Tahoe Donner News October 2015 by Tahoe Donner Association

OCTOBER 2015 tahoedonner.com |

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

IS TRUCKEE HAUNTED? Spooky stories endure about Truckee. Is it haunted, or just the result of an active imagination? You decide. P18

MEET THE SENIOR TEAM Miguel Sloane, director of operations, is a familiar face at Tahoe Donner.

OPERATING

$1,074

P06

29%

2016 BUDGET AND YOUR ANNUAL ASSESSMENT

56%

Association’s annual assessment.

P22

13% 2%

Factors affecting Tahoe Donner

DRAFT $1,900 ANNUAL ASSESSMENT FOR 2016 PER OWNER DISTRIBUTION

ENT

2015 PHOTO CONTEST See the winners of our annual contest in the categories of nature, action, and people.

P24

DEPARTMENTS

TAKE NOTE

GM’s Message The Strategic Plan driving goals

Passes on Sale Don’t miss out on the perks and benefits!

Monthly Calendar See a listing of October events

Fall Golf Come out for our fall promos and deals

Forestry Burn permits and slash pile info

Winter Programs Act quickly - our kids’ programs fill up

Giving Fund Waltman makes donation

Hikes of the Season Find out where to hike or bike this fall

ASO Reminder Dogs must be leashed

Truckee River Day Help the environment this October

Board meeting A recap of the August meeting

Trail Connect An update on the Trout Creek Trail

Where in the World

Tennis Tahoe Donner’s tennis teams compete regionally

is TD News? TD News travels the world

FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER’S DESK

VOL. 16, NO. 10 OCTOBER 2015

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Steve Miller, smiller@tahoedonner.com

Vice President

Jim Stang, jstang@tahoedoner.com

Treasurer

Jeff Bonzon, jbonzon@tahoedoner.com

Secretary

Courtney Murrell, cmurrell@tahoedoner.com

Director

Ron Wulff, rwulff@tahoedoner.com

Board of Directors

board@tahoedonner.com

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

This fall continues to be an amazing season

This year the board of directors updated

in the mountains with brisk mornings, warm

our strategic plan, identifying four key driving

afternoons, and cool evenings, often consid-

goals for the next five years:

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

ered by those who live in this area as their favorite time of year. It also marks the start

1. Execute the board-approved capital plan on

96161

comdep@tahoedonner.com

of our 2016 budget planning cycle leading toward a solid map for next year’s programs

Advertising Sales

and activities, which impacts the annual

Creative Concepts Media + Marketing is

assessment and is conducted with the board of

the exclusive advertising representative. Phone 530-582-4100.

director’s annual guidance. The 2016 budget process includes a careful annual validation

time and within budget. 2. Balance operating revenue and expenses with the need to provide first-class services for members, member guests, and where appropriate, the public. 3. Execute effective approaches to maintain-

and review of existing program offerings,

ing the association’s architectural, cov-

Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive

along with board-approved strategic initia-

enants, and communication standards.

service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any

tives to benefit the membership. Currently,

Publishing Information

unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an infringement of that service mark right and is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in

while we continue to see overall pressures on the budget and annual assessment from many

this publication does not constitute an

fronts, including minimum wage increases,

endorsement or recommendation by Tahoe

worker’s compensation insurance increases,

Donner Association or its board of directors of the products, services, or views contained

and cost of goods increases, I believe they are

therein.

manageable with a balanced approach in our

Tahoe Donner News (ISSN 1550-6061) is

service offerings, and an equitable relationship

the official monthly publication of Tahoe

between our assessed and non-assessed rev-

Donner Association, which is located at 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161. Each membership parcel receives one sub-

enue. Thankfully, after the lost revenues from our difficult winter, refocused staff efforts,

scription to a domestic address. Additional

better than forecasted member utilization of

subscriptions are available at the cost of $25

our amenities, and budget recovery efforts, we

each. Cost to produce and distribute this publication is offset by advertising revenues. Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and

are back on budget for the year going into this winter. This has resulted in an overall positive

additional mailing offices. Member letters to

membership equity balance in the operating

Tahoe Donner are published in the Members

fund.

section of tahoedonner.com, where publishing guidelines are available.

4. Establish a proactive approach to maintaining the health of our natural resources and defensible space. These four goals, in addition to their supporting goals, can be found on the board of director’s website under the members tab of the main tahoedonner.com homepage. Establishing these priorities assists me in focusing our staff’s efforts in order to deliver the service level and overall quality community our membership desires. Specific to the first goal, the general plan committee has just finished a rather robust effort to solicit member feedback to develop an update to the long-term General Plan, our Capital Development Fund Plan to reinvest in our amenities and overall infra(Continued on p. 4)

October

SEASON ENDINGS & AND CLOSURES CLOSING DATES:

FOR ADDITIONAL OCTOBER EVENTS SEE

LET’S GET TOGETHER ON PAGE 10

Sunday, October 4 Beach Club Marina Bikeworks

FA L L F E S T IVA L !

Sunday, October 11 Tennis Center

Sunday, October 18

Golf Course & Driving Range

Trout Creek Recreation Pool Closed for the season. Recreation and family swim hours will be available in the first lane of the lap pool from 3–7 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m.–7 p.m. on weekends through Memorial Day weekend 2016.

ALL MONTH

Satu rday , Oc to be r 10 to11 5A.MP.M. .

Joi n us for one of our big ges t eve nts of the yea r! The re is som eth ing for eve ryo ne at o ur har ves t fest ival . Enj oy a pum pki n patch, a rts and cra ft ven dor s, “Do ggi e Dip ” con test in the swi mm ing poo l, live enterta inm ent , k ids car niva l are a wit h gam es and foo d, a s wel l as a bou nce hou se, clim bin g wal l, fall bee r sele ctio ns, BBQ and mo re! A full itin era ry of fun and pric ing is ava ilab le onl ine . JOI N US! Nor thw ood s Clu bho use , 1150 9 Nor thw ood s Blv d., Tru cke e

Season Passes and Programs On Sale See on our passholder perks and benefits (page 4) and sign up for a winter of fun (page 8).

ALL MONTH

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

OCT. 4

OCT 16-17

Monday Night Football Specials

Kayak and SUP storage removal

High School Regional Tournament

Catch the game at Pizza on the Hill and catch some great appetizer deals too! Above, baked taquitos, served with pico de gallo. See page 16.

Remember, we do not provide winter storage at the Beach Club Marina, so you will need to remove your items by closing day, Oct. 4.

Come out to cheer on our local kids and watch the up and coming stars as they vie for a spot at the state championships. See page 13. tahoedonner.com |

(Continued from p. 2) structure for our semi-private resort com-

most popular program to return this summer

Center in time for our 2015/2016 winter oper-

munity. The overall results of the survey will

was the free Tahoe Donner shuttle to Truckee

ating season. We will be announcing plans for

be published shortly after staff, general plan

Thursdays — now averaging over 500 riders

a grand opening for the entire membership.

committee, and board of directors fully review

each week.

Plans for our improved equestrian campus

the data with our third party consultant. The

Another important indicator of the health

have also been reviewed by Nevada County

initial results indicate a strong ownership

of Tahoe Donner is the increase of new

and will be undertaken in 2016 around the

participation in the survey with over 1,500

construction in our community, along with

normal operating season as finalized and

respondents, a contribution ratio similar to the

existing home sales and overall community

approved by the board of directors this winter.

ownership interest.

architectural standards. Currently, of the 6,471

This summer we’ve seen record numbers

The Town of Truckee Trails and Bikeway

privately owned residentially zoned proper-

Master Plan trail no. 13 from Tahoe Donner

of members and their guest participating in

ties within the Tahoe Donner subdivision,

to downtown, now known as the Trout

the wide variety of offerings at Tahoe Don-

250 homes are scheduled to be inspected for

Creek Trail, is almost complete! See page 17

ner. There are many indicators that value and

compliance with our architectural standards

for an update, and keep an eye out for the

utilization of our amenities and programs at

via a grid-based system each year, which will

ribbon cutting ceremony and opportunity to

Tahoe Donner are top among the meaning-

eventually cover every home. Additionally, the

ride and walk this new community connection

ful measurements. Utilization is composed

association executes a transfer-based home

to downtown Truckee before the snow hits.

of countless exchanges and interactions that

inspection program for community architec-

I want to thank the entire Town of Truckee

include our budget recovery program, sold-out

tural standards – which is often incorrectly

team who has led the planning, implementa-

day camps, aquatics classes, golf rounds, beach

referred to as a point of sale inspection pro-

tion, and oversight efforts on this amazing

rentals, mountain bike rentals, lunch and din-

gram. Now, completing our second full year

project for our community. Thank you!

ner at the Lodge Restaurant & Pub and Pizza

with this program, versus the old complaint-

on the Hill, tennis lessons, fitness classes,

based program, we are inspecting close to

Chairlift at the Downhill Ski Area. There you’ll

concert on the driving range, along with

1,000 homes each year. This is significant

notice a new pine “tree.” However, this mono-

many more programs and services utilized

in maintaining our homeowner association

pine is masking our new cell tower (thank you,

by the membership, their guests, and some

architectural standards, and is now a core

American Tower Corporation) with T-Mobile

public usage. And, these do not include the

part of our strategic plan, and ultimately a

as the anchor tenant. As the project gets pow-

countless opportunities exercised by mem-

service to our community in maintaining the

ered up, I hope all our networks see an amaz-

bers who enjoy our trail system, bingo nights,

established standards of the community and

ing improvement in coverage.

free concerts at Northwoods Clubhouse, and

property values.

movie nights, just to name a few of the more popular activities and programs. Perhaps the

Substantial progress has been underway

er perk s and Tha t’s right, our seas on pass hold t excl uWan 16! ben efits retu rn for 201 5-20 How you? sive deal s and discounts just for Purc hase abou t free bies and spec ial offe rs? ive: rece and 30 . Nov your adu lt pass by * • Two free ticket vouc hers • Two 50% off adu lt coup ons ive one • Junior/s enio r pass hold ers rece coup on off 50% one and ticket vouc her* ts • Food and reta il discoun ss* • Com plim enta ry Snowplay acce

*Some restric tions apply.

See Taho edon ner. com for com plet

e deta ils.. .

But hur ry! pric es go up Dec. 1

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

ROBB ETNYRE | GENERAL MANAGER

to finalize our new Alder Creek Adventure

SE AS ON SK I PA SS ES ON SA LE NO W EA RLY BU YE RS GE T DE AL S GA LO RE !

...

Lastly, take a look at the top of Eagle Rock

N S EW M AN OW!K F IN 2 01 O R G 5 -1 6

NEW MEMBER MEET AND GREET, NOVEMBER 28 After the September 5 event was so well attended, Member Services is scheduling another during Thanksgiving weekend. If you have recently purchased a residence in Tahoe Donner, please plan on joining us for the opportunity to meet board members, mingle with other new members, and learn more about the association. The evening will include hosted appetizers and a glass of wine or a beer, along with a raffle and a chance to win great prizes.

T H E 2 0 1 5 - 1 6 W O O D W A R D TA H O E

BU NKER PAS S U N L I M I T E D AC C E S S TO T H E B U N K E R

DATE: Saturday, Nov. 28 TIME: 5 - 7 p.m. WHERE: The Lodge Restaurant & Pub RSVP: Please RSVP by Nov. 20 to Member Services; call 530-587-9400, then select option 0.

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 Tahoe Donner Campground 587-9462

Beach Club Marina

campground@tahoedonner.com

587-9460 marina@tahoedonner.com

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

O N LY $ 2 9 9

W O O D W A R D TA H O E . C O M

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, Art King

aking156@att.net

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 |

PROFILE

MEE T THE SENIOR TEA M: MIGUEL SLOANE, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS BY GRETCHEN SPROEHNLE Miguel Sloane could quite possibly win

Sloane is also one of

the award for the nicest guy at Tahoe Don-

Tahoe Donner’s longest-

ner. With a helping hand and a smile at the

serving employees. After

ready, Tahoe Donner’s director of operations

graduating from UCLA, he landed in Truckee

is the behind-the-scenes man for almost every

and found a home to rent in Tahoe Donner.

Tahoe Donner event and amenity.

Hired on in 1994, he has held numerous jobs

For such a big job, Sloane’s style is low-key.

at Tahoe Donner prior to his current position.

Quietly but effectively, he leads by example

Cashier, rental fitter, sailing instructor, ski

and directs all the managers at both ski areas,

mechanic, assistant marina manager, rental

Snowplay, the equestrian center, the tennis

shop manager, marina manager, rental and

center, Bikeworks, Trout Creek Recreation

retail shop manager, ski area manager, ame-

Center, and the campground. He oversees day

nity manager, and several seasonal mainte-

camps and aquatics programs, and in addition,

nance worker positions highlight his time here

he is the driving force behind most of Tahoe

at Tahoe Donner; perhaps it is this jack-of-all-

Donner’s major events, including the Summer

trades experience that uniquely qualifies him

Concert on the Green, Fall Festival, Light Up

to be our director of operations.

the Night, the new Summer Finale BBQ, plus

Robb Etnyre, Tahoe Donner’s general man-

countless other smaller events, such as the

ager, calls Sloane the “director of fun.” Indeed,

Fourth of July parade and smaller concerts

Sloane says the most rewarding part of his

and BBQs.

job is seeing people have a good time at our amenities and events. Originally from Orinda, Calif., Sloane lived in Tahoe Donner for 18 years and now resides in Reno with his three children (“plus two dogs and two rats”), helping out at their

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

TOP: Meet Miguel Sloane, Tahoe Donner’s director of operations. BOTTOM LEFT: Sloane, pictured here at our Summer Concert on the Green, oversees Tahoe Donner’s biggest annual events. BOTTOM: In his free time, Sloane takes to the water as often as possible. Hey, it’s part of his job!

schools when he can. When he’s not hanging out with his kids, he can be found either out on the water windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or sailing; or on the trails on his mountain bike. In the winter, you’ll find him out skate skiing at the Cross Country Ski Area. As one would imagine, handling the many facets of virtually every aspect of Tahoe Donner’s operations can be stressful at times. How does Sloane keep it all in perspective? “I just don’t get too worked up about anything. The sun will rise tomorrow, no matter what happens today.” These are wise words for any line of work, to be sure. “Also,” the family man added with a smile, “the kids help a lot.”

FALL GOLF AT TAHOE DONNER Some say Fall is the best time to play golf and we have to agree! Out on the fairways, the air is fresher, the breeze is crisper and the course is in the best condition of the year. Tahoe Donner Golf Course, as always, offers

including cart. Tahoe Donner Golf Course will remain open through October 18. So don’t pack up your clubs yet— come on out for some fall golf at Tahoe Donner Golf Course and enjoy the season on our beautiful

one of the best values in the Tahoe Truckee

mountain course with affordable prices and

area. You can save money by taking advantage

majestic scenery.

of our Fall Drive and Dine golf special (below), or save even more with Tahoe Donner’s after-

For more information, call 530.587.9443 or see tahoedonner.com/golf.

noon and twilight rates, starting at just $69

DRIVE AND DINE GOLF SPECIAL Don’t miss this spectacular fall deal! We are offering a Drive and Dine golf special through the end of the golf season.* Starting at $67 for Tahoe Donner members, $77 for guests, or $87 for public, you can play 18 holes with a shared cart and get a $20 food credit at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. Valid for golf play any day after 1 p.m. daily; food credit must be used the same day. For more information, call the golf pro shop at 530-587-9443. *Closing day is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 18, 2015.

ON THE COVER: These apples are ready for some caramel… are you ready for our Fall Festival? Don’t miss one of Tahoe Donner’s biggest annual events – it’s fun for the entire family. It’s all happening at Northwoods Clubhouse on Oct. 10, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. - see you there!

tahoedonner.com |

WINTER PROGRAMS

TAHOE DONNER’S WINTER PROGRA MS OFFER VA LUE, CONV ENIENCE, FUN We’re offering a wide variety of programs this 2015-2016 ski season for children of all ages. Our

4-6 years old who can already ski

with a ski uniform and a season

or ride at a level IV or above.

pass to Tahoe Donner.

Rec Ski and Snowboard

programs are conveniently offered

Teams: Teams meet Sundays

all week long at various times to

from 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. This

fit your family’s busy schedule.

program is designed for 7 – 13

DOWNHILL PROGRAMS TD Tykes: A weekly ski or snowboard school program

CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAMS TD Nordic Kids: Our highly

year old skiers and snowboarders

popular after-school skiing pro-

who want to improve their skills

gram for Kindergarten through

Weekend Junior Racers: This Sunday morning ski program is designed to help kids improve and learn race skills, for intermediate skiers ages 7-12 who are comfortable skating and striding blue trails. Junior Biathlon: An introduc-

in a fun environment while devel-

5th grade. You may sign your child

tion to the winter Olympic sport

oping new friendships.

up for either the Wednesday or

of biathlon - the combination of

Thursday group, or choose both

skiing and rifle marksmanship -

days!

for children.

Ski and Snowboard Race

designed for 3-6 year olds, plus a

Teams: Established for skiers

separate program for Kindergart-

and riders ages 7-13 who want to

Midweek Junior Racers: An

ners ages 5-6. The program is a

take their skills to the next level.

after-school ski program to help

January (except the ski and snow-

great way for your child to begin

The teams will participate in the

kids improve and learn race skills

board race teams, which begin in

their skiing or riding experience.

Tahoe League race series, and

to prepare them for success with

December). Please call 530-587-

The program focuses on fun and

other events in the Tahoe region.

the middle school team. Open to

9400, ext. 0 for more information,

improvement.

The team fee includes all race

intermediate skiers 3rd-5th grade

or to sign up, got to ShopTD at

fees and lift tickets to the respec-

who are comfortable skating and

tahoedonner.com/shop.

tive areas ($175-$245 value) along

striding blue trails.

Sunday Speedsters: A weekly program designed for children

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

Most programs begin in early

MOST PRO D UC T I V E FLE ET IN TAHOE DONNER No other company can clear as much snow per equipment hour.

SNOWTECH CLIENTS RECEIVE 10% OFF ALL SUMMER SERVICES SIGN UP FOR A CHANCE TO WIN SNOW REMOVAL OR A SUGAR BOWL SEASON PASS SNOWTECH DONATES $1 PER CLIENT TO THE TRUCKEE DONNER LAND TRUST

tahoedonner.com |

DON

NER

INFOR

S E RV I C M

C R E E RK T U O R T C ENT E R EC Y

I VAT E A M

Schedule ONN OE D TA H

online at tahoedonner.com / special-events.

TI ON R EC R EA

See a full schedule of events

RAMS &

Tickets and Pricing Entry into Fall Festival is free!

Fall Festival - Oct. 10, 2015 Join us for the sixth annual Fall

While select activities and entertainment are also free, wrist-

Festival, one of our biggest events

bands and a la carte tickets are

of the year! Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something for

available to enjoy all remaining

everyone at our harvest festival

carnival activities. Wristbands at

from arts and craft vendors, our

$20 each may be used all day long

annual doggie dip, live music,

repeatedly for select activities,

seasonal beer offerings, a carnival

but exclude food and drinks,

area for kids with arts, crafts,

merchandise, tie dye, face paint-

games and food.

ing and pony rides. As a bonus

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

O TA H

BER

UB L C A Free Shuttle Service! JOIN

BLIC AM

I VAT E A M

NER

U R SE O C ADDITIONAL EVENTS F L GO

throughout the season. Details of all our

some great perks and benefits for passhold-

NER

ON events, programs and clinics will be D posted on HOE

ers, including complimentary ticket vouchers

R B I K E WO

tahoedonner.com/crosscountry as details are IR

for friends and deals on retail and food and

RE EP finalized. N TA NER LS & R DON E O Subscribe to our cross country ski specific TA H

This popular event takes place every Thurs-

Fun events and clinics are being planned

IC purchase your pass Lfor the season! There are

BLIC AM

We can’t wait to see you at this year’s Fall

beverage all season long. See page 4 for more

day from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at Pizza on the Hill.

information.

Test your knowledge in a fun and competitive

Remember last year’s N E R season passes are

manner and you could win prizes!

DON

S AR Dlist IL F EG Uemail to get updates on opening plans,

OE being rolled TA H over to this season. However, you

AQ UAT I

Friday Family Movie Night

R N EFriday N Stop by Northwoods Clubhouse for E DO O H TA

do still need to sign this year’s release of liabilHE

T EaNfeaV E Family Movie Night every week. Enjoy L A I P E Cfam while enjoyS the tured G or PG film with

ity and get a new sticker to activate the pass.

ing dinner from Pizza on the Hill. The magic

Shop TD. For the best deal, early bird prices

AT T H E

To purchase, call Member Services at 530-587-9400, ext. 0 or purchase online on

starts at 6:30 p.m.

are good through the end of November.

BLIC AM

Custom multi-week programs for adults

from 11 a.m. – 5: 30 p.m.

AT T H E

events and specials. Just click on the subscribe button on the top right corner of tahoedonner. com and be sure to check the box for cross country news. See you on the trails!

SALLY JONES CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREA MANAGER

O TA H

UPCOMING EVENT Light Up the Night Returns on Nov. 28 Save the date! A Tahoe Donner favorite ONN OE D TA H

E BLIC AM

Did someone say El Niño? Some people know me as the ski area manager and others

EN n n is C e t “What is your upcoming R winter forecast?” My NNE E D Ois, “We T E Rsee when it hits O H standard answer will N TA E C N R IA the ground.” EQ U EST I have lived in Truckee most of

EV ENT L A I C E SP

NER

CS AQ UAT I AT T H E

E PU B L Iseen C A M the ups and downs of winmy life, so I’ve

ters. With two lean Mother Nature years, we are moving forward with snowmaking.

Snowmaking on the Way E Currently we’re installing a snowmaking AHO T

DON

B I K E WO

system that will help us cover our learning R

NER

R KS

EN EP R areas andO N our run. This will help TA L S & R N ESnowbird

D HOE

L I F EG UA

RDS

A operate and keep cohesion for the ski area Tus

business. With our new snowmaking system: BE HE AT T H E • Tahoe Donner aims to be the first U.S. ski area to utilize the silent PoleCat snowmakAT

OURS GOLF C

OUND TY

R CA M P G

I VAT E A M

Reindeer games area Santa’s arts and craft workshop K Frosty’s hot cocoa and s’mores REE ER C ALD Pictures and gifts with Santa Claus Christmas caroling I EN P ER BLIC AM O N N Kids winter programs Uare The lighting of the tree D also on sale E O TA H Letters to Santa and are expected to fill up. I Storytelling by Mrs. Claus Sign your child up for one or more of these EN PU BLIC AM Local community entertainment popular after school programs, which include Project MANA food drive eight sessions and run from 3:45 - 5 p.m. startBenefit raffle with Tahoe Donner prizes ing in January. Adult dinner and drinks in the restaurant • Tuesdays – Junior Biathlon R (basic ski NNE E D O second through ROGER BURNS handling skills required; O H TA eighth grade) RECREATION SUPERVISOR ON OE D TA H

question I always get before every winter is,

ARE I

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call me the “Manager of SNOW.” The standard

BLIC AM

CL A N I O J

the kids will even get to meet Santa too!

C O U NT S S O R C

ER EMB

and participating in events is free.EOf DM T Tcourse,

Featured activities include:

tahoedonner.com |

friendly event is perfect for the whole family

The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. This family-

E DO

always, Light Up the Night will take place at

R NNE

AR EA I K S L IL D OW N H O TA H

returns to kick off the holiday season. As

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Recreation Center to Northwoods Clubhouse

Thursday Night Trivia

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pick up and drop off from Trout Creek

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NT E R E C s i n or children will be offered throughout t e nthe Alder Creek Adventure Center and are very R E N ages and levels. Get your friends season for O Nall excited to host a grand opening of this beauOE D T E Rand day of the week, and Ntime TA H E C together, pick a N A tiful new building! Be sure to watch your ST R I us at xcski@tahoedonner.com and Econtact U Q E K emails for updates on aRdate for this event. EE RC discuss the best format and needs of your L D Eall readyN Our groomersAare O U toDhit the trails as let’s R G P group. M soon as the snow CA flies so it’s time to update or

ON OE D TA H

kindergarten through fifth grade) • Fridays – Junior Racers (intermediate skiers; third - fifth grade)

We’re thrilled to be moving in to the new

IN For extra parking, our shuttleR Ebus will

Festival!

inclusions and exclusions will be available at S

ER ONN

U NT O C S S C RO O TA H

view of all a la carte pricing and wristband

along with several attractions. A detailed over-

AR EA • I K S L L kindergarten W N H I through fifth grade) O D • Thursdays – TD Kids (all levels;

zoo, a complimentary caramel covered apple,

MEM the ticket window at the event. T TD MEE

S N OW P

ER ONN O E D – TD Kids (all levels; Wednesdays TA H

this year, wristbands do include the petting

N E DO

ing machine. It was chosen for its dampened sound levels and reduced energy consumption. • The new Silent PoleCats are significantly quieter than traditional snowmaking systems. This model was selected after a committee of homeowner volunteers and staff members spent more than a year analyzing details and options. In addition, a sound demonstration with an older model PoleCat was held last February to measure sound

impacts to neighbors, and it was found that the machines produced an acceptable sound level; the model we are installing will be quieter still. • The new system includes seven machines, a pump station building, and 12 hydrants and electrical pedestals. A cooling tower, which lowers the water temperature quickly and allows for shorter operating times, will also be installed. • The installation of snowmaking is a capital cost that will help insure that the Downhill Ski Area continues to provide a quality experience to our market niche of beginners and families. • Most of the 15 ski areas in the Lake Tahoe area consider snowmaking as insurance against business interruptions. We are proud to join this group.

up after Nov. 30, so buy today to get the most value. You’ll even get passholder perks and benefits, including free vouchers for family and friends, plus discounts on retail and food and beverage all season long. And don’t forget—if you purchased a pass last year, it’s good again this year too!* Plus, kids 6 and under and seniors 70 and over always ski free at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area!

This system should be ready for the upcoming season and we’re looking forward to continuing to make Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area the “Best Place to Begin.”

you’re interested, fill out an application online

Season Passes and Programs on sale now! Season passes and program can be purchased through Member Services or online at ShopTD.tahoedonner.com. Prices will go

*Please note: last year’s passholders will need to sign a new liability release and get a new sticker before your pass can be reactivated.

Work at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area We need to fill over 100 seasonal positions this winter at the Downhill Ski Area, including part-time, full-time, weekends and holidays. We have training programs for all positions. If at TahoeDonner.com/employment, or attend our job fair on Nov. 13-14 at Northwoods Clubhouse. We are ready for another great ski season, so we will see you on the slopes!

ROBERT MCCLENDON TAHOE DONNER DOWNHILL SKI AREA MANAGER

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.

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530-550-1252 530-320-4192 Cell talk/text 12

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

LOW MOISTURE DROUGHT COMPLIANT

Tennis Center. We are looking to stay open longer this season with an emphasis on continuing our ever popular Cardio Tennis, themed clinics and Ladies Day Drill and Play days. Private lessons, racket stringing, clothing and footwear sales will continue into the month of October. Make a point to sign up for a clinic and take advantage of smaller class sizes this fall. Don’t forget to use your remaining six-pack products as they will not be transferable to N E R DON

L AY P W O N S this fall 11. However, courts will remain open NER N O until the first OE D R EAbig storm of the year covers the Asnow, TA H I K S L courts in leaving us wishing for warm IL D OW N H spring days so we can get back out and play. HOE

TAis Sunday, Oct. 2016. Our scheduled closing date BLIC AM

ONN OE D TA H

TD M EET

CL JOIN A

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Regional Tournament this fall on Friday and

C ENT E R s i n n te

Saturday, Oct. 16 and 17. These all-day events are sure to be a treat as our local Truckee High Y

stars battle it out with P R other EReno/ R I VAT E A M N ESchool IT

ARE INTE

Donner Tennis is proud to host the High School

We also have some exciting news. Tahoe

U NT O C S S C RO

ER EMB

TER N E C N R IA the Northern Nevada area the following week EQ U EST in Las Vegas for a shot at the title of state chamN E DO

Tahoe area schools for the chance to represent

O TA H

BLIC AM

ROUND G P M A Csome fantastic merchandise for the guys to

pions. Please stop by to cheer on our athletes

to Darrin Kent of FootJoy who brought in

E R tracking usage Lastly, the tennis center isNstill DON

We’ve got some great deals going on in the

BIKE

golf shop. From shirts and shorts to golf balls

ID cards for scanning. R E This isPa very important

and gloves, it’s a great time to stock up on your ER

We had such a spectacular summer! Condi-

N TA

ONN

L I F EG UA

RDS

center’s hours of operation and opening and

get some of your holiday shopping out of the

open through October 18, and fall is a great

R NNE

closing dates.NPlease N E R scan your card manually

E AT T HAnd E way,Oat a fraction of the regular prices. time to get out on the course. With the coolerTA H O E D don’t forget, fall golf rates are in effect through mornings, the greens are firming up and B Ethe rest ER H Eof the season, along with our E Rpopular AT T H E getting quicker. EThis isNa perfect opportunity DON ONN O O E—Da fantastic deal. H TA H Drive and Dine golf special A T to take advantage of this added challenge to For any questions, please don’t hesitate to conI sharpen your short game. EN PU E Rtact the staff in the golf shop. BLIC AM N N E DO A quick reminder to all: our morning Otee TA H Fairways and Greens, times will be adjusting due to potential frost

RV I C ES E S R E E M B on the right side of the check-in winMlocated DO HOE

after TA our closing date of Oct. 11. The scanner is

CS AQ UAT I

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to make your reservations up to two weeks in advance. A big congratulations goes out to all N who NER E DO O H participated in the Men’s Invitational. The TA

t en n is PR

C ENT E R

entrance gate will be locked at night by security and then unlocked in the morning either by

C R E E RK T U O R T or not,Cutilizing you see someone, homeowner ENT E C E R the facility incorrectly (skateboarding, biking, UB L C H C the courts, fencing, nets, or buildB EAorAabusing M R I NA security, Member Services or a homeowner. If PR

I VAT E A M

ings), please report this to security immediately N

I V AT E A M

by calling 530-448-9076. It is up to all of us to keep an eye on our special amenity here at

E please check ForeTees or contact the golf shop

BLIC AM

it scanned properly. After our closing date, the

R EA A I K S NHILL W O D ROB WEIZER | HEAD GOLF PRO delays Eand R weather conditions. This allows ONN D E O our maintenance TA H N T RY staff to complete their onU O C S C R O S coursework prior to the start of play. Members,

S N OW P

P & INFOR dow; please listen for the ring to make sure that

EV ENT L A I C E SP

E LS & R

element in determining scheduling of the tennis

ED favorites. This is also a great Topportunity to AHO

tions permitting, we are scheduled to stay

WO R KS

OE TA Hthat all members bring their this fall and we ask

NOR

making!

E BLIC AM

purchase.

BLIC AM

U R SE O C F L GO TA

and watch some great tennis players in the

NER

DON HOE

E wall…fun R C Rwas had by all! A special thank you LDE

ENT E R C See you on the courts this fall! N A I R R with a T Fall is in the air and tennis is still a focal NNE S meet and greet party wasQgreat fun, E U E DO O E H K TA TENNIS I O N IAN MINDELL | DIRECTOR OF point in the month of October at Tahoe Donner REE E R Cmonster putting contest, and a diabolical flop R EAT C E D ALD R N U O R CA M P G OOD S W tahoedonner.com | 13 H T R O N P OO L Tahoe Donner.

I VAT E A M

BLIC AM

BLIC A

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N E DO

NER

I VAT E A M

EV RAMS &

DON

NER

E RV I C M BER S

E AHO

P & INFORM

tournament was capped off with our yearly general meeting and a wonderful banquet. The

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

with a nod to the roots of golf in Scotland. We are excited to announce and congratu-

C LU B R I NA

banquet theme this year was “Mad for Plaid”

I VAT E A M

late our 2015 Club Champion, Debbie Meyer. Congratulations to Flight winners:

Flight 1: 1. Criss Rojas, 2. Sandy Gautschi, 3.

Century Club Celebration Friday, Oct. 16

Debbie Meyer, 4. Hilary Ward

Join us this month for our Trout Creek

Flight 2: 1. Barbara McCabe,

Recreation Center annual Century Club Cel-

2. Alice Nicholls, 3. Pat Gibbons-Johnson,

E R p.m., taking ebration on Friday, Oct.D16O N atN5:30 E O H TA

4. Lynette Powell

TI ON A E R C E R

place at Trout Creek Recreation Center with

3. Jan Driscoll, 4. Gail Kelly

GRAMS &

who logged at least 100 visits to Trout Creek

Flight 4: 1. Barbara Bryant, 2. Maryellen

from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30 will be inducted

remove kayaks and SUPs from storage is

Wilson, 3. Denise Ayton-Lloyd, 4. Vivian

into our Century Club and earn a Century R

Sunday, Oct. 4.

Wakefield

NE DON

RV I CallESof E S R our inductees – we want to celebrate E EMB MChallengers. N E RCentury Club We will also O Nour D E AHO Y A L P be introducing, our Mega-Centurions (150+ S N OW visits) and, of course, our Supreme Centurion E is not limited to Club t-shirt. This gathering AHO

Thanks for a great summer of fun in the sun, beach time, and BBQs! Closing day for the Beach Club Marina is Sunday, October 4.

Storage Removal Deadline Sunday, Oct. 4

OOD S W H T R O N P OO L ber to remove your kayaks and paddleboards

As summer comes to a close, please rememPR

I VAT E A

N ME

from the Beach Club Marina storage. Winter storage is not available. The deadline to

ARE I

R NTE

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

ing at the Oct. 21 meeting. This is after the ER

ONN OE D Tahoe Donner Golf TA HCourse has closed. Meet-

OURS GOLF C

ings are held on the first and third WednesN

E UBLIC AM days of the month inPthe conference room

NER in Northwoods Clubhouse. For information, DON

Treasurer: Alice Nicholls; and Member-at-

R IA N T S E U Q E to all of our members for another fantastic K REE ER C D L season. A ROUND G P M A C TD 4 Wheelers Club PU

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N N E tournament We had a fun and exciting E DO

E NinT August. The V E held the last three Thursdays L A I S P EC

is truly amazing how many beautiful and fun O TA H

EV OG RAMS &

TD 9-Holers Women’s Golf Club

Stampede area just east of Tahoe Donner. It

I ON C R EATDundas R EMarilyn at md11792@outlook.com. All skill levels are welcome!

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Our August trail run took us to the Boca

OE TA Hcontact Linda Brush at sewlinda@aol.com or

O TA H

and lunch at The Lodge on Oct. 15. Thanks

meeting time from 6 - 8 p.m. to 1 - 3 p.m. start-

TA H

Tahoe Donner Quilt Club will be shifting its

I VAT E A M

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NN We will be wrapping up the season withOgolf E DO

Large; Barbara McCabe.

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Gibbons-Johnson; Secretary: Karolyn Gander;

E I V AT E A M

C ENT E R

REEK C T U O E R Quilt Club T R Tahoe TDonner N E C C RE

C LU B H C A E B A R I NA M

BER

CL JOIN A M

and Fitness Class Centurion of the year.

EM TD M EET

U N T RY O C S S C R OMarianne Bowers; Vice President: Pat dent:

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P & INFO

ILL S

TAheld and the results are as follows: Presiwere

N E DO

HOE

D OW N H

R Election D ofOOfficers for the 2016 seasons NNE

O TA H

N E DO

NER

CS AQ UAT I

O TA H

AT T H E

N E DO

NER

R L I F EG UA BE

AT T H E

C EN TY

some wine and lightP R Oappetizers. Members EV

OOD S L

Flight 3: 1. Shellie Poplin, 2. Susan Ritchie,

E E AM

off-road trails there are so close to Tahoe Don-

with a hike up to Tinkers Knob and a trail up

ner. We took the Hirschdale exit off I-80 and

to Fordyce Lake toward the end of the month,

turned left toward Stampede Reservoir. We

so please join in the fun. If you are interested

then turned right on a dirt road that is oppo-

in joining our club, send an email to td4wheel-

site the Boca Camping area. There are many

ers@gmail.com. To read more about the club

trails that weave around the mountains in the

and see more pictures, please visit our website

area and we ended up on the top of a mountain

at td4wheelers.com or look us up on Facebook.

that overlooked I-80. From there we wound around beautiful open meadows and densely forested areas through Boca Springs campground and eventually ended back at Boca Reservoir. As we drove down toward the Boca Dam, one of our members offered to lead us on a trail they have done on their snowmobiles. So we turned right and went over the dam to a trail at the base of

TAHOE DONNER WOMEN’S GOLF CLUB Tahoe Donner Women’s Club Champion 2015 Diane Kalliam, one of our former club presidents and club champion several times over, came out on top in a hard fought round

Bonnie Easton, President’s Cup winner 2015

up, Diane Kalliam. First place in the Lydia Ko

Boca Hill.

Flight: Kathy Moore and runner up, Tanya

This trail would have been much easier on

Wilson. First place in the Stacy Lewis Flight:

a snowmobile. It was very narrow and very

Robin Reese and runner up, Chris Lodge. First

rocky with some scary shelf roads, but the

Place in the Hyo Joo Kim Flight: Margaret

drive up was well worth it. The views from the

Paine and runner up, Glenda Bradley. Nice job,

top were gorgeous. You could see the Agri-

ladies!

culture Inspection Station on I-80 and all of Tahoe Donner from the summit.

Ryder Cup 2015

We ended the day with a club BBQ and

The second annual Ryder Cup event, hosted

potluck at the home of our members, Russ and

by the Tahoe Donner Men’s and Women’s

Coleen. They cooked up some great burgers

Clubs, was a huge success. The red team won

and the rest of the members brought fantastic

the event with a spectacular finish. The teams

side dishes for all to enjoy.

went into a sudden death playoff. Captain

September trail runs took us to Babbitt

James Murtagh, leading the blue team, and

Peak, the Gold Lake to Graeagle trail and this

Captain Charlie Lyon, leading the red team,

October we will do the Pole Creek trail again

played holes 16, 17, and 18. The finish came down to the last putt on hole 18 and the red team prevailed. Way to go, Charlie! Everyone participating in the event had a great time. See Diane Kalliam, the Tahoe Donner Women’s Club Champion 2015

the photo of the winning putt on page 24.

against reigning champion, Fran Macomber. On Aug. 11 and 12, 2015 with three flights and 12 players, overall Diane came out on top. Fran Macomber was low gross runner up and Leslie Williams was low net winner. First place in Flight 1 – Barbara Skiles, First Place in Flight 2 - Lydia Stang, First Place in Flight 3 - Leslie Kahn. Good Job, Ladies!

President’s Cup Winner 2015 Upon returning to the Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club, Bonnie Easton won the title of President’s Cup winner. First place in the Inbee Park Flight: Fran Macomber and runner

The Ryder Cup winning team, led by Charlie Lyon.

tahoedonner.com |

DINING OPTIONS The Lodge Restaurant & Pub 12850 Northwoods Blvd. 530-587-9455 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge

WINTER HOURS: Lunch service: daily from 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Oct. 18. Dinner service: daily from 5 – 9:00 p.m. with a new fall menu starting Oct. 16.

WildER Wednesdays Every Wednesday Happy Hour is available all night in the entire restaurant. Enjoy 25 percent off small plates, plus soups and salads.

Golfers’ Happy Hour* Taking place every day through October 18, join us for Golfers’ Happy Hour from 1 – 4 p.m. in The Lodge Pub.

Happy Hour* Happy Hour is offered every day in The Lodge Pub from 4 – 6 p.m.

LODGE SPECIALS

through Oct. 18. Beginning Oct. 19, Happy Hour will be offered every

Schnitzel Sundays (in the spirit of Oktoberfest)*

day in The Lodge Pub from 5 – 6:30 p.m.

Every Sunday, enjoy Chef Lew’s chicken schnitzel and warm German potato salad paired with an Oktoberfest inspired beer or a glass of Dr.

*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.

Loosen German Riesling for just $21.95.

No Corkage Tuesday* 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 11509 Northwoods Blvd 530-582-9669 tahoedonner.com/pizza-on-the-hill

HOURS: THURSDAY – MONDAY, 5 – 8:30 P.M.

OCTOBER SPECIALS 5 for $5 Monday Night Football Special* We’re offering five different appetizers for just $5 each every Monday night throughout football season. Choose from jalapeño poppers, onion rings with honey mustard, mini corn dogs, chips with queso dip, and hand-rolled taquitos. Additionally, grab a can of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer

*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.

for just $2.

EVENTS

Saturday Night, New England Style*

Fall Festival – Saturday, Oct. 10

On every Saturday night in October (with the exception of Hallow-

In conjunction with Fall Festival, Pizza on the Hill will be open at

een), we’ll be servin’ up several New England inspired dishes, including

11:30 a.m., offering cheese and pepperoni pizzas until 5 p.m. for just $10!

homemade clam chowder in a bread bowl, a shrimp po-boy sandwich,

For more info on Fall Festival, see page 10.

fried clams, and a weekly lobster entrée. Yum!

Thursday Night Trivia**

Brat and a Beer Special* Get a bratwurst, fries and any draft beer for $9 every day!

Happy Hour* Quench your thirst with our new drink specials: $4 Han Vodka John Daly (lemonade, iced tea, and vodka), $3 Coors Light, $4 seasonal draft beers and $4 house cabernet or chardonnay by the glass; plus, enjoy wings for half the price! Offered from 5 - 6 p.m. Thursday - Monday.

$10 Pizza Sundays Enjoy cheese or pepperoni pizza for just $10 each, offered every Sunday night. Take it to go or dine in. Limit six.

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

This popular event takes place every Thursday from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at Pizza on the Hill.

Friday Family Movie Night ** Stop by Northwoods Clubhouse for Friday Family Movie Night every week. ** See page 11 for more details.

T-9 Grill The T-9 Grill will close for winter in conjunction with the golf course closing for the season on Oct. 18, conditions permitting.

CATC H A S C ENIC HIK E OR MO UNTA IN BIK E RIDE THIS MONTH At this time of the year, most wildflowers have come and gone, and this year, many trees that typically boast beautiful foliage and colors are losing their leaves rapidly. But don’t write off fall hiking and mountain biking. This season, focus on scenic panoramas and breathtaking vistas. Fortunately, on Tahoe Donner’s trails, there is no shortage of views. Following are a few suggestions to check out before the snow flies. Hawk’s Peak. While this hike may be strenuous for some with its elevation gain of over 700 feet, it offers 360-degree views. Park at the green gate on North Skislope Way (junction 39 on the trail map), and head west on Crazy Horse before heading up the Hawk’s Peak Trail (at junction 38A). After trail goers reach the summit they can either head back the way they came or add a small loop by heading west on Andromeda before traveling down Drifter Wall trail and back towards Hawk’s Peak Trail via Crazy Horse. Distance: approximately four miles.

Mother Lode, Hidden Gem: a challenging ride with great views and a loop in the Euer Valley. Park at Alder Creek Adventure Center (ACAC) and head North on the Alder Creek Trail before connecting to Sundance where you head west up to Hasting Cutoff and finally down Mother Lode and Hidden Gem for some fast and flowing singletrack. Once you reach

20TH A NN UA L TR UC K EE RIV ER DAY, OCTOBER 18 It’s that time of the year—time to grab those gloves, shovels and boots and bring family and friends to help restore the Truckee River. The 20th annual Truckee River Day is Sunday, Oct. 18. Volunteers will have their choice of half or full day restoration projects More than 45 volunteers rem oved Eurasian milfoil, an aquatic invasive species, with different levels of from the Truckee River last year at the 19th Annual Truckee River Day. difficulty. There will be 10 to 12 projects including creek restoration, seeding, mulching and revegetating at various sites throughout the watershed region. Projects start at 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. and finish between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. The River Fair, featuring fun environmental activities for kids and adults, will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Granite Flat Campground. Food will be provided free of charge by Northstar California. To participate in this year’s restoration projects, please visit truckeeriverwc.org. The deadline for registration is Thursday, Oct. 15. The Truckee River Watershed Council focuses on collaborative solutions for the protection, enhancement and restoration of the Truckee River watershed.

South Euer Valley road head west before riding Prosser Creek Crossing across the valley floor to North Euer Valley Road, where you head back east for 1.5 miles. At the junction with Euer Valley Road (at the big map), turn right/ south and cross Prosser Creek again. The Three Bridges singletrack heads off to your left which goes up and out of the Euer Valley, and back to the Alder Creek Adventure Center. Distance: about 9 miles. Aspen Grove: Finally, while the colors may not be as spectacular this year as seasons past, a hike through the Aspen Grove, located just behind the new ACAC, is still a good bet for fall. “It’s still a nice and short hike or bike ride from ACAC to the grove and back, especially for families with small children,” said Sean Connelly, Tahoe Donner’s Trails Manager. Trail maps are available at Member Services, Trout Creek Recreation Center, and most major trailhead kiosks.

TRO UT C REE K TRA IL UPDATE As of the end of September, the Town of Truckee was over 25 percent complete with the highly anticipated Tahoe Donner Trail (initially referred to as phase 1 and 2 of Trout Creek Trail), which will be a Class I paved trail connecting downtown Truckee with Tahoe Donner neighborhoods. The upper terminus will be located at Tahoe Donner’s main entrance along Northwoods Boulevard, where a parking lot will be constructed for Tahoe Donner homeowners and visitors alike. This $1.9 million construction budget is funded by State Active Transportation Program funds and Regional Surface Transportation Funds. Once the installation of the footbridge crossing at Trout Creek is complete, anticipated for later this fall, a townsponsored celebratory ribbon cutting will take place. Watch your emails for news of this event!

tahoedonner.com |

FEATURE

IS TRUCK EE HAUNTED? BY ASHLEY QUADROS

tion, embellishment and playful

years old. Throughout its exis-

House, the New Whitney House

ings—oh my! Truckee is known as

Ghosts, spirits and haunt-

storytelling when it comes to the

tence, its ownership and name

after a devastating fire in 1909,

many things: beautiful, histori-

supernatural?

has changed hands frequently.

the Hotel Blume, Riverside Hotel

It’s been known as the Whitney

and Alpine Riverside for the

cal, quaint—the list goes on, but

One of the most notorious

in the spirit of Halloween, there

places in Truckee suspected of

is no denying it has also been

being haunted is The Truckee

described as spooky, chilling

Hotel. Built originally in 1873 as

and even haunted at times. The

the American House, it has had

question posed: is Truckee really

its share of history and tragedy,

haunted or does it have a history

which can naturally be expected

that is sprinkled with imagina-

for a building that is nearly 150

The Truckee Hotel today

The Truckee Hotel, circa 1904 (then known as the Whitney House)

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

Pictured here is the bathroom at The Truckee Hotel, where the little girl’s life allegedly came to an end.

naturally having a strong draw

discourage the couple and their

to men,” explained Haley. She

children from living in the building

usually roams the second hallway

for eight years following. And their

and kitchen, always wearing a red

encounters with the unknown

dress, and if the smell of roses is

began almost immediately. “When

in the air, Haley’s been told that’s

my kids were little, they used to

her perfume lingering, indicating

talk to the ceiling,” recalled Smith.

her presence.

“They used to crack up. She was

Ghostly aromas aren’t isolated to just The Truckee Hotel. At

entertaining them.” Though Smith has never seen

recalled Haley. “But, there are no

the nearby River Street Inn and

the madam herself, visitors and

it became what it is known as

other children checked in.” This

1882 Bar & Grill, owner Wendy

staff of the hotel have encountered

today, The Truckee Hotel. With

has happened more than once

Smith has also smelled perfume

her. She has been described as a

its age comes many stories which

with parents asking the front

in the building that houses both

well-dressed woman adorned in

have been passed down through

desk about another child in the

of her businesses. The perfume is

a 1800s-style gown. She report-

generations about incidents that

building when there are no other

presumed to be associated with

edly frequents the kitchen, the

happened — or allegedly hap-

children present.

a specific spirit, a madam who

basement and room 88, which

1960 Olympics at Squaw. In 1976

pened — in The Truckee Hotel. One of the most prolific is a common account of an unidentified little girl. Bill Haley, general

ONE OF THE MOST PROLIFIC IS A COMMON ACCOUNT OF AN UNIDENTIFIED LITTLE GIRL.

happens to be the only room with a fireplace. “She likes romance,” joked Smith about the fireplace. But kidding aside, one guest’s

once ran the building as a brothel.

alleged encounter with the madam

manager and operations, shared

Also at The Truckee Hotel,

the story that began in the 1940s

another woman reportedly met

“I would smell her perfume and

startled him so much, he had to

when a man escaped from jail and

her untimely demise when she

smell it in rooms when no one had

leave. He was a repeat guest, but

kidnapped a little girl. He took

and her husband got into a heated

been there,” recalled Smith.

on this evening, he told Smith the

When she first bought the hotel

madam had climbed on top of him

her to The Truckee Hotel where

argument inside their hotel room,

he rented a room, then drowned

room 216. He grabbed his gun

with her husband, it had been

in bed! He was fine, but left a little

the girl in a bathtub on the fourth

and fired a single shot, killing

vacant for 15 years, but that didn’t

spooked.

floor of the hotel, which is also

her. Before fleeing from the hotel,

thought to be the spookiest part of

the man went downstairs to the

the hotel. It is commonly believed

bar, bought everyone a round of

now that the young girl’s spirit

drinks, and then fled to Sacra-

lives on in the hotel and she roams

mento by train where he was

the third and fourth floors, often

later caught and apprehended.

revealing herself to women and

However, a second woman,

small children.

referred to as the Lady in Red, has

While this could very well

a stronger presence in the hotel.

be an interesting story for the

While Haley hasn’t encountered

sake of entertainment, several

her himself, past staff, guests and

guests have had encounters with

construction workers have and

the child to suggest otherwise.

she has been described as very

“Kids will be playing through-

beautiful, so much so that men

out the hotel, and then they’ll

have attempted to follow her

go ask their parents if they can

without success. “The woman in

play with the girl down the hall,”

red was thought to be a prostitute,

Getting a little spooked isn’t at

had a spiritual reading when the

all surprising, given the building

shop first opened and learned

has been standing for 133 years,

there was “protected energy” in

since 1882. According to Smith,

the back corner of the shop where

it’s been more than just a hotel

patrons enjoy comfy seats and

throughout its time too, includ-

a good book to read. Additional

ing a family home, a boarding

energy has been noted near the

house for ice cutters and railroad

restrooms and by the counter

workers, and possibly even a jail

where customers place their

(though unconfirmed). It even

orders—the counter is especially

once housed actor and direc-

noteworthy since it is where most

tor Charlie Chaplin during the

of the activity takes place.

production of “The Gold Rush” in 1925.

“A weird thing happening here is random ring ups on our iPad,” 18 hours a day for six months. It

originally built in 1875 after the

was during this time he had his

need for a jail was proposed in

first experience with the trouble-

1873, and it operated until 1964.

some lights. “I went up to the

Chaun Mortier, Truckee Don-

fourth floor to put tools away and

ner Historical Society president,

the lights went out. I didn’t think

explained the light-flickering

much of it,” he recalled. “I went

phenomenon happens more times

to change it and the lights came

than they wish at the jail, as lights

back on, so then I started to walk

are discovered on in the middle

back to the stairs and they turned

of the night a few times a month.

back off.” According to Haley,

Mortier isn’t bothered by the idea

each time he would move to fix

of ghosts or spirits turning on the

the lights, they’d turn back on and

lights. “But I wish they would stop

each time he started to leave, they

costing us money!” she laughed.

suddenly went off again. This hap-

While she noted it may be that

explained Taylor. “It happens

pened a few times before Haley

staff forgets to turn off the lights,

another possibly enchanted

once or twice a week and I don’t

decided it was time to call it a

everyone denies it, and strange

building that is currently home

know if it’s an iPad problem but

night and leave.

occurrences have gone on beyond

to Dark Horse Coffee Roasters.

it’s definitely doing some weird

Built after 1885, the building has

stuff,” said Taylor, who noted the

housed many businesses, first

strange iPad activity occurs only

as The European, a hotel that

when they have walked away

burned down, followed by the

and no one else has touched it.

Old Plumbing Shop in the early

“Recently, we’ve also been hav-

1900s. According to Drew Taylor,

ing a light that turns on and off

owner and roaster, after opening

behind the counter—it’s right

his coffee shop he experienced

behind the iPad. It will shut off for

some unexplained oddities that

a minute and then turn back on.”

Right across the street is

are still occurring on a regular

Like Taylor, Haley has also

THE LIGHT-FLICKERING PHENOMENON HAPPENS MORE TIMES THAN THEY WISH AT THE JAIL, AS LIGHTS ARE DISCOVERED ON IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT A FEW TIMES A MONTH. Just as Taylor and Haley have experienced, lights turning on

just lights reportedly turning on by themselves.

basis. “I noticed from the begin-

experienced lights turning on and

and off is a frequent occurrence

The jail was originally a one-

ning it wasn’t my space,” recalled

off at The Truckee Hotel. While

at the Old Jail Museum that just

story building; a second floor was

Taylor. “Now it’s been a year and

in the process of renovating the

celebrated its 140th birthday this

added in 1901 to house female

I’m more comfortable.” Taylor

hotel, Haley was working 16 to

past September. The facility was

inmates and an infirmary for the

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

who say they are sensitive and can

is keeping an open mind to the

feel energy in there,” said Mortier.

possibility of having spirits or none

While the museum does not claim

at all. “I always hear people walk-

to be spooky, Mortier notes, “We

ing upstairs, but that place is Spirit

just treat it as part of our family.

Designs!” he laughed.

If they’re there, we say hi to them.

This photo of Jacob Teeter hangs inside the cells of Truckee’s Old Jail Museum.

Whether or not Truckee is

If they’re not, we say hi to them

haunted or if these stories are just

anyway.” Haley also doesn’t deny

that—stories—one thing remains:

strange things have happened in

Truckee has some fascinating his-

The Truckee Hotel. “It’s an old

tory. Regardless if you live here full

building,” he said. “There are

time, part time or are just passing

definitely weird feels here and it’s a

through for the first time, Truckee

different feeling at night.” How-

has a hauntingly good spirit and

ever, in general, Haley believes

these Truckee attractions are defi-

ill. Since it has only ever served as

in the jail is the spirit of Jacob

there is always a logical explana-

nitely a stop worth making to enjoy

a jail (until becoming a museum

Teeter, the town’s constable in

tion for these experiences. Taylor,

the possible unknown, the laughs

in 1976), it’s had a lengthy list of

the late 1800s. Though he did not

with Dark Horse Coffee Roasters,

and the good times all around.

inmates, fights and even deaths.

die in the jail, he single-handedly

One death in particular is one that

apprehended several criminals

won’t soon be forgotten.

throughout his career. In charge of

According to Mortier, back in

upholding the law in Truckee, he

1906 a 19-year-old man by the

often got into disputes with fellow

name of Fred King was a waiter

lawman, James Reed, who was

at the jail who served the prison-

thought to be a member of the 601

ers their meals. When he and

vigilante group that aimed to rid

Constable Schlumpf went in one

the town of anyone who was con-

day at mealtime, the constable

sidered undesirable, which at the

was jumped and, in the struggle

time was largely Chinese railroad

to retrieve his gun during the

immigrants. Teeter and Reed often

brawl, the constable’s gun went

bickered and after getting into a

off, shooting and killing King who

dispute in a saloon one evening,

was a bystander. Following King’s

Teeter shot at Reed, missed, and

unfortunate death, two steel cages

Reed returned fire, successfully

were built later that year where

hitting him four times. Teeter later

his life ended for added protec-

died at his house but his spirit is

tion and, coincidentally, there has

believed to look over the jail to this

been a lot of activity around the

day.

space. To this day it is common to

Of course, at all four points of

experience goosebumps and feel

interest described above, it will

a cold presence or chill while in

vary by the person whether or not

the cages. “We have a lot of people

strange feelings or unexplained

who bring in their dogs,” explained

encounters are experienced.

Mortier. “It’s interesting to work

“People who are really accept-

with the dogs because the area we

ing get more out of it,” Smith of

believe Fred got killed is the area

the River Street Inn said. Mortier

the dogs commonly act up.”

shared a similar view regarding

Another presence often felt

the museum. “There are people tahoedonner.com |

FEATURE

2016 BUDGET AND YOUR ANNUAL ASSESSMENT OPERATING

Tahoe Donner Association’s board, committee, and management are actively planning the calendar year 2016 budget, which results in establishing the 2016 annual assessment invoiced this November, and due January

$1,074

REPLACEMENT RESERVE

$546

1, 2016. The budget will be reviewed and approved at the board of directors’ regular

29%

meeting on Saturday, Oct. 24. Your association is a corporation serving you: the owners and members of Tahoe Donner Association. The association has over

56%

$53 million in assets and a $21 million annual budget. While management and the board strive to keep the assessment as reasonable as prudently possible, those leading the corporation have a fiduciary duty to properly operate, maintain, and plan for the future of the association. The association must continue to adequately reserve for the replacement of aging assets (over 1,800 items are in the reserve study).

DEVELOPMENT

$250

13% 2%

NEW EQUIPMENT

DRAFT $1,900 ANNUAL ASSESSMENT FOR 2016 PER OWNER DISTRIBUTION

$30

The Replacement Reserve Fund was 21 percent funded in 2015 and is projected to be 27 percent funded for 2016. The long-term policy

winter has again been materially impacted by

materially impacted by numerous factors.

goal is to achieve a minimum of 25 percent

the drought. Accordingly, our projections for

We are impacted by the California minimum

funded, with known variations by year due

2016 budget are conservatively less than the

wage law raising the minimum wage from $9

to changing expenditure needs over time.

2015 budget, utilizing approximately 5 year

to $10 on Jan. 1, 2016, with an estimated cost

While the previous funding plan called for

averages on revenues for winter operations.

impact of $130,000. We also now have a full

a 10 percent increase in 2016, we are recom-

Our winter revenues are highly subject to

year of the new California mandatory sick pay

mending an increase of only 4 percent in the

weather conditions, as exhibited by the Down-

law in effect on July 1, 2015, with an estimated

reserve portion of the annual assessment. This

hill Ski Area revenues chart shown on page 23.

cost impact of $20,000. Both of these items

We have conservatively factored this fall’s

are significant to our operating costs, as we

increase allows for continued growth in our important reserve fund, while recognizing we

investment in snowmaking with a nominal

hire many entry level positions to operate our

have made substantial improvement in our

favorable net impact. The reduction in revenue

seasonal resort operations. Regarding health

reserve funding level. This reserves funding

expectation drives more conservatism into

care costs and the Affordable Care Act, with

increase of 4 percent equates to an increase of

the budget. This drought-induced reduction

considerable effort, we have been able to hold

$130,000 or $20 per owner.

in revenue expectation (less costs impact)

these costs flat the past two years. However,

equates to $400,000 or $62 per owner.

our renewal for this year will be an 8 percent

While we have seen strong revenue growth at our year-round and summer amenities, the

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

On the regulatory front, our costs are

increase or $65,000 and the Affordable Care

Downhill Ski Revenue by Winter Season

Act is estimated to begin impacting in the fourth quarter for a cost of $25,000. For workers’ compensation insurance, we had a significant increase in 2015, however, our experience rate and other factors have improved with

$3,500,000

$3,000,000

$2,500,000

this year’s renewal and the increase for 2016 regulatory items equate to a cost increase of $280,000 or $43 per owner. Finally, there are many financial moving parts and pieces with such a diverse operating company. As you know, the association operates the traditional homeowner association services, as well as numerous recreational amenities and restaurants. In the service

2,029,000 $2,000,000 1,613,000 $1,500,000

$1,000,000 $50,000

20 0 4/ 20 0 5 20 0 5/ 20 0 6 20 0 6/ 20 07 20 07 /2 0 0 8 20 0 8/ 20 0 9 20 0 9/ 20 10 20 10 /2 01 1 20 11/ 20 12 20 12 /2 01 3 20 13 /2 01 4 20 14 /2 01 5

is an estimated cost of $40,000. These noted

2015

2016

BUDGET BUDGET

business, personnel costs are a significant component of the annual operating budget,

ing department budgets, as well as finance

at the board of directors’ regular meeting

representing 67 percent of total operating

committee and board review and oversight.

on Saturday, Oct. 24. Please give me a call

costs. We issue over 800 W-2 statements each

We balance the service levels consistent with

or write to discuss any of the above or other

year. Various user fees are proposed to have

recent years, along with a variety of opera-

financial aspects of your association.

modest price increases, including daily lift

tional revenue and costs drivers.

tickets, rentals, and lessons. The net change in all other components of the draft budget

your association, the 2014 annual report, this

MICHAEL R. SALMON DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & ACCOUNTING

equates to net cost reduction of $162,000 or

current year’s 2015 budget report and monthly

msalmon@tahoedonner.com

$25 per owner.

financial statements, can all be found online at

530-587-9418

Know that the budget cycle process involves performing detailed reviews of all operat-

For further information on the finances of

TahoeDonner/Member/Financials. The budget will be reviewed and approved

MOVING FROM THIS YEAR’S ANNUAL ASSESSMENT TO NEXT YEAR’S DRAFT ANNUAL ASSESSMENT: $1800 + 20 + 62 + 43 ( 25 )

$1900

2015 Annual Assessment + 1.1%, Replacement Reserve funding increase of 4% + 3.5%, Low snow impact on winter operating revenues of 8%, net impact + 2.4%, CA Minimum wage, Insurance, Affordable Care Act, other regulatory mandates - 1.4%, all other changes for 2016 2016 Annual Assessment, DRAFT as of 9/22/2015 An increase of 5.6% | $100 | $8.33 per month

serving truckee and tahoe-donner for over 25 years

530.587.7525

www.DedenPainting.com CA Lic #960719

tahoedonner.com |

2015 PHOTO CONTEST

ACTION WINNER

PHOTOGRAPHER | MARK NADELL

e are proud to announce the winners of our annual photo contest. Each year,

the photos pour in and the process of editing and choosing photos makes this one of our favorite issues. Space only permits us to print a few of the many submissions, which makes our job extra difficult, as picking from so many fantastic submissions is no easy feat. We hope you enjoy the photos as much as we did. The winning photographer in each category will receive a gift certificate for $50 to The Lodge Restaurant and Pub. Thanks for participating, and don’t forget to take photos all year round for next year’s contest!

PHOTOGRAPHER | KELLY STEPHAN DATE | JULY 2, 2015 “Jumping off the dock at the Beach Club Marina is my kids favorite thing to do, and apparently it is Dad’s too!”

PHOTOGRAPHER | BRIAN GAUNY DATE | AUG. 26, 2015 “Charlie Lyons sinks the winning putt in a three-hole playoff to give the Red Team the win in the second annual TD Ryder Cup.”

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

2015 PHOTO CONTEST

NATURE WINNER

PHOTOGRAPHER | DANIEL FINEBERG DATE | JANUARY 1, 2015 “This is a sunset from the deck of my cabin in Tahoe Donner.”

PHOTOGRAPHER | NEIL BRYDON DATE | APRIL 2015 “I was steathly. It was late afternoon, he didn’t see me as a threat and he let me watch him for about 10 minutes until my phone rang!”

PHOTOGRAPHER | BETTYE CARMICHAEL DATE | JULY 16, 2015 “Fawn feeding in the greenbelt behind our house on Wolfgang Road.”

tahoedonner.com |

2015 PHOTO CONTEST

PEOPLE WINNER

PHOTOGRAPHER | CHERYLE CUSTER DATE | MARCH 2015 “Grand-nephew Caleb is all tuckered out and asleep on our niece Sara’s head after a sled ride and walk through Bennett Meadow.”

PHOTOGRAPHER | BRIAN GAUNY DATE | JANUARY 18, 2015 “First time visitors to Tahoe Donner are on top of the world at the Donner Lake overlook.”

PHOTOGRAPHER | GEORGE SLATER DATE | MAY 1, 2015 “George and Ellen Slater’s tandem mountain bike adventure with beautiful views of Donner Lake and beyond. We started at the Glacier Way trailhead heading to Drifter Hut...”

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

BULLETIN BOARD

BURN PERMITS ARE REQ UIRED FOR MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DEBRIS BURNING Burning season usually starts around the

Pollution Permit. Once you obtain your burn-

end of October. Once we receive several inches

ing permit and intend to burn on a given day

of measurable precipitation and it is deemed

you must call 530-582-1027 to see if it is a per-

safe to burn piles CAL FIRE will lift the burn

missible burn day. Northern Sierra Air Quality

ban in the Truckee area. Tahoe Donner does

Management District manages the burn day

not regulate the burning of debris except that

status with the predicted weather conditions.

the season to burn in the association is from

If it is a burn day you must then call TFPD to

once the burn ban is lifted to March 31 of a

report you are burning at your given location.

given year. For burning of dead limbs, pine

The following are burning permit terms for

needles and other vegetative debris collected

burning of vegetative material:

from your improved property, you must obtain a Residential Burn Permit from either the Truckee Fire Protection District (TFPD)

• Maximum pile size is four feet in diameter. • The area within ten feet of the outer edge of

located at 11473 Donner Pass Road or CAL

the pile must be maintained free and clear

FIRE located at 10277 Truckee Tahoe Airport

of all flammable material and vegetation.

Road. Undeveloped properties must obtain a Project Burn Permit from TFPD and an Air

• An adult must be in attendance with a shovel until the fire is dead out.

• A water supply must be located at the burn site. • It is a good idea to cover your piles before fall rain to keep the material dry for efficient burning with little pollution. • You can only burn on permissive burn days, so make sure you call your local Air Quality Management District immediately prior to lighting your pile(s). In the Truckee area, that number is 530-582-1027 • If you observe any questionable fires, call 911 immediately. If you have any questions about burning on your property please call TFPD at 582-7850 or the forestry department of Tahoe Donner at 587-9432.

TAHOE DONNER FORESTRY CRE W TO BURN S L ASH PIL ES During the fall season, the Tahoe Donner

has been obtained from TFPD which gives

The concentrated areas of burning to be

Association forestry department will once

us permission to burn numerous, larger piles

completed in unit 9 of Tahoe Donner include;

again be burning piles of vegetative debris

than allowed under a residential burn permit.

Bennett Flat Road, Brookstone Drive, Falcon

throughout the property. The department has

An additional Air Pollution Permit has been

Point Place, Greenleaf Way, Pathway Avenue,

obtained two separate permits that allow us

obtained from the Northern Sierra Air Quality

Schussing Way and St. Bernard Drive. Other

to burn material. A project burn permit

Management District. This permit gives

areas include; Near the Tahoe Donner Forestry

guidelines on which days to burn large

Facility on Teton Way, Mougle Lane/Tundra

piles with proper air dispersion to not

Drive, Lausanne Way, Roundhill Drive, Muhle-

affect the local population.

bach Way, Falcon Point Place, Northwoods

Before TDA forestry crews burn piles

Boulevard, Swiss Lane and Euer Valley.

on any given day, we notify TFPD, CAL FIRE, US Forest Service and any agency that may see or be affected by the burning operation. Locally, TDA’s Member Services Office will have a list of the daily burning locations. At the burn site signs will be posted notifying passersby of the operation.

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tahoedonner.com |

TAHOE DONNER TENNIS TEA MS REPRESENT The Tahoe Donner Men’s 4.5 tennis team, Team Snap’em Off, overcame 95 degree heat to claim the District Championship in Roseville last August. The team, which is a part of the United States Tennis Association, was victorious against three other top teams in Northern California. All team matches went down to the wire in nail-biting super match tiebreakers. With the achievement, the Tahoe Donner squad then hit the road again, and headed to Carmel for the Sectional Championships and the right to represent Northern California in the National Championships. There, Team Snap’em Off was not as successful, but they did a great job representing the Reno/Tahoe league against players who were more honed for the national stage. Team Snap’em Off, named for the term referring to winning a point with an overhead smash, is spearheaded by a number of local tennis pros from surrounding resorts Tahoe Donner, Northstar, Schaffer’s Mill and Tahoe Taverns. Members included lour own Ian Mindell, plus local tennis directors Zeke Straw and Malcolm Ridenour as well as local pros and additional members. The Tahoe Donner Women’s 3.5 team (55 and over) recently competed in the Northern California Sectionals held in the Sacramento area. Winning their first three matches, the team went on to the semi-finals and came up one tie-breaker short of making the finals. A win in the finals would have given them a chance to compete at the national tournament.

The Tahoe Donner Women’s 3.5 team (55 and over) recently competed in the Northern California Sectionals held in the Sacramento area. Winning their first three matches, the team went on to the semi-finals and came up one tie-breaker short of making the finals. A win in the finals would have given them a chance to compete at the national tournament. Way to go!

Tahoe Donner’s victory in Roseville last August. Team Snap’em Off, after their the banner (hat backwards). nd behi er cent the in red own Ian Mindell is pictu

Holiday Party = Ski for Free! Book a party at The Lodge and every guest can ski for free at the Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area or Cross Country Ski Center! We offer several options for parties of 20 or more people in a private room or a complete buy out. Visit tahoedonner.com/event-groups to view our menus including passed appetizers and buffet choices. Plated options are available upon request. At Santa’s request, all room charges and site fees will be waived for Christmas parties before December 18. Visit tahoedonner.com/event-groups to For more menu options on our holiday parties, please contact group sales at 530-582-9643 or email groupsales@tahoedonner.com

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

BULLETIN BOARD

FREE PAINT DROP- OFF EV ENT OCTOBER 17 Thanks to the Town of Truckee and Truckee Tahoe Airport, and the non-profit organization PaintCare, households and businesses in the Truckee area can dispose of paint at no cost on Saturday, Oct. 17. The event will be held at the Truckee Tahoe Airport from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.,

WA LTMAN DONATES TO GIV ING FUND The results are in! Customer response to contracting new driveway

and will accept most types of paint, stain and varnish. Containers must have original labels; sorry, no aerosol spray paints or other hazardous waste or chemicals (such as paint thinner, solvents, motor oil, etc.) will be accepted. For more details and a full list of what will

sealings in August helped contribute to the community via the Tahoe

be accepted and what will not be accepted,

Donner Giving Fund (TDGF).

please visit tinyurl.com/paintdropoff.

The Waltman team, as a founding partner of the TDGF, was

PaintCare is an organization

extremely pleased to donate $3,814 to the fund last month. Much of

created by paint manufacturers to set up con-

this was directly related to additional customer calls referencing the

venient places for households and businesses to

promotion. Waltman and the TDGF thank you!!

recycle leftover paint. To learn more, see paintcare.org.

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tahoedonner.com |

BULLETIN BOARD

PET RULES AND RESTRICTIONS: DOGS The Architectural Standards Office con-

tion, as well as legal action. Please be courte-

tinues to receive calls and complaints about

ous to those around you and by using a leash

Truckee Animal Control Department at 530-

To report loose dogs, call the Town of

dogs running loose. The covenant rules

will help prevent any unpleasant situations.

582-7830.

states, “Dogs shall only be allowed within any

If you rent your property, please be sure that

portion of the common area when they are

your tenants are aware of these association

taining to dogs or any other subject, please call

leashed and otherwise under the supervision

rules.

our office at 530-587-9406.

If you have any questions about rules per-

and restraint of their owners or other person accompanying the dog,” Common area is all real property owned by the association for the common use and enjoyment of the owners. Please be courteous. If you are not on your property or on the street, you are either on someone else’s lot or on one of Tahoe Donner’s many common areas. The Town of Truckee Animal Control Department requires dogs on the streets to be under the immediate control of the owner or caretaker. The best way to assure the safety of both you and your dog is to have your dog on a leash at all times. Your liability as a dog owner is a serious issue and should not be taken lightly. If your dog is off leash and attacks or bites another person or dog, you may be subject to a viola-

HOMES ON THE RISE The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed the following plans in August 2015 :

| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015

Unit/Lot

Street Address

Square Feet

Project

02/096

11515 St Bernard Drive

2760

House

04/612

15596 Northwoods Blvd.

1500

House

08/325

11678 Mougle Lane

2514

House

TA K ING CA RE OF BUSINESS BOARD MEETING RECAP AUGUST 28, 2015 Consent Calendar: Approved (5-0) • Winter 2015/16 rates – passes, programs, and groups Board Meeting Schedule: Approved (3-2) The board approved changing two of the previously approved Friday

Executive Session: 1. The board unanimously approved the annual restatement of the associations qualified salary savings retirement plan with the current board officer’s signatures. 2. The board unanimously approved the following annual employee benefit health care policy renewals: a. Remain with Blue Shield of California at an 8 percent premium increase.

board monthly meeting dates to Saturday (October 24, February 23).

b. Remain with Guardian at zero percent increase

Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee (No action)

d. Remain with Lincoln, Life, AD&D, Supplemental Life at

Discussion took place regarding the committee’s scope of activities and interactions with TDA Staff. Director of Finance and Accounting Report: Approved 5-0 The board approved the unaudited preliminary July 2015 Financials. Strategic Planning Guidance 2016 Budget: Discussion took place regarding the 2016 budget.

c. Remain with Superior Vision at zero percent increase 7.65 percent increase e. Remain with Lincoln LTD, at 12.58 percent increase 3. The board authorized the General Manager to work with the Truckee Donner Land Trust and the association’s legal counsel to develop a draft letter of intent in exploring opportunities to protect adjacent open space lands to Tahoe Donner. 4. The board approved delaying construction of Phase 2 of the equestrian campus remodel until April 2016, allowing all permit language to be reviewed and sufficiently bid by three general contractors and their sub-contractors. 5. The board approved moving forward with project application sub-

AT TRUCKEE/TAHOE’S

mittal with Nevada County Planning Department on September 2, 2015 for all phases of the trails 5-year implementation plan as part of the long term trails master plan. 6. The board approved staff recommendations on two owner delinquency fee cases. 7. The board upheld an Architectural Standards Committee decision during an appeal hearing.

The hearth is central to your mountain home style. And, whether modern, contemporary or traditional… there is one fire for you and so many ways to express your style. Visit our Brockway store or browse online at MountainHomeCenter.com. You won’t believe what’s new in stoves and fireplaces. Select from gas traditional, gas contemporary, wood, electric, bio ethanol, pellet, inserts and a large array of in-stock hearth accessories.

Two Truckee locations: Main Showroom for fireplaces, hot tubs, BBQs, outdoor furniture 11403 Brockway Rd., 530-587-6681; Downtown in historic Loading Dock building for home decor accessories 10115 Donner Pass Rd., 530-550-8800; MountainHomeCenter.com FREE LOCAL DELIVERY • PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION • EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE.

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HAWAII The Banholzer family spent spring break in Maui.

ARGENTINA

Sandy and Mike Ahrens visited Mendoza, Argentina and toured their wineries.

They especia lly enjoyed this 1928 Ma lbec vineyard.

DUBAI

Donna and John Pronko in front of Dubai’s “Ski Dubai” complex. They visited friends who are living in

Dubai and then toured other cities in the United Arab Emirates.

Email your “Where in the World” photos to: comdep@tahoedon-

SURINAME Josh Routh on another of his humanitarian trips to deliver 280 wheelchairs to the people of Moengo, Suriname. The whole town came out to show their appreciation!

ner.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.

Happy Hall ween!

Pending in 1 Day!

New Construction!

Lower Elevation Family Cabin 11544ZermattDrive.com Comfortable mountain living with terrific great room, lots of windows and light, wood accents throughout and a cozy gas fireplace. Floor plan offers a downstairs family room plus a nicely sized loft upstairs. BIG master suite plus two additional bedrooms are located on the main living floor. $432,500 Pending in 3 Days!

Gorgeous New Construction 14047NorthwoodsBlvd.com Nestled on a lovely meadow with Alder Creek gurgling behind, enjoy your own private setting with easy, single level living. Light and bright, this well designed 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers a spacious great room, chef’s kitchen, gorgeous granite slab countertops, hickory floors and more. BIG garage. $595,000 Pending!

Bright and Comfortable Chalet 14065HanselAvenue.com Nestled into greenbelt with a lovely setting, you’ll enjoy the ambiance of this spacious and open floor plan with a split level design. Offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the HUGE upstairs master suite offers a luxurious retreat and access to the rear patio and wonderful forest setting. $625,000

Custom Golf Course Enclave 13240SkiViewLoop.com Contemporary GOLF COURSE living awaits! Custom design, clean lines, exquisite finishes and soaring ceilings fill this home with light and a wonderful scale. Two en-suite masters, HUGE upstairs game room, 4.5 baths, BIG garage, beautiful exterior finishes, .45 acre parcel. $1,645,000

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

Over $110,000,000 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

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| Tahoe Donner News | October 2015