Tahoe Donner News January 2017 by Tahoe Donner Association

NEWS

JANUARY 2017

12/22/16 2:14 PM

TDNews_COVER_January_2017.indd 2

SCENERY BY SNOWSHOE With a new snowshoeonly pass and added snowshoe trails, it's time to get out to explore! P18

WINTER DRIVING

DEPARTMENTS

TAKE NOTE

President’s Message Assessment and amenity fee stay flat

It's that time of year! Refresh your memory with tips and reminders on driving on snow and ice.

Monthly Calendar Don’t miss our January events

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GPC Public Forum General Plan Committee public meeting

FORESTRY DEPARTMENT UPDATE An end-of-the-year recap and update on what the Tahoe Donner Forestry department has been up to this year.

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Let’s Get Together Your source for TD events and specials Notes from ASO Winter reminders for home, property

Snowman Contest Enter your creation you could win! Emergency Prep Community training available Forestry Education Local sixth graders get forestry lesson Chef Promotion Joe Casey promoted at Alder Creek Café Coverage Policy See changes to the Coverage policy

SWEP RECEIVES FUNDS Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships (SWEP) received funds from Tahoe Donner Giving Fund.

Board Meeting Read a recap from the Nov. 12 meeting

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

ON THE COVER: A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN EUER VALLEY, BY TOM LIPPERT

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tahoedonner.com |

VOL. 18, NO. 01

WELCOME

JANUARY 2017 EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION STAFF Brinn Talbot Gretchen Sproehnle Ashley Quadros Derek Moore

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Jeff Bonzon, jbonzon@tahoedonner.com

Vice President

Ron Wulff, rwulff@tahoedonner.com

Treasurer

Steve Miller, smiller@tahoedonner.com

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Secretary

Jeff Schwerdtfeger, jschwerdtfeger@ tahoedonner.com

Director

Darius Brooks, dbrooks@tahoedonner.com

Board of Directors

Happy New Year, and welcome to 2017! As I write this edition of the President’s

The investment in snow-making equipment that we made last year is proving its worth.

message in mid-December, it has been raining

Temperatures in November were conducive to

for a couple days (washing away much of the

laying down up to four feet of man-made snow,

snow from November and early December),

allowing for an early opening of the lower

News, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA

and all eyes are on the thermometer, hoping

part of the hill, where we house our learning

96161; 530-587-9400, Fax 530-587-9419

for temperatures to fall. It would be great to

center. As we expected, this man-made snow

capture some of the moisture from this front

holds up better than natural snow when it

as snow!

rains, so we have been able to continue our

board@tahoedonner.com

Postmaster Send address changes to Tahoe Donner

comdep@tahoedonner.com

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

Publishing Information Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive

By the time this January edition of our magazine finds its way to your mailbox, we

lessons despite the wet conditions. With all that being said, please keep your

should have a good idea about how our winter

snow dances going! Then come out and enjoy

amenities performed during the Christmas

your winter sports activities at your home in

and New Year’s period that is so critical to

Tahoe Donner.

service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any

the Association’s financial performance. As

unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an

you know, our ability to hold both the annual

all of you for continuing to pay attention to

is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in

assessment and the amenity access fee flat for

your speed when driving around our Asso-

this publication does not constitute an endorse-

2017 was due, primarily, to the strong perfor-

ciation. My observations are that the “Slow

ment or recommendation by Tahoe Donner

mance of our winter amenities (versus budget)

Down, Tahoe Donner” campaign has resulted

products, services, or views contained therein.

during the 2015-16 winter, which was an aver-

in an improvement in our driving habits. We

Tahoe Donner News (ISSN 1550-6061) is

age winter from a snowfall perspective. Our

all need to continue to be vigilant, particularly

Nordic, Downhill, and Snowplay amenities

as we move into the depth of winter and face

Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161.

(all of which benefit from use by the public)

less than ideal road conditions. If you have

Each membership parcel receives one sub-

rebounded from poor (non-snow) years to sig-

family and friends coming to visit, or are rent-

scription to a domestic address. Additional

nificantly contribute to the robust balances in

ing your place out, please remind your visitors

each. Cost to produce and distribute this

our Operating Fund. As a result, we were able

to back off the throttle, slow down, and enjoy

publication is offset by advertising revenues.

to reduce the amount of the assessment ear-

the beauty of our home in the mountains!

Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and

marked for the Operating Fund, shifting that

infringement of that service mark right and

Association or its board of directors of the

the official monthly publication of Tahoe Donner Association, which is located at 11509

subscriptions are available at the cost of $25

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

reduction to the Development and Replace-

section of tahoedonner.com, where publishing

ment Reserve Funds. This allowed us to keep

guidelines are available.

those two capital funds at their required levels without an increase in the overall assessment.

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

On a different subject, I would like to thank

I look forward to seeing you around the Association this winter!

JEFF BONZON | BOARD PRESIDENT

January

JAN. 6

FOR ADDITIONAL JANUARY EVENTS SEE

LET’S GET TOGETHER ON PAGE 10 FREE WINE TASTING

Like free wine? Who doesn’t! Sample selections from Pine Ridge wine brand at The Lodge. See page 17.

JAN. 7

MOONLIGHT SNOWSHOE TOUR

Join us for a moonlight snowshoe tour from the Alder Creek Adventure Center that even includes a bowl of chili. See page 12.

STARTING JAN. 7

TD Nordic Kids - Then and Now

LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY

Attention music lovers: enjoy live music at Trailside Bar every Saturday night. Free! See page 17.

JAN. 9-13 AND 17-20

LEARN TO SKI OR SNOWBOARD

Special offers are available at both ski areas. Cross Country deals valid through Jan. 31 (midweek, non-holiday). See page 11.

Our popular cross country ski programs for kids have been going on for decades and our region has consistently produced top Nordic competitors. Starting at an early age is the key. While equipment has improved in leaps and bounds over the years, one thing hasn't changed: the fun factor! ALL EVENTS ARE DEPENDENT ON CONDITIONS. PLEASE CHECK TAHOEDONNER.COM OR CALL 530-587-9400 FOR UPDATES.

JAN. 14-16

SAFETY WEEKEND

From exciting scavenger hunts to snow science and saftey, don't miss Safety Weekend! See page 11.

JAN. 28

WINTERPALOOZA

This family-friendly event includes tube racing, snowman building, relay races, and more—for all ages! See page 10.

tahoedonner.com |

SAFETY FIRST:

WINTER DRIVING REMINDERS Tahoe Donner staff and the Truckee police department want to remind everyone to drive safely this winter season. While driving in snow or icy conditions, reducing speeds and being “light” on vehicle controls is the best method for maintaining control. Light acceleration, light turning movements and light braking coupled with reduced speeds and increased following distances are by far the most proactive things you can do. It is also important to make sure your vehicle is equipped properly for winter driving. If you haven’t done so already, check your wiper blades, washer fluid and tires in order to be best prepared for all sorts of winter weather. If you do not have an AWD/4WD vehicle, make sure you have chains that fit your tires and that you know how to use them. Windows should be clear of snow and ice at all times. Residents and visitors alike are also reminded that there is no parking in the Town right of way from Nov. 1 to April 30. Vehicles parked in the right of way are subject to citation and towing. These rules apply within Tahoe Donner Association.

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| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

CALLING ALL CREATIVE

SNOWMAN BUILDERS! Build your snowman and participate in the eighth annual Tahoe Donner Snowman Contest! A family favorite and one of our most popular contests, families and kids definitely don’t want to miss out on this fun contest! To participate, simply build your own snowman or snow creature, take a photo with you in it and email the photo with a short story about your snow-building adventure, including names of everyone in the picture, to comdep@tahoedonner.com. Please submit only .jpeg files of 300 dpi or higher for printing.

SUBMISSIONS ARE DUE BY 5 P. M . ON SATURDAY, APRIL 1 . THE BEST CRE ATIONS WILL WIN PRIZES AND BE FE ATURED ON FACEBOOK AND IN THE TAHOE DONNER NEWS .

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TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS Member Communications (area code 530)

Member Services 587-9400 info@tahoedonner.com General Manager 587-9431 gm@tahoedonner.com Contact Member Services to be transferred to other departments. Amenities Beach Club Marina 587-9460 marina@tahoedonner.com Bikeworks 582-9694 bikeworks@tahoedonner.com Corporate Blue Logo: Cross Country Ski Area 587-9484 Can xcski@tahoedonner.com be used on white or light photo Downhill Ski Area 587-9444 ski@tahoedonner.com background 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 Unacceptable Uses of Dickson Realty Logo Pizza On The Hill 582-9669 pizza@tahoedonner.com Recreation Info Hut 587-9413 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Campground 587-9462 campground@ tahoedonner.com Tennis Center 587-9474 tennis@tahoedonner.com Trails 582-9672 trails@tahoedonner.com Trout Creek Rec. Center 587-9437 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Association Committee Chairs Architectural Standards, Rod Whitten aso@tahoedonner.com Covenants, Al Noyes alandjosi@gmail.com Elections, Bette Rohrback truckeebette@yahoo.com Finance, Art King aiking156@att.net General Plan, Dwight Walker walker.dwight@outlook.com Giving Fund Chairman, Dick Gander tdgf@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Association Chartered Club Presidents Bridge Club, Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net Friends of TD Trails, B.R. Levine tdtrails@gmail.com Rowing Club, Dot Mace dotmace@me.com Dickson Realty Tagline Senior Alpine Ski, Michael Eyton-Lloyd hmsmike1@aol.com Tennis, Michele Forsberg minkeysf@sbcglobal.net 9-Holers, Lynette Powell lynette.powell@sbcglobal.net Men’s Golf, Patrick Gemma patgemma1@att.net Women’s Golf, Bettye Carmichael ibboop@suddenlink.net Hiking Club, Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net Corporate Blue Logo: Quilt Club, Linda Brush sewlinda@aol.com Can jslai@comcast.net be used on white or light photo Junior Golf Club, Jean Lai background Corporate Blue Logo TD 4-Wheelers Club, Bill Ratcliff td4wheelers@gmail.com Equestrian Club, Susan Terrell terrellsf@earthlink.net

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tahoedonner.com |

4/1/16 2:59 PM

YEAR-END REVIEW: SUCCESSES OF THE TAHOE DONNER FORESTRY DEPARTMENT AND WHAT'S COMING IN 2017 BY BILL HOUDYSCHELL The forestry department accomplished much this season. First, we were able to secure a California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) grant from CAL FIRE. These grants share the cost of eligible projects to improve privately owner forest land in California. The cost of projects is shared by the landowner (25 percent) and the state (75 percent). For the project work completed this season, Tahoe Donner Association will receive $46,140. This money will help the forestry department complete projects in a timelier manner than outlined in the Forestry Department 5-Year Plan.

COMPLETED DURING THE 2016 FIELD SEASON Tree planting: We planted 315 western white pine in the spring; planted 465 sugar pine during Truckee River Day, with the help from volunteers; and planted 1,593 Jeffrey and sugar pine in the

fall for a total of 2,373 seedlings. The Sugar Pine Foundation donated the western white and sugar pine seedlings.

Common area treatment: We completed defensible space items and treated 69.42 acres. Here we removed lower limbs, cut and removed small trees, modified brush, removed or modified dead and down material on the forest floor and either masticated, chipped or burned the material removed. (See photo above.)

Removal of dead trees from association owned lands: We cut, removed the wood, and treated the slash from 580 dead trees this season. Some of the larger tree in accessible areas were hauled to a local lumber mill.

Property owner chipping program: We chipped 1,514 piles of material placed curbside for a total of 493.5 tons of chip. Burning: The forestry department burned 804 hand piles located throughout the property.

Plantations and fuel breaks: We treated 111.70 acres. The treatment included lower limb removal from trees, removal of excess small trees and mastication of brush along with chipping of all slash.

Property owner defensible space program: We inspected 750 properties and assisted 619 property owners with bringing their properties into compliance. We also made 307 visits to properties for defensible space inspections during a change of ownership.

TAHOE DONNER WILL RECEIVE $46,140 FROM THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOR FORESTRY PROJECT WORK THIS YEAR.

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

Tree permits: We visited 345 properties for tree advice and issued tree removal permits.

KYLE KELLY

ABOVE LEFT: The forestry department burning hand piles this past December. ABOVE MIDDLE: Before treatment. ABOVE RIGHT: After treatment; removal of dead trees, limbs, and small brush contributes to the overall health of the forest at Tahoe Donner.

Property owner dead tree program: We identified, marked and corresponded with 210 property owners concerning the removal of dead trees from their properties.

LOOKING AHEAD: PLANS FOR 2017

Tree planting:

We plan on treating 50 acres of common area and will continue the removal of dead trees from the property.

Plantations and fuel breaks: We plan on treating 120 acres including mastication, small tree thinning, lower limb removal with material created to be chipped and scattered over the project sites.

We plan on planting over 4,000 red fir, western white, sugar and Jeffrey pine trees.

Property owner defensible space program:

Common area work:

We have inspected 733 properties in units 6 and 7 for the 2017 program and will work with

owners over the summer toward compliance. Additionally, chipping, property owner dead trees and tree permit programs will operate as normal during 2017. We will participate in Truckee River Day again this coming year. This event usually takes place on a Sunday in mid-October and we will be looking for volunteers. See related forestry story on shaded fuel breaks at Tahoe Donner on page 22.

tahoedonner.com |

CAPITAL PROJECTS

GPC PUBLIC FORUM COMING UP JANUARY 6: TROUT CREEK REALLOCATION PROJECT

Join your General Plan Committee (GPC) and neighbors to learn about the Trout Creek Recreation Center space reallocation project, which has been proposed to maximize the space available within the current building’s footprint and to minimize expansion costs. You’ll hear about the history and vision for this popular activity center, see the proposed architectural plans and find out how this space reallocation project compares to the old 4,000 square foot expansion plan. This is your opportunity to provide your views and opinions about this project. Questions and comments are welcome, and your participation is warmly encouraged.

CAPITAL PROJECT

IDEA DEVELOPMENT

PROJECT SELECTION

If you cannot attend in person, you can attend online as the forum will be live-streamed for real-time viewing with the opportunity to submit your questions via live-chat during the meeting, and a recording of the forum will be available following to view on our website as well.

WHEN: FRIDAY, JAN. 6 WHERE: NORTHWOODS CLUBHOUSE, UPSTAIRS IN THE MEZZANINE TIME: 5 P.M.

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN

FINAL DESIGN

SUMMER TRAIL GROOMING

Completed

ALDER CREEK ADVENTURE CENTER ADDITIONAL STORAGE

Seeking Contractor

TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER POOLISIDE LOCKER ROOM REMODEL

Mid-Dec Completion

TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER SPACE REALLOCATION

Feasibility Study Underway

CLUSTER MAILBOX CONSOLIDATION

Options Being Evaluated

GLACIER WAY EXPANDED PARKING

Options Being Evaluated

DOWNHILL SKI AREA STUDY

Awaiting AMP Priority Project Task Force Formed

This chart shows the current status of capital projects as they progress through the six-stage Capital Projects Process. For more detail, visit tahoedonner.com/major-projects/ and click on Active Projects. | Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

REVIEW

1st Draft Under Review

ASSOCIATION MASTER PLAN

EQUESTRIAN CENTER PHASE 3

POST PROJECT

Final Station In Spring

WATER BOTTLE FILLING STATIONS

CONSTRUCTION

Suggestions are always welcome. If you have an idea for an improvement project, new amenity, facility or service at Tahoe Donner, please complete the form located at tahoedonner.com/major-projects/ and click on Submit Your Ideas.

ASSIST THE COMMUNITY IN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: TRAINING AVAILABLE The Truckee Fire Protection District is starting a volunteer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to help better prepare the community in the event of a disaster like a major wildfire or earthquake. The CERT program educates citizens about disaster preparedness for hazards that could impact our area and provides training in basic disaster response skills including fire safety, light search and rescue and disaster first aid. Using this training, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhoods or workplaces following incidents when professional responders are not immediately available to help. Truckee residents are invited to enroll in the 2017 CERT basic training academy led by the Truckee Fire Department. Topics covered over six dates and 24 hours include: introduction/disaster preparedness, fire safety and utility controls, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue operations, CERT organization/disaster psychology, and disaster simulation/graduation. Training begins Jan. 31 and is open to the first 50 people who sign up and can commit to every training session. After all 50 students have been confirmed, the Truckee Fire Protection District will continue to accept applications and will keep regular monthly communications to notify folks of future training academy dates. To learn more, go to the Truckee Fire website at Truckeefire.org or call 530-582-7850.

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one of our snowball launchers to see how far your snowballs will fly!

OOD S W H T R N O P OO L play’s Fastest Tube Event! Heats will run R NNE D O hour E every half from 1–2:30 p.m. O TA H R KS O W E K I B Winterpalooza, Jan. 28 Fly down the hill at Tahoe Donner SnowPR

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This all-day event includes tube racing, snowman building, relay races, and more. Don’t miss it! At Snowplay, all events are weather and conditions dependent. Please see our website at tahoedonner.com/snowplay to confirm operating status or give us a call at 530-5879437 before heading out.

ROGER BURNS | RECREATION SUPERVISOR

Donner Snowplay at 1:30 p.m. to compete. Use

R N T EContest, E C s Snowball Launching Jan. 14 i nn e t Have good aim? Prove it! Come out to Tahoe

Fastest Tube Event, Jan. 21

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JANUARY EVENTS:

p.m. for night tubing.

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

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Tube under the lights this winter until 6:30

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Friday Night Tubing, Jan. 6

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The Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area retail

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ENT E R C Stylish Roxy and Quicksilver brands highs i n t en light our outerwear forEmen, women and chilR N ON E R tubes are O E Dhoods and dren. BlackStrap TA H E N Tneck C N A I fun products U ESTtoR keep your head warm. Protect Q E your head with Smith helmets. Prepare your the 2016-2017 season.

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R EA A I K S ILL series of improver classes OW NaHfour-week DEnjoy

skis, and Burton snowboards. In addition, available for an upgraded experience. Anon

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and exploring the blue trails. Session dates:

Getting rentals without lessons? No need to do two transactions—purchase your daily lift ticket when checking out in the rental shop.

JANUARY EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:R DON HOE

Month, O U R SE C F L O G

TA Snowboard

Learn to Ski or Jan. 9–13 and 17–20

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We’re celebrating first timers! The annual Learn to Ski or Snowboard Month takes place on Jan. 9–13 and 17–20. We will offer Learn to Ski or Snowboard packages for $39. These packages include all-day lift ticket, rental equipment, and a 1-hour, 45 minute group lesR son This offer is for anyone ages 7Oand N N Eup. OE D H A T

V ENT E L A I Ski and Snowboard Safety Weekend, C SPE Jan. 14–16

January is National Learn to Ski Month To celebrate National Learn to Ski Month, Tahoe Donner Cross Country is offering two for one private lessons and private lesson

PR E R MONDAYS: JAN. 30 – FEB. 20: CLASSIC I VAT E A M NE DON E O H SKIING – 8:30–10 A.M. TA

C ENT E R

ST R IAN MAR. 6 – 27: SKI SKATING – EQ U EMONDAYS: 8:30–10 A.M.

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FRIDAYS: JAN. 13–FEB. 3: SKI SKATING – 8:30–10 A.M.

with our new state-of-the-art stone grinder.

above, who are comfortable on our green trails

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COST: $120. TRAIL PASS REQUIRED.

day from Jan. 9–31. For just $59, you and a TY

cross country skiers who are intermediate and

Women’s Skating Improvement Tuesdays and Wednesdays

N friend can get anPhour U B L I C Aof M E private instruction

with one of our top instructors. ($89 includes

N ON This four-week series of women only ski OE D

a lesson, day ticket and equipment for two

KS K E WO R I B PSIAEClinician Andrea Miller. Join fellow R Seniors – Learn to Cross Country Ski O E D O N N skiers to learn and improve your skating skills H TA DS R on Fridays A U G E L I F while having fun on the trails. TA H

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Helmets are included with all group lesson

B Uedge L Need to tune up your gear with a sharp C A N I full tune ups J Ooffers and wax? Our rental shop

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helmets can be rented with or without gear. BER

great demo skis by Rossignol and Volkl are

MEM packages that include all-day rentals. T TD

Improve Your N E R Country Skiing – NCross E DO O H TA Mondays and Fridays

H AT T H E

supportive environment and at an unbeatable price! Designed for beginners new to skiing, or downhill skiers/snowboarders wanting to try

Participate in many different activities,

their hand at cross country. Cost includes four

which will help you be safe on the mountain.

weeks of instruction, rentals and trail passes.

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• Tuesdays – Jan. 3–24: 10–11:30 a.m. • Tuesdays – Feb. 7–Feb. 27: 10–11:30 a.m. Intermediates: • Wednesdays – Jan. 4–25: 10–11:30 a.m. • Wednesdays – Feb. 8–Mar. 1: 10–11:30 a.m. COST: $120. TRAIL PASS REQUIRED.

tahoedonner.com |

L AY TY

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ER OTHER PROGRAMS STARTING IN ONN OE D H A T JANUARY

S G UA R D LTheI F Erental shop has a fleet of Volkl and Elan

TD pins, and more.

ROBERT MCCLENDON | DOWNHILL SKI P AREA MANAGER

E & R

EN R TA L S N N Ewith hand warmers, sunblock, head up D Ohill Ethe O H TA

COST: $89 ($69 FOR TAHOE DONNER MEMBERS)

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Finally, wrap up your loose ends before you R

PR R EN I VAT E A M NNE E D O percent off on Smith helmets and goggles.

O TA H t-shirts, and trucker hats gear with pride.

E OG SESSION DATES: FRIDAYS, JAN. 6–27: S & RAM 10–11:30 A.M. (ADDITIONAL SERIES ARE OFFERED IN FEBRUARY AND MARCH).

Tahoe Donner branded BlackStrap beanies,

S O DparticOBy W H there will be activities forOeveryone. T R N P OOoffering L 25 ipating in safety weekend, we are coloring contest, to snow science and safety, Y

on our beautiful bluebird days. Wear your

snowy days, and Forecast by Smith sunglasses

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From exciting scavenger hunts, to a national

eyes for the weather with Smith goggles on

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Great Ski Race Preparation Training Group - Thursdays An 8-week series of ski improvement and training tips taught by PSIA Clinician/USSA Coach Glenn Jobe. Whether it’s your first Great Ski Race, or your 30th, there’s always room for more efficiency in our skiing. Join Glenn Jobe to find out how to work less and ski faster! Entry to The Great Ski Race is not a requirement. SESSION DATES: THURSDAYS, JAN. 12– MAR. 2: 11 A.M.–12 P.M.

ten through fifth grade) • Fridays – Junior Racers (intermediate skiers third-fifth grade) Sign up via ShopTD or call Member Services at 530-587-9400.

Ever Thought of Entering a Ski Race? The annual Skogsloppet Race will be hosted at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area on Sunday, Jan 16. The Skogsloppet, a fundraiser for the Truckee High School and Middle School

COST: $180. TRAIL PASS REQUIRED.

Nordic teams, is our favorite local ski race.

Improve Your Skating - Saturdays

motivator to improve your fitness and tech-

A four-week series of skating improver classes taught by USSA Coach Karl Volz. Open to all cross country skaters who are intermediate and above, who are comfortable on our green trails and exploring the blue trails. Intermediate skaters and above: • Saturdays: Jan. 7–28: 8:30–10 a.m.

Knowing you are going to do a race is a great nique and is a fun way to challenge yourself. The 15-kilometer course takes racers around Euer Valley. There will also be a 2-kilometer race for kids. Racing starts at 10 a.m. See our events page on the website for the link to sign up. Pick up a free copy of Far West Nordic Ski

least 24 hours in advance at tahoedonner.com/ shop. TIME: 4 – 6 P.M. COST: $25 FOR ADULTS; $15 FOR KIDS UNDER 18 (MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT). SNOWSHOE RENTAL: ADD $10 IF YOU NEED TO RENT SNOWSHOES.

Equipment Demo Day, Jan. 8

Education Association’s annual magazine to

Your second opportunity this season to try

read more about ski racing in the area. Also,

what’s new in the way of skis boots and poles

mark your calendar for Sunday, Feb. 12 for the

this year. Industry reps will be on site with

COST: $120. TRAIL PASS REQUIRED.

Tahoe Donner Challenge Tour/Race!

demo gear for you to try and will be happy to

2016–17 Kids Programs are On Sale Now

JANUARY EVENTS AT THE CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREA

• Saturdays: Feb. 4–25: 8:30–10 a.m. • Saturdays: March 4–25: 8:30–10 a.m.

Sign your children up for one or more of these popular after school 8-session programs which run from 3:45–5 p.m. starting in January. These programs are expected to fill up again this year. • Tuesdays – Junior Biathlon (second through fifth grade basic ski handling skills required) • Wednesdays – TD Kids (all levels kindergarten through fifth grade) • Thursdays – TD Kids (all levels kindergar-

Moonlight Snowshoe Tour, Jan. 7 Join us for a guided moonlight snowshoe hike followed by a steaming bowl of delicious chili and drinks at the Trailside Bar. Meet at Alder Creek Adventure Center at 3:45 p.m. if you need to rent equipment, or 4 p.m. if you have your own gear. Dress in warm layers, including hats and gloves, and bring water and a headlamp. Includes evening trail pass, guided tour, and a bowl of housemade chili. Space is limited. Please reserve your spot(s) at

share their knowledge about what equipment is right for you. Free event; trail pass required. TIME: 11 A.M. – 3 P.M. COST: FREE!

Wax Tech Help for Skogsloppet, Jan. 15 Looking for maximum efficiency and performance for race day? Join Tahoe Donner Cross Country and Far West Nordic wax gurus and other Nordic enthusiasts to wax and structure your skis. Bring your own wax, or buy from us to get your skis in the best shape for racing in the Skogsloppet race on Monday. Free clinic; race registration is not required. TIME: 4:30 – 6 P.M. COST: FREE!

It's Not Too Late to Benefit from a Season Pass A season pass is the best way to get out on the trails – no lines to buy tickets – just a swipe of the pass and you are off enjoying the trails. Discounted restricted passes are also available for snowshoeing and fat biking this year. See below. Benefits of buying a full Season Pass: DEREK MOORE

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

•

Season passholders can ski early on

non-storm days.* We have a regular 7 a.m. “early bird” crowd that takes advantage of the new locker room to ASHLEY QUADROS

change into their ski boots and enjoy the fresh grooming before work. You can even grab a muffin and coffee before you leave. Locker room and trails open at 7 a.m. The lodge opens and coffee is ready at 8:30 a.m. *Note: 7 a.m. “early bird” access is only available on non-storm days to allow for grooming and snow removal. Check the weather and grooming report before •

you leave home in the morning.

come all day, any day, except for week-

price. Cost is $150 for members, $200 for pub-

Season passholders receive 10 percent

ends and holidays* when we only allow

lic (all ages). See the website for more details

off food, non-alcoholic beverages and

dogs before 9:45 a.m. and after 3 p.m.

about snowshoeing on our trails.

retail at the Cross Country Ski Area (discount not available on sale items). • •

Season passholders receive free access

March 1 – end of season: All day, any day.

Season passholders are welcome to ski with

to Tahoe Donner’s Snowplay area.

their dog on “early bird’” days (non-snow

Combo season passholders also receive

removal mornings). Check the daily grooming

skiing and boarding at our downhill

report for updates on “early bird” ski status.

area and 10 percent off food and non-

*2017 restricted holiday access: Jan. 1–2;

alcoholic beverages at Pizza on the Hill and The Lodge restaurants (not valid during holiday periods). •

•

See all season pass pricing online at tahoedonner.com/cross-country/rates.

Expanded Dog Trails Add just $50 to your season pass and you

Jan. 14–16; Feb. 18–25. See the website for more details.

Expanded Snowshoe Trails We have 15 kilometers of single track trails for snowshoers and fat bikers to explore. These single tracks wind through the woods

An additional ticket or pass is required to ski and/or fat bike.

Expanded Fat Biking Trails When conditions allow, fat bikers can enjoy 8 kilometers of machine groomed ski trails (dog friendly trails) and 15 kilometers of single track (snowshoe) trails daily, and if the trail surface is firm enough, we will allow riding on the Home Range and Sunrise Bowl trails on Tuesday and Sunday mornings. (See the daily grooming report for fat bike trail status). Also new this year is our fat bike-only season pass for folks who want to ride. Cost is

and meadows offering a peaceful alternative

$150 for members, $200 for public (all ages).

can take your dog out on designated trails.

to the busier, wider ski trails. These trails are

Season passes are available for purchase

We have expanded the number of trails and

packed by snowmobile when conditions per-

online at ShopTD or at Member Services. Call

the hours for dogs this year. We now offer 7

mit. Note: We can’t always groom these right

530-587-9400 for assistance.

kilometers of dog friendly trails, all the way up

after a storm.

to Dogs in Space. Well-behaved dogs are allowed on the following days and times: •

Daily through Feb. 28: Dogs are wel-

New this year, we are offering a discounted

Before buying this pass, please be aware that purchase of a pass is no guarantee of

snowshoe-only season pass for folks who only

daily access. Fat biking will only be permitted

want to snowshoe. Enjoy snowshoeing on over

on designated trails when staff determines

100 kilometers of ski trails, plus 15 kilometers

conditions are firm enough for riders to have

of snowshoe specific trails for a discounted

tahoedonner.com |

January is National Safety Month

or snowshoe. Day tickets for fat biking cost $15 for members, $19 for public. (Ski/snowshoe season passholders who purchased their pass on or

U NT O C S S C RO

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Email xc@tahoedonner.com for more inforSH

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SALLY JONES | CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREA MANAGER

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about fat biking.

Looking for a Part-Time Job?

BLIC AM

to Tahoe Donner amenities, and generous discounts on food and retail. As of print date, we are still looking to fill the following positions: •

Parking Lot – Helping us maximize our parking and welcoming customers on weekend and holiday mornings.

•

Snow Removal – On call for those big storms we are hoping for.

•

After School Kids Instructors – If you can ski and love kids, we would love to talk to you about training to help us

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

one of our golf clubs to join—this is open to the

• Starting Thursday, Jan 12. • Women: Thursdays,N1-7 E Rp.m. DON

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• All games are 9 holes • Skins games, closest to the pin competitions • All games will be handicapped COST: $15 PER PERSON (INCLUDES $5 BUY IN FOR SKINS OR CLOSEST TO THE PIN)

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NT E R E C N A more information, or to book a time, please EST R I U Q E K contact Golf Operations Manager James REE ER C ALD Murtagh atO530-587-9442. UND R G P M CARegular hours of operation are every Thurspublic! Reservations are recommended. ForE AHO

When:

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New! Now Offering Golf Simulator League Nights!

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JAMES MURTAGH | GOLF MANAGER

What:

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own group. There is no need to be a member of

Tahoe Donner Cross Country is hiring for holidays. Benefits include a free pass, access

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when renting a bike from Tahoe Donner Cross

various positions to help us on weekends and

before Nov. 30 receive a free fat bike ticket Country). See the website for more details

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shovel, probe, Recco Rescue System. • Keep your partner in sight at all times. In many SIS accidents, skiers and snowboarders have part of their body or equipment visible but a partner isn’t there to see them. • Take heart. Increased awareness and education reduces SIS risks. For more safety tips, visit tahoedonner. com/downhill-ski/safety or join us for E Ski and Safety Weekend at Tahoe Donner TA H O Downhill Ski Area on Jan. 14-16.

Additional ticket or pass required to ski and/

• The easiest way to avoid a snow immersion suffocation (SIS) accident is to remain on groomed areas and avoid deep snow and tree well areas. • Be aware of the recent snowfall and the depth of the loose snow – always review snow conditions. • If you venture into ungroomed terrain: • Ride or ski with a partner and keep your partner in sight at all times. • Ski or ride in control. • Give tree wells a wide berth. Look at the open spaces between trees, not at them. • Skiers should remove ski pole straps. • Carry safety equipment including: cell phone with resort emergency number, transceiver or beacon, AvaLung, whistle,

fun without damaging the trails for skiers.

TREE WELL AND DEEP SNOW

• Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects. • People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them. • Do not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above. • Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others. • Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment. • Observe all posted signs, warnings, and closed off areas. • Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.

• Be smart and protect yourself with a helmet. • Get your helmet properly fitted by a certified technician. • Always buckle your helmet.

KNOW THE SKIER AND RIDER RESPONSIBILITY CODE! THIS INCLUDES:

LIDS ON KIDS

January is National Safety Awareness Month and Tahoe Donner offers safety programs for skiers and snowboarders to stay safe on the slopes. Following are a few important ideas to remember:

Winter Golf Academy - just $35 an hour for up to four people.

N E R to 8 p.m. Night is held on Thursdays from 6:30 DON

Kids Club Music and Movement

Enjoy singing interactive songs and R N Emoving DON

I CS and ATparents Ufor ER Q A exercise. This class is designed NN O D OE ER N TA H VNEI CRNETS ages 6 months-2 OR DE children O N N old. A parent is ES Dyears O H R A HOE TB E E A T V N M E C IAL required E at every class.R E AT I O C P E S R DAYS/HOURS: TUESDAYS, 4-4:30 P.M. S WOO D REGISTRATION PER MONTH: $30 FOR MEMBERS AND $40 FOR GUESTS. OO L DROP-IN FOR A SINGLE CLASS: $10 FOR MEMBERS AND $15 FOR GUESTS. E E K contact Fawn Rplease C T For more information, U O T R coordinator, C E N T E Rat fusher@ Usher, childcare C E R H C LU B tahoedonner.com. A R I NA AT T H E

AT T H E

the ski conditioning classes that were held at the Trout Creek Recreation Center this fall. The club has finalized the winter calendar

that provides lots of ski activity during our ski season. Weekly, on Mondays and Thursdays, we rotate skiing at Northstar, Squaw, Alpine,

AT E A M

I VAT E A M

Sugar Bowl and Homewood. Club ski days are fun and a great way to meet other skiers

MERCEDES FERGUSON | TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER MANAGER

of your same ability. In January, our series of clinics are held right here at the Tahoe Show and share with the quilt club.

ON OE D TA H

Bring a pillow and blanket, kick your feet up and enjoy either a classic or new movie starting at 6:30 p.m. every Friday night at Northwoods Clubhouse. Films are rated G and PG. Please call Member Services at 530-587-9400, ext. 0 to find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playing. Free!

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potluck dinners. For those who wish to spend more time ski racing, we have a race team affiliated with the Sierra League, which, in turn, is E affiliated with the Far West Ski Association. AHO

R IA N T S E U Q E T

The Tahoe Donner Quilt Club continues to meet every first and third Wednesday at Northwoods Clubhouse from 1 to 3R p.m. All

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Tahoe Donner Quilt Club

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a busy fall with a Halloween party, Warren

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skied our first runs of the season. The club had

of each meeting. We learn so very much from

OOD S W H T R O N P OO L 2017 equestrian boarding reservations are each other. For further information, contact R now open for members, and will be open to the NNE E D O Brush at sewlinda@aol.com or Marilyn O Linda H TA public on March 1. If you are not on our equesWO R KatSmd11792@outlook.com. E K Dundas I B trian boarding email list, please email KrysR NNE E D Oat kmecham@tahoedonner. tal-Rae Mecham O Tahoe Donner Senior Alpine Ski Club H TA S D R A U G com for an application or with any questions. Winter is here and some of us have already LIFE features of the club is the show and share part

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Enjoy a pizza from Pizza on the Hill and test

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Trivia Night

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now. Please visit our website at tdski.com for

we arrived at Como Ghost Town.

further details, and also for all of our other

Not exactly a thriving metropolis!

upcoming events and activities.

There was only the remnants of one building still there and lots of

TD 4 Wheelers Club As fall turned into winter, it’s harder to find trails to drive that are passable and where driving the road doesn’t damage the road itself. So, to find a fun and adventurous trail, we headed east into Nevada’s Pine Nut Mountains. The trail is called Sunrise Pass Trail. To get there we drove down to Minden, just south of Carson City, and then headed east. The trail winds through beautiful valleys with Pinyon and Juniper pines. It was an easy dirt trail with very few rocks and was not hard to navigate. The trail’s summit was at 7,100 feet and it provided us with beautiful views of Smith and Mason Valleys. We also caught a glimpse of some wild horses grazing in the meadows close by. Not far from the summit we came to the intersection of another trail called the Como Ghost Town Trail. We turned left and headed north on that trail. Far different from the trail we just left, this trail was very rocky and it was very slow going. About a half hour later

tailings from the mining that had taken place in the area. It’s hard to believe that in 1860 there were over 400 residents in Como. Continuing down the trail we ran across an old mine site. We could see how the mine was designed to divert water and ore into a big wheel used to separate the ore. We spent some time there

The 4-Wheelers exploring Sunrise Pass/ Como Trail. Photo by Bill Ratcliff.

walking around the site and taking pictures. The trail ended up at Highway 50,

attend and we brought unwrapped toys to

and then we took 6 Mile Canyon Road into

benefit Truckee Community Christmas. It

Virginia City. We had planned to do some walking around town but it had started to rain very hard and we decided some spicy Mexican food would be good to warm us up. We had

exchange and food and beverages provided by Pizza on the Hill. If you would like to join the fun and explore

a very good turnout for the trail run with 13

the less traveled backroads of this majes-

Jeeps and 24 people for dinner. The club had its annual holiday party early in December as well. We had about 30 folks

was a fun evening with a Secret Santa gift

tic region with us, please see our website at TD4wheelers.com or send us an email at td4wheelers@gmail.com.

Sold & Listed by The Sharp Team in Tahoe Donner JUST SOLD!

JUST SOLD!

Just Listed Tahoe Donner Contact Janie Sharp & Kristi Hood of The Sharp Listed: 14405 Northwood Blvd. for $1,460,000 4088 Sq. Ft. Listed: 13066 Round Hill Dr. for $975,000 ~New home 3022 Sq. Ft.

- Sold For $1,200,000 -

Represented the Buyer

- Sold For $1,032,000 -

Represented the Buyer

14612 Davos Drive

12391 Stockholm Way

2800+/- Sq ft | 4 Bedroom | 3.5 Bathroom

2939+/- Sq ft | 4 Bedroom | 3.5 Baths

JUST SOLD!

Listed: 12675 Saint Bernard Dr. for $499,000 1972 Sq. Ft. THE TAHOE DONNER MARKET IS HOT!

As of Dec. 13th: ONLY 32 homes listed for sale, 22 homes Pending Sale, 61 homes have SOLD since Oct. 1st, 2016 This is the best time to sell!! Call The Sharp Team today Janie’s Cell 530-412-1400 | Kristi’s Cell 530-386-0688 - Sold For $625,000 16602 Northwood Blvd. 2336+/- Sq ft | 5 Bedroom | 4 Bathroom

- Sold For $599,000 11955 Schussing Way 2136+/- Sq ft | 4 Bedroom | 3 Baths plus Family Room

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.THESHARPTEAM.COM

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

THEa.m. LODGE 8:30–10

Wild Wednesdays* Every Wednesday enjoy happy hour in the entire

12850 Northwoods Blvd. a.m. 530-587-9455 Cost: $120. Trail pass required tahoedonner.com/the-lodge

specials are valid all night long.

RESTAURANT & PUB Mondays: Mar. 6 – 27: Ski Skating – 8:30–10

restaurant. 25 percent off shared plates, soups and salads, plus drink

Happy Hour* Enjoy happy hour every Sunday –Thursday in The Pub

The restaurant is open daily for dinner starting at 5 p.m.

Women’s Skating Improvement Tuesdays

and Wednesdays Free Wine Tasting, Jan. 6 From 5–7 p.m., try selections from the Pine This series of women only ski Ridgefour-week wine brand.

from 5–6:30 p.m. Not valid Jan. 1 or Jan. 15.

No Corkage Tuesdays Bring in your own bottle of wine on Tuesdays and we’ll waive the corkage fee!

skating improvement classes are taught by

Saturday Night Live... Maine Starting Jan. 7, every SatPSIA Clinician Andrea Miller. Join Lobster fellow urday night in January, Chef Lew will offer different Live Main Lobster skiers to learn and improve your skating skills

specials to try. while having funThese on thespecials trails. will have limited availability while supplies last. Come early, come hungry! Beginners: •

Tuesdays – Jan. 3–24: 10–11:30 a.m.

Save the Date: Super Bowl Party, Feb. 5 For Super Bowl Sunday,

• Tuesdays – Feb. 7–Feb. 27: 10–11:30 The Pub will open at 3 p.m. with happy hour food and drink specials, a.m. along with our regular pub menu. Happy Hour will be valid throughout Intermediates: the duration of the game, and for those looking for even heartier options, • Wednesdays – Jan. 4 – 25: 10–11:30 our dinner menu will be available starting at 5 p.m. a.m. •

Wednesdays – Feb. 8 –

Mar. 1: 10–11:30 a.m. PIZZA ON THE

HILL

Snowflake Happy Hour*

Cost: Northwoods $120. Trail pass 11509 Blvd required. 530-582-9669

of 5–6 p.m., anytime it’s snowing, it’s still

tahoedonner.com/pizza-on-the-hill Great Ski Race Preparation

happy hour! If it snows all night, it’s happy

Training Group Thursdays

Open for dinner Thursday–Sunday, 5–8:30

An 8-week series of ski improvement and

p.m. with lunch offered on Jan. 1 only from

training tips taught by PSIA Clinician/USSA

11:30 a.m. –3 p.m. The bar is open at 1 p.m.

Coach Glenn Jobe. Whetherplayoff it’s your first for scheduled weekend games.

Great Ski Race, or your 30th, there’s always

Sundae Sunday, Jan.in22 room for more efficiency our skiing. Join From 4–5 p.m., bring your by for après Glenn Jobe to find out how tokids work lessanand

treat. Entry Let them buildGreat their own sundae skiski faster! to The Ski Race is from not aa variety of deliciously sweet flavors for $6.95. requirement. Session dates:

Weekend Football Playoff Action

Thursdays, Jan. 12–Mar. 2: 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Starting Jan. 7, the bar will be open at 1 p.m. for Cost: $180. Trail pass required. drinks and appetizers for scheduled playoff games. • Watch the playoff games on our 6x9’ HD Seniors – Learn to Cross Skiflat Friscreen or on one of ourCountry three HD screen days televisions. This four-week learn to ski series is exclu• Enjoy our 5 for $5 appetizer menu and sively for those over age 60 and is taught by happy hour specials during games. Choose PSIAfrom instructor Herb Holden. Join for fellow five different appetizers just $5 seniors to learn how to cross country skiing each (jalapeno poppers, onion rings with in a fun, supportive andchips at an with honey mustard,environment mini corn dogs, unbeatable price! Designed for beginners new queso dip, and hand-rolled baked taquitos). Washor‘em down with $2 Pabst Blue Ribbon. to skiing, downhill skiers/snowboarders wanting to try their hand at XC.

Happy Hour*

Session dates: Enjoy Happy Hour Thursday–Monday from Fridays, Jan. 6–27: 10 –11:30 a.m. 5–6 p.m. Drink specials include $4 Coors Light, $5 Fridays, Feb. 3–24: 10–11:30 a.m. draft beers, $5 house wine and half-priced wings. Fridays, Mar. 3–24: 10–11:30 a.m. Not valid Jan. 1 or Jan. 13-15.

In addition to our standard happy hour

hour all night! Pray for snow! Not valid

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

during lunch or Jan. 13–16.

Open for lunch daily from 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Thursday Night Trivia

Trailside Bar Hours:

Enjoy a pizza from Pizza on the Hill while showing off your brain power on Thursday nights from 6:30-8 p.m. You may even win free pizza!

Friday Night Movie Nights Bring a favorite pillow and blanket to Northwoods Clubhouse, kick your feet up, and enjoy both classic and new movies. Movie nights begin at 6:30 p.m. and the films are rated G and PG.

$10 Pizza Sundays* Every Sunday night, enjoy $10 cheese or pepperoni pizzas. Offer valid on take-out or dine-in pizzas; limit six. Not valid Jan. 1 or

• Open Sunday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. • Extended hours on Friday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m.

Happy Hour* Enjoy $4 selected drafts, $4 house chardonnay or cabernet and a $6 chef's special, valid Sunday–Thursday, 3–4:30 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 4–8 p.m.

Live Music on Saturday Nights Every Saturday night starting on Jan. 7 from 5–8 p.m., we will have live music in the Trailside Bar. Artist schedule to be announced.

Jan. 15.

TD EATS FOOD TRAILER AT SNOWPLAY Winter Schedule & Hours: Open every weekend (Saturday and Sunday): 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Holiday Hours: New Year’s Day: 12–4 p.m.; Jan. 14-16: 11-4 p.m.; Feb. 18–26: Daily, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. All hours of operations are weather permitting. If Snowplay is closed, TD Eats is also closed.

tahoedonner.com |

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

DINING OPTIONS

Mondays: Jan. 30 – Feb. 20: Classic skiing –

FEATURE

DAPHNE HOUGARD

TAKING IN THE SCENERY..

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

Mother and daughter explore the trails at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area.

FEATURE

ONE STEP AT A TIME A SNOWSHOEING ADVENTURE

BY ASHLEY QUADROS

Surrounded by towering pines blanketed in snow and mountains reaching up toward the sky, snowshoeing at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area is truly “walking in a winter wonderland.” One of the best things about snowshoeing is it doesn’t require any type of formal training or experience. That's right, no skiing know-how is required. As long as you can walk, you can snowshoe! Tahoe Donner Cross Country has expanded its single track trail system this year—trails that are designed exclusively for those who want to snowshoe or fat bike. Last year, the resort offered eight trails covering 11.3 kilometers for snowshoeing and fat biking and based on popular demand, this year six more trails have been added, featuring new trails: Bear Cub, Cedar, Jeffrey Pine, Red Fir, Cougar and Logger’s Loop. The 14 trails combined now cover 15 kilometers to explore. After the introduction of fat bikes in the 2015/2016 season, some trails were modified this year to create an even more enjoyable experience. As Chauncey Parker, Tahoe Donner’s winter single track designer, top cross country ski instructor and naturalist, explained it, “You try to lay the line in your first shot and then you find you may have to change it. Many of the routes I walk countless times and just keep walking to determine what changes should be made.” For example, after careful review, Parker redesigned Willow, a single track trail that leads to Red Fir before Sundance Hut. He added switchbacks to create a more gradual uphill climb, making it easier on both bikers and snowshoers. Additionally, some trails were remapped at ski junctions to increase visitor safety and to avoid potential blind spots in an effort to prevent possible skier/biker/snowshoer collision.

Along with trail remapping, Parker was one of the driving forces in the creation of the new single track trails offered this season. “It’s kind of like sculpting art work—and then you get to go play on it,” he said. “It’s fun to put in a trail and see other people have fun on it.” When it came to choosing his favorite trail, he couldn’t pick just one, noting all of the trails stand out for varying reasons. “They all have special features that I really like,” he said. “I honestly couldn’t pick a favorite. They are all unique in their own way.” As an example of this uniqueness, the Bearclaw trail is a local favorite and a must-see. Visitors will know when they’ve reached Bearclaw as they come across the first set of bear claw Chauncey Parker heads out to assess the trail conditions. Photo by Ashley Quadros.

tahoedonner.com |

Right outside the Bearclaw trailhead, bear claw markings can be spotted on a nearby aspen tree. Look for the largest Jeffrey Pine on Jeffrey Pine trail. Photos by Ashley Quadros.

UPCOMING SNOWSHOE TOURS: • • • •

Jan. 7 – Moonlight Snowshoe Tour Feb. 11 – Moonlight Snowshoe Tour Feb. 14 – Valentine’s Day Sunset Tour March 11 – Full Moon Snowshoe Tour

For details on these planned tours, call 530-587-9484 or see tahoedonner.com/ cross-country/events. For private group tour inquiries, call 530-582-9643 or visit tahoedonner.com/ cross-country/groups.

markings on a tree just outside the trailhead. Additionally, trail users will see a grove of aspen trees marked with bear claws on the trail, hence the name, “Bearclaw.” “I try to pick a name characteristic with the trail,” explained Parker, who noted deciding on a trail name is a group effort. With 45 years in the ski industry and having been designing trails since he was a kid, he and others on the cross country team wanted to give visitors an idea of what to expect on some of the trails, starting with the trail name. However, while this was the goal for many trails, it is not inclusive of the entire trail system, but there are a few snowshoe trails that stand out with names that were inspired by wildlife, nature or people. As noted with Bearclaw, visitors will encounter aspens with bear claw markings. On neighboring new trail Bear Cub, a few cubs were spotted one morning on the trail, inspiring the name. Similarly, on the Jeffrey Pine trail, visitors will encounter a majestic Jeffrey Pine that is one of the oldest and largest on the trail system—and hard to miss! (See photo above). Tim’s Trek is another trail with a story behind its name. As one of the oldest snowshoe trails offered at the ski area, Tim’s Trek was actually named after competitive world masters cross country ski racer, Tim Tracy,

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

who skied at Tahoe Donner Cross Country almost every day each winter. When he finally became too old to ski, he transitioned into snowshoeing. At the time, staff had recently created a new snowshoe trail and Tracy was one of the first to utilize it and did so daily. This is inspired staff to name the trail after him. “We all just admired him until the very end,” explained Parker. “He was one of the coolest characters at the cross country center.” Tracy trekked on his own trail into his 80s before he passed. Today, Tim’s Trek is one of the easiest trails for visitors new to the sport to consider exploring, offering a moderately flat 1-kilometer journey to the Moondance warming hut. Along with Tim’s Trek, Parker also recommended beginners give new trail Cougar a try, as another easy 1-kilometer option from Moondance Hut to a lookout at the end of Lion’s Leap ski trail. For those who want a longer, more challenging snowshoe adventure, Parker suggested going up Bearclaw and then continuing onto Bear Cub before switching over to Snowshow and heading all the way up to Hawk’s Tim's Trek is one of the oldest snowshoe trails at Tahoe Donner Cross Country.

Peak, our tallest peak standing at 7,729 feet, where trekkers will be rewarded with stunning views. See Parker’s Counter Clockwise Adventure (next page) for another recommendation. If exploring the trails for the first time on your own isn’t appealing, the ski area also offers private and group guided snowshoe tours that can be customized to meet the needs of the group. Likewise, individuals may also consider joining one of several group guided tours already planned this season, such as the specialty sunset tours or full moon tours at night. The full moon tours in particular are a rare opportunity to explore the trails by moonlight while seeing nature in its most natural state. In general, guided tours are one of the best ways to explore the trails this season. On some tours, guests may learn about the local flora and fauna, and even the history of the area, including the Donner Party. The cross country team offers several guides for tours, including Melissa Licon, who is one of Tahoe Donner’s best snowshoe

TIM'S TREK

TRY PARKER'S COUNTER CLOCKWISE ADVENTURE To get the most out of your next snowshoe adventure and to see the most in a single outing, Parker recommended his favorite counter-clockwise loop.

Path to Travel: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Head north on Tim’s Trek to Willow Take Willow west to Red Fir Continue west on Red Fir (past Sundance Hut) to Bear Cub Travel south down Bear Cub to Cedar Take Cedar east to Jeffery Pine and return back to the center.

This counter-clockwise loop is a great way to experience several trails, with less climbing compared to taking the same route reversed in clockwise direction.

guides and naturalists. Parker is also one of the most experienced guides available and can identify several types of wildlife on tours. “I saw kingfishers this season and two weeks ago, blue herons,” Parker said in mid-December. Kingfishers are small- to medium-sized birds; blue herons are tall wading birds, both of which frequent rivers. “Sometimes you’ll see shorttailed or long-tailed weasels too.” He noted he has never come across anything fearsome— other than the occasional pesky mosquito. So if you don’t mind a few bugs and would enjoy sightseeing and exploring, snowshoeing might be the perfect outdoor sport to try. For those who want to get the most out of this season and all the trails Tahoe Donner Cross Country has to offer, for the first time, specific snowshoe-only season passes are available for $230 a person for public or $170 for members. Whether you decide to buy a season pass to go out every day or join a guided tour or two, before heading out for your next adventure, Parker advises to always check the grooming report to see what trails are open and which routes have been packed. It sometimes takes a few days for the snow to settle enough, and conditions have to be just right to safely pack these trails by snowmobile. Parker also advises to also always check the weather. “You learn the conditions are in charge,” he said. “Take the necessary preparations. Bring sunblock, water, lip balm, snacks, water and dress accordingly.” He noted he often sees skiers out in t-shirts on the trails, and while likely experienced, it’s always better to be over-prepared rather than under-prepared when potentially facing the unexpected in nature.

A sight to see! Keep your eyes peeled for Thor on Walkabout trail. Thor was struck by lightning and still stands today at 122 feet. Photo by Ashley Quadros.

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FEATURE

The Tahoe Expedition Academy's sixth grade visited Tahoe Donner to learn about forestry techniques from Tahoe Donner's own forester, Bill Houdyschell.

EXPLORING TAHOE DONNER'S SHADED FUEL BREAK: SUBMITTED BY TAHOE EXPEDITION ACADEMY’S SIXTH GRADE CREW Imagine the Donner Lake area 200 years ago, before Comstock era logging and wildfire suppression. One could easily stroll through the forest because large Jeffrey pines and frequent low intensity fires reduced the underbrush and cleared deadfall. Beginning in the early 1900s, fires were suppressed, so fuel—in the form of combustible vegetation—built up, allowing for huge crown fires to occur. Bill Houdyschell, Tahoe Donner forester and forestry department manager, is working to restore the natural ecosystem by constructing a shaded fuel break. What is a shaded fuel break? It is a forest management strategy used for mitigating the threat of wildfire in areas where natural fire regimes have been suppressed, leading to a dangerous buildup of combustible vegetation. A fuel break, such as a dirt road, stops fire from spreading. A shaded fuel break performs a similar function, only with the natural forest restored. Recently, Houdyschell met the sixth grade class of the Tahoe Expedition Academy in the southwestern portion of Tahoe Donner, which is susceptible to fire due to prevailing winds and the steep slope leading up from Interstate 80. Thousands of cars traveling on I-80 each day make the surrounding forest even more vulnerable to manmade fire, as was the case with the Donner Ridge Fire. Firefighters were busy with two other large fires when the Donner Ridge Fire broke out on Aug. 20,1960. Winds of 60 to 70 miles per hour spread the flames rapidly to the Nevada state line. In all, the fire burned 45,000 acres, but luckily, did not drop into Euer Valley. Today, between markers 20 and 20A on the popular Glacier Way trail, tall trees are noticeably absent, evidence of the 1960 blaze.

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

From intersection 20, we followed Houdyschell north up Sunrise Bowl trail to 19A. An old grove of fir and scattered western white pine grow along the top of the ridge. Low growing pinemat manzanita had formed patches along the ground. “Minimal underbrush is why these trees survived,” explained Houdyschell. Triangular fire scars and charred hollows along their trunks serve as reminders of the fire back in 1960. These old trees also show signs of other threats such as white pine blister rust. This fungus was accidentally brought here by Europeans and causes branch swelling, infection, and orange blisters. Another major problem is the tiny bark beetle. Its larvae are eating western conifers alive, and our warming temperatures mean more beetles survive the winters. Finally, Sierra Nevada trees have faced drought, making them more vulnerable to diseases. After learning about ailments affecting some of the trees, Houdyschell led us back down to Glacier Way trail and stopped between intersections 20 and 23, along the shaded fuel break. Here 20-year-old Jeffrey pines grow at regular intervals. Jeffrey pines have three-long needles that grow in bunches and are adapted to fire. Their thick bark resists burning and can survive many fires. Older Jeffrey pines lose their lower branches, preventing fire ladders from forming. Houdyschell and his crew have been building the shaded fuel break in several steps. First, foresters removed or cut back manzanita, tobacco brush, and other bushes to 12” or less. Next, they planted native trees, spaced out 10’ by 10’, knowing that some will not survive. As the trees grow, the forestry crew removes lower branches to stop potential fire from spreading into the canopy.

With the help of the Sugar Pine Foundation, the forestry department has planted rust-resistant western white pine in suitable locations. The western white pine needles cluster in bunches of five. Further east, between intersections 24A and 24, the trees are larger and approximately 40 years old, spaced out about 20 feet by 20 feet. This area is healthy and provides a glimpse of what the newer fuel break will resemble in the coming decades. The Tahoe Donner forestry department has cleared 539 acres for reforestation and fuel breaks and reduced fuel in more than 668 additional acres. Fuel breaks and fuel reduction work in conjunction with homeowners meeting defensible space standards. Together, foresters and homeowners can guard against future high intensity wildfire.

Houdyschell, left and above, teaches kids about threats to the forest, including the white pine blister rust fungus, and points out fire scars on an old tree. Photos: Tahoe Expedition Academy.

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Under Casey’s leadership, the Alder Creek Cafe has blossomed into a local’s lunch favorite, known for healthy, organic creations that change seasonally.

JOE CASE Y PR OMOTED TO CHE F OF TA HOE DONNER’ S A L DER CR EE K CA FÉ In November 2015, the Alder Creek Café, a restaurant located within

Recent plans have included a new winter menu that was released

the Alder Creek Adventure Center, opened its doors for the first time

on Friday, Dec. 16. The new menu features returning favorites, such as

with Joe Casey acting as kitchen supervisor. Casey has over 20 years

the smoked trout sandwich and veggie panini, and new creations, like

of experience in the food and beverage industry, including graduating

the pulled pork sandwich and Italian meatball sub. Casey also recently

from the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Calif. and

opened a bakery department within the café and hired Cass Rodriguez,

cooking at many restaurants in the Lake Tahoe and Truckee region,

an award-winning baker who introduced her own recipes and special-

such as Tahoe Donner’s Lodge Restaurant & Pub before helping launch

ties to the café, including cherry white chocolate scones and gluten-free

the Alder Creek Café.

dark chocolate chunk muffins, as well as soups and other unique dishes.

Under Casey’s leadership, the restaurant blossomed into a local’s

Additional plans for the café continue as well. “Our future vision

lunch favorite, known for healthy, organic creations that change

includes offering more to our guests, such as banquets, casual weddings,

seasonally. With a popular menu at every turn and regulars coming

cocktail parties, and holiday events,” said Casey, who noted every occa-

in daily, Casey was promoted this past November to chef of the Alder

sion can be customized from start to finish to create the most memora-

Creek Café.

ble experience for guests.

“It was a huge challenge with a new facility and new staff,” said

To meet their growing demand, the café has also expanded its hours

Casey, in recalling the café opening. “It takes time to learn systems and

to 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily for the winter season with grab-n-go items,

put them in place, but I think the staff we have now is one of our biggest

such as Rodriguez’s homemade muffins, available from 8:30 a.m.-4:30

successes.” Casey explained that Debbie Stock, the café’s front of the

p.m. Additionally, the restaurant offers an après ski menu at Trailside

house supervisor, along with Chris Haun, his second in command in the

bar, also located within the Alder Creek Adventure Center and starting

kitchen, and line cooks, Dora Cabello de Delgado and Juana Garcia, and

on Jan. 7, a free, Saturday night live music series will kick off the New

many others have been a tremendous help this past year.

Year with a new artist featured every week from 5-8 p.m. An artist

Going into his second year, today Casey oversees the entire food and

schedule will be posted online soon.

beverage operation, including managing the kitchen, designing the

“We’re fresh and fun with a friendly atmosphere,” said Casey. “The

menus, overseeing the bar, scheduling employees, cooking, and han-

facility itself is worth coming in for. TVs, couches, shopping, it’s an all-

dling administrative tasks. “Promoting Joe Casey was the next logical

around nice environment just to be in. And as far as the café, there are a

step to take,” said Mike Peters, Tahoe Donner’s food and beverage

lot of different options for different palates.”

director. “Under Joe’s eye, the restaurant exceeded expectations in 2016. We couldn’t have asked for a better first year and I am excited for what Joe has planned for 2017.”

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

To learn more about the Alder Creek Café or to preview menus, visit tahoedonner.com/alder-creek-café.

FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS OFFICE:

WINTER REMINDERS I hope everyone had a happy new year. As winter is here, there are a number of winter reminders on temporary snow protection, snow removal courtesies, securing garbage cans, and Christmas tree recycling. With the snow, some owners start thinking about taking measures for temporary snow protection. Using an approved material such as tempered glass or plexiglas (appropriately framed) to protect your entryways, windows, and other areas is a good idea since lightweight plastic sheeting is not durable and won’t withstand our winter storms. Plywood, properly stained or painted to match your home is also allowed. Please remember that association rules state that all temporary or permanent alterations to your property must be submitted and approved by the Architectural Standards Committee prior to installation. If you need to install temporary protection for snow, please submit your request over the counter at the Architectural Standards Office and it can be approved within one week. Also, please remember that any temporary protection must be removed as soon as it is no longer required (usually by the beginning of May). When snow arrives, the issue of blowing and/or pushing snow onto adjoining properties surfaces. As a reminder, your snow should stay on your property. We often get calls from homeowners stating that their neighbor, or their neighbor’s snow removal service, is blowing or pushing snow onto their lot and sometimes right up against their house. Please, when

you clear your driveway, or have it cleared by a contractor, make sure that your snow is blown or pushed back only onto your own property. Also, please keep in mind that the Town of Truckee has the right to place snow from the streets in the front 20 feet of each lot. Typically, property lines start between 15 to 20 feet from the edge of the asphalt. That means that the Town of Truckee can push and/or blow snow up to 35 feet from the edge of the street. Please also remember to check your garbage can enclosure to be sure that it can be closed securely. Keep in mind that homeowners are responsible for all of their guests or tenants, including bears that make a trash mess or destroy a garbage can enclosure. Please make sure that you, your guests, or tenants close your garbage can enclosure securely each time it is used. The Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal Company is offering Christmas trees curbside recycling in Tahoe Donner on Tuesday, Jan. 17. All trees and branches must be cut into pieces that are a maximum of 3 feet long, and all decorations including tinsel, flocking, lights, stands, and nails must be removed prior. Alternatively, there will be a drop off bin at the Northwoods Clubhouse parking lot for undecorated trees from Monday, Dec. 26 to Thursday, Jan. 19. If you miss that date, put the undecorated tree in your backyard 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. tahoedonner.com |

TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND

TAHOE DONNER GIV ING FUND GRA NTS $5,000 TO LOCA L ENV IRONMENTA L GROUP BY DICK GANDER , TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND

The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is pleased to provide critical funds to purchase a bike pedal-generated speaker for shows and assem-

tion,” said Dick Gander, chair of the Giving

through real experience, especially through a

Fund Operations and Grant Committee.

dramatic presentation.

“SWEP is grateful to the Tahoe Donner

SWEP promotes environmental stewardship

blies put on by local non-profit organization

Giving Fund for assisting us in fulfilling our

by connecting students with their community

Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships

mission to promote stewardship in the Tahoe-

and local environment through watershed

(SWEP). “This unique speaker system allows

Truckee region in a unique and meaning-

education and service learning. It further

SWEP to directly engage students during their

ful manner,” said Missy Mohler, executive

fulfills its mission through collaboration

15 school-wide assemblies about energy in an

director of SWEP, adding that students retain

with local teachers, the school district, and

experiential, engaging, hands-on demonstra-

information 90 percent more successfully

community partners—such as Tahoe Donner Association—to teach about pertinent environmental issues. Operating in the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District (TTUSD) since 1996, SWEP programs engage over 9,000 students annually in kindergarten through grade 12, with an emphasis on service learning. SWEP connects students to their local community through sustainability club outreach. The SWEP-advised high school Envirolution Club performs 15 “Trashion” shows to local schools and community audiences annually, as well as two per year in San Francisco and other locales such as Washington DC and Atlanta, Ga. Club members work to create outfits from otherwise discarded materials with messages advocating for our local community in the area of waste, energy and the environment. These same students become natural mentors to younger students in the area of

Sustainability clubs, such as the high school Envirolution Club, educate the public and provide mentoring opportunities through programs such as their "Trashion" Show, presented at Earth Day festivities. Photos courtesy SWEP.

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

Elementary students planting native plants in SWEP's "Wonders of Water" ("WOW") program.

youth voice and environmental advocacy. From the success of these “Trashion” shows and student advocacy for the environment, there are now nine sustainability clubs at schools within TTUSD, working with local restoration projects and other meaningful environmental projects. SWEP connects students to their local environment through working with native species. SWEP has supported all TTUSD fifth graders for years by bringing them directly into the creek at the UC Sagehen Field Station to collect, observe and learn about the vital role macro-invertebrates play in our fragile stream eco-systems. SWEP’s Trout in the Classroom (TIC) programming has also trained and assisted local teachers for over 18 years in raising native Lahontan cutthroat trout eggs in the classroom for students to help raise, observe and then release into our local streams and lakes. TIC was even featured in an episode of This American Land on PBS. These kinds of programs teach students about the vital role native species play, the life cycle and stewardship. SWEP assists teachers with fun, hands-on science. SWEP reaches over 700 third through fifth grade students annually with winter ecology lessons at the Winter Discovery Center. SWEP also reaches over 4,000 students with science fair assemblies, engaging students with hands-on scientific exploration that emphasizes the scientific method. “SWEP touches thousands of students in our community and this grant is a clear demonstration of our campaign, ‘Tahoe Donner Cares,’” Gander added. The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is chartered by the Tahoe Donner board of directors. All contributions are voluntary tax deductible gifts from Tahoe Donner members and friends. The TDGF is administered through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation. For more information on the TDGF, or to make a contribution, visit tahoedonner.com/giving-fund/. Contact tdgf@tahoedonner.com with questions or to volunteer for the committee.

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BULLITEN BOARD

ARCHITECTUAL STANDARDS COMMITTEE UPDATES COVERAGE CALCULATION POLICY Over the years, the Architectural Standards Committee (ASC) imple-

have been established. As other materials become available, they

mentation and enforcement of the rules on coverage evolved in an unre-

may be added to the appropriate category. It should be noted that the

corded manner to meet changes both in building practices and building

permeability of said materials is not a consideration, unless specifically

materials, as well as constantly changing building codes. Therefore,

identified below.

this fall the ASC decided to review coverage calculation in the context

CATEGORY A (MATERIALS/ELEMENTS THAT ARE NOT COUNTED AS COVERAGE)

of the current effort to update, clarify, and simplify. Coverage calculations are required with any submission where structures or other materials will be covering previously natural ground surface. The ASC established three categories of materials/elements with respect to coverage. 1.

Those items that did not count as coverage.

Those items that had a reduced percentage of coverage.

Those items that counted as 100 percent coverage.

•

Existing native land, plants, or rocks

•

Lawn planted from seed or sod

•

Artificial turf installed over a permeable base layer

•

Planting areas including material used to edge beds

•

Cantilevered roof overhangs (3 feet, 0 inches or less)

•

Gravel below overhangs, not to project more than 1 foot, 0 inches from edge of building eave above

•

The items in these categories are shown in further detail below.

water protection plan. See Category C for other uses of gravel

The main changes in category A from pervious practice are: •

to encourage wider eaves to keep snow from the walls of the

structures (this does not change the requirements to keep the

eaves inside the lot setbacks). •

Excluding artificial turf from coverage to encourage its use over natural grass, which requires water for maintenance.

•

and cobbles

Excluding 3-foot or shorter eaves from coverage calculations

Gravel under eaves or on the property required for water con-

• •

Bark coverage

•

Public agencies installations

CATEGORY B (MATERIALS COUNTED LESS THAN 100 PERCENT) •

In category B, we excluded decks above 9 feet from the ground,

surface area.

CATEGORY C (MATERIALS/ELEMENTS THAT ARE COUNTED AS 100 PERCENT COVERAGE) •

1 to 2 percent in square feet of the allowed coverage number, but much duff covers the gravel.

COVERAGE CALCULATION POLICY The Tahoe Donner Covenants and Restrictions require that coverage footage of the lot within its metes and bounds), shall be 35 percent or less.

existing and any further projects to be implemented on all properties. The ASO will not accept submissions omitting these details. In calculating coverage, three categories of materials and elements

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

•

Decks less than 9 feet, 0 inches above natural grade

•

Pavers of any material employed for walkways or patios

•

Gravel or cobbles other than those used for storm water pro tection as indicated above

(i.e. the square footage of materials placed on a lot divided by the square

plan surface area of all structures and non-natural materials for all

Structures' footprints measured at exterior perimeter of walls or foundation

of this coverage will return to natural appearance over time when the

Submissions to ASO requiring coverage calculation shall include the

Decks more than 9 feet, 0 inches above natural grade measured at their midpoint - counted 1/3 of their horizontal

which is consistent with other agencies in the area. Impact on coverage calculations will be an increase in approximately

Rip-rap, rockery walls, banks, or planting installed to retain grade for environmental protection

trol best management practices (BMPs).

Category C is those items counted at 100 percent coverage.

Gravel and/or cobbles used in an approved BMP or storm

•

Concrete slabs of any kind

•

All other materials regardless of use or permeability.

HOMES ON THE RISE The Architectural Standards Committee did not review any plans during November 2016.

BOARD MEETING RECAP NOVEMBER 12, 2016 I.

Social Media Update: No Action

in Tahoe Donner for a solar garden, reaching out to the Sacramento

Brinn Talbot, director of marketing, presented to the board and to the

Municipal Utility District to better understand their own structure and

membership a summary of comments and activity across all Tahoe

practice for their solar garden, working with the Truckee Public Utility

Donner social media platforms and on NextDoor as an additional way

District, researching different solar firms who may have interest in such

to stay abreast of emerging issues among the membership. The most

a project, researching state and local ordinances and laws regarding

common topics this month were garbage service issues regarding the

solar projects and determining overall membership interest in purchas-

28-foot rule, speeding issues in Tahoe Donner, and California Proposition 64. II.

Approval of Minutes: Approved 5 – 0

The board approved the October 7, 2016 regular meeting minutes. III.

Committee Rosters and Committee Goals: No action

The board reviewed each of the chartered Tahoe Donner committee rosters, as well as progress that has been made towards each committee’s goals for 2016. IV.

Consent Calendar: Approved 5 – 0

The board approved the following items.

ing a percentage of the solar garden. The project was intended to have no fiscal impact on association funds. VIII.

California Proposition 64, Marijuana Legalization:

No action Annie Rosenfeld, director of facilities and risk management, notified the board that while Proposition 64, legalizing recreational use of marijuana in California, passed on Nov. 8, 2016, the Tahoe Donner Association is still a drug-free workplace, and smoking prohibition for all Tahoe Donner common area facilities is still in effect. Regarding private properties in Tahoe Donner, the association’s Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R’s) provide for minimum standards and

•

Downhill Ski Area Maintenance work truck

•

Investment Broker addition (Eaton Vance)

•

Conversion of Architectural Standards Office property files to

digital files

•

Resignation of Jewlez Vaio from the Covenants Committee

•

Appointment of Nick Sonder as a new alternate member to the

IX.

Architectural Standards Committee

The board agreed to create a resolution outlining what types of

Coverage Calculation Policy: No Action

Rod Whitten, chairman of the Architectural Standards Committee, reported that implementation and enforcement of the rules on coverage have evolved in an unrecorded manner to meet changes both in building practices and building materials, as well as constantly changing building codes. Therefore, the Architectural Standards committee has decided to review and modify Coverage in the context of the current effort to update, clarify, and simplify the Rules and Maintenance standards. VI.

Director of Finance and Accounting Report:

Approved 5 – 0 The board approved the 2016 September financials presented by Michael Salmon, director of finance and accounting. VII.

Tahoe Donner Community Solar Share Project: No action

The board of directors decided to create a working group to begin researching solar gardens, and the feasibility of building one in Tahoe Donner. Research would begin with determining an adequate location

behavior expectations of property owners. These standards include (1) noxious activity, and (2) business activity. An article will be published in a future Tahoe Donner news to fully describe what the passing of Proposition 64 means for the Tahoe Donner Association community. Board of Directors Amenity Access Policy: No action

privileges are appropriate for active board members to receive, at no additional cost to the association, in order for the board to perform their duties in order to promote the circulation and visibility of directors within the community to encouraging awareness of the condition of the association and to address membership concerns. No monetary compensation, discounts on food, beverages or retail, or extended privileges to board director family members, guests or emeritus board directors, will be given and/or included in the creation of an official board of directors association amenity access resolution. X.

Goldmine Software: Approved 5 – 0

The board of directors consider approving the replacement of Goldmine CRM software in 2016 with Lama Solution utilizing Replacement Reserve Funds with a not-to-exceed budget of $75,000. XI.

Executive Session Report: No action

Board secretary, Jeff Schwerdtfeger reported that the board met in executive session today to hear two appeal hearings. (Continued on p. 30) tahoedonner.com |

(Continued from p. 29) XII.

XIV.

Nonresident Voting in Truckee: No action

Fire Safety and Forest Health: No action

Approximately 83 percent of the nonresident members of Tahoe Donner

Annie Rosenfeld informed the board and the membership that Tahoe

are unable to participate in Truckee municipal elections related to tax-

Donner’s Forestry department provides numerous services to the

ation or political representation, due to the fact that a person can only

association as a whole, and to the membership specifically. While the

be registered to vote in one county. The board discussed what options

Forestry department manages all vegetation on Tahoe Donner property,

are available to grant nonresident property owners in Tahoe Donner

homeowners are responsible for the maintenance of their own private

the ability to participate in the Town of Truckee municipal elections.

lots. This includes maintenance for fire safety and overall forest health.

Director Brooks and director Schwerdtfeger volunteered to conduct

should members have any concerns about the health of the forest on

research on this topic and report back to the board at the next regularly

their property, and/or meeting fire safety requirements, or if they have

scheduled board meeting.

concerns about surrounding properties, to reach out to the Forestry

XIII.

department for further assistance. Phone: 530-587–9432. Email: for-

Employee Housing: No action

Robb Etnyre, general manager, provided the board with an update on

estry@tahoedonner.com.

the current status of seasonal employee housing of the association. Currently, in addition to the Chalet house, three other additional rental properties have been leased, with the intention of signing three additional leases, all within budget. All immediate neighbors have been contacted and the remaining rental property neighbors will be contacted once additional leases have been signed. Discussion of the Truckee Tahoe Community Foundations regional housing study led to the board requesting this regional housing topic be placed on the December board meeting agenda.

DID YOU KNOW?

Would you like to write a letter to the editor? We are unable to print them in the magazine, but we do have a section on our website to display your letters. Submit to comdep@tahoedonner.com, and we will post them at tahoedonner.com/letters.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

SEASONAL POSITIONS

TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER

DOWNHILL SKI AREA

• Groomer I & II ($12.80-19.35 DOE) • Lead Snowmaker ($14.14-19.35 DOE) • Parking and Scanning Attendant ($10.50-12.28) • Ticket Sellers ($12.55-17.55 DOE) • Lead Ticket Seller ($15.59-21.34 DOE) • Rental Fitters ($11.14-12.28 DOE) • Rental Cashiers ($11.14-12.28 DOE) • Rental Boot Fitter ($10.50-11.57 DOE) • Terrain Park Attendant ($10.50-11.57 DOE) • Ski Patrol I & II ($14.85-21.34 DOE) • Ski Patrol Director ($19.90-27.23 DOE) • Bus Driver – Class B w/passenger endorsement ($15.59-21.34 DOE) • Lead Lift Operator ($13.47-18.43 DOE) • Lift Operators & Attendants ($13.00-15.92 DOE)

DOWNHILL SKI SCHOOL

• Ski & Snowboard Instructor – non-certified ($12.55-15.92 DOE) • Ski & Snowboard Instructor – certified ($14-23.52 DOE)

• Host ($11.60-13.10 DOE)

CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREA

• Snow Removal – part-time ($12.06-14.44 DOE) • Parking Lot Attendant ($10.50-11.57 DOE) • Ski Instructors - Weekends & holidays – certified or non-cert ($12.06-21.34 DOE)

SNOWPLAY

• Attendants ($12.06-14.44 DOE) • Patroller ($13.06-17.55 DOE)

PIZZA ON THE HILL

• Waitstaff ($10.50-11.57 DOE)

LODGE

• Prep Cook/Dishwasher – full-time, experienced, weekends (starts at $12) • Waitstaff ($10.50-11.57 DOE) • Cook ($11.60-13.10 DOE)

ACCOUNTING

• Seasonal Accounting Clerk ($13.06-17.55 DOE)

OPERATIONS

• Custodian I or II ($12.06-15.92 DOE)

MAINTENANCE

• Vehicle Mechanic I ($16.37-22.40 DOE)

YEAR-ROUND POSITIONS WITH BENEFITS ACCOUNTING

• Accounting Technician III – Accounts Receivable/HOA Membership ($18.05-24.70 DOE)

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

• Network Administrator ($19.90-27.23 DOE)

Visit tahoedonner.com/employment for complete job descriptions and application. Tahoe Donner Human Resources Office, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161 | jobs@tahoedonner.com

tahoedonner.com/employment

| Tahoe Donner News | January 2017

Tahoe Donner is an equal opportunity employer, a drug-free workplace and an “at-will” employer.

A SEOUL, SOUTH KORE Bria n visiting

ily and Ted Borromeo wit h children Em gung Palace in Seoul. the Secret Garden of Cha ngdeok

SICILY

Palermo, Sicily Donna and Ralph Blenn visiting Italy. overlooking historic Palermo,

HONOLULU

g Mark and Dana Law rence honeymoonin the in Hawaii in July, 2015. They went to Punchbowl, overlooking Honolulu and Diamond Head.

NORMANDYe at Normandy France on

a Ston St ua rt and Ba rbar l experience for 16. Very emotiona Memoria l Day 20 ags were fly ing r the vetera ns! Fl all but specia lly fo was placed at ay ing as a w reat h And music was pl onument. the base of the m

Email your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where in the Worldâ&#x20AC;? photos to: comdep@tahoedonner.com. Please submit only .jpeg files of 300 dpi or higher for printing. Photos must include a copy of TD News. 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. tahoedonner.com |

PARIS, FRANCE

Pat Guerra in front of the bell towers of Notre Dame in July.

GENTINA BUENOS AIRES, ARest avenue in the world—

g the wid April and Rob Filer overlookin great et wit h a lovely combination of Avenida de 9 Julio—a busy stre edible history. food, welcoming people and incr

YOSEMITE Mary and Fred Zapponi at Yosemite High Sierra Camps.

MALAPASCUA ISLAND, PHILIPPINES

Walt and Pat Samuelson in front of Thre sher Shark Divers during our scuba diving week in June.

Alison Elder Partners with Engel & Völkers

We have some very exciting news to share with you! On December 1, 2016, Elder Group Tahoe Real Estate became an equity partner with the prestigious, international real estate

bring each of our clients who trust their real estate transactions with Elder Group Tahoe an unparalleled advantage when buying and selling property with our Engel & Volkers affiliation.

firm of Engel & Völkers. Engel & Völkers is the worldwide leader

We will continue to use our deep-seated local knowledge

in the sale and representation of second homes and high-end

and regional presence, extensive industry network and

resort markets.

relationships, unparalleled concierge-focused service, and

We are honored to present our new partnership as Engel & Völkers | Elder Group Tahoe. As one Tahoe based team, we now share

significant advertising and marketing budgets to achieve your real estate goals.

proprietary technologies which leverage the full power of the

Collectively, with deep, local market insight, Bay Area market

Engel & Volkers network for the clients we serve within the region,

expertise, and powerful exposure to the finest tools and

throughout the greater Bay Area, nationally and internationally.

advertising venues, as a part of Engel & Volkers, I look forward

Our professional Elder Group Tahoe staff that you have come to

to providing our award winning success on your behalf.

know and trust, as well as our location in our Truckee, California

Selling or purchasing Tahoe Donner property? Feel free to

community remains the same. I am personally very excited to

contact me any time!

ELDER GROUP TAHOE

Alison Elder

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

PARK CIT Y | L AKE TAHOE | NEWPORT BEACH | SAN FR ANCISCO | L AGUNA BEACH | ST. GEORGE ©2016 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principals of the Fair Housing Act. If your property is currently represented by a real estate broker, this is not an attempt to solicit your listing. CA BRE License #01399851

12/22/16 2:14 PM

11228 Bolzano Road

Bedrooms: 3, Baths: 2, Garage: 2, Sq. Ft.: 1,456

11773 Rhineland Avenue

Bedrooms: 3, Baths: 2.5, Garage: 2, Sq. Ft.: 2,478

TDNews_COVER_January_2017.indd 1