Tahoe Donner News December 2014 by Tahoe Donner Association

2015 BUDGET REPORT: See insert inside

DECEMBER 2014

2015 BUDGET REPORT See insert after page 16.

After P16

HOLIDAY ROUNDUP Gather the family and friends and mark your calendar for some great Tahoe Donner and Truckee events

P04

NEW SKI PATROL Tahoe Donner announces a new ski patrol director at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area, along with his four-legged sidekick

P06

POWER TO THE CORE Tahoe Donner News launches a new wellness column. This month focuses on core strength

P07

DEPARTMENTS

TAKE NOTE

President’s Message New Tahoe Donner Giving Fund

Assessment Letter Annual Assessment information

Monthly Calendar Don’t miss our December events

Go Paperless! Opt in for paperless communication

Eat + Drink = Happy A look at holiday food traditions

Volunteer for TD Make a difference: join a committee

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

Ski Season Passes Purchase by Dec. 15 for additional perks

ASO News Happy holidays from the staff at ASO

Letters to Santa Santa’s elves gave us some letters to share

TD Board Meeting A recap of the Oct. 25 meeting

Gift ideas Stored value and stocking stuffer ideas

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

VOL. 15, NO. 12

WELCOME

DECEMBER 2014

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Jim Stang, jcstang@sbcglobal.net

Vice President

Tom Johns, btjtd@aol.com

Treasurer

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

Secretary

Ron Wulff, rwulff@sbcglobal.net

Director

Courtney Murrell, 2courtneymurrell@gmail.com

Board of Directors

board@tahoedonner.com

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

comdep@tahoedonner.com

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

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

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Greetings! When you read this, I hope that the weather is cooperating by giving us cool temperatures and snow. Some of you have inquired why the president’s message is not in every issue of the Tahoe Donner News. It was suggested that General Manager Robb Etnyre and I alternate writing the monthly message. Quite often we restate each other’s messages in our columns, so we thought this was a good idea. Weather permitting, December brings us a number of enjoyable events. See the Let’s Get Together section, starting on page 10, for details and mark your calendars. Our events are also listed online at tahoedonner.com. The New Alder Creek Adventure Center will open in early 2015 and will be the hub for our cross-country skiing. We will have temporary facilities at the beginning of the season to accommodate our guests. The construction of the building is moving forward. There are two critical path items that we needed to have in place before the snow flies: asphalt and the roof. As I write this, the asphalt is in and the remainder of the roof will follow shortly. I would like to make you all aware of the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Operating and Grants Committee that was approved by the board at the Sept. 27 board meeting. In 2008 the Tahoe Donner Charitable Fund, under the umbrella of the Truckee Community Foundation was established. That year, along with the director election materials, property owners were provided the option of making a separate tax deductible donation to the Tahoe Donner Charitable Fund for the benefit of the Truckee Tahoe region or to the Tahoe Donner Employee Scholarship Fund. Since the response from property owners was poor, it was discontinued. However, there were never any disbursements of the funds that were collected and the funds continued to accrue interest. The new Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Oper-

ating and Grants Committee will now oversee the funding and distribution of these funds, with future sources of funding coming from donations and fundraising events. Funds will be distributed in the Truckee area in four specific areas: • Health and human services • Environment, conservation, and animal welfare • Education and youth development • Arts and culture The Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation will administer the fund, but our committee will specify beneficiaries as guided by the Tahoe Donner board of directors. Since Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is affiliated with Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation and funds will go through their 501(c)(3) status, this gives Tahoe Donner members a simple, single avenue for supporting the greater Truckee community with fully tax-deductible contributions. It is my hope that as the fund grows, Tahoe Donner will be looked upon as a valuable partner in the Truckee community. In the past, I have contributed to the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation; in the future it will be to the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund. Finally, I would like to comment on the budget and the annual assessment for 2015. In the words of Queen Elizabeth (1992) and Mike Salmon, our director of finance and accounting, the 2013/2014 winter was “annus horribilis.” We depend on favorable timing of temperature and precipitation to meet members’ recreational expectations and to help pay for our amenities. If we aggregate amenity operations, we usually break even—or get very close to breaking even—with the positive results from Downhill Ski, Cross Country, and Snowplay offsetting unfavorable results in other areas. With the drought, we never received the December snow base at Downhill and Cross Country to carry us through the season. The drought caused us many problems (Continued on p. 5)

DEC. 14

December FOR ADDITIONAL DECEMBER EVENTS SEE

LET’S GET TOGETHER ON PAGE 10 Customer Appreciation Day Everyone gets to ski at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area for just $5. See page 12. DEC. 13-21

Cross Country “Bring a Friend” Week We’re offering a great deal for guests of season

HO! HO! HO! SANTA LOVES TO SKI TD!

passes all week long. See page 11. DEC. 19

PLEASE NOTE: SEVERAL AMENITIES AND RESTAURANTS WILL HAVE MODIFIED HOLIDAY HOURS ON DEC. 24, 25, 31, AND JAN. 1. CHECK OUR LET’S GET TOGETHER SECTION, STARTING ON PAGE 10, OR OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR CALL AHEAD TO CHECK BEFORE VISITING.

Night Tubing at Snowplay Conditions permitting, tube under the lights with us! See page 12. DEC. 31

ALL EVENTS ARE DEPENDENT ON CONDITIONS. PLEASE CHECK TAHOEDONNER.COM OR CALL 530-587-9400 FOR UPDATES. DEC. 31

DEC. 31

New Year’s Eve Sunset Snowhoe Tour

Torchlight Parade

New Year’s Eve Dinner and Celebration

Meet at Snowplay for a scenic sunset tour on

Come to Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area

Book your spot today! We’re offering a special

snowshoes. Advance reservations required.

early to secure a spot in the parade. This event

New Year’s Eve menu with a champagne toast

See page 12.

is free! See page 12.

at midnight. See page 15.

tahoedonner.com |

FEATURE

HOLIDAY EVENTS THIS DECEMBER Happy holidays! Want some good ol’ family fun? We’ve put together a roundup of what’s going on here in Tahoe Donner as well as in Truckee. Check out these fun holiday events and plan your holiday.

HOLIDAY EVENTS AT TAHOE DONNER DEC. 24 | We are open Christmas Eve at The Lodge Restaurant and Pub—leave the cooking to us! Come on in and bring the family for a delicious Christmas Eve dinner from 4-8 p.m. Our regular menu will be offered, in addition to wonderful specials. DEC. 25 | It’s Christmas and you can have BREAKFAST WITH SANTA! Join us at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area at 10 a.m. Christmas morning to have pancakes with Santa, followed by a half day of skiing or riding. At Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area,

Downhill Ski Area that includes a fun parade, music, and intermediate nighttime skiing for ages 10 and up who can ride unassisted. Registration starts at 4:30 p.m. Looking for something lighter? Join us for our NEW YEAR’S EVE SUNSET SNOWSHOE TOUR from 4-5:30 p.m. with Tahoe Donner Snowplay. 48 hours advance reservations are required. If snow isn’t your preference this New Year’s, a celebratory evening is also taking place at The Lodge Restaurant and Pub. With a special

HALF DAY RATES from 12-5 p.m. (an hour earlier than usual).

NEW YEAR’S EVE MENU, guests can enjoy dinner from 4-10 p.m. with a champagne toast to follow at midnight. Reservations are required and are held with a credit card. We sell out every year, so don’t delay!

DEC. 31 | New Year’s Eve at Tahoe Donner: there are so many choices this year! Where do we begin? Kick off the New Year by joining us

HOLIDAY EVENTS IN TRUCKEE

for our NEW YEAR’S EVE TORCHLIGHT

DEC. 1-18 | Throughout December, you and your family can give one of the greatest gifts—

families can also SKI OR SNOWSHOE AT

PARADE, a family-friendly event at our

Over 25 Years Experience

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

the gift of helping others. TRUCKEE COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS, an all-volunteer, non-profit organization helping our community, will be hosting multiple charity drives this December for food, toys, coats and even senior programs. Consider making a donation or volunteering at one of these wonderful drives by visiting truckeecommunitychristmas.com/our_programs to get started. DEC. 6 | You are invited to Sierra College for their HOMEMADE SIERRA HOLIDAY FINE ART AND CRAFT SALE from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at 11001 College Trail. All merchandise is homemade and all purchases help benefit the Sierra College Tahoe Truckee Art Club. Merchandise makes great holiday gifts, too! Visit sierracollege.edu/events/upcoming/2014/12/tt-art.php for more info. *All listed events subject to change and are conditions permitting.

(Continued from p. 2) concerning finances and staffing, as it did for the entire region. The 2015 operating budget reflects these uncertainties. As of this writing, we have recovered financially in 2014 because of extensive austerity measures undertaken by the management with board oversight across the entire association, such as mandatory employee furloughs, reduced common area defensible space programs, expense reductions, service level modifications and payroll reductions. With these measures, along with excellent visitations and revenue generation this summer, we have recovered the entire first quarter’s $855,000 deficit. The Lodge Restaurant & Pub delivered great results and golf course losses were better than budget. We still have to adequately fund our Replacement Reserve and Development Funds to protect our assets and property values. Lastly, we are also dealing with a number of future cost increases that are mostly beyond our control, such as workers’ compensation, health insurance, and the California minimum wage increase. Pray for snow.

Dickson Corporate Logos Dickson Realty Logo

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JIM STANG | BOARD PRESIDENT

TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS

Unacceptable Uses of Dickson Realty Logo

Member Communications (area code 530) Member Services

587-9400

info@tahoedonner.com

General Manager

587-9431

gm@tahoedonner.com

White Logo: Can be used background o ground

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

Dickson Corporate Logos Dickson Realty Logo

Forestry 587-9432 forestry@tahoedonner.com Golf Course

587-9443

golf@tahoedonner.com

The Lodge

587-9455

lodge@tahoedonner.com

Pizza On The Hill

582-9669

pizza@tahoedonner.com

Recreation Info Hut

587-9413

troutcreek@tahoedonner.com

Tennis Center

587-9474

tennis@tahoedonner.com

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

587-9437

Dickson Realty Tagline

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troutcreek@tahoedonner.com

Tahoe Donner Association Committee Chairs

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Architectural Standards, Jason Wooley aso@tahoedonner.com Covenants, Al Noyes

alandjosi@gmail.com

Elections, John Sorensen

jasoren10@gmail.com

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, Robin Reese

rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Friends of TD Trails, B.R. Levine

tdtrails@gmail.com

Rowing Club, Dot Mace

dotmace@me.com

Senior Alpine Ski, Dave Wallace

dwallace0717@gmail.com

Tennis, John McGregor

jmpj1964@gmail.com.

9-Holers, Marianne Bowers

mariannebowers@hotmail.com

Men’s Golf, Bob Moore

bob4moore@aol.com

Women’s Golf, Fran Macomber

franmacomber@aol.com

Hiking Club, Robin Reese

rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Quilt Club, Linda Brush

sewlinda@aol.com

Junior Golf Club, Jean Lai

jslai@comcast.net

TD 4-Wheelers Club, Bill Ratcliff

td4wheelers@gmail.com

Equestrian Club, Susan Terrell

terrellsf@earthlink.net

Dinny Evans Realtor®

DRE #01126819

Direct

530.414.1420

If you can dream it up, Dickson Realty Tagline you can team it up.

White Logo: Can be used on Corporate Blue Corporate Blue background orLogo: dark photo back- Homes The new team at High Altitude Can be used on white or light photo ground isbackground wishing you all of the best for this Corporate Blue Logo

holiday season! We hope you are dreaming big for the new year, I know that we are! Dreams are what it’s all about and we are ready to assist you in anyway we can to realize yours.

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Unlike the weather, one thing you can rely on from High Altitude Homes is expertise and service. Moving into 2015 we are dreaming of lots or precipitation and new relationships and lots of fun!

Dinny, Kaili and Megan

- Richie Norton

Corporate Blue Logo: Can be used on white or light photo background Corporate Blue Logo

White Logo: dinny@highaltitudehomes.com Can be used on Corporate Blue WEBSITE background or dark photo back-

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tahoedonner.com |

FEATURE

TAHOE DONNER HIRES TED TANK AS SKI PATROL DIRECTOR BY ASHLEY QUADROS Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area welcomes Ted Tank as the new ski patrol director. With over 25 winters as a professional ski patroller, including 15 years in ski patrol management at Homewood Mountain Resort, Tank brings immense knowledge and expertise to the Tahoe Donner team. In addition to gaining an expert patroller, Tahoe Donner also greets their newest patrol dog, Tucker. Tucker is a 10-year-old golden retriever who loves people and snow. He also helps on patrols and assists in educating the public with live safety demonstrations. “Safety should be everyone’s goal at a ski area,” said Tank. “Guests and staff should always ski/ride in control and to their abilities. I look forward to creating the safest skiing and riding environment possible at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area.” With 15 trails, five lifts and 120 acres of snow to maintain while ensuring guests’ safety, Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area Manager, Robert McClendon, knows Tank will be an asset. “He brings a proactive prospective to mountain safety and guest services,” said McClendon. “We want to teach young and beginner mountain enthusiasts how to ski and ride safely on the mountain, and ski patrol helps us convey this to our guests. We are happy to welcome Ted to our team.” Tank grew up in Ann Arbor, Mich. and Portland, OR. before realizing the TahoeTruckee area would someday be the place he called home. “I love long, cold, snowy winters,” said Tank, an avid skier since the age of 4. “I came to Tahoe Donner for the chance to run another ski patrol team and look forward to meeting all sorts of new people this season.” When you visit Tahoe Donner Downhill, be sure to say hello to Tank and Tucker!

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

ABOVE: Ted Tank and Tucker pose for a picture right after the first snowfall in early November. LEFT: Tucker tested the snow levels after Halloween and determined more snow was needed.

BULLETIN BOARD

POWER TO THE CORE! BY KARI CHALSTROM, CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER, FITNESS INSTRUCTOR AND NUTRITION CONSULTANT

with a variety of classes and trainers on site. For most of us, recreation and the outdoors are the reasons we live in or visit this region, and as the weather turns, we turn our attention to getting our equipment dusted off and tuned up. This is a perfect reminder that it is imperative to tune up our bodies as well as our recreational gear of choice. Most people consider doing a few crunches or Tennis Center, planks sufficient enough new TRX fitness classes at the Last summer, we introduced classes at TRX new the of one Try ors. indo them to train the core. But what ging brin e and now we’r out! this winter. It’s a great core work Trout Creek Recreation Center exactly are our core muscles? They are the muscles Tahoe Donner News is pleased to present a that support the pelvis and the spine. A new monthly column focusing on health, fitness, strong and stable core has the ability to brace, and wellness. The articles will contain informacontract, flex, and engage the primary, large tion and helpful tools for healthier living. Enjoy! group muscles of the lower, middle and upper spine. This also includes the pelvis. With winter upon us, is it important to The lower core is comprised of the muscles start building your “core” awareness for your that encompass and support the pelvis, includfavorite winter sport and the demands that ing the glutes, deep lower abdominals, hip snow can have on your body. For years, profesflexors (psaos, high quads) and hip extensors sional athletes have discovered the benefits of (high hamstrings where they attach just below proper core training and mindfulness in their the glutes). The lower core is integral in formsport. Fortunately, right here at Trout Creek ing and creating stability of the lower core. Recreation Center, we have many ways to help Think of your lower core like the base of a tree build your strength, awareness, flexibility, and trunk. If it is weak, the branches extending most importantly, stability of the core muscles from that trunk are likely to be weaker, and

overcompensation here can lead to injuries. Your legs and arms are branches extending from your trunk. And if your trunk—or core—is not stable, then injuries and failure to perform adequately are in your future. The middle and upper core: The muscles of the mid-spine and shoulder girdle (the area around the shoulder blades/scapula) are critical in helping to transfer power and strength from your lower to upper body and vice versa. For example, when shoveling snow, think of driving from the hips—lower core—when digging into the snow, and then drawing your shoulder blades down and back as you scoop the shovel over and out. With this movement, make sure to brace your abs, lower and middle muscles of your back. You’ll find the work more efficient and rewarding when you apply proper form. How can you strengthen and access your core? Come try one of the many classes offered at Trout Creek or schedule a session with a trainer. We have a multitude of fitness classes, such as yoga, TRX, spinning, HIIT, sculpting, Zumba and more. When done with the mindset of “tuning in to your core,” you’re preparing yourself for all the joys of winter sports, as well as the chores that come living in this beautiful area, like snow shoveling! With proper core awareness comes better balance. Balance is so important—regardless of your age—whether you are out hitting the slopes or walking on an icy path. Your gear is tuned and ready… are you?

Living and working in Tahoe Donner since 1990

DAVID WRIGHT, Realtor

TEXT, EMAIL or CALL ME

There are approximately 68 homes, 11condos and 42 lots on the market in Tahoe Donner. Contact me for details on any of them, or if you would like to know where your property fits into this market. No obligation, no scripted responses, Straightforward & courteous. The average Tahoe Donner home sale price YTD is up over 61K from YTD in 2013. 2013 average Tahoe Donner home sale prices were up over 73K above 2012 average sold prices.

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

tahoedonner.com |

BULLETIN BOARD

EAT + DRINK = HAPPY BY MICHAEL PETERS, DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

“CHESTNUTS ROASTING ON AN OPEN FIRE” Though it seems like something you would associate with a Dickens novel, roasted chestnuts have been a popular snack for centuries. Seasonal during the fall and winter, they weren’t specifically associated with Christmas until the release of “The Christmas Song,” made popular by Nat Cole in 1946. It all stemmed from a single lyric of the songwriter Wells, based on his memories of Christmas in New York. Another popular Christmas Carol, Here We Come A-Wassailing, written circa 1850, refers to wassailing, or singing carols from door to door wishing good health. Bands of beggars and orphans used to dance their way through the snowy streets of England, offering to sing good cheer and to tell of good fortune if the householder would give them a drink from his wassail bowl or a penny. The wassail bowl itself was a hearty combination of hot ale or beer, apples, spices and mead, just alcoholic enough to warm tingling toes and fingers of the singers.

Holiday Cheer One of my favorite holiday beverages is eggnog, or “Snowman Milk,” as my 7-year-old has called it for many years. Eggnog may have originated in England; or it may have simply developed from posset, a medieval European beverage made with hot milk. The “nog” part of its name may stem from the word noggin, an English term for a small, carved wooden mug used to serve alcohol. It was also called an Egg Flip; from the practice of “flipping”-or rapidly pouring- the mixture between two pitchers to mix it. The drink was popular mainly among the aristocracy. Those who could get milk and eggs mixed it with brandy, Madeira or sherry. The drink is described in the book, Cold Comfort Farm, as a “Hell’s Angel.” (I think I like “Snowman Milk” better.) The drink crossed the Atlantic to the English colonies during the 18th century and since brandy and wine were heavily taxed, rum from the Caribbean was a cheaper substitute. When the supply of rum to the United States was reduced as a consequence of the American Revolutionary War, domestic whiskey, and eventually bourbon was used as a substitute.

‘Tis the Season... For Sweets “I had but one penny in the world, thou should’st have it to buy gingerbread.”- William Shakespeare, Love’s Labor’s Lost Gingerbread houses, ornaments, and men march from ovens everywhere around the holiday season. The first gingerbread man is credited to Queen Elizabeth I, who presented visiting dignitaries with one baked in their own likeness. The gingerbread house became popular in Germany after the Brothers Grimm published their fairy tale Hansel and Gretel in the 19th century. Early German settlers brought the

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

gingerbread house tradition to America. I say, if you have a house full of children, gingerbread ornaments may be a great idea because if they are eaten off the tree, there will be less to take down after the holiday. “Save me some Figgy Pudding…” Stir-Up Sunday is the day the Christmas pudding is made, five weeks before Christmas on the last Sunday before the Christian season of Advent. The delicious aromas which float through the house as the pudding steams on the stove are the start of the festivities. The customs surrounding making pudding brings the whole family together as each takes a turn to stir the mixture, make a wish and add coins; finding them on Christmas day is said to bring wealth, health and happiness. Another sweet treat, the Bûche de Noël, is a log-shaped cake meant to evoke the Yule log that once burned in European hearths throughout Christmas. Made of layered or rolled sponge cake filled with mousse or buttercream, it is often decorated with marzipan or holly leaves. And we can’t leave out Fruitcake, even though we all want to. The heavily fruit-laden, sometimes boozy fruitcake we associate with Christmas today has its roots in the Middle Ages. Dried fruits and sugar were expensive imports, so using them in large quantity was strictly a special-occasion endeavor (hence fruitcake as a traditional wedding cake option). Plus, in the days of hardto-regulate wood-burning ovens, successful cake baking was a tricky undertaking. So this was a sturdier option. How did we get candy canes? Sugar, once a precious and expensive commodity, was typically reserved for holidays like Christmas. According to folklore, the shepherd’s crookshaped candy cane originated around 1670, the invention of a German choirmaster as an enticement to keep young singers quiet during services. The red or colored stripes weren’t added until after 1900, likely to denote peppermint or wintergreen flavors. If you want them to stay on the tree till Christmas Day, I recommend hanging them on the tree four feet or above. Cozy up to the fire, put on your favorite slippers and a mix of holiday tunes and enjoy the company of friends and family. Tahoe Donner wishes you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season.

Insider fact: Johnny Carson joked, “There really is only one fruitcake in the world, passed from family to family.” In fact, if a fruitcake contains alcohol, it could remain edible for many years. Believe it or not, a fruitcake baked in 1878 is kept as an heirloom by a Michigan family; in 2003 it was actually sampled by Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. No thanks, pass the sugar plums instead!

ARE YOU TRUE BLUE?

SHOW IT. BUY A TAHOE LICENSE PLATE & SKI FOR FREE. Receive two free lift tickets to the resort of your choice when you purchase a CA or NV Tahoe license plate. Over 96% of the funds from Tahoe license plate fees support hiking and biking trails, and water quality and conservation projects at Lake Tahoe. For details on this free ticket offer visit: www.tahoeplates.com. jeremy jones, pro snowboarder & big mountain freerider

A simple way to make Tahoe better.

tahoedonner.com |

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| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014 R ON OE D TA H

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include information about the points of interest along the routes. Note:

skiing. It’s 30 minutes of tips, tricks and feedback from some of our best

Crabtree Canyon and Showdown trails, which are not on Tahoe Don-

instructors. Tune up your technique this winter to make your skiing

ner property, will not be accessible for the 2014-2015 winter season as

even more fun and efficient. Just $20 per session.

a result of the private landowner’s decision to not allow access to the property any longer. Consider signing up for one of our snowshoe tours on Friday, Jan. 2, Sunday, Jan. 11, Sunday, Feb. 8 and Sunday, March 8 to enhance your experience with guides who will give you tips on your technique and inform you on the local flora and fauna. Private tours are also available every Sunday morning.

EARLY SEASON CROSS COUNTRY EVENTS Season Passholder “Bring a Friend Week” All day long, season passholders may bring as many guests as they like to ski at discounted rates. Passholder must be present. DATES: DEC. 13-21 (CONDITIONS PERMITTING) PRICE: $15 FOR PASS; $10 FOR RENTALS

Lactate Threshold Testing – Dec. 13* This popular test is back again this year! From 9-11 a.m., take our Cross Country Ski Area’s on-snow test to determine the effectiveness of your training and fitness plans with sports performance expert, Dr. Andy Pasternak. Analysis of results will be provided Sunday, Dec. 14 (or by phone). Reservations required 48 hours in advance. PRICE: $225

*Note: in the event of insufficient snow, a makeup date is tentatively scheduled for Jan. 11 from 9-11 a.m. with group analysis the same day

December/January: Novice Kick and Glide - Mondays at 12 p.m. Suitable for those who can ski green trails classic style. Advanced Skating Skills - Wednesdays at 9 a.m. Suitable for skaters who ski blue and black trails. Novice Skaters - Fridays at 9 a.m. Suitable for those who can ski green trails. Weekend Improver Clinics – Check out our clinics page on our website to find the clinics that will fit your skiing needs. Topics include skating uphill; gears for different terrain; improving efficiency; improving downhill control; waxing and ski care; plus special guest instructors, including Olympians and national level racers.

Biathlon Clinics: Join our biathlon clinics to learn what it takes to be a biathlete in the Winter Olympics! Learn how to shoot our laser biathlon rifles and how to still hit the targets with an elevated heart rate after skiing or snowshoeing. Spaces are limited. Sign up at ShopTD. DATES: SATURDAY, DEC. 20, SUNDAY, JAN. 11, SATURDAY, JAN. 31, SATURDAY, FEB. 28, SUNDAY, MARCH 15 TIME: 10 A.M. ADULTS (13 YEARS AND OLDER); 11:30 A.M. CHILDREN (7-12 YEAR OLDS)

from 3-4 p.m. Spaces are limited. Sign up at ShopTD.

Christmas at Tahoe Donner Cross Country – Dec. 25 We will open at noon with half day rates available from 12-5 p.m.

Equipment Demo Day – Jan. 3 and Jan. 10 Want to try the best and greatest equipment? From 11 a.m.-3 p.m., reps will have their latest and greatest equipment to demo including equipment by Fischer, Swix, Salomon, Madshus, Rossignol and others. Free with trail pass.

Learn to Ski Weeks – Jan. 5-9, Jan. 12-16 Grab a friend and come learn to ski. During these periods, two participants can learn to ski for the price of one! Price includes a one-hour private lesson with all-day trail pass and rentals for two people. Call in advance to reserve your spaces. PRICE: $81 FOR TWO PEOPLE

Winter Trails Day – Jan. 10 It’s a national celebration of winter fun! This event offers those new to snowsports the chance to try cross country skiing and snowshoeing for FREE from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Advance registration is required with REI Sacramento. Sign up at rei.com/sacramento.

CLINICS AND PROGRAMS Midweek Technique Tune Up – A great opportunity to improve your

FRIENDLY REMINDERS Please respect the ski area boundaries. We would like to remind everyone that the cross country ski and snowshoe trail system, including Euer Valley, is a fee use area in winter. Trail fees are required to access this area once the Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area opens for the season. Tahoe Donner is known locally and nationally for its great skiing conditions and spends thousands of dollars each year to groom and maintain these winter trails. Walking—unless on snowshoes—and biking is prohibited; tracks created by walking and biking can significantly damage the skiing surface and make conditions unsafe for skiers. Members, guests and the public can access our beautiful terrain in the winter by purchasing a trail pass or a season pass. Enjoy winter access to the trails by skis or snowshoes, which are available for rent at the Cross Country Ski Area if you do not have your own. The Cross Country Ski Area is open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. once conditions allow. Tahoe Donner’s Glacier Way Trailhead, off Skislope Way, is plowed in the winter to provide free access to members and guests and the trail is often packed by snowshoers. The Legacy Trail near the Regional Park in Truckee is also a great place to walk in the winter, and Donner Lake State Park also offers winter access for hikers (parking fee required). tahoedonner.com |

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for kids and adults at a nominal fee of $7.50 for two hours during operating hours on Snowplay property. Enjoy hot cocoa and warm up by the fire pits after a day of fun.

be provided in the bar area prior to the parade. This event is free! Signups are from 4:30-5:45 p.m. with chair loading starting at 6:15 p.m.

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at 1:30 p.m.

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| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

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early to secure a spot in the parade. There will be a DJ and snacks will

ing equipment. In addition tubing fun, snowshoe rentals are available

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Enjoy a pizza from Pizza on the Hill while showing off your smarts in a fun and competitive way every Thursday night from 6:30-8 p.m. Winners at Trivia Night will take prizes or gift certificates. Trivia Night is subject to cancellation by 7:15 p.m. for insufficient attendance.

On Christmas Day, Pizza on the Hill will be closed, so come back the

saw an increase in our Century Club of 12 percent and a whopping 30

following week for Trivia Night.

percent increase in our Mega Centurions who visited Trout Creek more than 150 times! And of course, we would like to congratulate our most

Friday Family Movie Night FREE for the whole family! Every Friday night at 6:30 p.m., grab the kids, order some pizza from Pizza on the Hill and sit back and get cozy at the Northwoods Clubhouse for our featured film. Families will enjoy classic or new movies rated G and PG. To find out what we’ll be playing in advance, call Member Services at 530-587-9400 for more details.

Kids Night Out This is an evening designed for your children’s enjoyment—a chance for them to learn and play and a chance for you to sit back and relax or

amazing top challengers in 2014 who, as always, have set the bar high…

2014 Supreme Centurion

2014 Fitness Centurion

Donald Leipham

Joanne Haddy

(258 visits)

(185 Fitness Classes attended)

2014 Mega Centurions (150+ visits) Donald Leipham

Joanne Haddy

Paul Vukelich

Allyn Davis

Robert Kautz

Zoya Barre

Marcy Thompson

Carla McClure

Carol Glichenhouse

Leslie Hilton

Joe Silvestri

Jennifer Couch

John Hutchinson

Geoff Brandenburg

Doug W. Barre

ShopTD (tahoedonner.com/shop) or by calling 530-587-9437.

Mavis Bowes

John Doran

Calvin Brush

D DATES: I C E S6; SATURDAY, DEC. 20 H O EFRIDAY, VDEC.

Terry Hilton

Emily Jones

Pixie Baber

Carolina H. De la Torre

Helen Wolfe

James Concannon

William Mcginnis

Ronald Modafferi

Eniko Kuch

David Toponce

Janice Brittain

Mike Wyreman

Christopher Kruss

Elizabeth Moore

Criss Van Wey

enjoy a night out. Kids ages 4-9 will enjoy games, dinner, milk and cookies, arts and crafts, a movie and even a bedtime story at the Northwoods Clubhouse on the first Friday and third Saturday of every month. Space is limited; please make reservations 24 hours in advance online at

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PRICE: P$20 PER CHILD; ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED & INFO EL

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Have you taken a fitness class lately? Check out our December cal-

endar of classes online at tahoedonner.com/fitness. We’ve added some new classes designed for winter sports fitness and even have some new offerings, such as TRX. One of our trainers, Kari Chalstrom, will be NNE

E D O with contributing to the Tahoe Donner News new fitness and wellness I OaN AHO

educated about health, wellness and fitness. If you were a part of the tury Club Challenge. If you would like to take part in the 2015 challenge and receive monthly emails regarding our Century Club programs, please send your name, email address, phone number and t-shirt size to troutcreek@tahoedonner.com. Trout Creek will honor your commitment by celebrating your success at our Century Club Celebration in October 2015, and of course, on our Century Club Wall of Fame.

we will be offering program opportunities to keep you motivated and

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The challenge is on again for 2015 starting Jan. 1. Throughout 2015,

2014 Century Club, you will automatically be entered into the 2015 Cen-

B C LU H C BEA ARINA M

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DS O OHours W Holiday H T O L the holidays upon us, Trout Creek Recreation Center will have N O R P OWith EV RAMS &

reduced hours of operation on the following days:

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Christmas Eve (Wednesday, Dec. 24): 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. Christmas Day (Thursday, Dec. 25): 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. New Year’s Eve (Wednesday, Dec. 31): 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. New Year’s Day (Thursday, Jan. 1st): 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

2015 Century Club Challenge Wow! Our Century Club is not only an amazing group of people, but worthy of congratulations in their hard work and dedication to personal fitness. If you didn’t take part in our 2014 Century Club Challenge then we are challenging you to join us in 2015 as the Century Club begins its third year of recognizing our regular members for their loyalty to Trout Creek and dedication to living an active lifestyle. The Century Club Wall of Fame has been updated with our new and returning Century Club inductees who visited Trout Creek 100 times before Sept. 30. We tahoedonner.com |

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Trail to the Buck Lake Trail. This was a very challenging trail that required a lot of skill, driving on the highest rocks, allowing the best clearance to make it through. After enjoying our lunch on a bluff overlooking Buck Lake, we continued on to the top of Ellis Peak. A short hike from where we parked took us up to the top of the peak. A storm was blowing in and the winds must have been 40 to 50 mph as we struggled to the top. But it was worth it when we got there; we had an amazing view of Desolation Wilderness.

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

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DINING OPTIONS The Lodge Restaurant & Pub The Lodge Restaurant and Pub is open daily from 5-9 p.m. to enjoy artisan-crafted cuisine and spirits, but will be closed on Dec. 2, 4, 9,

Year, we’re hosting a celebratory evening.

so the last No Corkage evening for Decem-

With a special New Year’s Eve menu, guests

ber will be Tuesday, Dec. 16; the promotion

can enjoy dinner from 4-10 p.m. with a cham-

returns to its regular schedule on Jan. 6.

pagne toast to follow at midnight. Reservations are required and are held with a credit

and 13 for holiday parties, and will also be

card. We sell out every year, so don’t delay!

closed Christmas Day. Pizza on the Hill will be

Happy Hour*

open Dec. 4, 9 and 13 to accommodate diners while The Lodge is closed. During the period of Dec. 26-Jan. 3, the Pub will open early at 4 p.m., serving appetizers, soups and salads. For more information, call 530-587-9455 or visit tahoedonner.com/the-lodge.

Christmas Eve Dinner We are open Christmas Eve to welcome you and your family in for a delicious Christmas dinner from 4-8 p.m. Our regular menu will be offered, in addition to wonderful specials.

New Year’s Eve Celebration Book your spot today! To kick off the New

Pizza on the Hill Pizza on the Hill is open Thursday-Monday for dinner from 5-8:30 p.m. and will be closed Christmas Day. On Tuesday, Dec. 9, Pizza on the Hill will be open to accommodate guests for dinner as The Lodge Restaurant and Pub will be closed for a private party. For more information, please call 530-582-9669, or visit us online at tahoedonner.com/pizza-on-thehill to see our menu.

Brat and Beer Special Our bratwursts were such a hit in November, we “brat” them back again for December. Through Dec. 22, you can enjoy a juicy bratwurst with fries paired with any draft beer for just $8.

Thursday Night Trivia Are you good at trivia? Check out our Trivia Nights at Pizza on the Hill! See page 12 for more info.

From 5-6:30 p.m. daily, enjoy drink specials

WildER Wednesdays* Happy Hour specials wildly last all night long in the entire restaurant and Pub! Enjoy 25 percent off shared plates, soups and salads and drink specials. Offer valid during non-holiday

and 25 percent off shared plates, soups and

periods (not valid Dec. 24 or Dec. 31). WildER

salads in the Pub. Not valid Sunday, Dec. 21

Wednesdays will return Jan. 7.

through Jan. 3 or with any other promotion or coupon. Happy Hour returns Jan. 4.

No Corkage Tuesdays*

Three-Course Meal Deal* Limited time remains to take advantage of one of our favorite deals. Enjoy a delicious

Bring in a special bottle of wine from home

“chef’s choice” three-course meal and glass

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

of house wine for only $25, Sunday through

corkage fee on Tuesdays. With the restaurant

Thursday until Dec. 18.

closed for holiday parties on Tuesday, Dec. 2 and Dec. 9, this offer has been extended to include Wednesday, Dec. 3 and Dec. 10. The promotion is not valid during holiday periods,

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

Friday Family Movie Night Like free entertainment for the whole family? Enjoy a movie on our big screen. See page 13 for more details.

Happy Hour* You’ll feel extra happy with this offer! Quench your thirst by enjoying $3 Coors Light drafts, $4 seasonal draft beers and $4 house cabernet or chardonnay by the glass; plus, enjoy half-price wings and chili fries for just $4. Offered from 5-6 p.m., Thursday-Monday.

Sunday Half-Price Pizza Night* What’s better than cheese or pepperoni pizza? Getting it for half-price! Every Sunday grab a cheese or pepperoni pizza and save some major dough. Half-price offer valid for to-go takeout or dining in; limit six pizzas. *Hour Hour and Sunday Half-Price Pizza Night will not be valid Dec. 18, 2014-Jan. 4, 2015. Additionally, all offers are not valid with any other promotion or coupon.

tahoedonner.com |

rs Last mont h, all Taho e Donn er home owne sasses al annu their shou ld have received below ment invoi ces in the mail. The lette r renot did you If ce. invoi the acco mpan ied ara ceive your invoi ce, pleas e cont act Dagm onhoed g@ta drun or 417 587-9 530at Rung

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2015 Annual Assessment $1,800 per Pro

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in The annu al budg et repo rt, inclu ded has a this issue starting on the next page , sasses al annu the of n deta iled brea kdow budment , as well as the board-ap proved ents to get for 2015 . Pleas e take a few mom med review this docu ment and to stay infor g your on impo rtant infor matio n conc ernin home owne rs asso ciatio n. e at All infor matio n may be viewed onlin ials. nanc om/fi ner.c edon taho

REPLACEMENT RESERVE FUND

OPERATING FUND

$526

$994

29% 55% DEVELOPMENT FUND

$250

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NEW MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT FUND

$30

November 15, 2014 Dear Tahoe Donner Association Owners,

to develop with Management and the Finance Committee ed work ctors Dire of d Boar the ths, mon few Over the last ce Committee apapproved on October 25, 2014, following Finan the 2015 Annual Budget. The Budget was Board discussed where many financial and economic factors were proval recommendation and several open meetings ment of our 2015 h directly impacts each owner, was the establish whic ess, proc this of lt resu end The zed. analy and 2015 assessof $200 over 2014. This mailing contains your ase incre an erty, prop per 0 $180 at nt ssme Annual Asse rding payment of to the enclosed invoice for important details rega ment invoice, due January 1, 2015. Please refer your Assessment. Fund portions. of an Operating Fund portion and three Capital As illustrated above, the Assessment consists us our amenities, ating cost of running our Association and provides The Operating Fund covers the annual net oper $16 million, with opn. The Operating Fund revenue requirement is customer services, and association administratio 2015 the operating ssment revenue funding the remaining 41 %. For asse al annu and 59% ing fund nues reve ng erati arily by regula$152 or 18% to $994. This increase is driven prim fund assessment amount has been increased by ating revenue oper in ction ance ($53) and a drought induced redu tory cost increases in workers compensation insur without ases increased $15 to $260 in order to cover cost incre budget ($98). The 2015/2016 Recreation Fee has for operations ase ($12.67 per month) in assessment funding incre $152 A Line: m Botto s. level ice serv cting impa rol efforts s of service with a continued focus on cost cont level ng taini main while s, sure pres cost s erou driven by num and increased participation by our Members. hase new assets to our current assets (replacement reserve), purc tain main to on ciati asso the allow s Fund tal Capi infrastructure provide capital to expand and/or replace aging and nt), pme equi and ry hine mac (new s need meet new ciation and the value ultimately impacts the overall value of our Asso (development). Failure to fund this component the contribution iary responsibility in mind, the Board increased of each individual ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property. With this fiduc ct our aging investthe Association financially healthy and to prote keep to 2015 for Fund rve Rese ent acem Repl to per property ased $48 ($4.00 per month) and amounts to $806 ment. Bottom Line: Capital Funds portion incre (45% of the Assessment). ership reflected ties, we trust you see the continued value of own As you enjoy the numerous recreational opportuni of our annual of the Association is reflected in the complexity in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Assessment. The diversity of Tahoe Donissue 2014 r mbe et Report will be provided in the Dece budget. The comprehensive 2015 Annual Budg at www. on mati infor You may view this report and other financial ner News, our official communication medium. tahoedonner.com. Sincerely, Stephen M. Miller Treasurer

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

Michael R. Salmon Director of Finance and Accounting

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tahoedonner.com |

CHRISTMAS STAR ON THE RISE IN TAHOE DONNER BY ASHLEY QUADROS HOLIDAY SONGS BY TAHOE DONNER SONGWRITER ARE BEING HEARD AROUND THE WORLD THIS DECEMBER

It’s common to hear Christmas songs this time of year, but have you ever wondered about the person or people behind the song? Long term Tahoe Donner resident, Gordon Simons, is a holiday music writer and producer, receiving airplay on an international level. In addition to having his music featured on television and radio stations, one of his songs, “Monster Halloween Rap,” was even played on the most popular soap opera, “The Young and the Restless.” Featuring local talent, including children, in both his songs and music videos, Simons is part of the Simons & Cameron band and the Lane Gordon Music Company, headed by himself and bandmate, Lane Cameron, a duo that teamed up over 10 years ago to produce holiday music and offer music writing services to radio stations and local businesses. Today their holiday music has expanded into nearly 40 songs and includes selections for Christmas, Halloween, Independence Day and Veterans Day, with even a special tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. “Along with Lane, I write and produce our original music, organize recording sessions, assemble players… and come up with most of our crazy ideas,” said Simons. One of their zaniest creations involved merging the joys of Christmas with the terrors of Halloween into a twisted but fun Christmas song called, “A Very Scary Merry Christmas.” “Monsters from Transylvania try to lure Santa to their creepy castle so they can eat his tasty reindeer,” explained Simons. “Boris, Igor, and Drabulin think Rudolph will taste like chicken.” The catchy tune and fun beat has been well-received in the holiday music industry, but their most popular song and Simons’ personal favorite is “Christmas is for Kids.” “It’s one of our best works,” said Simons. “[Former Broadway singer] Gary Douglas did the amazing vocals, along with the Brookfield Children’s Choir from Reno. [Musician] Billy Slais played a sensational sax as usual, and the song is being played around the world, including the biggest online Christmas-themed radio station: Happy Christmas Radio,” he said, adding that Slais also played with Jefferson Starship and Elvin Bishop. The band Simons & Cameron specializes in making cheerful, holiday music that will make you smile, and with a jingling beat and light-hearted tune, it is easy to see why “Christmas is for Kids” is a Christmas favorite. “Lane and I love the fun, cheerful, timeless quality of holiday music,” said Simons. “Good holiday songs are played on the radio and TV year after year, never getting old.” It is their hope that “Christmas is for Kids” will also become a great Christmas classic, never getting old, and always to be heard around the holidays. To hear music by Simons & Cameron, visit their websites at ChristmasIsForKidsSong.com and SimonsAndCameron.com. All of their music is also available on iTunes and Amazon.

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

CHRISTMAS TREE CUTTING PERMITS AND TREE RECYCLING Where to Cut Your Christmas Tree As the holiday approaches, some may think of cutting down trees to serve as their Christmas tree. Please remember all Tahoe Donner tree removal rules apply to private property. Removal of trees from Tahoe Donner common areas is prohibited. A Tahoe Donner forestry permit is required for tree removal on private property for trees greater than four inches in diameter, measured at three feet off the ground. If you would like to cut your own Christmas tree from the Tahoe Basin, which excludes Tahoe Donner Common Area, please obtain a permit from the U.S. Forest Service from their office located at 855 Alder Avenue in Incline Village. For more information and to learn how to obtain a permit, call 775-831-0914 or visit http:// goo.gl/OrsGXV. This website also has detailed maps outlining all the designated areas in the Tahoe Basin to cut pine, fir and cedar trees. If you have any questions regarding tree removal at Tahoe Donner, please contact the Tahoe Donner Forestry Department at 530-587-9432.

Christmas Tree Recycling Beginning on Monday, Dec. 29, you will be able to bring your clean Christmas tree to the Northwoods Clubhouse for recycling. A large dumpster will be available for trees. The trees must be clean with no ornaments, tinsel, flocking, bases, or other items. Please do not leave your tree outside of the dumpster; they must be placed inside. The dumpster will be available from Monday, Dec. 29, 2014 through Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015, and will be picked up the following Friday. If you are unable to bring your tree to the Northwoods Clubhouse, curbside pickup will occur on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015 as part of the regular garbage pickup service. The trees must be cut into 3-foot lengths and again, must be free of ornaments, tinsel, and flocking. Additionally, they must be accessible to the driver (i.e., not buried in a snow bank). If you have questions about this tree-recycling program, please contact Roy Richner, Compliance Inspector at 530-587-9406 or compliance@tahoedonner.com. Bassett TD 1-12 Ad 2.556x2.403 pr3_Layout 1 1/31/10 6:0

tahoedonner.com |

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GO PAPERLESS! Enroll in our new OPT-IN PROGRAM with Tahoe Donner Association to go paperless and receive official communications via email instead of paper snail mail. To enroll, visit tahoedonner.com/update-your-profile/.

Serving Truckee/Lake Tahoe Residential • Commercial

NEW AFFORDABLE TRAVEL PROGRAM FOR SENIORS In an effort to make traveling more afford-

under 60, a fare charge of just $3 is required in

area, the Tahoe Transportation District

Truckee and Tahoe. In addition to providing

(TDD) and the Town of Truckee have teamed

transportation throughout the region, seniors

up to introduce a one-year pilot program for

can now venture to Reno, Nevada City, Grass

senior residents: North Tahoe Truckee Trans-

Valley, Auburn, Roseville and Sacramento for

port (NTTT).

just $8 to $10 and free for those over 60.

The new program aims to enhance seniors’

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| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

A travel schedule has been predetermined

accessibility to medical and dental appoint-

to help seniors plan out their trips with

ments, educational venues, governmental

monthly visits to each location indicated.

services, enrichment programs, volunteer

Reservations are required at least 72 hours

opportunities and other requested destina-

in advance. Seniors can make reservations by

tions. Transportation includes Americans

calling 530-550-7451.

with Disabilities Act accessibility for those

Please remember the NTTT is a pilot

over the age of 60, shared rides, and curb-to-

program and subject to cancellation. The

curb transportation. Door-to-door service

TDD and the Town of Truckee are relying on

is also available if requested upon making a

seniors to take advantage of this service to

reservation.

keep it going for years to come. To learn more

The best part? For seniors over 60, this service is FREE, although a donation to help keep

the program going is suggested. For those

able for seniors in the Truckee and Tahoe

about NTTT, visit http://www.tahoetransportation.org/nttt.

COMMITTEE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED MEET OTHER MEMBERS, LEARN NEW SKILLS, AND MAKE TAHOE DONNER EVEN BETTER! Committees play a vital role in running our association and they are often in need of new

Covenants Committee The Covenants Committee is respon-

members. While the Tahoe Donner board

sible for overseeing the administration and

members may be the most visible to the com-

enforcement of Tahoe Donner’s governing

munity, our committees do a lot of the “heavy

documents and the association rules as they

lifting” in running our association.

apply to property owners regarding care and

They provide valuable experience, insight and advice to the board and management; and, by augmenting the efforts and initiatives of

maintenance of properties and the behavior of property owners, their guests and tenants. The committee holds hearings in cases

paid staff, they save the association thousands

where property owners have violated those

of dollars each year. Although advisory in

portions of the governing documents and

their function, they increase the ability of the

association rules. Following due process, the

directors to get their tasks done efficiently and

committee may apply fines for violations and

in a timely manner, by providing additional

request other sanctions established by the

support and ideas.

board of directors.

Committee members are appointed by the

Periodically, the committee reviews the

board and the major function of committees

governing documents and association rules

is to assist the board by providing information

under its oversight and may recommend

gathered through research for a recommended

changes to existing rules and propose new

course of action for which the purpose, scope

rules as necessary to keep current with chang-

and authority must first be agreed upon.

ing conditions and requirements.

Each committee appointed by the board has a written charter or direction which defines expectations. Committees have no authority

General Plan Committee The General Plan Committee is responsible

about the association membership’s desires regarding their association and its surroundings. This plan is a living document that is adjusted every year to reflect market conditions and updated priorities.

Elections Committee It is the responsibility of the Elections Committee to assure the efficient administration of the association’s elections process. The committee verifies the eligibility and good standing of candidates volunteering to run for election to the board and monitors the election process to help assure its fairness and impartiality. The committee works together with the Inspector of Elections to see that the election is conducted in compliance with California civil and corporate law as well as the association’s governing documents. Any member of the association who is in good standing, who has a positive interest in contributing to the welfare of the association,

to act on behalf of the association, other than

for the continued development and periodic

who is prepared to invest the necessary time,

to formulate and present recommendations to

up-dating of the General Plan. The General

and who does not present a conflict of interest,

the board related to its stated purpose.

Plan was established as a long range plan,

is eligible to apply for appointment to a commit-

subject to Tahoe Donner board approval, that

tee. All prospective new committee members

provide assistance to the Tahoe Donner board

serves as a guide for addressing changing

wishing to be appointed should submit their

of directors in the governance and operation

conditions facing Tahoe Donner Association.

written request to Executive Assistant Bonnie

of the community: the Architectural Stan-

It is a comprehensive document to be pub-

Watkins at bwatkins@tahoedonner.com or

dards Committee, the Covenants Committee,

lished and made available for membership

by calling 530-587-9431. Initial applications

the Finance Committee, the General Plan

access that provides policies and guidelines

should include a brief summary of the appli-

Committee, the Elections Committee and the

for developing and preserving our community.

cant’s skills, abilities and experiences which

newly formed Giving Fund Operating and

The General Plan typically contains the goals,

the applicant possesses that are relevant to the

Grant Committee.

objectives, policies and programs intended to

purpose of the committee.

Currently, six standing committees exist to

Of these six committees, the following three have vacancies to be filled:

support the vision expressed through gathered surveys, comments and information

Consider volunteering. You can make a difference! tahoedonner.com |

BULLETIN BOARD

PROJECT EXAMPLES

BEFORE Roof Paint Change: Before (left and After (below).

AFTER

2014 was a busy building season, and Tahoe Donner saw its fair share of construction. On this page, we share a few photos of some recently completed projects. At right, before and after pictures show a roof paint change, and below are two newly built homes.

SEASON SKI PASSES ON SALE NOW EARLY BUYERS GET DEALS GALORE! ons to This yea r ther e are even mor e reas spas on seas ner beco me a Tah oe Don e mor the , buy hold er. The earlier you and ls dea e usiv you ’ll gain! Want excl ut free discounts just for you? How abo ner Don oe Tah rs? bies and spe cial offe rs skie for e stor in s has seve ral surp rise r thei e has purc and snowboarde rs who y, these season pass early, but don’t dela buy who e thos for spe cial perk s are only t wha w kno to t Wan on or befo re Dec . 15. om er.c onn oed Tah t the perk s are? Visi for com plete details.

hurry—PROMOTION ENDS Dec. 15!

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

Mountain Treasures Beautiful New Construction

New Vision for the Cottage Hotel

Attention to detail and custom finishings throughout this four With focus and seller perseverance the Cottage Hotel has sold to a new owner with an exciting vision for downtown Truckee. bedroom, three bath Tahoe Donner home. A must see! Photo is of model home. Kris Ferre 530 386 0999 $897,500 Sally Kleffman 530 906 3702 $725,000

Office locations Tahoe City Truckee Squaw Valley Incline Village

Quintessential Cabin in the Woods

Listed & Sold by Jeff and Carina Cutler

Enjoy this bright and cheery 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with views The spectacular setting for the home is unrivaled for Squaw of the golf course pond and easy access to all amenities Truckee and Valley and Truckee River enthusiasts. Tahoe has to offer. Marcelyn Cohune 530 388 8272 $619,000 Jeff & Carina Cutler 530 448 9556 $4,350,000

Glenbrook Zephyr Cove South Lake Tahoe Reno Carson Valley London

Prestigious Bennett Flat Meadow

Custom Craftsman Home

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love this well maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with an open floor plan, huge windows, BIG deck on the Meadow. Gerri Barriger 530 412 0944 $829,000

Fabulous acreage with stream, meadow, full sun, privacy and views in every direction. Thoughtfully designed 4,000 sq.ft. Indoor swim/exercise pool. Trinkie Watson 530 582 0722 $1,750,000

Agents from left to right: Kris Ferre, Marcy Cohune, Sally Kleffman, Jeff Cutler, Gerri Barriger and Trinkie Watson

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS... Santa visits us each year at our Light Up The Night event to hear all the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas wishes. Last year, he gave us some of the letters (after, of course, reading every single one of them). They were too cute, so we felt we had to share. Enjoy! tahoedonner.com |

STORED VALUE FOR GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS Uncertain what to get for your loved ones this holiday season? Instead of worrying over the perfect gift, give them the gift of stored value so they can pick exactly what they want! Stored value is a convenient way for Tahoe Donner members and member guests to utilize all of our wonderful amenities with just their member ID or member guest cards. And, beginning this month, stored value can now be used at both of our restaurants too. Picture your loved ones renting a paddleboard, playing a round of golf, skiing on the slopes or enjoying a scrumptious meal—with your gift, they’ll have the option of choosing the perfect option for themselves.

How it Works Stop by or call Member Services to get started. All you need is the first and last name of the person to whom you’d like to give a stored value gift, plus a credit card or cash payment. You can purchase any amount and it will automatically be added to their ID card. We’ll also provide a gift card that can be given as a present. Stored value works just like a gift card, except the money is placed on the member’s ID or guest card and can be used everywhere at Tahoe Donner. And if you, yourself, want to leave the credit cards and cash at home, you can transfer funds onto your ID card anytime, too. It’s the ultimate in flex-

WINTER ORNAMENTS, MAGNETS, AND MORE! Want to spread a little winter cheer this year? Consider giving your friends and family wonderful Tahoe Donner mementos—they make great stocking stuffers, too! We are offering Tahoe Donner winter ornaments, luggage tags, magnets and even postcards. Pricing starts at just $0.50. Get these goodies at Member Services or on ShopTD.

ibility! Call 530-587-9400, ext. 0 to get signed up now.

facebook.com/ tahoedonner twitter.com/ tahoedonner 26

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

THE MOST SNOW IN TAHOE SHORTEST LIFT LINES AND LEAST CROWDED SLOPES

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tahoedonner.com |

BULLETIN BOARD

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM ASO We hope you had a lovely Thanksgiving and wish you happy holidays into the new year. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to take a moment to thank the members of our Architectural Standards Committee (ASC) who have done a wonderful

on the ASO permit processing side during our peak volume period over the summer months. I would like to take this opportunity to also thank homeowners and

job and who have volunteered over 235 hours, making 2014 a very suc-

their hired professionals who weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked with during the last year.

cessful and productive year. The committee has reviewed and approved

All have been very diligent and the ASC and ASO staff have created

over 300 projects and 160 revisions, similar to the high volume year

lasting positive relationships with these homeowners to ensure that the

back in 2007.

aesthetics and standards of our association are upheld.

As the year comes to a close, I also want to commend my team Roy, Ali, Donn and Nolan on all they have accomplished during the past year. This year has been an exceptional one.

With over 250 property transfers in 2014 we look forward to meeting new members in the coming year. I wish you a safe, happy holiday.

Roy has done a tremendous job with the the homeowner inspection program, conducting over 800 inspections and re-inspections this year.

SHERYL WALKER | ASO MANAGER

Additionally, Roy has established a great working rapport by working alongside members and their realtors to create positive results in Tahoe Donner. Covenants items have been at an all-time low, illustrating the success due to the proactive nature of the homeowner inspection program. Ali has worked diligently throughout the year processing the submittals, revisions and neighbor notifications along with closing out over 150 projects. Donn has assisted ASO over the busy summer months by inspecting over 165 properties this year, both for site inspections for new homeowner projects and to finalize and close out projects that have completed construction. Nolan, who started in the ASO in mid-July has greatly assisted both Roy with the homeowner inspection program and compliance and Ali

ASO 2015 MEETING DATES: Below is the schedule of ASC meetings for the first half of 2015, and the deadline for plans to be submitted to the ASO 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, 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. Please call 530-587-9407 to schedule an appointment.

A NOTE OF THANKS

MEETING DATE:

DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTAL:

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18, 2014

FROM THE COMPLIANCE INSPECTOR

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28

TUESDAY, JAN. 6

As the end of the year approaches, I want to take this oppor-

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21

WEDNESDAY, MAR. 11

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 18

WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25

WEDNESDAY, MAR. 4

than you can imagine. This past year has presented some inter-

WEDNESDAY, APR. 8

WEDNESDAY, MAR. 18

esting discussions for the committee; I suspect next year will

WEDNESDAY, APR. 29

TUESDAY, APR. 7

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13

WEDNESDAY, APR. 22

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6

WEDNESDAY, JUN. 10

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

WEDNESDAY, JUN. 24

WEDNESDAY, JUN. 3

tunity to extend my sincere thanks to each of you for your continued participation in the Covenants Committee. Your commitment of over 150 hours to this committee is valued more

be no different. With a variety of backgrounds and experiences, you have all helped the committee complete another successful year. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

ROY RICHNER | COMPLIANCE INSPECTOR

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

BULLETIN BOARD

SEASONAL SAFETY TIPS: CARBON MONOXIDE Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas that is produced by burning wood, charcoal, natural gas, gasoline, propane, oil, methane, and other common fuels. In residential homes, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel can be sources of CO. Please observe the following safety tips to prevent CO poisoning in your home. • CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards. For the best protection, interconnect all CO alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound. • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and mounting height. • Choose a CO alarm that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory. • Call your local fire department’s non-emergency number to find out what number to call if the CO alarm sounds. • Test CO alarms at least once a month; replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. • If the audible trouble signal sounds, check for low batteries and replace if necessary. If it still sounds, call the fire department. • If the CO alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel. • If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it

from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not covered with snow. • During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build-up. • A generator should be used in a wellventilated location outdoors away from windows, doors and vent openings. • Gas or charcoal grills can produce CO — only use outside.

between the sound of a smoke alarm and the sound of a CO alarm. (Information courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association: www.nfpa.org)

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

Street Address

Square Feet

Project

09/586

13674 Hansel Ave.

1924

House

09/455

13353 Hansel Ave.

1902

House

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TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS BOARD MEETING RECAP OCTOBER 25, 2014 Consent Calendar: Approved Covenants Committee Alternate Appointment (Ashcraft). Trails Masterplan Update: Approved Planning Consultant Gavin Ball provided the Board with a report on Phase 2 of this plan, which detailed associated costs and an anticipated schedule for obtaining agency approvals. Following Mr. Ball’s report, the Board approved moving forward with necessary resource studies this fall 2014. Director of Finance & Accounting Report: Approved The Board approved the unaudited preliminary September Financials. 2015 Budget – Annual Assessment, Recreation Fee, and Other Fees: Approved The Board approved the 2015 Annual Budget. This approval includes the following notable items:

• A 2015 Annual Assessment amount of $1,800; an increase of $200. • An increase of the Recreation Fee from $245 to $260 beginning 5/1/2015. Executive Session Report: • The Board approved the General Manager to pursue the acquisition of Nevada County Auction properties located within the Tahoe Donner Owned Bucknam Tract. • The Board affirmed a 2012 contract with American Tower Corporation, that had previously been approved by the Board, for a 35 year lease, in near proximity to the Downhill Ski Area Eagle Rock ski lift top terminal on Association common area, to install a cell tower utility tree tower with associated support facilities in conformance with Town of Truckee codes and regulations and Tahoe Donner ASC rules. • The Board conducted annual legal training on Corporate Governance, Director Fiduciary Duty, Duty of Loyalty, and Duty of Care. 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.

Get out & play this holiday season while we do all the work for you. Thinking of buying or selling? Call Kane Schaller and Jessica Ferguson today!

TruckeeHomeFinder.com 530.550.5024 530.550.5009

| Tahoe Donner News | December 2014

Zimbabwe

Steve and Patti Brown at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe at the end of three weeks of tent-camp safaris to Masai Mara in Kenya, the Serengetti and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania and the Sabi Sand in South Africa.

Tahoe Donnateherr Grandths), Mia Glace (14 mon hoe Donner Ta pa rents House in nner News. â&#x20AC;&#x153;reading â&#x20AC;? the Do

BURMA/MYAN Cy nt hia and Tom

MAR

At kin traveling in

exotic Burma December 2013. Th is was their first view of the Bu rmese Buddha in Ra ngoon/ Ya ngon. for three weeks in

New Zealand

New ZeaDick and Ginny Clark on the Milford Sound, islands. land during a three-week driving trip of both

tahoedonner.com tahoedonner.com| | 31

ARIZONA

Susan and Ted Brown at the south rim of the Grand Canyon, while visiting friends in Arizona.

JAPAN

Wa lt and Pat Samuelson get the off ting ready to scuba dive ters Keramas Isla nds, 32 kilome west of Okinawa, Japan.

ARGENTINA Colette and Mike Needham, taken in Ushuaia, Argentina, the “End of the World,” on Colette’s 83rd birthday.

PATAGONIA Andy Pasternak, wife JoAnn Ellero, and her mother Marisa Ellero visited the Patagonia region recently. While on a group hiking trip to the Perito Moreno glacier, they discovered that two other hikers, Michael and Merle Fajans, were Tahoe Donner homeowners!

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 | September 2014

Alison and the Elder Group Wish Your Family A Spectacular Holiday Season and Fabulous 2015! Another Record Year of Real Estate Sales! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to extend a special Thank You to our clients, friends, RealtorsÂŽ, professional relationships and Tahoe Donner for your continuing partnership. Alison Elder 530 582 8103

tahoe@alisonelder.com eldergrouptahoerealestate.com Cal BRE #01399851

From Our Door to Yours...

Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday and all the best for 2015, from all of us at Dickson Realty. RiceConwayTeam.com | 530.582.9992

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

530.587.7444

DicksonTruckee.com