Saddle Up for the 6th Annual
Meet Tahoe Donner’s Director of the Tennis + Pickleball Center, Ian Mindell
Restoring Euer Valley While Strengthening the Relationship Between People and Place
The Buzz Local Activities, Dining + Updates
Lindsay Hogan Drew Deurlington Carlynne Fajkos Cynthia Cendreda Jesus Antonio Vazquez Will Apotheker
Annie Rosenfeld | General Manager arosenfeld@tahoedonner.com
Miah Cottrell | Director of Information Technology mcottrell@tahoedonner.com
John Groom | Director of Land Management + Open Space jgroom@tahoedonner.com
Jason Hajduk-Dorworth | Director of Administrative Services jhajduk@tahoedonner.com
Lindsay Hogan | Director of Communications + Member Relations lhogan@tahoedonner.com
Justin Malley | Director of Finance + Accounting jmalley@tahoedonner.com
Jon Mitchell | Director of Capital Projects + Facilities jmitchell@tahoedonner.com
Mike Peters | Director of Food + Beverage mpeters@tahoedonner.com
Miguel Sloane | Director of Operations msloane@tahoedonner.com
President | Benjamin Levine blevine@tahoedonner.com
Vice President | Denise Gauny dgauny@tahoedonner.com
Treasurer | Don Koenes dkoenes@tahoedonner.com
Secretary | Courtney Murrell cmurrell@tahoedonner.com
Director | Jay Wertheim jwertheim@tahoedonner.com
POSTMASTER: Periodical postage paid at Truckee, California and additional mailing offices. Send address changes to Tahoe Donner News + Life, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161; (530) 587-9400, Fax (530) 579-3224
EMAIL: comdep@tahoedonner.com
ADVERTISING SALES: CC Media + Publishing is the exclusive advertising representative: (775) 742-9850 | laura@ccmpublishing.com
PUBLISHING INFORMATION
Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an infringement of that service mark right and is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Tahoe Donner Association or its board of directors of the products, services or views contained therein.
Tahoe Donner News + Life (ISSN 1550-6061) is the official monthly publication of Tahoe Donner Association, which is located at 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161. Each membership parcel receives one subscription to a domestic address. Cost to produce and distribute this publication is offset by advertising revenues. Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and additional mailing offices. Member letters to Tahoe Donner are published in the Member Portal; details available at tahoedonner.com/member-letters
Tahoe Donner News + Life is created largely in-house and is printed on certified recycled paper stock using soybased inks.
In my president’s address at the Annual Meeting in June, I concluded that Tahoe Donner is strong and moving boldly forward because we are working together as a community. That is why we accomplished so much for Tahoe Donner members over the last year.
In June, I attended the grand opening for a new deck at the Marina. We also recently completed work on the expanded Glacier Way Trailhead. This summer, we are building a new boardwalk and bridge at Coyote Crossing in Euer Valley, funded in large part by public grant monies. All three of these projects have one thing in common: they were all stalled and deferred for a decade or more. Today, these improvements are all either complete or actively under construction. And placing more than 17 years of indecision, delay and division in the past, the new Ski Lodge is being built. Construction is proceeding on budget and on time to be ready for opening day in December.
Putting members first, last fall the board approved a new Amenity Access Rule, completing the most significant update to our amenity access system in 35 years. The new rule represents a reinvigorated commitment to honoring your member rights and improving your member benefits and enjoyment. Once fully implemented, the new rule will ensure that members no longer feel priced out by nickel-and-dime fees or crowded out by non-members.
Bringing years of staff, committee and board collaboration to fruition, the board recently approved a comprehensive update to all of Tahoe Donner’s capital and financial policies. This long-overdue update is designed to complete our
transition into a slow and steady capital savings plan that keeps our reserves strong, while avoiding sticker-shock assessment increases and assuring continued community enhancement. The new policies also demystify our capital improvement planning, and revamp our budgeting to be more responsive and precise, while underscoring Tahoe Donner’s revitalized dedication to our members.
Building upon these accomplishments, we are now working to renew our longrange planning efforts. Our goal is to ensure that Tahoe Donner remains the vibrant, thriving community that we all want it to be. To begin, we will be launching a new strategic planning initiative, the Tahoe Donner Community Plan, which we expect to develop over the next couple years. We hope that you will join us for those forward-looking conversations to build consensus around our community’s values and shared vision for Tahoe Donner’s future.
Lastly, speaking on behalf of the board, staff and the members, I wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to former Director Jim Roth, who stepped off the board in June after six successful years of service to our community. As we say a warm farewell to Jim, we are also pleased to welcome Jay Wertheim, Tahoe Donner’s newest board member.
As always, please look for me around Tahoe Donner, say hello and let me know what’s on your mind!
Benjamin Levine Board President blevine@tahoedonner.com
BY TIFFANY CONNOLLY
Snaking through Tahoe Donner's Euer Valley, the South Fork of Prosser Creek, which feeds into the Truckee River, is a vital source of habitat and food for local wildlife and flora. Winding its way along the valley floor, it provides a peaceful respite for recreational users. However, as beautiful as the valley and creek may be, the area has a more complicated story to tell.
To the untrained eye, the Euer Valley floodplain and meadow may appear to be thriving. Still, its storied history of logging, cattle ranching, dairy farming, recreational use and more has degraded its natural state.
A close study of the valley's ecological conditions by the Truckee River Watershed Council sparked a partnership with Tahoe Donner to embark on a radical and innovative project to restore the area. Designed with both people and nature in mind, the restoration project maintains recreational access so everyone can continue to enjoy the unique sense of place the Euer Valley offers.
As the original stewards of this region, the Washoe (Wašiw) lived in harmony with the land, using the valley in the warmer seasons for hunting and gathering. That balance was disrupted as settlers moved west during the California Gold Rush, gradually encroaching on Washoe territory. By the 1860s, extensive logging had begun in the valley to support construction of the transcontinental railroad. These events marked the start of a period of industrial and agricultural use. In time, the Euer family acquired land in the area and established dairy and cattle operations that would continue for generations. Their ranch remained active through the early 2000s, when Tahoe Donner purchased the first 200-acre section of the valley.
After Tahoe Donner purchased the initial 200 acres, cattle grazing was prohibited in that section. However, grazing continued in the rest of the valley until 2015. Tahoe Donner later purchased an additional 482 acres in Euer Valley.
That history laid the groundwork for a new chapter. As Tahoe Donner grew, so did interest in stewardship among its members. In response, Tahoe Donner developed a land management plan and participated in the Donner Lake Basin Watershed
Assessment in partnership with the Watershed Council.
It was this collaboration that inspired Tahoe Donner to support a similar assessment for the Prosser Creek Watershed.
In 2012, Tahoe Donner began developing a trails master plan, recognizing the need for restoration and rerouting due to legacy impacts. The Prosser Creek Watershed Assessment further identified multiple project opportunities in Euer Valley on Tahoe Donner-owned land. Concerns included Coyote Crossing, the culverts under the Nordic trail crossing and the west Euer Valley summer trail located in a wet meadow. Phase One of the restoration project will address Coyote Crossing, while Phase Two will focus on multiple projects within the middle and east portions of Euer Valley.
The Coyote Crossing project was included among the recommended improvement projects in Tahoe Donner's Trails Master Plan. The initial assessment indicated that this project would be highly complex, which the Prosser Creek Watershed Assessment confirmed. Because of the Watershed Council’s excellent reputation in restoration projects and in their ability to seek and obtain grant funding, Tahoe Donner and the Watershed Council jointly identified that this project would be a prime candidate for building a partnership and receiving grant funds to cover much of the project costs.
The Euer Valley Restoration Project is built on a shared vision that includes goals for Prosser Creek restoration, year-round recreation and the demonstration that grant funding can support environmental
improvements on private land. The effort serves as a test case for collaboration between nonprofits and private landowners.
Michele Prestowitz, Executive Director of the Truckee River Watershed Council, said that they are very excited about this partnership. While the Watershed Council has traditionally worked with public landowners, Michele explained that large portions of the watershed are privately owned, making it critical to work within those lands as well.
The driving force behind the Watershed Council’s involvement is ecosystem uplift. Prestowitz identified climate change, catastrophic wildfire and increased recreational pressure as the three primary threats to the local ecosystem. “I would absolutely put the increased pressures of recreation as a primary threat to our watershed, to our ecosystem,” she said.
The goal is to allow people to enjoy nature while minimizing the impact of human activity on habitat, wildlife, hydrology, erosion and water quality.
Eben Swain, Project Director at the Truckee River Watershed Council and head of the Euer Valley Restoration Project, remembers the moment the seeds for restoration were planted. “This all began when we noticed severe stream incision near Coyote Crossing,” he said.
Located at the western edge of Tahoe Donner’s property, the area had degraded over time, not only impacting water flow but also posing problems for recreation infrastructure.
That discovery set in motion a vision for restoration that will:
Restore 30 acres of highquality meadow habitat:
Replacing an old, failing culvert with a 150-foot bridge over the South Prosser Creek to allow the creek to flow naturally again across the meadow and provide sustainable access for recreation.
Improve aquatic habitat conditions and water quality:
Restoring the creek by making improvements along a half-mile stretch of the South Prosser Creek to improve habitat for fish and other wildlife.
Provide sustainable recreational access:
Adding a 512-foot boardwalk that will replace damaged trails, protecting the meadow and making it easier for everyone to enjoy.
Improve drainage along one mile of degraded roadway:
Fix the road along South Euer Valley Road to prevent erosion and keep the road in good shape.
Phase One of the project has begun and encompasses design, permitting, funding and construction on the west end of Euer Valley. It includes improvements to South Euer Valley Road, Coyote Crossing, the bridge, the boardwalk and more. “There will be this beautiful new trail coming down to the river, with a new structure that lets people stop comfortably and gaze and really experience the habitat that Euer Valley supports,” said Annie Rosenfeld, General Manager of Tahoe Donner.
The design process involved a wide range of specialists, including biologists, botanists, geomorphologists, geotechnical engineers and civil engineers. These experts conducted extensive surveys to understand the sources and impacts of degradation in the stream, meadow and surrounding ecosystem. Their findings informed a comprehensive restoration plan, which was finalized in 2023. Although construction was initially slated to begin that same year, it was delayed due to funding gaps, staffing constraints and difficulties coordinating with contractors. This year, however, everything aligned, allowing the project to move forward.
The physical scope of the project involves removing culverts from the streambed and constructing a bridge across Prosser Creek capable of supporting grooming equipment in the winter. The design also includes an equestrian crossing and an elevated boardwalk measuring just over 500 feet across Euer Valley meadow. The project utilizes helical piers, a novel technique for building elevated walkways in wet zones, previously tested in the Nature Loop through the beaver ponds and used in South Lake Tahoe.
Other innovative components of the project include:
• Brush boxes, which are being installed at the outflows of culverts and low-
water crossings along South Euer Valley Road, help filter sediment and encourage riparian vegetation, including willows and alders.
• Root wads and log jams will be installed to protect streambanks.
• At the downstream terminus of the project site, there is currently a four-tofive-foot drop that risks causing stream incision to move upstream. To address this, the team is installing bolted step pools to stabilize the reach and improve aquatic habitat.
A critical component of the Euer Valley Restoration Project includes road improvements along South Euer Valley Road, which is used for accessing Fool’s Gold and Lower Hidden Gem. Rosenfeld explained that the hillside runoff crosses the road and flows down into the meadow, carrying sediment with it. The project will clean up these crossings to treat the runoff before it enters the meadow. This work will improve drainage, enhance the road’s surface and structure and manage the adjacent hillsides through brush treatment, tree limbing and thinning. The improvements also include creating designated areas for emergency vehicle turnarounds.
While the project took five years to implement due to the complexity of permitting, funding and logistical planning, construction and restoration have begun and will continue through the end of October. This includes all components of Phase One: the bridge, the boardwalk, road maintenance and stream restoration.
The coming months are critical. “It is a very tight construction season in our area,” Swain said. The initial focus will be on preparing South Euer Valley Road to allow
heavy equipment access to the project area. Subsequent tasks will include river restoration, bridge and boardwalk construction and implementation of the final drainage improvements along the roadway.
Phase Two is already underway. Restoration design, permitting and planning will be completed this year, followed by construction next year, depending on funding. Phase Two focuses on multiple sites located toward the east. Its primary emphasis will be on road and stream crossings and how those areas impact water quality and habitat.
As work continues on the ground, longterm funding and planning sustain this effort. Outside of grants and funding for existing components by the Repair and Replacement Fund, an Association Capital Fund is available for repairing, maintaining, restoring, replacing and enhancing Tahoe Donner’s existing assets, like trails and bridges. Like all homeowner associations, Tahoe Donner is required to maintain a 30-year reserve study that identifies infrastructure components that must be repaired or replaced over time. Projects such as the bridge and boardwalk were already included in this budgeting and funding plan.
This effort is a long-term investment in watershed health that will create a sustainable balance between ecological integrity and recreational use.
As construction gets underway, community access will temporarily shift, with long-term benefits in mind. Community members and visitors should expect temporary changes in access to parts of the Euer Valley, including popular trails like Fool’s Gold, Lower Mother Lode and Hidden Gem. Trail users can find updated information in Tahoe Donner News + Life, in emails from the association and online at tahoedonner.com/trails. The
website includes a new interactive trail map with the most up-to-date information on closures, reroutes and detours.
“These are all temporary closures,” Rosenfeld said, “but some will be in place all summer due to the scale of the work.” Certain areas may open intermittently depending on project timing and equipment use.
Safety is a top priority. With heavy equipment operating in the area, including machinery that may have limited visibility, it’s critical that all users follow posted signs and detours.
Though construction may temporarily disrupt access, these efforts are part of a much broader goal; one that protects not just the valley, but the region it feeds. The Euer Valley Restoration Project protects a vital headwater system that supports not only local wildlife but hundreds of thousands of downstream users.
“Protecting upstream headwaters,” Swain said, “also protects that infrastructure and helps maintain water supply later into the season.” The work being done in Euer Valley will help return the stream to a more natural flow, enrich the surrounding habitat and build long-term resilience into the landscape.
The vision is about the connection between people and place, and between recreation and stewardship. “Everything is a living being,” Rosenfeld said, “and if one thing is off, everything else starts to really be impacted.” With brook trout, frogs, snakes, hawks and eagles all calling the area home, the restoration ensures we’re not just passing through, but participating in something much bigger. As the work continues and the land begins to heal, “the habitat will just continue to get richer,” Rosenfeld said.
Sources:
• Interview with Michele, Eben, and Annie
• truckeeriverwc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Att.2-Euer-Valley-Stream-Condition-Inventory-2020.pdf
• tahoedonner.com/the-history-of-euer-valley
BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA
It’s a pioneer party at the Sixth Annual Wild West Fest, Tahoe Donner’s annual high-country hoe down at the Equestrian Center on Saturday, Aug. 30. Enjoy a taste of the Old West with cowboyinspired cuisine, ace-high activities for kids, exciting equestrian exhibitions and live music to keep you hootin’ and hollerin’ all evening long!
Dust off your boots and 10-gallon hat and mosey on over to experience a taste of Truckee’s robust equestrian culture, featuring performances on horseback, pony rides and other frontier-style fun. “Wild West Fest is one of our most popular community events, and we’re so excited to showcase TD’s talented equestrian community,” says Equestrian Center Manager Andrea Palmer. “You definitely don’t want to miss out on the excitement of seeing what some of our riders and horses can do!”
So saddle up for Tahoe Donner’s equine event of the summer! Visit tahoedonner.com/wildwestfest to purchase tickets and learn more.
Stomp your boots and do-si-do along to your favorite country, rockabilly and western swing classics and originals with Let the Horses Run.
Learn about various horse breeds and riding styles with the Tahoe Donner horses, then enjoy an equestrian performance in the arena.
Give the kids a fun and up-close animal experience with an emu and ostrich, goats, rabbits, mini cow, mini pony and more with the Udder Chaos Petting Zoo!
It may not be an authentic chuck wagon, but you’ll still be tipping your cowboy hats to the cook after this tasty, ranch-style dinner.
Aug. 30, 2025
BY WILL APOTHEKER
You may not expect to find a guy who grew up in Canada playing hockey dedicating his life to the sport of tennis, but you never know where the journey will lead you. For Ian Mindell, the Director of the Tahoe Donner Tennis + Pickleball Center, he wouldn’t have it any other way.
Ian has spent the last 18 summers running the Tahoe Donner tennis program, but his love affair with the sport began in 1989 when he moved to Palm Springs. “I had played some squash in Canada, but it seemed that wasn’t a thing in the desert, and of course, neither was hockey, so I started working at a tennis club,” says Ian, whose first job was as a court washer. As he got more familiar with the game, Ian began teaching kids, and that’s where his love of the game flourished.
In those days, Ian would also compete in tournaments around the Western United States. He had a “few decent wins here and there,” but usually ran into somebody much better than he was (his words, not mine). That part of the journey, he reflects, was always about learning the game to help fuel his coaching. “That was my mindset,” says Ian, “to learn all the ins and outs and observe different types of players.”
From there, Ian had the chance to work with his dad, who was taking over as tennis director at a facility in Palm Springs. His dad owns and manages it to this day. “I spent 10 years there and learned a lot,” says Ian. I started stringing rackets and learning all of the racket technologies before becoming a technician stringing rackets for tournaments. I got a chance to meet all the pros, Sampras, Aggasi, Edberg—you name it.”
Ian was having a blast but knew he wanted to get back to teaching, so he took a job at La Quinta Resort and Club, a position he continues to hold 25 years later. Summers in Tahoe, winters in Palm Springs, tennis all year round—it doesn’t get much better than that.
As you might imagine, Ian has met a lot of tennis folks over the years, and luckily,
he’s been able to bring many of them to work at Tahoe Donner. “It’s a pretty easy sell, ‘hey, do you want to get out of the desert for the summer and come to Tahoe?’” says Ian. “But we’ve also attracted a lot of local players and coaches who are really great. Kids from the high school team, even a few players who grew up taking lessons here at Tahoe Donner.”
Many of his staff come back year after year, and together, they have fostered an amazing teaching program at the Tennis + Pickleball Center and a dedicated and faithful tennis community.
When Ian first took over the Tennis + Pickleball Center, the junior program was fairly modest. Different age groups would each take the court for an hour and a half before making way for the next group. But Ian noticed this was a problem for parents with multiple kids interested in Tennis, who would have to make several trips throughout the day. It also posed a problem for kids who were craving more than just 90 minutes of tennis a week.
“We wanted to allow kids who really love the game to have up to a three-hour window every day, or 15 hours a week,” says Ian. “For these kids, we know they are here every day, and we can stack lessons and work on specific skills development. But we also didn’t want to exclude the kids who could only come for an hour, either.”
The new system works for everyone -kids who want to spend all week playing tennis and those who can only squeeze in an hour a day after their other summer commitments. The staff purposely rotates the skills taught during different sections and days, so kids can drop in and still learn different things each time.
First and foremost, the goal of every camp, clinic and lesson is to make it fun. But the lessons learned go way beyond the tennis court. “Like any sport, the kids are also building some important skills to take through the rest of life,” says Ian. “Mental focus, commitment and dedication. These skills will serve them well on and off the court.” They need look no further than Ian to see proof of that.
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Last year, Ian started offering Pickleball 101. It was so popular this year that he decided to offer a tennis version as well. These 90-minute clinics are offered every Saturday morning at 10:30AM and are designed for adults with little to no experience playing either sport.
“The idea is to get them comfortable out on the court and learn some skills in a nonthreatening environment,” says Ian. “Then, they can move onto the 102 course, and from there, if they are still hungry for more, we have the group or private lessons.”
The cost is also entry-point-friendly, at just $30 for members and $35 for guests. Signups are available through the Tennis + Pickleball Center’s online reservation system at courtreserve.com
Anyone who frequently visits the Tennis + Pickleball Center knows it’s much more than a bunch of courts. There’s a real community vibe that did not happen by accident. Over the years, Ian and his team have organized many creative and fun events that have fostered a tightknit community, including Breakfast at Wimbledon, Margarita Madness and Boot, Scoot and Boogie. Last year, they also launched the first Inner Game Wellness Expo, inspired by Timothy Gallwey's book The Inner Game of Tennis.
“There’s a lot more that goes into the game of tennis than just how good your forehand or backhand is,” says Ian. “There are so many facets that help develop an athlete, especially in a competitive sport like tennis or pickleball. There are mental elements and physical elements. This expo brings it all together, and of course, these are lessons that are valuable in every aspect of your life, not just in tennis.”
This year’s event takes place on Saturday, Aug. 9 beginning at 8AM, and has a little bit of everything, including:
• CoffeeBar – Eclectic eats and coffees
• Our Rustic Hearts Candle Company
• Silver Apothecary
• Tahoe Beverage Company –Artisan water
• Elevate IV Therapy – Hydration and performance recovery
• Marigold Blooms – Florist
• Brandee Mae Creations – Jewelry
• Mindfulness Meditation – 8AM
• Yoga in the Meadow – 9AM
Note: Vendors may vary on the day of the event.
For additional event information, visit tahoedonner.com/tennis-events
So, you’re ready to give Tennis a try? Congratulations! Tennis is a sport that you can play for the rest of your life. It’s not only good for you physically but also mentally. While it may seem easy enough to pick up any racket and ball and hit the court, there’s much more to know than that. Here’s a quick-reference guide to getting set up with tennis equipment to help you succeed in your beginner’s journey.
For adult beginners, experts recommend choosing a lightweight racket with a larger head size. Expert staff suggest starting with a fairly powerful racket to help you focus on learning the mechanics of the tennis swing without having to swing fast.
A good head size for beginners is anywhere from 107-115 square inches, with a length of 27-28 inches, and a lighter weight of under 11 ounces.
When it comes to grip size, the most important thing is that it feels comfortable in your hand. You should be able to wrap your fingers around the grip without your fingertips touching your palm.
If you’ve ever taken a look in the Tennis Pro Shop, you may have been surprised to see just how many different types of tennis balls there are. Larger balls are great for beginners because they are easier to track and less bouncy. You’ll also want to consider the altitude when playing at Tahoe Donner. Specialized high-altitude balls are designed with lower internal pressure to reduce bounce and speed. See the breakdown of ball types below:
Size: Approximately 8% larger than standard tennis balls
Best For: Very young beginners, ages 5-8
Purpose: These balls are slowed and bounce lower, giving beginners more time to react and develop their swing.
Size: Slightly larger than standard tennis balls
Best For: Younger players, ages 8-10, who have some experience with the game Purpose: These balls move faster and bounce higher than red balls, but still offer more control than standard balls.
Size: Similar in size to standard tennis balls but softer.
Best For: Ages 9-10 and older beginners, who are ready for a more challenging ball.
Purpose: Offers a good balance of speed and control for developing players.
Size: 6.54 - 6.86 cm in diameter.
Best For: Experienced players or beginners on a full-sized court. Purpose: These are the standard for competitive play, offering a predictable bounce and speed.
Size: Same as standard balls, but with lower internal pressure.
Best For: Playing at altitudes above 4,000 feet.
Purpose: Reduces the excessive bounce and speed caused by lower air pressure at higher altitudes.
Size: Standard size, but heavier and doesn’t rely on internal pressure for bounce. Best For: Practice, as they last longer and offer a consistent bounce. Purpose: The solid rubber core makes them more durable and offers consistent playability.
BY DR. MICHELLE SORAYA POURTABIB, M.D.
If you're experiencing hot flashes that wake you up at night, mood swings that catch you off guard or changes in your monthly cycle, you're not alone. Understanding what's happening to your body is the first step toward feeling like yourself again.
Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, typically beginning in your 40s but sometimes as early as your 30s. During this phase, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, causing irregular periods, cycle length changes and the onset of symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. This transition can last anywhere from a few months to several years.
Menopause is officially diagnosed after you've gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, typically occurring around age 51. At this point, your ovaries have essentially stopped producing estrogen and progesterone.
The diagnosis is usually made clinically based on your age, symptoms and menstrual history. Hormone testing is typically not indicated or needed for several important reasons: First, hormone levels fluctuate dramatically during perimenopause—sometimes daily—making single measurements unreliable. Second, there is no specific hormone level that defines menopause or determines treatment decisions. Third, symptom severity doesn't correlate with hormone levels, so testing won't predict how you'll respond to treatment. Most importantly, treatment decisions should be based on your symptoms and how they affect your quality of life, rather than on laboratory numbers. This symptom-focused approach maximizes treatment results by addressing what you’re experiencing rather than chasing arbitrary hormone targets.
Hot flashes and night sweats, known medically as vasomotor symptoms (VMS), are among the most common and disruptive experiences. These aren't just minor inconveniences—they can disrupt your sleep, affect your work performance and impact your relationships. You might also experience mood changes, sleep disturbances, changes in your intimate health and shifts in your energy levels.
When it comes to managing moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) remains the most effective treatment available. This approach doesn't just mask symptoms—it addresses the root cause by replacing the hormones your ovaries are producing less of.
MHT reduces the frequency of hot flashes by approximately 75% and is generally initiated for women younger than 60 years or within 10 years of menopause onset.[1] The treatment involves either estrogen alone (for women who have had a hysterectomy) or estrogen combined with a progestogen (for women who still have their uterus). The progestogen is essential for protecting the uterine lining from overgrowth, decreasing the risk of endometrial cancer that estrogen alone might cause. Progesterone is prescribed as an oral capsule. Oral estrogen reduces hot flashes but carries slightly higher risks of blood clots and stroke.[2] Transdermal estrogen (patches, gels) offers similar benefits with improved safety since it bypasses the liver.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) are antidepressants that work by increasing certain brain chemicals (serotonin and norepinephrine) that help regulate mood and temperature control. These agents reduce VMS by 40–65% and may also address comorbid mood or sleep disturbances.[3] Paroxetine is the only SSRI FDA-approved for VMS. Gabapentin, an anti-seizure medication, is particularly helpful for nighttime hot flashes, reducing symptoms by 40-65%.[4] Clonidine, a blood pressure medication, offers another option with 20-40% symptom reduction.[5]
Black cohosh is one of the most well-studied supplements for menopause, with clinical studies showing significant improvements in overall menopausal symptoms and hot flashes.[6]
Soy isoflavones have substantial clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness for menopausal symptoms. A 2019 review of 95 studies in menopausal women found that supplementing with soy isoflavones may favorably affect bone health and reduce the frequency and duration of hot flashes.[7]
Red clover isoflavones have also shown promise in clinical trials. Studies demonstrate that red clover isoflavone supplementation significantly decreased menopausal symptoms and had a positive effect on vaginal health. One study found that moderate doses of red clover-derived isoflavone aglycones combined with probiotics reduced hot flash frequency by 23% and hot flash intensity by nearly 40%.[8]
It's important to note that supplement quality varies widely, and you should discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider, especially if you're taking other medications.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and clinical hypnosis are effective for VMS and sleep disturbances.[9] These evidence-based approaches help you develop coping strategies, which can reduce symptom intensity and frequency, ultimately putting you in control of your symptom management.
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)—including vaginal dryness and urinary changes—affects many women. Vaginal estrogen is highly effective and safe for most women, working locally without significantly affecting whole-body hormone levels. Non-hormonal options include moisturizers, lubricants and selective estrogen receptor modulators like ospemifene.
Regular weight-bearing exercise reduces the frequency of hot flashes while improving bone density, mood and sleep quality. Dietary strategies should include adequate calcium, vitamin D, protein and B vitamins. A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats benefits metabolic health during menopause.
Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol are crucial, as both increase cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis risks that naturally rise after menopause.
1. North American Menopause Society. (2022). The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause, 29(7), 767-794.
2. Lugo T, Tetrokalashvili M. Hot Flashes. [Updated 2022 Dec 19]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539827
3. Handley AP, Williams M. The efficacy and tolerability of SSRI/SNRIs in the treatment of vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women: a systematic review. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract. 2015 Jan;27(1):54-61. doi: 10.1002/2327-6924.12137. Epub 2014 Jun 19. PMID: 24944075.
Successful perimenopause and menopause management requires individualized care. Consider your symptom severity, medical history and preferences when discussing options with your healthcare provider. Whether you choose hormone therapy, nonhormonal medications, lifestyle modifications or a combination approach, the goal is to help you feel your best.
Remember that perimenopause and menopause are natural biological transitions, not medical conditions requiring a cure. They can be navigated successfully with the proper support and treatment plan. With today's options, you have more choices than ever to create a personalized approach that works for your body and lifestyle.
If you are interested in exploring further, join a complimentary informational session on navigating the perimenopause and menopause journey with Dr. Soraya Pourtabib at the Trout Creek Rec Center on Sept. 4 from 5:30-6:30PM. See page 28 for more details.
Dr. Michelle Soraya Pourtabib, M.D., has been a Tahoe Donner member since 2022, and you’ll often find her at Trout Creek Rec Center, the Beach Club Marina or out enjoying the trails. She is a double board-certified physician in family and obesity medicine, an IFMcertified functional medicine practitioner and offers concierge medicine through her private practice serving children and adults in California and Nevada. More information is available at sorayamd.com
4. Butt, D. A., et al. (2008). Gabapentin for the treatment of menopausal hot flashes: a randomized controlled trial. Menopause, 15(2), 310-318.
5. Nagamani, M., et al. (1987). Treatment of menopausal hot flashes with transdermal administration of clonidine. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 156(3), 561-565.
6. Mahady, G. B., et al. (2018). Black cohosh for the treatment of menopausal hot flashes: A randomized controlled trial. Menopause, 25(9), 1014-1020.
7. Taku, K., et al. (2019). Extracted or synthesized soybean isoflavones reduce menopausal hot flash frequency and severity: systematic review and metaanalysis of randomized controlled trials. Menopause 26(6), 628-637.
8. Lipovac, M., et al. (2012). The effect of red clover isoflavone supplementation over vasomotor and menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women. Gynecological Endocrinology, 28(3), 203-207.
9. Green, S. M., et al. (2019). Cognitive behavioral therapy for menopausal symptoms (CBT-Meno): a randomized controlled trial. Menopause, 26(1), 60-67.
I recently came across a quote that said, “If you’re not barefoot, you’re overdressed.” That’s it right there, I mused, the vibe of summertime in Tahoe Donner perfectly summed up in a cleverly persuasive catchphrase imploring us all to simply relax. No need to overdo it. Upon reading, I was instantly transported to the lawn of the Northwoods Clubhouse, shoes discarded, toes in the grass, body swaying to the nostalgic beats of 80s hits and rock and roll classics. Whether it be the golden glow of Sierra sunsets and an ice-cold beer or evening temperatures still warm enough to don a tank top that subtly shows off my well-earned summer tan, something about Music by the Meadow on a Saturday night just—as Gen Z likes to say—hits different
If you haven’t yet experienced the summer live music series in Tahoe Donner, you are, dare I say, in peril of missing out on one of the most underrated community events of the season. I encourage you, nay, I order you to head straight to The Pavilion at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub on Monday and Friday evenings, and the Northwoods Clubhouse on Saturday evenings for a triple dose of good times and great live music—shoes optional; flip flops, highly recommended.
While it may not officially be a “thing,” might I propose for each family or group of friends in the remaining weeks of the season, the Tahoe Donner Summer Games, a leisure Olympics of sorts, incorporating all the recreational activities and offerings still available through the end of August.
Rack up individual points among your cohort on game nights for trivia questions answered, bingo cards filled, cornhole and bocce conquests, archery targets hit (archery at the Rec Hut), hidden landmarks discovered (geocaching at the Rec Hut), crawdads caught (Beach Club Marina) and more! Track miles traveled on the Tahoe Donner Trail System on foot, bike or horse, clock meters at the Rec Center pools or count buoys reached at the Beach Club Marina Host a pickleball or tennis tourney at the Tennis + Pickleball Center or a family golf invitational at the Golf Course.
Don’t miss these other special events with which to claim your victories:
• Tennis + Pickleball Center SeasonEnding Barbecue, Potluck and RoundRobin Play
Saturday, Aug. 23 | 2-5PM
Whatever you decide to include in your summer games, make it a memorable tradition by adding a little friendly competition!
Health and wellness enthusiasts will also want to attend “The Inner Game” Wellness Expo at the Tennis + Pickleball Center on Saturday, Aug. 9, beginning at 8AM. Featuring a host of wellness providers and vendors, yoga and meditation sessions and an MS Research Live-Ball Fundraiser in the afternoon, the event is a great way to rejuvenate and recharge mentally and physically.
• Cardboard Regatta at the Beach Club Marina
Saturday, Aug. 2 | 1PM
• Scavenger Hunt at the Beach Club Marina
Sunday, Aug. 3 | 12PM
• Wibit Floating Water Park at the Trout Creek Recreation Center
Wednesday, Aug. 6 | 5-7PM
• Tahoe Donner Poker Ride at the Equestrian Center
(For Equestrians Only)
Saturday, Aug. 9 | 9AM
See the monthly event calendar on page 18 or visit tahoedonner.com/events for additional information on these and other community activities.
As always, The Lodge Restaurant & Pub and its lunchtime patio accompaniment, The Pavilion, remain a popular jaunt for food and drink enthusiasts seeking an elevated experience. For light fare during the lunch hour, enjoy a fresh ahi poke bowl or a pressed caprese sandwich paired with a festive Aperol spritz. Then, stay for social hour from 3-5PM, featuring small, shareable plates and drink specials. And for dinner, settle in for something heartier like the grilled rib-eye with a glass of Buoncristiani O.P.C. Red Blend from Napa Valley.
For more casual dining and entertainment, stop into Pizza on the Hill in the evenings from 4-8PM. Grab a pizza and drinks to go while you post up at the bocce courts or on the lawn for bingo and trivia nights. Or grab a table in front of the big screen to catch a major league baseball game while sharing fresh pies, classic appetizers and cold beers on tap.
The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, The Pavilion and Pizza on the Hill are open daily. See page 17 for hours; for menus and more, visit the web at tahoedonner.com/dining
Beach Club Marina (530) 587-9460
tahoedonner.com/marina marina@tahoedonner.com
Open Daily
Through Sept. 1 | 7AM-9PM
Starting Sept. 2 | 8AM-7PM
Marina Grill
Open Daily | 11AM-6PM
Bikeworks (530) 582-9694
tahoedonner.com/bikeworks bikeworks@tahoedonner.com
Open Daily | 9AM-6PM
Campground (530) 587-9462
tahoedonner.com/campground campground@tahoedonner.com
Equestrian Center (530) 587-9470
tahoedonner.com/equestrian equestrian@tahoedonner.com
Camps
Open Monday-Friday
Through Aug. 15 | 9AM-3PM
Private Lessons
Open Saturday-Sunday
Through Oct. 12 | 9AM-3PM Pony Rides
Open Friday-Sunday
Through Sept. 8 | 9AM-12PM
Golf Course (530) 587-9443
tahoedonner.com/golf golf@tahoedonner.com Course
Open Daily | 7AM-7PM Driving Range
Open Daily | 6:30AM-8PM
Closed Sundays at 5:30PM to Mondays at 9AM for Maintenance Pro Shop
Open Daily | 8AM-5PM
Northwoods Pool (530) 587-9400
tahoedonner.com/recreation aquatics@tahoedonner.com
Open Daily
Through Aug. 8 | 11:30AM-5PM
Open Saturday-Sunday
Aug. 9-31 | 11:30-5PM
Open Monday, Sept. 1 | 11:30-5PM Recreation Hut (530) 587-9413
tahoedonner.com/recreation recreation@tahoedonner.com
Open Daily
Through Sept. 1 | 9AM-5PM
Tennis + Pickleball Center (530) 587-9474
tahoedonner.com/tennis tennis@tahoedonner.com
Open Daily
Through Aug. 10 | 7AM-8:30PM
Aug. 11-24 | 7AM-8PM
Aug. 25-Sept. 7 | 7:30AM-7:30PM
Sept. 8-28 | 8AM-7PM
Sept. 29-Oct. 12 | 8AM-6:30PM Oct. 13-Close | 8AM-6PM
Trails (530) 582-9672
tahoedonner.com/trails trails@tahoedonner.com
Please avoid construction zones and stay off wet or muddy trails
Trout Creek Rec Center (530) 587-9437 tahoedonner.com/aquatics tahoedonner.com/fitness troutcreek@tahoedonner.com
All pools will close Sept. 2 for renovations
Gym
Open Daily | 6AM-10PM
Lap Pool
Open Daily | 6AM-8:45PM
Rec Pool + Kiddie Pool
Open Daily | 10:30AM-7PM
Hot Tubs, Sauna + Steam Room
Open Daily | 6AM-9:45PM
Marco Polo Grill
Open Daily
Through Aug. 17 | 11AM-4:30PM
Open Saturday-Sunday
Aug. 23-31 | 11AM-4:30PM
Open Sept. 1 | 11AM-4:30PM
Alder Creek Cafe (530) 582-9686
tahoedonner.com/aldercreekcafe
Open Daily | 12-5PM
The Lodge Restaurant & Pub (530) 587-9455 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge lodge@tahoedonner.com
Pavilion
Breakfast Daily | 7-10AM
Lunch Daily | 10AM-5PM
Dinner
Open Daily | 5-9PM
Pizza on the Hill (530) 587-9669 tahoedonner.com/pizza pizza@tahoedonner.com
Open Daily | 4-8PM
Ask about our First Responders Discount!
Member Services (530) 587-9400
tahoedonner.com/welcome info@tahoedonner.com
Open Daily | 8AM-5PM
All amenities are weather and conditions permitting. Check the website or call for most upto-date information.
Serving the Tahoe-Truckee area since 1979, carrying high-quality hardwood flooring and carpet ideal for your mountain home. Visit us and explore our amazing selection at the Pioneer Commerce Center in Truckee.
530 582.7428
10800 Pioneer Trail, Unit 3, Truckee 96161
office@bassettflooring.com CA LIC #345494
2
Women’s Holistic Horsemanship Workshop at Equestrian Center tahoedonner.com/womens-holistichorsemanship-workshop-2
Cardboard Regatta at Beach Club Marina tahoedonner.com/cardboard-regatta
3
Scavenger Hunt at Beach Club Marina tahoedonner.com/scavenger-hunt
5
Eastern Regional Firewise Coalition Meeting at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/events
6
Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse See page 22
Wibit Wednesday at Trout Creek Rec Pool tahoedonner.com/events
7
Trail Stewardship Day –Teewinot Trail Realignment tahoedonner.com/events
9
Equestrian Poker Ride at Equestrian Center tahoedonner.com/events
“The Inner Game” Wellness Expo at Tennis + Pickleball Center tahoedonner.com/events
MS Research Fundraiser –Team Tahoe Time at Tennis + Pickleball Center tahoedonner.com/events
16
Member Happy Hour + Live Music at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/events
20
Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse
See page 22
23
End of Season Bash at Tennis + Pickleball Center tahoedonner.com/events
29
Tahoe Donner Woodyard Firewood Purchase Day Through Aug. 30 tahoedonner.com/events
30 Wild West Fest at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/wildwestfest
Fridays 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Grooves by the Greens at The Lodge Pavilion tahoedonner.com/grooves
Saturdays 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Yoga on the Meadow at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/yoga
Music by the Meadow at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/ music-by-the-meadow
Sundays
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
SUP Yoga at Beach Club Marina tahoedonner.com/sup-yoga
Family-Friendly Free Movie Night at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/ family-movie-night
Mondays
4, 11, 18, 25
Edi-Bōl Dinner Series and Live Music at The Lodge Pavilion tahoedonner.com/edi-bol-dinner
Bingo Night at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/bingo
Tuesdays
5, 12, 19, 26
American Mah Jongg Club at Tennis + Pickleball Center See page 20
Wednesdays 6, 13, 20, 27
Cornhole Tournaments at Northwoods Clubhouse Last event on Aug. 20 (not held Aug. 27) tahoedonner.com/cornhole
Thursdays 7, 14, 21, 28
Shuttle to Truckee Thursdays at Trout Creek Rec Center Last event on Aug. 14 (not held Aug. 21 or 27) truckeethursdays.com
Trivia Night at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/trivia-night
With miles of paved bike paths and lanes connecting Truckee homes, businesses, and parks, make your outings and errands more fun – ride your bike! Or take advantage of free Truckee Transit, including door-to-door service with TART Connect.
AS OF JANUARY 31, 2025, TRANSFERABLE GUEST CARDS ARE NO LONGER
Personal guests who are accompanied by members with active Member ID Cards do not need to be pre-registered.
Pre-register your personal guests on ShopTD and provide them quick and easy access to private amenities and discounted pricing at select public amenities.
Daily Access Fees apply at private amenities for all Member ID Cards not covered by the Recreation Fee and for all personal guests.
Attention Members: Please dispose of existing transferable guest cards and pre-register your personal guests or accompany them to amenities on their next visit. Cards presented at private amenities will be collected by staff. STR tenants are not considered personal guests and must use short-term tenant cards for private amenity access (Daily Access Fees apply).
LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/AMENITY-ACCESS
Twenty-two members from the TD4WD Club and 11 vehicles made the trek up to Tillamook, Oregon, for the Tillamook Jeep Jamboree. It was a blast and covered two Jeep Badge of Honor Trails (Cedar Tree and Fire Break Five), as well as sand dunes and beach runs. Trails ranged from difficult rock crawling to easy scenic runs. Driving in deep sand dunes requires much different driving techniques than the rocky trails we usually run in our area. The key was deflating tires down to 10 psi, staying in four-wheel high, maintaining momentum and shutting off the vehicle’s electronic stability control system to prevent automatic brake application as individual tires spin.
Tillamook is famous for its cheese, and it didn’t disappoint. The Tillamook Cheese Factory has an observation deck for selfguided tours of the cheese-making and packaging processes, ice cream counters, a food court and a store. The cheese curds are delicious! See TD4Wheelers.org for additional club information and come join us!
You might have seen the Tahoe Donner Women's 9-Holers Golf Club bulletin board just outside the Pro Shop and wondered about our birdie tree. Any member who gets a birdie during the season is recognized with a bird in the tree. As of this writing, we have seven birds in our tree, including an eagle! Marcy Thompson
had a hole-in-one on hole #4! Congrats, Marcy, and all our birdies: Cathy Pellegrini, Shelly Valerio, Carolyn Rose with two and Karen Heitzman, also with two!
The season isn't over yet; there's still time to get your bird in the tree. Weather permitting, we hope to play until midOctober, when the golf course closes. Check out our website for all remaining events of the 2025 season. And if you would like to join the fun next year, add your name to be notified when we open our 2026 membership sign-ups. Look for the 2026 sign-up link on our website at td9holers.com
American Mah Jongg Club
Mah Jongg is a dynamic game that has evolved over the years. Since its start in Asia, the game of American Mah Jongg has grown and developed. Did you know that even with the standardization, there are regional differences, or more commonly called “table rules?” For example, some groups:
• Will not accept a roll of 5 or less to split the wall
• Place a Joker face up in the wall so that one player will get it on the initial deal
• Allow closed hands (C) to be played as if they are Exposed (X)
• Include blanks which can be used to replace any tile from the discard pool at any time
• Winners get paid for winning based on the complexity of the hand
• Always skip the second round of Charleston because the same tiles get passed on
Have you seen any other regional differences?
If you are playing with a new group, be sure to ask about the “table rules” so the playing field is level for all! Our club meets every Tuesday at the Tennis Center lounge from 1-4PM. We play American Mah Jongg using the current year’s National Mah Jongg League card and rules. No RSVP needed! For more information about Mah Jongg Club, contact Dori Schick at doridans@hotmail.com
Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center welcomes Sundae to the Tahoe Donner
herd. She is a Haflinger pony and is 12 years old. She has a sweet disposition, and camp kids are already in love with her!
Our last meeting was incredibly informative with Kevin Marini, a Master Gardener and UC Agriculture/Natural Resources staff member. We discussed soil health and pruning techniques, and look forward to inviting him back!
We were also pleased to elect Rita Schueling as our Vice President, rounding out our executive committee. Somer Loen will serve as our Communications Officer, and Bryan Rozmarynowski will be our Treasurer.
We also started the first of our garden tours – it's always inspirational and informative to see what others are doing in their gardens. Interested?! Visit tdgardeningclub.com to sign up and learn more. Meetings are typically the last Sunday of the month at 4PM.
We have a new club in town! On June 27, the TD board of directors approved the formation of the Men’s 9-Hole Golf Club. Our goal is to have fun playing golf in a relaxed and friendly environment. All are welcome. No handicap index? No problem. Beginners, casual players and those returning to the game after a long layoff can come out and enjoy a round with welcoming people. Seasoned players who might not have time for 18 holes will fit right in.
There are no dues for this initial season. Once we have established our membership, we will schedule our first play date and meet to discuss other events for this year and plans for next year. We will also be working with our TD Golf instructors to schedule clinics.
The course is in beautiful condition. We will have a 9-hole rate and, of course, a social event or two. Interested in signing up? Contact Michael Eyton-Lloyd at hmsmike1@aol.com. For additional information, contact Raymond Cadei at raytoni110@gmail.com
The 2025 golf season is well underway, and we are enjoying, without exaggeration, the best course conditions in the history of Tahoe Donner golf. Our esteemed
Superintendent, Ram Sena, continuously has his crew working on the course: Pictured here is one of the maintenance team verticutting the greens, which will be followed by a complete rolling. While the greens are already silky smooth and fast, Ram and his team plan to have them as slick as a freshly Zambonied hockey rink, providing the ultimate challenge for our Club Championship Aug. 16-17.
This year’s Club Championship is open to all TD Golf Club members. Compete to be the Club Champion by putting up your gross scores playing from the tips, or compete to be one of the Flight Champions by putting up your net scores playing from the Silver or the Combo tees (seniors).
For more information about the TD Men’s Golf Club and any membership inquiries, visit tdgolfclub.com or contact Membership Chair Dave Janiszewski at janiszewski.tdgolf@gmail.com
Well, I stand corrected! I initially credited Ellen Debelak for the lovely purple quilt in last month’s Tahoe Donner News + Life Buzz Clubs, and she informed me that it was not hers. So, I obviously didn’t point my camera in the right direction. Anyone would be proud to have made this beautiful quilt top – including me – but now I would like to know who actually made it! My apologies for the mistake. I love summer. And in late afternoon, there is a lovely shady spot on my back deck where I can sit and either read or hand-sew while enjoying my flowers and the hummingbirds flying around. It is
such a peaceful moment. Sometimes I just sit and think about how lucky I am to live here. I meet friends on the lake, on a walk in the neighborhood or on trails, or sometimes at the market. That’s what makes me feel part of this community. Now it’s time to go back there and think of my next quilt project.
If you want to know what we do, you can contact me at odette.turmel@gmail.com. Our group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 3-5PM. In August, we will meet at the Alder Creed Adventure Center. Have a wonderful endof-summer!
Do you have a single rowing shell or single out-rigger that would like to call Donner Lake “home?” Tahoe Donner Rowing Club has an immediate opening for a seasonal rack space at the Marina. Please contact Valerie Brinker at vbrinker@dicksonrealty.com for more info.
Golf season is in full swing, and we’re all enjoying fun play days and a great mix of games. The weather has been fantastic, and the course is in excellent condition.
The Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club held its summer social and general meeting on June 24. Members gathered over a light lunch and a glass of wine. During the event, we celebrated the 2024 season with awards for Most Improved and Eclectic winners.
The President’s Cup tournament began on June 17 with match play as the game of the day. Our two-day invitational was a big hit! Festivities kicked off Monday evening with a thrilling horse race, where two-person teams faced off in a sudden elimination format until one emerged
victorious. Tuesday featured a scramble, followed by a shamble on Wednesday. To top it all off, participants showed their spirit by dressing in their favorite sports-themed outfits to match our “Sportmania” theme!
The fun continues through August, with a variety of games and matches leading up to our Club Championship, a two-day tournament happening August 19-20. Golf will carry on through mid-October, so there's still plenty of time to get out on the course and enjoy the season. If you'd like to learn more about the Tahoe Donner Women's Golf Club, visit us at tdwomengolf.org
Tim West | club@td4wheelers.org
9-Holers Women’s Golf
Debi Lorraine | debi.lorraine@gmail.com
American Mah Jongg
Dori Schick | doridans@hotmail.com
Equestrian
Susan Terrell | terrellsf@earthlink.net
Gardening
Kate Fanter | tdgardeningclub@gmail.com
Hiking
Robin Reese | rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net
Junior Golf
Molly Springmann | mspringmann@tahoedonner.com
Limited Abilities Persons’ Golf
Mike Srago | msrago@comcast.net
Men’s 9-Hole Golf
Raymond Cadei | raytoni110@gmail.com
Men’s Golf
Michael O'Connell | tdmensgolf@gmail.com
Mountain Bike
Dustin Young | dustinyoung75@gmail.com
Quilt
Odette Turmel | odette.turmel@gmail.com
Rowing
Val Brinker | vbrinker@dicksonrealty.com
Running
Scott Bauhs | info@tdrunclub.com
Senior Alpine Ski
Stephen O’Brien | stephob@comcast.net
Women’s Golf
Mary Liz Wardlaw | tdwgclub@gmail.com
We want to support you! Learn more and apply at tahoedonner.com/clubs
Receive a Gift Certificate
DEADLINE: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
OPEN TO: Tahoe Donner Members
CATEGORIES: Scenic, People, Animals/Wildlife
SUBMIT: Email high-resolution digital files to comdep@tahoedonner.com. See details, rules and requirements at tahoedonner.com/photo-contest
Thank you to everyone who helped fund Tahoe Donner Giving Fund scholarships. Your donations have made it possible for the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee to award lifechanging scholarships to outstanding local students each year since 2015.
In 2025, Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Scholarships totaled $300,000, including $240,000 in IMPACT Scholarship awards and $60,000 in Traditional Scholarship awards
IMPACT Scholarship awards are up to $60,000 each, spread over as many as five years, thanks to one very generous anonymous Tahoe Donner member who funds all of them.
Traditional Scholarship awards are between $5,000 and $7,000 one-time awards, with most recipients receiving an additional amount in year two. These scholarships are funded by Tahoe Donner member donations in response to fundraising campaigns and other appeals.
Thank you to all Tahoe Donner Giving Fund donors. Let’s meet your 2025 scholarship recipients!
Alexa IMPACT Scholar
Tufts University
Visual Arts and Graphic Design
Anthony IMPACT Scholar
University of California, Riverside Political Science
Lupita Traditional Scholar
Lake Tahoe
Community College
Radiologic Technology
Gonzalo IMPACT Scholar
San José State University
Nursing
Martin Traditional Scholar
California State University, Northridge Music Therapy
Ariana Traditional Scholar
Truckee Meadows
Community College
Medical Assistant Program
Samantha Traditional Scholar
California State University, Monterey Bay Marine Biology
Andres
IMPACT Scholar
Santa Clara University
Mechanical Engineering
Camila Traditional Scholar
Santa Clara University
Political Science and Economics
Desiree Traditional Scholar
Ithaca College
Sound Recording and Technology
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is administered as an affiliate fund of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 680416404. All contributions are voluntary, irrevocable, and are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Tahoe Donner Giving Fund grants and scholarships are made through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation’s annual review process.
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee is chartered by the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors to carry out the mission of the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund: to inspire generosity and charitable giving among Tahoe Donner members in order to support deserving programs and youth in the greater Truckee community.
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee thanks our founding partner, Elements Mountain Company, who has supported the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund since its inception in 2014, and the anonymous Tahoe Donner member who has generously funded the IMPACT Scholarships each year since 2019.
BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA
Following the completion of the expanded parking lot and the installation of picnic tables and vault restrooms at the Glacier Way Trailhead, this balcony trail offers day adventurers a path less traveled while providing easy trail access and convenient facilities. Throughout the summer and winter months, parking at the Alder Creek Adventure Center can be limited, and the trails from this primary trailhead in the summer and the Cross Country Ski Center in winter are much busier.
Come experience Glacier Way’s approximately 4-mile, out-and-back trail any time of year (snowshoes may be required) for major rewards with minimal payout. With a moderate elevation gain of about 500 feet and bird’s eye views of Johnson Canyon, Donner Lake, the Pacific Crest, Carson Range and Martis Valley beginning at about one mile in, Glacier Way Trail is ideal for recreational hikers and snowshoers seeking an awe-inspiring exploration of the Sierra wilderness without venturing too far from “civilization.”
The Glacier Way Trailhead Parking Expansion Project was identified in the 2013 Trails Master Plan and included in the Tahoe Donner 5-Year Trails Implementation Plan entitled (CEQA) with Nevada County and the Town of Truckee in 2016. It was also a key component in the approved 2022 Trails and Open Space Master Plan.
While less frequented than the trails at the Alder Creek Adventure Center, the undersized lot at the Glacier Way Trailhead
nevertheless caused overflow issues that impacted the surrounding neighborhood streets. The association recognized an opportunity to alleviate the problem while providing other improvements that would enhance the trail user experience. These included an increase in parking spaces –including two year-round ADA stalls and two summer ADA stalls – permanent ADA-accessible restroom facilities, picnic tables, bear-proof trash receptacles and a maintenance storage facility.
Construction commenced in August 2024 with tree removal and the closure of the parking lot. Grading and paving were completed, and the lot reopened in September of the same year. Work to install the vault restroom began in Spring 2025, and the project was completed in July. The association is also working to add a onemile stroller/wheelchair-friendly trail, with exact timing to be determined. Additional project details can be found online at tahoedonner.com/glacier-way-trailhead
With ample parking, picnic tables and restrooms now available, there’s no need to rush off once your jaunt is through. Put out a spread post-hike while you share favorite moments with your group or simply enjoy the solitude if you travel solo. The opportunities to create a unique adventure from this convenient trailhead are endless.
For an interactive or downloadable map of the Tahoe Donner trail system and additional information on exploring safely, visit tahoedonner.com/trails
Downhill Ski Resort employee Jeremiah Ferguson recently received the Paul Beran Lift Maintenance Person of the Year Award presented by Ski California. Named after a team member from Sierra-at-Tahoe who passed too soon, the award is presented to a ski resort employee who has made a significant contribution to their lift maintenance department and/or the lift maintenance industry as a whole. On behalf of Tahoe Donner, we salute you and your dedication to lift maintenance and safety at Downhill Ski Resort!
While the ban is in effect (typically through November), outdoor wood or charcoalburning fire pits, chimineas, smokers and barbecue devices are NOT ALLOWED until further notice. Outdoor natural gas, propane and pellet fire pits and barbecue devices are still allowed. Visit the Emergency Preparedness Hub for more information at tahoedonner.com/preparedness
TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER
Join a Complimentary Class on Navigating Perimenopause +
Menopause at Trout Creek Rec Center
Join a complimentary, one-hour informational session on navigating perimenopause and menopause with Dr. Michelle Soraya
Pourtabib, M.D., on Thursday, Sept. 4 at 5:30PM at Trout Creek Rec Center. This class is designed for Tahoe Donner members seeking guidance, clarity and support through the perimenopausal and menopausal transition. Dr. Pourtabib will cover common symptoms, treatment options including hormone therapy and non-hormonal medications, and foundational approaches to wellness through nutrition and lifestyle. Whether you're just starting to notice changes or are deep into the process, this session offers evidence-based information in a supportive, open environment. There will also be time for Q+A, so come with your questions.
Space is limited. Register today by emailing troutcreek@tahoedonner.com. Members and their accompanying guests only.
The following committees are currently seeking to fill the following vacancies: Elections Committee: This committee ensures the fair and efficient administration of the elections process at Tahoe Donner. Vacancies – 2
Covenants Committee: This committee oversees the administration and enforcement of the Governing Documents and Association Rules as they apply to property owners regarding care and maintenance for properties and the behavior of property owners, their guests and tenants. Vacancies – 2 alternates
Year-end applications for committee roles are due by Oct. 31 of each year. Please contact executiveassistant@tahoedonner.com for more information. To learn more about all of Tahoe Donner’s active committees, visit tahoedonner.com/active-committees.
Friday, Aug. 22 - Saturday, Aug. 23 at McIver Arena
Keeping Truckee’s Western heritage alive, this beloved summer tradition features two days
of classic rodeo action, including bull riding, barrel racing and mutton bustin’! Friday is Family Night, and Saturday concludes with a lively Dirt Dance featuring live music by Everyday Outlaw. Enjoy local food vendors, shopping and multiple bars operated by the Truckee Donner Horsemen Crew. Choose between grandstand seating or bring a blanket for grass seating under the trees. Please note: No outside food, drinks (except water), or pets allowed.
Friday, Aug. 22:
Gates open at 4:30PM | Rodeo at 5:30PM
Saturday, Aug. 23:
Gates open at 2:30PM | Rodeo at 4PM
Dirt Dance to follow
Don’t
Thursdays, Aug. 7 + 14
Truckee Thursdays are feel-good street events that beckon the community to enjoy some exuberant downtown summertime energy. Offering a stage with live music, a food court with an eclectic selection of eats, children's activities, a beer garden and a wide variety of artisan vendors, it’s no wonder these lively weekly events are on both locals’ and visitors’ must-do lists.
In addition, attendees will find sidewalk sales and other activities hosted by downtown merchants, with the opportunity to reacquaint themselves with all Historic Downtown Truckee has to offer year-round!
With live music by Sierra Roc on Aug. 7 and BURKE. on Aug. 14, come by for the final two Truckee Thursdays of the season from 5-8:30PM.
Tahoe Donner will offer complimentary looping shuttle service from Trout Creek Recreation Center to Downtown Truckee, with service available approximately every 15 minutes from 4:30-9PM.
Tahoe Donner Shuttles: These shuttles are on a first-come, first-served basis. No standing or pets allowed. Large items like strollers are discouraged on the shuttle, and seat belts are required.
June 23, 2025
The board of directors and Finance Committee reviewed and discussed the proposed Tahoe Donner Capital and Financial policies to be adopted at the June 27, 2025, regular board meeting.
June 27, 2025
Capital and Financial Policies Update Initiative
The board reviewed proposed revisions to the Capital and Financial Polices and adopted Resolution 2025-4, Capital and Financial Policies Update. Motion passed 5-0.
Trails Implementation Plan
The board received a presentation of and accepted the 2025 Trails Implementation Plan as presented in Exhibit A. Motion passed 5-0.
2025 Communications Preferences Survey Results + Biennial Member Survey Preview
Staff delivered a report summarizing the results of the 2025 Communications Preferences Survey and previewed the forthcoming biennial Member Survey. The board received these items as information.
Capital Projects Update and Check-In
Staff updated the board on the status of 2025 capital projects:
• Downhill Ski Lodge
• Euer Valley Phase One
• Maintenance Yard Fueling Station Replacement
• ACAC North Parking Lot and Pumphouse Access Road Improvements
• Pickleball Court Enhancements
• Trout Creek Pool Room and Deck Improvement Projects
President’s Annual State of Tahoe
Donner Message
Benjamin Levine, President
Treasurer’s Report
Don Koenes, Treasurer
Keynote Speakers
• Michele Prestowitz, Executive Director of the Truckee River Watershed Council
• Toni Moore, Chair of the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee, and a 2023 Truckee High School graduate and scholarship recipient
General Manager Annual Update
Annie Rosenfeld, General Manager
Introduction of 2025/26 Board of Directors
Annie Rosenfeld, General Manager, introduced Jay Wertheim as a new member of the board and thanked Jim Roth for his tenure and service.
June 29, 2025
Establish an Additional Subordinate Corporate Officer
The board adopted the 2025-14 Administrative Resolution, establishing a Vice Treasurer position as an optional additional subordinate corporate officer. Motion passed 5-0.
The board adopted 2025-15 Administrative Resolution, approving the slate of officers below. Motion passed 5-0:
• President: Benjamin Levine
• Vice President: Denise Gauny
• Treasurer: Don Koenes
• Secretary: Courtney Murrell
• Director: Jay Wertheim
• Vice Treasurer: Unfilled
The board appointed liaisons to the following committees. Motion passed 5-0:
• Architectural Standards Committee: Courtney Murrell
• Covenants Committee: Denise Gauny
• Finance Committee: Don Koenes
• Long Range Planning Committee: Benjamin Levine
• Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee: Jay Wertheim
• Trails and Open Space Committee: Denise Gauny
The board approved the 2025/26 regular board meeting schedule as presented, with the direction for staff to review the budget workshop dates and return the schedule to next month’s consent agenda if any changes are needed. Motion passed 5-0.
The board requested that staff return with a proposed schedule of dates for subcommittee assignments. In the meantime, Director Wertheim will serve as the designee for the July and August 2025 dates.
The board discussed scheduling a training session focused on best practices, guidance and expectations related to appeal hearings.
Go to tahoedonner.com/boardmeetingdocs to see presentations and video recordings of past meetings. To provide feedback to help improve the overall association, please submit your comments and concerns at tahoedonner.com/feedback
Aug.
+ Budget Session #1:
Fund
Sept. 26, 2025 – Regular Board
+ Budget Session #2: Capital +
Funds
October 10, 2025 – Special Budget Meeting Session #3: Approval
October 17, 2025 – Special Budget Meeting Session #4, if necessary
Friday, Oct. 24, 2025 –Regular Board Meeting Board meeting dates subject to change. Visit tahoedonner.com for dates.
Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025 –Trails + Open Space
Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025 – Giving Fund
Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025 –Long-Range Planning
Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025 – Finance
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025 –Architectural Standards
Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025 – Covenants
Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025 –Trails + Open Space
To get meeting details, including Zoom meeting registration information and time, please send an email to executiveassistant@tahoedonner.com
Architectural Standards | Rod Whitten cso@tahoedonner.com
Covenants | Jim McNamara compliance@tahoedonner.com
Elections | Steve Meyers electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com
Finance | Joe Niedringhaus financecommittee@tahoedonner.com
Giving Fund | Toni Moore tdgf@tahoedonner.com
Long-Range Planning | Jerry Meek lrpc@tahoedonner.com
Trails + Open Space | Peter Sawyer tos@tahoedonner.com
The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed the following plan in June 2025.
UNIT/LOT ADDRESS SQ. FT. PROJECT 02/002 11322 3,884 4 Condos Northwoods Garage Boulevard
11/484 13430 2,703 House/ Cristallina Garage Way
11/496 13718 1,850 House/ Edelweiss Garage Place
01/004 16243 1,660 House/ Northwoods Garage Boulevard
The Covenants Committee did not hold any violation hearings in June 2025.
Go to tahoedonner.com/covenants to view covenants rules and how to make a covenants complaint.
Tahoe Donner is pleased to welcome Jay P. Wertheim to the board of directors. Jay is beginning his first three-year term as a board member and is excited to serve his community in this new capacity. Read on to learn more about Jay, what he loves about his community and what he’s excited about for the future of the association.
CC: As a formal introduction to the community, could you give members a brief summary of your personal history in Tahoe Donner, as well as your professional background?
JPW: Our family has been homeowners in Tahoe Donner for over 12 years. My wife, Jeanette, and I split our time between Tahoe Donner and Newport Beach, California. Our adult children, who now live in New York City, use our TD home several times a year, accompanied by friends. My professional life is primarily as an international business lawyer, both in private practice and at a global medical devices company, along with leadership roles in charitable and educational organizations, and as a host for several international students.
CC: What drew you to the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors?
JPW: The opportunity to become more involved in the organization attracted me to the position and made me want to have an impact on the direction and evolution of Tahoe Donner. Also, I believe I can help simplify TD’s governance practices and procedures.
CC: What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Tahoe Donner community? Do you have favorite amenities or events?
JPW: I love the ability to enjoy mountain beauty all around: active people, a great environment for family events and friendly fellow members and people in Truckee (which I also consider part of our community). Among my favorite activities and amenities are hiking and mountain biking on the TD Trail System and spending time at the Beach Club Marina. I generally love being outdoors in the mountains and the wonderful seasonal changes.
CC: As the newest board member, what are you most excited about for the association?
JPW: I am excited to participate in governance as the association continues to enhance the member experience, build new facilities and improve program offerings as we carefully steward the natural surroundings.
CC: What impacts do you hope to make, or what are your goals while serving on the board?
JPW: After observing Tahoe Donner’s board and committee meetings over several years, I see opportunities to enhance our governance, management and overall member experience by expanding member communication, strengthening board responsiveness and boosting member pride
Steve and Leslie Meyers took a bike trip in Spain and cycled from Granada to Seville. Highlights included stops in Cordoba and beautiful Andalusian villages on the way.
Dave and Sonya Huggins visited Pembroke Castle, the tower where Henry Vll was born in 1457. They also explored the limestone cave which was home to Pembroke’s first humans over 40,000 years ago.
This group of 23 Truckee friends (including 14 from Tahoe Donner) enjoyed a “Bike & Barge” cruise together on the Saar and Moselle Rivers in Germany, Luxembourg and France. The luxury barge is the Merlijn, and our group booked the whole ship!
Tahoe Donner Members: Terry and Coral Cavanagh, Alastair and Susan Westgarth, Bob and Marina Phillips, Arthur Beauchamp and Claudette Landry, Roger Chapman, Shellie Poplin, John and Marion Thatch, Joe and Laura Mello.
Also accompanying our group were Truckee friends Al Muth, Violet Nakayama, Barb Wilkinson, Teri Boelk, Chris Zerlaut, Brad Johnson, Christa Lindee and Mike and Gina Updegraff (last two not pictured), plus the ship’s Captain, Coen Van der Miles.
As a bonus, Coral and Susan are holding a copy of the July 2023 Tahoe Donner News, on which they were on the cover!
Rosemary Springer and G. Lee “Chip”Burns in front of Ballyfin Demesne in Ireland. Chip and Rosemary returned to Ireland to celebrate their 25th anniversary, after spending their honeymoon there in 1999. Ballyfin was one of eight stops, a mix of new adventures and familiar places.
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS
Email your “Where in the World” photos to comdep@tahoedonner.com
Please submit only JPG files of 300 dpi for printing. Photos must include a copy of Tahoe Donner News + Life. Please list the names of everyone in the picture, where it was taken and a short description. Note: Please be patient; it could take several months to see your photo published.
