Tahoe Donner NEWS + LIFE
Ashlee, Sibling
Amenity Access: Verification Reminder
Board Meeting Recap
Correction: In the September 2025 issue of Tahoe Donner News + Life, the list of street names in the 2026 Fire Safety Property Inspection story should have included Chapelle Place, and incorrectly referred to Davos Lane when it is actually Davos Drive. We apologize for any confusion.
EDITORIAL + PRODUCTION TEAM
Lindsay Hogan Drew Deurlington Carlynne Fajkos Cynthia Cendreda Jesus Antonio Vazquez
SENIOR MANAGEMENT
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
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.
President’s Welcome
As fall colors arrive and our thoughts turn to snow, Tahoe Donner is moving forward with new investments in community safety, enhanced member benefits, and strengthened partnerships to protect our natural surroundings.
Improving Community Safety
Earlier this year, we worked with the town to create a public-private partnership to conduct a comprehensive Tahoe Donner emergency evacuation study. Thanks to a parcel tax reimbursement agreement authorized in September by the Truckee Town Council, this project will be fully funded by public monies, with no additional cost to Tahoe Donner homeowners.
With help from expert consultants, the study will recommend strategies to improve existing evacuation routes, identify and eliminate evacuation hazards, and improve emergency signage and communication. It will also explore potential new and more affordable near-term options for adding a third evacuation route in addition to Northwoods Boulevard and Alder Creek Road.
Enhancing Member Benefits
Starting on January 1, we are making it more welcoming, more affordable, and more enjoyable for members to spend time at our Tahoe Donner’s private amenities. With the 2026 budget, we will eliminate the annual recreation fee and member private amenity daily access fees. Instead, your annual assessment will include member access to Trout Creek, the Beach Club, and the other private amenities.
Each property may receive up to four Member Photo ID Cards, which may be assigned to owners and eligible owner family members. For those with larger families, additional Member Photo ID Cards will be available for purchase.
Reflecting our renewed commitment to excellent member benefits and increased
member enjoyment, our goal is to prioritize and promote member recreation at the private amenities. That is why we are removing private amenity entry barriers for members. It is also why we will protect your member enjoyment by introducing robust new measures to prevent crowding by non-members.
Truckee River Day
On October 19, the Truckee River Watershed Council is holding its 30th annual Truckee River Day, a regional volunteer day dedicated to protecting and restoring our local watershed. Each year, Tahoe Donner celebrates the Watershed Council and our continuing commitment to environmental stewardship by supporting Truckee River Day events in our community.
With the recent formation of a 20-year Tahoe Donner-Watershed Council recreation and restoration improvement partnership and the launch of joint restoration projects in Euer Valley, this year’s Truckee River Day has taken on even greater significance.
In addition to our traditional volunteer pine tree sapling planting, we are expanding our Truckee River Day involvement this year to include a second volunteer opportunity in connection with the Watershed Council’s larger Euer Valley restoration project. For more information and to register, please visit TruckeeRiverWC.org.
I hope you will join me as a Truckee River Day volunteer. I look forward to seeing you at the Fall Festival on October 11. And with construction now entering its final phases, I will be pleased to welcome you to the new Ski Lodge when it opens in December.
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
Kevin Kelly (Header/Tree Planting Event)
Photo Contest 2025 Member 2025
We are excited to present the winners of our annual photo contest! From creatures and adventurers big and small to breathtaking landscapes and intimate neighborhood views, thank you for capturing the essence of Tahoe Donner. Every year, your creative spirit reminds us of the beauty and wonder of this mountain community we are lucky to call home. This year, we received almost 200 photo submissions and space only allows us to print a few of our members’ snapshots, but we’ve highlighted some of our favorites. Thank you again to all who participated. Keep capturing the magic!
As per the contest rules, the winning photographer in each category receives a gift certificate for $100 to The Lodge Restaurant & Pub and a $100 gift certificate to Pizza on the Hill.
DILLON OSLEGER
DECEMBER 2024
Shoulder Season on Donner Lake Rim Trail – A Self Portrait
BRENNAN MAYER
JANUARY 2025
Willa, the Miniature Dachshund, Plays in the Snow After a Storm
ERIK LOBOSCHEFSKY
SEPTEMBER 2025
Two Deer in the Yard, “Trimming” the Willows –One Was a Bit Camera Shy
KATIE LARSON
SEPTEMBER 2024
The Milky Way Over the Truckee River
AUGUST 2025
Searching for Critters
Under the Nature Trail
KRISHNA KUMAAR
NATARAJAN
JULY 2025
Beautiful Sunset Over the East River Street Bridge to Soak in After a Run
NEIL BRYDON
JULY 2025
A Flicker Woodpecker by Alder Creek Trail Returning to the Nest to Feed Some Hungry and Noisy Chicks
MEGAN DELEHANTY MAY 2025
A Quiet and Peaceful Beach Beneath a Chaotic Sky Above Donner Lake
CHRIS ROCHEFORT
Biking
Mountain
in Tahoe Donner Under the Northern Lights
NEIL BRYDON
AUGUST 2025
A Misty Sunrise at Prosser After Recent Thunderstorms
GLENN RODRIGUEZ
JULY 2025
Sunset Cocktails Near Independence Lake
RICHARD ANDRS AUGUST 2025
A Silent Reflection on Donner Lake
AUGUST 2025
A Summer Moment
–
RYAN BURGESS
of Courage
Hesitation Became Flight Into Cool Waters
BRIAN FOWLER JUNE 2025
Night Sky Aurora Above Tahoe Donner Downhill
PAUL ANASTASOPOULOS
JANUARY 2025
Old Man Winter’s Tree in Bennett Flat Meadow
ROXANA ROJAS
MAY 2025
Peekaboo Near Skislope
JULIE SWAN
AUGUST 2025
Julie’s Niece, Ryan, Enjoyed Donner and Her First-Ever Lake Day
JAMES HELTON JULY 2025
Early Morning Sun Over Donner Lake
KATIE LARSON JULY 2025
Old Snow Plow Train Blades in Downtown Truckee
CRAIG VON CHANCE
JANUARY 2025
A New Year’s Snowshoe Hike on the Donner Lake Rim Trail
CINDY TUCEY JANUARY 2025
A New Year’s Day Lesson and Panorama of Hastings Trail with Magnificent Views
MIKE GURNARI JUNE 2025
Carpenter Valley
FOWLER FEBRUARY 2025
Morning
VERA FUAD SEPTEMBER 2024
Stunning Sunset at Donner Lake
BRIAN
Yoga Coyote in Tahoe Donner
Utilizing Partnerships in Utilities Management
Truckee Donner Public Utilities District (TDPUD) and Tahoe Donner Remain Fervent Partners in Community Safety and Infrastructure
BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA
The community-powered, not-for-profit Truckee Donner Public Utilities District (TDPUD) provides reliable, high-quality utility and other services to the greater Truckee area while managing District resources in a safe, open, responsible and environmentally sound manner at the lowest practical cost. Established in 1927, TDPUD manages electric and water utilities for roughly 16,000 customers, almost 90% of whom are residential properties, and nearly 14,500 service connections for 100% groundwater sourced water over 11 wells, 43 pressure zones and along 230+ miles of pipe.
Operating continuously at high elevation through extreme weather conditions, including frequent severe winter storms and wildfire threats, TDPUD’s capacity to maintain critical infrastructure, respond to outages and support emergency response while balancing affordability, reliability and sustainability is demonstrative of their commitment and values. Their continued work and partnership with Tahoe Donner have been essential in enhancing the community’s safety and infrastructure.
“Practice Like You Play”
TDPUD Strategic Plan + Current Initiatives
In the July 25, 2025, regular board meeting, TDPUD General Manager Brian Wright presented current operations on behalf of the District. Established in 2021, TDPUD maintains and continuously updates a strategic plan with overarching goals related to financial stability and resiliency, environmental stewardship, customer and community engagement, modernization and value enhancement, and inclusivity. Its current initiatives include community broadband, service reliability and safety, netcarbon reduction and local watershed stewardship.
Additionally, TDPUD continually evaluates its emergency response capabilities to ensure preparedness for small and large events. The District has recently taken on a new project to develop a formal incident command and emergency operations response (EOC) protocol that includes staff training, professional development and investment into infrastructure to improve EOC operations. With a “practice like you play” approach, the District incorporates daily issues and responses into the larger plans, protocols and execution that enhance overall emergency preparedness.
2025 Tahoe Donner Electric + Water Utility Projects
While TDPUD conducts ongoing activities throughout the Truckee area, several significant projects are currently underway in collaboration with Tahoe Donner.
Wildfire Mitigation + Hardening of the Overhead Electrical System
Extensive research, studies and surveys were conducted to determine whether or not to transfer Tahoe Donner’s electrical system underground. Overall, system hardening and other measures for wildfire mitigation along Northwoods Boulevard were determined to be the most impactful and cost-effective approaches to enhancing utilities-related community safety.
In 2025, TDPUD worked extensively with Tahoe Donner to synchronize vegetation management, including clearing limbs, brush and other debris away from poles at the ground level and overhead. Additionally, a new pilot program is underway to replace wooden electrical poles with non-flammable, stronger and more resilient ductile iron poles and install fiberglass/composite crossarms and covered conductors. TDPUD has also recently updated its policies to include improved data-driven strategies on pre-emptive power shutoff during localized high-fire and highweather risk events.
The electric crew working on a pole replacement project.
Courtesy of TDPUD (Header); Martin Gollery (Electric Crew, Water Crew)
Northwoods Pipeline + Ski Run Tank Replacements
Tahoe Donner comprises over 40% of TDPUD’s water service demand, but only had a single pipeline running up Northwoods Boulevard and two pump stations to serve the entire subdivision. A single pipeline for the large service area was of significant concern for the District. The recent completion of the Joe Aguera pump station and Trout Creek pipeline projects added a pump
Safety and resiliency remain top priorities for both TDPUD and Tahoe Donner. This continued collaboration ensures that both the District and the association can prioritize critical projects to sustain infrastructure. As the projects listed continue to progress, TDPUD and the association will continue to update property owners and residents on the impacts and timeline. For more information, visit tdpud.org
Halloween Fun
Twisted Tales From Truckee Tahoe
BY JANICE OBERDING | INTRO BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA
There’s something fun, freaky and altogether fascinating about macabre tales and historic hauntings that send chills down your spine. It’s especially during this time of year –when the sun hangs low on the horizon, when streetlamps cast ominous shadows, when groves of lustrous Aspens shrivel into a tangled mess of wiry and twisted webs, and weathered stone edifices seem to bellow and bulge with discontent – that your skin tingles at the mere mention of ghosts. It’s no wonder Lake Tahoe’s rich history, Native American and pioneer influence and rugged landscapes serve as the ideal backdrop for so many salacious and spooky stories.
Independent historian and author Janice Oberding has made it her life’s work to research and transcribe ghostly or ghastly legends and lore from historic regions across the West, including Nevada, Oregon and most recently California. Her book, Haunted Lake Tahoe, details many of these exciting tales originating right here in Truckee. The following is a featured article by Oberding, originally published in 2021 on TahoeGuide.com. Read on to ignite your fright with these thrilling tales from the Tahoe basin.
It’s that time of year. Pumpkin spice is queen of everything from cupcakes to lattes. The last long dog days of summer are finally behind us. And that brings us to Halloween, ranked just behind Thanksgiving and Christmas as the nation’s favorite holiday. Statistically, more candy is sold during the last week of October than at any other time of the year. Think of all those little trick-ortreaters in their scary costumes, and you’ll know why this is.
Candy and pumpkin spice latte aside, Halloween is when ghosts claim the spotlight. But ghosts don’t suddenly start appearing in October. As any ghost research investigator will tell you, ghosts are with us every day and night. And they are everywhere. The Tahoe Truckee area is not immune to hauntings.
The Tragic Donner Party
Our region’s best-known ghosts are probably those of the tragic Donner Party. Starving and stranded by heavy snowfall in the winter of 1846, they did the unthinkable – they resorted to cannibalism. The horror they endured may be the reason for ghost activity here. Sightings of Tamsen Donner [matriarch of the Donner family] and other members of the Donner Party regularly occur at the site of their encampment at Donner Memorial State Park’s Emigrant Trail Museum. Over the years, many campers have reported seeing the ghostly Tamsen as she wanders through the darkness.
Described as glowing and shadowy, she vanishes as quickly as she appears. Naysayers can put this down to a trick of light or overworked imagination. And perhaps it is, but there is also the ghostly bewhiskered man who is sometimes seen in broad daylight or dusk in and around the museum. He appears to be so lifelike that some who’ve encountered him don’t realize he is a ghost until he walks through the wall.
The Blizzard King
It isn’t only humans that can be ghosts. The ghostly Samoyed, Rex, is said to roam an area around Truckee’s Cottonwood Restaurant, once known as Hilltop Lodge, where he was kenneled. Known as The Blizzard King, for his and his sled team’s help in rescuing stranded travelers, Rex prefers to make his appearances on snowy nights. He is with his beloved handler, or he is alone. Either way, you’ll know he’s nearby when you hear his ghostly barking.
Ma Spinelli
All is silent at Truckee’s Old Jail Museum during the day, but things change once the sun goes down. Juanita “Ma” Spinelli, the first woman to be executed by the State of California, cooled her heels for a time here with other members of her gang. Some paranormal investigators have said that if you listen carefully, you may hear the cackling of the cold-blooded Spinelli as she shouts orders to her gang. Is she the shadowy dark figure seen in the jail? The odds are that it’s [notorious gangster] Baby Face Nelson, who also spent cell time here.
Amanda Birchenough
George Whittell Jr.
In Incline Village, Nevada, Thunderbird Lodge stands as a testament to what an enormous bankroll can do for you. George Whittell Jr. [the son of a San Francisco real estate and railroad tycoon] built this summer home on the lake’s shore in 1936. Although he died in 1969, he’s still here. Ghost hunters have investigated the lodge numerous times, concluding that the ghostly Whittell still oversees his former home.
A ghost hunter who spoke negatively about Whittell learned this the hard way when a ghostly hand gave her a shove. He’s always up for a good time. That old-time music and raucous laughter are only Whittell and his ghostly cronies partying all night in the card house.
Little Girl Lost
The Hellman-Erhman Mansion Museum in Sugar Pine Point State Park in Tahoma was the home [sic] of a little girl who drowned in the lake while visiting the Hellmans many years ago. She appears on moonless nights when the sky is dark and star-strewn, a luminous little girl forlornly wandering the shore. Call to her, and she will disappear into the water. The lake has claimed the lives of many.
Hermit of Emerald Bay
Another of [the lake’s] ghostly drowning victims is Captain Richard Barter, the hermit of Emerald Bay. Barter perished in a dreadful storm on a long-ago October night in 1873. His body was never recovered. This hasn’t stopped his ghost from rising out of the lake on fog-shrouded nights and strolling along the shoreline.
Haunting at Cal Neva
Do ghosts haunt several locations? Apparently, they do. The beautiful blonde actress Marilyn Monroe died mysteriously in Los Angeles in 1962. Besides all the obvious places, Monroe haunts the old Cal Neva Lodge (currently closed for renovations) in Crystal Bay, Nevada. According to those who’ve seen them, Monroe is there with singer Frank Sinatra, all glittery and glamorous and still partying in the showroom, decades after they died. And as they hoist one ghostly glass of bubbly after another, they’re probably wishing us all a happy Halloween. I’d bet my next bag of candy corn that it’s so.
About the Author
Janice Oberding, a resident of Reno, Nevada, has written numerous books on Nevada's history, true crime, unusual occurrences, and hauntings. In addition to Haunted Lake Tahoe, she has authored such works as The Big Book of California Ghost Stories, Haunted Nevada and Haunted Nevada City. She speaks on these subjects throughout the region and teaches the popular courses Ghost Hunting 101 and Nevada's Quirky Historical Facts for the community education program at Truckee Meadows Community College.
Fun fact: Oberding is one of only a few people who have spent an entire night at Alcatraz and worked as a consultant and historian for the Alcatraz episode of the SyFy channel’s hit show Ghost Hunters. View Oberding’s full volume of work on amazon.com.
JULY + AUGUST SEPTEMBER
Budget Creation + Finance Committee Review Detail Meetings + Reviews Final Budget Review + Approval
OCTOBER
Strategic Plan Guidance
JUNE 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.
OPEN BUDGET SESSIONS
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
Restoring Nature, Restoring Hope
BY EBEN SWAIN, TRUCKEE RIVER WATERSHED COUNCIL PROJECT DIRECTOR OF RESTORATION
Join Us for Truckee River Day!
When: Oct. 19, 9AM-2PM
Where: Multiple project sites across the Truckee River watershed!
Sign Up: truckeeriverwc.org
Last year alone, 300 passionate volunteers came out in person to work at a dozen restoration sites on Truckee River Day. They put their hands in the dirt and boots in the water and restored Coldstream Canyon, Hoke Meadow and the Truckee River Wildlife Area along the river. We hope you’ll join us this year for the 30th annual edition of this great community event.
Volunteer Wish List
25 Ambassadors Over the Next Twelve Months: Invite 10 of your friends to a one-hour informational River Talk by TRWC.
10 Adopt-a-Stream Team Leaders:
To lead important biological and chemical monitoring at various streams within the Truckee River watershed.
20 New Truckee River Day Group Leaders:
To lead volunteers in the field on our project sites each year in October to help with planting, mulching, repairing, and restoring.
Get Involved!
There are many ways to get involved with supporting efforts toward maintaining a sustainable community where nature and humanity thrive together:
• Attend river talks to stay informed of past and present threats to the Truckee River Watershed and learn how you can protect and restore it.
• Participate in the Adopt-A-Stream program to monitor water quality in Tahoe Donner’s creeks and streams using fun and easy-to-learn scientific techniques.
• On Truckee River Day, help our ecosystem by planting native plants and trees, stabilizing streambanks and improving habitat!
Additionally, attend other fun events like the River Breakfast in May to get to know a team of like-minded and dedicated environmental stewards in your community.
To sign up for our e-news and learn more about TRWC’s work and partnerships, visit truckeeriverwc.org.
One of the most rewarding parts of our jobs at the Truckee River Watershed Council (TRWC) is transforming our collective worries about our environment into optimism. We’ve been on the ground making real progress this summer and fall, and it’s happening right now. We are wrapping up construction in Euer Valley (photo below), in Coldstream Canyon and many other projects that help prevent catastrophic wildfires, capture the snow melt to recharge the groundwater and restore meadows to support wildlife. These are the great moments in the field when we can share how our favorite places are being protected and restored.
In our policy work, we are committed to increasing water releases out of the dams at Prosser, Stampede and Boca to improve flows for miles of stream, thereby enhancing habitats for fish and birds so their numbers can increase.
Prosser Creek Restoration
Large reaches of Prosser Creek in Euer Valley are healthy and well-functioning, but there are several sections in need of restoration. TRWC and Tahoe Donner will restore a reach of the creek near Coyote Crossing. This project will improve the in-stream habitat, protect the stream banks and improve the water quality of Prosser Creek.
The image above shows how we’re utilizing equipment in Euer Valley to restore stream and meadow habitat. TRWC is facilitating the restoration with the help of Wildscape Engineering and Tahoe Donner Association, with outcomes expected for improved habitat and water quality.
Sites (left to right): Boca Wildlife Area, Coldstream Canyon, Martis Wildlife Area
Court
Leve (Background); Nancy Wallis (Boca); Amie Quirarte (Coldstream)
Randy Braun (Martis); Eben Swain (Euer Valley Project)
Buzz The
LOCAL ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, DINING + MORE
Creepin’ It Real
If and when I am in a position to occupy a place as the apparition of my former living self, I like to think I’d be a benevolent spirit, a happy ghost if you will, but with a wicked sense of humor. “I’m sorry, were you trying to sleep? Might I help lull you off to dreamland with the stochastic drip of the bathroom faucet? Perhaps you’d like me to chase the cat across the house. It seems your foot dangling freely off the side of the bed is in need of a good tickle.” I’d simply be the best at being the absolute worst, because if you’ve got it, haunt it. Am I right?
Speaking of hauntings, esteemed Nevada-based author and independent historian Janice Oberding “creeps it real” with her numerous books written about Nevada, California and Oregon’s macabre history, true crime, unusual occurrences and hauntings. She’s made it her life’s work to transcribe all the ghostly and ghastly legends and lore of historic regions across the West. Turn to page 10 to read just a few of these stories from in and around Truckee and Lake Tahoe’s spookiest landmarks.
Ghouls Night Out
It may feel like a ghost town during this time of year, but I can assure you, there is plenty to freak out (in a good way!) about. The 14th Annual Fall Festival is just around the corner on Saturday, Oct. 11. As per usual, this favorite community gathering promises to be the feel-good event of the season, with classic festivities like a pumpkin patch, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting and more. New this year, teens (ages 16+) and adults can try their hand at axe throwing! You never know when such a skill might prove incredibly useful. (Maybe preparing for a zombie apocalypse?)
Kids in costume can receive a complimentary gift on arrival and adults can enjoy a bevy of refreshing beverages, including local brews and wine. The devil’s in the details, so be sure to learn more and purchase tickets in advance at tahoedonner.com/fall-festival
Scary good BOGO deals for members with active Member ID Cards start Oct. 15 and run through Nov. 25 at Pizza on the Hill and The Lodge
Restaurant & Pub. Check out all details, seasonal hours, menus and more online at tahoedonner.com/dining
Tahoe Literary Festival
Shifting momentarily away from all the tantalizing fun in Tahoe Donner, the Tahoe Literary Festival returns to Tahoe City Oct. 10-11. This annual celebration of the arts and literature highlights emerging and well-established voices within the community through authors’ panels, open mic nights, short story and poetry competitions and more!
With events held at various locations and times over the course of the weekend, the festival will culminate with an author’s panel with New York Timesbestselling author Katy Hays and New York Times- and USA Today-bestselling author Jill Shalvis at the Tahoe Art Haus, a book-signing and social at the Boatworks Mall and a singer-songwriter showcase with the Tahoe Institute of Natural Science Co-founder and Executive Director Will Richardson at Tahoe Wine Collective. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be inspired by Lake Tahoe’s wealth of literary talent. Visit tahoelitfest.com for complete details.
Amenity Closing Dates
The following amenities will be closing soon until next season:
Beach Club Marina – Closing Oct. 5
Bikeworks – Closing Oct. 19
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
Tahoe Donner amenities
John Rablin – The ski jump at the Hilltop Lodge
Obi Kaufman presents at the Tahoe Literary Festival. Courtesy of the Tahoe Literary Festival.
October
1
Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse
See page 19
5
Rooted in Groundwork Horse Workshop at Equestrian Center tahoedonner.com/events
8
Release Your Fascia to Improve Your Seat at Equestrian Center tahoedonner.com/events
River Talk with Truckee River Watershed Council at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/events
11
14th Annual Fall Festival at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/fall-festival
14
Budget Development Session at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/board-meetings
15
Member BOGO Deals Start at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials
Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse
See page 19
17
Budget Development Session at Northwoods Clubhouse
If needed tahoedonner.com/board-meetings
Member BOGO Deals Start at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials
Northern Nevada High School
Individual Tournament at Tennis + Pickleball Center Through Oct. 18
18
Winter Hiring Fair at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/events
NICA Northen Nevada State Championship Bike Race at Alder Creek Adventure Center
Through Oct. 19
See page 28
19
30th Annual Truckee River Day
See page 14
24
Regular Board Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/board-meetings
Thurdays
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
NFL Dining Specials at The Lodge Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials
Fridays 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Free Family Movie Night at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/ family-movie-night
Sundays 5, 12, 19, 26
NFL Dining Specials at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials
Mondays 6, 13, 20, 27
NFL Dining Specials at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials
Tuesdays 7, 14, 21, 27
American Mah Jongg Club at Alder Creek Adventure Center
See page 18
TAHOE
DONNER
CONTACTS + HOURS
Beach Club Marina (530) 587-9460
tahoedonner.com/marina marina@tahoedonner.com
Closing for season on Oct. 5. Open Daily
Through Oct. 5 | 8AM-7PM
Marina Grill
Closed for season.
Bikeworks (530) 582-9694
tahoedonner.com/bikeworks bikeworks@tahoedonner.com
Closing for season on Oct. 19. Open Daily
Monday-Thursday | 9AM-4PM Friday-Sunday | 9AM-6PM
Campground (530) 587-9462
tahoedonner.com/campground campground@tahoedonner.com
Closed for season.
Equestrian Center (530) 587-9470 tahoedonner.com/equestrian equestrian@tahoedonner.com
Closing for season on Oct. 12. Private Lessons
Open Saturday-Sunday Through Oct. 12 | 9AM-3PM Golf Course (530) 587-9443 tahoedonner.com/golf golf@tahoedonner.com
Closing for season on Oct. 12. Course
Open Daily Through Oct. 12 | 9AM-5PM Driving Range Open Daily Through Oct. 12 | 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
Closing for season on Oct. 10. Open Daily Through Oct. 10 | 11:30AM-5PM
Recreation Hut (530) 582-9646 tahoedonner.com/recreation recreation@tahoedonner.com
Closing for season on Oct. 10. Open Daily Through Oct. 10 | 11:30AM-5PM
Tennis + Pickleball Center (530) 587-9474
tahoedonner.com/tennis tennis@tahoedonner.com
Closing for season on Oct. 26. Open Daily
Through 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 and hot tubs are closed through mid-December for renovations Gym
Open Daily | 6AM-10PM
Sauna + Steam Room
Open Daily | 6AM-9:45PM
Dining
Alder Creek Cafe (530) 582-9686
tahoedonner.com/aldercreekcafe
Closed for season. Will re-open with Cross Country Ski Center in November.
The Lodge Restaurant & Pub (530) 587-9455 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge lodge@tahoedonner.com Pavilion
Lunch Through Oct. 12 | 10AM-5PM Dinner
Open Wednesday-Sunday | 5-8:30PM
Pizza on the Hill (530) 587-9669
tahoedonner.com/pizza pizza@tahoedonner.com
Open Friday-Tuesday | 4-8PM Ask about our First Responders Discount!
Member Services (530) 587-9400 tahoedonner.com/welcome info@tahoedonner.com
Open Monday-Saturday | 8AM-5PM
All amenities are weather and conditions permitting. Check the website or call for most up-to-date information.
at Pizza on the Hill and The Lodge Restaurant & Pub From Oct. 15 Through Nov. 25 tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials + tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials
The Buzz: Clubs
4-Wheelers Club
We carried out our adopted trail and campground maintenance this past month. Starting with the Pole Creek OHV trail, we cleared out six fallen trees and trimmed encroaching brush. The north end of the trail is closed due to timber sale work through next year, so it is an outand-back trek for now. This beautiful trail is open until Nov. 1 and is suitable for short wheelbase, high clearance 4x4 vehicles like Jeep Wranglers, Toyota FJs and Ford Broncos. Parking at the ridge below the peak, it is a 1.5-mile hike up to Tinker Knob.
We did our annual maintenance of the Miller Lake Campground on the east end of the Rubicon. Afterwards, we drove up to Sourdough Hill to enjoy the gorgeous views of Desolation Wilderness and nearby lakes. This trail is not challenging, like further in on the Rubicon, and is well worth a visit.
See TD4Wheelers.org for additional club info and come join us on our next run!
American Mah Jongg Club
Need an idea for a birthday gift for yourself? You might consider adding a new Mah Jongg set to your wish list. What should you look for in an American Mah Jongg set?
• Most sets come with 166 tiles: the 152 tiles you need for play, plus six spare tiles (two jokers and four blanks) and eight extra flowers.
• Many sets come with four-player racks. It is good to get the racks with your tiles so that they will fit together well. Tile sizes can vary, and they don’t always fit nicely on your racks.
• It is helpful to have the set come in a sturdy case. As you know, tiles can be heavy. Cases can be soft-sided or hard-sided.
There are many places to find Mah Jongg sets, including Amazon. You can also check out thrift stores or antique stores for used sets. Make sure the set is complete and includes the Jokers. These are critical to playing American Mah Jongg!
Our club meets every Tuesday at Alder Creek Adventure Center from 1-4PM. After mid-October, we will move to a new location to be determined. We play American Mah Jongg using the current year’s National Mah Jongg League card and rules. No RSVP needed!
For more information about the Mah Jongg Club, contact Dori Schick at doridans@hotmail.com or Deb Bloomberg at debbala@comcast.net
Equestrian Club
Charlie, a long-time Tahoe Donner herd horse, is retiring! Charlie has been a trusted trail horse for many years and is full of character. No one knows exactly how old he is, but he’s certainly earned his carrots. He now requires a little extra special care.
For several summers, Adrianne and Chris Weiss leased Charlie from Tahoe
Donner, and he never failed to greet them eagerly as soon as he saw them. This spring, TD management approached the Weiss family about caring for Charlie in retirement, and it didn’t take them long to say yes! They found him a wonderful retirement barn in Carmel Valley, where he’ll be living the good life alongside their new horse, Pretzel.
Adrianne can be found at the barn daily, giving both horses plenty of love and attention. Be sure to stop by, give Charlie a scratch and share your favorite TD Charlie stories. A big thank-you to Chris and Adrianne for their kindness and their love of the Tahoe Donner horses!
Men’s 9-Hole Golf Club
The season is winding down. Weather permitting, we’ll be able to get a couple more play days in before we shut down for the year. We’ve had a good start, with around 30 members signing up. We’ll meet in October to talk about how things went and how we can improve everyone’s experience with the club. Michael and I hope to have several members join us to discuss 2026 plans and possibly be on the club board. This will be a low-key board with just a few jobs and activities. I will send an email to all members to organize a casual meeting for later in October or early November. Feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss any aspect of the club.
Interested in signing up as a member? Contact Michael Eyton-Lloyd at hmsmike1@aol.com. Need more information? Contact Raymond Cadei at raytoni110@gmail.com
Men’s Golf Club
As we enter October, we can reflect on one of the best seasons the TD Men’s Golf Club has ever had. With a focus on inclusivity and the player experience, our membership increased with an influx of first-time club members; participation
in our weekly Wednesday games was at an all-time high; and the feedback from participants in the Club’s many golf tournaments was the most positive we’ve ever received.
The club’s board of directors will meet monthly throughout the off-season to plan next year’s events, analyzing each with an eye toward continuous improvement. If you are a current club member, now is the time to think about renewing for next year. Renewing early – before Jan. 1, 2026 – will provide you with a discount. For those of you reading this who would like to become a new member, know that the club would love to have you, and registration for new members will open at the beginning of 2026. Visit tdgolfclub.com or contact Membership Chair Dave Janiszewski at janiszewski.tdgolf@gmail.com, for more information about how to renew or become a new member of the Tahoe Donner Men’s Golf Club.
Quilt Club
What will October give us this year, warm days? Beautiful foliage or snow? I think of October as the “surprise” month, where one has to be ready for anything. But it is a lovely time to be here for sure. Fall colors are my favorite, especially the warm golden light at sundown. Years ago, I put all those colors together and made this quilt. I decided to keep that one for myself!
TAHOE DONNER CLUB CONTACTS
4-Wheelers | Tim West club@td4wheelers.org
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 | Joe Rosenfeld info@tdski.com
Women’s 9-Holers Golf | Debi Lorraine debi.lorraine@ gmail.com
Women’s Golf | Mary Liz Wardlaw tdwgclub@gmail.com
Wine? Birding? Photography? We want to support you in developing and promoting your club. Learn more and get an application at tahoedonner.com/ clubs
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The Buzz: Clubs, Continued
I have seen many wonderful pieces from our group as well, like this colorful small wall piece (we miss you, Lydia). It is always fun to see the creativity of our members.
We recently delivered 12 baby blankets to the Nevada County Healthy Baby program and made 67 small pillows for the local Infusion and Cancer Treatment Center; these are two of our continuing activities. Thank you to our quilting/sewing angels!
If you would like to find out what we do, please feel free to contact me at odette.turmel@gmail.com. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, at the Northwoods Clubhouse. Please note that in October, we will change to our winter schedule and meet from 1-3PM.
Women’s 9-Holers Golf Club
What a wonderful year for the TD Women's 9-Holers Golf Club! We kicked off
the season early and had our first weekly Thursday play on May 29. If the weather cooperates, we will play three more days in October, or until the course closes. Here's a recap of our 2025 events:
• 22 Thursday Golf Days
• Three Tournaments
• Five Socials: Welcome Social, Orientation Pizza Party, President/VP Luncheon, Invitational Luncheon and Annual Meeting + Dinner
• Three Twilight Golf sessions (It would have been four except for our crazy August monsoons!)
• Twice-monthly Afternoon Play –Tuesday afternoon times reserved for our members only!
• 18-Holers Exchange Play
As our 2025 playing season winds down, we are already planning for the next season with our new board in place!
Wendy Lockhart – President
Cathy Pellegrini – Vice President
Deb Phelps – Treasurer
Valerie Brown – Secretary
Karen Juarez – Member at Large
Thank you, ladies, and all the volunteers, for your time, energy and creativity. We look forward to another wonderful season of golf in 2026! We also wish to thank our sponsor, Alison Elder, for her lovely gifts and generous support!
Please join us in 2026 for another outstanding year of golf and fun! Watch our website for details at td9holers.com.
Women’s Golf Club
As the 2025 season winds down, we celebrate a year of exciting tournaments, spirited competition and memorable social events. Congratulations to our Club Champion, Mary Liz Wardlaw! We also recognize our top performers: Kanako Schuldt (Low Gross Runner-Up), Carolyn Rose (Low Net Winner) and Carol Cavanagh (Low Net Runner-Up).
The President’s Club Match Play season concluded on Aug. 26. A special congratulations to Linda Brown, who captured first place overall. Flight winners included:
Flight 1: Martha Gilbertson
Flight 2: Kanako Schuldt
Flight 3: Julie Sharp
Another highlight was welcoming the women from Incline Village on Sept. 9, followed by their gracious hospitality on the tenth. The exchange added a fun and memorable element to the season.
Though the months seemed to pass quickly, the season brought new friendships, strong competition and plenty of joy on our beautiful course.
To learn more about the Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club, visit tdwomengolf.org
TAHOE
DONNER GIVING FUND
MEET JOSHUA AND ASHLEE, SIBLING SCHOLARSHIP SYNERGY
Since 2015, the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund has provided 84 scholarships to deserving students from the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District. The Giving Fund Committee is particularly excited about our opportunity to provide support for an incredibly special brother and sister, Joshua and Ashlee. Both attended North Tahoe High School: Joshua graduated in 2023, followed by Ashlee in 2024. And now, both are “Wildcats” at California State University, Chico. Joshua initially planned to attend a local community college and then transfer to a four-year school, mainly to remain close to his only
sibling, Ashlee. With the encouragement of his high school counselor and a push from Ashlee, he changed his mind and decided to attend CSU Chico. Joshua recently began his third year of college and has declared Business Management as his major. Joshua is confident that a degree in business will provide him with a lot of flexibility around future career options.
Ashlee is now in her second year at CSU Chico. She had her heart set on attending college with her brother and a few close friends from North Tahoe High School. Ashlee is working on her general education and prerequisite courses for Chico’s Nursing Program, to which she will apply this coming spring or fall of 2026. Ashlee’s long-range plan is to be a Labor and Delivery Nurse.
This past summer, Ashlee returned to Lake Tahoe and worked at the Fire Sign Café on the West Shore. Joshua decided to stay in Chico, where he has been working as a parking attendant for a local hospital. Joshua reports he has a great relationship with his boss and coworkers and very much enjoys the opportunity to help patients get to their medical appointments. The job is a good fit since Joshua is someone who looks for ways to help others.
Both Joshua and Ashlee are very warm and friendly people with great futures ahead. They love their experience at CSU Chico and are grateful for the scholarships provided by the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund.
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.
SCHEDULE EARLY + SAVE!
Make this holiday season magical! Whether for friends, family, or colleagues, Tahoe Donner offers stunning venues, customized menus, and festive décor — the perfect backdrop for your celebration.
Waived site fees for events booked Nov. 1–Dec. 21 for 30+ guests INCLUDES COMPLIMENTARY LIFT TICKETS FOR EVERY ATTENDEE!
OPTIONS + FLEXIBILITY
Choose from a variety of venues, from intimate fireside lounges to spacious banquet rooms and scenic decks. Whether you’re planning for 20 or 100 guests, our team will help you bring your holiday vision to life! PLAN YOUR EVENT TODAY! Email
Your Power-Up Guide: Supercharge Your Immunity This Season
BY DR. MICHELLE SORAYA POURTABIB, M.D.
Ready to turn your body into a germ-fighting superhero? As we enter the cold, flu and COVID season, it's time to activate your immune system's superpowers. Think of this as your ultimate training manual for building an army of microscopic defenders that'll keep you feeling fantastic all season long.
Your Immune System:
The Ultimate Defense Squad
Picture this: your immune system is like an elite special forces unit, complete with different specialized teams working around the clock to protect your body. You've got scout cells that patrol for invaders, memory cells that remember past enemies and warrior cells that launch full-scale attacks when needed. The best part? You can train this incredible team to be stronger, faster and more effective.
Level 1: Power-Up Your Daily Routine
The Sleep Superpower
While you're catching those Zs, your immune system is having its own training camp. During sleep, your body cranks out infectionfighting cells and antibodies like a 24/7 immune factory. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. Create a cozy bedtime ritual with warm baths, herbal teas and gentle stretching. Keep your bedroom cool and dark and banish screens at least an hour before bed – your immune cells will thank you.
Movement Magic
Think of exercise as CrossFit training for your immune cells. Regular moderate activity boosts circulation, helping your cellular defenders patrol your body more effectively. We're talking 150 minutes weekly – that's just 20 minutes a day of activities you enjoy!
The Joy Factor
Here's the fascinating science: when you exercise for fun versus forcing yourself through dreaded workouts, your immune system gets a dramatically different message. Exercise you hate triggers psychological stress that floods your system with cortisol, the hormone that suppresses immune function. But when you genuinely enjoy your movement, your brain produces endorphins and maintains better hormonal balance, creating the perfect environment for immune enhancement.
Remember: more isn't always better. Over-exercising can temporarily weaken immunity, so listen to your body. If you're dreading your workout or feeling constantly fatigued, it's time to try something completely different.
Nutrition Superstars
Your immune system runs on fuel; premium nutrition is like high-octane gas for your cellular army. Here's why getting nutrients from whole foods beats supplements every time: your body recognizes and absorbs food-based nutrients far more efficiently than isolated supplements. Whole foods come with natural cofactors, fiber and supporting compounds that work synergistically –like vitamin C in oranges paired with bioflavonoids that enhance absorption. Plus, it's nearly impossible to overdose on nutrients from food, while supplements can easily provide harmful mega-doses.
Here are your immunity all-stars:
• Vitamin C Champions: Load up on citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries and broccoli.
• Vitamin D Powerhouse: The “sunshine vitamin” is crucial for immune function. With shorter winter days, consider eating fatty fish, fortified foods and spending time outside in the sun.
• Zinc Zone: This mineral is like a personal trainer for your immune cells. Target your daily needs through nuts, seeds and lean meats.
• Colorful Antioxidants: Eat the rainbow. Orange sweet potatoes, purple berries, green leafy vegetables – each color brings unique immune-supporting compounds to the party.
Stress-Busting Strategies
Chronic stress is like kryptonite to your immune system, flooding your body with cortisol that puts the brakes on your defenses. Fight back with breathing exercises, nature therapy, gratitude practice or creative outlets that bring you joy.
Level 2: Vaccine Victory – Powering Up Your Immune Super Squad
Vaccines are like giving your immune system a secret mission briefing before the real battle begins. Instead of waiting to get sick, you’re training your body’s defenses in advance – like a superhero team practicing before facing the villain.
How Vaccines Power Up Your Defenses
Vaccines show your immune system an inactive version of a virus. This lets your body practice spotting the enemy and build a fastresponse squad ready to jump into action if the real virus shows up.
Why It Matters
Vaccines don’t just help prevent infections — they can also weaken the villain’s punch. If you do get sick, you’re more likely to have milder symptoms, get better faster and avoid serious complications. Plus, your super shield helps protect people around you who are more vulnerable, like older adults, pregnant friends or anyone with a weaker immune system.
Level 3: Battle Plan When Germs Strike
Despite your best efforts, sometimes those sneaky viruses slip through. Here’s your recovery strategy:
Rest, Rest, Rest
Your immune system works most efficiently when your body isn't multitasking. Cancel plans, call in sick and give your cellular army the downtime it needs.
Hydration Overdrive
When fighting infection, your body needs extra fluids for fever management, mucus production and toxin elimination. Target clear or pale-yellow urine, plus an extra 8oz for every degree of fever above 98.6°F.
Smart Symptom Management
• Honey for coughs (nature's cough suppressant)
• Warm saltwater gargles for sore throats
• Steam from hot showers for congestion
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for aches and fever
Antiviral Game-Changers
• Tamiflu (for flu): Blocks viral replication enzymes, reducing flu duration and severity when started within 48 hours of symptoms.
• Paxlovid (for COVID): Inhibits a key COVID enzyme, preventing viral reproduction and significantly reducing severe illness and long COVID risk.
Both work by stopping viruses from multiplying, giving your immune system a better chance to clear the infection before it becomes severe.
Why Some People Feel Lousy for Weeks: The Post-Viral Reality
Ever wonder why some people bounce back quickly while others drag around that lingering cough or feeling of “blah” for weeks? Here's the fascinating science:
The Inflammatory Hangover
When your immune system fights off a virus, it creates inflammation – much like a controlled fire that burns out invaders. Sometimes this response gets stuck in the “ON” position even after the virus is gone. This persistent inflammation makes you feel tired, achy and generally unwell weeks after initial infection.
The Hypersensitive Cough Connection
That annoying post-viral cough happens because respiratory infections make your cough receptors hypersensitive – like a smoke detector that keeps going off even after the fire is out. These oversensitive receptors react to normal things like talking, temperature changes or deep breathing, triggering coughing fits lasting 3-8 weeks.
Immune System Confusion
Sometimes your activated immune system gets confused and starts attacking healthy tissues, thinking they're still viral threats. This “molecular mimicry” affects multiple body systems, leaving you feeling run-down for extended periods.
Everything in this guide works together to create “immune fitness” – a system strong enough to fight infections, balanced enough to avoid overreacting and smart enough to shut down properly when threats are eliminated.
Your Immunity Superpower Activated
You have incredible power over the strength and effectiveness of your immune system.
Whether you're preventing illness, managing symptoms or protecting your community, you've got the tools, knowledge and power to take charge of your health.
Ready to put your immunity superpowers to work? Your future healthy self is cheering you on!
Remember: Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns about your symptoms.
If you are interested in learning more, Dr. Michelle Soraya Pourtabib, MD, will be hosting a class on immune-boosting strategies with Q+A at Trout Creek on Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 5:30-6:15PM at the Trout Creek Rec Center. If you have special requests for topics to be covered, please email them to wellness@sorayamd.com
About the Author
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
Amenity Access
Verification Reminder
Winter fun is just around the corner and now is a great time to check your Tahoe Donner member account to make sure it’s up to date before the seasonal rush begins.
Log in to your account on ShopTD and select “My Account” to view who is currently listed as a member. If you need to make any changes –such as adding or adjusting family members – now’s the time to do it. And it can all be completed easily and securely online! This will help ensure a smooth experience when visiting Tahoe Donner’s private amenities this winter.
What You Need to Do Now
All new or updated Member ID Cards require documentation to verify family relationships.
Follow these three easy steps to change or add members to your account:
1. Log in to your Tahoe Donner member account in ShopTD
2. Review your existing “members”
3. If you would like to make changes to the members on your account, complete the Member Information Update + Verification Form online and upload supporting documents (such as a birth certificate, school record, insurance or medical record)
Other Things to Know Ahead of Winter
• If your children are planning to participate in winter programs, ensure all children starting at age 3 are listed as “members” on your account.
• To bring a personal guest with you to any private amenity, simply show your valid Member ID Card upon entry.
• You must pre-register unaccompanied guests in advance of their visit in your ShopTD account. Transferable guest cards are no longer valid and should be disposed of.
• Short-term rental (STR) tenants do not qualify as personal guests. Short-term tenant cards are required for entry at private amenities.
To learn more about updating your member profile, verifying family members or pre-registering guests, visit the Amenity Access hub at tahoedonner.com/amenity-access. You can do all of this at home by uploading your verification documents via a secure online process! Let’s make this winter all about fun – check your account now so you’re ready to enjoy everything Tahoe Donner has to offer!
If you have any questions, Member Services is available Monday-Saturday 8AM-5PM at (530) 587-9400, ext. 0 or email info@tahoedonner.com
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Briefs
ASSOCIATION GOVERNANCE
Join the Elections Committee
Are you interested in becoming more involved in Tahoe Donner? The Elections Committee currently has two vacancies. This important association committee ensures the fair and efficient administration of the election process at Tahoe Donner. The committee certifies the eligibility and good standing of candidates volunteering to run for the board election, monitors the election process to help ensure its fairness and impartiality, and participates in the Candidates Night and other election events. Apply by Oct. 31. Learn more at tahoedonner.com/active-committees
GOLF
A $10,000 Hole-in-One!
Congratulations to Tahoe Donner member Brian Gauny, who made a hole-in-one on Hole #7 during the Men’s Club Invitational on Sept. 6! The shot was insured for $10,000 –meaning Brian walked away with the cash prize. “I have seen a few insured holes in one, but never during the Tahoe Donner Invitational,” said Head Golf Professional Jeff Hwang. “It was a pretty surreal and special moment caught on camera!”
BIKEWORKS
New Gravel Bike Rentals
Available at Bikeworks
Test a brand-new Gravel bike at Bikeworks before the season ends! These bikes combine the speed of a road bike with the durability of a mountain bike, making them ideal for Tahoe Donner’s extensive trail system. Start your ride right from the rental shop with direct access to Euer Valley
and more than 60 miles of singletrack, doubletrack and fire roads. Or choose from our latest bikes or eMTBs and make the most of fall on the trails. Members always receive 10% off rentals, bike purchases and all retail.
Bikeworks Hours
Monday-Thursday Through Oct. 19 | 9AM-4PM Friday-Sunday Through Oct. 19 | 9AM-6PM
ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Tahoe Donner Goes Cashless Starting Dec. 1
Beginning Dec. 1, 2025, Tahoe Donner will transition to a cashless point-of-sale system across all amenities. This change reflects the diminishing use of cash in today’s transactions and supports greater efficiencies for staff, members and visitors. Cash handling requires significant staffing resources and carries inherent risks, while digital and card payments provide a faster and more secure customer experience. Members and guests must pay with credit or debit cards or via mobile wallets using Apple Pay or Google Pay. Mobile wallet payments are currently accepted at all locations except The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, which will begin offering this option in Spring 2026. Member Services and Accounting will still accept personal checks for payment of any association fees. Cash tips are still accepted. By going cashless, Tahoe Donner is streamlining operations, enhancing security and ensuring a more convenient experience for everyone. Learn more at tahoedonner.com/cashless
BIKEWORKS
Youth Mountain Bike Race Returns to Tahoe Donner
Saturday, Oct. 18 - Sunday, Oct. 19
The weekend of Oct. 18-19, Tahoe Donner will host the Nevada North Interscholastic Cycling League’s “Tahoe Donner Dash,” a youth mountain bike race. The course weaves along Tahoe Donner trails throughout a scenic singletrack climb, followed by a thrilling descent with flow trail, technical sections, and berm and rock features. Please note that the race will impact access to Bikeworks, the Alder Creek Adventure Center and many trails throughout the weekend. We are excited to welcome back this seasonending event that brings fun, challenge and celebration to the Tahoe Donner community.
Please adhere to all caution signage and possible trail closures for this event.
ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Mark Your Calendars for 2025/26 Members’ Ski Free Days!
We are thrilled to announce this season’s exclusive Member Ski Free Days at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort AND Cross Country Ski Center: Friday, Jan. 23, Monday, Feb. 9 and Friday, March 20. These complimentary ski days are available for members with valid Member ID Cards only, and your free lift ticket or day pass must be reserved in advance on ShopTD. Members’ Ski Free Days do not include rentals or lessons. Visit tahoedonner.com/events for details.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Plan Your Holiday Party at Tahoe Donner!
Make this year’s holiday celebration unforgettable by hosting your event at Tahoe Donner. With multiple venues to choose from, customizable menus, entertainment options and waived site fees for early bookings, we have everything you need to create the perfect gathering. Book your holiday event between Nov. 1 and Dec. 21 for 30 guests or more, and we’ll waive the site fee – plus enjoy additional perks like complimentary lift tickets for everyone in your group. Start planning today and let Tahoe Donner bring your holiday vision to life!
For more information, visit the website at tahoedonner.com/holiday-parties or contact groupsales@tahoedonner.com.
ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Get the Latest Tahoe Donner Trails News Direct to Your Inbox
Tahoe Donner is building a brand-new email list to communicate year-round trail updates. By subscribing, you’ll be the first to know about forestry projects, master plan updates, seasonal openings and closures, important dates, trail tips and more. Opt in today and start receiving dedicated Tahoe Donner Trails news directly in your inbox soon at tahoedonner.com/subscribe
Where in the World
is Tahoe Donner News + Life?
Costa Rica
Lois and Dave Parsons along with Linda and Al Richardi went on an OAT trip to Costa Rica and paddled in an outrigger canoe to Limoncito Beach.
Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy
and Lori
helped Frank celebrate his 60th birthday.
Patagonia, Chile
Kathy and Charlie Cockerill on their trip to
Tokyo, Japan
Frank
Lux, Rob and Anne Naragon and Julie and Craig Paulsen overlooking the town of Gustavia on the island of Saint Barthélemy in the Caribbean, where we
Maddie and Nathan Dang stopped for a photo in front of the Imperial Palace gate in Tokyo.
Patagonia.
Tokyo, Japan
Marc, Megan, Emi and Alex Pajarillo in front of the world-famous Shibuya Crossing where – on average – 1,000-2,500 people cross the intersection every two minutes during peak periods.
Germany
Sherie and Dave Ambrose celebrated both of their retirements at the Christmas Markets in Cochem, Germany (left) and Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany.
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.
Board Meeting Recap
Regular Board of Directors Meeting
August 29, 2025
Management Update: Multi-Year Policies Resolutions Review and Update
The board received a brief report from the General Manager regarding the ongoing multi-year initiative to review and update the association’s administrative and policy resolutions.
Community Standards: Forest Health and Fire Safety Rules Update
Staff updated the board on recent developments at the local, state and federal levels that could potentially affect Tahoe Donner’s Forest Health and Fire Safety Rules. The board moved to accept the staff’s recommendation to postpone updates to the Forest Health and Fire Safety Rules (2025 Annual Strategic Objective) until the outcomes of regulatory changes are determined. Motion passed 4-0 (Murrell absent).
2025 Annual Strategic Objectives
Q1 + Q2 Reporting and 2026 Annual Strategic Objectives Draft
Staff updated the board of directors on the 2025 Strategic Annual Objectives and presented a draft proposal for the 2026 Strategic Annual Objectives. The board reviewed the draft proposed 2026 objectives and provided feedback to staff for refinement and finalization.
Draft 2026 Operating Budget Review
Staff provided an overview of the 2026 Annual Budget development process, highlighted the primary factors influencing the 2026 budget and shared initial recommendations for the Operating Fund Budget. The board discussed and provided guidance to staff and the Finance Committee regarding 1) the draft 2026 Amenity Access Operating Plan and its associated fees, 2) specific departmental budgets and 3) additional analysis and information requests.
Go to tahoedonner.com/board-meetings 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
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
Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 –Regular Board Meeting
Friday, Dec. 19, 2025 –Regular Board Meeting
Board
Upcoming Committee Meetings
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025 –Trails + Open Space
Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025 –Architectural Standards
Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025 –Long-Range Planning
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025 – Tahoe Donner Giving Fund
Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025 – Finance
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025 –Architectural Standards
Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025 – Covenants Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025 – Elections
Wednesday, Nov. 5, 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
Homes on the Rise
The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed and approved the following plans in Aug. 2025.
UNIT/LOT ADDRESS SQ. FT. PROJECT 10/337 12290 2,343 House/ Muhlebach Garage Way
Covenants Violation Hearings
Go to tahoedonner.com/covenants to view covenants rules and how to make a covenants complaint.
Correction: In the September 2025 issue of Tahoe Donner News + Life, the list of street names in the 2026 Fire Safety Property Inspection story should have included Chapelle Place, and incorrectly referred to Davos Lane when it is actually Davos Drive. We apologize for any confusion.
