, the monthly tennis Tahoe Donner First of all, don’t be afraid to ask how far N T E R E R C NNE s i O n calendar and of course, all the upcoming D out a bunker is or which side oftthe e nfairway OE TA Hthe BeachDClub S Weather permitting, opens R A ER issues of Tahoe Donner News for all the latest opens your partners have played the golf N Nif Oup I27F EatG7Ua.m. L R E OE D for the season on May and the T R N TA Hcourse. Also, E your Tahoe Donner Tennis Center has to offer E ONN N C take note of every visualTAcue A I ER OE D R Marina Grill will have a limited menu to start. H T S O N N2016 summer season. during S C E Dthe I O T EQ U E whether it is on the scorecard or tee marker. H A U TA N Please join us for a fun summer filled with AQyou AT I OFitness E Best of all, doE R your own scouting while R C E N R N Clinic and Schedule great events, rentals, programs and, of course, DO are Look atTthe next hole as you’re HOE N TAplaying. E The 2016 clinic schedule is set and this lots of water and sunshine. L EV OOD S W going H T R S P E CtoIAyour ball and take note of the fairway, O summer we will continue to offer many of our N P OO LPolicy hazards and how that sets up to the green. New Boat Launching clinic favorites from heart-pumping cardio R N N Efat For most players, the idea is OtoE hit D Othe If the water level allows, we will resume H tennis to instructional theme classes, as well A T KSof R O part of the fairway. Teeing up onEthe side trailered boat launching at the marina. The W as many newer programs including mini BIK trouble information we gathered through the town E R and hitting away from it is basic stratN N camps, TRX, yoga and much, much more. All E D O egy. But also think about playing your second AHO hall meeting and survey process this past FebS D R of our scheduled clinics and play dates are L I F EG UAshot. If the green is open on the right side, for ruary was invaluable to helping us understand slated to begin on Monday, May 16. D off with a fairway wood or even an iron H O Eand hit

in your bag.

UBLIC AM

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P & INFORM

I VAT E A M

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example, think about aiming for the right side

AT T H E

what is important to our membership. The

tahoedonner.com |

I VAT E A M

event a Gold Cup with 2x the ranking points up for grabs in all divisions. Signup is available online at www.norcal.usta.com.

Junior Tennis Camps The return of our Junior Tennis Camps are a welcome addition to the summer program as we look to immerse our tennis players of the future in up to three hours of daily instruc-

tion and play-based learning. The program will feature a flexible schedule to fit your

ER O N Nchild’s other activities with a pay-for-play OE D TA H

L AY

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P & INFORM

the rest of the Junior Clinic schedule will start Monday, June 20.

Spring has sprung at Tahoe Donner Tennis

C R E E RK T U O R T onCallE NtheT Etennis activities at more information EC Rthis B U L Tahoe Donner summer. C Memorial Weekend SeasonBKick-Off EAC HR I NA See you on the courts. A the This tennis club-sponsored eventMgets season started IAN MINDELL | DIRECTOR OF TENNIS E N T EoffR with a bang as it gets you C s i n n on the courts for a great afternoon of team t eout the pro shop for a complete list of events or

Ladies Drill and Weekly Play Dates

buzzing from court to court as you fight for Saturday, May 28 - Round Robin: 2 - 5 p.m. -

Tuesdays: Ron Marks Memorial Men’s Day,

OOD S W H T R N O P OOatL Eighth Annual NTRP Tournament BBQ and Potluck: 5 p.m.

9 - 10:30 a.m.

KS I K E WO R

O TA H

Tahoe N E RDonner DON

E I VAT E A M

The Tahoe Donner Tennis Center is hosting S

Wednesdays: Ladies Day Drill and Play, 9

Tuesdays: 3.5+ Ladies Night 5-7 p.m. Cost: $2

its Eighth Annual NTRP tournament on a.m. – 12 p.m. 90Nminute clinic - 90 minutes of R E N TA L S & R E P ER O N D Friday, June 3 - Sunday, June 5. The NorCal E O TA H $22 members; $27 guests play. Cost: branch of the USTA has designated this year’s E Men’s Night 5-7 p.m. Cost: Wednesdays: 4.0+ BE E H

RDS L I F EG UA AT T H

$2 members, $5 guests

Fridays: Ladies Day, 9 - 10:30 a.m. Sundays: Mixed Doubles Day, 9 - 10:30 a.m.

USTA 4.0+ Mixed Doubles Sectional Championships Tahoe Donner is hosting the USTA 40+ Mixed Doubles Sectional Championships this year. We are excited to see all of the participants who have won their local leagues and district events, playoff at Tahoe Donner, Northstar and the Incline Village Tennis Centers. They are vying for a chance to compete in the nationals later in the year. Come out and watch some great tennis in the 6.0, 7.0, 8.0 and 9.0 divisions.

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

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every point to help your team to victory. Date:

members, $5 guests

I VAT E A M tennis. The exciting format will have you

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O N Nget all the tennis you dates each week, you E Dwill

T E R finding a C E Nabout need without having toNworry A I R Q U ESTcalls. fourth orEmaking

EV RAMS &

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care of the rest. With all of our organized play

N ME

this summer is to just signup and let us take

I VAT E A M

The easiest way to get out and play tennis

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so give us a call at 530-587-9474 or stop by

U N T RY N

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S N OW P

AR EA I K S L WNHIL ONN OE D TA H

N E DO

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ES meaning you’ll only pay for your I Csystem, V R E only S R MEM BE child’s time on the courts. This program and

Member and guest registration is now open (8 a.m. Monday, May 2, for members and Monday, May 9, for guests). All programs can be explored in detail in our Summer Fun Guide and on tahoedonner.com. Register online at tahoedonner.com/shop. Registration

is required at least 48 hours in advance for all

May 6, and the films are rated G and PG. Copy-

recreation programs. Events and programs

right rules do not allow us to print movie titles;

are subject to cancellation due to conditions

please call Member Services at 530-587-9400

and/or insufficient registration. Notification of

to find out what’s playing.

cancellation will be made 24 hours in advance.

Thursday Trivia Night

For more information, contact our Rec Hut at 530-582-9646.

Of all of our great programs, be sure you don’t

ED AHO CallingTall individuals ages 14 and up: Do

Y OW P L A

event is free! Event will be cancelled if insuffiA TI

R N N E 6:30 – 8 p.m. Get ready to test your brain D Ofrom

V I CforESa chance to win prizes! This weekly R E power S R EM BE

miss our Recreation Leadership Academy!TA H O E

Recreation Leadership E R Academy* ONN

Trivia Night takes place every Thursday night, except May 5, inside Pizza on the Hill

P & INFORM

cient participation by 7:15 p.m.

S N recreation and teaching you enjoy outdoor PU

LIC others? Are you looking for a job in the recre-

ation field? If so, the Tahoe Donner Recreation

REEK C T U O T R C ENT E R R EC

Leadership Academy is the place you need to be. This course will give you the skills needed

LU B C H C A B E AinR Iour in the most popular recreation activities NA Get ready for summer with these great M industry. Your training R will include learning to programs! E T N E C guide beginning to intermediate level hiking t en n is I VAT E A M

I V AT E A M

excursions, beginner level bouldering, rock PR EN IT

Lifeguard Training

I VAT E A M

climbing and belaying excursions. Candi-

If you are 15 years or older and looking for

adults while learning to lead activities ranging

OOD S W H T R N O particicompletion of this training course, OO L P R pantsNwho E meet the course requirements will O N OE D TA H receive aKcourse R S completion certificate as well B I KasE WtheO American Red Cross certification in I VAT E A M

from archery to hikes to field games. Upon

N TA

E LS & R

TI ON A E R C E R

AHO

T in the aquatics industry, the Tahoe Donner S

training in working with children, teens and

N E R career a great summer job or a challenging DON NT

dates will also receive theory and practical

American Red CrossP Lifeguarding certifiRO EV E

to guide and instruct all levels of participants

GRAMS &

cation program will give you an advantage! Lifeguarding certification will qualify you to work as part of a committed team of certified lifeguards while you work together to provide safety and protection to aquatic patrons.

Wilderness and Remote First Aid. Recreation

You could save a life! Your certification will

Leadership certification or other equivalent

provide you the necessary skills to prevent and

qualifications are required for all Tahoe

respond to water related emergencies. Passing

Donner recreation staff. Prerequisite: Current

the prerequisite skills test during the first

certification in CPR/AED.

class and attendance at all scheduled classes

Attendance at all scheduled class sessions

ful completion, participants will obtain the

DATES: SATURDAYS MAY 28, JUNE 4 AND 11 FROM 9-5 P.M.; SUNDAY JUNE 5 AND 12 FROM 9-5 P.M.

American Red Cross Lifeguard certificate, as

*If you are hired onto the Trout Creek Recreation staff and fulfill your season commitment, your course fee will be refunded less a $35 materials fee. Apply at tahoedonner.com

ON-GOING FREE FUN Friday Family Movie Night Bring a favorite pillow and blanket to Northwoods Clubhouse, kick the feet up, and enjoy both classic and new movies. Movie nights begin at 6:30 p.m. on Friday nights, except

that gets you the job over other candidates. WSI certified instructors are also often paid at a higher rate than non-certified aquatics staff and WSI certification is a requirement for all Tahoe Donner swim instructors. Passing the pre-requisite skills test during the first class and attendance at all scheduled classes is required for certification. DATES AND TIMES: TUESDAY, JUNE 14 FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 3 – 8 P.M. SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 9 A.M. - 5 P.M. WHERE: TROUT CREEK REC CENTER COST*: MEMBERS $225, GUESTS $250

is required for certification. Upon success-

required for certification.

COST: $150 MEMBERS; $175 GUESTS/PUBLIC

aquatics industry and will often be the factor

well as, CPR/AED and First Aid for the Professional Rescuer. DATES AND TIMES: TUESDAY/THURSDAY MAY 10, 12, 17, 19, 3 - 7 P.M. SATURDAY, MAY 14, 21, 9 A.M. - 5 P.M. WHERE: TROUT CREEK REC CENTER COST*: MEMBERS $225, GUESTS $250

Water Safety Instructor Course If you are 16 years or older and enjoy swimming and teaching others, this course will give you the skills needed to teach all levels of swimming to both youth and adults. WSI certification is a competitive edge in the

tahoedonner.com |

tahoedonner.com/golf/clubs or pick one up at

NORTHWOODS POOL

Lifeguard Review Courses These review courses are intended for those individuals who have successfully completed a Red Cross Lifeguarding and First Aid course within the last four years and/or a CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer course within the last two years.

Northwoods Clubhouse at the Member Ser-

Pool opens: Saturday, June 18 Pool closes: Monday, Sept 5

vices office. Please direct any questions to our

Saturday, June 18 – Sunday, Aug. 14

nebowers@hotmail.com or call 530-550-9079.

club president, Marianne Bowers, at marian-

Daily | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Men’s Golf Club

Monday, Aug. 115 – Sunday, Sept 4

CPR/AED for The Professional Rescuer Review Course DATE: SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Planning for the 2016 golf season is well

Weekends only | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

underway. The men’s club had a good response to the survey we sent to our active members TA H

Monday, Sept 5

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V ENT E L A Weekdays | 11:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. I C SPE Weekends | 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. T

*June 20 – Aug. 19, the Recreation Pool is closed for Tahoe Donner Aquatics programs until 11:30 a.m., Monday – Friday. Also, on July 2 and 3, the pool will close at 4 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 22 – Monday, Aug. 29 Daily | 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug 30 – Sunday, Sept. 25 Weekdays | 3 - 7 p.m. Weekends | 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Monday, Sept 5 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

SH HE RE ARE INTE AT T H E

9-Holers Women’s Golf Club The 9-Holers will kick off the 2016 golf season with our Spring Breakfast on May 19 at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. We follow NNE

DO E pre-season breakfast with optional golf at AHO

R SE U O C F GOL T

Ponderosa Golf Course, weather permitting. I

EN P U our M We are scheduled for B L I C A opening day of

regular play at Tahoe Donner Golf Course on May 26, again weather permitting. These outings are just the beginning of a season filled with great golf and social events. If you are thinking of joining the 9-Holers then this is definitely the time before any of the fun NNE

E V E N Towners this L are non-Tahoe Donner property A I C E SP season but space in this category is limited.

O is missed. We areH taking O E D a few members that TA

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

N T RY U S O D C R S A UCnew R O Shandicapping of holes when the course L I F EGthe is played from the combo silver/green tees. This

CS L U B AJQOUAI NT I A C BE

exciting event.

R RE EP R DONNE N TA LS & R NNE Echange we hope all will appreciate O O D H Another is A E T O H TA

ERS

You can download an application on

TA have more opportunity to participate in this

DON

KWS N H I L L S R O W O E BIK D D HOE

NNE

O ED Saturday, June 18 – Sunday, Aug. 21* AHO

R family vacations, we hope our membersOwill N N E TA H O E

AT T H E

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was done with the help of the pro shop after collecting data from score cards over the course of last summer. Please note the new score cards

OE TA H

DON

R IA N T S E The Men’s and Women’s Golf Clubs will U Q E K REE again organize a course clean-up day later in ER C D L A R OtoU NtheD opening. More information May justPprior G M A C will be sent and posted regarding this event. when you play the course this summer.

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New members to the Men’s Club are always welcome. Our goal this year is to increase membership and participation in club tournaments including the Wednesday games. Our

ONN

ED plan is to promote tournaments Tthat A H Opromote

L I F EG UA

camaraderie and meeting new people who R

RDS E

BE H N Elove of the game. Applications AT T H Efor share in Nthe E DO

CS AorQonUAtheT Ibulletin board in the hallway outside

O TA H

membership can be found at Member Services, BE

AT T H E

the pro shop. See you on the links.

NER

C EN TY

SALLY JONES | CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREA MANAGER

Weekends | 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

tournament of the season and after Labor Day when there might be less conflicts with

E RM B O N NM E T TD O EED TA HM E

Weekdays | 3 - 7 p.m.

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pass for 2016-17.

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few years. By making the event the last major

Pool closes: Sunday, Sept. 25

Saturday, May 28 – Friday, June 17

Pool opens: Saturday, May 28

OUND R G P M CAin the fall to buy your season year. Stay tuned A L you on the trails again next We hope to see

N EST R IA in the event. Participation in the EQ Uparticipation Club Championship has declined over the last

perfect: great snow, great weather, and a great EK

VAT E A M

R SE

TROUT CREEK L F C O UNI O G RECREATION POOL P U B L I C A M E

C ENT E R

ON OE D was TA H to see if such a change might increase

NER

the Club Championship with the Invitational PR I NER

fee will be refunded less a $50 materials fee. Apply at

ENT E R C s i n t en

The reason the board decided to switch

staff and fulfill your season commitment, your course

be on Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11.

volunteers at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski

CRE DER

urday. Therefore, the Club Championship will

Thanks to all our customers, staff and

new facility.

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event rather than changing it to a Friday/Sat-

*If you are hired onto the Trout Creek Aquatics

DON

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Area for a spectacular season. The recipe was

COST*: MEMBERS $112, GUESTS $125

OE TA H

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Championship remain a Saturday/Sunday

WHERE: TROUT CREEK REC CENTER

EM TD M

DATES AND TIMES: SATURDAY, JUNE 4 S H - 5 P.M. RE AND SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 9 A.M. AR INTE

(Includes CPR/AED for the Professional S BER

A C LU B

NE DON

N T RY U O C S C ROS O TA H

Lifeguard Review Course

tahoedonner.com

TA H

COST: MEMBERS $82, GUESTS $104

JOIN

EA I ofARmembers K S that the vast majority either L L I NH D OnoWpreference had or preferred that the Club D O Ndata collected it was clear From someOof E the

WHERE: TROUT CREEK REC CENTER

Rescuer and First Aid)M E E T

S N OW P

last month, receiving over 120 respondents.

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

TIME: 9 A.M. - 1 P.M.

ON OE D

Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club Spring is here and it’s time to start swinging

2016 TDWGC Officers: President: Bettye Carmichael

soon as possible to reserve your spot. Finally, we hope everyone will mark their

Vice President: Glenda Bradley

calendars for this year’s National Trails Day

to non-Tahoe Donner property owners. If you

Secretary: Carol Louderback

hike on June 4. This hike will feature Carpen-

are interested in joining us, we play 18-hole

Treasurer: Kathie Schwartz

ter Valley, a beautiful spot located just to the

rounds every Tuesday from May through

Membership: Bettee Palmer

north of Tahoe Donner’s recently purchased

October (weather permitting). We have sev-

Tournament Director: Margaret Paine

Crabtree Canyon.

eral in-house tournaments and opportunities

Assistants: Helen Meuser, Bonnie Easton,

to play in PWGA tournaments at various golf

Barbara Skiles

Trails Club in general, please visit us online at

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

Auditor: Meg McShannic

TDTrails.org, or email the club at

Eclectic: Connie Kobayashi

TDTrails@gmail.com.

your golf clubs. Our 2016 membership is open

When you join the TDWGC, you will enjoy these special benefits: • Ladies’ golf tee times: the club sets aside highly sought-after tee times on Tuesdays for TDWGC. During these TDWGC events, you will play with golfers of your own ability, enjoy a friendly format game of the day, and make lasting friendships. • In addition to the weekly golf games, the TDWGC also organizes fun and competitive ladies’ golf events. These include the Match Play, Invitational or Member-Guest, and Club Championships. We currently have approximately 80 playing members. TDWGC would like to welcome any Tahoe Donner woman who enjoys playing golf to join us. For an application, email the Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club Membership Director, Bettee Palmer, at betgreg@sbcglobal. net, visit our website at https://sites.google. com/site/tdgolfwomen/home or stop by the

2016 Club Championship: Meg McShannic 2016 Guest Day: Ingrid Sigovich/Assistant Glenda Bradley 2016 President’s Cup: Kathy Moore Handbook/Handicaps/Website: Lydia Stang Hospitality: Connie Kobayashi PWGA: Leslie Williams Rules: Jean Lai Greens Committee: Diane Kalliam Publicity Chair: Vicky Pyle Golf tip: Make your practice time fun! It can make practice time so much more fun

June 14 June 21 July 26 Aug. 16 &17 Aug. 23 Sept. 27

8 a.m. - With luncheon 8 a.m. - President’s Cup kick off/Match Play 8 a.m. - One Day Guest Day 8 a.m. - TDWGC Club Championship 8 a.m. - Luncheon and awards 9 a.m. - Tahoe Donner mixer with 9-Holers

there were Jeeps. They ranged from stock vehicles to the most outrageous rock crawlers that looked like they could go over anything! When we got to Moab, we had some extra time to explore Arches National Park. I think

get out and practice with a friend. By adding a social element, you may find that time goes

The Friends of Tahoe Donner Trails Club is natural surroundings.

weather permitting)

Jeeps. It was amazing; everywhere you looked

the ball does land and stay in the bucket. Or,

2016 Schedule:

Play day (location TBD

of the world among approximately 3,000 other

ful feeling of accomplishment and fun when

for those who value and enjoy Tahoe Donner’s

May 31

March. We had a great time in the Jeep capital

focus your practice and provide the wonder-

tdwgclub@gmail.com.

8 a.m. - Big/Little Sisters

the 50th annual Easter Jeep Safari in late

an opportunity to hike to the famous Delicate

Friends of Tahoe Donner Trails Club

Donner Golf Course

our club Jeeps drove to Moab, Utah to attend

we saw most of the arches in the park and had

house. If you have questions or need to contact

Golf play days at Tahoe

Wow! What a blast! 24 members in twelve of

pitch shots to land into a bucket can help to

much faster and is more enjoyable.

Tuesdays

TD 4 Wheelers

if you have the right attitude. Trying to get

Member Services office at Northwoods Clubthe club board, send an email to

For all the details about these events and the

This season we’ll kick things off on June 25 by partnering with the Watershed Council for a first of its kind peripatetic River Walk to highlight a number of ways to protect and pre-

ROOF PAINTING ROGERS PAINTING Specializing in Home Inspection Compliance

Metal Roof Painting since 2003 (530) 587-3452 CA Lic. #484113

serve the Truckee River Watershed starting right in our own yards. Beginning in July we’ll join the Trails Department to host volunteer trail work days on the third Saturday of every month. This year we expect to concentrate on the delightful, but deteriorating Hillside Trail beside Alder Creek. The Weed Warriors will return once again on Aug. 6 for another in-depth, educational weed walk here in Tahoe Donner. Space is limited, so if you’d like to attend, please email the club as

Woman Owned Business CARPET • UPHOLSTERY Call for your FREE Estimate

DRY IN 1 HOUR! • Environmentally Safe • Pet Friendly • Satisfaction Guaranteed

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tahoedonner.com |

Arch. The trail is somewhat steep on slick rock

On Thursday and Friday of that week, there

and has some scary ledges, but it was worth it.

was a vendor show that had just about any

It’s a beautiful park.

business that sells anything related to 4x4s.

We stayed at a great hotel called the Gonzo

There were 250 to 300 vendors there and they

Inn. It had a great breakfast room that doubled

donated over $250,000 worth of products that

as our happy hour meeting place before going

were raffled off on Friday night. The raffle

out to dinner as a group. There were fantastic

also included a brand new Red Rock Jeep,

restaurants to choose from, but one of our

donated by Jeep, which was totally decked out.

organizers, Coleen, made some great choices

I handed out many flyers to the vendors telling

for our reservations. One of the restaurants,

them about our Sierra 4x4 Trails & Ales event

The Cowboy Grill at Redcliff’s Lodge, was east

coming up this summer, the weekend of July

of town right on the Colorado River with great

16. I’m hoping we can convince some of them

views of the river and the towering red cliffs

to provide donations for our show.

surrounding the canyon. We had some great

The event ended on Saturday with a mass

food and enjoyed the company of our fellow

Jeep parade through downtown Moab. It was

club members.

amazing to see so many Jeeps all in one place.

We chose to sign up for trails with difficulty

As you may be able to discern, we had a great

ratings of four out of 10. Thank goodness we

time and we’ll plan to attend this event again

didn’t sign up for anything greater than a

in the future.

four. These trails were steep, had many shelf

If you’ve been looking for some fun and

roads, with obstacles that I never thought I

adventure in your life, join the club and go

could do, but they were a blast! The four trails

four-wheeling with other folks who love driv-

we did were called Day Canyon Point, Dome

ing the backroads. This is a wonderful group

Plateau, Finns and Things and 7 Mile Canyon.

of very nice people who will welcome you and

Each of the trails had many, what they called

help you stretch your off-road skills. If you are

“obstacles.” These obstacles had names like

interested in joining our club, send an email to

Axle Hill, Again and Again, the Diving Board,

td4wheelers@gmail.com. To read more about

Ken’s Climb and Frenchie’s Hill. You may be

the club and see more pictures, please visit our

picturing what these obstacles look like from

website at td4wheelers.com or look us up on

the names, but now imagine them twice as

Facebook.

bad! But we had great trail leaders from the local Red Rock 4x4 club that helped guide us over the tuff stuff and kept us safe.

Tahoe Donner Senior Alpine Ski Club What a difference a year makes! The ski club had a wonderful ski season due to outstanding

The club championship this past March.

snow conditions. Our twice weekly visits to either Squaw, Alpine, Northstar, Sugar Bowl and Homewood were very well attended. Early February saw over 20 club members enjoy a prerace clinic one day and then a fun GS-style carving race the following day on the slopes of Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area. For the first time, the club was able to host one of our potluck nights at the new Adventure Creek Adventure Center too. Everyone raved about the ambience and extra space it provided. The fun skits thought up by the social committee were a big hit. In early March, 20 or so members enjoyed the annual overnight ski trip to Heavenly and to Kirkwood. Conditions were excellent and everyone stayed at the Hard Rock hotel and enjoyed cocktails and dinner together. At the end of March, we held our annual club championship GS race at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area. Members of all ski levels participated on a picture-perfect day. That evening, we held our end of season dinner dance. The club took over The Lodge Restaurant & Pub for the occasion. Close to 80 members enjoyed a great dinner and plenty of dancing afterwards. Awards were presented to our club champions and to those who have volunteered their time organizing and running various club ski activities this season. In May, we are catching our breath and then starting to plan our summer activities which begin in June. The board welcomes any and all ideas from members for any fun activity. Please visit our website at www.tdski.com for

Utah The 4 Wheelers had a great time exploring trails in Moab, while attending the 50th annual Easter Jeep Safari.

| Tahoe Donner News | March 2016

further details and upcoming club events and activities.

DINING OPTIONS No Corkage Tuesdays*

12850 Northwoods Blvd. 530-587-9455 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge

to savor in the dining room and we’ll waive the

Bring in a special bottle of wine from home corkage fee on Tuesdays.

Dinner Hours: 5 – 9 p.m. daily

Happy Hour*

Daytime Operations: The Lodge Pub and

specials and 25 percent off shared plates, soups

T-9 Grill will be open daily for summer starting on opening day of the golf course.

T-9 Grill: Open daily for lunch in conjunction with the golf course.

Lunch at The Lodge Pub: Starting at 11:30 a.m. daily in conjunction with golf opening for the season, lunch will be available daily in the Pub, as prepared by the T-9 Grill.

Golfers’ Happy Hour – Starts this May Our unforgettable Golfers’ Happy Hour returns for the golf season. Golfers will enjoy Happy Hour from 1 – 4 p.m. every day in the Pub. Not valid Memorial Day weekend, May 27-29.

WildER Wednesdays* Get wild and enjoy Happy Hour specials all night long in the entire restaurant and Pub. Enjoy food and drink specials, plus 25 percent off shared plates, soups and salads.

PIZZA ON THE HILL 11509 Northwoods Blvd 530-582-9669 tahoedonner.com/pizza-on-the-hill

Dinner Hours: Thurs. – Mon., 5 – 8:30 p.m.

Ask about our specialty pizzas and monthly specialty salads!

Build Your Own Pizza Day – May 21 It’s time for some cooking fun and creativity! Kids will be able to make their own individual-sized pizza for $8. Roll out the dough, add sauce and cheese, then the toppings—and we’ll bake it for you! TIME: 3 - 5 P.M.

Free Firestone Beer Tasting – May 21 Enjoy our complimentary beer tasting and take advantage of three different beers that will be on special for just $4 each. TIME: 5 - 7 P.M.

Offered daily for all of May! Enjoy drink and salads in the Pub, valid every day from 5 6:30 p.m. in the Pub, excluding Memorial Day weekend, May 27-29.

Three-Course Meal Deal* The Three-Course Meal Deal is back! For the entire month of May, diners can take advantage of one of our most requested deals. For $32, you’ll enjoy a three-course, Chef’s Choice menu that even includes a glass of house wine! This deal is only valid Sunday – Thursday, May 1 – 31 and excludes May 5 and May 29 for holidays.

Cinco de Mayo Party – May 5* We are celebrating with the following deals: • Mexican food specials by Sous Chef Freddy Zarate • $5 margaritas • $3 Coronas • Happy Hour all night in entire restaurant

Mother’s Day Weekend Celebrations SATURDAY, MAY 7 AND SUNDAY, MAY 8*

All mothers and their families will enjoy: • “Extra-special” specials by Chef Lew • Bounce house and crafts for the kids from 4 -7 p.m. each day • The Pub will open at 4 p.m. for drinks and dinner begins at 5 p.m. • Happy Hour deals from 4 - 6:30 p.m.

40th Anniversary of the Famous “Judgement of Paris” Wine Tasting SUNDAY, MAY 15- THURSDAY, MAY 19

French wines were always enjoyed by presidents in the White House until one day President Lyndon B. Johnson decided only American wines should be served. Many felt this was a nice gesture, but a bad culinary decision since most agreed French wines were superior. However, all of that changed in 1976 when the Paris Wine Tasting “Judgement of Paris” took place to compare American wines against French wines. The judges consisted of nine French wine experts and the tastings were blind. Surprising most, American wines won in almost every category, changing the wine world as it’s viewed today. As we look back fondly on our wine history, patrons may enjoy 20 percent off our entire wine list (by the bottle only) in our restaurant or pub.

Try our New Super Sampler Can’t decide which appetizer to try? No problem! Try our new Super Sampler for $12.95. It includes wings (BBQ, Asian or buffalo), jalapeno poppers, onion rings and mozzarella sticks. Pick from three sauce selections too: ranch, marinara, BBQ, Asian, spicy jalapeño ranch, or blue cheese. Available for a

CLOSURE NOTICE Pizza on the Hill will be closed for maintenance through May 11, reopening on May 12.

limited time.

$10 Pizza Sundays* It’s pizza for just $10! Grab this deal every Sunday at Pizza on the Hill. Valid for cheese or pepperoni pizza only. Take advantage of this deal for up to six pizzas! Take it to-go or dine-in.

Friday Family Movie Night Enjoy a movie on our big screen for FREE. See page 13 for details.

Happy Hour* Thirsty? Quench your thirst with $3 Coors

Thursday Night Trivia

Light, $4 seasonal draft beers and $4 house

It’s time to test your smarts! Trivia lovers— this is your chance to win big! Don’t miss our Trivia Night at Pizza on the Hill. See page 13

cabernet or chardonnay by the glass; plus,

for details.

from 5 - 6 p.m., Thursday - Monday.

enjoy half-price wings. Back this month are also our popular $4 chili cheese fries. Offered

tahoedonner.com |

*Promotions cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon and are not valid during holiday periods.

THE LODGE RESTAURANT & PUB

Protecting and preserving open space is in keeping with

Tahoe Donner’s guiding principles.

TAHOE DONNER TO PURCHASE 640-ACRE CRABTREE CANYON With approval from its board of

desirable mountain community

purchase for less than $800 per

guiding principles, which include

directors, Tahoe Donner Associa-

includes providing attractive

acre. The Land Trust originally

environmental stewardship.

tion is working with the Truckee

and well-maintained facilities

purchased this parcel for $2.4

Donner Land Trust and their

and amenities while maintaining

million; our purchase price was

move forward in keeping with

partners, The Nature Conser-

accessible and healthy natural

$500,000, which equates to under

our guiding principles, which

vancy and The Northern Sierra

surroundings. The acquisition of

$80 per Tahoe Donner member.

includes environmental steward-

Partnership, to move forward

the Crabtree parcel will also pro-

Also, the funding for this pur-

ship,” said Robb Etnyre, Tahoe

with the acquisition of a 640-acre

tect Tahoe Donner’s borders from

chase will require no special

Donner’s general manager. “The

parcel of land located in Carpen-

future development.

assessment to existing Tahoe

majority of our members surveyed

In addition to preserving, pro-

Donner homeowners. It is covered

Donner’s existing 7,000-plus acres

tecting and maintaining Crabtree

by the development fund por-

and Euer Valley.

Canyon, this land parcel will also

tion of the association’s existing

The southern-most portion

create new recreational opportu-

budget, which is comprised of a

of the property, which includes

nities for Tahoe Donner residents.

percentage of each homeowner’s

Crabtree Canyon, is a gateway

“This purchase also expands

annual assessment.

between Euer Valley and Carpen-

services to our membership,”

ter Valley and will be owned and

Miller said. “It will allow Tahoe

winter activities will be encour-

managed by Tahoe Donner. This

Donner Cross Country Ski Area

aged on the new parcel of land

is phase one of a much larger open

to reopen 16 percent of our Nordic

and officials from the Truckee

space effort by Truckee Donner

ski terrain that had previously

Donner Land Trust envision

Land Trust, The Nature Conser-

closed due to land use concerns,”

a loop trail around the valley,

vancy, and The Northern Sierra

Miller explained. Tahoe Donner

with plans to link Tahoe Donner

Partnership. Further protection

will also be exploring future

Independence Lake Preserve via

will be ensured by a permanent

opportunities over this property

a new trail system. Additionally,

conservation easement held by

for hiking, biking, and equestrian

with our own forestry department

the Truckee Donner Land Trust.

usage in accordance with its com-

actively working to minimize

The larger surrounding Carpen-

prehensive trails master plan and

the threat of wildfire, and with

ter Valley property, which has

land use master plan.

remained in private hands since

Non-motorized summer and

motorized recreational vehi-

Working with the Truckee

cles prohibited throughout the

the mid-19th century, is expected

Donner Land Trust, Tahoe Don-

year, this purchase successfully

to be part of a Truckee Donner

ner’s General Plan Committee,

protects additional resources and

Land Trust purchase in 2017.

management and staff were able

valuable open space, allowing us

to negotiate the Crabtree Canyon

to further achieve our vision and

Our association’s vision as a

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

PROTECTED RECREATION OPEN SPACE

ter Valley and adjacent to Tahoe

“This land acquisition helps us

40 ACRES EUER FAMILY

INTERSTATE 80

OLD HIGHWAY 40

20 A Fore Purc in 2

protecting and investing in open space and trails as a top priority for the association.” “Carpenter Valley is one of the most spectacular — and little known — valleys in the entire Northern Sierra.

Sip. Sa vor. Smile.

42ND S OR OPTIMIST WINE + R E STAUR AN T FAIR E FU N D-R A I S E R

Preserving the pris-

SATURDAY JUNE 4TH | 5:00 TO 7:30 P.M.

tine natural beauty of

COYOTE MOON GOLF COURSE | 10685 NORTHWOODS BLVD. | TRUCKEE

our surroundings and ensuring continued recreational access is of

Wine + Beer Tasting | Souvenir Wine Glass | Music by Green Weather Culinary Delights Prepared by Area Restaurants + Caterers

utmost importance to us,” said Perry Norris, executive director of the Truckee Donner Land Trust. “This is a critical open space that is of

SILENT AUCTION WITH ITEMS WORTH THOUSANDS

great value to our community, and we are pleased to work with Tahoe Donner Association to help us protect it.” Norris added that this land deal will help the Truckee Donner Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy, and The Northern Sierra Partnership with a future land acquisition of the larger Carpenter Valley area in 2017. Once acquired, that property will be open to the public for the first time in over a century. An announcement will be made

$50 ADVANCE | $55 AT DOOR | PURCHASE TICKETS AT: DICKSON REALTY | TRUCKEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | TRUCKEE PHYSICAL THERAPY AT THE DOOR OR ONLINE AT SITRUCKEEDONNER.ORG

Information: Contact Lil Schaller at 530.550.5007 or visit SITruckeeDonner.org In compliance with governmental regulations, ID’s with date of birth will be requested at the door.

once this larger purchase is officially completed. About the Truckee Donner Land Trust: The Truckee Donner Land Trust preserves and protects scenic, historic and recreational lands with high natural resource values in the greater Truckee Donner region and manage recreational activities on these lands in a sustainable manner. Learn more at: www.tdlandtrust.org.

AL DER CR EEK R D

TO H WY 8 9

ALD

482 Acre Euer Valley Purchased in 2011

ER C

REEK

640 Acres Crabtree Purchased in 2016

FJORD RD

SNOW PEAK WAY

NORTHWOODS BLVD. (LOOP)

401 Acres Bucknam Tract Purchased in 2010 and McGlashan Springs in 2011

NORTH

Acre estry chased 2011

last summer identified

TO TRUCKEE DONNER PASS ROAD

DONNER LAKE

tahoedonner.com |

JO KHO

On Top of the World:

Climbing Mount Everest

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

Thirteen years ago this month, on the 26th, Tahoe Donner resident Mimi

FEATURE

Maki-Vadasz became the oldest American woman to summit Mount Everest. Straddling the border of Nepal and Tibet at 29,035 feet above sea level, Mimi stood atop the tallest and one of the most revered mountains in the world. Tibetans and the Sherpa people who live in the mountain’s shadow call her Chomolungma, or “Goddess Mother of the Earth,” and it was in that spirit of sanctity that Mimi approached the mountain. She was 48 years old at the

of the world.’ He said he’d be

The dream solidified into reality

time. As a mother of two boys

there with me. I knew at that

many years later when she

she was not out to conquer a

point that I would be up there

received a call from fellow climb-

mountain; she wanted to fulfill a

someday, to sit back on his lap one

ers and friends, Tom Burch and

promise that she and her father

more time.”

Bob Hoffman, who were forming

had made to one another 34 years earlier on his deathbed. “My

Mimi is no stranger to the

the 2003 American Commemo-

mountains. In 1979 she and

rative Team. When they asked

father was dying of cancer, and

her late husband, Bela Vadasz,

if she wanted to go, she couldn’t

I was on his lap. He asked

founded Alpine Skills Interna-

pass up the opportunity. Their

me what I wanted in

tional (ASI), a mountaineering

group included nine climbers, six

my life. I said, ‘I

school and guide service dedi-

of whom had already attempted

cated to teaching people the skills

Mount Everest unsuccessfully,

to move safely – and gracefully

and nine Sherpas, including Apa

– through the most beautiful

Sherpa, the current world record

mountains in the world, whether

holder for most number of sum-

on foot or on skis.

mits (he is tied with Phurba Tashi

would love to go to the top

Everest had long been a dream for Mimi.

Sherpa with 21 total ascents). 2003 also marked the 50th anniversary of the first time Everest was ever knowingly summited, an accomplishment that went down

tahoedonner.com |

Above left: Mimi Maki-Vadasz climbs to Camp II. Center: Mimi and her entire climbing crew (including Sherpas and kitchen staff) gathered together for a group picture. Mimi is in the front row in the red jacket, sitting next to Apa Sherpa in orange, who is the current world record holder for most Everest accents. Right: Sherpas are a group of people who live in the mountainous region of Nepal, high in the Himalayas. All photos courtesy of Mimi Maki-Vadasz.

in history on May 29, 1953 by Ten-

a Frenchman had just died in his

“I was walking around Camp II

zing Norgay and Edmund Hillary.

sleep from taking sleeping pills,”

to get out and move, and came

The only woman on the team,

said Mimi. “I had sleeping pills.

across someone’s arm — totally

Mimi knew this was her time.

Needless to say, I didn’t use them

preserved,” she said. “It was a

As her trip neared, she prepared

for fear of dying.”

grave reminder that anything

in Tahoe Donner. Instead of her

can happen and to be prepared

immediately into her trip, more

for death.” While at Camp II,

skiing for an hour and a half, she

setbacks arose as the weather

two others in her group decided

pushed herself to ski continuously

began to worsen. “I had seen

to turn back due to the extreme

for three to four hours at a time.

pictures of people sitting around

weather conditions. One of those

She also increased her biking

Base Camp in shorts and sun

two, a surgeon, already had frost-

time to six hours and upped her

hats,” she said. “We had snow, and

bite on his fingers.

evening workouts at Trout Creek

sat around in full gear and down

Recreation Center by climbing

jackets.” In addition to inclement

move onward wasn’t an easy task

on a stairmaster while carrying a

weather, a traditional ritual — or

physically or mentally, and it

60-pound pack.

lack thereof — prevented them

became more difficult the closer

from ascending to Camp I on

she got to the summit. At times,

States on March 15, 2003 to meet

schedule. “We couldn’t go up

Mimi questioned if she would

her group in Nepal, she told her

through the ice fall until we had a

make it all the way and reminded

Puja,” said Mimi, explaining that

herself that summiting wasn’t

the ceremony that blesses the ice

worth her life. “My mind, heart

axes, crampons and special items

and soul kept me going,” she said.

needed for the summit was a

“I loved just being up there, so

requirement.

I just said, the summit is not as

When she left the United

“I didn’t climb it by myself. It was everyone in my life that helped me survive my whole life.”

At this point, continuing to

It would be nine days before

important. I will just keep going

their Puja took place and while

until I can’t go anymore.” Mimi

bad weather continued to delay

says the worst day of the trip was

their progress, she and most of

Mother’s Day. “I was so sad and

her group successfully made it to

disappointed, and I questioned

Camp I and then Camp II. Along

myself, ‘What I am doing? I

the way, a few team members

should be home raising my kids!’

family she was coming back. “I

retreated. One left at Everest Base

I desperately missed them,” she

promised my kids, I wouldn’t risk

Camp due to cold and sickness

added.

my life or fingers and toes!” she

and two Sherpas later left due to

said.

other medical issues.

Before arriving in Nepal, she

After encountering death

normal regime of cross country

At Camp II, Mimi faced another

Her group’s roundtrip summit plan was supposed to be four days total, but due to weather, their

had anticipated summiting Ever-

reminder of the extreme danger

trip turned into 12 days, with

est on May 10 or 11, but soon the

and harsh conditions she was

three nights at Camp IV. Here,

team began to run into obstacles.

facing and would continue to

the air is so thin that even with

“The day I arrived in Base Camp,

confront throughout her journey.

supplemental oxygen every min-

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

ute that one spends above 26,000

of what one mistake can cost

ready to get down and go home.”

feet – in what’s known as the

at this elevation. “Up on the

After just 5-10 minutes at the

Death Zone – the body is essen-

mountain I passed two bodies,”

top of the world, Mimi descended

tially dying. The human brain

Mimi said. She wasn’t certain,

the mountain, but extreme peril

becomes confused and even small

but she suspects one of them was

was a constant companion. One

movements require Herculean

Scott Fischer from the tragic 1996

member of their group ran out of

efforts. Because of the extended

expedition. “I just added a rock to

oxygen on the way down, neces-

time, food was limited and oxygen

it and kept moving with a heavy

sitating a rescue. Mimi and her

tanks had to be conserved. “We

heart.”

team were able to successfully get

ran low of western food, so I just

As they neared the top, Apa

him back down to Camp IV, but

ate what the Sherpas ate, potatoes

Sherpa went first. As an experi-

he was in bad shape. Instead of

and dahl baht, which is a tradi-

enced guide and veteran of Mount

descending, the group was forced

tional Nepalese meal. I loved it,”

Everest, he went ahead to try and

recalled Mimi. “Oxygen and food

fix what ropes he could to make it

was rationed and not used except

easier on the team. Of her actual

for the summit attempt.”

team members, Mimi was the first

When summit day finally

to make it to the top, followed by

came, another member, too ill to

long-term friends Tom Burch and

continue on, dropped out. The

Brian O’Conner.

“I sat on top of the world, with my crampons digging in to stay in place.”

rest of her group geared up at 8:30

“I love views and this was

p.m. the night before and climbed

the ultimate! 360 degrees and

through the entire night up to the

so amazing, clear, cold and very

South Summit by the light of their

windy. I sat on top of the world,

headlamps. The wind howled so

with my crampons digging in

fiercely, Mimi remembers that it

to stay in place,” she recalled.

to spend yet another night in the

was difficult to keep the oxygen

“Everything below looked so

Death Zone.

mask on. “So many thoughts went

small. I felt so alive because I was

through my mind, mostly all the

so close to death. I wanted to hug

that you are disintegrating at

people that made this possible for

the whole world,” she continued.

every minute. He was my tent

me,” she explained. “Everything

“It was an amazing feeling… then

mate, so I took care of him,”

was in slow motion, like walking

suddenly, reality hit and I was

explained Mimi. “He couldn’t use

at the bottom of the deep end of a

“You know at that elevation

Left: Ladders are required to cross the Khumbu Icefall. Right: Mimi took only a few moments to pause at the top of the world before descending. Photos courtesy of Mimi Maki-Vadasz.

swimming pool. I didn’t climb it by myself, it was everyone in my life that helped me survive my whole life.” More than 250 people have died climbing Everest, and the climate has preserved some of the deceased as a somber reminder

tahoedonner.com |

Logan, Bela and Tobin Vadasz, Haute Route, Switzerland.

his hands, so I fed him and kept

“He looked at my shoes and said,

him on low oxygen through the

‘Are you a climber?’ I said ‘yes’

night. He fought every minute of

and the rest was history,” Mimi

it, but after looking at his feet, I

said, adding that the two of them

knew they were gone, so I focused

did as much climbing and travel-

on saving his fingers.”

ing as possible. “That is why we

Eventually, their teammate

started ASI, so we could support

successfully made it back down

our habit!” They led guided trips

to Everest Base Camp where he

to destinations they wanted to

was airlifted to Kathmandu. He

visit, including Canada, Alaska,

ended up losing eight of his toes,

Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Mexico,

but his fingers were saved. He

Italy, France, Switzerland, Africa,

was lucky to be alive, but another

Russia and even Nepal. Locally,

climber wasn’t as fortunate. One

ASI specializes in rock climbing,

climber from India didn’t clip in

backcountry skiing and avalanche

while scaling the ladders over an

courses. Bela Vadasz was also

expanding crevasse, and fell to his

awarded the American Mountain

death. He was approximately 100

Guides Association’s Lifetime

yards behind Mimi when he died.

Achievement Award in 2008 as

With the exception of Mount

well as the President’s Award in

Vinson in Antarctica, Mimi has

2015, but sadly, he died last Sep-

climbed six of the seven highest

tember before he could receive the

summits in the world—the highest

latter. (For more information on

peak on every continent. She is

his legacy, visit Tahoe Quarterly

proud that she and her husband

Magazine at tahoequarterly.com).

completed the first American

Logan were just 8 and 12 years

Ridge of Mont Blanc. “Bela and I

old, she returned to Nepal a few

did this and we were at our limit,”

months after her trek to the sum-

recalled Mimi. “The level of tech-

mit, and hiked with her kids to

nical climbing on rock and snow,

Everest Base Camp so they could

and the speed needed to complete

experience part of her journey.

it was absolutely thrilling, scary,

Now 24 and 21, they have inher-

exciting, beautiful, and reward-

ited their mother’s adventurous

ing.” While many consider Ever-

spirit, and have traveled all over

est possibly the most challenging

the world for extreme sports.

mountain to climb, Mimi doesn’t

The group still takes family trips

agree after taking on Peuterey

two to three times a year, with an

Integral Ridge. “Everest was easy

itinerary that typically includes

compared to this, because we

climbing, surfing or skiing. The adventures aren’t ending

she explained. On her Everest

any time soon. Mimi is returning

expedition, she said, there was a

to Nepal again this fall, where she

lot of waiting for the weather and

will be leading a three-week trek

for their bodies to acclimatize.

though the Himalaya, beginning

“Patience was needed on Everest,

in Kathmandu with a tour of the

where here we got to move and

city’s ancient sites and culminat-

flow up and down the mountain.”

ing in an optional ascent of Island

Together, Mimi and her husband climbed many mountains; their shared love of climbing is

Peak (20,305 feet) and a visit to Everest Base Camp. To learn more about Mimi, ASI,

what sparked their relationship

or to consider joining her on her

in the first place. The pair met in

upcoming trip, visit ASI at

college and connected instantly.

alpineskills.com.

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

Mt. Everest 29,035' Lhotse 27,940' Camp IV 26,085' Lhotse Face

Everest North Face

Camp III 23,500'

Camp II 21,500' rn te es m W Cw

Camp I 19,500'

When Mimi’s sons Tobin and

ascent of the Peuterey Integral

weren’t climbing every minute,”

A depiction of the route Mimi took to climb Mount Everest.

ll fa Ice

Everest Base Camp 17,500'

Mimi at Base Camp, with the soaring summit of Mount Everest behind her.

Nuptse 25,771'

SNOWMAN CONTEST WINNNER

Thank you to our 2016 snowman contest participants. With El Niño delivering the goods, there was plenty of fresh snow to work with this year! After a fun egg hunt and a delicious brunch at the Easter Eggstravaganza, big brother, Xavier “X-Man” Schlough said he wanted to build a snowman. Drawing inspiration from the afternoon events and a little help from mommy, he created a Snow Bunny. Little brother, Quinlan “Qwie,” happily gave the creation his smile of approval. The Schloughs received a gift certificate to dine at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub.

OPT IN FOR PAPERLESS COMMUNICATION TODAY! It’s 2016 and Tahoe Donner Association (TDA) is going green by cutting back on paper and mailing expenses. Receive TDA statements and other documents faster via electronic mail (email) and together, we’ll save trees in the process. Opting in for paperless communication is easy and takes only a few minutes. Just visit tahoedonner.com/opt-in and enroll today in paperless communication.

Visit tahoedonner.com/opt-in now to enroll

tahoedonner.com |

TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND

TDGF SUPPORTS TRUCKEE COMMUNITY THEATER Members of the board of directors of Truckee Community Theater

ormed “The Miracle Worker” as perf The famous water scene from and s Wee eron Cam with ter, by the Truckee Community Thea Kaitlyn Barrett.

over 100 performers ranging in age from 4 to 72.”

were recently thrilled to learn that the Tahoe Truckee Community Foun-

Simson, a retired English teacher from San Diego, began offering the-

dation and the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund (TDGF) have joined forces to

ater classes in partnership with the Truckee Donner Recreation and Park

award the group a grant to purchase new equipment for rehearsals and

District in 2012. The production of full shows launched in June of 2013

performances. “We are the only community theater group in the Truckee

with “Annie.” Only two performances were planned, but these quickly

area, and are proud to cast local residents of all ages in our shows,”

sold out, and two more were added. Excited by the overwhelmingly

explained Courtney Simson, Producing artistic director for Truckee

positive response from the community, Simson went on the next year to

Community Theater. “In our last spring musical, ‘The King and I,’ we had

produce a stirring production of “The Miracle Worker,” and the rousing American musical theater classic “Oklahoma!” in the spring. “The audiences were very enthusiastic. The actors in these shows

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were thrilled by sold out crowds and standing ovations,” Simson said. “At this point, we realized we were ready to evolve to the next big step of

when you book your exterior repainting contract by june 15th, 2016.

becoming a non-profit theater group and presenting a regular, balanced season of plays. I selected a top notch board of directors, including Tahoe

CA LIC #960719

Donner’s own Mike English, who brought a wide background in graphic design to our group.” Simson then rolled out an ambitious season of five shows. These included a Broadway concert under the stars at the Truckee Regional Park in August that drew over 500 audience members, a dramatic adult play, “The Crucible,” and their first youth theater production, “Into the Woods, Jr.” The youth theater production was a huge hit with families, and included a chance for kids in the audience to meet the young stars, get autographs and talk with them about the show,” Simson explained. Like any new theater group, Truckee Community Theater is on a constant mission to attain a level of excellence in their performances that

proudly serving tahoe donner and truckee for over 25 years

will delight the audience and enrich the lives of the performers. This combined grant from TTCF and the TDGF will allow the group to purchase three new microphones, a powerful amp for dance rehearsal music, new mirrors for the dressing rooms, three large shelf units for props, and a new iPad to be used to run lights for all productions. “The TDGF committee felt strongly that we should support the arts in our community and this was an opportunity to impact hundreds of residents, including many from Tahoe Donner,” said Dick Gander, co-chair of the TDGF operations and grant committee. “We are so very grateful for the new equipment this grant provides,”

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

SAVE THE DATE: “BACK TO THE LAND” BENEFIT DINNER JUNE 18 The TDGF invites you to their “Back to the Land” Dinner, Saturday, June 18, at the Alder Creek Adventure Center. You’ll enjoy a simple, elegant family-style dinner with a special menu Truckee Community Theater’s actors performed “Bye Bye BIrdie” to a packe d house with an enthusiastic audience and standing ovatio ns.

sourced from local farmers through the Tahoe Food Hub, a 2015 grant recipient of the TDGF. Tickets will be available online. Stay tuned

Simson said. “These funds will impact our

TDGF or to make a contribution visit our web

organization in a positive way for years to

page at tahoedonner.com/giving-fund/. Con-

come! We hope to see lots of Tahoe Donner

tact tdgf@tahoedonner.com with questions or

homeowners at ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ this spring,”

to volunteer for the committee.

for more information in future Tahoe Donner newsletters or visit tahoedonner.com/ giving-fund/events/ for updates. Proceeds will benefit the Tahoe Food Hub and the TDGF.

she said, adding that performances will be May 27-29 and June 3-5. Tickets will be available online at truckeecommunitytheater.com. The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is chartered by the TD Board of Directors. All contributions are voluntary tax deductible gifts from TD members and friends. The TDGF is administered through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation. For more information on the

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BULLETIN BOARD

2016 ELECTION:

PLACE YOUR VOTE!

You will receive election materials for this year’s board of directors election approximately the fourth week in May. Two director positions are open for election. The election materials include voting instructions and each candidate’s statement. These statements are the sole work of their authors (the association has not edited them in any way); their purpose is to give owners some insight into the perspectives of the individual candidates. For more information, plan to attend Candidates’ Night on Saturday, June 4, from 7 - 9 p.m. at the Northwoods Clubhouse. This is an opportunity to hear candidates present their positions and views for the future of Tahoe Donner and for members to ask the candidates questions. (Note: as provided by the amended restated bylaws, if one, but no more than one, eligible candidate submits a timely application

for this election, the board of directors will declare that candidate elected and the director election concluded.) Please read the election materials carefully. Over the years, California law has made association elections more technical, and as specified in our director election materials, specific detailed procedures must be followed to be in compliance with these laws and for your vote to be counted. To cast your ballot, you must seal the ballot in one envelope, which is then sealed in another envelope. The outer envelope must bear specific information about you, the voter (name and property designation) and your signature. PLEASE REMEMBER TO SIGN THE OUTER ENVELOPE WHERE INDICATED. Likewise, please do not make extraneous marks on the ballot itself. If these steps are not fol-

Don’t forget to sign the outer envelope!

lowed exactly, according to California law, the ballot is disqualified. Please participate in these elections and cast your vote for the candidate you feel will best represent you on the board. If you have questions, contact the elections committee (electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com) or Megan Rodman at 530-587-9431.

TRAIL AND ROAD CONSTRUCTION BEGINS SOON TOWN OF TRUCKEE PLANNED PROJECTS: YOUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK The Town of Truckee has several projects scheduled on the streets in Tahoe Donner, as well as downtown Truckee which may impact travel through detours and travel time.

Tahoe Donner Trail (Class 1) Project Work will resume on the trail in late May/ early June. Much of Phase 2 of the project was completed prior to snowfall this last fall and this summer the trail will be completed with the bridge over Trout Creek and other trail amenities such as trash receptacles and pet waste stations. Be on the lookout for the Town to announce a ribbon cutting ceremony at some point in the summer.

Paving and Drainage Project A pavement overlay is scheduled for the Northwoods Boulevard loop, Fjord Road and Alder Creek Road from Fjord Road to Hwy 89. Drainage improvements are also proposed at various locations on these streets as a part of the project prior to the pavement overlay. The work will most likely occur in late summer/early fall.

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

Slurry Seal Project The Tahoe Donner streets that are scheduled to receive a slurry seal in late summer/ early fall are listed online at tahoedonner.com. A more detailed schedule and notifications of the work will be provided by the Town during the project. The Town of Truckee also has a few larger construction projects that will not directly impact Tahoe Donner but will impact traffic in the downtown and SR 89 area:

Brickelltown Streetscape Project Project will construct streetscape improvements from the McIver Roundabout to the limits of the recently completed Phase 1, including new sidewalks, landscaping, lighting, crosswalks, repaving Donner Pass Road, undergrounding of utilities, and parking improvements on the north and south side of Donner Pass Road. Construction has started and will include both day and night work. More infor-

mation on the construction schedule may be found here: townoftruckee.com/departments/ redevelopment/brickelltown-streetscape-project

West River Street Widening and Bike Lane Project Project will reconstruct and widen West River Street from Riverside Drive to Placer County. Construction will likely start in June and will take two to three months to complete. Most work will be done at night.

State Route 89 Mousehole Pedestrian/ Bicycle Tunnel Project Work on this project to complete the paths leading to the tunnel, the transit shelter, and other miscellaneous items will start in May and will likely be complete in July. Work will mostly occur in the shoulder and traffic delays should be minimal. For more information on Town of Truckee projects visit: townoftruckee.com/departments/engineering/town-capital-improvement-projects-cips-.

BULLETIN BOARD

PROPERTY OWNERSHIP:

RESPECTING PRIVATE PROPERTY Tahoe Donner Association now owns 5,018 acres with the purchase of Crabtree Canyon 640 acres. The private lots and residents of Tahoe Donner make up at total of 2,660 acres. When combined, the entire acre size of Tahoe Donner is 7,678 acres. Much of the acreage is open area and both the board, committees and management are committed to protecting and enhancing the area for long-term stewardship. Management of the association’s real property is guided by existing documents such as the Trails Master Plan and Forest Health Management Plan. As detailed in prior articles, the association is working with a consultant to develop a land management plan, which is scheduled for completion late May or early June in order to capture the Crabtree Canyon property in the plan. The Covenants and Restrictions, Architectural Standards Procedures and Rules for Land Use, and Covenants Rules help guide and manage the members’ private lots and residences within the community. These documents detail what an owner may or may not do on their own property and on Tahoe Donner Association-

owned property. The continued development, improvement of existing homes, and use of the association by members and guests brings to light the need to remind all about respecting private property. This applies to your neighbor who owns a vacant lot next door to their home, their own home site, and Tahoe Donner owned property. Recent real concerns from your fellow residents were voiced about unlawful trespass on their properties by members and guests. They cite their main concern as safety of the individuals entering their properties as well as privacy. Please respect your neighbor’s property, by considering whether access through the area is appropriate and/or allowed, play is on your property and not others, and that any possible improvement (landscaping, driveway, storage shed, etc.) is reviewed and approved through the Architectural Standards Office. This ensures that you are not building on another person or entity’s property. As with any new land purchase, Tahoe Donner makes an effort to install signage to inform members and guests about property boundaries

and neighbors. The association’s neighbors include each member’s private lot/residence as well as larger entities like the United States Forest Service-Tahoe National Forest, Sierra Pacific Industries, Euer family, Donner Euer Valley Corporation (commonly referred to 7Cs), and now the Truckee Donner Land Trust. Several of the large private land owners expressly prohibit access to or through their property. Tahoe Donner posts these boundaries and asks you to respect their property and wishes. Specific to Tahoe Donner owned property, no improvement is allowed on any greenbelt, or other open space, unless performed by Tahoe Donner Association staff or contracting unit. Improvements such as trails, landscaping, fire rings, tree houses, cannot be installed on association property by residents. Know your property line and stay within required setbacks so all members can enjoy the natural scape of the greenbelts and other areas. We all endeavor to be good neighbors. Be courteous and respectful of each area so that we all may continue to enjoy the Tahoe Donner community and beyond.

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BULLETIN BOARD

CONSTRUCTION HOURS AND WORK SITE REQUIREMENTS: As the building season is ramping up as the snow melts, the Architectural Standards Office would like to take this opportunity to remind our members and contractors of some of the requirements for building in Tahoe Donner.

Construction Hours and Work Site Requirements: • Construction start and stop times: Please don’t start too early or work too late. Construction hours are limited to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. The upcoming holidays, recognized by this provision, are Memorial Day, the 4th

Serving Truckee/Lake Tahoe Residential • Commercial

of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. • Do not park on other people’s property or block the street. • Deliveries should be made only to the property under construction. • Be considerate of neighbors and reduce loud noises as much as possible. • Please play your music at a reasonable level, not loud enough to be heard over the noise of tools.

Interior and Exterior Specializing in Staining Wood Restoration Superior Finish Painting Remodels and New Construction

Temporary Snow Shelter Removal: Now that the weather is warming and any lingering snow has melted, please remove any remaining snow protection devices such as plywood covering windows and entrance ways, etc. Before storing them, please take the time to put a coat of paint or stain on them to keep them looking consistent with the rest of your house.

Exterior Changes:

• Keep construction sites tidy. • Store materials and scrap neatly on your property. • Make sure the required sanitary facilities are located on the lot prior to construction and that your employees use them. • Please remember: During winter months, clearing of snow from a building site with heavy equipment will not be allowed except under special circumstances with the discretion of the ASC. The parcel must be reasonably clear of snow (less than two feet) to avoid any damage to native vegetation, and any such damage, other than where approved, may result in a fine. Caution is urged at all times.

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP CLEANLINESS & CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

loud radios, etc. should be referred to the Architectural Standards Office compliance inspector at 530-587-9406.

If you have concerns about a construction site, please address it directly to the contractor or the owner. Most are more than happy to take care of any concerns quickly and simply. If your concern is not resolved with this approach, concerns such as garbage, litter,

As a reminder, if you are doing any exterior work on your home, please call our office prior to commencement and give us a description of the proposed work. Often, the work is “likefor-like” and a quick call can help us update your file with these notes. If the work changes the exterior of your house and/or garage with material or color changes (including color scheme changes), or new landscaping will be constructed on your lot, please contact our office to see if a permit is required from Tahoe Donner. Please remind your contractor that all new exterior work including landscaping projects requires permits from both Tahoe Donner and possibly also the Town of Truckee. Additionally, if you have any questions please stop by our office, contact us at 530-5879407 or send an email to aso@tahoedonner. com. Thank you,

SHERYL WALKER | ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS OFFICE MANAGER

HOMES ON THE RISE

530.550.7938

PO Box 11107, Truckee, CA 96162 BONDED & INSURED • CA LIC #764916

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016

The Architectural Standards Committee did not review any house plans during March 2016.

BOARD MEETING RECAP MARCH 18, 2016 Consent Calendar: Approved 4-0 • Decision Paper, 45-day notice on private use of drones rule • Tom Johns resignation from GPC • John McGregor term renewal • Appointment as assistant treasurer, Director of Finance and Accounting Michael Salmon • TDXC rental equipment (RR) 2015 Audit Report: Approved 4-0 The board was presented with the positive results of the 2015 Financial Statements Annual Audit by Gilbert Associations, Inc., a ‘clean’ unqualified opinion was issued. The audit again this year had no audit adjustments or management letter recommendations proposed by the auditors. Director of Finance & Accounting Report: Approved 4-0 The board approved the unaudited February 2016 Financials and the audited 2015 operating fund review, presented by Mike Salmon. Beach Club Marina Boat Launch and Waterline Safety: No Action Discussion took place regarding a review of the Tahoe Donner Boat Ramp recommendations concerning boat launch and waterline safety; several preliminary recommendations were made based on previous board guidance. Metal Roof Painting Presentation: No Action CalPro Painting, Inc., presented several viable warrantied solutions for metal roof painting that would address fading and shiny metal roofs out of compliance with Tahoe Donner Association Architectural Standards rules. Executive Session: No Action Board reported they discussed legal and contractual matters. Equestrian Campus, Review of Remaining Phases: Approved 5-0 The Board approved Phase 2 of the Nevada County permitted Equestrian relocation plan, as presented in the Decision Paper, amounting to an estimated $280,000 in 2016. Affordable Care Act (ACA): Approved 4-0 The Board approved increasing the authorized full-time benefited employees from 70 to 85 in 2016, as required by the Affordable Care Act. Board Communication: No Action Discussion took place with the board directing staff to draft a board policy on board communication, addressing both internal and external communication with the membership as allowed by California law and the Davis-Stirling Act. tahoedonner.com |

SCOTLAND

ira outside Nav neet, Meera, and Kamal Kha sgow. the gates of the University of Gla

Y apponi in ITAL dZ i ng . & F re i Ma r y n k sg t Tha a e c i Ven

SOUTH AFRICA New homeowners and newlyweds Eric and Michelle Varney on their honeymoon safari. Although they enjoyed seeing many lions, leopards and elephants, Eric and Michelle are grateful that these animals are not native to the Sierras! Email your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where in the Worldâ&#x20AC;? photos to: comdep@tahoedonner.com. Please submit only .jpeg files of 300 dpi or higher for printing. Photos must include a copy of TD News.

GERMANY Dave and Criss Rojas in the Bavarian Alps, while enjoying a Christmas Danube River Cruise.

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.

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This gorgeous, custom chalet offers exquisite craftsmanship with nearly $160,000 of upgrades since 2010, five spacious bedrooms (two en-suite), 3.5 bathrooms, beautiful view centric loft/game room (or home office). You’ll enjoy the magnificent views of the Carson Range and Martis Valley from nearly every room. Enjoy this luxurious, well-designed 3,765 s.f. retreat, perfect for entertaining friends and family. You’ll love the chef’s kitchen with spacious dining area and large great room offering amazing vista views. This home offers ease of year ‘round living with hydronic heating, energy neutral solar panels, large spa on the private rear deck with more views and adjacent to green belt plus perennial landscaping. The sunny, easy access driveway and fantastic three car garage is perfect for second home or full time living. Simply beautiful! $1,295,000 Multiple Offers!

11770 Snowpeak Way

Multiple Offers!

COE: 3/22/16

An easy walk to Tahoe Donner’s ski hill and centrally located to the Adventure Center and Trout Creek Rec facilities, you’ll enjoy this light and bright, .3031 parcel awaiting your unique design and personal touch for your new chalet! Easy access driveway area and perfect for a cantilever design and build too! Sold for $145,000

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COE: 3/28/16

Awaiting it’s new construction home, this location offers easy year ’round access, great light and adjacent green belt, creating a private forested environment. This spacious .30 acre parcel offers a gentle up slope and spacious building envelope. Enjoy all the amenities the HOA offers! Sold for $151,000

Since 2015, Alison has Sold Over $45,000,000 in Tahoe Donner Real Estate. Listing Your Property for Sale or Planning a Purchase? Call Alison Elder Today.

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| Tahoe Donner News | May 2016