Tahoe Donner News – May 2015

ANNUAL R E P O R T S E E I N S E R T A F T E R PAG E 1 6

MAY 2015 tahoedonner.com |

1

2

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

ANNUAL R E P O R T

AFTER P16

NEW ALDER CREEK ADVENTURE CENTER ARCHITECTURAL RENDERING

$6.1 MILLION IN CAPITAL FUNDS EXPENDITURES DEPARTMENTS TAKE NOTE Reinvesting previously accumulated funds of the association. Refer to the capital discussion starting on page 8 for full details.

SNOWMAKING: SOUND

$3.8

02

04

GM’s Report Decision making at Tahoe Donner

Audit Results Independent auditor results now available

03

04

Monthly Calendar

Photo Contest We’re launching a new contest for 2015

FOR NEW ALDER CREEK lyzed in preparation for the snowmaking ADVENTURE CENTER BUILDING

In-depth data has been collected and ana-

Investment in replacing 40+ year old Cross Country & Equestrian operations building M I See L Lmore I O sound N findings. project.

$2.0

IN REPLACEMENT RESERVE A look at what’s FUND EXPENDITUREScoming up in May

P06

MILLION

Over 200 reserve component projects, preserving and protecting existing assets of the association

10

08

Let’s Get Together Get ready for summer!

Chamber Awards Tahoe Donner wins prestigious award

20

09

OPERATING FUND

$350,000 OR 6% FAVORABLE

NET OPERATING RESULTS IN OPERATING FUND

WATER EFFICIENCY

$ 7.7 million in revenues, UNDER BUDGET $1,941,000 OR 20% See how Tahoe Donner Golf Course is $12.8 million in costs, UNDER BUDGET $2,291,000 OR 15% responding to the statewide drought

A SUCCESSFUL AGGRESSIVE LOSS RECOVERY PLAN EXECUTED IN RESPONSE TO DROUGHT-INDUCED REVENUE Golf Specials; Gear SHORTFALL Election News

with conservation and efficiency efforts.

ANNUAL ASSESSMENT PER OWNER (BY FUND) P18 2014

$842

2013

2012

$478 $434

$791 $695

2011

$400

$695

2010

$360

$695 HONORING POLICE

$348

$695law enforcement This month, we honor

$334

2009 2008

officers during National Police Week.$330 $660

2007

Read $619 about your neighbors. $318 $

$200

OPERATING

$400

$30

$600

REPLACEMENT RESERVE

$30

$250

$25

$17 $143

$1000

$1375

$1330

$1300

$232

$25 $146

$1600

$1505

$250

$250

$25

$22 $138

$800

P22

$30

$250

$1200

$1150

$1097

$1200

NEW MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

$1400

$1600

DEVELOPMENT

Don’t miss out on our spring specials!

Election packets to arrive in the mail

animal welfare

the 2014-2015 contest

ANNUAL 26 25 ASSESSMENT PER Giving Fund Snowman Contest OWNER (BY FUND) Environment and See the winners of OPERATING FUND CAGR 4.5% CAPITAL FUNDS CAGR 6.8% 29 28 TOTAL ASSESSMENT CAGR 5.5%

From ASO Yard Waste Reminders for the News from the building season Town Accumulating funds over time to of Truckee

COMPOUNDED ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR), 2007 TO 2014

address the aging infrastructure needs of 32your association, consistent 30with the General Plan, while striving to Where in the World California Drought optimize the operating fund portion is TD News?

An update from of your assessment.

TD News travels the world

the Truckee Donner PUD

Tahoe Donner 2014 Annual Report |

TDNews_ANNUALREPORT_May2015.indd 1

1

4/23/15 2:53 PM

VOL. 16, NO. 05

FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER’S DESK

MAY 2015

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Jim Stang, jcstang@sbcglobal.net

Vice President

Tom Johns, btjtd@aol.com

Treasurer

Steve Miller, smiller@tahoedonner.com

DECISION MAKING AND TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION: WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY

Secretary

Ron Wulff, rwulff@sbcglobal.net

Director

Courtney Murrell, 2courtneymurrell@gmail.com

Board of Directors

board@tahoedonner.com

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

Email

comdep@tahoedonner.com

Advertising Sales Creative Concepts Media + Marketing is the exclusive advertising representative.

Phone 530-582-4100.

Publishing Information Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an infringement of that service mark right and is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Tahoe Donner Association or its board of directors of the products, services, or views contained therein.

Tahoe Donner News (ISSN 1550-6061) is the official monthly publication of Tahoe Donner Association, which is located at 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161.

Each membership parcel receives one subscription to a domestic address. Additional subscriptions are available at the cost of $25 each. Cost to produce and distribute this publication is offset by advertising revenues.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and additional mailing offices. Member letters to Tahoe Donner are published in the Members section of tahoedonner.com, where publishing guidelines are available.

As a large-scale homeowner organization, Tahoe Donner Association is registered in the state of California as a California Mutual Benefit Corporation, and with the IRS as a 501(c)4 social welfare organization. With a budget of over $21 million, our association is regulated by both federal and state regulations which cross a diverse array of areas. It also has a set of governing documents (covenants and restrictions, articles of incorporation, and bylaws) which, along with the California Corporations Code and the Davis-Stirling Act, provide for very specific governance of the association, much like all corporations in California.

The board of directors is the governing and elected authority for the association, and as the general manager, I serve as their principal employee and agent who employs and works with our great staff to deliver a wide variety of services to the membership in keeping with our strategic plan. The board’s specific authority is clearly defined in our association’s governing documents. Corporate responsibility, known as fiduciary duty, requires them to act in the best interest of the association and the adherence to the reasonable business judgment rule.

Board members are elected annually by the membership on staggered terms of three years, with required voting quorums, which in recent years is about 25 percent of the 6,471 owners. With each annual election, articles are published in the monthly magazine, email blasts are sent to the owners, and hard ballot mailings are sent to all eligible owners. Yet, in spite of these communication efforts, we only receive roughly 25 percent membership participation rates. However, there are two other

activities that owners take part in annually that has a higher turnout of involvement by the entire ownership interest: paying the annual assessment and purchasing the recreation fee. Approximately 98.5 percent of our owners pay their annual assessment on a timely basis, which is significantly high compared to industry standards. And, just over 60 percent of Tahoe Donner owners purchase their optional recreation fee. Even the recently popular Nextdoor.com, a private social networking service for specific neighborhoods, indicated approximately 565 participants from Tahoe Donner. In recent years, our post-season operational and general plan surveys ranged in participation between 200-1,300 members (6,471 owners, 25,000 members), but even these small data points help shape board and management decision making. The Town of Truckee recently ran an online survey regarding the 96-gallon yard waste program for the entire Town of Truckee. The Town’s survey resulted in more than 1,000 responses with just over 500 participants from the Tahoe Donner subdivision. Certainly, no magic survey solution on every major or minor issue of the association has produced anything close to a majority of owner participation. As a result, a governance model has been set up for corporations so they can take appropriate and timely action for the corporation.

However, past results will not deter us from continuing to seek greater membership awareness of issues and participation in our established governance structure.

The annual growth rate of the association and the annual assessment has been a subject (Continued on p. 4)

May

FRIDAY, MAY 1

FOR ADDITIONAL MAY EVENTS SEE

LET’S GET TOGETHER ON PAGE 10 2015-2016 Recreation Fee Due See tahoedonner.com/member-services or call 530-587-9400, ext. 0, for more information.

AMENITY OPENINGS IN MAY DRIVING RANGE

CURRENTLY OPEN | SEE PAGE 10

SATURDAY, MAY 2 AND MAY 9

TENNIS CENTER

SATURDAY, MAY 2 | SEE PAGE 12

T-9 GRILL

FRIDAY, MAY 15 | SEE PAGE 16

GOLF COURSE

Golf Course Volunteer Cleanup Days It’s a great day to help out and have fun with fellow golfers. See p. 15.

MONDAY, MAY 4

The Lodge Restaurant & Pub Reopens Following renovations, The Lodge will reopen.

Happy Hour is still offered daily! See p. 16.

FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 8 - 9

FRIDAY, MAY 15 | SEE PAGE 10

BEACH CLUB MARINA FRIDAY, MAY 22 | SEE PAGE 11

TROUT CREEK REC POOL SATURDAY, MAY 30 | SEE PAGE 11

SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION STILL OPEN By now you should have received your copy of the Summer Fun Guide in the mail. If not, pick up a copy from any amenity and start planning for a summer of fun! Registration is still open for many programs, but filling fast!

SAIL•HIKE•PA

DDLE•SWIM•R

IDE•SWING•

GOLF•EXPLO

RE

ALL EVENTS ARE DEPENDENT ON CONDITIONS. PLEASE CHECK TAHOEDONNER.COM OR CALL 530-587-9400 FOR UPDATES. SATURDAY, MAY 16

THROUGHOUT MAY

Mother’s Day Weekend

Free Chilean Wine Tasting

Give mom the night off and treat her to a special

Normally only available by the bottle for $36,

Lifeguard Training, Refresher Courses, and CPR/AED Classes

dinner at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub; bring

you can come taste our 2011 Ritual Pinot Noir

Check our schedule of lifeguard and safety

the kids for fun family activities! See p. 16.

for free; bottles offered at $20. See p. 16.

courses and get ready for summer. See p. 12. tahoedonner.com |

3

(Continued from p. 2) of some feedback lately. As presented in the

the development of strategic plans and goals,

November 2014 issue of Tahoe Donner News,

and soliciting membership feedback, are each

our director of finance and accounting dis-

guided by prescribed stipulations. Specific to

closely adheres to proper guidelines from the

cussed the 2015 annual assessment and the

the annual assessment calculation, there are a

state and from our governing documents. Over-

three primary drivers behind the 2015 increase:

few detailed processes that the association uti-

seeing all of this is the ultimate responsibility

1. $48 for replacement reserve funding

lizes to make decisions that impact the assess-

of the board of directors — one which they take

2. $53 for the state of California increase in

ment. The annual budget process includes com-

very seriously. Over the next several months

prehensive finance committee meetings, and

you will see more membership engagement

3. $98 for drought-induced reduction in

multiple board meetings to review and discuss

efforts to solicit your valuable feedback, while

operation revenue. This loss in revenue is due

every aspect of the annual budget, starting in

also providing more information on future

mostly to the Downhill Ski Area’s shortfall from

late August — and continuing through Octo-

plans and decisions once made that impact the

the past three years, and to which the installa-

ber. All meetings open to the membership, and

membership. Already, you can find a new link

tion of snowmaking equipment will curtail the

meeting minutes and overviews are published

at the top of the Tahoe Donner website titled

loss of future revenues.

to the membership monthly.

“Feedback.” This link directs members to our

worker’s compensation insurance, and

Tahoe Donner was not developed as a retire-

The major influencing factor of capital invest-

not proposed to increase.

Please be assured that your association

webpage which will contain all our active mem-

ment community, or as a fixed-income housing

ment annually is the 2030 General Plan, which

bership surveys along with options to provide

development. From its inception, it has been an

is currently being updated by the General Plan

feedback on any topic.

outdoor recreation community with well-doc-

Committee. There are numerous opportunities

umented plans, goals, and regulations covering

for membership input during this process. With

nities and trail system are looking great for your

its activities. Therefore, the elected board of

regard to development projects in the General

summer fun.

directors, staff, and our volunteer committees

Plan, these are funded with the development

utilize several major documents to guide their

fund, which is included in the annual assess-

decision-making process. The annual budget

ment. The development fund portion of the

process, the actual performance of amenities,

assessment has not gone up since 2011, and is

Summer is rapidly approaching and the ame-

Lastly, don’t forget to review the enclosed 2014 annual report!

ROBB ETNYRE | GENERAL MANAGER

2014 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS WITH INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT NOW AVAILABLE Tahoe Donner Association’s financial statements for 2014 recently received a ‘no-findings’ audit report by an independent auditing firm.

The audit found no internal control weaknesses, nor management control issues. Further, there were no auditor adjustments to the management-prepared financial statements.

Gilbert Associates, Inc. (CPAs and advisors, based in Sacramento) released an unmodified opinion on the financial statements. An opinion is said to be unmodified when the auditor concludes that the financial statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework.

The 2014 Financial Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report is included in the Annual Report, found after page 16 of this issue, or can be viewed online at tahoedonner.com/Members/Financials/Reports.

4

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

GET PUBLISHED! Back by popular demand, we’re bringing the photo contest back for Tahoe Donner members! Grab your camera or go through your photo archives and choose your best images.

For contest guidelines and instructions on how to enter, see tahoedonner.com/photo-contest.

Questions? Email comdep@tahoedonner.com. Start snapping!

GO TO CAMP facebook.com/tahoedonner twitter.com/tahoedonner instagram.com/tahoedonnerassociation/ TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS Member Communications (area code 530) Member Services

587-9400

info@tahoedonner.com

General Manager

587-9431

gm@tahoedonner.com

Contact Member Services to be transferred to other administrative departments.

Amenities Alder Creek Campground 587-9462

campground@tahoedonner.com

Beach Club Marina

marina@tahoedonner.com

587-9460

BOOK BY APRIL 30 TH

AND SAVE UP TO $100!

SECURE your spot.

WOODWARDTAHOE.com

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

xcski@tahoedonner.com

Downhill Ski Area

587-9444

ski@tahoedonner.com

Equestrian Center

587-9470

Dickson Realty Logo equestrian@tahoedonner.com

Forestry 587-9432 forestry@tahoedonner.com Golf Course

587-9443

golf@tahoedonner.com

The Lodge

587-9455

lodge@tahoedonner.com

Pizza On The Hill

582-9669

pizza@tahoedonner.com

Recreation Info Hut

587-9413

troutcreek@tahoedonner.com

Tennis Center

587-9474

tennis@tahoedonner.com

Trails 582-9672 trails@tahoedonner.com Corporate Blue Logo: Trout Creek Rec. Center

587-9437

Can be used on white or light photo troutcreek@tahoedonner.com background

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

alandjosi@gmail.com

Elections, Bonnie Watkins

bwatkins@tahoedonner.com

Finance, Jeff Bonzon

jdbonzon@yahoo.com

Unacceptable Uses of Dickson Realty Logo

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

tdgf@tahoedonner.com

Giving Fund Co-Chair, Dick Gander

tdgf@tahoedonner.com

Tahoe Donner Association Chartered Club Presidents

White Logo:

Can be used on Corporate Blue Dinny backgroundEvans or dark photo backHIGH ALTITUDE HOMES

Realtor® ground

BRE #01126819

Direct

530.414.1420 Megan Evans Realtor®

BRE #01384362

Direct

530.448.9434

Bridge Club, Robin Reese

rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Friends of TD Trails, B.R. Levine

tdtrails@gmail.com

Rowing Club, Dot Mace

dotmace@me.com

Website

Senior Alpine Ski, Dave Wallace

dwallace0717@gmail.com

HighAltitudeHomes.com

Tennis, John McGregor

jmpj1964@gmail.com.

9-Holers, Marianne Bowers

mariannebowers@hotmail.com Dickson Realty Tagline

Men’s Golf, Bob Moore

bob4moore@aol.com

Women’s Golf, Fran Macomber

franmacomber@aol.com

Hiking Club, Robin Reese

rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Quilt Club, Linda Brush

sewlinda@aol.com

Junior Golf Club, Jean Lai

jslai@comcast.net Can be used on white or light photo

TD 4-Wheelers Club, Bill Ratcliff

Equestrian Club, Susan Terrell

Corporate Blue Logo:

td4wheelers@gmail.com background Corporate Blue Logo terrellsf@earthlink.net

If you can dream it up, you can team it up.

Dinny

Megan

Raised in the business and partnering in the business, the tradition continues.

Unlike the weather, one thing you can rely on from High Altitude Homes is our service.

Dinny & Megan

White Logo: - Richie Norton Blue Can be used on Corporate background or dark photo background with White Logo

tahoedonner.com |

5

Snowmaking And sound

FEATURE

BY MICHAEL SULLIVAN | GENERAL PLAN COMMITTEE

Sound can be defined as beautiful music or a disturbing noise; or

more it is deflected and the louder

The silent Polecat that we plan to

particular distance and then move

the sound.

use at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski

twice as far from the source, the

area uses both of these strategies

sound intensity will be one-fourth

more technically, a traveling pres-

In the world of snowmaking

sure wave. Perception is one of the

equipment, the generation of

and thus produces half the sound

as loud. Four times as far away, it

four components of sound along

sound can be reduced in two ways:

intensity of the regular Polecat (10

will be one-sixteenth as loud, and

with generation, transmission and

Larger fans can push air with-

decibels less sound pressure).

so forth. Since the snowmaking

reception.

out turning as fast as a small fan,

Transmission - The decrease

Generation: Sound begins with

guns are about 300 feet apart, if

thus producing sound of a lower

of sound intensity with distance

the first gun is 150 feet away from

a vibrating object that pushes a

pitch; and the device can be made

can be accurately predicted by

a structure, the second gun will be

fluid medium such as air. Like

of softer materials that offer less

the inverse square equation. In

450 feet away and thus will sound

ripples on the surface of a pond

resistance to deflection, thus re-

simple terms, if you measure the

one-ninth as loud as the first one.

from a dropped stone, waves of

ducing the intensity of the sound.

sound intensity in decibels at a

This simple model, however, is

compressed air travel outward in all directions, slowly getting vibrating object could be the string the vibration is a function of the mass and stiffness of the object and may be varied by tightening or loosening, as when the guitar string is tuned. Stiffening results in a more rapid vibration that is called higher “pitch,� or higher frequency.

The intensity of the sound is

SOUND LEVEL (dB)

of a guitar or the head of a drum;

THRESHOLD OF PAIN

SOUND INTENSITY (W/m2)

weaker the longer they travel. The

MUSIC SPEECH

THRESHOLD OF AUDIBILITY

related to the amount of deflection of the vibrating object. The harder you hit the head of a drum, the

6

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

20

50

100

200

500

1000

2000

FREQUENCY (Hz)

5000 10000 20000

Living and working in Tahoe Donner since 1990

DAVID WRIGHT, Realtor TEXT, EMAIL or CALL ME

There are approximately 68 homes, 18 condos and 41 lots on the market in Tahoe Donner.

Contact me for details on any of them, or if you would like to know where your property fits into this market.

Also for my sales summary for TD homes, condos and lots going back to 2006.

No obligation, no scripted responses, STRAIGHTFORWARD and COURTEOUS service.

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

complicated by two factors: reflection and reverberation. Reflection is often

100

called an echo. The sound pressure wave

SOUND INTENSITY VS DISTANCE FROM SOURCE IN FEET

bounces off some solid object and the reflected wave adds to the original wave from the source. Since the Downhill Ski

88

Area is somewhat bowl-shaped, reflec-

84

measurements will be made by acoustic professionals and a map of reflections will allow us to compensate for echoes with the placement of the snow guns.

Reverberations occur when a solid object is pushed on by the sound wave

DECIBELS (dB)

tions could occur. For this reason, sound

and it begins to vibrate at the same frequency, thus adding to the sound. This is often a consideration in concert halls but is unlikely to occur at the ski hill. None-

78 72 68

67 62

61

60 54

57 53 48

theless, if it occurs, the acoustic measurements will discover it and mitigation such as blanketing can prevent it.

Reception - The human ear does not

DISTANCE FROM SOURCE IN FEET

detect — or hear — all sounds. The term “hertz” refers to the measure of vibration in

to hear sounds of widely varying intensities,

up to conquer the pass, you will still hear the

cycles, or vibrations per second. Frequencies

although again, there is a range below which

faint ding of your cell phone telling you that

below 20 hertz and above 20,000 hertz are not

we are unable to detect. At the high end of the

you have a text message. Those two sounds are

heard by most people. Dogs are able to hear

intensity range, sound can cause pain, for in-

thousands of times apart in sound intensity.

much higher pitches than humans; for example

stance if one stands directly behind a jet engine.

the dog whistle that we cannot hear but our

Continued exposure to very loud sound will

some may be “turn that thing off” to another,

dog can. As we get older, our ears become

lower the ability of the ear to detect sound.

but the simplest difference in perception is

Perception - What’s music to the ears to

less sensitive, particularly to the higher pitch

Interestingly, the human ear can hear mul-

between constant sounds and intermittent

sounds. This reduction is more prominent in

tiple sounds of widely varying intensities at the

sounds. At the Downhill Ski Area, the most

men than women.

same time. For instance, if you are at the train

noticeable sound is the back-up alarm on the

crossing in Truckee as five locomotives wind

snow groomer. It is designed to attract atten(Continued on page 8)

Evolution has blessed us with the ability

tahoedonner.com |

7

(SNOWMAKING, continued from page 7) tion by being high-intensity, high-pitch and intermittent and it is very effective. Snow guns produce a low-pitch continuous sound and the silent Polecat is low-intensity.

Our analysis of snowmaking at Tahoe

TAHOE DONNER WINS 2014 BEST PLACE TO WORK AWARD The North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce/CVB/Resort Association

Donner Downhill Ski Area has been based on facts and data. The emotional response to the unknown and to change is understandable, but our rational selves have a voice as well and we have tried to provide the raw material for a reasonable evaluation. We believe that the sounds produced by a string of silent Polecats will not be an irritation to the neighbors of

recently awarded Tahoe Donner Association as the 2014 Best Place to Work, an

the ski hill, as they will be no louder than the

honor presented at the 61st Annual Community Awards dinner on March 26,

normal background noise from the wind, the

2015. The community awards are an opportunity to showcase businesses, volun-

freeway and the train and even quieter than

teers and employees who went above and beyond in 2014.

rain on a metal roof.

The North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce/CVB/Resort Association collected nominations this past February for categories including best place to work, hospitality, businesses of the year, nonprofit of the year and more. A total of 11 awards were presented to businesses or individuals based on nominations received.

The selection community chose Tahoe Donner as Best Place to Work 2014 for creating a positive and fun work environment that encourages exceptional customer service. In their press release, Tahoe Donner was regarded as having “shown an extraordinary commitment to its employees including an employee service incentive program.” Items highlighted in the nomination included: • Awarding two employees every month as Employee of the Month with a $150 bonus check, a $50 gift card, an award certificate, and a tote bag.

• Reimbursing all full-time employees who were furloughed one week in 2014 for their time off.

• Providing all exemplary employees with wooden nickels worth $5 each to be redeemed for cash, gift cards or to be used at Tahoe Donner amenities.

“We are honored to win this award,” said Mary Peterson, director of human resources. “We do everything in our power to ensure our employees enjoy working at Tahoe Donner because without them, Tahoe Donner wouldn’t be what it is today—the best place to work!”

In addition to the items indicated, Tahoe Donner gives employees seasonal and annual awards, free access to amenities, additional guest passes for fulltime, year-round employees, discounts on food and merchandise, mileage reimbursement and benefit packages.

To learn more about career opportunities at Tahoe Donner, visit tahoedonner. com/employment.

8

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

Chase painting

2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION PLACE YOUR VOTE You will receive election materials for this year’s board of directors election approxi-

declare that candidate elected and the director

cast your vote for the candidate you feel will

election concluded.)

best represent you on the board. If you have

mately the third week in May. One director position is open for election. The election materials include voting instructions and each candidate’s statement. These statements are the sole work of their authors (the association has not edited them in any way); their purpose is to give owners some insight into the perspectives of the individual candidates.

Please read the election materials carefully.

Over the years, California law has made association elections more technical, and as speci-

questions, contact the elections committee (electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com) or Bonnie Watkins at 530-587-9431.

fied in our director election materials, specific detailed procedures must be followed to be in

Don’t forget to sign the outer envelope!

compliance with these laws and for your vote to be counted. To cast your ballot, you must seal the ballot in one envelope, which is then

For more information, plan to attend Can-

sealed in another envelope. The outer envelope

didates’ Night on Saturday, June 6, from 7 - 9

must bear specific information about you, the

p.m. at the Northwoods Clubhouse. This is an

voter (name and property designation) and

opportunity to hear candidates present their

your signature. PLEASE REMEMBER TO

positions and views for the future of Tahoe

SIGN THE OUTER ENVELOPE WHERE

Donner and for members to ask the candidates

INDICATED. Likewise, please do not make

questions. (Note: as provided by the amended

extraneous marks on the ballot itself. If these

restated bylaws, if one, but no more than one,

steps are not followed exactly, according to

eligible candidate submits a timely application

California law, the ballot is disqualified.

for this election, the board of directors will

Please participate in these elections and

except io nal qu a l i ty, a l l u n d er on e ro o f. new

House Painting

House Staining

SnowTech snow removal clients receive 10% off (up to $300) on all summer home services.

Deck Restoration

Driveway Sealing

Carpet Care

800.452.3060 CSLB #825998 www.SNOWTECH.net 17356 Nothwoods Blvd.

tahoedonner.com |

9

O TA H

MEM T TD MEE

B

SS PU

B

BLIC AM

EN

I

ARE INTE

RE

ALD

GOL

F CO PU

BLIC AM

E URS

CAM

P

PU

EK

UN GRO BLIC AM

EN

TY

O OE D TA H

R NNE

RE ER C

TY

SH

ST

S

U A CL N I O J

CRO

NER

NT CO U TY

ERS

N E DO

EN

I

Opening Day: Tahoe Donner Golf Course opens for the season on May 15*

Can you feel it? The 2015 golf season is here at Tahoe Donner!

TheO N N OE D

ER

TICS A golf course is shaping up to be the best it’s ever been! Join us for openU AQ AT

TA H

B E the H E E R practicing your swing, ing day on May 15, and if you wantOto AT T H E N Nstart

OE D

NT

H E TAtokens E Vavailable range is already open. Golf at Trout Creek RecreA Lare

ECI

S P located adjacent to the driving range, until ation Center, conveniently the pro shop opens on May 15.

Be sure to check out our spring specials to save some money. The

Drive and Dine and Locals’ Specials are in place through June 25, and the Father’s Day Special until June 21. See page 21 for more details.

RANGE HOURS: THROUGH MAY 14, THE RANGE IS OPEN DAILY FROM 9 A.M. – 4 P.M. WHEN THE COURSE OPENS FOR SUMMER ON MAY 15, THE RANGE WILL BE OPEN FROM 7 A.M. – 7 P.M. WITH EXTENDED TIME AND MORNING HOURS STARTING ON JUNE 22.

COURSE HOURS: STARTING MAY 15, THE COURSE IS OPEN DAILY FROM 7 A.M. – 7 PM. THROUGH MID-OCTOBER.

Golf food and beverage The T-9 Grill and the Pub will be open for food and beverage as of May 15, and don’t forget to take advantage of Golfers’ Happy Hour starting May 17. See page 16 for The Lodge food and beverage details.

Retail selections We’ve been working hard during the off-season to get all of the latest and greatest products. The pro shop will have a fresh new feel and look thanks to our efforts, not to mention new carpet throughout and a fresh coat of paint. See page 20 to read more about some of our new retail items.

Here’s to an exciting 2015 golf season!

ROB WEIZER | HEAD GOLF PRO

10

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

*conditions permitting

I

NER

PU

A ARE SKI L L I H EN

I

NIS TEN TER E N Day: May 22 C Opening

I V AT E A M

ON

EK CRE R T U TRO CENTE REC

BLIC AM

EN

A

I

EK CRE R T U TRO CENTE REC

Y

B C LU H C BEA ARINA M PR

P & INFORM

PR

I VAT E A M

EN

? C LURB H C E N NA B E A OAERDION ES MHTroutS ECreek R V I CRecreation Pool TA

PR

EN

I VAT E A M

EN

Y

BLIC AM

EL

Y PLA

Y

PU

W

NER

IT

DON HOE

N D OW

SNO

DON

Y

OE TA H

TI

I

ER ER S

IT

EN

B MEM H

IT

BLIC AM

TA

T

TY

PU

PLA

TY

W SNO

TY

TA H

IT

PR

H

I V AT E A M

EL

S

I

PR

I

NT

EN

EV RAMS &

E

BLIC AM

TY

EN

EN

OG

EV RAMS &

E

PR

N

OG

Y

E I VAT E A M

PR

I VAT E A M

EN

PR

I VAT E A M EN I V AT E A M

Y

E LS & R

EN

IR

S

N TA

IT

IR

PR

P

A

RE

IT

S

Y

PR

NT

I

IT

EN

Y

BLIC AM

IT

PU

S

TY

BLIC AM

A

IT

I VAT E A M

PU

PU

P & INFORM

TY

PR

EN

ON

EN

Y

I VAT E A M

TI

IT

Y

R NIS M B E Pool opens: Saturday, May 30 TO N ED EOlimited MAY 30 – FRIDAY, JUNE 12 AY and drinks NSATURDAY, AH vice, excluding the snack bar, which will have TC ER P Lsnacks R W E DON O N N E N R N O O | 3 - 7 P.M. S for opening weekend, IO T Eweather is favorable for the short IfNthe TA H we ATWEEKDAYS O E Dterm.

E TA H R NN NCEER A C I E WEEKENDS | 10 A.M. - 7 P.M. R will E open grill for more R S T the R E A service options. S NER E DO DON E Q U TA H O L S K I A D N O HOE A L AndNdon’t forget, in addition to offering rentals for kayaks, Hobie O T I T H K IO A W E E H NEW! Family Fitness Fusion E W R T O and Getaway boats, R boats, DWave CCR R L TEAmy N Opedal UR E is a parent and baby fitness Owith P O O paddleboards, windsurfers T Family D Fitness Fusion Renn S R T E O C N R and more, we also offer lessons and wonderful programs all summer, O E C N W N E O designed for newborns up until crawling. Exercising with your R T Hclass OE D LU LB CO R K S historical kayak tours and windsurfing clinics. ExploreNallO R including TA H O H O C P W baby is not only a great way to bond, but a way to achieve a full body BEA ARINA B I K E offerings at tahoedonner.com/beach-club. ONNER M workout. In this fun and motivating class, we will blend strength, OE D SK S WILL BE OPEN TA H22 THE MARINA HOURS: STARTING MAY MARINA IR O N N W cardio, and yoga exercises and poses. Our little ones will participate in DAILY FROM 7 A.M. - 9 P.M. THROUGH E R DAY WEEKEND. B I KTEE NLABOR T some of the exercises as they are additional weight. For those that come C E (WEATHER PERMITTING) ER RENTAL 7 A.M. – 5 P.M. DAILY O N NHOURS: RS NE O E D O NR D H R with a sleeping baby, then it is time just for you. Please bring a carrier if A BETWEEN MAY 22, 2015 – SEPT. 7, 2015.

ALL RENTALS MUST BE T DA NTE O EU EBY HG C TA E RETURNED 6 P.M. N F you have one.

L I E SBT R I A H E R NNE E AT T H E GRILL HOURS: 11 A.M. – 6 P.M., DAILY E Q U MARINA E D O $14O N COST: MEMBERS: $10,TGUESTS: I AHO T REA NOTE: AFTER LABOR DAY, FALL HOURS WILL GO INTO EFFECT. WHEN: TUESDAY AFTERNOONS REC O D S1:30 – 2:15 P.M. STARTING MAY 5 TIME: O W TH N O R P O O LNEW! Tumble Time

N May R ME T Eon The Beach Club Marina opens for business with full serNER EN22

PR

RE

TY

AT

IT

Y

A

EP N TA LS & R N PR E I VAT E A M

BLIC AM

EN

I

EV RAMS &

E

OG

G LIFE BE

UA

RDS

RE

IR

S

I VAT E A M

P

A

B

KS

PR

N TA

E LS & R

Due to limited snowfall this winter, we were able to open Tahoe DonE AT

TA

HOE

R

NER

OR IKEW

TA

NE DON

DON HOE

IT

Y

PR

NT

S

PU

AT T H E

H

EN

Have you signed your child up for Tumble Time yet? It’s a chance for

your small child to interact with other children as they sing, dance, run and learn to move with grace and balance through interactive activities and small obstacle courses. Advance reservations are required and can be made by calling Kids Club at 530-582-9604.

ner Bikeworks earlier than ever before. We are open from 9 a.m. until 6

WHEN: THURSDAY MORNINGS

p.m. every Friday – Sunday until May 22. After that, we’ll be open seven

TIME: 11:30 A.M. – 12 P.M.

days a week to take care of all of your bike-related needs. Here are a few notes for this early season: • Please stay on established trails while riding. It may be tempting to go off trail especially in spring conditions, but staying in the middle of the trail keeps them in the best shape for everyone later on.

• Tahoe Donner now has fat bikes. These bikes have been going out every day this spring, and everyone comes back smiling. They may have been originally designed for snow or sand, but they are a lot of fun and a great change of pace on normal trails as well.

• Don’t forget to signup online for kids’ mountain bike camps. We’ve expanded this offering every season and it just keeps growing. New for this season is a Monday – Friday option offered once each month in June, July, and August. This is in addition to our weekend camps we do all summer long.

• Tahoe Donner Bikeworks will be operating out of temporary trailers in the Alder Creek Adventure Center parking lot until we move into the new building when it is ready. Please park near the Bikeworks trailers and avoid the construction site until it is finished. We’re definitely looking forward to moving into the new building soon.

See you on the trails.

DAVE WALKER | TAHOE DONNER BIKE PROGRAM MANAGER

Check out the new fat bikes at Bikeworks!

tahoedonner.com |

11

WATER SAFETY Lifeguard Training If you are 15 years or older and looking for a great summer job or a challenging career in the aquatics industry, the Tahoe Donner Ameri-

?

O TA H

of a committed team of certified lifeguards while you work together to Your certification will provide you the necessary skills to prevent and

O TA H

SNO

respond to water related emergencies. Passing the prerequisite skills

NER

AY WPL

M

H

EL

SER

P & INFORM

N

I

E PU BLIC AM ER A ONN E D R E A Tahoe AHO S K I Donner has a full complement of water safety classes to required for certification. Upon successful completion, participants willT H I L Lhelp give you an advantage when looking for the perfect sumN I job.

D OW P U mer obtain the American Red Cross Lifeguard certificate, as well as, CPR/ EN BLIC AM R E ONN AED and First Aid for the Professional Rescuer.

RY OE D TA H UNT TY

test during the first class and attendance at all scheduled classes is

UB H CL C A BE ARINA M

O

DATES: TUESDAY/THURSDAYOMAY 12, 14, 19, 21 TIME: 3 - 7 P.M. SS C TY

PU S SATURDAY, MAY 16, 23 TIME: 9 A.M. 5E NP.M. B L I C -A M BER MEM D T WHERE: TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER EET S

NIS TEN TER CEN

ST

RE

I V AT E A M

EN

Y

ARE INTE

PR

ON OE D TA H N

Lifeguard Review Courses

NER

IA These review courses are intended for those individuals who have ST R QUE

TE CEN

PR

R

IT

SH

Y

I

IT

CR

B C LU A J O I N COST: MEMBERS $179, GUESTS $204

I VAT E A M

EN

S most popular programs from years past as well as many new options OOD N

ONN

BLIC AM

O

E

TIME: 9 A.M. - 1 P.M. COST: MEMBERS $77, GUESTS $99

Lifeguard Review Course

ONN OE D TA H

ER

ON OE D TA H

L I F EB

NER

G UA

E E AT T H E H

S (Includes CPR/AED for theU professional AT I C rescuer and first aid) Q A E

DATES MAY 30 AND SUNDAY, MAY 31, R AND TIMES: SATURDAY, BE H AT T H E NNE T5 P.M. E DO 9 A.M. N O H E TA EV I A LWHERE: TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER PEC COST: MEMBERS $104, GUESTS $124

Stay on Track!

We’re almost midway through the year… Need help with your New Year’s resolution? Trout Creek offers fitness class 10-packs and unlimited passes to help keep you on track.

• Member Class: $10 • Member 10-Pack: $90 • Member Unlimited: $299 • Guest Class: $14 • Guest 10-Pack: $126

Class Start Times Out of consideration to instructors and fellow class members, fitness classes may be closed after the instructor begins. Late entry into class after start time is not guaranteed. Staff appreciates participants arriving a few minutes early to minimize class disruptions.

12

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

I VAT E A M

Wthe latest your Tahoe Donner Tennis Center Tahoe Donner News forEall BIK RE

P

E N TA & R L Ssummer has to offer during the 2015 season.

RDS

AT

WHERE: TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER

E

D Monthly Tennis Calendar of O E and K S all the upcoming issues of Rcourse, TA H

I DATE:N SATURDAY, MAY 30

AT

PU

Y

Check out the Summer Fun Guide,R the Tahoe Donner website, the E N PR

IT

BLIC A

S

N E DO

W O P O

T H levels. to keep you on your toes and help you grow your game Rnew L Oto

I

IR

N ME

I

A

PU

E U R Sfor the professional rescuer review course CPR/AED O C LF

O TA H

GO

NER

TY

PGR

cuer course within the last A Myears.

Ctwo

TY

E courseP U N 2015 tennis season is about to officially start with our opening E The successfully completed a Red Cross Lifeguarding and First Aid BLIC AM EEK R CR D E N D day slated for Saturday, May 2. This summer will include some of our A L a CPR/AED within the last four years and/or O U for the Professional Res-

TY

M

N E DO

ER EMB

NER

TY

provide safety and protection to aquatic patrons. You could save a life!

N E DO

Clinic and Fitness Schedule The 2015 clinic schedule is set and this summer we will continue to offer many of our clinic favorites from heart-pumping cardio tennis to instructional theme classes, as well as many newer programs including mini camps, TRX, yoga and much, much more.

Ladies Drill, Men’s and Mixed Doubles Weekly Play Dates The easiest way to get out and play tennis this summer is to just signup and let us take care of the rest. With all of our organized play dates each week, you will get all the tennis you need without having to worry about finding a fourth or making calls.

TUESDAYS: RON MARKS MEMORIAL MEN’S DAY, 9 - 10:30 A.M. TUESDAYS: 3.5+ LADIES NIGHT 5-7 P.M. COST: $2 MEMBERS, $5 GUESTS WEDNESDAYS: LADIES DAY DRILL AND PLAY, 9 A.M. – 12 P.M. 90 MINUTE CLINIC - 90 MINUTES OF PLAY. COST: $21 MEMBERS; $26 GUESTS WEDNESDAYS: 4.0+ MEN’S NIGHT 5-7 P.M. COST: $2 MEMBERS, $5 GUESTS FRIDAYS: LADIES DAY, 9 - 10:30 A.M. SUNDAYS: MIXED DOUBLES DAY, 9 - 10:30 A.M.

Memorial Weekend Season Kick-Off - French Open Tribute Lace up your sneakers and grab your racquet as we kick off the season in style. This tennis club sponsored event gets you out on the courts

VIC

ON

advantage! Lifeguarding certification will qualify you to work as part

TI

can Red Cross Lifeguarding certification program will give you an

A

for a great afternoon of team tennis. The exciting format will have you buzzing from court to court and match to match as you fight for every game to help your team to victory.

DATE: SATURDAY, MAY 23 - ROUND ROBIN: 2 - 5 P.M. - BBQ AND POTLUCK: 5 P.M.

Seventh Annual NTRP Tournament at Tahoe Donner The Tahoe Donner Tennis Center is hosting its Seventh Annual

Clubhouse. Friday Family Movie Night movies are rated G and PG.

Trivia Night Enjoy a pizza from Pizza on the Hill and show off your skills every Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. for Trivia Night. You may even win prizes or gift certificates! No charge for Trivia Night; event is subject to cancellation by 7:15 p.m. if insufficient attendance.

NTRP tournament on Friday, May 29 - Sunday, May 31. The NorCal branch of the USTA has designated this year’s event a Tournament of the Year in the 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 divisions with 1.5x the ranking points.

Signup is available online at www.norcal.usta.com.

Junior Tennis Camps The return of our Junior Tennis Camps are a welcome addition to

?

the summerEprogram as we look to immerse our tennis players of the R

N DON E S hours of daily instruction and play-based learning.

H O E in up VtoI Cfour R TAfuture SE TI

ON

B E Rprogram will feature a flexible schedule to fit your child’s other M E MThe H A E M

L

P & INFOR activities with a pay-for-play only system, meaning you’ll only pay for

your child’s time on the courts. This program and the rest of the Junior Clinic schedule will start Monday, June 22.

Spring has sprung at Tahoe Donner Tennis so give us a call at 530-

K T R O U activities TE information on all the T Rtennis C E N at Tahoe Donner this summer.

C E R B on the courts. you LU CSee H C EA RINA M A IAN MINDELL | DIRECTOR OF TENNIS I VAT E A M

EN

PR

Check the online monthly calendar at tahoedonner.com/tennis for a comprehensive list of clinics and events at the Tahoe Donner Tennis Center.

ROGER BURNS | RECREATION SUPERVISOR

IT

Y

PR

IT

Y

E 587-9474 or stop by the pro shopC forRaE complete list of events or more

I V AT E A

N ME

Tahoe Donner Hiking Club The 2015 hiking season is well underway. It began in March with three 10-mile day hikes on the East Bay Skyline National Recreation

S

NT

PR

OG

EV RAMS &

PR

IT

Y

ODS O W RTH OL PO

E

TA

REC

NER

TION REA

DON HOE

I VAT E A M

EN

Friday Family Movie Night FREE! 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 at Northwoods

Trail. In April the Thursday group hiked the Rubicon Trail, explored new trails closer to home, climbed Castle Peak and tried a portion of the Daggett Loop in South Shore that we’d not hiked before. Backpack trips included the Lost Coast and the Rooster Comb Loop in Henry Coe State Park. On April 25, at least 10 members hiked from “Ridge to Bridge” participating in the Bay Area’s Ridge Trail annual fundraiser.

Members are invited to attend the annual “Start of the Season Potluck” on Friday evening, May 22, 5:30 p.m. at the home of Leslie and Ron Kahn in Tahoe Donner.

ROOF PAINTING ROGERS PAINTING Specializing in Home Inspection Compliance

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

tahoedonner.com |

13

We arrived a short time later in Virginia City and by that time, we all were starving. We had lunch at a great Mexican restaurant and after lunch we took an hour to explore the shops and bars in town. It’s a very fun place to visit. Folks dressed up in Wild West costumes with shoot outs in the middle of the street and saloons that made you feel like you’re back in the late 1800s.

Our four wheeling wasn’t over yet, because we found a hard way to go back down to the Mount Rose Highway. As we went north from Virginia City, we turned left on the Old Geiger Grade Toll Road. This toll road was built in 1862 and was used by thousands of wagon trains hauling passengers and freight from the Comstock Lode to Truckee Meadows. This road was pretty smooth and not as rocky, but it did have some intereston a hike The Tahoe Donner Hiking Club posed for a group photo while on April 11. Photo courtesy Robin Reese.

ing shelf roads. This took us back to Mount Rose Highway (Highway 341) and back to Truckee.

We had a great time on this trail run and the

The 2015 schedules for Monday short hikes, Thursday long hikes, away trips and backpack trips are all set and we encourage you to check them out on our website to get involved: http://sites.google.com/site/ tahoedonnerhikingclub.

9-Holers Women’s Golf Club Golf season at Tahoe Donner is almost here. The Women’s 9 Holers Golf Club is looking forward to another great season of golf and social events. If you are interested in playing in a social, non-pressured environment then we invite you to join our club. Contact our club president, Marianne Bowers, at mariannebowers@hotmail.com or 530-550-9079 if interested.

TD 4 Wheeler’s Club “Yippee Ti Yi Yo - Get Along Little Doggies” is what I kept hearing in my head as we saddled up and headed for the old west town of Virginia City. We were looking for Ben Cartwright, Hoss and Little Joe, but we found lots of shops, great food and a very fun place to visit!

Of course we drove the “hard way” to Virginia City. The 4x4 trail started at the Arrowhead Road exit off U.S. 395 on the north end of Carson City. The trail is called McClellen Peak Trail which follows a road called Goni Road up to the top of the peak. The views from the top were spectacular. The entire Carson Valley was below us and the front range of the Sierra Nevada mountain range behind that.

The trail took us past all the communication towers at the top and then dropped us into a canyon full of barren aspen trees. After about 12 miles, we reached the next trail called Ophir Grade Trail. This road was built back in 1860 and was originally a toll road that led to the many mines located in the area. You can still see the remnants of many of the mines from the piles of tailings left behind. The trail was a little rocky and there were some shelf roads with pretty steep drop offs. For the most part, they were wide and comfortable to drive with a low pucker factor rating.

14

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

Lined up and ready to go. Photo by Karl Huie.

people in our club are very nice people and fun to be with. We have some big plans coming up and I hope you will decide to join us.

The first big event we are planning is in conjunction with Tahoe Donner and the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund, called Sierra 4x4 Trails and Ales. This event will be held at the new Tahoe Donner Adventure Center on July 18. The event will feature 4x4 vehicles from our local club as well as vehicles from other clubs in the area. It’s a chance for you to come out and talk to folks about 4x4s and off-road experiences so that you can see if four wheeling is in your future. We will also have a beer tasting sponsored by Deschutes Brewery and many other fun activities, so please put this date on your calendar.

We are also in the process of planning a trip to the 2016 Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. The event is held each year at the end of March.

Next year will be the 50th anniversary of the event and the club is plan-

ning on attending as a group. This event and the hotels in Moab fill up quickly, so if you are interested in going, join the club today. Visit our

Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club It’s once again time to start swinging that golf club. The course is

website at td4wheelers.com and if you are interested in joining the club,

scheduled to open on May 15. With limited snow this season, Golf

send an email to td4wheelers@gmail.com.

Course Superintendent Kevin Kuehne and his crew will have the course

Tahoe Donner Men’s Golf Club The Tahoe Donner Men’s and Women’s Golf Clubs invite all Tahoe

in great shape. Every Tuesday starting June 2 – Oct. 13 the club has regularly scheduled play days. Scheduled shotgun times are:

Donner property owners to participate in the third annual Golf Course

JUNE THROUGH AUGUST

8 A.M.

Cleanup Days for this season.

SEPT. 1, 8, 15, 22

9 A.M.

SEPT. 29 THROUGH OCT. 13

10 A.M.

This is a great opportunity to improve the playability and visual impact of the course. The course cleanup days are scheduled for Saturday, May 2 and Saturday, May 9, which will be just in time for the course to open on May 15. As in the past few years, our plan is to work on four holes with a focus on cleaning up the rough and woods. We will rake and pick up pinecones, pine needles, twigs, dead branches, and rocks so that we will be able to find — and hopefully hit — our balls out of the woods and the rough. We may also remove dead bushes and trim some dead, low hanging branches.

Kevin Kuehne will provide carts to haul the debris away as well as some advice on what to do. You should plan to bring work gloves, rakes, trimmers, hoes, water, and if you can, plastic garbage cans. Head Golf Pro Rob Weizer has offered range cards and a drawing for a round of golf for each cleanup outing. The golf clubs will provide a simple BBQ of sausages, chips and drinks after the morning cleanup.

The cleanup will start at 9 a.m. sharp (meet in front of the pro shop)

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: JUNE 16

LUNCHEON AND GENERAL MEETING

JUNE 23

TD PRESIDENTS CUP MATCH PLAY FOR ALL

JULY 26

TD INVITATIONAL KICKOFF EVENT

JULY 27 AND 28

TD INVITATIONAL AND LUNCHEON

AUGUST 11 AND 12

TD CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

AUGUST 25

AWARDS LUNCHEON

New members are always welcome. We have a wonderful Big Sister program that creates a smooth transition into the club. Members are always happy to see new faces. If you are interested, email the Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club at tdwgclub@gmail.com for an application or visit tdwomengolf.org.

Looking forward to a great season. Hope to see many of our women on the course.

and go until lunch. This is a great alternative to going to the gym or taking a hike or riding your bike. We will organize into several crews with a cart for transporting the debris. If you have any questions, please contact one of the following club members: Bob Moore with the Men’s Club at bob4moore@aol.com Marianne Bowers with the 9-Holers at mariannebowers@hotmail.com Karolyn Gander with the 9-Holers at karolyngander@yahoo.com Meg McShannic with the 19-Holers at mmcshannic@gmail.com Glenda Bradley with the 18-Holers at tahoeglenny@gmail.com

Tahoe Donner Senior Alpine Ski Club Are you looking for a fun group of active Tahoe Donner skiers aged 55 and above? The Tahoe Donner Senior Alpine Ski Club (TDSASC) is for you. While we managed to get in 15 group ski days this year in an otherwise very mild winter, we are not just about skiing. We have plenty of summer activities planned including kayak trips, bike rides, tennis and golf tournaments and BBQs. If you are looking for year-round sports activities and a great social environment, join us at the Tahoe Donner Senior Alpine Ski Club. Please check us out on our website at tdski.com for membership information and our planned summer activities. We look forward to seeing you!

Tahoe Donner Quilt Club Starting in June, Tahoe Donner Quilt Club will change their meeting hours to the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 6 – 8 p.m. now that all the summer fun has started. No need to burn daylight!

Contact Linda Brush at sewlinda@aol.com for more information on the Tahoe Donner Quilt Club.

tahoedonner.com |

15

DINING OPTIONS The Lodge Restaurant & Pub

12850 Northwoods Blvd.

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

DINNER HOURS: Open daily from 5 - 9 p.m.

NOW OPEN: After being closed temporarily for renovations, The Lodge Restaurant & Pub reopens on May 4.

SUMMER HOURS AND OFFERINGS: With summer right around the corner, we will be extending our food and beverage offerings in mid-May.

T-9 Grill – Open on May 15 The golf course opens on May 15 and so does our wonderful snack bar. Be sure to try our signature Mulligan sandwich.

The Pub – Open at 11:30 a.m. every day starting May 15 We will be serving food from the T-9 Grill and drinks from the bar.

Golfers’ Happy Hour – Starts May 15*

LODGE EVENTS

Our unforgettable Golfers’ Happy Hour returns for the season. Golfers will enjoy food and drink specials from 1 – 4 p.m. daily in the Pub, including Memorial Day weekend.

Cinco de Mayo Party – Tuesday, May 5*

LODGE SPECIALS Three-Course Meal Deal* The Three-Course Meal Deal is back!

Between May 4 and May 31, diners can take advantage of one of our most requested deals.

For $25, you’ll enjoy a three-course, Chef’s Choice menu that even includes a glass of house wine! This deal is only valid Sunday – Thursday, May 4 – 31 and excludes May 5 and May 24 for holidays.

WildER Wednesdays* Join us for wildly-delicious Happy Hour specials all night long in the entire restaurant and Pub. Enjoy food and drink specials, plus 25 percent off shared plates, soups and salads.

HOURS: Open Thursday - Monday for dinner, 5 - 8:30 p.m.

Free Deschutes Brewery Tasting Saturday May 30 Come sample some delicious offerings from the Deschutes Brewery. We will be sampling Mirror Pond Pale Ale, Chainbreaker White IPA and Fresh Squeezed IPA, with all three on sale for only $4.

16

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

All mothers and their families will enjoy: • “Extra-special” specials by Chef Lew • Bounce house and crafts for the kids from 4 -7 p.m.

• The Pub will open at 4 p.m. for drinks and dinner begins at 5 p.m.

• Happy Hour deals from 4 - 6:30 p.m.

Free Wine Tasting - Saturday, May 16

Take advantage of Happy Hour at The Lodge Pub, available every day, including Memorial Day weekend, from 5 – 6:30 p.m.

Enjoy drink specials and 25 percent off shared plates, soups and salads in the Pub.

$10 Pizza Sundays

Friday Family Movie Night

It’s pizza for just $10! Grab this deal every Sunday at Pizza on the Hill. Valid for cheese or pepperoni pizza only; limit six pizzas per group; take it to-go or dine-in. $10 Pizza Sunday is not valid Memorial Day weekend, May 24.

Enjoy a movie on our big screen for FREE. See page 13 for details.

No Corkage Tuesdays*

Happy Hour*

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

Mother’s Day Weekend Celebrations Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9*

Get ready to try our striking 2011 Ritual Pinot Noir from Casablanca Valley, Chile.

This deep, ruby-red wine is rich with aromas, including cherry and boysenberry, and mixed with violets and lavender. Patrons are invited to The Lodge Restaurant & Pub to try this wine for free from 5 – 7 p.m.

BONUS: This wine is normally $36 a bottle, but with special incentive from the winery, for one night only, we are able to offer it for $20 by the bottle and $5 by the glass. Don’t miss this rare opportunity.

Bring in a special bottle of wine from home to savor in the dining room and we’ll waive the corkage fee on Tuesdays.

Pizza on the Hill

Join us for our annual Cinco de Mayo celebration and enjoy: • Mexican Food specials by Sous Chef Freddy Zarate • $5 margaritas / $3 Coronas • Happy Hour all night in the entire restaurant • No Corkage Tuesdays is even valid!

Half Price Apps On every Monday night in May, you and your guests can enjoy half price appetizers all night long! From cheesy garlic bread to chicken fingers and baked stuffed mushrooms, ALL appetizers are included! Offer valid every Monday in May—even Memorial Day! What a deal!

Thursday Night Trivia Like trivia? This is your chance to win prizes or gift certificates! Don’t miss our Trivia Night at Pizza on the Hill. See page 13 for details.

Happy Hour* Quench your thirst with $3 Coors Light, $4 seasonal draft beers and $4 house cabernet or chardonnay by the glass; plus, enjoy half-price wings and chili cheese fries for just $4. Offered from 5 - 6 p.m., Thursday-Monday.

Be sure to ask about our specialty pizzas, soups of the day, and monthly specialty salads. *All offers listed are valid during non-holiday periods unless otherwise noted and are not valid with any other promotions or coupons. Offers subject to change.

CA LIC #960719

DRY IN ONE HOUR! Extend the life of your carpet and upholstery with our low-moisture cleaning process.

It cleans without soaking, so your carpet will look great and be dry in one hour.

SPRING SPECIAL

15% OFF

Carpet Cleaning

15% OFF

Upholstery Cleaning with 3 room carpet cleaning

3 room minimum

• 100% Guaranteed • Free Estimates • No Hidden Charges • Prompt, Reliable Service • Deodorizing & Sanitizing • Environmentally Safe • Carpet Protectant Available • Carpet, Upholstery, Hardwood and Tile & Grout

LOW MOISTURE DROUGHT COMPLIANT

SERVING TAHOE DONNER AND ALL TRUCKEE AND NORTH LAKE TAHOE COMMUNITIES

530-550-1252 530-320-4192 Cell talk/text tahoedonner.com |

17

GOLF

WATER CONSERVATION AND EFFICIENCY EFFORTS

BY KEVIN KUEHNE | GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT fornia uses more water than any state in the

Donner is no exception. We understand that

encing the fourth year of a severe statewide

As most of us know, California is experi-

country, coming in at an estimated 38 billion

water is a most precious resource, and appreci-

drought. In fact, recent readings show the

gallons perday. According to the U.S. Geo-

ate the increasing need to conserve what we

lowest snowpack ever recorded in our state’s

logical Survey (USGS), the average American

currently have. As professional turf manag-

history. Expectedly, this comes with contin-

goes through 80 to 100 gallons per day. The

ers, it is our duty to irrigate in an efficient

ued statewide water use restrictions. Although

USGS also states that farming uses approxi-

manner. Tahoe Donner’s Golf Maintenance

Truckee as a community is not in a water

mately 80 percent of California’s fresh water;

Department has been proactively taking

shortage, we are indeed part of California’s

homes, businesses, and industry roughly 20

steps to reduce the need for potable water at

drought. It is our collaborative duty to reduce

percent; golf courses use less than 1 percent.

our course for many years, and have spent in

the amount of water we use in every way

Since there are no restrictions being placed on

excess of $120,000 since 2010 towards conser-

possible, from irrigating our home lawns and

farming, the initial restrictions affect only 20

landscapes to how we manage water usage for

percent of the water usage in California.

our businesses.

RECENTLY ADDED WATER REDUCTION PROVISIONS INCLUDE:

vation efforts. Such efforts include: • Irrigating at night and early morning when evapotranspiration rates are at a minimum

Some of us may be surprised how much water is actually used in everyday living. Cali-

• No irrigating for 48 hours during or after measureable precipitation • Restaurants serving water upon request only • Hotels must provide guests the option of not having towels and linens laundered daily • Previous provisions can be found by visiting the Truckee-Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) website Efficiency in irrigation is nothing new to the golf industry, and the golf course at Tahoe

18

| Tahoe Donner News | April May 2015

• The purchase and replacement of dated or malfunctioning irrigation heads and nozzles with modern ones, to gain maximum efficiency and increase distribution uniformity: $44,000 since 2010 • The purchase and utilization of state-of-the art computer software to manage applications which offers single head control, as well as soak and cycle time capabilities, for maximum efficacy: $50,000 in 2013 • Daily monitoring and adjustment of our irrigation system and components • The purchase and replacement of a dated booster pump located at one of the wells on our property: $9,800 in 2014

Our most notable effort was a $20,000 investment toward the instal-

DID YOU KNOW?

lation of pressure-reducing valves to our irrigation system in 2010. Due to elevation change, which caused extremely high pressures at the

• There are 866 golf courses in California

lower portion of our course, we were previously forced to water roughly

• Golf courses represent approximately 3.5 percent of the total turfgrass in California

one-third of the property with TDPUD water only.

The comparison of 2009 and 2010 usage below shows modifications

• California’s golf industry...

made to increase well water, and decrease TDPUD usage.

Year

#5 Inlet

#15 Inlet

#1 Inlet

2009 13,098,200 Gal 450,000 Gal 19,509,700 Gal

33,057,900

2010 20,019,900 Gal

21,755,000

539,900 Gal

• has a direct economic impact of $6.3 billion

Total Gallons

1,195,200 Gal

• has a total economic impact of $13.1 billion • provides 128,000 jobs • has a total wage income of $4.1 billion • contributes charitable giving of $364 million

As shown, the total amount used in 2010 is significantly less than that of 2009, and represents a 34 percent reduction. Since installation, we now have the ability to move water around the entire property by opening up the portion of our system that was previously isolated from the rest of the course, irrigating as a looped system, using a blend of

we will discuss the finalized Alternative Means of Compliance docu-

TDPUD and well water.

ments (AMC), as well as attend a presentation by the Regional Water

Tahoe Donner Golf Course wants to ensure that we are approach-

Authority (RWA) on updated drought language and laws that have been

ing conservation in a smart, efficient, and realistic manner. It is our

passed and what they mean for the future.

intention to aid in the State Water Resources Control Board’s (SWRCB)

We expect to provide excellent golf course conditions this year, and

water reduction efforts. The Golf Course Superintendents Association

are looking forward to the course opening on May 15. Some sacrifices

of America (GCSAA) has been working with state water officials for

may have to be made, but it is the intention of the Golf Maintenance

many years now, and has formed a Water Task Force. Tahoe Donner’s

Department to do so in a manner that maximizes water savings while

golf course management staff will be attending these meetings, where

limiting impact on aesthetics and playability.

E ’S THE ST T I H T LOWE ICESYEAR R G P I B E OF TH L S HAU PLACE E OME C TAIN H A L MOUN A N N U

MAY 15

NTER’S

JUNE

14

NTORY

ON E

INVE NTIRE

OF

FIREOVESD &BY LSOPTI, AVAXLTORNOARNDINAIR LACE FIREP BS U T T O G HBY HOTSPRIN

Orders are taken from May 15 to June 14 and arrive by the Truckload — we pass the volume discounts on to you. Two Truckee locations: Main Showroom at 11403 Brockway Rd., 530-587-6681; and, Downtown in the historic Loading Dock building at 10115 Donner Pass Rd., 530-550-8800 • www.MountainHomeCenter.com

tahoedonner.com |

19

GOLF

GET THE LATEST AND GREATEST GOLF GEAR AND TECHNOLOGY

BY ROB WEIZER | HEAD GOLF PRO With all of the new and exciting products

See the new Directed Force putter at the pro shop.

FlexGrid system begins with a base layer

skin from the sun’s harmful rays. This, along

out there in the golf world, it’s been very

that consists of a tight-knit, lightweight, soft,

with their Moisture Transport System, wicks

challenging to make sure that we get the right

flexible, waterproof mesh which allows for

away sweat from your body and dries very

things in stock for you when the season opens.

maximum comfort, breathability, flexibility

quickly.

Trust me—if we could, we would carry every-

and airflow. That layer is supported by the

thing! However, we’re confident that you’ll

very noticeable FlexGrid exoskeleton "cage"

like our selections for this year; come on in to

which conforms to the foot and allows it to

check them out.

flex and expand but is also strong enough to

be an exclusive fitter of this putter when we

Some of our most innovative products are in

Another fantastic product this year is the new Directed Force putter.

Our Head Golf Professional Rob Weizer will

keep the foot from rolling laterally during the

start the season. Most putters on the market

the golf shoe category, where the technology

golf swing. The end result is a very unique

today “flop open” as soon as the backswing

and performance features will blow you away.

shoe that wraps your foot in the comfort you

is initiated, creating accuracy issues and

One of them, the new Foot Joy HyperFlex, is

expect from an athletic shoe with the support

the need to apply uneven wrist and hand

sure to be one of the stars of the year.

of a high-performance golf shoe. We will be

pressure to square up the clubhead. These

carrying a full size run for men and women in

Directed Force putters were designed to

soft, mesh upper materials which are perfect

both the HyperFlex and the HyperFlex with

achieve a smooth, effortless, lie-angle balanced

for running and activities that don't require

BOA technology this season. Make sure to try

stroke. Lie-angle balancing is an entirely

a lot of lateral movement. The key is to keep

on a pair!

new approach to putter fitting that virtually

Most athletic shoes are constructed with

those comfort qualities in place but also to

In clothing, the emphasis in almost all

eliminates putter head rotation once and for

deliver the support, stability and waterproof

brands is performance fabrics; they can cool

all. Lie-angle balancing allows the smaller

qualities required for golf. Through extensive

you off in the heat or keep you warm during a

and more unpredictable muscle groups to

testing, this balance was achieved utilizing

morning chill. One of the biggest innovators in

relax during the stroke, enabling the player’s

an engineered material never before used in

this field is Under Armour, otherwise known

stronger muscle groups to maintain control

golf shoes. Foot Joy has dubbed it FlexGrid.

as UA. Perhaps you’ve heard of a reasonably

over the swing speed and path of the putter.

The FlexGrid was actually inspired by the

talented golfer these days by the name of

Each putter is custom fit to the exact specifica-

Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill suspension

Jordan Speith? The logo you see him wear is

tions necessary for you: lie angle, length, and

cable bridge in Boston, Massachusetts. The

exactly what we’ll have in the golf shop this

grip. The company is based out of Reno and

season. These shirts feature the revolution-

is gaining popularity quickly among the golf

ary ColdBlack technology, which is built right

professional community. Come see why the

into the dye, reflecting the sun’s heat and harmful rays, so you feel cooler and stay protected. A 30-plus UPF protects your

Directed Force putter will make the game of golf fun again!

We’ve got lots more to show you, but you’ll just have to come into the golf shop and see for yourself. As always, if there’s something special you want that we don’t have in stock, we’ll custom order it for you! And remember, all Tahoe Donner members /homeowners will receive a 10 percent discount on all purchases.

Our knowledgeable golf shop staff will be happy to assist you with all of your shopping

The new Foot Joy Hyperflex is available in the Tahoe Donner Golf Course pro shop.

20

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

details.

Spring Cleaning!

Smart way to buy, easy safe way to sell

SPRING GOLF DEALS These were so popular last spring and fall, we are bringing them back for 2015. Don’t miss out on these great spring golf deals valid from

At Consign Furniture and Consign Appliance we take care of everything!

From pickup, pricing and advertising to selling!

Whether you’re looking to sell or buy, call or visit our 36,000 square foot showroom today!

opening day through June 25; and be sure to check out the Father’s Day Special for the special retail discount.

DRIVE AND DINE Returning to Tahoe Donner Golf Course for a limited time is our Drive and Dine special, valid only May 15 – June 25. Golfers may enjoy 18-hole green fees with a shared cart and a $20 food credit to be used at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. Packages start at just $65, including your food credit with tee times available daily after 1 p.m.

MAY 15 – JUNE 11: $65 MEMBER | $75 GUEST | $85 PUBLIC

775.824.0222 Consign Furniture

Consign Appliance

6865 Sierra Center Pkwy, #200, Reno | 155 Glendale Ave, Reno

JUNE 12 – 25: $75 MEMBER | $85 GUEST | $95 PUBLIC

Food credit must be used the same day of golf play. Advance reservations recommended. Golfers must present coupon along with a valid receipt from Tahoe Donner Golf Course. Not valid with any other offers or discounts.

LOCALS SPRING SPECIAL Calling all Truckee and North Lake Tahoe locals—this deal is exclusive to you! Through June 25, residents with a valid local ID* are eligible to receive NCGA member preferred rates. Rates vary by play time and date.

THROUGH JUNE 11: BEFORE 2 P.M. $65, TWILIGHT (2 – 3:50 P.M.) $50, 9 HOLES (4 P.M. OR AFTER) $35 JUNE 12 – 25: BEFORE 2 P.M. $79, TWILIGHT (2 – 3:50 P.M.) $64, 9 HOLES (4 P.M. OR AFTER) $44

*Golfer must present local Truckee or North Lake Tahoe ID in order to redeem NCGA rates.

FATHER’S DAY GOLF SPECIAL Make dad feel extra special this Father’s Day. By purchasing him a 4-play pack (for public) or a 5-play pack (for Tahoe Donner members) on or before June 21, dad will also receive a 40 percent off retail coupon! Play packs may be used for separate rounds or all together for one foursome. Contact the golf pro shop for more info at 530-587-9443 or by email at golf@tahoedonner.com.

Coupon valid only on regular-priced items and excludes golf clubs; may not be combined with any other offer. Coupon expires June 30, 2015.

tahoedonner.com |

21

FEATURE

NATIONAL POLICE WEEK: HONOR OUR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

BY ASHLEY QUADROS For over 50 years, after President Kennedy

is May 10 through May 16 and it’s a chance to

Tahoe Donner resident Sergeant Dan Ingalls

made the proclamation in 1962, our nation has

recognize and pay tribute to the entire law

has held various law enforcement roles over 28

celebrated National Peace Officers Memorial

enforcement community, with a special empha-

years, including 19 years with the Placer County

Day on May 15 and National Police Week the

sis on May 15 as a day to remember all officers

Sheriff’s Office in North Lake Tahoe before

same week. This year National Police Week

who have fallen in the line of duty.

retiring. For him, these memorials represent

TAHOE DONNER HONORS LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS WITH DINING; GOLF DISCOUNTS In appreciation for those in law enforcement, retired or active police officers may enjoy 20 percent off their meals at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub and Pizza on the Hill for all of National Police Week, valid May 10 through May 16 (excluding beverages).

Additionally, on May 15 and 16, Tahoe Donner Golf Course offers the guest rate on green fees for active and retired peace officers. Details: 530-587-9443.

22

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

personal sacrifice and the families and loved ones left behind.

“It is also about all the men and women still doing the job right now across the nation,” said Ingalls. “Many of us go into the job knowing we might get hurt, all the while also carrying a burden of knowing that one day, we might be forced to take the life of another in a split-second decision,” Ingalls said. “That is part of what we come to expect, but the loved ones around us don’t get that choice and often don’t understand the depth of that burden.”

Ingalls explained that it is difficult to grasp what it is like being an officer without having lived the life. On one day in particular, he was almost shot down by his own team because of the clothes he was wearing. After working his shift, he changed into plain clothes and drove his marked patrol car toward his home in Tahoe Donner. That’s when he witnessed a hit and run and immediately began pursuing the driver who fled the scene.

“The chase ended in some woods outside of Truckee,” recalled Ingalls. “The suspect got out of the car and ran. Once I caught the guy, all of the reinforcements started showing up.” Police arrived to find someone in plain cloths (Ingalls) with a gun in his hands pointed down into the tall grass. “Because they ran past my marked patrol car, they thought it was me in uniform on the ground with a bad guy standing over me pointing his gun at me. I was almost taken out by friendly fire.”

Luckily Ingalls wasn’t harmed that day, but the incident reinforces how split-second decisions happen every day — sometimes several times in a single shift. They are part of the job and they can have lasting effects for all involved.

Another incident Ingalls will never forget was when he helped rescue an abused and neglected boy. “Being part of a Child Protective Services investigation, I found this kid was forced to live in a closet for a bedroom. His bed was nothing more than the narrow wooden closet’s shelf with some tattered old clothing for his bedding,” recalled Ingalls. “He came to school daily — an accomplishment unto itself — malnourished, dirty and wearing the same clothes. There are many other details I won’t go

Showing off their humorous side, Truckee policemen joined the radio station 101.5 KTKE’s snow dance party last February and began dancing with Officer “Chipmunk” leading the pack.

enforcement encounter on a routine basis. He worked with the California Highway Patrol

red light.”

Even today we see this form of police humor

(CHP) for 32 years, including 10 years right

in our community. At a snow dance party

here in Truckee before he retired.

presented by the radio station KTKE 101.5

He enjoyed his career as an officer; out of

earlier this year, Tahoe Donner team mem-

all his duties, he enjoyed helping people at

bers attended but were taken aback when cops

accidents and determining who was at fault.

swarmed the station, lights blazing and sirens

“Investigations were very interesting, from

whining, only to see officers jump out of their

recreating scenes to speed from skid marks

squad cars and start dancing, too. One was even

and damage,” he said. And in his 30-plus years

wearing a chipmunk mask; as Wulff confirmed,

of investigations, he noted many procedures

they too have a sense of humor.

transformed. “A lot of changes took place, from

While law enforcement can have an enter-

printing all of the reports with a pencil to the

taining side, Wulff reminds us that being in law

introduction of computerized reports,” recalled

enforcement is still a serious job with grave

Wulff. Wulff shared an old teletype from 1984,

consequences. “Most officers get injured dur-

in which he, himself, was reported to police

ing arrests or accidents, many while on traffic

while on duty for wearing a pig mask on the job.

stops,” explained Wulff. “A couple of officers

“I did this every year on Halloween,” recalled

I knew and worked with had to retire after

Wulff. “It lets you know that cops do have a

motorcycle accidents; and one died.” Wulff

sense of humor. It was a lot of fun watching the

was also involved in accidents while on the job,

reactions when I stopped alongside a car at a

including two motorcycle collisions, in addition

into, but let’s just say this young life was challenged beyond most of our wildest dreams.”

With the help of his team, Ingalls saved the child who was later adopted into a loving family and given a second chance at life. It’s instances such as these—making a difference— that Ingalls found most rewarding during his law enforcement career, and part of the reason he is proud to celebrate National Police Week

Pictured here is an example of a teletype used by police in the 1980s. In this example, Officer Wulff was reported to police for wearing a pig mask, which the reporting party greatly appreciated.

and National Peace Officers Memorial Day as an opportunity to honor his fellow and fallen police officers.

Much like Ingalls, Tahoe Donner board member and former police officer Ron Wulff knows firsthand the challenges those in law tahoedonner.com |

23

“My son Parker makes me feel like a hero every day, but so do the residents of Truckee.

It is a great feeling to be able to impact a community in a way that makes everyone appreciate where they live,” explained Leftwich. “The vast majority of us just want a safe, fun and energetic environment to raise kids and live. It’s very rewarding to be part of a team that makes that happen.”

With 24 sworn full-time and four reserve part-time officers, eight supRetired police officer and Tahoe Donner resident Ron Wulff is on the board of directors for Tahoe Donner.

to being struck by a car at an accident scene. He survived without permanent injuries, but others were not as fortunate.

In 2014, a total of 286 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty—that’s nearly 24 lives lost per month in 2014.

“I don’t go to the CHP Academy very often but when I do I always read the names of fallen

port staff and eight animals, the Truckee Police Department team is modest in size, but big in results. As a small community, the crime is less than larger cities, making it possible for officers here to see the impact of their work much sooner and to a greater degree, compared to a community with significant crime.

While police presence and crime vary by community, Leftwich’s view of law enforcement in general is similar to those of Ingalls and Wulff. “Being an officer is very differ-

CHP officers at the memorial there,” said

be very cerebral but can have a lot of physical demands as well.” Those demands make National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day paramount times to remember our fallen officers and to honor those who are still active like Leftwich or retired like Ingalls and Wulff. “It also prompts us to be thankful for our lives and that we still get to enjoy being

week is humbling and really should be about

trained together.

those who have died in the line of duty and for

Captain Rob Leftwich, another Tahoe Don-

the families they left behind.”

ner resident who has been in law enforcement

Officer Wulff concurred, stating, “I think

20 years — including four years presently at the

that these memorial days mean more to active

Truckee Police Department — indicated he too

and retired officers, and families, as a time of

has lost fellow officers. “Regardless if it is an

remembering friends and families.” Sergeant

act of violence or an accident, it is just hard to

Ingalls agreed. “The national recognition is not

experience that,” he said. “Traffic collisions or

about me as a retiree other than having done

accidents involving vehicles are still one of the

the job. It’s about those we have lost and their

biggest threats out there to officers.”

daily contributions to society. These special

Leftwich has had his fair share of run-ins

weeks and memorials are expressions of grati-

with danger as well. In his younger days, he

tude and are vitally important.”

was stabbed with a screwdriver, or as he called

On behalf of the entire Tahoe Donner team,

it, “poked,” in addition to having his knee torn

we thank all officers for the sacrifices that they

and his left eye and nose fractured. “We have

have made and continue to make in keeping our

local athletes that are way tougher,” he joked,

communities safe year after year and for many

but in seriousness remarked that, despite the

especially — very rewarding.

explained the captain. “Law enforcement can

“The importance of recognizing the day and

from either working alongside them or having

police force — and Truckee Police Department

ent than what is portrayed on television,”

here and being healthy,” explained Leftwich.

Wulff, adding that he inevitably knows some

hardships faced, he finds being part of the

Demonstrating the versatility of the Truckee Police Force, the team displays their boat, bikes and even an official police paddleboard. Photo by Truckee Police Department/Town of Truckee.

Tahoe Donner resident Rob Leftwich, who began his law enforcement career in Concord, Calif., feels fortunate to have the stability of a government position in such a beautiful mountain town.

years to come.

We hope you and your families enjoy the dining and golf benefits as we remember and thank all of those who have served our communities.

The Truckee Police Department’s 2014 Annual Report is now available online at townoftruckee.com/departments/police/annual-report 24

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

WINNER

P

U R E NN

RU

Thank you to our 2015 snowman contest participants. The contest proved to be a bit more challenging this winter due to limited

snowfall, but for those in the right place at the right time, lack of snow was no deterrent. Above, the Moreno family is all smiles with their favorite Disney character, Olaf. Above left, our 8-year-old runner-up, Kaitlyn Alcaid, poses with her snowman, Holly Jolly Christmas. Winners received gift certificates to dine at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub.

tahoedonner.com |

25

COMMUNITY Your gift can contribute to fund low-cost spay and neuter clinics, which help to lower the population of homeless dogs and cats.

ENVIRONMENT AND ANIMAL WELFARE IN OUR COMMUNITY

BY JANET ZIPSER ZIPKIN | TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND COMMITTEE This is the fourth and final article in the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund series about how our local nonprofits contribute to the health and welfare of our community.

IMAGINE Imagine the Sierra with overgrown forests, diseased trees, grey air, muddy lakes filled with algae and trickles of creeks too shallow from silt to support fish life. Now look closely and see what decades of logging, highway construction, cattle grazing and bad land management have in fact done to our environment.

How do we get back to green forests, crystal fresh air, clear blue alpine lakes and rapidly flowing streams teaming with fish? How do we keep our wild and domesticated animals healthy?

HERE’S HOW We can support the numerous local non-profit organizations that are dedicated to preserving forest health, limiting air pollution, restoring creeks, streams and lakes and protecting our native fish and fauna. In the past couple of decades, these organizations have built trails and bikeways; completed more than 60 river restoration projects; prevented over 81 tons of sediment from reaching our streams; advocated for the preservation of habitat, open space and the region’s character; saved nearly 3,000 animals (including every single homeless dog and cat in our community) and opened 33,000 acres of land for public recreation.

At a time when Truckee’s resident population can balloon from 16,103 to over 35,000 on a summer weekend, we all benefit from their focus on improving our community’s environmental impact while providing recreational opportunities, safety for our pets and open space for our enjoyment.

WHAT’S NEXT There is considerable work yet to be done and these non-profits have ambitious “to do” lists. Fifty large-scale watershed projects are on the drawing board over the next decade to address drought, flooding and altered habitat triggered by climate change and our increasing population.

Eighteen thousand acres of headwater meadows and montane forests still need to be preserved as open space. This land is essential for habitat protection and regional water supply as well as protecting Truckee’s viewsheds, character, and recreation opportunities.

New trail construction is needed to link neighborhoods in our community and provide safer, non-motorized opportunity for commute and play. One trail in the works will ultimately be 116 miles long!

The Truckee River is a precious natural resource.

Your tax-deductible donation to the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund can help protect it.

26

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

Serving Truckee/Lake Tahoe Residential • Commercial

Quality Workmanship, Cleanliness & Customer satisfaCtion DAVE PARKER

New parks in the Downtown Truckee corridor are being built to provide public green space while promoting education on the local creek ecosystem.

And for our pets, 2,000 low cost spay/neuter surgeries will be performed and an additional 3,000 homeless dogs and cats will need to be rescued.

interior and exterior specializing in staining Wood restoration superior finish painting remodels and new Construction

530.550.7938

po Box 11107, truckee, Ca 96162 BONDED & INSURED • CA LIC #764916

HOW YOU CAN HELP There are so many ways to help restore our environment and prevent further damage. Some are physical—join a tail crew, remove invasive weeds; some are scientific—monitor water quality, count aquatic insects; some are for love—adopt a pet, teach kindness to animals; some are educational—attend a guided bird watch, learn about the ecosystem; and some are political—share your voice at community meetings or join a board of a non-profit organization that supports your passion for conservation, Truckee heritage or animal welfare.

Whether you actively volunteer or you come to Truckee simply for the all too rare vacation, you can still contribute by making a gift to the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund (TDGF). Working through the expertise of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, TDGF will apply your tax-deductible donation to grants for the non-profits that work so hard to keep our environment and animals healthy. Tahoe Donner property owners have terrific potential to do great things for our community.

Find out how at tahoedonner.com/giving-fund.

WITH APPRECIATION TO THE FOLLOWING FOR SHARING THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND GOALS FOR THIS ARTICLE: Stephanie Nistler, Executive Director, Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe Perry Norris, Executive Director, Truckee Donner Land Trust Allison Pedley, Executive Director, Truckee Trails Foundation Janet Phillips, President, Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway Ursula Riina, Development Director, Mountain Area Preservation Lisa Wallace, Executive Director, Truckee River Watershed Council

Sip. Sa vor. Smile.

41ST S OR OPTIMIST WINE +

R E STAUR AN T FAIR E FU N D-R A I S E R

SATURDAY JUNE 6TH | 5:00 TO 7:30 P.M. COYOTE MOON GOLF COURSE | 10685 NORTHWOODS BLVD. | TRUCKEE

Wine + Beer Tasting | Souvenir Wine Glass | Music by Green Weather Culinary Delights Prepared by Area Restaurants + Caterers RAFFLE WITH TWO MAJOR PRIZES | $40 TICKET MAJOR SILENT AUCTION WITH ITEMS WORTH THOUSANDS

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

Information: Contact Nancy Davis at 530.550.1433 or visit SITruckeeDonner.org

tahoedonner.com |

27

BULLETIN BOARD

TOWN OF TRUCKEE YARD WASTE DISPOSAL Ongoing drought, warmer weather and dry vegetation continue to increase the risk of local wild fires. In order to prepare, Truckee homeowners are encouraged to visit the website readyforwildfire.org to learn more on preparing for a fire emergency.

One of the most important steps residents can take to improve the chance of their home surviving a forest fire is to create defensible space around the home. This means eliminating or reducing fuel sources. Fuel is everything that could feed a fire, such as branches, twigs, dead wood, shrubs, pine needles, and pine cones.

The Town of Truckee is providing residents with two cost effective options to remove large bulk piles of vegetative waste through spring cleanup and defensible space activities. Both options completely eliminate the fuels from the property, which is an important step in fire preparedness. These methods include: 1. Onsite Reduced Cost Dumpsters. Dumpsters are available May, June and July only for $60 each. Dumpsters are easy to use; simply call Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal at 530-583-7800 and make a reservation today. Dumpsters are available in limited quantities and are expected to sell out.

Dumpsters are delivered to your home on a Friday and retrieved the following Wednesday. Bags are not permitted; simply fill the dumpster with loose vegetative material including dead wood, branches, twigs, brush, pine needles and cones.

2. Free Drop-Off of Yard Waste at the Eastern Regional Landfill (ERL). ERL is located three miles outside of the Town of Truckee on Cabin Creek Road. Take Highway 89 toward Squaw Valley and turn right on Cabin Creek. Deliver up to six yards of vegetative material at no cost any time Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Identification is required and multiple trips are permitted. No bags; be prepared to unload your own material.

28

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

In 2009, the Town of Truckee implemented the curbside green bag program. This program was intended to provide residents with the opportunity to dispose of small amounts of vegetative waste generated throughout the summer season. Before long, huge piles of green bags started appearing in neighborhoods all over Truckee. This was the result of the green bags being used as the primary method of disposing of yard waste for residents — and even landscapers — who were creating defensible space or conducting their spring yard clean up where large bulky amounts of material is generated. Because only four green bags are collected per week, it can take weeks — if not months — for these piles to be removed from neighborhoods.

In an effort to address the fact that many residents are unable to self-haul yard waste to ERL, the Town of Truckee implemented the reduced cost dumpster program in 2014.

Both the on-site dumpsters and free drop-off program are intended to be inexpensive and convenient methods for homeowners to create defensible space and clean up their yards without leaving large piles of green bags, loaded with fuel, in front of their homes all summer long.

With two great options in place for disposing of large bulky amounts of yard waste as a result of spring clean-up and defensible space activities, the Town of Truckee began exploring opportunities to improve the curbside collection program and address several concerns with the program that have popped up since the program’s inception. These concerns include large, unattractive piles of green bags, the upward and uncontrolled trajectory of program costs, worker safety and morale, and the generation of over 15 tons of plastic annually.

In an effort to resolve these issues, town staff, in collaboration with the hauler, suggested switching out the green bags with 96-gallon reusable rolling carts. The carts would have been collected every other week, at least initially, using the hauler’s automated

collection equipment. Although residents wishing to participate in the program would have needed to sign up and pay a one-time cart delivery fee, they would have avoided the ongoing cost of the green bags.

In an effort to engage the community, Town of Truckee staff released a survey and received over 1,122 responses. Of those responding, 54.22 percent would prefer reusable carts, 13.79 percent would not need the service, and 31.99 percent did not prefer switching to carts and preferred green bags. The survey also allowed for open-ended comments with some of the primary concerns expressed being the inability to store a cart, the unsightliness of carts in the neighborhoods and the preference to leave green bags at the curb prior to collection. Although carts would resolve all the issues stated above, the Town decided to hold off on making any recommendations to switch green bags with carts at this time.

For summer 2015 residents can continue using green bags for their yard maintenance; homeowners are being asked to refrain from placing out more than four bags at the curb a time. The large piles of green bags are unsightly and take weeks to be collected. If you plan on generating a large amount of yard waste, or if you are unable to place bags at the curb on the day of collection only, skip the bags altogether and choose one of the other disposal programs. This will ensure that the fuels are completely removed from your property, as well as the unsightliness of bags sitting at the curb, making our neighborhoods more fire safe.

The Town of Truckee encourages public involvement. Stay informed by signing up for the Town’s e-notification system at townoftruckee.com/living-in-truckee. Check the Solid Waste and Recycling Division to get information on future proposed program changes.

Questions may be directed to Nichole Dorr at the Town of Truckee at 530-582-2909 or ndorr@townoftruckee.com.

BULLETIN BOARD

REMINDERS FROM ASO As the building season has started earlier again this year, the Architectural Standards Office would like to take this opportunity to remind our members and contractors of some of the requirements for building in Tahoe Donner.

Construction Hours and Work Site Requirements: • Construction start and stop times: Construction hours are limited to 7 a.m. to 7

Architectural Standards Office Compliance Officer at 530-587-9406.

Temporary Snow Shelter Removal: Now that the weather is warming and any

p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to

lingering snow has melted, please remove any

7 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays.

remaining snow protection devices, such as

The upcoming holidays, recognized by this

plywood covering windows and entry ways.

provision, are Memorial Day, Fourth of July,

Before storing them, please take the time to

Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christ-

put a coat of paint or stain on them to keep

mas Day.

them looking consistent with the rest of your

• Do not park on other people’s property or

house.

Exterior Changes:

block the street.

• Deliveries should be made only to the prop-

As a reminder, if you are doing any exterior work on your home, please call our office prior

erty under construction.

• Be considerate of neighbors and reduce loud noises as much as possible.

• Please play your music at a reasonable level,

to commencement and give us a description of the proposed work. Often the work is “likefor-like” and a quick call can help us update

not loud enough to be heard over the noise

your file with these notes. If the work changes

of tools.

the exterior of your house and/or garage with

• Keep construction sites tidy.

material or color changes, or new landscaping

• Store materials and scrap neatly on your

will be constructed on your lot, please contact

TRUCKEE CLEANUP DAY COMING UP JUNE 6 THIS IS AN ANNUAL TRUCKEE TOWN-WIDE EVENT FOR RESIDENTS TO FOCUS ON CLEANING UP THEIR STREETS AND COMMUNITY, FOLLOWED BY A HUGE FAMILY BBQ AT THE REGIONAL PARK IN DOWNTOWN TRUCKEE. TAHOE DONNER PARTICIPANTS SHOULD MEET AT THE SNOWTECH OFFICE, 17356 NORTHWOODS BLVD., AT 8 A.M. TO CHECK IN WITH EVENT ORGANIZERS AND TO GET TRUCKEE DAY T-SHIRTS AND INSTRUCTIONS. FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO TRUCKEEDAY.ORG.

our office to see if a permit is required from

property.

• Make sure the required sanitary facilities

Tahoe Donner. Please remind your contractor

are onsite prior to construction and that

that all new exterior work including land-

your employees use them.

scaping projects requires permits from both Tahoe Donner and possibly also the Town of

If you have concerns about a construction site, please address it directly to the contrac-

Truckee.

If you have any questions please stop by our

tor or the owner. Most are more than happy

office, contact us at 530-587-9407 or send an

to take care of any concerns quickly and

email to aso@tahoedonner.com.

simply. If your concern is not resolved with this approach, please report concerns such as garbage, litter, loud radios, etc. and refer to the

SHERYL WALKER | ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS OFFICE MANAGER

HOMES ON THE RISE The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed the following plans in March 2015 : Unit/Lot

Street Address

Square Feet

Project

01/258

12345 Bernese Ln

2454

House

03/006

14047 Northwoods Bl

1500

House

10/191

13066 Roundhill Dr

3022

House

07/072

13553 Hillside Dr

3747

House

tahoedonner.com |

29

NEW EMERGENCY DROUGHT REGULATIONS FOR CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR BROWN ISSUES DROUGHT EXECUTIVE ORDER; TRUCKEE DONNER PUD TAKES STEPS TO COMPLY The California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) recently adopted new emergency drought regulations and the Truckee Donner Public Utility District (Truckee Donner PUD) has taken action to implement these regulations. Compliance is mandatory and there are provisions for penalties and fines.

The State of California and Governor Brown have chosen to implement the new drought regulations in two phases. The first is known and detailed below; phase two involves the Governor’s recent drought executive order; the regulations are to be determined and will likely require additional restrictions.

The key impacts to Truckee Donner PUD customers from the SWRCB’s 2015 emergency drought regulations currently include: • Restriction on irrigation with potable water of ornamental landscapes and turf to every other day. This applies to all Truckee Donner PUD potable water customers; and • Prohibitions for all Californians, punishable by a fine of up to $500 for each day in which a violation occurs, against: • Runoff when irrigating with potable water; • Using hoses with no shutoff nozzles to wash cars; • Using potable water to wash sidewalks and driveways;

• Using potable water in decorative water features that do not recirculate the water; • Using outdoor irrigation during and 48 hours following measurable precipitation (NEW); • Restaurants and other food service establishments can only serve water to customers upon request (NEW); and • Hotels and motels must provide guests with the option of not having towels and linens laundered daily (NEW).

“It is important to note that, although the Truckee region is in a drought, Truckee Donner PUD is not experiencing a water supply shortage,” said Michael Holley, Truckee Donner PUD general manager. “That being said, long-term drought will impact us all and we must all comply with the mandatory state emergency drought regulations and do our part to conserve.”

Enforcement of Regulations: To help with enforcement of drought regulations, the Truckee Donner PUD has established a formal procedure to receive complaints regarding observations of noncompliant incidents. Staff will investigate complaints and take action where appropriate. Complaints must be in writing and can be filed at tdpud.org (click on the drought link) or delivered to Truckee Don-

ner PUD at 11570 Donner Pass Rd., Truckee, Calif. 96161.

Governor Brown’s Drought Executive Order: In a separate action, Governor Brown issued a drought executive order April 1, 2015 which directs the SWRCB to implement mandatory water reductions across the state to reduce water usage by 25 percent. The SWRCB will need to adopt additional regulations to implement the drought executive order and the exact impacts to Truckee Donner PUD customers are yet to be determined.

The additional SWRCB regulations to implement Governor Brown’s drought executive order will not be considered for approval until early May and will likely take effect in mid-May of this year. When adopted, the additional regulations will likely require more stringent restrictions on outdoor irrigation with potable water.

“There is no doubt that everyone will need to do their part to help conserve water and meet the state mandates,” said Steven Poncelet, Truckee Donner PUD public information and conservation manager. “Governor Brown’s most recent drought executive order has created significant uncertainty and we are asking our customers to stay tuned for additional information and restrictions.”

The Truckee Donner PUD conservation department is available to help customers save water through a water-efficient toilet rebate/ exchange, customer leak-repair rebate, free handouts of low-flow plumbing fixtures and hose-spray nozzles, as well as conservation garden concepts. There are many opportunities to save water and money and live more comfortably. Visit tdpud.org/departments/conservation for full program details. For additional information, call 530-582-3931 or visit the TDPUD’s conservation department at 11570 Donner Pass Rd. in Truckee.

30

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS BOARD MEETING RECAP MARCH 27, 2015 Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0 • Delinquent homeowner defensible space work • Trout Creek Rec Center - Dridek mat flooring replacement • TDA Giving Fund committee appointment • The Lodge kitchen repair Presentation and Consideration Auditor’s Report – Fiscal Year 2014: Approved 5-0 Following a presentation by Bobbi Hales of Gilbert Associates, Inc., the board accepted the 2014 audit as presented.

Architectural Standards Fees: Approved 5-0 The board approved ASC Fees that have been out for the required 45day member comment period.

Snowmaking Equipment at the Downhill Ski Area: Approved 4-1 (Director Wulff No) The board received a presentation from staff regarding options for consideration relative to a proposed development fund project to install snowmaking on the Snowbird run and Learning Center at the Downhill Ski Area, as requested by the board and developed by the General Plan Committee. Following discussion, the board approved proceeding with the permitting, purchase and installation of snowmaking capability for the above described area with the least impact to the community. Final contract award and purchase is subject to normal board approval processes.

Executive Session: Approved 5-0 • The board approved a 2015 loss recovery plan as briefed at the March 27, 2015 regular board meeting to address the lack of winter revenue.

• The board appointed director of facilities and risk management to be the board’s duly appointed representative in a case management conference for Tahoe Donner Association versus McCrary.

• The board authorized the continued engagement of the law firm Downey Brand LLP to represent the association in Tahoe Donner Association versus McCrary.

• The board authorized the engagement of the law firm of Somach Simmons & Dunn.

These summaries are intended for general information purposes only. The minutes are available at tahoedonner.com, upon request in the General Manager’s office, or by calling 530-587-9431. A copy of the minutes and current agenda are posted outside the Member Services Office in Northwoods Clubhouse.

Director of Finance and Accounting Report: Approved 5-0 The board approved the unaudited preliminary February 2015 financials.

Forestry Operations 10-Year Management Plan: No Action The board was provided with a presentation by forester Bill Houdyschell regarding the forestry department’s 10-year Forest & Defensible Space Management Plan.

Summer Trail Pass Program: No Action The board was provided with a presentation by Director of Facilities and Risk Management Annie Rosenfeld on the possible implementation of a summer public trail pass program.

Strategic Plan Goals: Approved 5-0 The board approved the association’s strategic plan and strategic goals for 2015-2020.

Board Meeting Date: No Action The board discussed the pros and cons of moving the board’s monthly meetings from Saturdays to Fridays. tahoedonner.com |

31

EAST AFRICA

Beverly and George and Carmen Mackey, lling safa ri to Clint Holdsworth during a thri sed the Great East Africa. The group wit nes ya (Masai Mig ration from camps in Ken .

Ma ra) and Tanzania (Serengeti)

COLORADO

Bill Dragoo and friends in Hayden, Colo. Left to right: Justin, Rick, Marv, Bill, Greg and mascot all share the Tahoe Donner News.

ZAMBIA Don and Jan Routh on a safari in the South Luangwa Valley with cape buffalo in the background.

YELLOWSTONE Ma ry and Fred Zapponi enjoy nationa l parks.

visiting our Email your “Where in the World� photos to: comdep@tahoedonner.com. Please submit only .jpeg files of 300 dpi or higher for printing. Photos must include a copy of TD News.

Please list the names of everyone in the picture, where and when it was taken, and a short description of your captured experience. Note: please be patient; it could take up to six months to see your photo published due to a large number of submissions.

32

| Tahoe Donner News | April 2015

Happy Mother’s Day Tahoe Donner “Moms”!

New Listing & Pending – In Contract in 10 Days!

Adorable Cabin Nestled in the Woods

13894Copenhagen.com

Remodeled cabin with lots of light and windows, well maintained and awaiting its new owner! Nestled on a flat, sunny lot on Copenhagen Drive. Perfect for entertaining with a sunny morning front deck and private rear deck overlooking the forest setting. Offering 3 bedrooms, $569,000 3 baths, loft and beautiful master suite, this delightful cabin offers everything you need and has super curb appeal.

New Listing & Pending – In Contract in 4 Days!

Spacious Classic Ski Cabin 11401ChamonixRoad.com Filled with light in one of Tahoe Donner’s nicest, lower elevation neighborhoods! Offering a fabulous open great room - HUGE windows, spacious dining & galley kitchen.

New carpet, heating system, very well maintained. Big 2 car garage, walk to Trout Creek Rec Center! WOW! $515,000

Luxurious Chalet Living 11769TundraDrive.com Comfort abounds in this custom 3,146± s.f. chalet nestled in one of Tahoe Donner’s lower elevation neighborhoods. Designed to offer the perfect blend of comfortable mountain living, you’ll enjoy soaring ceilings, rustic log accents, lots of light and an amazing setting overlooking open space and forest. $1,080,000

Chase International’s Realtor of the Year 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014 ®

Over $100,000,000 in Tahoe Donner Sales Since 2009.

Alison Knows Tahoe Donner.

Buying or Selling? Contact Alison Today!

Alison Elder 530 582 8103

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

tahoedonner.com |

1

Tahoe Donner Single Family Home Sales

1st quarter 2014 vs. 1st quarter 2015

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

1st quarter 2014 $750,000– $999,999

$0– $499,999

18%

33%

$500,000– $749,999

49%

1st quarter 2015 $1,000,000 and higher

$0– $499,999

5%

27%

$750,000– $999,999

$500,000– $749,999

27%

41%

$0– 11 Sold Listings $499,999 $384,227Average Price

$0– 11 Sold Listings $499,999 $410,545 Average Price

$500,000– 16 Sold Listings $749,999 $633,781 Average Price

$500,000– 17 Sold Listings $749,999 $599,758 Average Price

$750,000– 6 Sold Listings $999,999 $915,333 Average Price

$750,000– 11 Sold Listings $999,999 $866,818 Average Price

$1,000,000 0 Sold Listings and higher n/a Average Price

$1,000,000 2 Sold Listings and higher $1,525,000 Average Price

80 Average Days On Market

73 Average Days On Market

61 Average Days On Market

n/a Average Days On Market

79 Average Days On Market

68 Average Days On Market

94 Average Days On Market

186 Average Days On Market

There are currently 63 single family homes on the market in Tahoe Donner, ranging in price from $334,000 to $1,689,000, which represents less than a 5 month inventory. Loan interest rates are still historically low, so whether it’s Buyers looking for their dream vacation homes, or possibly even Sellers who may wish to upsize or downsize, we anticipate this spring/summer season will be RED HOT. Source: Tahoe Sierra Multiple Listing Service (TSMLS) as of April 6, 2015.

the rice team MORTGAGES IN CA/NV

www.TheRiceTeam.com | 530.582.9991

2

| Tahoe Donner News | May 2015

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

530.587.7444

DicksonTruckee.com