Tahoe Donner News December 2013 by Tahoe Donner Association

See pg. 16

2014 ANNUAL BUDGET REPORT

DECEMBER 2013

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Image courtesy of Eric Christensen

features

Departments

President’s Message Looking forward to 2014

Let’s Get Together December events

Monthly Calendar December events

2013: A Year in Review Photo collage

General Manager’s Message Reflecting on 2013

TAKE NOTE

Architectural Standards Office Homes on the rise

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

Budget Report

Farewell to Employees Longtime friends say goodbye

Annual Chamber Awards Large Business of the Year

Olympic Memories Our local Olympians

Community Christmas For local families in need

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Dangers and prevention

Truckee River Day Recap A true community event

Taking Care of Business October 26 board meeting recap

16 2014 Annual

VOL. 14, No. 12

Welcome

December 2013 EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION STAFF Alyson Stetz Brinn Talbot Gretchen Sproehnle Jenny Kendrick Joanie Engel Jill Oberly

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Tom Johns, btjtd@aol.com

Vice President

Jim Stang, jcstang@sbcglobal.net

Treasurer

Steve Miller, stephen.m.miller@wellsfargoadvisors.com

Secretary

Dick Gander, rwgander@yahoo.com

Director

Courtney Murrell, 2courtneymurrell@gmail.com

Board of Directors

board@tahoedonner.com

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

comdep@tahoedonner.com

Advertising Sales Tahoe Guide is the exclusive advertising representative for the Tahoe Donner News. Call 530-448-3065 or 530-587-1393.

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

President’s Message I am very pleased to announce that the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce awarded Tahoe Donner as Large Business of the Year. General Manager Robb Etnyre, Board Treasurer Steve Miller and I were present at the 2013 Annual Awards Dinner on October 29 at the Resort at Squaw Creek to accept the award. Among other items, the Chamber cited Tahoe Donner for its investment in the Truckee economy, environmental stewardship, innovation of services, contributions to the labor market through career opportunities and benefits for employees, and lastly, community involvement and contributions, such as our summer bus service to Truckee Thursdays that earned us special recognition from the Truckee Downtown Merchants Association earlier this year. Tahoe Donner is a community association, but it is also a multi-million dollar non-profit corporation. As with any well-run corporation, a budget must be prepared and implemented for each fiscal year. The annual budget process is extremely important since it establishes how the association’s income will run the company, perform maintenance and repairs, and operate our numerous firstclass amenities. The key to a good budget is a well-structured, organized and executed plan implemented through a team effort. Included in this edition of Tahoe Donner News is the Association’s 2014 Annual Budget Report. This document reflects the end product of many hours of effort contributed by management, the finance committee and the board. The lion’s share of that work was accom-

plished by Director of Finance and Accounting Mike Salmon who is to be commended for providing in-depth financial analysis and planning in the development of the 2014 budget. We are fortunate to have Mike, whose monthly financial reports rival or surpass many publicly-traded companies. While the association operates under the general premise that the public users of our amenities should bear the greater part of the cost to operate those amenities, our membership still expects to pay a member rate (i.e., discounted rate) when enjoying the facilities. Any shortfall between user-fee revenues and operating costs, however, must be made up in the annual assessment. Achieving the right balance between these two revenue sources presents a continuing challenge. I encourage you to spend some time reviewing the enclosed annual budget report and hope that you will find it informative. Keep in mind that at the end of the day, the objective is to collect the necessary funds to operate the association for the year and to save for long-term capital expenditures. An annual budget is the blueprint for the community and will determine its financial well-being for both the upcoming year and for years to come. Some changes have taken place at the Downhill Ski Area for this winter season. First, in order to meet growing demand for this operation, a new yurt structure has been installed. This is a 700 square-foot structure and sun deck located at the top of the Learning Center, between Snowbird and Eagle Rock (Continued on p. 8)

SATURDAY, december 14

Pray for Powder Movie Join us for a ski movie as we kick off another winter and pray for powder. See page 13.

through december 20

Holiday Parties at the Lodge Book a party at the Lodge Restaurant & Pub and every guest can ski for free at downhill or cross country! See ad on page 11.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31

For ADDITIONAL DECEMBER EVENTS and information SEE let’s get together on pAGE 10. DECEMBER 25

New Year’s Eve Dinner Ring in the New Year at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub with a celebratory menu and champagne toast. Details on page 15.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade Christmas Day Operating Hours

Close out 2013 with a flash! This fun, free

Tahoe Donner Downhill will be open 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Snowplay will be open 12 - 4:30

event is for intermediate skiers and riders ages

p.m. The Cross Country Ski Center will be open 12 - 5 p.m., see details starting on page 11.

10 or older. Details on page 12. tahoedonner.com |

FROM THE GENERAL MANager’s Desk

As we again enter the last month of the year, I thought it would be beneficial to reflect on Tahoe Donner’s accomplishments for 2013, as we continue to focus on maintaining and improving our great outdoor recreation community. Vision Statement: Tahoe Donner is a vibrant and desirable mountain community, with modern recreational facilities, events, programs, and leading customer service, surrounded by accessible and healthy natural resources.

Developing a vibrant and desirable mountain community can be a subjective formula; however, our board-approved strategic plan, goals, and annual budget process provides for focused initiatives to continue improving this great community. This past year, we concentrated our efforts in four principal areas as identified in our strategic vision: modernize our recreational facilities, improve our events and programs, enhance our customer service, and improve our natural resources. Modern Recreation Facilities Our 2030 General Plan and Reserve Replacement Plan are integral instruments to our strategic plan, as they outline a specific strategy to reinvest in our capital infrastructure in order to modernize, and in some cases completely replace the outdated and inadequate facilities. The details of the 2013 capital project achievements can be viewed on our website under the members/capital projects tab. Some of the immediately obvious results include the smaller, secondary entry monument signs to our community, expansion of the Lodge Restaurant & Pub, Golf Pro Shop, and T-9 grill, remodel of both the new forestry building and existing general maintenance building, addition of a ski school yurt at our downhill ski area, several significant trail improvements and rerouting projects along with countless other minor capital improvements around the association. Unfortunately, we were not able to tackle some long-standing shortfalls at our beach club marina this year for a variety of reasons, as I’ve previously written about, but I am still optimistic we will be able to address those deficiencies in the coming years as our budget allows. However, with much planning and project review, we are moving forward with plans to replace the existing Nordic/equestrian facility with a new, more functional facility specifically built to support our ever-growing and successful Nordic operation. With all necessary regulatory approvals this winter, we expect to break ground on this centerpiece to our outdoor recreationally-focused community next year! I can’t think of a better project to improve our members’ Nordic experience, along with the tremendous economic impact it will have on our greater community. This will be the only Nordic resort amenity in the Town of Truckee with one of the largest trail systems and one of the few purposely built Nordic facilities in North America. Events and Programs Events and programs were again at the forefront throughout the

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

summer and fall. From another first-place showing at the Truckee Fourth of July parade, our expanded two-day and two-weekend Waterpalooza event on the driving range, our Euer Valley BBQ, and the well-attended Fall Harvest Festival to our ever-expanding day camp and equestrian camps, youth tennis and golf programs, paddle board rentals, mountain bike rentals, and Wibit water toys at the marina and pool, these events and programs are being embraced by our membership in greater and greater numbers every season! Customer Service With the high service and vacation expectations of our membership, customer service is something we know our members immediately notice. This year we have made very deliberate efforts to raise the bar of excellence in customer service. From the post-summer season survey, which will directly influence countless areas of service and infrastructure improvements, to our daily review of customer service comment card feedback, this is an area the entire Tahoe Donner team is committed to. We value your feedback and I would encourage all our members to take a moment to drop us a note, or fill out a customer comment card at any one of the resort facilities you frequent. Good, bad, or indifferent, your feedback is gold and directly drives action in this organization. This summer we reviewed a new record number of customer comment cards. Thank you! Accessible and Healthy Natural Resources Implementation of the trails master plan has begun with the decommissioning of some user created and conflict trails and the introduction of several new trail alignments. Included was the creation of several loop trail systems and signage to help hikers better navigate our everexpanding multi-use trail system. Keep an eye out for annual trail improvements as our trails master plan unfolds these next several years. Additionally, the forestry department was busy with defensible space work treating a rather large tract of land along Skislope Way on the Bucknam Tract and McGlashan Springs property boundary; over 282 acres were treated. In addition, the Tahoe Donner forestry department assisted in the planting of over 4,000 trees on association property this year alone. 2014 Budget Included in the annual budget report (see page 16), the 2014 annual assessment will increase $95 over 2013. This is a result of several regulatory impacts as previously forecasted during our budget review process along with addressing long-term replacement reserve needs of the association. The Operating Fund revenue requirement for 2014

is $15 million, with operating revenues funding 64 percent and the annual assessment revenue funding the remaining 36 percent. For 2014 the operating fund assessment amount has been increased by $51 or 6 percent. This increase is driven primarily by regulatory cost increases in workers compensation and the California minimum wage increase. We were able to realize a considerable savings in employee health care coverage by moving to a partially self-funded model. The remaining $44 increase in the annual assessment went entirely to the long-term replacement reserve fund, which addresses the long-term replacement of over 1,600 capital components across the spectrum of the resort operations. Key Documents There seems to be an ever-growing volume of information available across almost every aspect of our lives. So, to help manage your reading list, I thought it would be useful to summarize the key documents each owner/member should review in order to stay engaged in their real estate investment and resort way of life here at Tahoe Donner.

Annual Review • Annual Budget Report (Dec.)/Annual Report (May) • Voting for board candidates. (June election – the most direct way to influence the strategic guidance developed for Tahoe Donner. Lately, only 25 percent of owners actually cast a ballot.) • Summer Fun Guide. Plan your summer vacation and reserve those camp dates! • Winter Resort Guide. Plan your winter vacation and book those ski lessons! Weekly Review • Member News – keep track of your real estate investment and local community priorities. • Weekly News – keep track of the fun.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays,

Robb Etnyre | General ManageR

Tahoe Donner CONTACTS Member Communications (area code 530) Member Services

587-9400

info@tahoedonner.com

General Manager

587-9431

gm@tahoedonner.com

Contact Member Services to be transferred to other administrative departments.

Amenities Alder Creek Campground 587-9462

campground@tahoedonner.com

Beach Club Marina

marina@tahoedonner.com

587-9460

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

xcski@tahoedonner.com

Downhill Ski Area

587-9444

ski@tahoedonner.com

Equestrian Center

587-9470

equestrian@tahoedonner.com

Forestry 587-9432 forestry@tahoedonner.com Golf Course

587-9443

golf@tahoedonner.com

The Lodge

587-9455

lodge@tahoedonner.com

Pizza On The Hill

582-9669

pizza@tahoedonner.com

Recreation Info Hut

587-9413

troutcreek@tahoedonner.com

Tennis Center

587-9474

tennis@tahoedonner.com

“ 22 Years of Selling Real Estate in Truckee”

Trails 587-9432 trails@tahoedonner.com Trout Creek Rec. Center

587-9437

troutcreek@tahoedonner.com

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

alandjosi@gmail.com

Elections, Nan Carnal

ncarnal@sfsu.edu

Finance, Jeff Bonzon

jdbonzon@yahoo.com

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

Tahoe Donner Association Chartered Club Presidents Bridge Club, Diane Rowe

d2rowe@earthlink.net

Friends of TD Trails, B.R. Levine

tdtrails@gmail.com

Rowing Club, Dot Mace

dotmace@me.com

Senior Alpine Ski, Jim Pyle

jim.p@sbcglobal.net

Tahoe Donner Green, Sue Sorensen

tahoedonnergreenclub@gmail.com

Tennis, John McGregor

jmpj1964@gmail.com.

9-Holers, Barb McCabe

barbmccabe@sbcglobal.net

Men’s Golf, Bob Moore

bob4moore@aol.com

Women’s Golf, Diane Kalliam

dkalliam@gmail.com

Hiking Club, Robin Reese

rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Quilt Club, Linda Brush

sewlinda@aol.com

Junior Golf Club, Jean Lai

jslai@comcast.net

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tahoedonner.com |

Bulletin Board

Tahoe Donner says farewell to longtime employees

deciding to move to Tahoe Donner after visiting her son who had a second home here. Jane loved being a frontline contact with homeowners and always looked forward to coming in to work. She also believes Tahoe Donner has the most amazing employees and will miss working with the staff here and being a day-to-day contact with homeowners. Jane recently moved to Reno, so she is just a short drive away and still makes visits up to Truckee a few times a week for church as well as for the Caring Group, a group that serves families in difficult times of illness, and she also spends time working with Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO), a philanthropy that promotes educational opportunities for women.

Enid Longo, ASO Manager After working at Tahoe Donner for 10 years, Enid Longo has retired from her role as Architectural Standards Office (ASO) manager. Enid took on the role of office associate for ASO 10 years ago when she moved to the mountains to live in Tahoe Donner with her husband Roger and their dog Fargo. Prior to working at Tahoe Donner, Enid served as a legal assistant at a law firm. Her meticulousness and legal-minded professionalism made her a great fit for her role in the ASO office. Enid worked her way up the ranks and in 2010 she was promoted to ASO manager. Enid and her husband enjoyed living in Tahoe Donner with all it has to offer. Enid’s husband Roger served on several committees throughout the years, including the finance committee, and his volunteer efforts were greatly appreciated. In retirement, Enid and Roger decided to move to the Delta/Bay Area to be closer to their family and spend more time with their grandchildren.

Jane Landstrom, Member Services Associate Jane Landstrom recently retired after working at Tahoe Donner for 11 years. She started out at Tahoe Donner as summertime help for Member Services in 2002 and became a full time employee in 2007. She eventually went back to part-time a few years before retiring this September. Originally from England, Jane lived in Syracuse, New York before

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

Julie VanValkenburg, HR Specialist Julie VanValkenburg has been with Tahoe Donner since 2003 when she started as the Trout Creek front desk host; she worked in the Human Resources department since 2008 when she took on the role of Human Resources coordinator. Julie has been the friendly face that welcomes employees when they walk through the door at Human Resources. Julie has contributed tremendously to Tahoe Donner with her excellent customer service skills, attending to both managers and support staff within the company. Julie is described by coworkers and employees as someone who is always helpful and friendly, and someone who genuinely cares. She is known for going above expectations, including finding housing for Tahoe Donner’s seasonal employees, driving them around, and generally helping them to feel at home. Julie was not just an employee, but a true friend to many. Julie and her husband, a talented chef, are moving to Silverton, Oregon to pursue their dream of opening their own restaurant and growing and serving their own fresh produce. Julie’s favorite thing about working for Tahoe Donner—and what she’ll miss most—is the people who make up this great company. Tahoe Donner would like to extend a big thank you to Enid, Jane and Julie for all their hard work and everything they have contributed to Tahoe Donner over the years. We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

tahoedonner.com |

(continued from p. 2) chairlifts, which will allow us to provide a slopeside warming area and gathering space during lessons that is separated from the public. Additionally, the ski lodge received some upgrades this fall intended to improve our patrons’ experience, such as new tile in the kitchen and cafeteria, paint and upgraded carpeting downstairs, and concrete deck repairs. This operation is scheduled to open December 13, weather permitting. Remember, Tahoe Donner is the “Best Place to Begin” with excellent lessons and programs for all age groups. My granddaughters have taken lessons at other resorts, and none have been as successful as those at Tahoe Donner. For you downhill skiers, consider joining the TD Senior Alpine Ski Club that now boasts over 180 members. The club offers Tahoe Donner Alpine skiers, age 55 and above who ski at an intermediate, advanced, or expert level the opportunity to ski various resorts around the basin with reduced group rates. Resorts include: Northstar, Homewood, Sugar Bowl, Mt. Rose, Squaw Valley, and Alpine Meadows. Our Cross Country Ski Center is offering a new Skating 101 program this season. You can

Editorial Correction to President’s Message, November issue: The article also incorrectly stated that California legislature increased the minimum wage from $9 to $10 effective July 1, 2013. Current minimum wage is actually going to increase from $8 per hour to $9 per hour July 1, 2014.

In the November 2013 President’s Message, when discussing the workers compensation premium increase, the value of increase was incorrect. The article stated that the association’s “premium soared from $36,000 to $52,700,” when in fact this year’s workers compensation premium rose from approximately $360,000 to $527,000.

We regret these errors and apologize for any confusion. Thank you to those who noted the errors.

The Lodge will be serving dinner on Christmas Eve, but will be closed on Christmas Day. Also, please plan on joining us for a very special dinner on New Year’s Eve. Chef Lew has finalized the menu, it may be viewed at tahoedonner.com/the-lodge. Reservations are being accepted now. I hope you can spend some time in Tahoe Donner for the holidays. Best wishes to all for a prosperous New Year!

take lessons to learn the basic and most essential techniques of cross country skating. With over 100 kilometers of expertly groomed trails and a variety of breathtaking vistas, you’ll ski through forests, aspen groves, and even into Euer Valley. Last season we designated a few trails as dog trails during certain hours of operation and the feedback was so positive, this year you can bring man’s best friend on those same trails: Cup of Tea, Piece of Cake, and Dogonit. For dog season pass forms and additional details on hours, costs, and rules, go to tahoedonner.com/cross-country/dog-trails.

TOM JOHNS | Board President

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| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

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Beautiful Chalet Nestled on Greenbelt

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Located in the prestigious Swiss Lane area of Tahoe Donner, this lovely Chalet offers amazing upgrades, 4 bedrooms (2 en-suite masters), 3.5 baths, chef’s kitchen, slab granite, BIG family room and open great room living. Enjoy the wood burning fireplace, overlook the serene greenbelt setting beyond the sunny deck. Adjacent lot and turnkey furnishings (negotiable) make this a unique opportunity! $785,000

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Delightful Chalet on Bavarian

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Custom designed and delightful Chalet with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, loft + bonus room! Wonderful location, private and sunny, BIG garage, nestled in the woods in lower Tahoe Donner. Immaculately maintained, you’ll love the open floor plan, large windows and sunny interior in this classic 1,470± s.f. home. You’ll follow the sun with the southern exposure, a spacious front deck and BIG rear ground-floor deck. Furnishings negotiable. $495,000

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Beautiful Bear Meadows Condo

New Listing

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This top to bottom reinvigoration includes new appliances, flooring, modern gas fireplace, baths, AV system, window coverings and more! This beautiful unit can be purchased turnkey. 3 bedrooms (2 bedrooms + office). VIEWS of the Carson Range & Tahoe Donner’s ski hill. Wow! $445,000

11752ChateauWay.com Nestled on prestigious Chateau Way in Tahoe Donner. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, loft for the kids & open floor plan. BIG new garage! $455,000

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The Scoop on Alison Elder: The Elder Family supports Mountain Area Preservation www.mapf.org

tahoedonner.com |

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Preparations continue in getting the trails ready for the season. R NNE Crews have been out brush cutting, tossing rocks and spreading wood E DO O E H A C N chips to improve conditions for early skiing. Thanks to all whoT came RIAN T S E I QU out this fall and volunteered their time to help improve E our trails. P EN

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rifle marksmanship. Children will be coached to improve their skiing skills and learn marksmanship and gun safety using specially-designed, R NNE 100-percent safe laser biathlon rifles. Biathlon was first appointed E D O as D S O H TA AR an Olympic sport at the Squaw Valley Olympics in 1960, and is U now one IFEG L E of the most popular winter sports for spectators in parts of Europe. R BE H AT T H E NNE E DO S Former U.S. biathlonTteam and Tahoe Donner member Tom A H O member C I T U Aafter-school McElroy will be leading sessions. Stay tuned to our AQeight BE HE ER AT for N Nclinic T H E children and adults to try biathlon on O page for opportunities D NT OE TA H EVE C I A L weekends too. AT

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Ages: 2nd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8th graders, all levels welcome Dates: Jan. 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 11, 2014 Time: 3:45 to 5 p.m.

Cost: $120; includes 8 skiing and biathlon sessions including the use of laser biathlon rifles and skating or striding gear depending on conditions of the day.

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

New Real Time Grooming Report at Cross Country Tahoe Donner Cross Country is installing a new high-tech grooming reporting system this year which uses GPS technology to give real-time grooming reports. The software automatically analyzes data from the GPS devices installed on the machines and updates a map on our website of what has been or is currently being groomed in real time. See the conditions page on tahoedonner.com/cross-country to watch as our trails open for the season. In other trail news, you will notice our warming huts have all had some TLC with fresh stain and repairs completed this summer. Also, a new trail has been made to link Firewalker and Hastings – providing a loop option out on these north-facing slopes that hold that cold winter snow so well. There are several new fun events planned for the season

including the chance to go skiing in Euer Valley under the full moon, a 40-kilometer challenge to ski the perimeter of the Cross Country Ski Center, a fun run on skis to encourage non-racers to experience the challenge, A Taste of Truckee, our new on-snow gourmet food tasting event, and a family fun day. Of course, returning this year are our old favorites: the Skogsloppet fundraiser race for the local school ski teams, Full Moon Ski and Snowshoe tours, equipment demo day, and the Tour D’Euer are all on the schedule. Be sure to check all event details at tahoedonner.com/crosscountry/events and mark your calendars.

December Events

Clinics and Programs Don’t forget to invest in your technique this year! Take advantage of the vast knowledge that our ski school offers. Choose a private lesson or sign up for one of our eight-week long programs for children and adults to help take your skiing to the next level. Topics include improved downhill control, video analysis, and classic and skating improvement. We are currently taking signups for our Masters, women’s and kids programs; and new to the lineup of programs is our Skating 101 group for folks who want to learn to skate this year, offered on Monday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m. Be sure to check the website for all other clinic times and dates. tive than you may have on skis. Date: Sundays, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29 Time: 10:30 a.m. – noon Cost: $30 or $59 for rental, trail and tour package.

Equipment Demo Day Reps will have their latest and greatest equipment to demo including equipment by Fischer, Swix, Salomon, Madshus, Rossignol and others. Learn from the equipment experts what’s best for you, then test and compare it first-hand. Date: Thursday, Dec. 27 Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: Free with trail pass.

sally jones | CROSS COUNTRY ski CENTER manager

Passholder Bring a Friend Days We are offering a great deal for guests of season passholders— unlimited guests allowed! Passholder must be present. Dates: Dec 13 - 20 Cost: $15 trail pass; $10 rentals.

Learn to be a Cross Country Instructor Ever wondered if you have what it takes to teach skiing? An all-day learn to teach cross country skiing event will be offered as part of the Professional Ski Instructors Association (PSIA)/Far West Nordic Ski Education Association (FWNSEA) Cross Country Ski Festival. See psiaw.org for details. Open to the public. Date: Saturday, Dec. 14 Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. COST: $70

Full Moon Ski and Snowshoe Tour and Dinner Don’t miss this moonlight ski and snowshoe tour, dinner and wine tasting. Tours usually fill up. Preregister at tahoedonner.com/shop to reserve your spot. Date: Saturday, Dec. 14 Time: 5-8 p.m. Cost: $45 for adults; $30 for 12 and under .

Snowshoe Tour Learn more about snowshoeing, explore the trails at Tahoe Donner and learn about local fauna and flora. This is a great way to slow down and enjoy the scenery on different trails and from a different perspec-

Holiday Party = Ski for Free! Book a party at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub and every guest can ski for free at the Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area or Cross Country Ski Center! We offer several options for parties of 20 or more people in a private room or a complete buy out. Visit tahoedonner.com/event-groups to view our menus including passed appetizers and buffet choices. Plated options are available upon request. The Lodge Restaurant & Pub has panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra scenery and now offers a new enclosed porch!

At Santa’s request, all room charges and site fees will be waived for Christmas parties before December 20. For more menu options on our holiday parties, please contact group sales at 530-582-9643 or email groupsales@tahoedonner.com

tahoedonner.com |

and tell us what you think. Throughout the Christmas Holiday season, our rental shop will have extended hours for your convenience. Hours will be available on our website. Tahoe Donner Downhill is hiring for the 2013-14 season in various departments. Applications are available online at tahoedonner.com/ employment or in person at the Human Resources office at the Northwoods Clubhouse. For more information, please contact the Downhill Ski Area at 530587-9444 or visit tahoedonner.com/downhill-ski. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for special deals. See you on the slopes!

Robert Mcclendon | downhill ski area manager

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T T H at the torchlight parade on New Year’s TClose out 2013 with aAflash VEN E Eve. This fun event is for intermediate skiers and riders ages 10 or L A

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older who can ski or ride unassisted in the dark on our Race Course run. Come early to secure a spot in the parade. A DJ and snacks will be provided in the bar area prior to the parade. DATE: Tuesday, Dec. 31 cost: free time: Sign-ups are from 4:30 - 5:45 p.m. with a chair

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M AERR S I ONN REGULAR Hours: T Fridays: - 4:30 p.m.; Saturdays and N OE D E N N1:30 TA H EK R E AT I O E R C E T D R N Sundays: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 NCustomer Appreciation Day Sunday C Ep.m. REC R O U We want to thank you for your stellar support by celebrating E R HOLIDAY S N Hours: Open daily, Dec. 20 Jan. 5: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. D N R O TE OO OE D E NCHRISTMAS W C TA H H N Customer Appreciation Day ! AND NEW YEARS DAY Hours: 12 - 4:30 p.m. T IA OR OOL ST R N E U P DATE: Sunday, Dec. 15 EQ K R R E E $5!D NNE COST: everyone skis D for December Special Snowplay Events R Conly E E DO N O U AL H O RKS TA R O G W S P BIKE OOD C A M Breakfast Christmas Day Pancake Night Tubing W R H E N R T E DON OR O N Ntreasures Santa left for you overnight, come S E discovering O L tube Each nighttime tuber will receive a glowN stick andPaO lighted HOE O E D the R DS U RAfter TA H O A C U at our annual Christmas Day Pancake BreakF R meet the jolly with an admission ticket. E Gfellow NNE I F old L E DO S O E H BE ER TA Dec. O fast. After breakfast come out for a half day of skiing and riding with DATE: FRIDAY, 20R K E H AT T H W E S K C Santa. The ski lifts will open at 11:30 a.m. Have you ever had the chance TIME: 4:30-6:30 B I p.m. N TA

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Snowball Launching Contest Check out Snowplay’s new targets and snow creature features in the snowball launching zone. Use one of our snowball launchers and see how far your snowball can fly! The contest includes three chances to be the winner of the farthest snowball launched. DATE: SATURDAY, Dec. 28 TIME: 1:30 p.m.

Other Snowplay activities include: • Snowshoe rentals for kids and adults: $7.50 for two hours • Special weekend appearances by Parker the Penguin, Snowplay’s mascot.

loading time at 6:15 p.m.

Have you ever tried telemark skiing? Our rental shop has received a shipment of brand new Black Diamond telemark skis. Check them out

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

Purchase your tickets at the Snow Shack at the entrance of Snowplay or at the front desk of the Trout Creek Recreation Center. Please, no personal sleds allowed.

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Wow! What an impressive group of centurions — we were so proud to celebrate them all this year. On Oct. 18 we honored over 75 Century Club inductees with wine and hors d’oeuvres and a commemorative T-shirt for all those challengers who made N E R it to Trout Creek 100 times N E DO O O N Centurion and Fitness H A T ISupreme since Jan. 1, 2013. We also Tcrowned our EA R C Centurions for 2013: R E P R V

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Friday Family Movie Night Free! Bring a pillow and blanket, kick up your feet and enjoy either a classic or new movie starting at 6:30 p.m. every Friday at the Northwoods Clubhouse. Friday Family Movie Night movies are rated G and PG. Check with Member Services for this month’s lineup. Join us Dec. 14 for a special movie night at the Northwoods Clubhouse at 6:30 p.m. as we kick off an amazing snow season with a ski movie. Free for all to attend as we pray for powder. For specific movie details please call the Trout Creek Recreation Center at 530-587-9437.

Trivia Night Free! Thursdays at 6: 30 p.m., enjoy a pizza from Pizza on the Hill while showing off your brain power. See if your team will be the winner of a free pizza and bragging rights. There will be no trivia on Dec. 26.

Full Moon Showshoe Hikes Need something new to do? Take that special someone out to enjoy a night of snowshoeing under the full moon! Our trained snowshoe guides will be ready to take you and a group out on an enchanted evening under the stars. Meet at Trout Creek. Reserve your spot 48 hours in advance by calling the Trout Creek Rec Center at 530-587-9437. DATE: SATURDAY, Dec. 28

Come on by Trout Creek and check out the Century Club Hall of Fame in the gym-side hallway and see if you or someone you know made the honored list. The 2014 Challenge will begin on Jan. 1, 2014. If you participated in 2013 you will automatically be registered. If you would like to join this prestigious group of challengers please contact us with your name, email address, phone number, and T-shirt size at troutcreek@tahoedonner.com. Participation is free and you will receive monthly emails about upcoming Trout Creek opportunities to stay motivated, educated, and healthy in 2014! (Continued on p. 14)

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Fall & Winter Discounts Available

TIME: 5:30 - 7 p.m. COST: $7.50 per person with your own snowshoes, $15 for hike and snowshoe rental. Kids, women’s and men’s snowshoeS are available with poles.

SPECIAL: New Year’s Eve Sunset Snowshoe Please reserve your spot 48 hours in advance by calling the Trout Creek Rec Center at 530-587-9437. DATE/Time: Tuesday, Dec. 31, 3:30 - 5:15 p.m. COST: $7.50 per person with your own snowshoes, $15 for hike and snowshoe rental.

• Free Estimates • Credit Cards Accepted • 530 587-7298 530

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(continued from p. 13)

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Kids Club is offering evening hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3 – 7 p.m. Hours Thursday through Monday will stay the same from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Come take advantage of this new trial option through December and give us your feedback at troutcreek@tahoedonner.com. For more details call 530-587-9437.

Kids Night Out: Kids 4-9 years old are invited to join in the fun with crafts, dinner and a movie as well as milk and cookies at Northwoods Clubhouse. Registration required 24 hours in advance by calling Trout Creek Recreation center at 530-587-9437 or by registering on ShopTD. Cost is $20 per child. A minimum of five participants is required. DATE: FRIDAY, DEC. 6 TIME: 5-9 P.M.

LISA HUSSAR | RECREATION manager

HAPPY HOLIDAYS.

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E including our season opening Icebreaker, the Junior/Senior, the Club IAL PEC S Championship, the Member/Guest Invitational and season-ending Memorial Tournament.

NCGA Qualifier Tournaments – These are for golfers who want to compete with the rest of northern California golfers to become NCGA champions. Golfers who win the Tahoe Donner tournament move on to compete with winners from other clubs, and a champion is eventually crowned. Four tournaments were held including individual tournaments, two-man tournaments (one for seniors) and a four-man tournament. Wednesday Skins and Team Games – Every Wednesday afternoon we had a block of tee times reserved for informal skins games and twice a month we added a team game option. The Wednesday games provided an opportunity to come out and meet new players or compete informally with old friends.

Friendly Matches – We played a friendly home and away match with Somerset this fall, which we narrowly won. Next year we plan to add Incline Village. These are great opportunities to play some new courses while enjoying both the social and competitive aspects of golf.

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

L F We hopeI that those of you who did the Tahoe Donner Men’s GolfO G Club. EN B L I C year AM not take advantage of the activitiesP Uthis will be tempted to join us next season. All these activities are managed by a group of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers who enjoy the camaraderie. We are always looking for more folks to join the fun so if you are interested in joining the Men’s Club or in helping with any of the activities described below, pleaseN E R ON OE D contact our membership chairman, Pat Gemma at patgemma1@att.net. TA H ICS

Interclub Competitions – Tahoe Donner fielded a 12-man team to compete in the NCGA interclub competition. A league of four teams (this year included Whitney Oaks, Turkey Creek and The Ridge) play home and away Ryder Cup-like matches. Tahoe Donner barely missed winning our league (last year we did win the league).

800.452.3060 • www.snowtech.net CSLB #825998 • 17356 Northwoods Blvd.

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Kids Club

Join coach Lisa for Swim Club on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. for a 45-minute to one-hour structured swim workout, camaraderie, and some tips to help you toward your goal. As an added bonus you can avoid that holiday 5-pound weight gain.

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Trout Creek Holiday Hours Please note holiday hours for the following dates: Dec. 24: 6 a.m.-6 p.m.; Dec. 25: 12-6 p.m.; Dec. 31: 6 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Jan. 1: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

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TD Cup - The TD Cup is a season-long competition that awards points for participating in and doing well in both the Tahoe Donner and NCGA tournaments. The top 14 qualifiers join our director and assistant director of golf in a two-day Ryder Cup-like competition in the spring. This year we played at Saddle Creek in Copperopolis.

Dining Options The Lodge Restaurant & Pub

plates, soups and salads, plus enjoy drink specials. Not valid Dec. 25 or Jan. 1.

Dinner

No Corkage Tuesdays*

For our regular hours the dining room is open nightly at 5 p.m. for dinner with artisan-crafted cuisine and spirits. For the holidays the Pub will be open every day at 4 p.m. with the pub menu, Dec. 26 - Jan. 4. The Lodge will be open Christmas Eve from 4 - 8 p.m. serving from the regular menu plus specials; reservations are recommended. For more information, call 530-587-9455 or visit tahoedonner.com/the-lodge.

Holiday Party Bookings Please check our website or call ahead before visiting us this month, as we will be closed on some dates due to holiday party bookings.

Happy Hour* Drink specials and 25 percent off shared plates, soups and salads from 5 – 6:30 p.m. offered Sunday-Thursday. Happy hour discounts valid in The Pub only. Not valid Dec. 20 – Jan. 4.

WildER Wednesdays* Happy Hour specials all night long in the entire restaurant! Take 25 percent off shared

Pizza on the Hill Through Dec. 16, open Thursday through Monday. Starting Dec. 19, open seven days a week through Jan. 6. Dinner is served from 5 - 8:30 p.m. Closed Christmas Day. For more information, please call 530-582-9669.

Happy Hour*

Bring in a special bottle of wine from home to savor in the dining room and we’ll waive the corkage fee on Tuesdays. Every other day of the week, bring in a bottle of wine from home and we’ll waive the corkage fee when you purchase a bottle from our extensive wine list. Offer valid during non-holiday periods. Not valid Dec. 24 or Jan. 31.

Three-Course Meal Deal* One of the best deals in town! Through Dec. 18, enjoy a delicious three-course meal and glass of house wine for only $25, Sunday through Thursday through Dec. 18.

New Year’s Eve Ring in the New Year at The Lodge. Seating will be available from 4 – 10 p.m. Enjoy a special celebratory menu and champagne toast at midnight. Reservations are required and will be held with a credit card. See the menu at tahoedonner.com/the-lodge. *Offers listed are only valid during non-holiday periods and are not valid with any other promotions or coupons. All offers subject to change.

Residential • Commercial

p.m. Prizes include gift certificates for free pizza. Event will be cancelled at 7:15 p.m. if there is insufficient attendance by that time.

Friday Family Night Movies Every Friday night at Northwoods Clubhouse enjoy a pizza before the free movie. See page 13 for details.

A great way to quench your thirst! Get $2 Coors Light drafts, $3 other draft beer, $3 house cabernet or chardonnay by the glass and half-price wings and nachos at our happy hour from 5 - 6 p.m., Sunday-Thursday. Not valid Dec. 20 – Jan. 4.

Sunday Half-Price Pizza*

Thursday Night Trivia

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

Trivia buffs, test your trivia knowledge from local history to current events and win prizes. Trivia Night is held from 6:30 to 8

Serving Truckee/Lake Tahoe

Half-price pizza all night every Sunday. Order a cheese or pepperoni pizza for half price. This offer is now valid for dine-in or to-go orders! Limit 6 pizzas per group. Not valid Dec. 22 and Dec. 29.

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Last month, all Tahoe Donner homeowners should have received their annual assessment invoices in the mail. For those who may have missed it, the letter below accompanied the invoice. If you did not receive your invoice, please contact Wendy Clifton at 530-587-9417 or wclifton@tahoedonner.com.

NEW MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT FUND $30, 2% DEVELOPMENT FUND $250, 15%

The annual budget report, included in this issue starting on the next page, has a detailed breakdown of the annual assessment, as well as the board-approved budget for 2014. Please take a few moments to review this document and to stay informed on important information concerning your homeowners association.

REPLACEMENT RESERVE FUND $478, 30%

Additionally, all information may be viewed online at tahoedonner.com/financials.

OPERATING FUND $842, 53%

TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION 2014 ANNUAL ASSESSMENT, $1600 PER PROPERTY November 15, 2013 Dear Tahoe Donner Association Owners, Over the last few months, the Board of Directors worked with Management and the Finance Committee to develop the 2014 Annual Budget. The Budget was approved on October 26, 2013, following several open meetings where many financial and economic factors were discussed and analyzed. The end result of this process, which directly impacts each owner, was the establishment of our 2014 Annual Assessment at $1600 per property, an increase of $95 over 2013. This mailing contains your 2014 assessment invoice, due January 1, 2014. Please refer to the enclosed invoice for important details regarding payment of your Assessment. As illustrated above, the Assessment consists of an Operating Fund portion and three Capital Fund portions.

The Operating Fund covers the annual net operating cost of running our Association and provides us our amenities, customer services, and association administration. The Operating Fund revenue requirement is $15 million, with operating revenues funding 64% and annual assessment revenue funding the remaining 36%. For 2014 the operating fund assessment amount has been increased by $51 or 6% to $842. This increase is driven primarily by regulatory driven cost increases in workers compensation ($29) and CA minimum wage ($8); and a payroll merit increase average of 2.5% for personnel ($30). Important to note, by changing to a partially self-funded health insurance model we avoided an additional cost increase of $25 per property. The 2014/2015 Recreation Fee has increased $20 to $245 in order to cover cost increases without impacting service levels. Bottom Line: A $51 increase ($4.25 per month) in assessment funding for operations driven by numerous cost pressures, while maintaining levels of service

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

with a continued focus on cost control efforts and increased participation by our Members. Capital Funds allow the association to maintain our current

assets (replacement reserve), purchase new assets to meet new needs (new machinery and equipment), and provide capital to expand and/or replace aging infrastructure (development). Failure to fund this component ultimately impacts the overall value of our Association and the value of each individual ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property. With this fiduciary responsibility in mind, the Board increased the contribution to Replacement Reserve Fund for 2014 to keep the Association financially healthy and to protect our aging investment. Bottom Line: Capital Funds portion increased $44 ($3.67 per month) and amounts to $758 per property (47% of the Assessment). As you enjoy the numerous recreational opportunities, we trust you see the continued value of ownership reflected in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Assessment. The diversity of the Association is reflected in the complexity of our annual budget. The comprehensive 2014 Annual Budget Report will be provided in the December 2013 issue of Tahoe Donner News, our official communication medium. You may view this report and other financial information at tahoedonner.com. Sincerely,

Stephen M. Miller, Treasurer

Mike Salmon, Director of Finance and Accounting

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Tahoe Donner Named Large Business of the Year Tahoe Donner was named Large Business of the Year by the Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce at the 2013 Annual Chamber of Commerce Awards held Oct. 29. The criteria of this award is based on being active in the business community; engagement in solving problems within the area; enhancement and investment in the area’s economy; contributions to the labor market through career opportunities and benefits for employees; community involvement and contributions; and support of Chamber programs. “We are incredibly honored by this award and sincerely appreciate the recognition,” said Robb Etnyre, Tahoe Donner Association general manager. “Our entire team at Tahoe Donner deserves congratulations for this great achievement.” The Chamber of Commerce awarded Tahoe Donner with Large Business of the Year with the following introduction:

Involved in solving issues facing the community, the leadership of this business collectively volunteer their time to over a dozen organizations. Contributions to the labor market are evident by their expansion of their overall workforce by 25 percent over the past four years, and the addition of 10 full-time positions. They are generous with local area support and donated over $125,000 in product this past year to more than 500 local organizations – and share their recreational facilities for local sports team practice. Understanding the importance of the environment to the sustainability of the area, they acquired and will preserve for the community’s enjoyment almost 1,000 acres. Their reforestation efforts include annual plantings and the removal of green waste. Further environmentally-friendly activity includes reducing traffic and travel impacts by providing free shuttle service to high-volume special events such as

Truckee Thursday, transporting over 2,000 passengers downtown. We all speak of the value and importance of the second homeowner to our economy – this organization plays an active role in bridging that gap and integrating this group into our community. With almost 6,500 units – 75 percent of which are second homeowners – we are indeed fortunate to have the efforts of this organization in our community. Tahoe Donner is in good company with many notable past recipients of this award such as Northstar California (2012), Squaw Valley (2011) and Mountain Hardware & Sports (2010), not to mention the other respectable nominees this year which included Clear Capital, Mountain Hardware & Sports, Northstar California, Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, Sierra College, Squaw Valley, Sugar Bowl Resort, and Tahoe Forest Hospital.

tahoedonner.com |

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OLYMpIC MEMORIES

As the Sochi Olympics draw near, here at Tahoe Donner we are looking forward to celebrating the Winter Olympic Games. This is the first of a three-part series on the Olympics. We’ve rounded up a few of our local athletes and asked them to relate what it was like to be an Olympian. Next up, we’ll talk to some of our Olympic hopefuls who could soon be earning a spot on Team USA in Sochi (January issue). Finally, we’ll hear from some of our local kids who either started at or are training at Tahoe Donner, to learn of their Olympic dreams (February issue). Stay tuned!

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, N.Y.) cs (L ak e Placid 19 80 Wi nt er Olympi When reflecting on his road to the Olympics, Glenn Jobe remembers the many people who helped him along the way. This experience – the journey to the Olympics, more than the event itself – influenced him so much that he has dedicated his life to helping young Nordic ski racers by coaching, officiating, and otherwise supporting Olympic hopefuls in some way or another. Jobe, who competed in the 1980 Winter Olympics at Lake Placid, N.Y. as a member of the U.S. biathlon team, was not your typical child prodigy in the sport. In fact, he didn’t even pick up the sport of cross country skiing until the age of 21. Already a competitor on the Alpine ski team at University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), Jobe decided to take up cross country skiing in his senior year there. “It went well for me, so I decided to try the national racing circuit. I then met the U.S. biathlon team coach, and he invited me to a camp. I gave myself five years to make it happen, and it ended up working out,” he explains. It worked out indeed. After being named to Team USA for Lake Placid and competing in the Olympics, he went on to win the U.S. national title in the 20-kilometer biathlon distance in 1981. “I was fortunate to have the background in Alpine skiing,” says Jobe, who lettered at UNR in Alpine skiing in 1971-1972 and then again in cross country skiing in 1972-1973. “The different disciplines were helpful, because I had a comfort level with gliding on snow,” he adds. Jobe later founded Kirkwood Cross Country Center and then, with business partner Peter Werbel, was the guiding figure at Tahoe Donner Cross Country, opening in the winter of 1985-1986. Jobe’s passion for the sport has kept him working in the Nordic ski world in some capacity or another, and today, over 30 years after his Olympic performance, he remains one of the most sought-after coaches

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

for both junior and Masters racers. He continues to coach here at Tahoe Donner Cross Country, with both Masters and biathlon clinics on his schedule for this winter. Jobe’s favorite Olympic memory? “It was all exciting, but I was able to get some tickets to all the hockey games, and it was really cool to see the ‘Miracle on Ice’ (USA vs. Russia). I’d have to say that was the highlight!”

Look Greek to you? OK, bad pun… it’s actually Russian. It means, “Hot.Cool.Yours” and it’s the slogan for the Sochi Winter Olympics. Of course, we aren’t all lucky enough to head across the globe to watch in person, but we here at TD News thought we’d provide a few key phrases to help you navigate the Russian language over the next few months, even if your front-row seat to the Olympic action is your living room sofa. According to U.S. Department of Defense, Russian is a category III language, one of the most difficult in the world. But, не беспокойтесь! (No worries). Read on, brush up on a few phrases, and impress your friends and co-workers with your apparent command of the Russian language as you rattle off Russian words and expressions like the ones listed below: привет = hello (pronounced “priv-yet”) до свидания = goodbye (pronounced “da-svidanya”) извините = please (pronounced “iz-vi-ni-tih-ye”) спасибо = thank you (pronounced “spa-siba”) And for those of you lucky enough to go to Sochi: извините, где горнолыжные? = Excuse me, which way to the ski resort? (pronounced “Iz-vi-ni-tih-ye, geh-dee-yeh gor-nol-zhnee”) Stay tuned for more Russian lessons in upcoming issues of Tahoe Donner News. Until then, пока! (See you later!)

Katerina Nash 1996 Summer Olympics – Atlanta, Ga. 1998 Winter Olympics – Nagano, Japan 2002 Winter Olympics – Salt Lake City, Utah 2012 Summer Olympics – London, England While it’s no secret that Tahoe and Truckee has its share of elite athletes, not many of them are gifted enough to compete at an international level in two completely different sports. A very special four-time Olympian, Katerina Nash, is a celebrated cross country skier, but she will also go down in history as one of the most accomplished mountain bikers North America has ever seen. The Glenshire resident loves the Tahoe-Truckee area and often skis —and coaches clinics—right here at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center. Her humble demeanor belies her accomplishments. “It’s a little all over the place,” she laughs, recalling her participation in the Olympics. Nash got her start in both sports as a youngster growing up in the Czech Republic, where she joined a mountain biking team in high school. “That’s where bike racing started for me. I was able to turn a summer fun adventure into a more serious thing,” she says. She competed in her first Olympics for the Czech mountain biking team in Atlanta in 1996. In the meantime, it became clear that Nash was equally as talented on skis as she was on a bike. Earning a spot on the Czech national cross country ski team, Nash competed in the Winter Olympics in 1998 in Nagano, Japan. It was there that she met her future husband, fellow cross country ski Olympian Marcus Nash, who introduced her to the Tahoe-Truckee area. She was offered a skiing scholarship to University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), where Marcus was also a student athlete, and the two eventually settled in Truckee. After competing for the Czech Republic in the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics in 2002, she had reached the end of her eligibility for collegiate ski racing, so Nash decided to focus back on cycling. “Cross country skiers are some of the most versatile athletes,” she says, adding that they often cross train on a bicycle. It was a natural transition for her to get back into the competitive cycling world.

Once again rising to the top of the heap, Nash narrowly missed making the Czech team for Beijing, but, undaunted, earned a spot for the London Olympics last summer. With a coveted position on the LUNA Chix professional mountain bike team, Nash has lately achieved even more success with the cyclocross discipline, which has seen new popularity in recent years. The UNR graduate has been a strong contender in World Cup races, and finished fourth at the World Cyclo-cross Championships last year. Just a few weeks ago, she continued her dominance with a trio of victories in an Iowa City, Iowa cyclo-cross competition. Looking forward to spending less time on planes, Nash has announced that she will remain on the Luna team but will shift her focus to a more domestic schedule for both mountain biking and cyclo-cross next year. When asked about a fond Olympic memory, Nash remembers the Nagano Olympics. She was able to watch the final hockey game, where the Czech Republic ended up beating Russia. “This was in the early years after our country’s independence from Russia,” she recalls. “To be in the stadium and support the team — that was pretty cool.”

tahoedonner.com |

2013: a year in review A LOOK BACK AT THE EVENTS THAT MADE 2013 SPECIAL

WINTER

1. Snowman Contest

The annual Tahoe Donner Snowman Contest resulted in an abundance of creativity and snowmen and women (and other creatures) of all shapes and sizes.

2. Winter Carnival Children were ablaze with glowing neon lights at the annual Glow Stick Parade and Winter Carnival at Tahoe Donnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Downhill Ski Area in February.

3. Winter Trails Day Winter Trails Day was a huge success as Tahoe Donner partnered with REI for free snowshoeing, cross country skiing, demos, lessons and tours at the Cross Country Ski Center. This national event is a great way to introduce newcomers to the sport of cross country skiing and will take place again this year on Jan. 11.

4. NEW PISTEN BULLY Tahoe Donner skiers and snowboarders benefitted from two new Pisten Bully grooming machines last winter. Both state-of-the-art machines offer greater functionality and allow staff to groom more trails in less time on a daily basis.

5. 200-foot banana split Banana splits are irresistible, but this one from last March was downright incredible! Mark your calendar for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s split, scheduled for March 22, 2014.

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a year in review

SPRING

1. easter eggstravaganza With pleasant spring weather, Tahoe Donner hosted an “eggstraordinary” egg hunt on the grass at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub.

2. LODGE IMPROVEMENTS Construction was completed on the newly renovated deck and indoor/outdoor porch overlooking the beautiful golf course.

3. SPRING HIKING/BIKING The trails were in great shape this spring allowing for a full season of hiking and biking.

4. SUPERTOUR Tahoe Donner was a proud sponsor of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association 2013 SuperTour Finals.

5. new forestry building Tahoe Donner celebrated a new facility with a ribbon cutting April 18. The new location accommodates 8,841 square feet of new office and storage space.

6. tree planting Thanks to hardworking volunteers, approximately 240 sugar pine seedlings were planted at Tahoe Donner this spring as part of a collaboration between the Sugar Pine Foundation and Tahoe Donner Forestry department.

7. BEARS The bears in Tahoe Donner can be pretty frisky in the spring when they wake from their long winter slumber, and this year was no exception. Please be bear aware.

8. GOLF COURSE OPENING With conditions the best they’ve been in the last six years, the Tahoe Donner Golf Course was able to open in time for Memorial Day weekend for the 2013 golf season.

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| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

tahoedonner.com |

a year in review

SUMMER 1. TRUCKEE THURSDAYS This was our first summer participating in Truckee Thursdays and our new shuttle service was a huge hit.

2. FOURTH OF JULY PARADE Tahoe Donner took Best in Show at the Truckee Fourth of July Parade.

3. WATERPALOOZA Waterpalooza is such a wet, wild and wacky event that Tahoe Donner decided to put on two Waterpaloozas this summer.

4. DAY CAMPS Tahoe Donner Day camps, filled with activities, crafts and outdoor fun, make summertime at Tahoe Donner unforgettable.

5. t-9 GRILL The new and improved T-9 Grill features an expanded snack bar with a new hot grill and breakfast on weekends.

6. EUER VALLEY BBQ The second annual Euer Valley BBQ was a beautiful day complete with fun, food and entertainment celebrating members and Tahoe Donnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest and most historic property.

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7. Cardboard Regatta Teams constructed incredible handcrafted water vessels and battled it out at the Beach Club Marina for the Cardboard Regatta.

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a year in review

FALL

1. YURT COMPLETION Tahoe Donner unveiled a new 700-square-foot yurt at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area.

2. XC Trails Cleanup Volunteers worked hard to help get the Cross Country Ski Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trails in shape for winter at the Trails Cleanup Day.

3. Fall Hiking Fall foliage this year has been spectacular with a vibrant display of fall color at every turn out on the trails of Tahoe Donner.

4. Ski Patrol Training Care Flight made a visit during fall ski patrol training in October.

5. FIRST SNOWFALL Tahoe Donner welcomed its first snowfall in early October. Perhaps a good omen for a great winter season?

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

Bulletin Board

Truckee Community Christmas Invites the Community to Pitch In for Local Families in Need Once again, the Truckee Community Christmas nonprofit organization is opening its heart to help community members in need during the coming holiday season. Many generous locals will be donating their time to collect and distribute food, toys, and warm coats to help neighbors in the community. This remarkable program is expected to benefit approximately 215 families, 25 teenage moms and their babies, 60 low-income seniors and 60 homebound seniors. Truckee Community Christmas offers a range of ways that caring community members can step up to help: • Starting December 1, Northwoods Clubhouse will have a food collection barrel for non-perishable food items. You can also donate food in local grocery stores.*

and grandLocal Realtor Charlene Gamet and her daughter y last year. daughters, collecting donated items at Safewa CHRISTMAS PHOTO COURTESY OF TRUCKEE COMMUNITY

• New, unwrapped toys may be placed in collection bins at banks, real estate offices, schools, and businesses around town. • Warm, clean, gently used winter coats may be dropped off at Church of the Mountains in downtown Truckee, or at Sierra Bible Church on Brockway Road. • Donors can also provide necessities for our area seniors, whose wishes are often easy to fulfill and whose gratitude is always abundant.

In addition to donations of goods and services, Truckee Community Christmas needs help sorting, packing, and wrapping donated items at the Sierra Mountain Community Education Center on Donner Pass Road on Dec. 19-20. Mark your calendar to help with this effort. The food drive also needs assistance from volunteers. If you would prefer to simply write a check to help with the effort, tax-deductible contributions can be mailed to Truckee Community Christmas, P.O. Box 2955, Truckee, Calif. 96160 or log onto TruckeeCommunityChristmas.com to donate online or to find out more. For questions, call 530-587-2757.

WOODWARDTAHOE.COM 24

530 426-1114

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

* Food past its printed expiration date cannot be accepted, and health codes prevent the acceptance of homemade or baked goods.

Bulletin Board

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning By Dr. Greg Jellinek A CO (Carbon Monoxide) detector. CO detectors, like smoke detectors, have prominent test buttons. IMAGE COURTESY OF WIKIPEDIA COMMONS

Editor’s note: After losing a dear friend to carbon monoxide poisoning, Truckee physician and Tahoe Donner resident Dr. Greg Jellinek felt compelled to spread awareness about this toxic gas. A few weeks ago a friend of mine passed away. In the prime of his life, he had come to Truckee from the Bay Area to spend a few days with a friend. Tragically, both died of carbon monoxide poisoning after entering his home. In discussing this heartbreaking story with friends in the weeks since, I have heard many other incidents of people either sickened or killed by carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a clear, odorless gas that is the byproduct of incomplete combustion of most gas or liquid fuels, woodstoves, or charcoal BBQs. Poisoning occurs when this gas is not properly vented from the home (or automobile). Exposure and poisoning leads to headache, confusion, and dizziness; at high levels, carbon monoxide can kill a person in minutes. In California, the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act (Senate Bill 183) requires carbon monoxide alarms in all single- or multi-family homes. They are now a required inspection item on newly constructed homes or must be installed in pre-owned homes at the time of sale, but older homes such as mine—and my late friend’s—were built before these life-saving devices were available or mandated. I am writing this message as a public safety reminder. If you do not have functioning carbon monoxide detectors in your home, go purchase a few. They are available locally or online. We now have batterypowered units in every bedroom and three line-powered and battery backed-up units in the home, at least one on each level of the house. Don’t take a chance here as there is no second chance! Dr. Greg Jellinek, a physician of 40 years, relocated to Tahoe Donner in 2009. He owns his own practice, Tahoe Plastic Surgery, and is also a volunteer pilot for charity organizations as well as a member of the Doctors’ Ski Patrol at Alpine Meadows.

PREVENTION IS THE KEY TO AVOIDING CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING DO have your fuel-burning appliances—including oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves—inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every heating season. Make certain that the flues and chimneys are connected, in good condition, and not blocked. DO choose appliances that vent their fumes to the outside whenever possible, have them properly installed, and maintain them according to manufacturers’ instructions. DO read and follow all of the instructions that accompany any fuel-burning device. If you cannot avoid using an unvented gas or kerosene space heater, carefully follow the precautions that come with the device and keep doors to the rest of the house open. Crack a window to ensure enough air for ventilation and proper fuel-burning. DON’T idle the car in a garage—even if the garage door to the outside is open. Fumes can build up very quickly in the garage and living area of your home. DON’T use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time. DON’T ever use a charcoal grill indoors—even in a fireplace. DON’T sleep in any room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater. DON’T use any gasoline-powered engines (mowers, weed trimmers, snow blowers, chain saws, small engines or generators) in enclosed spaces. DON’T ignore symptoms, particularly if more than one person is feeling them. You could lose consciousness and die if you do nothing. More information can be found at calfire.ca.gov (search on “carbon monoxide”).

tahoedonner.com |

Bulletin Board

TRUCKEE RIVER DAY 2013 Once a year in October, the Truckee River Watershed Council (TRWC) sponsors a day of river, meadow, and wetland restoration. The event, which began in 1996 with just a few schoolchildren, has grown to encompass the entire community with a much broader spectrum of environmental undertakings. Projects include various activities such removing invasive plants, removing barbed wire, adding compost and mulch, and removing garbage from sensitive areas. Tahoe Donner’s forestry department participates each year by offering a tree-planting program right here in our back yard. This year, more than 450 community volunteers spent a beautiful fall day working on 14 projects throughout the Truckee River watershed on Sunday, Oct. 20. A group of 20 Tahoe Donner volunteers and five Tahoe Donner forestry employees met at the forestry building and proceeded from the office out into the field to plant 405 2-year-old Jeffrey pine trees. Under the direction of Tahoe Donner’s forestry staff, the tree-planting took place in some of Tahoe Donner’s fuel break reforestation areas near trail markers 25 and 26. The Tahoe Donner forestry crew made the planting easier by pre-drilling the holes where the seedlings were to be planted. After planting, many of the volunteers met up at the Granite Flat Campground for the River Fair, a family-

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

Volunteers came together to participate in Truckee River Day projects at Tahoe Donner on October 20. Shown here, a group plants 2-year-old Jeffrey pine trees. PHOTO OF SARAH COLLAMER/TAHOE DONNER

friendly event that included live music, local food from Red Truck, environmental education activities and art projects, and — the highlight of the day — a release of live trout into the Truckee River. Tahoe Donner has worked with the Truckee River Watershed Council since 1993 providing projects for volunteers. The event is an example of individuals and

organizations alike coming together in true community spirit to contribute time, money and support to a meaningful cause. Mark your calendars for next year’s Truckee River Day on Oct. 19, 2014. For more information, visit truckeeriverwc. org/events-a-programs/truckee-river-day

tahoedonner.com |

Bulletin Board

Below is the schedule of Architectural Standards Committee meetings for the first half of 2014, and the last date that a plan can be submitted to the Architectural Standards Office to be on the agenda for that meeting. As a reminder, if you want to make any changes to the outside of your house or to any other structure on your property, including adding a fence or changing your driveway, you must have a permit. We notify owners of adjacent properties of proposed projects so that they may have the opportunity to comment. For that reason, all submittals must be made at least three weeks prior to scheduled meetings so that we have enough time to send appropriate notification to your neighbors. Please remember that you must make an appointment for a plan submittal. We are not able to accommodate drop-ins, as there is up-front work to be done before you submit your plans. Please call 530-587-9407 to schedule an appointment. Meeting Dates: Deadlines for Submittal: Wednesday, Jan. 8 Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013 Wednesday, Jan. 29 Tuesday, Jan. 7 Wednesday, Feb. 12 Wednesday, Jan. 22 Wednesday, Feb. 26 Wednesday, Feb. 5 Wednesday, March 12 Wednesday, Feb. 19 Wednesday, March 26 Wednesday, March 5 Wednesday, April 9 Wednesday, March 19 Wednesday, April 23 Wednesday, April 2 Wednesday, May 7 Wednesday, April 16 Wednesday, May 21 Wednesday, April 30 Wednesday, June 4 Wednesday, May 14 Wednesday, June 18 Wednesday, May 28

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| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

As an early reminder, Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal Company will pick up Christmas trees in front of your house on January 14, 2014. All trees and branches must be cut into pieces that are a maximum of 3 feet long and all ornaments, lights, stands, garland, tinsel, flocking, and other material must be removed. If you miss that date, put the tree in your back yard and in the spring take advantage of the Forestry Department’s chipping program. If you have any questions about the program, please call the Forestry Department at 530-587-9432. If you are doing exterior insurance work on your home due to winter damage, please call our office and give us a description of the work to be done. Oftentimes the work is “like-for-like” and a quick call can help us update your file with these notes. If the work changes the exterior with material or color changes, please contact our office to see if a permit is required from Tahoe Donner. And please remind your contractor that all new exterior work requires permits from both Tahoe Donner and the Town of Truckee.

Homes On the Rise The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed the following plans in October 2013. Unit/Lot 07/275 10/483

Street Address 12830 Solvang Way 14299 Pathway Ave.

Square Ft. 3,301 2,833

Project H/G H/G

Summer operations survey

We want your feedback! With the arrival of cold temperatures and hopefully some snow, Tahoe Donner staff is reviewing and putting the final touches on an amazing summer season. One of the most important steps in that process is hearing from you! Log on to our home page and follow the links to the summer operations survey. It should take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, and your answers will influence operating and capital investment decisions for upcoming summers here at Tahoe Donner. We value your feedback and appreciate your input. Thank you!

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Regular Board Meeting Recap October 26, 2013

• Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0 • Emergency diesel generator – Downhill Ski Area • TDA Amenity ADA Reports • 2014 General Plan Committee Program • Tahoe Donner Foundation: Direction given Discussion took place regarding the feasibility of establishing a charitable arm of Tahoe Donner Association. Following discussion, the board requested that Director Gander write an article for a future issue of Tahoe Donner News with the aim of understanding the level of interest by the membership in creating charitable foundation. • Board Meeting Calendar: No action The board discussed the possibility of changing the November and December board meeting dates. • Equestrian Temporary Operations in 2014: Approved 5-0 The board discussed options for the temporary operation of Bikeworks, equestrian and trailhead access in 2014. Following discussion, the board approved the operation of Bikeworks at Northwoods Clubhouse, equestrian member boarding only, and no trailhead parking, on-street parking only in 2014. • Equestrian Campus: Direction given The board discussed long-term plans for the equestrian campus. Following discussion, the board directed staff to form a steering committee to further study options for this operation. • Director of Finance & Accounting Report: Approved 5-0 The board approved the preliminary September financials. • 2014 Annual Budget: Approved 5-0 The board approved the 2014 annual budget. This approval includes the following notable items: • An increase of the recreation fee from $225 to $245 beginning 5/1/2014. • A 2014 annual assessment amount of $1,600; an increase over 2013 of $95 or 6 percent. These summaries are intended for general information purposes only. The minutes are available at tahoedonner.com, upon request in the general manager’s office, or by calling 530-587-9431. A copy of the minutes and current agenda are posted outside the Member Services Office in Northwoods Clubhouse.

| Tahoe Donner News | November 2013

tahoedonner.com |

Africa

Dennis, Barbara, Matt and Nathan Curran enjoying a trip to Lake Victoria during our African Safari to Kenya and Tanzania.

englandBirdoswald Roman Fort along Hadrian’s

ar Long Susa n Wilson ne joying her 33rd UK , England while en ia Wall in Cumbr Dista nce Ra mble.

bahamas

ll Cay in the Eric Christensen scuba diving in Thunderba Caribbean, March 2013.

Hawaii

Granddaughter of homeowner, Cassi Goorin and former Tahoe Donner resident Kori King on the island of Kauai, Hawaii.

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

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2013

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See pg. 16

2014 ANNUAL BUDGET REPORT

DECEMBER 2013

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