Tahoe Donner News September 2025

Tahoe Donner NEWS + LIFE

“Fall” Together Now! Join In the Fun at the 14th Annual Fall Festival

La Fuerza Latina Agency

Expanding Impact While Staying True to Their Mission

45-Day Notices Proposed Architectural Standards Rule Change + Proposed Architectural Standards ADU/JADU Rule Change

The Buzz Local Activities, Dining + Updates

SEPTEMBER 2025

Contents

Welcome 2 Letter from the General Manager

The Buzz 14 Small But Mighty: Tahoe Donner Ski Team 2024/25 Season Highlights 16 Activities, Dining, Programs + Events 18 Clubs Updates 32 Where in the World is Tahoe Donner News + Life

The Report 20 Tahoe Donner Giving Fund: Supporting Sierra Senior Services, Keeping Our Seniors Safe

10 “Fall”

Together Now! The 14th Annual Fall Festival Returns Saturday, Oct. 11

22 45-Day Notice: Proposed Architectural Standards Rule Change 24 45-Day Notice: Proposed Architectural Standards ADU/JADU Rule Change 26 2026 Fire Safety Property Inspection Notice

Jessica Svoboda (Main); Kelli Price (Inset); Victor Villodre (Cover)

28 Briefs 30 Board Meeting Recaps

06 La Fuerza

Latina Agency From Nonprofit Roots to LLC Growth, These Two Latinx Women are Expanding Impact While Staying True to Their Mission

12 PGA Jr. League Season Recap

The Tahoe Donner Golf Course Hosted Another Successful PGA Jr. League Golf Season With One of the Largest Groups So Far.

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

1

VOLUME 26 | NO. 09

September 2025

General Manager’s Welcome

EDITORIAL + PRODUCTION TEAM Lindsay Hogan Carlynne Fajkos Jesus Antonio Vazquez

Drew Deurlington Cynthia Cendreda Will Apotheker

SENIOR MANAGEMENT Annie Rosenfeld | General Manager arosenfeld@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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 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.

2

E

njoying the Seasons + Staying Engaged

As September approaches, I find myself amazed by how fast the season flew by. For my family, summer included travel lacrosse, hikes along the eastern Sierra and taking full advantage of Truckee’s cooler temperatures while biking, hiking and relaxing by the lakes. That said, fall is my favorite season here. I hope you, too, get the opportunity to enjoy golden afternoons at the marina deck, changing leaves along our trails, late-season golf or whatever activities you enjoy most.

Member Satisfaction Survey Launch + Budget Development Process The biennial Member Satisfaction Survey – launching later this month – is an essential tool used to understand trends, gauge member sentiment and measure the impact of recent initiatives. Your feedback helps guide management and the board to shape future strategic initiatives.

Meanwhile, the budget development process began in June, when the board provided strategic direction to staff on budget drivers. The Finance Committee has been working closely with management to review and refine the draft budget, with input from other committees like LongRange Planning and Trails and Open Space where applicable.

This year’s budget focuses on several key strategic drivers: • Member Value and Benefits: Continuing to provide high-quality services and maintain amenities, while following the Amenity Access Rule Implementation Plan to include four Member ID Photo cards as part of the annual assessment.

• Revenue Stabilization and Growth: The Downhill Ski Lodge is on schedule for its opening on Dec. 19, helping restore key revenue streams that offset other association expenses. Modest revenue growth across the organization is also anticipated in the coming year.

• Employer Reputation and Competitiveness: Funding to ensure compensation, benefits and workforce housing strategies, particularly for seasonal staff, to support Tahoe Donner’s standing in today’s competitive resort-town labor market.

• Capital and Financial Policies Implementation: The board adopted updated Capital and Financial Policies in June. These updated policies, which are intended to keep Tahoe Donner financially strong and help achieve long-term capital reserve funding are now being integrated into this year’s budgeting process.

Understanding the Annual Assessment Your Annual Assessment helps keep Tahoe Donner running smoothly. Here’s a simple breakdown of the funds it supports: • Operating Fund: Covers daily expenses like utilities, staffing, insurance and cleaning.

• Reserve Study Fund: This capital reserve helps save for future maintenance, repair and replacement of the association’s existing major components.

It’s split into two sub-funds: • Repair and Replacement Fund: Saves for fixing or replacing items that wear out within 30 years – like HVAC systems, flooring, or lighting in shared areas.

• Long Life Fund: Saves for big repairs to things that last more than 30 years.

These are large, expensive projects that require long-term planning – like the building’s roof, foundation or utility systems. These are large, expensive projects that require longterm planning.

• Development Fund: This capital reserve is for new capital improvements. It includes two sub-funds: • New Capital Projects Fund: Savings for investing in land purchases, or Continued on Page 4

Vera Fuad (Header/Photo Contest 2022 Entry)

Miah Cottrell | Director of Information Technology mcottrell@tahoedonner.com

One partner for all your vacation home needs

Proudly Serving Truckee & Tahoe-Donner For Over 25 Years

CLEANING & HOT TUB CARE HOME CHECKS & SNOW SHOVELING MAINTENANCE & DEFENSIBLE SPACE GUEST SERVICES & MORE YOUR LOCAL 24/7 CONTACT

Serving Tahoe Donner for 25 years

dedenpainting.com

Email or call: SHC@secondhomecare.com 530-582-0220 www.secondhomecare.com Offices at 17400 Northwoods Blvd in TD

CA Lic #1075237

Full Service Painting Contractor

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

3

General Manager’s Welcome, Continued major facility enhancements like additional snowmaking or new parking lots for example.

• New Equipment Fund: Covers the cost of new furniture, technology or other equipment that the association adds for the first time.

In Simple Terms: • The Operating Fund keeps things running today.

• The Reserve Study Fund keeps Tahoe Donner well-maintained for tomorrow.

• The Development Fund invests in Tahoe Donner’s future.

Get Involved: Budget Board Meetings Members are encouraged to attend upcoming budget meetings – either in person or via Zoom. Meetings are recorded and available on the board meeting webpage. Like last year, we have scheduled the third board meeting on the 2026 Annual Budget and Annual Assessment in the evening to promote broader participation.

Here's the meeting schedule: • Sept. 26: Review of the 2026 Capital Funds budgets and consolidated budget/ assessment drafts

• Oct. 14 (evening session): The board’s first opportunity to approve the 2026 Annual Budget and Annual Assessment • Oct. 17: Special meeting for final decision if needed As always, the management and board look forward to hearing from you through member input or seeing you at the amenities.

Annie Rosenfeld General Manager gm@tahoedonner.com

SEPTEMBER

Detail Meetings + Reviews

JULY + AUGUST

OCTOBER

Budget Creation + Finance Committee Review

Final Budget Review + Approval

JUNE

Strategic Plan Guidance

OPEN BUDGET WORKSHOPS

Aug. 29, Sept. 26, Oct. 14 and Oct. 17 (if needed)

The budget process determines the Annual Assessment for each property owner and how assessment dollars are distributed between the various funds, which allows Tahoe Donner Association to achieve short- and long-term goals.

THE BUDGET DIRECTLY IMPACTS YOUR ANNUAL ASSESSMENT AND THE COST OF SERVICES OFFERED

BY TAHOE DONNER.

THERE ARE THREE PRIMARY FUNDS THAT DETERMINE YOUR ANNUAL ASSESSMENT: OPERATING FUND: Covers Tahoe Donner’s day-to-day operating common expenses (e.g. staff, utilities,

cleaning, insurance)

RESERVE STUDY FUND: This umbrella capital reserve saves for the maintenance, repair and replacement of the Association’s existing major components. It’s split into two sub-funds: REPAIR + REPLACEMENT FUND: Saves for corrective maintenance and repair, and the replacement of items that wear out within 30 years (e.g. paint, flooring, vehicles) LONG LIFE FUND: Saves for the repair and replacement of items that last longer than 30 years (e.g. roofs, foundation, and full facility replacement)

DEVELOPMENT FUND: This umbrella fund is for new capital improvements. It includes two sub-funds: NEW CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND: Savings for real estate purchases and major facility additions and enhancements (e.g. new trailheads and additional snowmaking) NEW EQUIPMENT FUND: Savings for new furniture, technology, and other new equipment purchases.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT TAHOEDONNER.COM/2026-BUDGET-WORKSHOPS

WAYS TO PARTICIPATE Members are encouraged to participate throughout the 2026 budget season in a variety of ways:

4

Visit the budget hub to learn more at tahoedonner.com/ 2026-budget-workshops

Participate in budget meetings this September and October

Provide feedback on the online form on the web hub

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

5

FEATURE

La Fuerza Latina Agency From Nonprofit Roots to LLC Growth — Expanding Impact, While Staying True to Our Mission

BY MARLYN ANGELES AND LESLIE CARATACHEA

Meet Marlyn Angeles and Leslie Caratachea, Co-Founders of La Fuerza Latina Agency, a woman-of-color-owned public relations and marketing firm rooted in the same passions and values that inspired the nonprofit La Fuerza Latina. In celebration of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month theme, “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future,” Marlyn and Leslie share the academic and professional paths that took them on vastly different journeys and ultimately led them back to their community and where it all began.

Divergent Roads With a Common Foundation Before there was La Fuerza Latina Agency, there was La Fuerza Latina, a local nonprofit organization founded by Truckee High School English teacher and mentor, Craig Rowe. It offers supplemental educational resources and college preparatory services for Latinx high school students.

More than just a program, however, La Fuerza Latina nonprofit is a transformative community where meaningful relationships are forged and a shared commitment to uplifting underserved Latinx students has taken hold.

As a pre-college preparatory initiative, the nonprofit addresses critical systemic gaps in access to SAT preparation, college application guidance and mentorship, resources often unavailable to many Latinx families. For students like Marlyn and Leslie, whose parents immigrated seeking greater opportunities, the program provided the essential educational support their families had never received or could provide. Despite their parents’ unwavering love and encouragement, they had limited formal education, often completing only middle school. La Fuerza Latina equips students with the tools and confidence to rewrite this narrative, profoundly impacting them and the generations before.

Upon graduating high school, Leslie and Marlyn each pursued higher education on full-ride scholarships in opposite corners of the country. Leslie earned a degree from Wesleyan University, a highly selective institution in the East, while Marlyn graduated from California State University, Chico, one of the top regional universities in the West. Despite their divergent roads, the impact of La Fuerza Latina continued to influence both of their journeys.

The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is a proud supporter of La Fuerza Latina nonprofit organization.

6

Still Waters Run Deep: Leslie’s Story Leslie is a proud Truckee-raised Latina whose path to Wesleyan University began with limited access but a deep sense of determination. In her Latinx community, college wasn’t something people regularly talked about. Day-today survival often took precedence over long-term dreams.

Her story began in a ninth-grade English class, where she first met Craig Rowe, then a student teacher. Together, they explored The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros.

Leslie never imagined that this same teacher would later help her craft college essays at Wesleyan, drawing on the very author they had studied years before.

Following that first year, Craig was offered the opportunity to teach Honors English. Not long after, Leslie was pulled from her math class by both her counselor and Craig, who asked her to consider joining the Honors course.

Confused, she thought they had mistaken her for someone else. But Craig insisted he saw something in her – a leader with a gift for public speaking, someone who could tell stories that resonated with and inspired others. Though hesitant, Leslie enrolled. Just a week into the class, she returned to Craig’s room, hoping he would sign off on her request to transfer back into regular English 10. After a long conversation, Craig told her he would sign if she genuinely wanted to leave, but not before sharing that her talent didn’t belong hidden in the back of classrooms. That moment stuck with her.

Everything changed when Leslie joined the founding cohort of La Fuerza Latina. Working closely with Craig, now a mentor and founder of the program, she experienced for the first time what it felt like to be truly seen and supported. That pivotal experience planted the belief that higher education was not only possible but within reach.

Her leadership quickly grew, and she became a co-founder of the La Fuerza Latina nonprofit, helping to shape a program that would go on to impact dozens of students like herself. The mentorship and resources she received through La Fuerza Latina carried her all the way to Wesleyan University on a full-ride scholarship. There, she often found herself the only Latina in the room. Even so, she carried her community with her every step of the way, grounded by the values instilled through La Fuerza Latina.

Now back in Truckee, Leslie brings a fresh perspective and a purpose-driven mindset to everything she does.

Her work is rooted in amplifying community voices and elevating local stories. With a passion for civic Continued on Page 8

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

7

Kelli Price

Leslie Caratachea (left) and Marlyn Angeles, Co-Founders of La Fuerza Latina Agency.

engagement and deep ties to her hometown, she blends strategic marketing with compelling storytelling to create meaningful impact. Her professional experience includes collaborations with national thought leaders like Strong Towns USA and grassroots campaigns for organizations like the Truckee Donner Land Trust. She has also worked with trusted local institutions, including Porter Simon Law Group, where she developed a strong foundation in publicfacing communications and client-first solutions.

What drew Leslie to marketing wasn’t a traditional path but a love for storytelling and a deep desire to connect people through shared values and lived experiences. She sees marketing as a bridge, a way to foster understanding, especially in a town like Truckee, where language barriers and cultural differences can often lead to unintentional disconnects. Inspired by the ongoing support for La Fuerza Latina and the growing visibility of the Latinx community, Leslie is committed to using communication as a tool for connection and belonging. She continues to be inspired by each new cohort of La Fuerza Latina students graduating from top-tier universities, proof that access and support create real change.

As La Fuerza Latina Agency continues to grow, Leslie hopes to build a lasting pipeline of opportunity, offering scholarships, mentorship and real-world experience to students who share her drive to succeed and give back. For her, this work is not just professional; it’s deeply personal.

It’s about honoring the community that stood by her and ensuring that support continues for the next generation.

Rooted in Writing: Marlyn’s Journey Marlyn’s journey into public relations began with a deep-rooted love for writing. From journaling in the park and scribbling poems on scraps of paper to crafting narrative stories in school, the written word has always been her most authentic form of communication. Most of her early work lived quietly in notebooks, unseen and unread by the world. That changed the day she stepped into Craig Rowe’s English 11 classroom.

Craig had a distinctive way of beginning a 9AM class – playing rap or hip-hop music through speakers. His classroom stood out not just for its soundtrack, but for its atmosphere. He treated his students as equals and made it clear from the outset that his class was a space of possibility. What truly mattered, he said, wasn’t just showing up, but how students chose to use their time, both in the classroom and in life. While some dismissed his motivational speeches as overly sentimental, they resonated deeply with Marlyn. They sparked something within her and snapped her out of autopilot. What had been a pattern of coasting through school with average grades transformed into a daily pursuit of purpose and intention.

Craig had a way of planting seeds that insisted on being nurtured. Once students recognized their potential, it became impossible to ignore. He was among the first to describe Marlyn’s writing as a gift, helping her to realize that her passion for writing was not as impractical a career 8

path as she once believed. It was not only possible, but essential. That shift in perspective marked the beginning of her academic and professional ascent.

Around that time, the La Fuerza Latina nonprofit was in its early stages of development, and Marlyn became an active member. It quickly became more than just a program.

It became a space that felt larger than herself, where aspirations no longer felt out of reach but tangible and attainable. With the guidance and support of both Craig and Kasey McJunkin, she was introduced to resources that had previously seemed inaccessible. Navigating the complexities of the FAFSA process, a once-daunting and unfamiliar task, became a routine topic of conversation and eventually, a manageable reality. Their mentorship provided not only logistical support but also the emotional reassurance that her goals were worth pursuing.

In 2022, Marlyn earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and public relations. She returned to her hometown, determined to realize a dream born in the very place where her story began.

A Shared Vision for the Future in La Fuerza Latina Agency After college, life and a shared passion for giving back to the community led Leslie and Marlyn back to where it all began. Together, they launched La Fuerza Latina Agency, a community-focused initiative rooted in a shared vision to empower local businesses and support the next generation of public relations professionals. A women-of-color-owned public relations and marketing firm, the agency is grounded in a mission to amplify community voices – one caption, one article, one photo and one design at a time.

This work is deeply personal for both of them. Leslie and Marlyn have walked the path that many Latinx students in this community are just beginning. Through La Fuerza Latina Agency, they hope to build a bridge not just for themselves, but for every young person who dares to dream beyond their circumstances while honoring the nonprofit and academic community that gave them their start.

Ultimately, they want to demonstrate that where you begin doesn’t define how far you can go. To learn more about Leslie, Marlyn and La Fuerza Latina Agency, visit lflagency.com.

Craig Rowe (middle) with La Fuerza Latina students.

Now Licensed Roofing Contractor!

dr. damien fertitta esq

LAW SERVICES

PERSONAL INJURY LAW BUSINESS LAW REAL ESTATE LAW

One call does it all!

ESTATE PLANNING

General Contractor ∙ Kitchen and Bath Remodels Decks - Building, Repair, Refinishing Window Installation ∙ Painting and Staining Electrical ∙ Plumbing ∙ Drywall Roofing - Repair, Replace, Heat Tape

REAL ESTATE BROKER DRE #02174021

www.mrhoneydo.biz

(530)581-4031 (530)5814031 • (775)548-4031

LAW-DOC.COM | FERTITTA@LAW-DOC.COM | 530.510.8112

Check out the Tahoe Donner Business Directory From real estate or home improvement to snow removal and more, conveniently find the services you need from this comprehensive list of local businesses.

CA Lic #775721 NV Lic #075038

Looking for expert help?

CLSB #974246 | NVCB #0086260

SOOTHE. BALANCE. ENERGIZE.

tahoedonner.com/business-directory These services are provided for Tahoe Donner homeowners. The businesses included in the directory are advertisers with Tahoe Donner. Tahoe Donner Association makes no claims regarding the quality of goods or services provided by these companies. Potential customers are advised to use their own best judgment.

Your Professional Recovery Starts Here.

Hot Tubs for instant muscle relief and sleep like a baby.

Saunas for physical and mental balance.

Cold Plunges for an energetic vibration that lasts. Stop letting soreness and stress dictate your day. Take control of your well-being. Visit us and feel the difference for yourself.

530.587.6681 | MountainHomeCenter.com | 11403 Brockway Road, Truckee, CA

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

9

FEATURE

BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA

H T 4 1 E H T L L A F L A U ANN F E ST I VA L S N R U T E R

Some seasonal traditions are simply meant to stand the test of time, and there is nothing quite like a fall harvest festival to evoke those feelings of warmth and togetherness each year.

Whether it’s to bid farewell to another memorable summer or to welcome in the autumn changes, the Fall Festival is a celebratory gathering to enrich this bittersweet time of transition with sentiments of joy and abundance.

From an array of fun activities and sweet treats for kids to live music and entertainment for everyone in the family, this year’s festival is sure to get you into the spirit of the fall season!

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/FALL-FESTIVAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

10

Everyone’s favorite annual community event is back and brimming with all the fall feels! Soak in the magic of autumn in the Sierras while you immerse yourself in the nostalgia of this classic festival, featuring old favorites like the pumpkin patch and pony rides and new ones like an inflatable obstacle course and even axe throwing (ages 17+; closed-toe shoes required). Kids dressed in Halloween costumes receive a complimentary gift, too!

Each year, staff continue to expand festival offerings for the Tahoe Donner community to look forward to. Miguel Sloane, Director of Operations, shares, “This is one of our favorite events, and it’s been rewarding to see it grow alongside the members and their families that continue to enjoy it year after year!”

In addition to all the fun-filled activities for kids, adults can enjoy live music entertainment while enjoying a beverage or two outside Pizza on the Hill.

“FALL” INTO THE FUN WITH ACTIVITIES LIKE:

LOCAL ART VENDORS

PETTING ZOO

CLIMBING WALL

PUMPKIN PATCH

FACE PAINTING

BUNGEE TRAMPOLINE

WILD THINGS ANIMAL SHOW

BALLOON TWISTERS

INFLATABLE OBSTACLE COURSE

BOUNCE HOUSE

MAZE

DOGGIE DIP

PONY RIDES

ARCHERY (AGES 7+)

CARAMEL APPLES + SWEET TREATS

Note: All events subject to change.

FOOD + BEVERAGE OPTIONS Come for the fair, stay for the food! Pizza on the Hill’s bar will be open along with a festive, special event menu for the whole family, including Oktoberfest-style pretzels with beer cheese dip, bratwursts (veggie option available) and other goodies for kids.

Of course, no fall festival is complete without sweet treats like cotton candy, popcorn and caramel apples!

JOIN US An admission fee is required to attend this community event.

Tickets will be available for purchase on ShopTD in early September. Be sure to secure your day full of fun and excitement in advance. Ticket prices increase the day of, and only a limited number of tickets will be available the day of the festival.

Learn more and buy tickets at tahoedonner.com/fall-festival.

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

11

Camy Bretin (Art Vendors, Pumpkin Patch, Face Painting, Caramel Apples, Join Us); Jessica Svoboda (Petting Zoo, Bounce House); Robbie Sell (Climbing Wall, Bungee Trampoline, Inflatable Obstacle Course, Doggie Dip, Pony Rides); Victor Villodre (Wild Things Animal Show, Balloon Twisters, Maze, Archery, Food + Beverage Options)

ACTIVITIES

FEATURE

PGA Jr. League Season Recap

BY WILLIAM APOTHEKER Another successful PGA Jr. League Golf season with Tahoe Donner Golf Course is in the books! With 36 players across the Home, Development and Travel teams, it was one of the largest groups to date for the program. While the kids primarily focus on skills development and gaining valuable on-course experience, several big wins and a few close losses in tournament play made for a noteworthy season.

“We focus on positive attitude, good effort and enjoying the game, in addition to developing their golf skills each week,” says LPGA Professional and PGA Jr. League Program Director Molly Springmann.

“Safety, pace of play, and respect for yourself, others and the golf course are also top priorities for us. Over the course of the summer, I saw a ton of golf skill improvement from all players. But most importantly, I loved the friendships and great community of players, coaches and volunteers that formed over our ten week program.”

Special thanks go to all the coaches and volunteers who help make the PGA Jr. League program possible at Tahoe Donner. In chatting with the youth golfers, they all expressed how much they’ve learned along the way. “The coaches taught us a lot of great tips, like keeping my feet straight when I drive the ball,” says 9-year-old Julia Good. “I’ve been doing the camp for two years now, and it feels really good to see my game improve.”

While the competitive golf season may be over, Tahoe Donner Golf Course and Driving Range remain open through midOctober – weather and conditions permitting. Junior golf clinics and post-season practice rounds run through Oct. 5, and private lessons are also available for a more tailored and individualized experience. In winter, golfers of all ages can continue developing their game with the FlightScope launch monitor and game simulator located inside the Pro Shop.

For additional information on all junior golf programs available, visit tahoedonner.com/golf.

PLAYER PROFILE: Alex Sena AGE: 11 years old STARTING PLAYING GOLF: Six years ago, and I’ve been playing at Tahoe Donner for four years.

FAVORITE HOLE AT TAHOE DONNER GOLF COURSE: #13. I like the dog leg because I just hug the corner and usually do really well.

LEAST FAVORITE HOLE AT TAHOE DONNER GOLF COURSE: #1. It’s

the hardest hole on the course, and the first one is usually the toughest for me because I have to warm up.

FAVORITE PART OF THE PGA JR. LEAGUE GOLF PROGRAM: There's good competition, and I like playing in tournaments and checking out the other courses around Lake Tahoe. Best of all, we get free golf after noon!

FAVORITE PART ABOUT PLAYING GOLF: It’s a calming sport, and

you don't get a lot of injuries. It also gives you pretty good hand-eye coordination.

12

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

13

FEATURE

SMALL BUT MIGHTY

TAHOE DONNER SKI TEAM 2024/25 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

BY MARCELA MIRANDA, PARENT VOLUNTEER

The Tahoe Donner Ski Team may be small in number but we are mighty in spirit, skill and success! This year, our team was made up of 15 incredible athletes – 12 in the U12 and up categories and 3 in the U10 category – each demonstrating outstanding progress, perseverance and sportsmanship.

Eleven of our athletes proudly competed in two racing programs, taking on major teams from across the Tahoe Basin with remarkable results.

TAHOE LEAGUE RACING SERIES HIGHLIGHTS • Edward Innes (U14) dominated the slopes, earning three medals – two for first place and one for second place. He was also crowned the League Champion for the second year in a row!

• Charlie Rung (U12) finished strong with two fifth-place medals and took fourth overall in the season standings for his division.

• Teo Beisel (U14) had an impressive season, earning a fifthplace medal.

• Cat Berson (U10) made tremendous strides in technique and competitiveness and showed remarkable advancement throughout the season.

USSA FAR WEST DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS Edward Innes (U14) also competed in the USSA Far West U14 California Challenge Series, finishing 30th overall out of 97 athletes.

His outstanding performance earned him an invitation to the Spring Select Training Camp at Stevens Pass, Washington – a significant recognition of his talent and hard work. He competed in the U14 Far West Divisional Championships, finishing 21st in Slalom and 17th in Big G.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

HEARTFELT GRATITUDE This season’s success would not have been possible without the dedication of our coaches, parents and support crew. We extend our deepest thanks to: • Head Coaches: Jim Sommer, Andrew Innes and Kayla Wieczorek • Assistant Coach: Arthur Innes • Ski School Director: David Walker • Downhill Ski Resort Operations and Grooming Team: Rob McClendon, Josh Geiszler and the entire crew Congratulations to all our athletes and their families. Your commitment and passion continue to make the Tahoe Donner Ski Team a force to be reckoned with. Let’s keep the momentum going into 2025/26!

RAISE A SKI RACER OR COMPETITIVE RIDER THIS UPCOMING 2025/26 SEASON Is your child interested in experiencing the thrill and excitement of competitive skiing and snowboarding?

Registration is now open for Tahoe Donner’s ski race team and recreational ski and snowboard teams. Tahoe Donner ski racers participate in the Tahoe League Race Series, and recreational skiers and riders enhance their skills while making friends and having fun!

Visit tahoedonner.com/downhill-ski for registration information and to learn more about all youth programs at Tahoe Donner’s Downhill Ski Resort.

Ryan Salm (Header); Marcela Miranda (Photo Bar)

Looking ahead, Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort is excited to launch two dedicated teams next season: one for U10 and younger athletes and another for U12 and up. This shift allows for

more individualized coaching: providing focused foundational development for our youngest racers and more specialized disciplinebased coaching for our more experienced skiers. We are committed to meeting each athlete’s individual needs and goals. Our goal is to instill a love for skiing that will carry throughout their life.

14

2025/26 SKI SEASON PASSES AND PROGRAMS ON SALE NOW DOWNHILL | CROSS COUNTRY | COMBO

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/SKISEASONPASSES

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Join us October 9th for a how-to, hands-on Community Connections: Oyster Shuck & Eat with Zack at Buoy & Trap Seafood Market!

Learn more on Truckee.com

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

15

Buzz The

upcoming championship tournament at the Tennis + Pickleball Center Sept.

26-28. With men’s and women’s singles and doubles, as well as mixed divisions, register now on courtreserve.com for an exciting weekend of competitive energy and community fun!

LOCAL ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, DINING + MORE

Sweater Weather It is the advent of autumn, or as I like to call it, “sweater weather,” when the equinox carries forth the seasonal proliferation of chunky cable knits, kneehigh boots and pumpkin spice everything: lattes, candles, cupcakes, chewing gum and…cat litter?! If you don’t believe me, check out Spoon University’s “Weirdest Pumpkin Spice Products of 2024” at spoonuniversity.com/lifestyle/ weirdest-pumpkin-spice-products for a list of perhaps the most comically unnecessary applications of the harvest season’s most ubiquitous spice.

But that’s not to say I begrudge this time of year. In fact, it’s just the opposite.

I relish the fall for our inevitable return to a steadier rhythm, whether it’s back-toschool schedules and weekend sports or settling back into a predictable routine at work or home. Our lives, I believe, are lived most harmoniously when in sync with each passing season. And fall, above all else, is the season to be… cozy.

All the Fall Feels + Sports Galore Speaking of cozy, get your flannels ready for Tahoe Donner’s favorite community event: the 14th Annual Fall Festival returns Oct. 11,

16

including all your favorite nostalgic festivities, like a pumpkin patch, bounce house, wild animal show, petting zoo, face painting, seasonal food and drinks and more. Purchase tickets online at tahoedonner.com/fall-festival.

Football fans can also rejoice in the return of “Friday Night Lights” with Truckee High School’s Wolverines at Surprise Stadium, or catch NCAA college and NFL games on the big screen with food and drink specials throughout the week at Pizza on the Hill (Sundays and Mondays beginning Sept. 7) or The Lodge Restaurant & Pub (Thursdays beginning Sept. 11).

Game-Set-Match! Head to the Tennis + Pickleball Center Sept. 6-7 for food, fun and the US Open Women’s (Sept. 6 from 1-4PM) and Men’s (Sept. 7 from 11AM-2PM) Finals. Fun Fact: This year’s US Open sets the record for the largest purse in tennis history, with men’s and women’s champions pocketing a cool $5 million each for their hard-won victories.

Nothing brings the excitement to the courts like a high-stakes, highprize tournament!

After honing your skills all season long, put your tennis or pickleball skills to the ultimate test in the

Locals’ Summer The weather may be cooling down and the days getting shorter, but locals’ summer is just beginning. With fewer out-of-town visitors to crowd your favorite jaunts, now is the time to get out and enjoy the best of Tahoe Donner.

Catch the stunning bursts of color on the Aspen trees along the Tahoe Donner Trail System. With Bikeworks open through Oct. 19, rent an eMTB to tour the trails or saunter along on foot.

The Beach Club Marina is open through Oct. 5 for swimmers, sunbathers and sandcastle builders to soak in the last of summer without the hustle and bustle of seasonal crowds.

Starting Sept. 29 through Oct. 12, late/ post-season rates will apply at Tahoe Donner Golf Course, where members can play for as low as $30. It's also an ideal time to take advantage of the milder weather and less crowded courts at the Tennis + Pickleball Center. Or, start your winter training now with an XC fall conditioning program at Alder Creek Adventure Center (see page 23 for details).

Amenity Closing Dates The following amenities will be closing soon until next season: • Beach Club Marina – Closing Oct. 5 • Bikeworks – Closing Oct. 19 • Campground – Closing Sept. 14 • Equestrian Center – Closing Oct. 12 • Golf Course + Driving Range – Closing Oct. 12 • Northwoods Pool – Closing Oct. 10 • Rec Hut – Closing Oct. 10 • Tennis + Pickleball Center – Closing Oct. 26 • Trout Creek Rec Center Pools + Hot Tubs – Closing Sept. 2 for Renovations

See Tahoe Donner amenities information, including hours and websites on page 17. View complete amenity event details online.

September

1

Last Edi-Bōl Dinner of the Summer and Live Music at The Lodge Pavilion tahoedonner.com/edi-bol-dinner

Last Bingo Night at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/bingo

3

Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse See page 19

4

Navigating Perimenopause + Menopause Class at Trout Creek Rec Center tahoedonner.com/events

6

US Open Women’s Final Viewing Party at Tennis + Pickleball Center tahoedonner.com/events

7

US Open Men’s Final Viewing Party at Tennis + Pickleball Center tahoedonner.com/events

13

Intro to Trick Riding, Balance and Confidence Clinic with Kansas Carradine at Equestrian Center Through Sept. 14

tahoedonner.com/events

TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS + HOURS Beach Club Marina

20

Trick ‘n’ Trail Riding Retreat with Kansas Carradine at Equestrian Center Through Sept. 21

tahoedonner.com/events

23

Forestry Fuel Reduction Work Tour at Bermgarten Trailhead tahoedonner.com/events

26

Regular Board Meeting + Budget Workshop at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/board-meetings

Championship Tournaments at Tennis + Pickleball Center tahoedonner.com/events

Mondays 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 NFL Dining Specials at Pizza on the Hill Starting Sept. 8 (not available Sept. 1)

tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials

Tuesdays 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 American Mah Jongg Club at Alder Creek Adventure Center New Location!

See page 18

Thurdays 4, 11, 18, 25 NFL Dining Specials at The Lodge Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials

Fridays 5, 12, 19, 26 Free Family Movie Night at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/ family-movie-night

17

Sundays 7, 14, 21, 28

Quilt Club Meeting at Pizza on the Hill

NFL Dining Specials at Pizza on the Hill

See page 19

tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials

All events are weather permitting. See full event list at tahoedonner.com/events.

(530) 587-9460 tahoedonner.com/marina marina@tahoedonner.com Open Daily Through Sept. 1 | 7AM-9PM Sept. 2-Oct. 5 | 8AM-7PM Marina Grill Open Daily Through Sept. 1 | 11AM-6PM Starting Sept. 2 | 11AM-4PM Grab + Go daily; Grill available weekends only.

Bikeworks

(530) 582-9694 tahoedonner.com/bikeworks bikeworks@tahoedonner.com Open Daily Monday-Thursday | 9AM-4PM Friday-Sunday | 9AM-6PM

Campground

(530) 587-9462 tahoedonner.com/campground campground@tahoedonner.com Closing for season on Sept. 14.

Equestrian Center

(530) 587-9470 tahoedonner.com/equestrian equestrian@tahoedonner.com 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 Through Sept. 14 | 7AM-7PM Sept. 15-30 | 8AM-6PM Oct. 1-12 | 9AM-5PM Driving Range Open Daily Through Sept. 14 | 6:30AM-8PM Sept. 15-30 | 8:30AM-6:30PM Oct. 1-Close | 9:30AM-6PM 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 Oct. 10 | 11:30AM-5PM Extended Operations Due to Trout Creek Rec Center Pool Closures

Recreation Hut

(530) 582-9646 tahoedonner.com/recreation recreation@tahoedonner.com Open Daily Through Oct. 10 | 11:30AM-5PM All amenities are weather and conditions permitting. Check the website or call for most upto-date information.

Tennis + Pickleball Center (530) 587-9474 tahoedonner.com/tennis tennis@tahoedonner.com Open Daily Through Sept. 7 | 7:30AM-7:30PM Sept. 8-28 | 8AM-7PM Sept. 29-Oct. 12 | 8AM-6:30PM Oct. 13-26 | 8AM-6PM

Trails

(530) 582-9672 tahoedonner.com/trails trails@tahoedonner.com Please avoid construction zones

Trout Creek Rec Center

(530) 587-9437 tahoedonner.com/aquatics tahoedonner.com/fitness troutcreek@tahoedonner.com All pools will close Sept. 2 to mid-December for renovations Gym Open Daily | 6AM-10PM Lap Pool Open Sept. 1 | 6AM-8:45PM Rec Pool + Kiddie Pool Open Sept. 1 | 10:30AM-7PM Hot Tubs, Sauna + Steam Room Open Sept. 1 | 6AM-9:45PM Marco Polo Grill Open Sept. 1 | 11:30AM-4PM

Dining Alder Creek Cafe

(530) 582-9686 tahoedonner.com/aldercreekcafe Open Sept. 1 | 12-5PM Open Friday-Sunday Through Sept. 2-28 | 12-5PM Closed for season on Sept. 29

The Lodge Restaurant & Pub

(530) 587-9455 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge lodge@tahoedonner.com Pavilion Breakfast Through Oct. 12 | Opening-10AM Opens 30 minutes before first tee time

Lunch Through Oct. 12 | 10AM-5PM Dinner Open Sept. 1 | 5-9PM Open Wednesday-Sunday Starting Sept. 3 | 5-8:30PM

Pizza on the Hill

(530) 587-9669 tahoedonner.com/pizza pizza@tahoedonner.com Open Sept. 1 | 4-8PM Open Friday-Tuesday Starting Sept. 5 | 4-8PM Ask about our First Responders Discount!

Member Services

(530) 587-9400 tahoedonner.com/welcome info@tahoedonner.com Open Monday-Saturday Starting Sept. 1 | 8AM-5PM

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

17

The Buzz:

Clubs 4-Wheelers Club

American Mah Jongg Club

We had a fun run up to Babbitt Peak Fire Lookout to visit with Shelly, the fire spotter, and her German Shepherd, Betsy. I love going up to Babbitt Peak as the views are fantastic, and it is nice to thank Shelly for the great service she provides our region. In fact, on our prior run to Duncan Peak Fire Lookout, the spotter there told us Shelly had just that day called in two fires caused by lightning strikes near Stampede Reservoir that were quickly extinguished. Way to go, Shelly!

Mah Jongg Tips: Calling With a Concealed Hand!

Concealed hands are like quiet masterpieces – you build them in secret and keep your cards close (literally). But guess what? If someone throws your final tile, you’re allowed to break your silence and shout “Mah Jongg!” Yep – even with a concealed hand.

What if two people have Mah Jongg?

If you both declare at the same time, whoever’s turn is next gets the Mah Jongg.

But if two people have it and one person puts up their hand and declares Mah Jongg before the other, it’s too late for that second person.

On the way up to Babbitt Peak, participants had the option to take one or two major obstacles on the Bear Valley OHV Trail, Winch Hills 1 and 2. The entry to Winch Hill 2 has a short rock crawl that is good for sharpening 4WD skills. Then, we passed and admired the largest old, giant Western Junipers in the area. It was a splendid day!

See TD4Wheelers.org for additional club information and come join us on our next run!

18

The Club meets at a NEW location at the Alder Creek Adventure Center, every Tuesday from 1-4PM. No RSVP needed!

For more information about the American Mah Jongg Club, contact Dori Schick at doridans@hotmail.com or Deb Bloomberg at debbala@comcast.net.

Equestrian Club The Equestrian Club will host a speaker/ workshop on Sept. 13 from 9-12AM at the Alder Creek Adventure Center. Horse adventurer, long rider and army veteran

Samantha Szesciorka has ridden over 3,000 miles all over Nevada and, most recently, the Tahoe Rim Trail. She will present a GPS Gaia workshop on route planning and navigation, and share some of her many trail adventures.

A TD Equestrian Club member will lead a six-mile ride following the workshop. For more details about the event and how you can participate, visit nevadahorsetrails.com or email karenjaneaaron@gmail.com.

Men’s 9-Hole Golf Club We have lift-off! The TD board approved the formation of the Men’s 9-Hole Golf Club on June 27. Our first play day was Aug. 6. Thereafter, they are on Wednesdays at 4PM. Multi-play packs and season passes can be used. Otherwise, the green fees will be $60 for TD members and $85 for non-members, including a cart.

All are welcome! No handicap index is needed. 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 also fit right in. There are no dues this initial season. We will meet to discuss other events for this year and plans for next year.

The course is in beautiful condition. We will have a 9-hole rate and, of course, a social event or two. Call the Golf Course to sign up no later than 12PM on Mondays, prior to Wednesday play days. Interested in becoming a club member? Contact Michael Eyton-Lloyd at hmsmike1@aol.com.

For additional information, email Raymond Cadei at raytoni110@gmail.com.

Men’s Golf Club The TD Men’s Golf Club hosts a few tournaments each year that are open to ALL TD homeowners. Earlier this season, we hosted the very popular Parent/Child – Junior/Senior Tournament, with two

CLUB CONTACTS flights that were each won, for the first time in the tournament’s history, by a mother/son combination.

The winners: On the left, Martha Gilbertson and her son-in-law, Connor Bernatz; and on the right, Martha Murphy and her son Carson Murphy.

In September, we will be hosting two additional tournaments open to all TD homeowners: The Tahoe Donner Memorial, a two-person scramble format event on Sept. 14, and the Chapman, a 2-person modified Scotch event on Sept. 28. These tournaments are a great way to get a taste of competitive golf in a fun and stressfree atmosphere. We encourage all TD homeowners to consider participating.

For more information about these tournaments, the Men’s Golf Club and any membership inquiries, visit tdgolfclub.com or contact Membership Chair Dave Janiszewski at janiszewski.tdgolf@gmail.com.

Quilt Club Goodness, how can it already be September? My summer was a lot busier than usual, and I feel like I missed a lot of opportunities to enjoy the warmer season.

But September brings its own treasures of warm weather and color changes.

One of the things that kept me and another TD quilting friend away from Truckee was a Quilting Retreat (our first!), where we met a lot of interesting and talented quilters. I thought I would show you one of the pieces made by Melinda. This quilt was made with a central fabric panel. Fabric manufacturers are now offering a multitude of panels of various subjects – old cars, animals, holiday themes and more. This one is a beautiful nature scene. So, if you have always wanted to make a quilt but were intimidated by the work, this is a good way to start. You can buy a kit with all fabrics included, or you can purchase just the panel and make a border as intricate or as simple as you want.

If you would like to know what we do, contact me at odette.turmel@gmail.com.

Our group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at the Northwoods Clubhouse from 3-5PM.

4-Wheelers

Women’s Golf Club

Men’s 9-Hole Golf

The TD Women’s 18-Holers have enjoyed a fantastic season filled with tournaments, games and special events. Highlights so far include a successful two-day invitational, the Club Championship Aug. 19-20 and the exciting conclusion of the President’s Cup on Aug. 29.

But the season isn’t over yet, play continues through mid-October! We’re especially excited to welcome the ladies from Incline for a fun two-day exchange.

Tahoe Donner will host on Tuesday, Sept. 9, followed by a visit to Incline on Wednesday, Sept. 10. Then, on Sept. 18, we’ll team up with the TD Women’s 9-Holers for a joint play day.

We’re also bringing back Four Clubs and a Putter, a popular game introduced last year, which is guaranteed to add some extra fun to the season! For our full calendar and more information on how to get involved, visit tdwomengolf.org. Come join the fun!

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 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 Joe Rosenfeld info@tdski.com

Women’s Golf

Mary Liz Wardlaw tdwgclub@gmail.com

Form a Club!

Whiskey? Dance? Cribbage?

We want to support you in developing and promoting your club. Learn more and get an application at tahoedonner.com/clubs.

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

19

THE REPORT

TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND SUPPORTING SIERRA SENIOR SERVICES, KEEPING OUR SENIORS SAFE them not only for the meals they provide but also for the human connection they deliver with each one.

MAKING A LIFE-CHANGING DIFFERENCE Their work is full of quiet, everyday wins, but sometimes, the difference they make is nothing short of life-changing. A community member who joined the program in August 2024 was living alone, struggling to get out of bed and often called the team in distress – confused, disoriented and hungry. Staff quickly realized they were his only reliable source of food. They increased his meal deliveries and checked in regularly. Slowly, he began to stabilize. Today, he’s up every morning, dressed and ready to greet the volunteers. He no longer calls in crisis. “He could have gotten lost in our community and ended up in a very bad state,” said Executive Director Vivian Ruiz. “Because we checked in on him, he’s in a much better place.”

DELIVERING MEALS AND MORE Every week, hundreds of local seniors open the door to a warm smile, a wellness check-in and a hot, healthy meal – delivered by the staff and volunteers of Sierra Senior Services. With seven routes stretching from Kings Beach to Incline Village and beyond, this vital service provides far more than nourishment. For many, it’s a lifeline of connection, care and dignity.

Since 2001, Sierra Senior Services has been the only organization in our region providing consistent, home-delivered meals to adults over 60 who are unable to shop or cook for themselves. Meals are prepared from scratch in their Truckee-based kitchen and tailored to a range of dietary needs – even blended if necessary. In winter months, volunteers brave snowy roads to ensure no one is left without support. The team also prepares shelf-stable kits in case weather conditions cut off access.

HELPING TO MEET INCREASING NEEDS Last year alone, Sierra Senior Services delivered more than 43,000 meals. With demand continuing to rise, the organization is in the process of adding two new routes, and their kitchen just hit capacity – they are actively seeking a larger space to help them serve more seniors throughout the region.

The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund has proudly supported Sierra Senior Services in seven of our ten grantmaking years. Our funding has helped them purchase commercial kitchen equipment, expand delivery capacity and meet growing community needs. We support

Vivian joined the organization earlier this year, bringing with her more than 20 years of experience in health care and nonprofit leadership.

As a new leader, she brings a fresh vision and deep commitment to helping seniors age in place with dignity. Her thoughtful, communityfocused approach is already energizing the team and building momentum for the future.

GIVING TOGETHER, SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY For many of us in Tahoe Donner – whether we’re retirees ourselves, caring for aging loved ones or simply looking ahead – this mission hits close to home. Your continued support of the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund helps us invest each year in incredible local organizations like Sierra Senior Services.

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 is administered as an affiliate fund of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 68-0416404. 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 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.

FOUNDING PARTNER

20

SEPTEMBER 18TH | 5PM TO 7PM Food Trucks | Live Performances | Local Art | Raffles | Free Games, Crafts & Face Painting | Downtown Shopping | Neighborhood Shuttles | Connect with Local Non-Profits, Special Districts & Service Providers

Visit: www.TownOfTruckee.gov/TruckeeBlockParty

2025 Tahoe Donner News PRINT.pdf

1

7/8/25

1:40 PM

Heavy-Duty Tree Service for Lake Tahoe’s Toughest Jobs HAVE ENOUGH INSURANCE FOR YOUR TAHOE HOME? Industry changes have left many without. Call your broker today and ask about your Water Damage Coverage.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

WATER MITIGATION AND DRYING

CY

MOLD REMEDIATION

CMY

K

When it comes to removing large or hazardous trees, precision and power matter. Estate Tree Service uses specialized heavy equipment to safely and efficiently handle the toughest jobs—without damaging your property or the surrounding forest.

[P] 530-386-3340 [E] sales@estatetreeservices.com estatetreeservices.com

CRAWLSPACE ENCAPSULATION RADON MITIGATION CALL US TODAY! 530-583-6653 (MOLD) WWW.TAHOEMOLDANDWATER.COM KINGS BEACH, CA

License Numbers: CA 960994, NV 0079127

CA 513623 | NV 33717B

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

21

THE REPORT

45-Day Notice: Proposed Architectural Standards Rule Change Pursuant to Tahoe Donner Covenants and Restrictions Article III, Section 7, modifications to rules and proposed new rules must go out for a 45-day member notification and comment period prior to the Board of Directors' consideration and approval.

Changes to the Tahoe Donner Association Architectural Standards (AS) Rule will be considered for action by the Board of Directors. The Board is expected to review a first draft, and possibly take action to adopt the proposed AS Rule, as presented here or with some modification, at a regular meeting of the Board on October 24, 2025.

The Board invites you to participate in the rule-making process by attending upcoming board meetings where the proposed rule is on the agenda (see Key Dates) and/or by submitting a written member comment on the proposed rule during the 45-day notification and comment period.

Background One of the design items regularly reviewed by the ASC before construction is siding material. Per the AS Rules, the ASC is authorized to consider approving or denying exceptions to the siding rules on a caseby-case basis. Under AS rule H.5: “Plywood or sheet siding exceeding the above 50% maximum may be allowed as an exception, on a case-by-case basis, on those sides not facing a street or the golf course only if: a) the design is in harmony with the street/golf course view side(s); and b) the plywood or sheet siding is properly coated or treated to minimize discoloration and deterioration.

The proposed changes to the out-of-date Architectural Standards (AS) siding rule result from member feedback during the permit submittal process over the past few years indicating a desire to permit and promote up-to-date fire-resistant home construction material, as well as guidance from the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors and the recently passed Board Resolution 2025-1 (Exhibit B).

22

Rule Change Purpose and Effects The existing AS Rule was adopted more than three decades ago, and its intent was to prohibit plywood/sheet-siding in favor of a real wood appearance. Changes in the quality of materials, such as Hardie Board, and improved aesthetic appeal, along with an increasing demand for enhanced fire resilience in home construction, necessitate slight adjustments to the existing rule. The purpose of the proposed AS Rule change is to replace, in small part, the outdated rule with a new siding rule designed to meet Tahoe Donner’s current and future needs. The proposed rule change will still allow the Architectural Standards Committee (ASC) to continue to evaluate each project on a case-by-case basis, working with members to achieve a mutually agreeable solution that balances existing siding standards, aesthetic harmony, fire resistance and construction quality.

Additionally, the rule change is intended to achieve the following outcome goals: • Update the AS siding rule to fit within the guidelines of Board of Directors Policy Resolution 2025-1 • Enhance and broaden the choices of available siding material that the ASC is able to approve • Promote member desire for fire-resistant home construction materials • Preserve the ASC’s authority over construction material approval • Preserve the purpose and intent of the original siding rule which was to discourage a sheet/plywood appearance • Support a long-term, sustainable, and equitable solution for balancing the desire of members for different siding materials while preserving the overall aesthetic standards within the Association

Key Dates September 1, 2025: The 45-day member notification and comment period begins.

September 26, 2025: Board of Directors meeting; receives and hears member comments on the proposed rules change.

October 24, 2025: Regular Board of Directors meeting to consider adopting the proposed rule changes with or without modifications.

Please submit your written comments at tahoedonner.com/45-day-notice-siding-rule, or US Mail: Tahoe Donner Association Attn: Timea Griset, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA. 96161.

To ensure the board of directors has time to review all member comments, written comments must be submitted by Oct. 17, 2025.

PROPOSED CHANGES TO ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS RULES POLICIES AND SIDING SECTIONS I. INTRODUCTION B. DESIGN POLICIES AND REVIEW: 2) POLICIES c) FORM AND CONTENT: All structures shall be of a size and use that is consistent with the C&Rs and AS Rules and the standards of the community. All structures and site improvements shall be designed to fit the topography of the lot. The styles, shapes, sizes, massing, and colors are to be of good proportions, well balanced, and appropriate to Tahoe Donner.

Elevations and designs that the ASC finds aesthetically incompatible with the physical site, adjoining properties, or the environment of the development will not be approved. The owner and designer are strongly encouraged to meet or exceed upto-date fire-resistant design, materials, and construction practices.

III. SPECIFIC BUILDING CONSTRUCTION H. EXTERIOR SPECIFICATION: 5) SIDING …“Plywood or sheet siding exceeding and/or other alternate materials exceeding the above 50% maximum may be allowed as an exception, on a caseby-case basis, only if on those sides not facing a street or the golf course only if: a) the design is in harmony with the street/golf course view side(s); and b) the plywood or sheet siding is properly coated or treated to minimize discoloration and deterioration. Grooved sheet siding will not be allowed.

CROSS COUNTRY PRE-SEASON CONDITIONING PROGRAM Join this fun six-week fall conditioning program designed to boost your fitness, technique, and strength so you’ll hit the trails feeling strong and confident this ski season. Sessions include stretching, strength training, interval work and cross country ski-specific technique instruction.

WHO: All ages 13+ and all ability levels welcome (basic fitness required) WHEN: Saturdays, Oct. 18 – Nov. 22 | 8:30–10AM WHERE: Alder Creek Adventure Center COST: Member $99 | Public $119

Don’t wait—spots fill quickly!

Sign-up today at tahoedonner.com/cross-country/programs-clinics

GOLF ABOVE IT ALL AN EXPERIENCE ONLY THE MOUNTAINS CAN OFFER

BOOK A TEE TIME IN ADVANCE TODAY

TAHOEDONNER.COM/BOOK-A-TEE-TIME

Proposed changes are indicated in red text.

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

23

THE REPORT

45-Day Notice: Proposed Architectural Standards ADU/JADU Rule Change Pursuant to Tahoe Donner Covenants and Restrictions Article III, Section 7, modifications to rules and proposed new rules must go out for a 45-day member notification and comment period prior to the Board of Directors' consideration and approval.

Changes to the Tahoe Donner Association Architectural Standards (AS) Rule will be considered for action by the Board of Directors. The Board is expected to review a first draft, and possibly take action to adopt the proposed AS Rule, as presented here or with some modification, at a regular meeting of the Board on October 24, 2025.

The Board invites you to participate in the rule-making process by attending upcoming board meetings where the proposed rule is on the agenda (see Key Dates) and/or by submitting a written member comment on the proposed rule during the 45-day notification and comment period.

Background Pursuant to Tahoe Donner Covenants and Restrictions Article III Section 7 “the board may, from time to time, propose, enact, amend rules and regulations of general application to the Owners of Separate Interests within the Properties.” Article III Section 7 (b) states, “…no association rule shall be adopted until the proposed rule or amendment thereof has been published to the members at least 45 days before the date when the board is scheduled to act on the proposal…” This notice is referred to as a (“45-Day Notice”) in the Tahoe Donner rulemaking process.

The First Restated Covenants and Restrictions (C&Rs) assign the Architectural Standards Committee (ASC) the authority to oversee architectural standards. The committee's goal is to maintain architectural consistency, quality, and harmony within the Tahoe Donner community. According to the authority granted in the C&Rs, the ASC, with a majority vote and the approval of the Board of Directors, can adopt, amend, or repeal Architectural Standards (AS) Rules.

These rules serve to interpret or implement the relevant provisions of the C&Rs, in accordance with Article III, Section 7b.

24

On January 1, 2020, the State of California passed AB 670 to address the need for affordable housing. This law over-rid prohibitions on ADUs in homeowners’ associations’ governing documents, and allowed an HOA to enact additional, reasonable restrictions on ADU/JADUs. In February 22, 2020 the Tahoe Donner Architectural Standards Rules were updated with Appendix B to define rules and restrictions for Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units.

law require a review of our rules to ensure compliance, and to require some updates to the existing rule.

Tahoe Donner Association was designed as a single-family residential area, and the peaceful enjoyment of properties is an important value for its members. These 2020 rules were designed to protect the peace and quiet as well as the look and feel of our community, while still complying with state law and its intended purpose. Maintaining our setbacks is particularly important in this mountain community where many lots are of limited size and where fire danger and heavy snowfall are key in considering the space between residences.

• To expand the maximum sizes for ADUs to align our rules with what is allowed by the State.

Because of recent developments in state law, Tahoe Donner Association formed an ADU Subcommittee, with the purpose of serving the ASC members and CSO staff as a source of advice for ADU standards for TDA, becoming informed in state and local ADU code changes and requirements and working in conjunction with HOA legal counsel to develop modifications to our ADU rules and make recommendations to the Board of Directors for the adoption of those modified rules.

The proposed change to the ADU rules is based on feedback from the ADU Subcommittee after having thoroughly reviewed all of TDA’s ADU rules in conjunction with HOA counsel’s legal option.

The ASC feels that these proposed rule changes are in alignment with state law changes to ADU requirements.

On April 7, 2025, the ADU Subcommittee met to review/draft/propose rule changes.

Rule Change Purpose and Effects The current ADU Rules were enacted over five years ago. However, changes in state

The purpose of the proposed ASC Rule change is to ensure that we are in compliance with changes in state and federal law.

Additionally, the proposed rule change aims to achieve the following outcomes: • Allow for both an ADU and a JADU on a single lot where it was previously restricted to only one ADU OR JADU per lot.

• To remove the 90-day grace period for applying for approval since the law is no longer new and ADUs have been allowed in TDA for over five years now.

The final development of the proposed rule change was presented to the ASC who voted to approve and forward to the Board of Directors. The proposed rule is now ready to be presented to the Board of Directors for its review and approval if the Board chooses to do so.

Key Dates September 1, 2025: The 45-day member notification and comment period begins.

September 26, 2025: Board of Directors meeting; receives and hears member comments on the proposed rules change.

October 24, 2025: Regular Board of Directors meeting to consider adopting the proposed rule changes with or without modifications.

Please submit your written comments at tahoedonner.com/45-day-notice-adu-jadu, or US Mail: Tahoe Donner Association Attn: Timea Griset, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA. 96161.

To ensure the board of directors has time to review all member comments, written comments must be submitted by Oct. 17, 2025.

PROPOSED CHANGES TO ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS ADU/JADU RULES

required for the lot. The number of cars permitted for the accessory dwelling and junior accessory dwelling unit tenants shall not exceed the available off- street parking spaces provided. ADU and JADU tenants shall be required to utilize the parking spaces provided.

DEFINITIONS California ADU Law shall mean Sections 65852.150, 65852.2 and 65852.22 of the California Government Code. ADU provisions in the California Government Code.

4.

THE FOLLOWING RULES APPLY TO ADUs AND JADUs: 1.

3.

One Quantity of ADU or JADU per Lot: Only One accessory dwelling unit (attached or detached) or and one junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) shall be permitted. may be constructed and/or used or occupied on any single-family residential lot.

Compliance with the Governing Documents: Any proposed accessory dwelling unit and junior accessory dwelling unit shall also comply with the requirements of the Governing Documents. The Governing Documents may be more restrictive than the Truckee Municipal Code, but shall not be applied in situations where the Architectural Standards Committee has determined that such application would unreasonably increase the cost to construct, effectively prohibit the construction of, or extinguish the ability to construct an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit consistent with the provisions of the California ADU Law. For certain common issues that may arise under the Governing Documents, the ASC shall follow the guidelines below in making a decision on an application for approval of an ADU or JADU.

3.2 Floor Area Limitation: An For parcels under 1 acre an ADU shall have no less than 150 sf and no more than 800 850 sf of fully enclosed floor area devoted to living purposes and a JADU shall have no more than 500 sf of fully enclosed floor area devoted to living purposes.

3.3 Parking: An Each ADU or JADU shall provide for one designated on-site parking space in addition to the 400 sf minimum parking paved on-site area

Proposed changes are indicated in red text.

6.

Unpermitted or Unapproved Accessory and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units: These rules shall not validate any existing ADU or JADUs that have not been permitted by the Town of Truckee and approved by the Tahoe Donner Association. To convert such a unit to a permitted and approved ADU or JADU, the applicant must meet the requirements of the Truckee Municipal Code and the Governing Documents, and the Town of Truckee must permit the unit and the Tahoe Donner ASC must approve the unit for it to be a legal unit.

Applicants with existing units must apply for permit and/or approval within 90 days of adoption of these rules. Unpermitted units that are found to be non-compliant after this period shall be subject to an enforcement process.

Serving Truckee/Lake Tahoe Residential • Commercial

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP CLEANLINESS & CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Interior and Exterior Specializing in Staining Wood Restoration Superior Finish Painting Remodels and New Construction

530.550.7938

PO Box 11107, Truckee, CA 96162 BONDED & INSURED • CA LIC #764916

Conditions and Variances: The ASC shall retain the right to impose reasonable conditions on its approval of an ADU or JADU, and to grant variances on a case-by-case basis, as provided for in the Governing Documents.

A FREE, ON-DEMAND, SHARED SHUTTLE SERVICE IN TRUCKEE + NORTH LAKE TAHOE

6:30AM-12AM DAILY

TAHOEDONNER.COM/TART

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

25

THE REPORT

2026 Fire Safety Property Inspection

To Take Place in the Spring of 2026 for All of Unit 1 (Lots 1-499), Portions of Unit 4 (Lots 234-643) and Portions of Unit 5 (Lots 416-555) BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA

Tahoe Donner Land Management staff would like to thank all members who have brought their properties into compliance with defensible space standards and continue to maintain them each year. The association continues to make great strides in creating and sustaining a fire-safe community.

Tahoe Donner utilizes various programs to ensure private properties remain in compliance with state laws, local ordinances and association Covenants and Restrictions (C&Rs).

2026 Inspection Cycle Properties will be assessed in the springtime of 2026 to provide the best and most accurate information for homeowners who need to complete maintenance that year.

If you would like to complete any work in the fall of 2025, please visit tahoedonner.com/defensible-space 26

to review guidelines for compliance.

Homeowners can also request an inspection at defensiblespacereport.org/tahoedonner.

If you are planning to perform any work in anticipation of an upcoming inspection, please submit an initial inspection request to receive clearance or a maintenance checklist. It is also recommended that second homeowners or part-time residents visit their properties as soon as conditions allow in the spring of 2026 to get a head start.

For the 2026 Inspection Cycle, all or portions of the following streets will be assessed: Skislope Way, Rhineland Avenue, Northwoods Boulevard, Norse Avenue, Davos Lane, Christie Lane, Ramshorn Street, Heidi Way, Swiss Lane, Innsbruck Avenue, Weisshorn Avenue, Bolzano Drive, Zermatt Drive, Baden Road, Bern Way and Bernese Lane.

How You Will be Notified As required by the association C&Rs, the information provided here serves as a written notice that inspections will occur in the spring of 2026 as soon as conditions allow, usually between the middle of May and the end of June. Inspections will occur between 8AM-5PM. Members whose homes are within the inspection zone will also receive an email stating that their property will be inspected as part of the 2026 program cycle.

Starting in Spring 2026, compliant property owners will be notified as inspections occur across approximately 1,000 properties. A Notice of Non-Compliance with inspection results will be sent to property owners requiring work to be completed by an established due date between the end of June and August 2026. Homeowners will be given 45 days to correct any issues or provide

a copy of an agreement with a contractor covering the scope of work required.

DEVELOPED + UNDEVELOPED LOTS

Rules + Guidelines Tahoe Donner residents should familiarize themselves with the complete rules and guidelines for defensible space inspection standards. Detailed guidelines can be found at tahoedonner.com/defensible-space.

Don’t wait until 2026 or your compliance inspection year. Homeowners should perform regular maintenance to ensure that defensible space projects are manageable each year. Now is a great time to begin tackling big items like limbing up trees and clearing brush as the weather begins to cool and waste removal options are still available.

Key Guidelines DEVELOPED LOTS

10 ft.

To review defensible space requirements, refer to tahoedonner.com/defensible-space and readyforwildfire.org.

Inspection Authority

6 ft.

No branches can hang within 6 feet of the ground for trees greater than 15 feet in height. Excessively dense tree cover must be thinned, which generally applies to trees around 10 inches in diameter or less that are growing without proper spacing from one another or growing under the canopy of larger trees.

Note: Staff will mark trees that need to be removed as homeowners need a permit to remove trees greater than 4 inches in diameter – measured 3 feet off the ground.

You may begin removing trees less than 4 inches in diameter – measured 3 feet off the ground – at any time and can save a lot of time and money by doing so now.

ft.

No branches within 10 feet of chimney, roof and eaves.

15 ft.

20

15

20 ft.

20

10 ft.

that each lot be maintained to prevent fire hazards. Failure to comply with these inspections may result in a hearing before the Covenants Committee and fines levied until the required work is completed.

15

ft.

5 ft.

10 ft.

ft. ft.

10 ft.

20 ft.

To Lot Line

Authority for these inspections comes from the state of California Public Resources Code 4291, Truckee Fire Protection District Ordinance 94-1 and Tahoe Donner Association C&Rs Article VIII, Section1 (a) iii and iv.

Update Your Contact Information To help make this process more efficient, please ensure that your contact information, current email(s) and phone number(s) are up to date. For condo associations, please list the president, manager or acting responsible party as the primary contact for shared properties. This can be done by emailing or calling Member Services at info@tahoedonner.com or (530) 587-9400.

Tahoe Donner works directly with members to ensure all private properties remain as fire safe and healthy as possible and the community continues to be a safe and beautiful place to live, work and enjoy for generations to come.

Visit tahoedonner.com/defensible-space or email defensiblespace@tahoedonner.com for more information regarding forestry and defensible space.

30 ft.

Lot Line

Firewood, lumber or any flammable material should be stacked 30 feet from the structure on your property only. Old, unused or decomposed firewood must be removed.

Firewood rounds cannot be left on the property; wood must be split and stacked neatly.

Green waste pile pickup ends Oct. 12, and servicing of yard waste carts ends mid-November. Plan now for your green waste disposal. Residents can visit keeptruckeegreen.org for additional services.

Areas of continuous brush must be broken up. There should be no brush under trees or within 10 feet of the outer limb of the tree, as well as no brush within 10 feet of the structure or anything attached to the structure. From 11 feet to 30 feet, clumps of brush can have a maximum diameter of 5 feet, with 20 feet of separation between clumps. From 31 feet to 100 feet, or the lot line (whichever comes first), clumps of brush can have a maximum diameter of 10 feet, with 15 feet of separation between clumps.

Defensible space maintenance should be conducted yearly. The C&Rs require

Green Waste Pickup Ends Oct. 12 Green waste pickup, which includes chipping piles, is managed by Truckee Fire Protection District through Measure T funding. Reservations are required for pickup and can be made online at truckeefire.org/greenwaste.

The program will end for the year on Oct. 12. Visit the website for details on what materials are eligible or ineligible for chipping and how to stack piles properly.

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

27

THE REPORT

Briefs TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER

Exciting Upgrades Coming Soon for Pools + Hot Tubs Starting Sept. 2, 2025 through midDecember, all pools and hot tubs at Trout Creek Rec Center will temporarily close for a comprehensive renovation to enhance the amenity experience. Tahoe Donner is updating the mechanical room, hydronic system, deck pavers around lap pool and drainage systems for all pools and hot tubs.

During this time: • The steam room, sauna, gym + fitness classes remain open.

• Aqua Fitness will temporarily move to the Northwoods Clubhouse pool on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays Sept. 2-13.

• The Northwoods Clubhouse pool will remain open daily from 11:30AM-5PM Sept. 2 - Oct. 10, conditions permitting.

• The outdoor playground at Trout Creek will remain open.

As a bonus, Tahoe Donner members with a valid Member ID or Resident Tenant Card can enjoy local discounted pricing at the Truckee-Donner Rec & Park District pool.

For additional information, visit tahoedonner.com/tcrc-pool-spa-renovations.

support staff and families are anticipated to attend, with the event taking place primarily on the Wild West uphill, Lower True Grit, Cinnamon Twist, Euer Valley Road, Pookers and Eastern Perimeter trails. While participation is closed to the general public, trail users are welcome to watch this exciting event. Please Note: Parking at Alder Creek Adventure Center (ACAC) may be impacted during this time. Additional event parking will be available at Downhill Ski Resort with shuttle service to the area.

Trail users seeking alternate routes during this time are encouraged to stop by Bikeworks at ACAC for recommendations.

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

Share Your Memories of the Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center Help us celebrate Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center's 40th Anniversary! We’re collecting historical photos to feature in Tahoe Donner News + Life, on our website, at the Alder Creek Adventure Center and more as we commemorate this monumental milestone in our community. If you have any historical images, materials, stories or other fun items, please send them for consideration to comdep@tahoedonner.com.

access to the silent auction, savory appetizers, a charcuterie table and a complimentary drink. Additional beverages will be available for purchase at two cash bars throughout the evening.

To nominate a community member, sponsor the event or purchase tickets, visit the event website at truckee.com/annual-truckeechamber-of-commerce-awards.

LOCAL NEWS

Don’t Miss the Truckee Community Block Party Thursday, Sept. 18 | 5-7PM in Historic Downtown Truckee The Town of Truckee invites you to the free Truckee Community Block Party, an afternoon to celebrate our town with food trucks, live music and performances, art displays, raffles, kids’ crafts, outdoor games and more. Meet neighbors, connect with local nonprofits, special districts and service providers and enjoy a vibrant afternoon of community fun. Spanish interpretation and resources will be available. Neighborhood shuttles will also be available. For more information, visit townoftruckee.gov/calendar.

BIKEWORKS

The NICA Northern Nevada State Championship Race Returns to Tahoe Donner Saturday, Oct. 18 - Sunday, Oct. 19 Tahoe Donner is once again hosting the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) Northern Nevada State Championship Race at the TD Trail System on Oct. 18-19. As a 501(c)(4), Tahoe Donner is honored to utilize its resources for the benefit of community initiatives. NICA (nationalmtb.org) is a national nonprofit organization with regional programs that help youth develop strength, resilience and character, while pedaling with a supportive and inclusive community.

The race is for middle and high school students on teams from Northern Nevada, North Tahoe, South Tahoe and Mammoth.

Approximately 350 racers, 200 coaches and 28

LOCAL NEWS

Top of The Town: Truckee’s 72nd Annual Awards Celebration Friday, Sept. 26 | 5-7:30PM at Alder Creek Adventure Center Join the Truckee Chamber of Commerce for a vibrant evening that celebrates the spirit of Truckee, where local businesses, community members and changemakers come together to honor the people and places that make our town exceptional. This year’s celebration will feature an exciting award presentation, delicious bites, refreshing drinks and a lively silent auction, all set against the beautiful setting of the Alder Creek Adventure Center.

It’s a night you won’t want to miss!

Tickets are now on sale. Tickets for Top of the Town are $60 for chamber members and their guests and $80 for non-members.

Your ticket includes entry to the event,

LAST CHANCE TO SEND IN YOUR BEST PHOTOS!

2025 PHOTO CONTEST Winners Receive a Gift Certificate to The Lodge Restaurant & Pub

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.

Brian Fowler (2024 Photo Contest Submission)

12710 Northwoods Blvd Suite 1. Truckee, California Troy Deibert (530) 386-6635 donnertahoeflooring.com Call for an appointment.

IS FALL THE BEST SEASON?

CCL CA #845690

Reliable local contact for your short term rental Complete short term rental management, Avoid fines Professional full service caretaking for your home Project Management ▪ Contractors ▪ House Cleaners FREE ESTIMATE

SIMPLE. LOCAL. RELIABLE. READY www.managehome.net 530.500.2777

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

29

THE REPORT

Board Meeting Recaps Special Board of Directors Meeting: Member Appeal Hearing July 21, 2025

The board considered a member appeal request and discussed legal and contractrelated matters.

Regular Board of Directors Meeting July 25, 2025

Q2 Financial Review The Director of Finance updated the board on Q2 financial results, including visitation reports for June.

Proposed Architectural Standards ADU/JADU Rules Change 45-Day Notice Publication Authorization The board received a presentation on the proposed changes to the Architectural Standards ADU/JADU Rule and moved to authorize the publication of a 45-Day Notice for the proposed Architectural Standards ADU/JADU Rules Change (Exhibit A), including all necessary supporting materials.

Motion passed 5-0.

Proposed Architectural Standards Rules Change to the Policies and Siding Sections 45-Day Notice Publication Authorization The board received a presentation on the proposed changes to the Policies and Siding Sections of the Architectural Standards Rule and authorized the publication of a 45-day Notice for the proposed changes to the Policies and Siding Sections (Exhibit A), including all necessary supporting materials.

The motion passed 4-1 (Koenes, no).

Emergency Adoption of Updated Fine Schedule The board received a presentation on Assembly Bill 130 (AB 130), which was recently signed into law, amending Civil Code 5580 and 5588 regarding HOA fine schedules and enforcement procedures. The board adopted the Administrative Resolution 202516, Emergency Adoption of Fine Schedule, as presented. Motion passed 5-0.

30

Management Update • Jon Mitchell, Director of Capital Projects and Facilities, provided an update on the Downhill Ski Lodge project.

• Miguel Sloan, Director of Operations, Lindsay Hogan, Director of Communications and Member Services, and Mike Peters, Director of Food & Beverage, each reported on activities and outcomes related to the Fourth of July Holiday week.

Budget Development Process: 10-Year and 20-Year Capital Plans Review and Discussion The board reviewed the initial draft updates to the 20-Year Significant Capital Projects Plan and provided feedback to the staff.

The review of the 10-Year project plan was deferred to a future board meeting.

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.

Upcoming Board Meetings Friday, Sept. 26, 2025 – Regular Board Meeting + Budget Session #2: Capital + Operating Funds October 14, 2025 at 5:30PM – Special Budget Meeting Session #3: Approval October 17, 2025 – Special Budget Meeting Session #4, if necessary Friday, Oct. 24, 2025 – Regular Board Meeting

Upcoming Committee Meetings Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025 – Elections Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025 – Trails + Open Space Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025 – Architectural Standards Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025 – Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025 – Long-Range Planning Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025 – Finance Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025 – Architectural Standards Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025 – Covenants Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025 – Elections Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025 – Trails + Open Space To get meeting details, including Zoom meeting registration information and time, please send an email to executiveassistant@tahoedonner.com.

ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE CHAIRS 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 Long-Range Planning | Jerry Meek lrpc@tahoedonner.com Tahoe Donner Giving Fund | Toni Moore tdgf@tahoedonner.com Trails + Open Space | Peter Sawyer tos@tahoedonner.com

Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 – Regular Board Meeting Board meeting dates subject to change.

Visit tahoedonner.com for dates.

Homes on the Rise The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed and approved the following plans in July 2025.

UNIT/LOT

ADDRESS

SQ. FT.

PROJECT

08/537

11514 3,031 Kitzbuhel Road

House/ Garage

05/513

11851 3,824 Skislope Way

House/ Garage

06/458

15794 3,153 Alder Creek Road

House/ Garage

peregrine defensible space

©VanceFox.com

Defensible Space Tree Service for Residential & Commercial Properties

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

530 582.7428

10800 Pioneer Trail, Unit 3,

CA#1091772

Yard Cleanups • Tree Pruning/Removal • Brush Clearing

Truckee 96161 office@bassettflooring.com CA LIC #345494

at the Pioneer Commerce Center in Truckee.

949.973.0052 peregrinedefensiblespace.com

LEARN MORE AT TAHOEDONNER.COM

31

Where in the World

is Tahoe Donner News + Life?

Edfu, Egypt Dan and Judy Wettstein at The Edfu Temple of Horus located on the west bank of the Nile.

Kauaʻi, Hawai’i Andy and Andrea Oddo took a trip to Kauaʻi for their 55th wedding anniversary.

Baja California Sur, Mexico

Livermore, California Left to right: Vince Brennan, Melissa Mecham, winemaker Noah Taylor, Tamara Anderson, winemaker Robert Taylor, wine marketer Salome Taylor, Grace Chou, Sonya Retzlaff-Huggins, Susan Horst, Stephanie Blume, Nina Krommenhoek, Jenny Moss and Susie Simonpietri enjoying the Retzlaff Vineyards (certified-organic) and Winery Futures Celebration.

32

Patty Chin, Barb Wilkinson, Loretta Mullins, Claudette Landry, Jayne Hahin and Marina Phillips (left to right) made their way to Mexico to keep playing pickleball in the warm weather after a wonderful season at the Tahoe Donner Tennis + Pickleball Center.

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.

Alpenglow atItAltitude Let It Snow! Let Snow! LetAwaits!

It Snow!

NEW TO MARKET!

SOLD - 4 DAYS ON MARKET! Listed and Sold by Elder Group Tahoe

13701HANSEL AVENUE.COM 4 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 3,824 SF LISTED FOR $1,925,000

14596SWISSL ANE.COM 4 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 2,953 SF LISTED AND SOLD FOR $1,895,000 CLOSE OF ESCROW: AUGUST 21, 2025

Tahoe Donner

SOLD – 29 DAYS ON MARKET!

2025 Second Quarter Market Report Single Family Homes Sold

22

22

2025

2024

12 8

8

7 3

11118BOLZANOWAY.COM 4 BEDS | 2.5 BATHS | 2,746 SF LISTED AND SOLD FOR $1,495,000 CLOSE OF ESCROW: AUGUST 6, 2025

0 $0 $1,000,000

$1,000,001 $1,500,000

$1,500,001 $2,000,000

Over $2,000,000

Information gathered from TSMLS 7/8/2025

Experience Exceptional Results with Elder Group Tahoe Real Estate!

Real Trends Verified 2025

National Real Estate Ranking USA: Top ½% CA: Transactions – 45th

Alison Elder

530.582.8103 alison@eldergrouptahoe.com eldergrouptahoe.com

© 2025 Elder Group Tahoe. All rights are reserved by Elder Group Tahoe, and content may not be reproduced, downloaded, disseminated, published, or transferred in any form or by any means, except with the prior written permission of Elder Group Tahoe. All information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate. CA DRE License #01399851

TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION 11509 NORTHWOODS BLVD. TRUCKEE, CA 96161

neeruaCraig M madreMacLeod mraW

giaMaureen rC doeWarmerdam LcaM

Chris Carroll & Ally Raber

6140-(530)414-4151 316 )035(

1514-(530) 414)0613-0416 35(

(530) 386-0847

netsriDoug K ioSchroeder S

guoKirsten D redeorhcSoi S

moc.ytlaercmacleod@dicksonrealty.com noskcid@madremrawm moc.ytmwarmerdam@dicksonrealty.com laernoskcid@doelcamc 3744301DRE# 0 #ER02066017 D 7106602DRE# 0 #ER01034473 D

5057(408) -782 )5 768-2742 77( 2472-(775) 867 )8 287-7505 04( mocdschroeder@dicksonrealty.com .ytlaernoskcid@iosk moc.ytlaernksoi@dicksonrealty.com oskcid@redeorhcsd 3892712DRE# 0 #ER01955249 D 9425591DRE# 0 #ER02172983 D

info@dicksonrealty.com moc.ytlaernoskcid@ofni CA DRE#01417710 01771410#ERD AC

Kane Schaller (530) 448-3792

info@tahoetruckee.com DRE# 01062001 / 01970759

kschaller@dicksonrealty.com DRE# 01316059

Heather Fairbairn

Jacklyn Wells

(812) 322-2218

(530) 320-0855

hfairbairn@dicksonrealty.com DRE#02008465

jwells@dicksonrealty.com DRE# 00812282