tahoe donner news - february 2011

TahoeDonner.com | 1

Table of Contents10

17

24

Features

10 Mark Nadell Community Spotlight

17 Candyland The Unveiling of New Terrain

Departments

02 President’s Message New Projects for the New Year

03 Monthly Calendar A look @ Feb. Events

04 General Manager’s Message From Robb Etnyre’s Desk

06 Lets Get Together TD Events & Happenings

27 Bulletin Board Fire Safety Information

30 Taking Care of Business Board Meeting Minutes

32 Where in the World is TD News? TD News Travels the World

articles

20 Volunteer: Chris Nelson Making a Beautiful Noise at TD

24 Truckee News Bucking the Trend

26 Day Excursions A Fun Adventure Close to Home

26 Recipe of the Month Chocolate Banana Cream Pie

31 Craft/DIY Homemade Conversation Hearts

2 | Tahoe Donner News | February 2011

WelcomeVol. 12, No. 2FeBRUARY 2011

I hope that everyone’s New Year has started off well. For Tahoe Donner, it has been a very good start with the exception of some unseasonably warm weather in the middle of January. Keep an eye on the weekly news for special events at Downhill Ski and Cross Country Ski.

The Board Vice President, Robert Burks, tendered his resignation due to unforeseen, significant changes in his professional life on Friday, January 23, 2011, effective immedi-ately. The remaining four board members now have the task of appointing a director to fulfill the remainder of his term. If you have an interest and the time to devote to this position, please contact me. The board will attempt to fill this position as soon as possible. Direc-tor Suzy Knisley will now fill the position of Vice President.

On January 21st, the board met for 4 hours with the General Plan Committee and the Finance Committee to go over the proposed 2030 General Plan. This plan will cover the next 20 years and will break down into 5 year increments with the first five years being from 2011 to 2015. This first five year segment will concentrate on the most needed projects. These projects will be funded from the Devel-opment Fund. Our Development Fund consists of two parts, the Development Fund Regular and Designated Building Replacement. This funding stream will allow the construction of the projects without an extra assessment of our members.

So what is on the slate for the next five years? In 2011, we will expand the parking lots

at Downhill Ski and Cross Country to reduce on street parking at both locations. The relocation and construction of the Forestry Building is set for completion this year also. A permanent bar will be placed in the Grotto at the Lodge. In 2012, the Maintenance Facil-ity will be remodeled and additional storage will be added. The deck at the Lodge will be expanded and have an enclosure for year-round use. Looking ahead to 2013, the Cross Country Ski Lodge will be replaced at the existing location and will also serve as the summer day camp facility. 2014 will bring the complete replacement of the Downhill Ski Lodge with a new facility that is larger and will reduce the wait time. This replacement will also enlarge the indoor and outdoor seat-ing. The same year will have a combination barn/groomer facility constructed for the Equestrian Center. Marina roadside parking will be improved and expanded on Donner Pass Road in 2015.

An ongoing element of this General Plan is the acquisition of additional land that is adjacent to Tahoe Donner boundaries to pro-vide area for recreational use. This has been a high priority of your board and our member-ship and will continue to be a valued element of the plan.

As a reminder, there are two positions on the board of directors up for election in June, and now is the time to start getting ready. If you have an interest and I emphasize “the time,” please consider running for these positions. If you have served or are currently serving as a committee member, this would be very helpful.

If you have any questions or concerns I can be reached at [email protected] or by giving me a call @ 530-587-8720.

eDIToRIAl AND PRoDUcTIoN STAFF

Matt chappellAmanda Wallace Kirt Zimmer

BoARD oF DIRecToRS

president Ron Wulff, [email protected]

Vice president Suzan Knisley, [email protected]

secretary Don Berryman, [email protected]

treasurer John Dundas, [email protected]

Board of Directors [email protected]

Postmaster Send address changes to Tahoe Donner News, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161(530) 587-9400, Fax (530) 587-9419

email [email protected]

Advertising Sales Tahoe Guide is the exclusive advertising representative for the Tahoe Donner News. Call (530) 448-3065 or (530) 587-1393 or go to www.tahoeguide.com/go/tdnews for rate information.

Publishing InformationTahoe 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 con-stitute an endorsement or recommendation by Tahoe Donner Association or its Board of Directors of the products, services, or views contained therein.Tahoe Donner News (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 subscrip-tion to Tahoe Donner News at a cost of $12 annually, taken from member dues. Additional subscriptions are available at the cost of $25 each. This cost, however, is offset by advertis-ing revenues generated by this publication. Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and additional mailing offices.

on the coverSkier Kyle Kelly in Candyland at Tahoe Donner Downhill.

Ron Wulff | President

TahoeDonner.com | 3

FebruarysunDayWii Night6:30 p.m. @ Pizza on the Hill

tuesDayNo Corkage TuesdayBring a bottle of wine with your meal and we’ll waive the corkage fee.

WeDnesDayWild WednesdayEnjoy Happy Hour all night long. Food and drink specials @ The Lodge

thursDayTriva Night6:30 p.m. @ Pizza on the Hill

FriDayFamily Movie Night6:30 p.m. @ Northwoods Clubhouse

SomeThINg FoR eVeRYoNe!

19 saturDay

Children’s Glowstick Parade and CarnivalPlace: Downhill Ski AreaTime: 4:30 p.m.

A kid’s version of the Torchlight Parade with glow-sticks. Win glowsticks in our free carnival games.

27 sunDay

3 x 5 relays and demo dayPlace: Cross Country CenterTime: All day

Gather your team and compete in this fun relay event. Or try the latest cross country equipment for free; trail pass required.

17 thursDay

Full Moon tour and dinnerPlace: Cross Country CenterCost: $15 season pass holder $20 non-passholder

Enjoy a full moon ski or snow-shoe tour followed by dinner at the day lodge. RSVP to (530) 587-9484. Space is limited.

14 monDay

Valentine’s day sunset snowshoe Place: Meet at Trout Creek Recreation Center Time: 4:30 p.m.

Treat your special someone to something unique this year – a couple’s guided snowshoe tour.

4 FriDay

Kids night OutPlace: Northwoods ClubhouseTime: 5 p.m.

Parents enjoy a night to yourself while our trained staff looks after your little ones.

5 saturDay

dual Gs seriesPlace: Downhill Ski AreaVisit skitahoedonner.com for more details

Compete during one weekend or in all four during this fun race series. The results will be combined for your best three finishes from all four events to decide whose name will go on the permanent trophy as the fastest man, woman and child at Tahoe Donner.


FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER’S DESK

Tahoe Donner is not your typical Homeowners Association! With 6,471 assessed units, represent-ing 24,273 members, and an annual budget of just over $17

million for 2011, the annual assessment per assessed unit is only $1,330. How is this pos-sible, you ask? It is because Tahoe Donner has long implemented a user-based amenity system, allowing each individual member to decide how to spend their money on each activity/amenity, while also allowing some amenities to be open to the public to assist in revenue generation. Overall, the association only assesses $4.5 million or 33% of annual operating cost, requiring management to generate the remaining $8.8 million to suc-cessfully provide the wide range of amenities and services our membership enjoys.

As we close the accounting books for 2010, I’m happy to report the preliminary year-end net operating results (before assessed rev-enue) appears to be 11% or $475,000 ahead of budget for 2010, and 15% or $700,000 better than 2009 results! The results were driven by strong volume increases at most all amenities and responsive financial manage-ment. I would like to thank and congratulate the entire management team for their out-standing performance in 2010. The annual audit will finalize 2010 results and a complete Annual Report will accompany the May issue of Tahoe Donner News.

This business model underscores the importance of sound and timely management practices focused on the member/customer

in a far greater manner than any other HOA I’m aware of in the United States. Continued success of this business model is not a given, but requires a vast amount of time, attention and understanding from the association – members, staff and board alike. Tantamount to organizational success is clear, consistent and informed strategic direction from the board of directors. Equally, balanced with sound strategic direction, is the empower-ment of management to make effective, timely and impactful decisions to facilitate revenue generation while still maintaining a high level of service quality for the association’s membership and public alike. As noted in this month’s President’s Message, there is a cur-rent opportunity for someone to fill a recently vacated board of director position. Addition-ally, two more vacancies will be available in the upcoming April – June 2011 election cycle. This is your opportunity to become involved (by joining the board or voting) to provide strategic direction that enables the association to continue down a path of prosperity.

Interlinked with sound operations is a solid plan for infrastructure reinvestment and maintenance. Currently, the Replace-ment Reserve program is providing baseline maintenance of facility and capital operational components replacement as items reach the end of their useful life. This baseline program is invaluable in ensuring that the outward

RoBB ETnYRE | GenerAL MAnAGer

appearance and capital components of the amenities and facilities provide an acceptable amenity and support environment for our membership and staff alike. Even more criti-cal to community and operational success is infrastructure reinvestment.

As the association reaches its 40th anniver-sary this year, many of its underlining ameni-ties and support facilities have exceeded their useful life and have been outgrown by this almost fully built-out community that now has far greater amenity utilization than when it was originally designed 20 to 40 years ago. Currently, the combined efforts of the General Plan Committee, Finance Committee and staff have proposed an infrastructure reinvestment plan in the form of the 2030 General Plan (Draft), which comports with the existing capital funding stream, to address these long overdue infrastructure deficiencies. This draft plan has been reviewed by the board of direc-tors and will be made available to membership for review and feedback over the next month, prior to a final review by the board of directors in March 2011.

Lastly, I want to thank Robert Burks for his service to the association as a member of the board of directors. His leadership, clear understanding of the role of the board of directors, fiscal accountability and eye towards preservation of this mountain com-munity was greatly appreciated.

If you would like to review the draft 2030 General Plan, just visit TahoeDonner.com and click on the

Members link. Feedback regarding the plan can be directed to [email protected]

TahoeDonner.com | 5

TAhoe DoNNeR coNTAcTS

member communications (area code 530) Member Services 587-9400 [email protected]

General Manager 587-9431 [email protected]

Contact Member Services to be transferred to other administrative departments.

AmenitiesAlder Creek Campground 587-9462 [email protected]

Beach Club Marina 587-9460 [email protected]

Cross Country Center 587-9484 [email protected]

Downhill Ski Area 587-9444 [email protected]

Equestrian Center 587-9470 [email protected]

Forestry 587-9432 [email protected]

Golf Course 587-9443 [email protected]

The Lodge 587-9455 [email protected]

Pizza On The Hill 582-9669 [email protected]

Recreation Info Hut 587-9413 [email protected]

Tennis Center 587-9474 [email protected]

Trout Creek Rec. Center 587-9437 [email protected]

Tahoe Donner Association committee chairsArchitectural Standards, Jason Wooley [email protected]

Covenants, Paul Thomas [email protected]

Finance, Jim Stang [email protected]

General Plan, Chris Nelson [email protected]

Tahoe Donner Association chartered club PresidentsBridge, Sharilyn Nelson [email protected]

Family Interest, Heather Sloane [email protected]

9-Holers, Hilary Ward [email protected]

Rowing Club, Dot Mace [email protected]

Senior Alpine Ski, Pete Tierney [email protected]

Tahoe Donner Green, Sue Sorensen [email protected]

TDMGC, Robert Heath [email protected]

Tennis, Linda Stewart [email protected]

Nordic Ski Club, Jacky Poulsen [email protected]

Women’s Golf, Denise Kosak [email protected]

Hiking Club, Robin Reese [email protected]

Quilt Club, Linda Brush [email protected]

A reminder to members, please make sure to update your emer-gency phone numbers with Tahoe Donner. It is easy to do if you have access to the internet. Just go to tahoedonner.com. On the home page, click on “Members,” then click on the “You” tab. That will take you to the Member contact information. Simply fill in the blanks and hit submit. It is important for you to update your information with Tahoe Donner in case of an emergency while you are away from your home in the mountains. If there is an emergency, we make every effort to reach you by phone first before writing a letter. You can also update information by calling Member Services at (530) 587-9400.

AT YOUR SERVICE


cRoSS coUNTRYEveryone’s cross-country ski technique

can always use a little tune-up and there is still plenty of time to improve your skiing this season. We have a variety of specialty clin-ics. For season pass holders, we offer a classic clinic by Gary Schmitt on Tuesday mornings at 7 a.m. Also for pass holders on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Chauncey Parker teaches an intermediate skate clinic at 7 a.m.

In February, the Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center offers clinics specifically for women. Andrea Miller will be teaching a women’s skate clinic on Wednesdays at 9:30

a.m. On Thursday, February 10, JoJo Toeppner will teach a women’s beginning skate clinic. Join us for a women’s intermediate level clinic working on V-2 and V-2 alternate on Thursday, February 24. Also on Saturday, February 12, Olympian Katerina Nash will teach an inter-mediate skate clinic from 9 – 11 a.m.

We also have a variety of technique clinics. On Sunday, February 13, we have a free wax clinic taught by Swix tech Mark Nadell. Meet in the locker room at 2 p.m. On Saturday, Feb-ruary 19, we have an intermediate to advanced classic clinic taught by Olympian Glenn Jobe.

After you have improved your technique and your waxing, you can test your ability at some of our races. The Paco’s Valentine Race on Sunday, February 13, is a 15km freestyle race. You can choose classic or skate tech-nique. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the race starts at 10 a.m. The final two races in the night race series are on Wednesday, February 2, and Wednesday, February 16. Both races start at 6 p.m. and are 5km. freestyle races. On Sunday, February 27, we have a fun team race, the 3 x 5 Relays. The first leg is classic tech-nique followed by two skating legs. The relays

back: Dave Donnelly, David Wright, Pete Griffin, Bob Colquhounfront: Jessica Ferguson DeClercq, David Hipkins, Bruce Watkins

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start at 10 a.m. Also on Sunday, February 27, don’t miss the last Demo Day of the season from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Try the latest cross country equipment for free; a trail pass is required.

One last reminder, February is the last month that we offer night skiing. We turn on the light every Wednesday from 5 – 7 p.m. The last chance to go to night skiing is Wednesday, February 23. Come out and check out our nightlife.

Also just a reminder to all Tahoe Donner property owners: if you have not purchased a season pass, you must come in to the center to purchase a discounted trail pass. The property owner all-day pass is $16. After 1 p.m., the rate drops to $12 and after 3 p.m. the rate drops again to $10.

We hope to see you soon. The skiing is great!JoJo ToEppnERtdXC MAnAGer

VISIT cANDYlANDHello skiers and riders! Come check out our new Candyland terrain

parks – Bite Size and King Size, now open. Bite Size is our progression park which includes rails and boxes, small jibs and small jumps and bumps for those just learning to navigate their way through a terrain park. Our King Size terrain park includes more of the same, but with medium and large features geared towards more experienced riders. Our goal with these terrain parks is to help develop skiers and riders to progress their skills. If you have any questions or want to learn more about terrain park etiquette and safety, our professional staff is here to help you. Come check them out. Word has it that these are some of the best progression parks in the Tahoe region.

As always, the month of February brings fun events for the whole family. Don’t miss the second in our Dual GS Race Series on Saturday, February 5. Compete in one or all of these fun race events. The results will be combined for your best three finishes from all four events to decide whose name will go on the permanent trophy in the downhill odge as the fastest man, woman and child at Tahoe Donner. Prizes will be awarded at each event. This is your chance to race side-by-side with your friends and family.

Join us on Saturday, February 19, for the Children’s Glowstick Parade and Carnival. This event is a kid’s version of the Torchlight Parade with glowsticks for children 10 or younger who can ski or ride unassisted in the dark on our Snowbird run. Come early to secure a spot in the parade and win glowsticks in our free carnival games.

TahoeDonner.com | 9

Truckee Located in the

Truckee River Regional Park 10500 Old Brockway Rd.

The Truckee Ice Rink features: Skate Rentals Snack Bar Fire Pit Group/Private Lessons Group & Party Rentals

TDRPD Residents: Adult $4, Child $3 Non-Residents: $5Skate Rentals: $2

Season Passesalso available!

Rink Hotline: (530)587-6172

www.TDRPD.com

Truckee Donner Recreation & Park District 530-582-7720

OpensDec. 11th

Ice Rink!

Music and snacks will be provided in the bar area prior to the parade. Sign-up and carnival starts at 4:30 p.m.; 6 p.m. start time for the parade.

Tahoe Donner Downhill makes it easy to enjoy a day on the slopes. We offer several midweek deals and discounts throughout the season. Be sure to take advantage of the following special offers:

Parent’s dayMoms and dads, bring your under 13 year old skier to Tahoe Donner

Downhill Ski Area for a day of skiing every Tuesday during non-holiday periods and receive a complimentary lift ticket for yourself. That’s right, get a great deal for your child and you ski for free.

Wacky WednesdayBecome a fan of Tahoe Donner Downhill on Facebook or follow us on

Twitter and receive Wacky Wednesday deals every Wednesday during non-holiday periods.

Local thursdaysEveryone receives the “local’s discount” every Thursday during non-

holiday periods. Children $12 and adults $20. Bring your group out for a day of skiing. Discounts are available for

groups of 20 or more that book in advance. Contact the Downhill Ski Area with your details and we will create a package that meets your needs. More information about all our special offers is available online at skitahoedonner.com.

Mark your calendars for our annual Winter Beach Party. On Satur-day, March 5, join us for some tropical fun, including live music, food and games; a great time for the whole family starting at noon.

For more information, visit skitahoedonner.com or call (530) 587-9444. See you on the slopes!

RoBERT McclEndondOWnhiLL sKi AreA MOuntAin MAnAGer

IN The mooD FoR SNoWPlAYThe Tahoe Donner Snowplay Area is your headquarters for winter

sledding and tubing fun. Our groomed lanes make sledding fun and safe for kids of all ages. Entrance fee includes sled or tube rental, unlimited rides down the slope and complimentary hot cocoa.

The Snowplay Area is open Fridays from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. and Satur-days and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Additional days of opera-tion for February include:

Wednesday, February 2, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.Monday, February 21 – Friday, February 25, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.For more information, contact Trout Creek Recreation Center at

(530) 587-9437 or visit tahoedonner.com.

meeT me AT The loDgeTreat your special someone to an evening at The Lodge on

Monday, February 14. The Lodge will feature a special Valentine’s menu for the evening. Call (530) 587-9455 or visit thelodge-tahoe.com to make a reservation.

(continued on pg. 23)


mark naDellNordic News editor, local cross country ski team coach, father, photographer, graphic designer, adventurer...

FeATURe

TahoeDonner.com | 11


We bought our first home in TD mostly for one reason, and that was the cross country ski area. We wanted a location that we could ski to the trails from, hence Wolfgang. for a new mini-“subdivision.”

The Tahoe area is full of people who give their personal time to help create so many differ-ent things. Mark Nadell, Tahoe Donner homeowner, is no dif-

ferent and in this article we’re going roll up our sleeves to find out more about him and our burgeoning cross country ski scene right here in Tahoe Donner. First of all, I was able to get Mark to take me out for a skate ski/photo shoot recently, since he proclaims to know every angle on the hill and has the ideal time frame for lighting at the best locations engrained in his play book. The photo shoot was fruitful and proved to me how much time that Mark has invested in one of our most cov-eted amenities. Read on to find out more about Tahoe Donner homeowner Mark Nadell and how he has helped grow the area’s proliferat-ing cross country ski scene.

Why did you choose tahoe donner as your residence?

My wife, Pati Johnson, and I moved here in 1991, but we had bought a home in Tahoe Don-ner (on Wolfgang Rd.) in 1989. We were living in Oakland/Berkeley, and had decided that raising a family in the city was not what we wanted for the future (plus we couldn’t pos-sibly afford a nice home in a nice area in the Bay Area). After our son was born in 1990, and since we were spending 3-4 weekends a month driving up and back from the Bay, we decided to just go ahead and move up and find work (for Pati, of course, not me. She’s currently an attorney in Truckee, and is a former active member of the TDA General Plan Committee). We bought our first home in TD mostly for one reason, and that was the cross country ski

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area. We wanted a location that we could ski to the trails from, hence Wolfgang. In 1993, we found out that one of our favorite trails (Cork-screw, if you must know) was being taken out for a new mini-“subdivision.” We were bummed until we thought, “well, someone has to live there,” and so we bought a lot on Bear Meadows Ct. and built our home there in 1994.

What was it like working for tdXC when it was a concession?

Pati and I had experienced the beauty of Tahoe Donner since 1986, when I worked for Glenn Jobe at TDXC the second year it was in operation at the current location. I had known Glenn for many years from work-ing at Sierra Designs and Marmot Mountain Works in Berkeley when he owned Kirkwood Cross Country. When I was in graduate school at Cal, my Masters Thesis was a marketing survey of the cross country skiing business in California, and Glenn offered me a position doing marketing for him at TDXC for that winter. Back then, it was truly just a “barn.” The current building hadn’t been built yet, and our operation was out of the horse stable on what is now the northern section of the build-ing. Our office was upstairs, and there was a little window for selling tickets. But the skiing was still awesome. It was a small, family-feel-ing operation, and Glenn (and his first partner Peter Werbel) was a visionary for seeing the potential of cross country ski trails in the area. And Glenn’s ranching background gave him a unique ability to negotiate with John Euer for the rights to groom in Euer Valley, which makes TDXC what it is today.

After Glenn left to pursue other paths, Kenny Stannard (a partner Glenn brought in


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during the late ‘80’s) took over the operation and ran it for a few years before Tahoe Donner made a decision to not renew the concession lease in 1995 and take over the ownership. I was part of the committee that attempted to help TDA transition to its current ownership, and suggested we bring in Andrew Hall (for-merly of Royal Gorge) to run the XC center. Andrew’s influence was important in raising the level of skiing we are enjoying today under JoJo Toeppner’s current management.

You’re also involved with Far West nordic, tell us a little about that.

I’ve been involved with the Far West Nordic Ski Education Association since the mid-90’s, starting by volunteering my graphic services for their regular newsletters, and then becom-ing the Nordic Administrator for the division for many years. After some time of producing smaller newsletters, I started up Nordic News as an annual magazine extolling the virtues of cross country skiing in California and Nevada, using it as a marketing tool. It’s still basically a grass-roots publication from Far West Nordic, though, with articles written by many of the


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board members and some local skiers. I don’t really call myself a “publisher,” though, as most of my work is related to graphic design for various outdoor-oriented businesses, but I’m proud of the place that Nordic News has achieved in the cross country ski community.

now that you are a coach, what is it like working with all the local athletes?

Through Far West Nordic, I’ve been involved in coaching for many years with the local juniors, but mostly as a coach for Truck-ee’s Alder Creek Middle School. This is my 10th year of helping to coach 6th through 8th graders, but I still basically consider myself just a volunteer “parent helper” (even though I no longer have a child on the team). My teen-age daughter even comes out and helps coach, which is quite rewarding. This year, we had a huge growth spurt in the size of the team, and have gone from the number of athletes in the 50’s to almost 90 kids! It’s been a real adjust-ment trying to juggle a team of that size, espe-cially with the constraints of needing all the gear and wax we use during the season. It’s not like coaching a basketball team, where you throw them the ball and tell them to dribble and shoot! We take kids who have never been on nordic skis and teach them to become cross country ski racers in a matter of a couple of months. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a young athlete barely able to stand on skis in December and then cruising fast around a trail in a race in February! It’s also

a pleasure watching many of these middle schoolers go on to success in high school and even on college racing teams, and our hope is to one day have an athlete or two on the U.S. Ski Team. But most importantly, we teach these kids the incredible fun and discipline of becoming cross country ski competitors, and there’s not a more difficult yet rewarding sport out there for young athletes. And we have a blast doing it.

Your races are beginning to take launch with increased participation. Where do you see the cross country sport world heading?

Even though I’ve taken a break from regular active competing in cross country events, except for a few select races, I’m still very involved in the nordic racing scene. I still attend many of the races, either as a volunteer to help organize the event or to take photos of all the competitors (so they can make fun of each other’s technique). I’m also the Swix (cross country ski wax and gear) Nordic Technical Representative for the area, posting wax recommendations for most of the local competitions. In other words, I get around. Most importantly, I’m the auctioneer at the Far West Nordic Annual Auction/Raffle Party, which is hugely stressful because I need to come up with a crazy ski-related costume every year.

Nordic racing in California has its ups and

I’m the auctioneer at the Far West Nordic Annual Auction/ Raffle Party... I need to come up with a crazy ski-related costume every year.



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FeATURe


THE TAHOE DONNER DOWNHILL SKI AREA HAS BEEN mAkINg Some moVeS THIS YEAR INCLUDING MOVING THE TERRAIN PARK TO A MORE DESIRABLE PITCH RIGHT UNDER THE CHAIRLIFT. THIS HAS ADDED A VISUAL EFFECT TO THE CHAIR RIDE IN ADDITION TO cReATINg AN ATTRAcTIoN FoR RIDeRS AND SkIeRS WHO ARE LOOKING TO GROW THEIR ON MOUNTAIN SKILL SETS WITHIN A SAFE, CONTROLLED, PROGRESSION-BASED TERRAIN ENVIRONMENT. TAHOE DONNER RECENTLY UNVeIleD TWo NeW TeRRAIN PARkS cAlleD cANDYlAND. CANDYLAND HAS A “Bite Sized” AND “King Sized” RUN WHICH ARE BOTH GEARED UP FOR ALL SORTS OF SLIDES, JUMPS, WOOPS, SWOOPS, WHATEVER IT IS, YOU’RE GOING TO BE SMILING FROM TOP TO BOTTOM IN


Our own Alex Savitsky was presented the opportunity to move the terrain parks location to a steeper, more expansive slope. Savitsky’s support staff played a key role in making the Candyland concept a reality.


The terrain park was designed by our own Alex Savitsky who came to Tahoe Donner from Mammoth Mtn. a few years ago. He has been plotting his terrain design skills every chance he gets, until this year when Alex was pre-sented the opportunity to move the terrain parks location

to a steeper, more expansive slope. Alex’s support staff played a key role in making the Candyland concept a reality. Jeff Scarpino, from Burke Mountain Resort, joined the park crew with a high energy at-titude and a focus on growth. Alex Rapice, hailing from Vail Mountain Resort, brought new concepts in layout and design to the table. To-gether the trio hope to continue to raise the bar. Candyland amazingly packs in several features into a short, sweet run, making it a commit-ted day of on-slope progression.

Alex, tell us about what went into planning the features, building the features and placing the features.

The goal is to have a positive impact on our industry and our guests. There is a lot more planning and preparing involved in reaching that goal than most people think. To narrow it down, I like to use three terms, fresh-progressive-flow. By keeping things fresh for our guests, they don’t get bored of the same ol’ cookie cutter park. Progression is key in any park at any level. The goal is growth in skill, technique and style. With the proper progressive lines skiers and riders can always be looking to that next level. Without flow, a park can seem scattered and uninviting, but with the right layout skiers and riders can enjoy

more features in one line or a day’s riding for that matter, without getting jammed up, cutting each other off or even stopping from top to bottom. When all those aspects come together… success! Its seen on the smiles and laughs of everyone riding back up the chairlift in anticipation of their next line.

did you build the features on site? We have slowly been building our garden of features through the

last few years. This year we have nearly doubled our fleet with seven new features in the last month alone. Most of our features have been constructed or repurposed here on site. One of my favorite types of features is one that has been recycled or repurposed and, currently we have eight repurposed features in our fleet.

how did you come up with the names? We had first come up with some names for repurposed propane

tanks “Mike and Ike,” “The Skittle,” and “The Jaw Breaker.” All of these tanks had a striking a resemblance to the actual candy, only giant sized! The Candyland Terrain Parks concept came up over dinner one night with a good friend of mine, Kyle Kelly. We had been discussing a day’s riding in the park and were throwing around ideas for park names. Candyland Parks, Bite Size, and King Size by far were the best fit for the terrain park’s general plan, industry culture and the Downhill Ski Area as a whole. Appealing to both kids and adults alike, Candyland Parks would be a place where something sweet is always around the next turn!



CHRIS NELSON MAKES A BEAUTIFUL NOISE AT TAHOE DONNER

Interstate 80 in California gets busy with folks commuting from their homes in the Bay Area to ski areas around Lake Tahoe. But at one point several years ago, Chris Nelson decided to drive the other way.

In the last three years of his career as a music teacher and depart-ment chairman at Diablo Valley Community College, Chris enjoyed a three day work schedule. With a majority of the week open, it was an easy decision to live full-time at his place at Tahoe Donner and drive to work those other days. “I just called it my reverse commute,” he smiles.

Since retiring in 1995, Chris has become a familiar face to many at Tahoe Donner and Truckee in general. Among many other activities, he serves as chairman of the association’s General Plan Committee (GPC). True to its name, the committee focuses on long-range planning related to Tahoe Donner’s continued growth and aging facilities.

How did Chris end up in such an important position? Well, as with so many things, opinions led to action. For many years, Chris has been a member of the Tahoe Donner Senior Alpine Ski Club. Members of the club visit a variety of ski areas in the Tahoe region, including our own facility.

“We were looking at problems at the ski hill that we felt weren’t being addressed, and we came up with some ideas which were different from what the GPC was working on,” he says. “I realized that I needed to get involved rather than working from the outside.”

At the time, space at the downhill ski lodge wasn’t being used as efficiently as it should, which led to a variety of improvements to traffic


“At one point, I decided this is a place I’d like to live, because it’s such an active place… This is the best place to live in the North Tahoe region because it’s the only one with a real sense of community.”

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Chris speaks of these issues with great personal interest. “I’ve spent my whole life skiing here,” he says, mentioning his time as an instructor and a member of the National Ski Patrol. “At one point, I decided this is a place I’d like to live, because it’s such an active place… This is the best place to live in the North Tahoe region because it’s the only one with a real sense of community.”

Part of that community now includes his daughter and son-in-law, who live in the same neighborhood. He has three kids and two grandchildren - one daughter teaches Zumba classes at Trout Creek. When he’s not doting on family, Chris leads the Truckee Tahoe Community Chorus and a smaller group (“The OK Chorale”) that sings at local events like Light Up The Night. The story of how he got involved sounds familiar. “There was a void here, and…”

Well, you know the rest.

flow, experience and profitability. Chris credits staff with transforming concepts into reality, and it’s clear that the respect goes both ways.

“Chris has ushered in a new sense of energy and perspective into the dedicated members of the General Plan Committee,” says Annie Rosenfeld, director of facilities for Tahoe Donner. “The Downhill Ski Area remodel completed in 2009 was largely a result of his collaborative work with management staff in creative scenarios for improvement to the aged facility. His role as a leader in the General Plan Committee was and is instrumental in the undertaking of the 2030 General Plan update which is closing in on completion.”

Currently the GPC is working on an extensive 20 year plan for Tahoe Donner. Its objective is to bring amenities up to modern standards and to look at the needs of the association going for-ward. Over the next few months, they will have many conversations with various stakeholders regarding how to fund a variety of projects and move forward.

“What’s so great about what we’re doing now is that it’s a collaboration between the finance committee, board of directors and staff,” Chris says. “Each one brings a unique perspective.”

Another strong voice in the process has come from members not currently serving on a board or committee. A series of town hall meetings last spring, focusing on each amenity, gave an eclectic cross-section of users the chance to share their thoughts on what works and what needs improvement.

Echoing comments from board members, Chris hopes to avoid repeating mistakes made in previous capital projects, such as the scaled-back buildings at The Lodge and the Trout Creek Recreational Center. He mentions a need for more space at The Lodge for the pub and banquets, additional parking at the downhill and cross-country facilities, increased food and beverage space and the ever-growing challenge of storage. The plan will also attempt not to duplicate, but rather complement, the efforts of the Town of Truckee’s parks and recreation program.


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downs in terms of participation, it seems. Right now, it seems like we’re on an upswing in Truckee/North Tahoe, and with the growth at the younger level, we’re hopeful that this is a long-term trend. One of our most important races here at TDXC is the Sierra Skogsloppet, a mid-90’s brainchild of local photographer (and former high school nordic coach) Olof Carmel. Being Scandinavian, Olof decided to give the race a simple Swedish name, meaning the “Race through the For-est.” Unfortunately, no one can ever seem to pronounce it correctly (it’s “skoogs-loppit), so the name gets butchered on a regular basis. It’s been a benefit event for the Truckee High School (and more recently for Alder Creek Middle School as well) Nordic Team for many years, and Tahoe Donner generously donates all the proceeds to the schools to help keep the teams going. Both schools go through a LOT of gear and wax during the season.

Basically, I can’t imagine a better place to live than Tahoe Donner, especially if your priorities are great nordic skiing and wonderful outdoor summer trails out your back door. All the other amenities that the association have to offer are nice -- whether it’s the golf course, tennis courts, pools, whatever -- but those can all be replicated in a multitude of other areas. Our trails, however, are world class, and there’s really not a finer place to experience cross country skiing that I know of. Climbing to the top of the Far Side on Donner Ridge, and then descending 1,200 ft on I’m OK/Euer OK and cruising around Euer Valley is just one of the finest experiences in the world.

(continued from pg. 14)

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happy hourEnjoy Happy Hour at The Lodge Sunday – Thursday from 5 – 6:30

p.m. Receive 25% off the Starters, Salads and Soup menus plus drink specials. Happy Hour is valid in the pub only.

no Corkage tuesdayBring in your favorite bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal and we’ll

waive the corkage fee on Tuesday nights during non-holiday periods.

Wild WednesdaysEnjoy Happy Hour all night long in the pub every Wednesday night. Special offers and promotions are not valid during holiday periods.

For more information, contact The Lodge at (530) 587-9455.

PIzzA oN The hIllJoin us at Pizza On The Hill on Sunday, February 6, for Super Bowl

XLV. Watch the game on our 120” HD screen and enjoy half priced nachos as well as $2 Coors Light drafts and $3 house wine. Pizza On The Hill is also the place to enjoy an evening with your sweetheart. On Monday, February 14, take advantage of a Valentine’s Day Sweethearts Special at Pizza On The Hill on Monday, February 14. Order any pizza and two salad bars and two glasses of house white or red wine for $30.

Pizza On The Hill will be open every night for President’s week Thursday, February 17 – Thursday, February 28.

happy hourEnjoy Happy Hour at Pizza On The Hill Thursday – Monday from

5 – 6 p.m. during non-holiday periods. Receive 24% off the entire menu plus drink specials including $2 Coors Light drafts and $3 house wine. Happy Hour is valid for dine-in orders only.

half Price Pizza hourGrab a pie on your way home from the mountain. Order a pizza from

5 – 6 p.m. on Sundays and receive half price on cheese, pepperoni or veggie pies. Offer valid on take-out only during non-holiday periods; limit 10.

For more information, contact Pizza On The Hill at (530) 582-9669.

FRee WeeklY eVeNTSThere’s never a moment of boredom in Tahoe Donner. We offer free

weekly events throughout the winter to keep you entertained.

Wii nightCheck out our new Wii game. Try your luck at a “Wipe Out” obstacle

course or team up with a friend for Pictionary on the Wii uDraw it. Wii Night takes place every Sunday at Northwoods Clubhouse starting at 6:30 p.m.

trivia nightPut on your thinking cap, grab your friends and head over to trivia

night at Pizza On The Hill every Thursday starting at 6:30 p.m. The winning team after three rounds receives a certificate for a free pizza.

Family Movie nightCozy up by the fireplace, kick up your feet and enjoy a movie every

Friday night at Northwoods Clubhouse. Family Movie Night starts at 6:30 p.m. For more information and a schedule of upcoming movies, visit tahoedonner.com.

Friday, February 4: The Princess and the FrogFriday, February 11: HookFriday, February 18: Beauty and the BeastFriday, February 25: Cats & Dogs

Kids night OutKids ages 4 – 9 are invited to join in the fun the first Friday of every

month from 5 – 9 p.m. for an evening of crafts, a movie and more. Dinner as well as cookies and milk will be provided. Children must be at least four years of age to participate. Cost is $15. Register online at shoptd.tahoedonner.com at least 24 hours in advance. Click on the Events tab. For more information, contact the recreation coordinator at (530) 582-9646.

FUll mooN SNoWShoe ToURSEmbrace the beauty of the Sierra Nevadas as dusk turns into night

and treat your special someone to a Valentine’s Day Sunset Snowshoe on Monday, February 14, at 4:30 p.m. Pre-register online by Wednes-day, February 9.

Have you ever enjoyed a moonlit night in the snowy woods? Explore the trails of Tahoe Donner under the light of a full moon on Friday, February 18, from 5:30 – 8 p.m. An experience you won’t forget!

Cost is $7.50 per person if you have your own snowshoes; $15 with snowshoe rental. Sign up online at shoptd.tahoedonner.com; click on the Events tab to reserve your spot. For more information, contact the recreation coordinator at (530) 582-9646.

FRee memBeR gYm oRIeNTATIoNOnce a month, on the last Friday of the month, Trout Creek Rec-

reation Center staff offers new and existing members an orientation to the center’s facilities and programs. You will be introduced to the facility’s equipment and proper use by a certified personal trainer. The facility manager will then give a tour and highlight Trout Creek Recreation Center programs and facility policies. A perfect start to any fitness program; participants will receive a free fitness class pass for their participation. The member orientation for February is on Fri-day, February 25, at 4 p.m. For more information, contact Trout Creek Recreation Center at (530) 587-9437.


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TRUCKEE REGION BUCKS THE TREND WITH MAJOR PROJECTS

For the past couple years, economic news is something that perhaps should have been delivered along with a bottle of aspirin. Fortunately for folks in and around Truckee, it looks like the region is heading into another period of exciting growth. Just consider these projects:

sQuAW VALLeY usANorth Tahoe’s most famous ski resort (thanks to epic terrain and

the 1960 Olympics) was recently sold to KSL Capital Partners. KSL is a private equity firm with investments that include a number of upscale hotel properties, as well as ClubCorp, the world’s largest owner of private golf and business clubs. The company has already committed to more than $50 million in capital improvements at Squaw over the next 3 – 5 years, which is a pretty nice way to put a shine on their new property.

Squaw Valley’s new CEO, Andy Wirth, is working to create a master plan for the resort that addresses transportation issues, development of 86 acres at the base of the mountain (including lodging) and improved service levels. While details are sparse at the moment, the amount of capital and the experience of the team appear quite promising. Wirth has more than 24 years of experience in the mountain resort and hospi-tality management industry, most recently at Steamboat in Colorado.

nOrthstAr-At-tAhOeThis Truckee resort has been involved recently with most of the

major players in the ski industry. Just four years ago, the company that owned Northstar – Booth Creek Resort Properties – sold the resort and three others to CNL Income Properties. CNL’s business model is to make long-term lease agreements (REITs) with other companies, and Booth Creek signed up to do so for Northstar and a few other resorts. CNL currently owns 23 ski resorts and base area villages, among doz-ens of other golf courses and recreational facilities. Northstar’s base village has been growing by leaps and bounds in recent years; it now features 35 shops and restaurants in more than 100,000 square feet of commercial retail space, a conference center, a 9,000-square-foot skat-ing rink, on-site lodging and venues for special events. Last season, the growth continued with the new Ritz-Carlton Highlands hotel, featur-ing ski-in, ski-out access.

This past fall, another ski industry juggernaut – Vail Resorts - decided to join in the fun, purchasing from Booth Creek the lease of Northstar for $63 million. That brought Booth Creek, once the owner of eight resorts, down to just one: Sierra-at-Tahoe. If the story sounds familiar, just look at the boom and bust history of similar heavyweights in the skiing world such as Intrawest and the American Skiing Com-pany. However, regardless of their corporate owners, premier resorts like Northstar have navigated these waves pretty well and seen signifi-cant capital improvements. Customers don’t care much about the name on the deed, and from their perspective the experience has been improving.


Northstar joins nearby Heavenly as the two Tahoe gems in Vail Resorts’ portfolio. The company hasn’t announced capital plans for Northstar, but being sister resort with household names like Vail, Bea-ver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone seems to bode well. Simply tap-ping into that marketing machine should do good things for Truckee.

BridGe streetBringing more customers to town is a good thing, but it does bring

some less than thrilling impacts such as traffic. Town of Truckee staff members are already anticipating those needs. A couple weeks ago, they unveiled plans to improve the section of Bridge Street between Donner Pass Road and Church Street. On one side of that street is Bar of America and Pacific Crest, and on the other is the Truckee Hotel and Moody’s Bistro.

The owners of Bar of America and the Truckee Hotel are kicking in $100,000 to supplement $300,000 from the town for a number of traffic and aesthetic upgrades. While details haven’t been finalized, it’s safe to say that the space will have the feel of a boardwalk and will be designed so that it can be easily closed off for special events. Trees, outdoor seating and some kind of sculptural elements will make for a pleasant pedestrian experience. One of the more popular ideas is for “festoon” lighting, in which a string of lights would zig-zag over the street for a festive vibe.

At the moment, the plan for this section of Bridge Street is for just one lane of traffic in each direction. The parking layout could be changed in the future to accommodate an additional lane with any of these triggers: • A traffic light installation at the corner of Bridge and Donner

Pass roads• Development at the Truckee Railyard (see truckeerailyard.com

for more info on this multi-faceted project)• Connection to Tahoe Donner from Bridge Street• If all goes as planned, the improvements to Bridge Street would

be completed by July

tAhOe FOrest hOsPitAL /tAhOe FOrest CAnCer Center

One of the things a growing community needs is access to quality health care. In many cases, Truckee residents have been traveling great distances to get it. A major construction project underway on Donner Pass Road is about to address that problem.

In 2007, the voters of Tahoe Forest Hospital District passed Mea-sure C with an overwhelming 72% support. Measure C is a $98.5 million bond focused on an Emergency department, a cancer center, long-term care, women and infant’s health and seismic upgrades.

The Tahoe Forest Cancer Center opened its doors in 2006, saving many folks the 114 mile drive to the University of California, Davis. One of just over 60 National Cancer Institute rated hospitals in the country, UC Davis offers specialists in breast, prostate and a number of other cancers.

Growth in the number of local patients has greatly exceeded expec-tations. Over 2,100 cancer patients live in the TFCC’s service area today and the forecast is for an additional 300 diagnoses each year. After caring for over 900 patients last year, the center expects to care for over 1,600 people by 2018.

The center’s 34,000 square-foot, two story building will include:• Patient intake and reception, registration, a family waiting area

and a resource library• Medical oncology with eight infusion stations and a nurse station• Radiation Oncology, including a linear accelerator vault, PET

/CT medical imaging diagnostics, a physics lab and appropriate patient and staff support areas• A oncology clinic area including six exam rooms, a nurse

station, physician offices and tumor board/conference room with patient and staff support spaces

tAhOe dOnnerCloser to home, Tahoe Donner will also be busy over the next five

years, renovating and expanding facilities. Subject to board approval, around $15 million is expected to be spent (with no special assess-ment) on new buildings for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, Snowplay, the equestrian center, forestry, maintenance and stor-age. The Lodge Restaurant & Pub will get a new deck enclosure and expansion. Trout Creek will get a new solar heater for its pool system. Parking areas will be improved or expanded. In short, a wide variety of employees and businesses will be busy updating the association’s aging infrastructure.

All this growth in and around Truckee will have ripple effects on our schools, the composition of those who work and play here, our marketing efforts and how outsiders view the Truckee-Tahoe area.

It also means replacing that bottle of aspirin with a healthy dose of optimism.

RISInG STRucTuRE: TahoE foREST cancER cEnTER

hoSpITal conSTRucTIon SITE


D O N N E R PA SS ROA D

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This month, let’s dust off the left side of the brain to open up new, creative dimen-sions at the Nevada Museum of Art. Perhaps you’ve visited the museum itself, read about it on the magazine rack or know nothing of its existence. Either way, you’re in for a treat of mind quenching creative during each visit.

The Nevada Museum of Art has been gaining recognition for its fantastic behavior combining exhibitions, exploration, artist openings, yummy onsite food and a fantas-tic learning center with an abundant list of creative exuberance.

Excursion Check List:

Camera

A bright smile

Inquisition

An open mind

Appetite for modern architecture

This month features an exhibition titled “John James Audobon and The Birds of America.” John James Audubon was an explorer, naturalist, writer, and one of the most important artists of the nineteenth century. From 1820 to 1838, he traversed the eastern and central United States to depict nearly five-hundred species of birds—giv-ing special attention to the complex inter-relationships between the animals and their natural habitats.

For all of you hopeful snowbirds, this may ignite your inner fire. If not, check out the

museum learning center for an in-depth list of recurring classes. The photo class gets the COMDEP nudge. Visit nevadaart.org for more information.

This is the second part of 2011’s Day Excursion column. Stay tuned to upcom-ing issues for more great excursions. If you have an idea to share, please email [email protected].


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BULLETINBOARD

FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION INFORMATION

In the October 2010 Tahoe Donner News (page 20), the Forestry Department provided important information regarding the Fire Safety/Forest Health program for 2011. The article listed the geographical areas where the property inspections would be completed (Units 3, 11 and the north portion of Unit 4; including

upper Skislope Way, Slalom Way, Snowpeak Way, Chalet Road, Skiview Loop, Tyrol Road, Glacier View, Swiss Lane, Sun Valley Road, Lucerne Lane, Edelweiss Place, Cristallina Way, Viking Way, upper Rhineland Avenue and addresses between 13854 and 14729 Northwoods Blvd). These inspections were completed last fall and the owners of properties that passed the initial inspection were notified by mail or email that their property is in compliance. If you are in the inspection area and did not receive this notification, your property is not in compliance and will require fuel reduction work to be completed during the summer of 2011. The official notification to property owners not in compliance will be mailed beginning on May 16, 2011. The notification will include a cover letter describing the Fire Safety/Forest Health program, your inspection sheet showing the areas needing correction and a list of local contractors available to do the work. Included in the cover letter will be the date the Tahoe Donner Forestry Department will be re-inspecting your property (scheduled to be 45 days after the date of mailing). Some of these documents will not be available until the end of April 2011.

If you would like any or all of your paperwork sent to you before the May 16 mailing period, please contact the Architectural Standards Office at (530) 587-9406 or by email at [email protected]. Your paperwork can be mailed or emailed to you. These properties currently have a tremendous amount of snow on them and the required work cannot be completed until the snow melts. Owners who have their properties for sale are encouraged to request their inspection forms so the information can be shared with any prospective buyers. aRchITEcTuRal STandaRdS STaff

Early autumn leaves changing color

OCTOBER 2010


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describe a few lines in the park. Between the two parks, there is a whole array of lines. From the Bite

Size progressive jib line, and jump line, to the skateboard inspired lines in the Kings Size jib section and “Payday” booters seen directly under the Eagle Rock Chair.

What ability levels will this attract? Well, Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area’s slogan is “The Best Place to

Begin” and we are striving to make that the truth in the parks as well. Along with offering a stellar progression park for the first-time park rider, we are hoping to gain a share in the market of dedicated park rid-ers within our area.

What else do you have in the hopper? You’ll have to come up and check it out to see for yourself! Definitely

look for some new and totally imaginative features in coming weeks, along with some fun events and competitions throughout the season!

“Appealing to both kids and adults alike, Candyland Parks would be a place where something sweet is always around the next turn!”



meThoDPie CrustPulse all ingredients together in a food processor until the butter is the size of peas. Line a spring form pan with crust. Set aside.

FillingCombine sugar, corn starch and cocoa in a sauce pot, add yolks, milk and cream and whisk until smooth. Heat to a boil, stirring constantly, and remove from heat. Add chocolate, vanilla, and butter. Whisk until smooth and melted. Pour filling into crust and cool.

toppingWhip 3 cups of cream to soft peaks with powdered sugar totaste and 1 tsp of vanilla reserve. Whip 3 very ripe bananas‘til smooth and fold into cream. Cover the pie with topping,and enjoy.

This recipe will yield : 1 Pie

INgReDIeNTSPie Crust• 1 1/2 cup Oreo cookie crumble• Cinnamon• 1/2 cup brown sugar• 1 stick butter• Topping• 3 cups whipping cream• 1 tsp vanilla• 3 bananas

Filling• 1/2 cup sugar• 1/4 cup corn starch• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder• Salt• 4 large egg yolks• 2 cups milk• 1/2 cup whipping cream• 5 ounces bittersweet chocolate• 1 tbsp butter• 1 tsp vanilla

from the kitchen of LEW ORLADY, ThE lodGE | eXeCutiVe CheF

CHOCOLATE BANANA CREAM PIE

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Michelle Chiarlo “nivole”– Muscato d’astiMoscato dAsti is one of the most sublime and delicate of all dessert wines. Its very low level of alcohol

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when wines of greater alcoholic content have typically been consumed beforehand. The name “Nivole,”

which means “clouds” in Piedmontese dialect, appropriately suggests the wines airy, elegant quality

The fragrant, intensely fruity bouquet, offset by musky notes, leads to a refined sweetness supported by

an excellent acid balance on the palate, with a suggestion of effervescence in the texture. The finish is

clean and crisp, with a persistent flavor of grape and citrus characteristic of the variety.


TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

SPecIAl BoARD meeTINg mINUTeS SUmmARYJANUARY 21, 2011

The Board of Directors, Staff, General Plan, & Finance Committees discussed the 2030 General Plan (Draft). Following discussion, the board approved publishing the 2030 General Plan (Draft) for member comment.

RegUlAR BoARD meeTINg mINUTeS SUmmARYJANUARY 22, 2011• Director Resignation: No Action

President Ron Wulff announced the resignation of Vice President Robert Burks, due to unforeseen significant changes in his professional life, effective immediately. Mr. Wulff indicated that the board would solicit and appoint a new board member to finish out Director Burks’ term.

• Consent Calendar: Approved · Election Committee Appointment (Shaver) · Employee Holiday Benefit Change to Paid Time Off · New Investment Broker · Pricing Rates Review

• Revision of Personal Property Storage Rule: No Action The board discussed a request from the Covenants Committee to make changes to this Association rule. This item was placed on the February 18, 2011, board agenda for further discussion.

• Committee Tasks for 2011: No Action Committee Chairs were provided an opportunity to offer input regarding assigned “Tasks” which were approved at the December 18, 2010, board meeting.

• Financial Reports: No action The board was provided with a brief review of the December preliminary financials. A complete “Financial Report” for December 2010 and January 2011 will be presented for approval at the February 18, 2011, regular board meeting.

• Resolution 2009-5 Conducting Membership Surveys: Approved 3-1 ( Knisley No) The board approved the rescission of this association policy.

These summaries are intended for general information purposes only. The minutes are available at tahoedonner.com, upon request in the General Manager’s office or by calling (530) 587-9431. A copy of the minutes and current agenda are posted outside the Member Services Office in Northwoods Clubhouse.

• Financial Drivers of the Association: No Action This item was removed from the agenda.

• 2011 Election Process: Approved 4-0 Election Committee Chair, Nan Carnal, provided the board with proposed revisions to the 2011 Election Procedures. Following discussion, the board approved tasking the Election Committee with the preparation of the 2011 Election Proc- dures with the proposed revisions for board consideration at the February 18, 2011 Board meeting.

• Officer Positions: Consensus Due to the resignation of Director Robert Burks, by consensus, the board approved the appointment of Director Suzan Knisley as Tahoe Donner Association’s Vice President.

NoTIceSTEP UP AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN TAHOE DONNER

Become a tahoe donner Board MemberDue to the resignation of a member of the Tahoe Donner Board

of Directors, there is an immediate opening on the five-member Board. Per the association’s governing documents, the remaining four board members are tasked with appointing a replacement director to finish the term the resigning director (in this case through June 2012).

Any Tahoe Donner member is eligible for appointment by the board. If you are a home owner in a good standing and wish to apply, please send a brief description of your qualifications to Board Presi-dent Ron Wulff at the following email address: [email protected]


CONVERSATION HEARTS FOR YOUR LOVED ONE

Saint Valentine’s Day, commonly known as Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and what better way to show your affection for someone then by making them oversized conversation hearts! Everyone has had their share of those little edible, delightfully chalky hearts with cute sayings on them, but why not make your own version that will last beyond the holiday. Using salt dough, some creativity and a quick bake in the oven you can create your own love notes to your Valentine this year. This would also be a fun project for kids to make with their parents, skipping the typical cartoon themed, store bought variety that are distributed in most classrooms. This year, be unique and create something handmade!

The final touch, if you desire to preserve your conversation hearts: place them on a cookie sheet and put them in the oven at 350° for 30 minutes. Let them cool… and TA-DA you have your own custom Valentines.

IMPORTANT: This dough is not recommended for eating. Although all ingredients are non-toxic and safe food products, the dough isn’t that tasty. Once baked, these hearts make a thoughtful desk toy.

Supplies List:

1 cup Flour

2 tsp Cream of Tartar

1 cup Water

Food Coloring

Toothpick or Skewer

1/4 cup Salt

2 tbsp Oil

1 tsp vanilla or peppermint extract (optional)

Heart-shapped Cookie Cutter

step 1: Prepare flour, salt, cream of tartar, oil, water in a medium sauce pan.

step 2: Cook over medium heat, adding food coloring and extract for a delightful smell. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the dough comes together.

step 3: Transfer the dough to the counter and knead for a minute until shiny, smooth and pliable. Hint: You may want to wait a few minutes for the dough to be just slightly warm to the touch before kneading.

step 5: Using a tooth pick or skewer (chopsticks works well too) carve your desired “love” message into your heart.

step 4: Roll out the dough with a rolling pin and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter in any size to make your heart.


cabo san lucas, mexico The Schwermann’s relaxing

at Cabo San Lucas .

istanbul, turkeySuzanne and Lewis Tanenbaum

at the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.

moab, utah Marilyn and Ron Modafferi traveled to Arches National Park, Moab, UT and Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, WY.

alaskaPat and John Kessler, Tony and Mary Ellen crossing

Resurrection Bay out of Seward, AK to see the glaciers.

©2011 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company.Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office Is Owned And Operated by NRT LLC. DRE License # 00313415. Based on information from Tahoe Sierra Board of Realtors for the period 1/1/10 through 12/31/10. Due to MLS reporting methods and allowable reporting policy, this data is only informational and may not be completely accurate. Therefore, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage does not

guarantee the data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS’s may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

Tahoe Donner17400 Northwoods Boulevard 530.582.9775

Donner Pass12068 Donner Pass Road 530.587.7474

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