WINTER 2018
TRACKS
Supporting the business community of the greater Truckee area A Publication of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce
Truckee Chamber Redefines Communication with Launch of Business Speaks! Grassroots Efforts Will Bring Businesses Together to Talk, Collaborate, and Influence Change
T
he Truckee Chamber of Commerce is inviting business owners to come together for 90 minutes every three months in 2018 in order to identify the greatest challenges facing their local business community and to develop creative solutions as a team. Beginning the week of January 23, 2018, the Truckee Chamber of Commerce will launch Business Speaks! -- a game changing program for communication between business owners in Truckee. Eleven distinct “Base Camp” geographic areas within Truckee will be hubs for business owners to come together to discuss how they can address issues facing Truckee as a whole, or an issue specific to their geographic area. “In today’s world of mass communication and information overload, we are going back to grassroots efforts and getting people together in a room to talk. We may find that
Jeremy Jensen
many businesses in close proximity don’t know each other, have never met or even talked. By convening businesses, leaders and influencers for an open exchange of information we believe we will have a better understanding of what the business community thinks and what their real issues
Save the Date!
Grow Your Business Online With Google Workshop
D
oes your business show up on Google? Let us show you how to gain access to the number one search engine in the world. At the Thursday, March 15th Knowledge Bites Workshop, the Truckee Chamber is bringing in an official Google trainer to discuss how to maximize your business online. Topics will include how customers find your business online, how to promote your
online presence with search engine optimization (SEO), and online advertising. Google will also introduce tools to help you run your business online, including Google Analytics and the G Suite. Research shows that 76% of people who search on their smartphones for something nearby visit a business within a day. “The Truckee Chamber is an Official City Partner with Google,” said Megan READ ABOUT MORE GROWING YOUR BUSINESS P. 13
are,” said Lynn Saunders, President/CEO of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. “Deepening ties between businesses fosters collaboration,” said John Manocchio, Chair-Elect of the Chamber Board of Directors. “Collaboration and strategic READ ABOUT MORE BUSINESS SPEAKS! P. 12
Inside Tracks 6
Join FlashVote.com – Make Truckee a Better Place!
8
Good Morning Truckee – Jan & Feb Line-up
12 TruckeeTomorrow.org – head here to find YOUR Business Speaks Base Camp area
MEET NEW MEMBERS 2017-18 Board of Directors Pam Hobday, Chair Pamela Hurt Associates John Manocchio, Chair-Elect Waddell & Reed Tonya Beyer W&T Graphix Christy Curtis Coldwell Banker Tally Meek Sierra Insurance Associates Ted Owens Tahoe Forest Health System Aimee Schaller Tri Counties Bank Lisa Toutant ELTE Inc. Kelly Wallis Atelier
Professional Advisor Ravn Whitington Porter Simon
Chamber Staff Lynn Saunders President/CEO Colleen Dalton Brand Communications Director Ruth Geresy Director of Operations Manager, California Welcome Center Megan Hines Membership Services Manager Justin Swett Communications Manager
California Welcome Center Concierge Staff Marilyn Colquhoun Carla Embertson Victoria Myer Karen Snyder
TRUCKEE TRACKS
is the quarterly publication of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber reserves the right to edit submissions as necessary for space requirements. Send comments or submissions to info@truckee.com.
Truckee Chamber of Commerce 10065 Donner Pass Road | Truckee, CA 96161 530-587-8808 | 530-587-2439 (fax) info@truckee.com truckee.com
2 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
Alibi Ale Works
Truckee is happy to welcome Alibi Ale Works to the community! Alibi Ale Works is a craft brewery operating in two locations – one in Incline Village (their brewery and taproom) and one in downtown Truckee (their new public house and live music venue). Alibi Ale Works makes a huge variety of delicious craft beer with 100% pure Lake Tahoe water. Whether you are a beer nerd, just starting to explore beer or you just stinkin’ love to drink beer and hang out, Alibi has an amazing experience waiting just for
C H A M B E R C A L E N DA R
Our mission is to promote and develop local business and tourism, while improving the community's quality of life.
These businesses have recently made a commitment to our community and an investment in their future by joining the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. We encourage all our readers to do business with these new member businesses. you. Find your flavor, drink with the brewers and smell the hops and malts in the Incline Tap Room. Choose from the rotating 22 Alibi taps, eat mind-blowing nachos, and dance to amazing live music at the Alibi Truckee Public House. Alibi also hosts stand-up comedy nights, pop-up dinners, open mic nights and other community-building events. For more information visit their website at alibialeworks.com.
JANUARY Ambassador Committee THURSDAY, JANUARY 4 | 11:30AM Zano’s Good Morning Truckee TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 | 7:00-8:30AM Truckee Tahoe Airport Board Meeting TUESDAY, JANUARY 16 | 2:30PM PropertyRadar Mixer THURSDAY, JANUARY 18 | 5:00-7:00PM Tahoe Peaks Athletic Club Business Speaks TUES, WED, THURSDAY, JANUARY 23-24-25 times & locations vary (see story on page 1) Membership 101 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24, 8:00-9:00AM California Welcome Center Mixer WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 | 5:00-7:00PM Alibi Ale Works
FEBRUARY Ambassador Committee TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 11:30AM Drunken Monkey TTBID Meeting WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 | 12:00 NOON PropertyRadar Tourism Committee THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8 | 9:00-10:30AM Location TBD Good Morning Truckee TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 | 7:00-8:30AM Truckee Tahoe Airport
READ ABOUT MORE NEW MEMBERS P. 11
Board Meeting TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 | 2:30PM PropertyRadar Mixer THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 | 5:00-7:00PM Tahoe Oil & Spice Membership 101 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 | 8:00-9:00AM California Welcome Center Mixer DATE TBD | 5:00-7:00PM Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company
MARCH Mixer THURSDAY, MARCH 1 | 5:00-7:00PM Bella Lago Aesthetics Ambassador Committee TUESDAY, MARCH 6 | 11:30AM Squeeze In TTBID Meeting WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7 | 12:00 NOON PropertyRadar Good Morning Truckee TUESDAY, MARCH 13 | 7:00-8:30AM Truckee Tahoe Airport Knowledge Bites THURSDAY, MARCH 15 | 8:00-11:00AM Truckee Tahoe Airport Board Meeting TUESDAY, MARCH 20 | 2:30PM PropertyRadar Mixer THURSDAY, MARCH 22 | 5:00-7:00PM T3 Adventures (Cedar House Sport Hotel) Membership 101 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28 | 8:00-9:00AM California Welcome Center
Board Meetings As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, you are encouraged to attend board meetings. Get involved in the leadership of our organization, offer your input, and let your directors know of your concerns, opinions, and ideas. Any business you wish to present to the board must be placed on the agenda by notifying the President / CEO ten (10) days prior to the meeting. Board meetings are held as noted in the Chamber Calendar. Agendas are available one week prior to the meeting and can be sent to you upon request.
Truckee.com
MEMBER RENEWALS
from 9/26/2017 to 1/3/18
Thank you to the following members for renewing their commitment to the local economy and business community with their investment in the Chamber. 15+Years
30+Years
CCMedia Cottonwood Restaurant Flyers Energy Martis Valley Associates Robert E. Sutton Company Inc. Tributary Whitewater Tours Truckee Rents Villager Nursery, Inc.
Alpine Mounting Systems tahoeposters.com Alpine Technical Services Coyote Moon Golf Course Dickson Realty - Rich Harter Real Estate Glasforms Glassblowing Granite Chief Ski & Mountain Shop Just Imagine Marketing and Design Morris Media - Where Reno Tahoe Mountainside Partners Pianeta Ristorante Tahoe Sports Hub Tahoe Telephone Directories The Tree House Children's Clothing and Gifts Truckee Host Lions Club Truckee Lutheran Presbyterian Church Truckee Sunrise Rotary Club Village Green Mobilehome Park
20+Year
10+Year
Boreal Mountain Resort DBI Beverage Co. Donner Lake Village Fidelity National Title KJM - Dickson Realty Mountain Home Center Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows Teichert Aggregates
25+Year
Carlson’s Electronics Hazardous Disposal Specialists Inc. La Galleria Ryan Group Architects Sierra College Tahoe-Truckee Sierra Crest Dental Tahoe Donner Association White Buffalo Wholesale Resort Accessories
101.5 FM Truckee Tahoe Radio Achieve Tahoe Boomtown Hotel Casino Canine Country Truckee, Inc. Carmel Gallery Cedar House Sport Hotel Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch Henness Flats Apts. HeyChef!
Hudson Design JK Architecture + Engineering Mark Tanner Construction, Inc Martis Camp Precision Flooring Rybicki & Associates, P.C. Shampoo Salon Sierra Sotheby's International Realty Denise Mix Squaw Valley Lodge Tahoe Sierra Transportation Tahoe Truckee Homes TahoeStaff Truckee Community Christmas
5+Years Bob the Tax Guy California 89 Copy Center Drunken Monkey Sushi Ed Chaon Bookkeeping & Tax Preparation Family Resource Center of Truckee Gabbart & Woods Structural Engineers Grant Kaye Photography Guild Mortgage Company, The Rice Team Holliday Development Nor-Cal Floor Design, Inc Riverside Studios Scott Shots Photography Sierra Mail/Print Art
Spirit Tahoe Interior Design Truckee Pediatric Dentistry Truckee Tahoe Mortuary Vacasa
2+Years Coldwell Banker - Lynn Richardson Gallery 5830' Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group Gratitudes Gifts & Home Decor Leeder Law Northwestern Mutual- Max Baillargeon PropertyRadar Reliable Services Saturno Home Inspection Summit Swirl Supreme Lending - Conway Lending Team Tahoe Getaways Tahoe Mountain Fitness Tahoe Mountain Sports Tahoe Tech Group Tahoe.com Truckee Family Eyecare Optometry Truckee Roundhouse Makerspace
1+Years Coldwell Banker - Nicole Folks First Chair Digital Marketing Heslin Construction Tahoe Luxury Properties Truckee Consignment
Show You Are A Proud Member of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce business. We also have online member widgets for those businesses that don’t have a store front or would like to display their membership on their website. Need a window cling or widget? Call Megan Hines, Membership Services Manager at 530-412-7057 or e-mail megan@truckee.com.
“
When consumers know that a business is a
member of the Chamber, they are 55% more
likely to think favorably and 63% more likely to
purchase goods or services from the company. -- The Schapiro Group Research Study
“
The Truckee Chamber of Commerce is the largest, most connected business organization in Truckee. Founded in 1912 and incorporated in 1953, the Chamber is growing strongly with over 650 members. Studies show that Chamber members are viewed with higher credibility, integrity and staying power. There are many ways to show you are a proud member of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. Put one of our Chamber Member window clings at your place of
Membership 101
GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Once a month from 8:00-9:00am, Chamber members and those interested in learning about the Chamber are invited to learn about member benefits, ask questions, and meet staff. Introduce yourself to other Chamber members, exchange ideas over coffee, and have a chance for conversation about how the Chamber can best Truckee.com
support your business and the business community. Hear how easy it is to create your own personal page on Truckee.com - an invaluable member benefit. While this informal gathering is geared primarily for new members, any Chamber member or prospective member is welcome to attend!
When: January 24, February 28, March 28 Where: California Welcome Center, 10065 Donner Pass Road in Train Depot We look forward to seeing you there!
Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 3
Truckee Tourism Business Improvement District In the Fall Truckee Tracks issue, we talked about TTBID’s success given the wrap up of fiscal 2016-2017 on July 31. The assessment funds really kicked into gear last winter/ spring - driving high growth in lodging lead generation for Truckee.com, plus strong public relations coverage for our town and a major boost in our social media fans/ followers. At their summer retreat, the TTBID Management Committee* then directed Truckee Chamber, TTBID’s “Owners Association” (serving as their strategic media/marketing agency) to stay the course. As we now look back at the first six months of fiscal 2017-2018 (July - December) the Committee is reaching its stride in shaping how the funds may be used to help make Truckee a stronger year-round
economy and place to live. They are now taking a serious look at new or improved venue infrastructure that could be used for events in the shoulder season in addition to facilities for locals. These types of exploratory conversations will take time to make wise and educated decisions down the road. In the meantime, a comparison of fall shoulder season shows continued growth in lodging lead generation, PR and social media (see Destination Marketing Update), thanks in large part to TTBID. On the task of bringing events into town to lift light visitation weekends (shoulder seasons), TTBID has hosted professional producers and is now evaluating three proposals for some exciting new Truckee
DASHBOARD Q1
(July-Aug-Sept) 2017
YOY
% Change
Q2
events. More on that in the Spring issue of Truckee Tracks. *The Truckee Tourism Business Improvement District (TTBID) Management Committee is comprised of two property managers, two hotels owners, one bed & breakfast owner, one nightly rental homeowner and a Chamber of Commerce Board member who is a corporate organizational consultant. This Committee oversees how the TTBID assessment is spent to drive shoulder season lodging. To know who is on the TTBID Management Committee and to review all meetings and documents, visit Truckee.com/TTBID.
YOY
% Change
Q3
(Jan-Feb-Mar) 2017
Q4
2016 vs 2017
(Oct-Nov-Dec) 2017
(Apr-May-June) 2017
2016 vs 2017
117,000 75,000 233,398
+380% +287% +353%
90,319 59,924 228,805
+140% +180% +191%
49,007 31,257 96,718
79,728 49,886 158,083
10,407 2,683
— —
16,173 2,744
— —
4,637 2,478
7,525 2,559
34,983 1,902,277 1,150,223
+149% +151% +121%
40,443 2,239,243 1,299,488
+91% +167% +52%
23,692 952,334 939,473
29,540 2,313,357 2,229,324
1,138 65,120 43,495
+39% -25% +22%
1,219 93,483 50,852
+22% -36% -38%
1,065 188,000 110,100
1,094 106,485 61,295
Chamber Memberships Membership 101 Attendees Good Morning Truckee Attendees Knowledge Bites Attendees
640 22 222 —
-2% -21% +9% —
647 11 140 24
-1% -42% +3% +140%
665 12 174 34
652 27 155 45
Chamber Business Metrics Phone Calls Received Written Requests
1,155 542
-53% -37%
2,703 1,593
+23% +331%
2,442 430
3,037 303
73,760
+7%
55,657
+14%
39,932
57,727
DIGITAL MARKETING METRICS Truckee.com Sessions Users Page Views Email Marketing Visit Truckee E-Newsletter (Recipients) Big Life Weekly E-Newsletter (Recipients) Visit Truckee - Social Media Followers/Fans Impressions Reach Truckee Chamber - Social Media Following/Fans Impressions Reach CHAMBER METRICS
CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER METRICS Visitors
Definition of Terms available at Truckee.com/mediakit. YOY means year-over-year percent change (up or down).
4 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
Truckee.com
Truckee Destination Marketing Update We are so proud to announce the tremendous coverage Truckee received from five, yes FIVE, major national media outlets for being the “best of”, from coolest, best, top destination to place to live - we all know that Truckee is base camp for a big life. Thank you and your employees for your business, your service and your faith in our town. Keeping Truckee a real, authentic mountain town is how we earn this kind of recognition, together. Maybe that’s why we had to reorder 10,000 Scenic Paved Paths brochures, after depleting our entire stock in one summer!
Truckee.com
Truckee.com - Comparison of Fall 2016 vs. 2017 We were pretty stoked to see the growth metrics between fall 2016 vs. fall 2017. Users went up from 14K to 57K with a 2X increase in Sessions for lodging from 2.8K to 5.7K! The events page is blowing up at 71K page views vs. 20K last year - a tribute to the community’s full engagement with uploading events on Truckee.com. We had a record breaking 381 events uploaded in fall 2017. The dashboard on page 4 takes us through the 2nd quarter of fiscal 2017-2018, showing the continued high pace of users and reach heading into winter. Keep up the good work members!
we achieved exposure in Sunset, Snowbomb, Visit California, Outside magazine and more. Huge thanks to Chamber members Big Blue Adventure and Tahoe Mountain Sports for pushing the contest to their subscriber lists. It’s members like these that help make our community stronger. PR & Editorial Outreach So far, Truckee has received $3.9 million in media coverage value, from July to November. With the help of Jessica Van Pernis of JVP Communications, we are off to a fantastic start. On a weekly basis, Chamber receives high media profile inquiries that demand rapid turnaround, from Ski Magazine to Sunset. Chamber members are our priority when we talk to highly valuable publications and websites. Truckee Social Media - Now 35K Fans/ Followers Help us reach 40,000! Can you believe we went from 14,035 fans/followers in fall 2016 to 34,984 as of Oct. 31, 2017? We are on a mission now! With the help of IdealWild, one of our strategies includes building Likes to increase our social “reach” and database. The other strategies are a secret, but if you are a member of the Truckee Chamber Tourism Committee, you just may find out! Ask Megan Hines, your Membership Services Manager if you qualify to be invited (see story on page 16).
Visit Truckee E-Newsletter The winter contest campaign yielded a huge boost in subscribers to our tourism focused newsletter. With TTBID’s funding,
Visit Truckee Newsletter
To learn more about the dashboard metrics and advertising opportunities to reach targeted audiences through the Truckee website, social and email channels, please contact Colleen Dalton – Brand Communications Director, colleen@truckee.com or 530-412-7090.
Truckee Facebook page
COLLEEN DALTON, Brand Communication’s Director A 20-year brand and interactive marketing veteran, Colleen Dalton is the Brand Communications Director for the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. She holds a BS in Communications, an E-MBA in emerging technology, and Project Management Certification. She leads the strategic development and oversees the implementation of all marketing initiatives including visitation, economic, community, and Chamber. Truckee.com
Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 5
Join FlashVote.com – Make Truckee a Better Place! You are invited to join the FlashVote community for Truckee, CA. Help make Truckee even better! The Town of Truckee and Truckee Chamber of Commerce have partnered with FlashVote to get feedback on local issues. Got one minute a month to help make Truckee a better place? Don’t miss the next one minute survey: join the Truckee FlashVote community now at flashvote.com/truckee Make your voice heard on local topics quickly and easily. FlashVote collects rapid feedback from citizens like you so local governments can get the input they need, when they need it. As an independent service, FlashVote ensures that surveys are always brief and unbiased. FlashVote also makes sure results are anonymous to governments and shared with participants.
Truckee Quality of Life survey is a Truckee Tomorrow project that will establish a baseline of how local citizens are feeling – from hopes and dreams of owning a home to general happiness, or commute times. Be sure you’re ready to take the poll by joining the Truckee Flashvote Community now at FlashVote.com/Truckee, you’ll be instantly notified.
JOIN TODAY! Don’t miss the next one minute survey! Join the Truckee FlashVote community now at flashvote.com/truckee.
Keep an Eye Out for This FlashVote – Truckee Quality of Life Soon you’ll be able to give input about your quality of life in Truckee – living, working and playing in our “Base camp for a big life”. The
STEAM and CTE Fair Looking for Presenters The Rotary Club of Truckee and Tahoe Truckee Unified School District is excited to announce the 2018 STEAM and CTE Fair (fka STEAM Fair). This year event, now in its 7th year, will be held from 6:00-8:00pm on Thursday, March 1, at the new TDRPD Recreation Center at 8924 Donner Pass Road. They are looking for community, industry, and postsecondary partners to provide engaging hands-on activities aimed at piquing the interest of K-8 students and their families in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Career Technical Education fields such as Media & Entertainment, Building & Construction Trades, Energy & the Environment, Engineering & Architecture, Fashion & Interior Design, Health and Medical Technology, Hospitality, Tourism, & Recreation, Programming & Robotics, Information & Communication Technologies, Manufacturing and Product Development, Public Services, and Transportation. These career sectors are the fastest growing, highest-need, highest-wage, and highest-skill careers, many of which will have careers tomorrow that we have not yet envisioned for the younger
students we have today. This fair is designed to introduce and inspire students today in the possibilities they have tomorrow in a competitive age. Over the past seven years, the STEAM & CTE Fair has grown considerably, and has phenomenal participation and support from our community, often being described as the best STEM/STEAM event in the west. Typically, there are over fifteen new participants that bring the latest and greatest state of the art activities, with over forty participants in total. If your business or personal expertise aligns with the mission of this event, they would like to you invite you to host a booth with an engaging hands-on activity in STEAM and/or CTE. If you know of someone who is state of the art and engaging, they would like to invite them as well. If you or anyone you know is interested in participating, please email STEAMandCTEFair@ttusd.org and cc Greg McDougall at mcdoogm@gmail.com and April Cole at april@journeys-within.com.
Growing Your Business continued from page 1 Hines, Membership Services Manager. “We are proud to be part of this program and to bring in an official Google trainer to help our local businesses grow their presence online.” Knowledge Bites will be held March 15th, from 8:00-10:30am at the Truckee Airport, 10356 Truckee Airport Road. Registration and networking begins at 8:00am, presentation starts at 8:30am. Reserve your spot by March 8th and the cost to attend is $20 for chamber members and $30 for non-members. After March 8th, cost is $30 for chamber members and $40 for non-members. Find the event online at Truckee.com/Events, keyword search “Google”, and use 6 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
registration link. This session WILL sell out! Space is limited so early registration is encouraged. For more information, contact the Truckee Chamber of Commerce at 530-412-7057 or e-mail Megan Hines at megan@truckee.com. Knowledge Bites series is presented by the Truckee Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Sierra Business Council’s Small Business Development Center. The venue sponsor is the Truckee Tahoe Airport District. Truckee.com
RENEWING REWARDS | MEMBER PROFILES HUDSON DESIGN
PEAK LANDSCAPE INC.
Kasey Hudson,
Owner
Brian Connors,
Owner
kaseyhudsondesign.com
peaklandscapeinc.com
How long have you been conducting business in Truckee? Hudson Design just celebrated its 10-year anniversary.
How long have you been conducting business in Truckee? Since 2004 .
Who are your clientele? We are fortunate to have a great mix of clients on residential projects from extensive remodels to ground up high end. We also work on commercial projects in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Our experience has led to a “once a client, always a client” philosophy as we often help in updates years later.
Who are your clientele? We service the Truckee and northwest corner of Tahoe. Our service mix is around 85% residential and 15% commercial.
What has been your most rewarding project? While each project is different, a consistency we have worked hard to establish is the great teams we have been a part of. There is so much talent in our community from the architects, contractors, cabinetmakers, plumbers, electricians, and artisans we have worked with here. We have been recognized in the Tahoe Quarterly magazine Home of The Year editions for three awards in recent years including Interior Design of the Year. What has been the greatest challenge overall to your business? We started right at the beginning of the recession in 2007 and weathered the storm. Aligning with collaborative teams and working on great projects has been critical. Keeping realistic, growing slowly, focusing on service rather than “Going Big” has been important. What has been the most beneficial to your business? Clearly word of mouth, referrals and maintaining relationships within our community have been our best allies. What are your business goals? We try to stay focused on our core strengths and relationship based business models while adding additional tools such as CAD design and technology based communication methods. Any tips or pointers for other small business owners in the region interested in continued success like yours? Stay in touch with your clients.
Do You Want To Be A Featured Renewing Rewards Member? Contact Megan Hines at megan@truckee.com
Truckee.com
What has been your most rewarding project? This is a tough question... we provide many services. Managing projects from start to finish and then providing ongoing maintenance is always rewarding. Taking on new maintenance accounts that have been under maintained or neglected and bringing them up to our standards is always challenging but very rewarding. The most rewarding construction project of 2017 was a challenging site in Martis Camp which was built on two lots on a rather steep slope. There were various access issues and all equipment and materials had to be craned above an 8-10' retaining wall. There was also a green roof which we sodded, planted and installed sub-surface irrigation. This required many hours of heavy equipment time to place materials and countless hours for our team to move everything into place. All in all the project turned out great and I'm very proud with our team's results! What has been the greatest challenge overall to your business? The weather is always our biggest challenge. I tell clients "Mother Nature is our biggest business partner, we are most productive when she cooperates". What has been the most beneficial for your business? Having a strong, well-rounded team of hard working, dedicated individuals that have been with us for many seasons – some for 12+ years. What are your business goals? We have many goals, team and financially-related, but our number one goal right now is to continue to grow at a reasonable pace while sticking to our six core values: safety, quality, integrity, follow-through, team work, and profitability. Any tips or pointers for other small business owners in the region? Answer the phone! Return calls and emails in a reasonable time, treat others like you want to be treated, find your niche and stick with it, don't be afraid to think outside of the box, and work 14-16 hours days when necessary.
Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 7
GOOD MORNING TRUCKEE January 9 Focus on Youth Education & Programs Good Morning Truckee kicks off 2018 January 9th with a program focusing on Truckee youth and “The Power of Connections”. A lot of great things are happening at the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District (TTUSD) and Superintendent Chief Learning Officer Rob Leri will provide an update on the awardwinning school district’s accomplishments and all of TTUSD’s educational programs. He will also give an update on the facility upgrades underway and how TTUSD is saving taxpayers over $122 million in tax payments! The theme for this school year is “The Power of Connections" which sums up how TTUSD approaches each school day. They know it's essential for every student to have meaningful connections and relationships at their school, so they feel safe, comfortable, engaged, and set for success. Strong connections are important for the TTUSD staff and parents as well. They value their relationships and cultivate them, so they have strong connections throughout our school community. The Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe has been a cornerstone of the North Lake Tahoe community since opening its doors in 1998. Serving 1,500 youth annually, the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe provides a safe, structured and positive environment for
young people before and after school, during holidays and summer vacations. Mindy Carbajal, Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe will provide an update on how they are expanding their youth programs in Truckee.
February 13 Updates from Reno-Tahoe International and Truckee Tahoe Airports, and Mountain Lion Aviation The February 13th Good Morning Truckee will take to the air with presentations from the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, Truckee Tahoe Airport District, and Mountain Lion Aviation. Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority President/ CEO Marily Mora will provide the latest happenings in air service, and how RenoTahoe International Airport (RTIA) and RenoStead airports are economic engines for the region in addition to transportation centers. She will also touch upon the Reno-Tahoe Regional Air Service Committee (RASC) that brings together public and private organizations and businesses to contribute marketing dollars and expertise to brand the Reno-Tahoe area as one region and support RTIA efforts to develop new nonstop air service from priority markets. The Truckee Tahoe Airport District provides a high quality, safe facility for pilots, visitors and the community. Hear from General
Manager Kevin Smith as he provides an update of what’s going on at the airport and some of the community initiatives they support. Mountain Lion Aviation is the only ondemand, private charter air service with a fleet of four, state-of-the-art Cirrus aircraft operating out of the Truckee Tahoe Airport. As Truckee’s pay-for-hire charter air service, Mountain Lion Aviation is proud to make Truckee their base camp for pilot training, custom charter flights, and scenic tours with a private hanger opening in 2018. Hear from Devin Noe, Chief Possibilities Officer, how Mountain Lion is helping to serve Truckee’s mobility needs. Good Morning Truckee offers online registration at Truckee.com under What’s Happening. Good Morning Truckee is open to the public – everyone is invited. It is held the second Tuesday of every month at Truckee Tahoe Airport from 7:00-8:30am. Ticket price for general public is $12; Truckee Chamber members $10 and includes a hot breakfast and raffle ticket. Good Morning Truckee is presented by the Truckee Chamber of Commerce in partnership with sponsors Tahoe Forest Health System; Law Offices of Porter Simon; Dickson Realty Truckee Tahoe; Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation; Holdrege & Kull; Sierra Sun; 101.5FM Truckee Tahoe Radio; TTCTV; Truckee Tahoe Airport District; Town of Truckee, and Chef Ron Allen. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available.
Introducing the Truckee Core Values Fund The Truckee Core Values Fund is a newly established community fund created by the Truckee Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Town of Truckee and powered by the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation (TTCF). The fund supports 501(c) (3) organization events or event producers that partner with 501(c)(3) organizations that highly align with at least one of the five Truckee Core Values, takes place in the Town of Truckee and is focused on local citizen engagement, including 2nd homeowners. The first annual cycle for this new fund received 33 letters of interest of which 46% were focused on arts, culture and history. In May 2017, the Town of Truckee held a 8 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
public workshop on events that resulted in a key takeaway - citizens would like to see more cultural events! Given Truckee’s new designation as a California Cultural Arts District, this high percentage of cultural events is a positive step. In mid-December 2017, 23 organizations were sent invitations to complete the full application for funding.
Truckee Core Values
Recipients will be announced in late January. The breakdown of applications that aligned with each Truckee Core Value: 1. Arts, Culture, History (46%) 2. Community Minded (31%) 3. Healthy Lifestyle (10%) 4. Family Friendly (9%) 5. Natural Beauty (7%) The Truckee Chamber of Commerce, Town of Truckee and Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation wish to thank all organizations for making our town the great community that it is.
Truckee.com
Truckee.com – It’s Easy to Create Your Webpage! Truckee.com serves the information needs for locals (community happenings, events, jobs, meetings, business news, etc). Truckee.com is also marketed to visitors serving as the primary visitation and lodging booking portal for Truckee. Hundreds of Chamber members every month are successfully uploading their events, photos news and jobs. Are you? Every Truckee business, non-profit and/or group is invited to be listed on Truckee.com, however: ONLY CHAMBER MEMBERS receive access to create a FREE detailed webpage about your business! Be sure you take full advantage of your opportunity to create a user friendly and robust listing using keywords, photos, video, logos, a link to your direct website and more. ONLY CHAMBER MEMBERS will benefit from features that are critical for GOOGLE JUICE (aka search engine optimization). Attract Google search engine crawlers on a regular basis by uploading your events, photos, jobs, and news 24/7 using your secure Member dashboard. So what are you waiting for? If you don’t know where to start and have never logged in, you can e-mail Megan Hines, Membership Services Manager at megan@truckee.com. Megan can guide you through the steps to get you up and going. No time? No problem! If you simply don’t have the time or inclination to do this yourself don’t despair! Just let us know and for the low cost of $50 we’ll create your detailed web page for you – simple! Don’t miss out on one of the most valuable and powerful benefits of Chamber membership!
Hear what other members are saying about Truckee.com: “After several email reminders and putting it off for as long as possible, I finally built my business web page. It was incredibly easy and took much less time than I thought! I would encourage my fellow members to stop pushing this task down the list and just get it done.” -- Steve Saturno, Saturno Home Inspection, LLC “I find Truckee.com to be a great resource for local businesses. The online profile is easy to build with custom options, the customer service is excellent, and the web traffic is impressive. I highly recommend it to any local business looking to expand their market.” -- Liz Mettler, Dancing Pines “Extremely simple to use! There’s plenty of room for as much information and media as you have the will to upload. Easy to modify in an instant or with the seasons.” -- Eric Larusson, Villager Nursery “Thanks to the Chamber and Megan for making this system so easy to use! The instructions were very easy and the added screen shots helped me create the content and post to the page within minutes. This is a great benefit to membership and will continue to increase the value. Thanks again!” -- Warren W. Andrich, Marg’s Taco Bistro
Jobs on Truckee.com! It may surprise you to know that over $2,000 a year is spent on search engine marketing to drive traffic to the Truckee Jobs webpage on Truckee.com. Be sure and take advantage of this highly qualified traffic of job seekers looking for businesses that are aligned with the Truckee Chamber of Commerce.
Many times we hear feedback that the Chamber site is considered higher quality and more reputable than sites such as Indeed, Craigslist, and others. Login to your dashboard and post “general” jobs you are always looking for, during the entire season. Need help? Contact Megan Hines, Membership Services Manager at megan@truckee.com.
Hear what other members are saying about the Truckee Jobs webpage: “Putting a job ad on the webpage was very easy, and approvals usually happened within the day.” -- Yvonne, Wild Cherries Coffee House “On our page we love the Highlights & Job Postings. There is crucial information for everyday business, it just so happens that it’s very user friendly! We plan to utilize our page even more in the future!” -- Jesse Hunter, Bank of the West
Truckee.com
Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 9
MIXERS!
Good food, good people, great raffle prizes. Bring your business card. See you there.
MIXER
Thursday, January 18 | 5–7PM HOSTED BY: Tahoe Peaks Athletic Club WHERE: 11073 Donner Pass Road
Wednesday, January 31 | 5–7PM HOSTED BY: Alibi Ale Works
WHERE: 10069 Bridge Street
Thursday, February 22 | 5–7PM HOSTED BY: Tahoe Oil & Spice
WHERE: 10091 Donner Pass Road, Ste. B
February Date TBD | 5–7PM HOSTED BY: Tahoe Mountain Brewing Co. WHERE: 10990 Industrial Way, Ste. 103
Thursday, March 1 | 5–7PM
Haven’t been to a Mixer in awhile?
HOSTED BY: Bella Lago Aesthetics
We’ve got a great line-up of Chamber members opening their doors that would love to see you! Discover new businesses! Meet new people! Make some new connections in 2018!
WHERE: 10800 Donner Pass Road, Ste. A-103
Thursday, March 22 | 5–7PM
HOSTED BY: T3 Adventures (Cedar House Sport Hotel) WHERE: 10918 Brockway Road
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Mountain Arts Collective recently celebrated their grand opening in historic downtown in the Truckee Train Depot. Joined by Mayor Carolyn Wallace Dee, the gallery owners welcomed community members to their shop full of quality local artisan products. The five artists are closely connected to the
local community and surrounding environment and have created a dynamic space with artwork that caters to all types, from a homeowner looking for the perfect high-end statement piece to local customers looking for affordable gifts to buy for friends and family.
Chamber Welcomes Justin Swett, Communications Manager The Truckee Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Justin Swett as Communications Manager. Swett joins the team with years of outdoor sports industry experience, managing Giant Bicycles consumer marketing. In that capacity, he managed social media, email marketing, and athlete ambassador programs. Swett’s strategies contributed to increased sales and market share for Giant by reaching millions of targeted consumers and keeping them engaged with the brand. He also activated 10 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
special projects involving celebrity endorsements with Chefs Cycle for No Kid Hungry, Nitro Circus featuring Travis Pastrana, and also coordinated global campaigns with GoPro, Pinkbike, and WhistlerBlackcomb Resort. Prior to Giant, Swett lived in Truckee for eight years. He worked at Switchback Public Relations + Marketing managing media relations programs. He also worked as a marketing consultant elevating local businesses social media channels. As Communications Manager, Swett will work on visitation, economic and membership programs.
Truckee.com
New Members continued from page 2 Big Water Studios
Big Water Studios knows that consistent, creative and relevant content are what drives SEO. Their expertise in motion graphics, video production and social media marketing develops a steady flow of media content that drives consumer traffic to your web site or store front. Since 2000 Big Water Studios has been on the cutting edge of technology. Owner and chief designer Trina Gold can put together a custom package finely tuned for your business. Big Water Studios will guide you on choosing the best social media channel(s) that meet your business objectives. Captivating ads, in the right format, on the right platform, are strategically targeted to the consumer audience right for your business. They can help put your business at the forefront of marketing with cutting edge content and placements. Learn more at bigwaterstudios.com or call 530-363-2604.
Buchanan Law Group
Through Bob Buchanan and a number of contract attorneys, Buchanan Law Group serves business and tax law needs for small, closely held business clients from Lake Tahoe to the Bay Area. They focus on purchase and sale of businesses, business entity formations, reorganizations and restructurings, drafting of contracts and agreements, grant of stock, and LLC interests to employees. Bob Buchanan attended University of Alaska (B.A. in Justice), Gonzaga University School of Law (J.D.), and New York University School of Law (LL.M. in Taxation). He moved to California in 1995 to work as inhouse counsel at Hewlett-Packard Co. in Palo Alto, before starting Buchanan Law Group in 2001. A strong point of Bob’s practice is the knowledge he brings to the table to ensure business formations, purchases and sales, and reorganizations are accomplished in the most tax efficient and favorable manner. Contact Bob Buchanan at 530-582-4747 or email bob@buchananlaw.com.
COLDSTREAM ADVENTURES
COLDSTREAM ADVENTURES offers the ultimate snowmobile tour in Truckee-Tahoe with timbersleds coming soon.
Choose from a group, private, or corporate adventure designed with team building activities. COLDSTREAM ADVENTURES tours are great for both beginners and experienced riders alike. They guide patrons on a two-hour trip through a range of beautiful backcountry terrain up 2,000 vertical feet to a mountain ridge. COLDSTREAM ADVENTURES also offers concierge services that include extended tours, earlier or later meet-up times, pick-up and drop-off arrangements, wedding proposal planning, plus an extended variety of meal options from local restaurants. For more information and to book your adventure visit coldstreamadventures.com, call 530-582-9090, or email info.coldstream@gmail.com.
Drink Coffee Do Stuff
Introducing DRINK COFFEE DO STUFF. Truckee’s new neighborhood coffee roastery! DRINK COFFEE DO STUFF began as a philosophy five years ago at 12,000ft on the Saas-Fee glacier in Switzerland during founder Nick Visconti’s pro snowboard days. This philosophy continues strong today at the headquarters in Truckee. Fascinated by how coffee is embedded into the outdoor active lifestyle, Visconti obsessed over recreating this experience for friends. DRINK COFFEE DO STUFF (DCDS) believes that extraordinary coffee leads to an extraordinary life and this process begins with extraordinary sourcing. Their specialty coffee is grown between 4,000-9,000ft, distinguishing the company’s coffees as sourced from mountain people and roasted for mountain people. As a commitment to the Truckee-North Tahoe community, DCDS offers free local delivery every Friday. Homes and offices can subscribe to the Coffee Club, a subscription service that allows you to pick your coffee preference and delivery frequency at 10% off. For more information or to shop coffee visit drinkcoffeedostuff.com.
Fraas Mediation
Fraas Mediation specializes in non-litigation alternatives to dispute resolution and other family law services. With 27 years of experience in the court system, Fraas have worked in all areas of family law, including
prenuptial agreements, divorce, custody, support, adoption and property division. Fraas have appeared in hundreds of trials, hearings and settlement conferences. They understand the level of patience and cooperation required to help individuals bring peace and balance back into their lives without having to go to court and exhaust their resources. Fraas mediation services can provide a valuable alternative method to settling many of the disputes that accompany a dissolution or divorce that help save time, money, emotional strain, and achieve mutually. The experienced staff will custom tailor an affordable solution to resolve legal issues peacefully. Mediation can resolve issues including asset division, child support, child custody and spousal support (alimony). To learn more contact Fraas Mediation at 530546-4663 or infofraaslisa@gmail.com.
Gallery Keoki
Keoki Flagg is a world-renowned, award winning fine art and adventure photographer. His iconic images are curated in seven collections featuring Tahoe, World Adventure, Patrol Dogs, Elemental Hawaii, Another Perspective, Warren Miller Ski Movies, and his Private Collection. Gallery Keoki features Keoki Flagg photography exclusively in a beautiful studio located in Squaw Valley. All limited-edition images are built to order and feature a wide range of sizes including standard format, panoramas, multi panel, multi plane, and gift size prints on metal. The gallery specializes in finding an original perspective to visually define your spaces to embody identity and to inspire and resonate. Keoki’s images are presented through the photographic emulsion process on light responsive Fuji Crystal Archive Pearl paper then mounted on a 1.5-inch recessed subframe, allowing the photograph to float off the wall adding a three-dimensional aspect to the viewing experience. For more information contact Lynn Gibson, Partner, Director Custom Art Installations at 530-414-8500, e-mail lynn@gallerykeoki.com or visit gallerykeoki.com/installations.
GEOGRAPHY CREATIVE To date, the most industrious form of marketing is still word-of-mouth. Geography READ ABOUT MORE NEW MEMBERS P. 18
Truckee.com
Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 11
BUSINESS SPEAKS continued from page 1 partnerships are fundamental to improving that can lead to creative solutions. Meetings first Business Speaks! meetings will take place business outcomes.” will be held quarterly throughout 2018. The at the following times and locations: “The business community faces a dynamic and interdependent set of region-wide issues Join us January 23, 24 & 25 at one of the following that are larger than one or a few businesses Business Speaks meetings: can solve alone. The Chamber Board is committed to driving collaborative innovation Tuesday, January 23 – 8:00-9:30am Wednesday, January 24 – 4:00-5:30pm for what businesses need today and in the Base Camp #1 - Tahoe Donner area: Tahoe Base Camp #6 - The Rock / Sierra Meadows future. To do this, the Board is steadfast in our Donner Clubhouse area: Truckee Donner PUD focus of being a catalyst for change, convener Base Camp #3 - West River area: Truckee Base Camp #8 - Pioneer Commerce Center for business, and champion for a stronger Donner PUD area: BigTruck Brand business community,” explained Pam Hobday, Base Camp #4 - Sierra College area: Sierra Base Camp #10 - Northstar / Martis Valley College, Room 225 area: Lahontan Main Lodge Chair of the Chamber Board of Directors. “Harnessing the strengths and abilities of Wednesday, January 24 – 8:00-9:30am Wednesday, January 24 – 5:00-6:30pm others is one of the most strategic ways for Base Camp #2 Gateway / Donner Pass Base Camp #11 - Donner Summit area: Soda businesses to solve complex challenges. Over Road / Donner Lake area: Truckee Donner Springs Ski Resort Lodge my career, I have seen magic happen when PUD you get people together talking!” Base Camp #9 - Glenshire area: Truckee Thursday, January 25 – 8:00-9:30am All business owners, including homeCommunity Recreation Center Base Camp #5 - Downtown area: Truckee based businesses, are invited to attend a Tahoe Airport meeting in the Base Camp business area Register Today! where their business is physically located, Thursday, January 25 – 4:00-5:30pm Please visit truckeetomorrow.org to find however attendance at any meeting that is Base Camp #7 - Airport District your Base Camp and reserve your spot. convenient is also welcome. All meetings are area: Truckee Tahoe Airport inclusive, you don’t need to be a Chamber member to attend. Meetings will last just 90 Business Speaks! is a Truckee Tomorrow economic program led by the Truckee Chamber minutes and will be professionally facilitated of Commerce in partnership with the Town of Truckee and public/private partners with a format designed to allow businesses to dedicated to the well-being and vibrancy of Truckee. To learn more, visit speak candidly, while fostering conversation TruckeeTomorrow.org.
Truckee Tomorrow – Investing in Truckee’s Future You can now become an investor in Truckee’s future for generations to come on the new microsite TruckeeTomorrow.org where we post updates on Business Speaks, Quality of Life Survey, and Truckee Socio Economic Indicators. Watch Chamber and local communications for information about all of these initiatives – look for the logos below!
TruckeeTomorrow.org
12 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
Truckee.com
Silence Breakers and the #MeToo Movement
Sexual Harassment and Bullying Awareness and Prevention Workshop January 11th It seems every day new sexual misconduct scandals rock every sector of society. As a leader, do you possess the experience, muscle and gravitas to intervene, lead an investigation and ultimately mitigate what could become a significant threat to your organization? This workshop will provide steps to recognize, classify and intervene in harassment and bullying situations and to prevent the types of “abusive conduct” that a reasonable person would find hostile or offensive. This training satisfies California’s AB 1825 requirements. Join Sierra Human Resources Association (SHRA) for this very important
workshop, January 11th from 8:30-11:00am at the Truckee Tahoe Airport. Topics to be discussed include: Learn the three steps you can teach your team members to disrupt harassment and bullying and sexual harassment The harassment/bullying continuum The investigation and interviews Documenting and resolving complaints Derogatory and threatening remarks Insults, intimidation and humiliation Sabotaging or undermining work performance New legal requirements for January 2018 – Mandatory training to prevent gender identity harassment
Speaker will be Laura Moriarty, SPHR, SCP, a seasoned HR executive, nationally known corporate trainer and frequent presenter of Sierra Human Resources Association workshops. Online registration is $39 for SHRA & SHRM members; $49 for Chamber members; $59 for non-members. Register online at Eventbrite at http://bit.ly/2B2rKLE. No refunds; substitutions allowed. Presented by the Sierra Human Resources Association (SHRA) and cosponsored by the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact Laura Moriarty, SPHR at 530-573-0224 or Brandon Perry at 530-448-2522.
2018 Employment Update Seminar February 8 As we change the calendar to 2018 and throughout the coming year, employers will confront a host of new or amended federal, state, and/or local laws, case decisions and regulations. Plan to attend this important workshop being held February 8th from 8:00am-noon at the Truckee Tahoe Airport Community Room. Get informed about: New laws taking effect in 2018 and how they will the impact your business Parental leave for employers with 20 or more employees Statewide ban-the-box for criminal background checks on job applications Salary history ban when hiring
Mandatory Training to prevent Gender Identity Harassment California’s new law prohibiting voluntary cooperation with ICE Updates on wage and hour; discrimination issues, and leave/benefits laws California and Federal Case Update Significant Agency regulations David Cohen of Sacramento’s CohenDurrett will cover a wide array of employment and labor matters. His law firm represents employers in all phases of dispute resolution and litigation in a multitude of forums.
Early bird registration is $55 for Chamber & SHRA members; $65 for nonmembers. Walk-in registration is $70 for Chamber & SHRA members; $80 for nonmembers. Register online at sierrahra.org at the Online Store or through Eventbrite at http://bit.ly/2CXhtBM. Seating is limited and will fill quickly. No refunds; substitutions allowed. Presented by the Sierra Human Resources Association (SHRA) and cosponsored by the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact Brandon Perry at SHRA at 530-550-4442.
It’s Not Too Late!
Order Mandatory 2018 California and Federal Employment Poster from the Truckee Chamber The Truckee Chamber is making it easy for your business to comply with California’s labor laws. No matter how many employees you have in California, your business is required by law to post a current California and Federal Employment Poster in a central location. As part of a special partnership with CalChamber, the Truckee Chamber is Truckee.com
currently taking orders for the updated 2018 California and Federal Employment Poster. The CalChamber’s all-in-one poster contains the required state and federal employment notices every California employer must post. CalChamber is a trusted source for California and federal compliance products, with more than 120 years of experience helping California business do business. Failure to comply and have a current poster posted in a central location at your workplace could result in significant fines and penalties. Posters must be displayed in
a conspicuous place where all employees can easily read it, such as a break room, common hallway, payroll office or other common location. Employers must also display posters in each company location. The Truckee Chamber wants to make sure your business is in compliance. An order form in included inside this issue of Truckee Tracks, download one by visiting Truckee.com/Chamber, or contact Megan Hines, Membership Services Manager at 530-412-7057, email megan@truckee.com. Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 13
2017 Awards Dinner The 2017 Chamber Awards Dinner was a grand event with over 400 in attendance. A total of 107 businesses were nominated in 9 categories. Businesses and individuals are nominated by their peers, with the winners chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors, who judiciously review the nominations. After thorough discussion and deliberation, a winner is chosen. The Truckee Chamber held its 64th Annual Awards Dinner last October at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe. It is an amazing night that brings the business community together to celebrate our successes, recognize the strong relationships we all share, and re-ignite our passion for Truckee. It is a time to honor businesses and individuals who have exemplified excellence and for their contributions to the community. Congratulations to all the nominees and to the 2017 award winners: Large Business of the Year: Northstar California Small Business (1-10): Quality Automotive & Smog Small Business (11-49): Molsby & Bordner – MOBO Law Hospitality Award: Paul Spencer, Truckee Fire Protection District Volunteers of the Year: Andy & Alicia Barr Non-Profit Organization of the Year: Project MANA New Business of the Year: Old Town Tap Revitalization Award: Dave Wilderotter, Tahoe Dave’s Skis and Boards Excellence in Government: Truckee Donner Public Utility District Special recognition was given to Johan Sotelo, a Truckee High School student whose volunteer efforts within our community are a shining example and inspiration for our youth. Thank you to this year’s generous sponsors including: Big Life Sponsors: Dickson Realty (KJM); FiftyFifty Brewing Co.; Martis Camp; Northstar California; Porter Simon; Tahoe Donner Association; Tahoe Forest Health System; Truckee Tahoe Airport District. Gold Sponsors: Coldwell Banker – Christy Curtis; Dickson Realty; Holliday Development; Mountain Hardware & Sports; Pamela Hurt Associates; Tahoe Truckee Unified School District; Spiked Soil; The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe; Town of Truckee; TrailRunner International; Truckee-Tahoe Lumber Company. Silver Sponsors: Best Western Plus, Truckee-Tahoe Hotel; bigtruck brand; Clear Capital; Elements Mountain Co.; JMA Ventures; LP Insurance; Molsby & Bordner; Morgan’s Lobster Shack & Fish Market; Mountain Lion Aviation; OLAB; Placer Title Company; Tahoe Getaways; Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation; Tri Counties Bank; Truckee Donner Lodge; Truckee Donner Public Utility District; Truckee River Winery; Waddell & Reed – John Manocchio; W&T Graphix. Thanks to our in-kind sponsors: Atelier – Event decorations; CRUX – event decorations; Grant Kaye Creative – opening video; Hunter & Company – event decorations; Just Imagine Marketing & Design – event collateral and website; Mountain Hardware & Sports – event decorations; Mountain Lion Aviation – tshirts for attendees; PSAV – event audio visual package; Rob Retting Photography (SNAP) – event photography; Rotor Collective Digital Cinema – “Big Life” Sponsor videos; Tahoe Truckee School of Music – reception entertainment; Truckee River Winery – custom label wine.
Photos by: Rob Retting Photography All photos from event can be viewed and purchased at RobRettingPhotography.com
Save the Date!
2018 Awards Dinner
October 12, 2018, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe 14 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
Thanks to our Live Auction Package donations: Tahoe Sports Hub – Ski boots & custom boot fitting package The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco – 2-night stay Rotor Collective Digital Cinema – Video package California Ski Industry Association – Ski California Gold Pass Tahoe Native Surfboard – custom, handmade wooden surfboard & lessons Thanks to all the local businesses that contributed items toward the Silent Auction, and to the Chamber Ambassadors Committee for their volunteer efforts in securing the items. And thank you to our Master of Ceremonies, Jim Simon Truckee.com
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Town Names Denyelle Nishimori, Community Development Director and Jenna Gatto, Planning Manager The Town of Truckee recently announced Denyelle Nishimori as the new Community Development Director. Denyelle brings over 15 years of progressively responsible land use and environmental planning and design experience and a wealth of local knowledge and Truckee planning expertise. Denyelle was most recently the Truckee Town Planner (and prior to that, Planning Manager), supervising the entire Planning Division. She has been instrumental in the Railyard Master Plan, Joerger Ranch Specific Plan, 2025 Truckee General Plan, and dozens of applications and projects throughout the community. Jenna Gatto, an 11-year veteran of the Truckee Planning Division, will be stepping into the position of Planning Manager. In this role, Jenna will manage the work of Truckee Planning and its seven staff members. Jenna, who is also AICP, has served as the Town’s Senior Planner since 2014 managing projects ranging from the complex and lengthy cannabis dialogue to planning applications of all types. She has been involved in several major specific plans, streetscape improvement projects, the Town’s Economic Development
Strategy, the Trails and Bikeways Master Plan Update, and manages the Town’s Historic Preservation program. Planning Working Group As a first course of action in their new roles, Denyelle and Jenna will initiate a Planning Working Group, akin to a similar effort that has proved successful in recent years for the Building Division, under the direction and inspiration of Chief Building Official, Johnny Goetz. The Working Group, which will start soon after the first of the year, will be a platform to increase Planning Division transparency and responsiveness to community expectations, fundamental to the “Truckee Way.” This community engagement approach to governance is central to the Town’s ethos and core values and imperative to quality customer service. The working group will include representatives from all aspects of the community who work and interact with the Planning Division. The new working group along with a fresh perspective on community partnerships and an open door policy are just the beginning of what is to come for the Town’s Community Development Department.
Mountain Housing Council of Tahoe Truckee Update
The Mountain Housing Council of Tahoe Truckee brings together 25 committed stakeholders to take on the unique and pressing challenges of housing in the North Tahoe-Truckee region. Their mission is to work together to accelerate solutions to
Truckee.com
local and achievable housing for those that live in the Tahoe-Truckee region. To stay in touch with the Mountain Housing Council work, visit their website at mountainhousingcouncil.org. This website serves as a compendium of information on local housing programs, innovative housing types, area government policy, what other mountain communities are doing, and more.
Town Council Approves New Trash and Recycling Services Truckee Town Council approved a new 10-year solid waste and recycling franchise agreement at their Council Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2017. The Town’s current agreement with Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal (TTSD) expires June 30, 2018 which provided staff an opportunity to incorporate community priorities in developing new solid waste services. After extensive community engagement and over a year and a half of negotiations between the Town and TTSD, a franchise agreement with a host of new, sustainable services for residential and commercial customers was brought to Council. New Commercial Services Commercial customers will receive wildliferesistant food waste carts that will be serviced up to three times a week. These carts will provide more efficient collection of food waste than the current yellow bag program. Businesses will also receive carts for recyclables. Food waste carts will not be available until January 2019. Both of these programs will comply with California’s state mandated waste collection rules. Commercial trash bins 3yards or larger will be serviced up to five times a week. Small commercial customers may utilize hauler provided mixed-waste carts. A new town staff member has been hired to provide technical assistance for businesses. Stay tuned for public workshops. To schedule your one-on-one appointment to understand what to expect and how to be prepared before August 1, please call Melanie Conti at 530-582-2496 or email mconti@townoftruckee.com. To read full press release including details on new residential services, visit townoftruckee.com.
Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 15
MEMBERS GET MORE LOVE!! New Digital Benefits To welcome new members, and thank renewing members, the Truckee Chamber of Commerce has created some new digital benefits: All new members will now get a Truckee.com blog post about your business. This post is a great way to get your business name out there and explain your overall business model and what you specialize in. This also creates very valuable Google “juice”, also known as SEO with a unique URL for your business, backed by the Truckee Chamber. All new members will now receive a post on the Truckee Chamber Facebook
page. This “Welcome” message will also point to your blog post on Truckee.com. Renewing Rewards Initiated in 2011, the Truckee Chamber selects two members to feature in each issue of Truckee Tracks (see page __ of this issue). These articles will now appear on Truckee.com as a blog post. Members featured are chosen by the Chamber staff from the most recent list of renewals. If you would like to be considered as a “Renewing Rewards” member, please contact Megan Hines, Membership Services Manager at megan@truckee.com
Member Referral Program Know someone who might be interested in joining the Chamber? As a valued member of our organization, you can play an active role in helping the Chamber grow its membership by forwarding your referrals to our Membership Services Manager Megan Hines. By referring companies or organizations to the Chamber, you’re not only contributing to the vitality of our broader business community, but also to the continued success of your colleague’s business. To thank you, for each referral that results in a membership, the Chamber will reward you with $25 cash.
Thanks to the following members for their recent referrals: MEMBER
NEW MEMBER
Big Blue Adventure, LLC······················································· Tahoe Dirt Bikes Erskine Photography ····························································· COLDSTREAM ADVENTURES Switchback Studio ·································································· Fraas Mediation
Tourism Committee Winter Meeting - February 8th Here’s what some of your peers are saying about the Tourism Committee: “These quarterly meetings are super informative and beneficial.” -Nichole Reitter, Director of Sales and Marketing, Tahoe Mountain Lodging
Are you a Marketing professional in the Truckee tourism industry? If so, please join us February 8th (location TBD) for the Truckee Chamber of Commerce’s, Winter Tourism Committee meeting. These quarterly meetings inform, update, connect and seek input and engagement from key tourism focused businesses. It’s a valuable opportunity to network and meet your peers in the tourism industry to foster collaboration. To receive an invitation to join, contact Megan Hines, Membership Services Manager at megan@truckee.com.
“The Truckee Chamber tourism meetings offer the unique opportunity to hear the current initiatives of local businesses and ski resorts as well as learn the prevailing messaging from the Truckee Chamber, including digital media updates, recent news and accolades. As a community, we provide exceptional experiences to visitors when everyone is informed, and when we work together to support local businesses. I'm always happy to have attended this meeting. They are well run, keeping everything on schedule.” -Judith Kline, Marketing Director, Tahoe Luxury Properties “Truckee tourism meetings are a great way to meet in person and stay current. This helps all of us work together as a team towards marketing Truckee as a destination.” -- Kathy Hess, Director of Sales, Hampton Inn & Suites, Tahoe-Truckee; Owner, Just Imagine Marketing & Design
MEGAN HINES, Membership Services Manager Your connection to the Chamber! Megan assists and manages all Chamber member relations, helping you thrive through the many programs the Chamber offers. Megan has a BS in Marketing and worked for Coach Inc. in New York City where she developed innovative strategies and partnerships with other retailers to increase store sales. 16 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
Truckee.com
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS CATT Selects New Executive Director The Contractors Association of Truckee Tahoe (CATT) is pleased to announce that longtime Truckee resident Kellie Cutler has been selected as the new Executive Director, effective January 1, 2018. Kellie will take over the administrative duties previously performed by Pat Davison. Pat will be serving as CATT’s Government Affairs Manager.
Kellie brings 17 years of non-profit administrative and management experience from various organizations in the Reno Tahoe area. Kellie most recently worked for North Tahoe Arts and the SPCA of Northern Nevada. Kellie will oversee CATT programs, such as the popular Job to Bid referral system, and coordinate staff activities with committees and the Board of Directors. In addition, Kellie will assume the role of Administrator for C.A.T.T. Community Project, CATT’s sponsored 501 c3 charitable organization.
CATT President Mike Nethersole said, “We are thrilled to welcome Kellie to CATT. We are celebrating our 20th anniversary in 2018 and Kellie’s background and expertise will be invaluable in helping us grow to new heights. And with Pat’s transition to Government Affairs Manager, we will be better able to focus our efforts on advocacy for the building industry in 2018. Given all the jurisdictions we cover and our growing membership base, there is a never ending supply of issues.”
Clever Minds Welcomes Psychologist Dr. Abby Ferguson In their pursuit to become a onestop-shop for all types of educational services in Truckee, Clever Minds is excited to announce the hiring of Dr. Abby Ferguson a licensed Clinical Psychologist with a doctorate in psychology. She specializes in working with children and families, and also
has extensive experience working with adults. For the last six years, Abby has worked in a therapeutic day school with children struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities, grief and loss, and Autism. During this time, Abby was not only able to work with children and families but also worked directly with school districts on Individualized Education Programs as well as with teachers and school staff to implement interventions in the classroom setting. She has provided trainings for teachers and parents to help them increase their
awareness of and ability to work with children with different learning profiles and emotional and behavioral struggles in the school setting. Over the years, Abby has gained extensive training in family therapy and has seen what a positive impact it can have for her clients as well as their parents and siblings. Abby is very excited to offer this service to her clients in Truckee. For more information on Clever Minds, visit cleverminds.org or call 530-582-1707.
Tahoe Donner Hires David Smith as New Chef at Alder Creek Cafe Tahoe Donner recently announced the hiring of David Smith as its new chef at Alder Creek Cafe. Bringing 30 years of culinary experience, Smith will oversee the menu selection and kitchen operations for the restaurant located in the Truckee.com
Alder Creek Adventure Center at Tahoe Donner’s Cross Country Ski Center. Originally from upstate New York, Smith worked under top chefs at Chambers Landing and The West Shore Café, and headed up kitchens for Encore Catering, Blue Water Brewery and Homestead Restaurant in Homer, Alaska. For the past 22 years, Smith served as chef of Cottonwood Restaurant in Truckee, earning Best Chef and Best Overall Restaurant awards multiple times.
Smith uses a variety of inspiring ingredients to create his menu drawing creativity from many cultures. He sources local, seasonal and organic ingredients whenever possible and seeks out the best natural meats and sustainable seafood. “As the newly appointed chef at Alder Creek Cafe, I’m excited to bring my cooking style to the Cafe’s new winter menu,” said Smith. “My focus is providing homemade, healthy and delicious options for guests to enjoy year-round.” Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 17
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Members Making a Difference
Mark Dickson of Simple Power Helps Haitians Rebuild Their Systems
Over the past seven years, Mark Dickson from Simple Power has been traveling to small villages in Haiti to create solutions with solar power and train and empower local Haitians to learn the skills needed to continue utilizing solar power on their own. Mark’s first trip to Haiti was in 2010 after the major 7.0M earthquake hit. At the time Mark was working for a solar company in Montana and was approached by a local
pastor asking if he would consider a trip to Haiti to help some of the villages rebuild their systems. After a successful and meaningful first trip Mark returned to the states with new ideas. When planning their second trip, Mark and his wife decided they would try to raise $8,000 to install and provide training on a solar water pumping system in the remote Haitian village of Te Wouj where there is no access to clean drinking water. The system provides safe, sanitary water for the entire village, but most importantly relieves children of their daily water hauling responsibilities so they can focus on their education and childhood. Mark also provided hands-on training about the installation, maintenance and upkeep of solar water pumping systems. Mark has returned to Haiti several more times and has worked closely with the Loving Shepherd Ministry. LSM focuses on putting Haitian orphans in loving homes with
other children where they can thrive and develop educational and business opportunities. Mark works as a project manager in the building of solar arrays for these homes and facilities. He also trains young adults in a newly built occupational center so the future generations can work towards owning their own solar company. Last November, Mark completed his sixth trip to Les Cayes and completed the installation of solar arrays for the main LSM office, an LSM owned block plant, and two Homes of Hope. Local LSM employees were also trained on the installation and project management aspects of installing solar commercially. Mark appreciates all the support from the local Truckee community and says the support and generous funds from local business owners make him proud to call Truckee his “Base camp for a Big Life.”
New Members continued from page 11 Creative specializes in creating digital wordof-mouth. Founded this summer by Truckee local Laura Lawson Visconti, Geography is the culmination of over a decade’s worth of experience in digital marketing and visual storytelling in both outdoor and travel industries. Geography Creative serves clients locally and globally in campaign development, social media strategy, content production and influencer marketing. Visit us online at wearegeography.com or say hello: laura@wearegeography.com
Heikoach
Personal trainer of Heikoach, Heiko Mueller is a sports scientist from Germany. Mueller graduated with a degree in sports science from the Goethe University in Frankfurt, where he was certified a personal trainer by the German Fitness Teacher Association. Mueller recently relocated to Truckee with his fiancée working as a personal coach to
18 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
train people who are interested in a balanced healthy and active lifestyle. Mueller trains athletes from individual and team sports to improve their performance or recover from serious injury. Mueller also works with non-athletes to prevent or rehabilitate physical complaints like joint or back pain, focusing on correct use of muscle movements for daily activities. Heikoach stands for high quality of coaching and consulting. With the knowledge of a sports scientist, Heikoach can offer you the best service you deserve. For more information contact Heiko at 530-414-9914.
Karma Dog Kamp
Karma Dog Kamp provides pet expeditions that help burn-off your dog’s extra energy with doggie play dates that include hiking, swimming, snowshoeing, cross‐country skiing and more. Karma Dog Kamp is a valet pet service that includes full service pick up and drop off
dog expeditions. The business services both the local community and visitors who may not have enough time to give their pets the proper karma that they deserve. For more information visit karmadogkamp.com or call the owner Carrie Bono at 530-448-7193.
PKH Nursing Care, PC
Promoting health, safety, and wellness for patients in the Truckee-North Tahoe area, PKH Nursing Care was created to help supplement one-on-one registered nursing needs of local residents, and of visitors. From a simple need such as medication management, to more complex monitoring of long term medical conditions, or in-home nursing, support is available by Paula Henrikson who is a RN, CEO, certified in gerontology, and an assessment coordinator. Henrikson is a nurturer of the elderly that offers a calm and sensible approach. Henrikson’s method is based on the belief in READ ABOUT MORE NEW MEMBERS P. 20
Truckee.com
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Clear Capital Leading the Way in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Capabilities Clear Capital is transforming the real estate valuations and analytics industry by bringing the theoretical to reality. The organization shares how it’s executing on leading AI and machine learning technology coupled with a growing talent team that is revolutionizing how customers interact with its solutions and services. The established industry innovator is ramping up its progressive machine learning and AI efforts in order to develop more efficient and more accurate valuation, risk and workflow tools. “We have spent more than 15 years gathering, organizing and optimizing one of the most complete and organized collection of property data. This increased focus on AI and machine learning is a natural next step in advancing the solutions that our customers deserve,” commented Clear Capital President and CoFounder Kevin Marshall. “We also recognize that the best way to drive innovation for our partners is working with the best people.” Clear Capital hired Nick Kolegraff as its Director of Machine Learning and AI to lead efforts that focus on efficiency and
Truckee.com
simplifying the lives of customers through products and processes. Nick’s background is predominantly focused on machine learning across real time massive scale data systems. Kolegraff is focused on delivering enhanced product experiences for Clear Capital customers that will provide them with the ability to access current AI and machine learning functionality. “My fascination with numbers began early in my life when I discovered that a computer could be programmed to solve complex problems,” shared Kolegraff. “Understanding how AI and machine learning can work together to give people a life of unimagined possibilities rather than a life less evolved has been a major motivating factor in joining Clear Capital’s growing team of future-thinking leaders.” Clear Capital’s technology group, which also includes AI, machine learning and data science, is slated to grow by an additional 50 percent in 2018. This growth will support the organization’s continued advancement of reimagined products and solutions.
Headwaters Science Institute Selected as 2018 Semifinalist for SVP Sacramento Fast Pitch Social Venture Partners of Sacramento (SVP), a network of engaged philanthropists focused on improving Sacramento-area education, recently announced that Headwaters Science Institute has been selected as a semi-finalist for SVP Sacramento Fast Pitch, to be hosted at Golden 1 Center. “The value of Fast Pitch can be measured quantitatively - 66 total nonprofits supported with over $600,000 in follow-on funding since 2015 - but the real value of the program is in the magic of each nonprofit cohort. Since 2015, 98% of participants have rated SVP Fast Pitch as a valuable experience that allowed them to make nonprofit and corporate connections they otherwise would not have connected with” said Bree Cahill, Executive Director SVP Sacramento. SVP will provide Headwaters with more than $11,000 of in-kind consulting and support by industry leaders and professionals. In-kind services include peerto-peer coaching, professional video content, educational services and donor relations support along with a chance to pitch at Golden 1 Center in March 2018. Headwaters Science Institute joins a semi-finalist pool of 20 nonprofits and a growing alumni list of 46 nonprofits throughout the Sacramento Region. The process spans four months, from December 2017 through March 2018, as 20 nonprofit participants and 40 coaches work together through group and 2:1 coaching sessions to hone each 3-minute pitch. Nonprofits also take part in a series of workshops leading up to the final event. On March 8th, 2018, 10 nonprofit finalists will take the stage at Golden 1 Center and pitch their stories of impact.
Winter 2018 | TRUCKEE TRACKS 19
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE Change Service Requested
PA I D KINGS BEACH, CA PERMIT #1
10065 Donner Pass Road Truckee, CA 96161 530-587-8808 truckee.com
New Members continued from page 18 concepts of healthy living, prevention and wellness of the whole person. Henrikson’s experience working in both acute and longterm care has equipped her to provide nursing care to adults of all ages, as well as end of life care. To learn more, contact Henrikson at pkhendrikson@gmail.com or call 530-3864632.
Plumas-Sierra Telecommunications
Plumas-Sierra Telecommunications (PST) provides broadband services to Lassen, Plumas, Sierra and Nevada counties in California, and Washoe County, Nevada. PST is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PlumasSierra Rural Electric Cooperative, which is member-owned and provides electric and internet services north of Truckee. PST recently expanded into the Truckee area thanks to an agreement with Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) that allows PST to lease TDPUD’s existing fiber optic infrastructure in order to expand highspeed internet services in the area. PST is currently serving key commercial districts in Truckee and offers speeds up to 1 gigabyte per second with no data caps, and is always Net Neutral. The area around Highway 89 North and Interstate-80 is well covered by PST services as well as the business districts. Residential areas may be served depending on the level of interest and the costs for PST to connect. Sign up for service or be added to the 20 TRUCKEE TRACKS | Winter 2018
interest list by calling 800-221-3474 or pst.coop.
Tahoe Dirt Bikes
Tahoe Dirt Bikes is an off-road rental business that has grown in the last five years to include dirt bikes, street bikes, timbersled snow bikes, side-by-sides, and UTVs. Tahoe Dirt Bikes is a year-round business owned by local Daron Huck, who moved to Truckee in 2001 to enjoy the area's outdoor recreation opportunities. Tahoe Dirt Bikes works under guiding and outfitting special use permits from the Truckee ranger district of the Tahoe National Forest to provide adventure seekers safe, responsible, and enjoyable off-road experiences. Rentals and tours can be catered to all ability levels, from novice to expert. Whether you're looking for friendly advice on trails, a self-guided rental, or interested in booking a guided off-road adventure, Tahoe Dirt Bikes will steer you in the right direction. For more information visit tahoedirtbikes.com.
Tahoe Mountain Brewing Co.
Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company opened its doors in 2012 with experimentation in the brewhouse and barrel-aging cellar being the main goal from day one. With respect to tradition and age-old methods, the brewers harmoniously blend modern science, spontaneity, creativity, and the best ingredients available to produce a wide range of fine craft ales and lagers.
Tahoe Mountain Brewing Co. (TMBC) has two locations, one in Tahoe City and another in Truckee. The Tahoe City location sits directly across the street from the shores of Lake Tahoe featuring eight rotating taps, including barrel aged beers, and a menu full of traditional delicious American cuisine. The Truckee location features fifteen taps of eclectic styles ranging from west coast style IPA's to barrel aged sour beer. The dog friendly TMBC Taproom near downtown Truckee allows guests to kick back and relax by the fire. To learn more visit tahoebrewing.com.
Tahoe Signature Properties
Tahoe Signature Properties’ goal is to provide the best vacation rentals and property management services in Lake Tahoe and Truckee. The incredible team consists of talented property management with years of experience allowing them to provide a high-quality experience to both homeowners and guests. Homeowners will appreciate a complete selection of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee property management services, while guests will be blown away by Tahoe Signature Properties responsiveness to their needs and commitment to help them plan a memorable vacation. Trust the expert team and top-notch vacation property management services at Tahoe Signature Properties to handle all aspects of your vacation rental home. For more information visit tahoesignatureproperties.com. Truckee.com