Tahoe Donner News + Life August 2026

Tahoe Donner NEWS + LIFE

August 2026

EDITORIAL + PRODUCTION TEAM

Lindsay Hogan Drew Deurlington Carlynne Fajkos Cynthia Cendreda Camy Marotta

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 | Nicholas Rab nrab@tahoedonner.com

Vice Treasurer | 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

Members First became a core Tahoe Donner governing principle through the Amenity Access Rule. The upcoming Community Plan gives us the opportunity to make it the foundation for our community’s future.

When the board approved the Amenity Access Rule in 2024, we understood that the project was much more than a technical update. It was about our community’s core values and principles. By removing barriers to member use, including costs, complications and crowds, the rule makes private amenity access a core member right and benefit and invites members to feel at home again in the amenities we all co-own and jointly support. The rule put Members First.

While this principle first found concrete expression in the Amenity Access Rule, Members First governance reaches beyond amenity access to belong at the center of Tahoe Donner’s long-range planning.

Members First.

The phrase can carry different meanings in different contexts, but two consistent themes stand out.

First, it recognizes that members are the owners, funders, stewards and beneficiaries of the community. Tahoe Donner’s governance, operations and planning should honor, protect and enhance the rights, benefits, enjoyment and long-term value of membership.

Second, Members First should not be confused with Members Only. The “first” recognizes our primary responsibility to our members, while also recognizing responsibilities beyond our membership. Tahoe Donner is part of the broader Truckee region, where shared interests and mutual responsibilities call for cooperation and neighborly goodwill.

Our Community Plan.

These same Members First themes now guide the board and staff as we prepare to launch the Tahoe Donner Community Plan. This effort will look deeper than traditional capital improvement plans and more broadly than the Trails Master Plan and Land Management Plan. As Tahoe Donner’s most comprehensive long-range planning

effort in more than 15 years, the plan will align our member experience, amenities, operations and stewardship around a shared vision for Tahoe Donner’s future.

Looking Back.

For those of us with long Tahoe Donner memories, talk of the future naturally stirs nostalgia for Tahoe Donner’s past.

As a child in the early 1980s, I learned to ski at our Cross Country Ski Center’s original location, behind the Clubhouse, in Bennett Flat Meadow.

When my family returned to Tahoe Donner in the 1990s, some streets still felt half empty with vacant lots. The Lodge Restaurant & Pub did not exist. The Lodge Pavilion was a swimming pool. Alder Creek Adventure Center was a horse barn.

Trout Creek Rec Center had only recently been built and was less than half the size it is today. The trail system that today is so central to Tahoe Donner’s community character barely existed.

Back then, the wildfire, forest health, insurance and emergency preparedness challenges that consume our attention today hardly entered our minds.

Such nostalgia should remind us that the future is never merely the elaboration of the past.

Looking Forward.

We cannot predict every challenge and opportunity the years ahead will bring, but we can prepare thoughtfully. That is the purpose of the Community Plan: to protect the strength and vibrancy of our community, prepare our association for the years ahead and ensure Tahoe Donner faces the future on its own terms.

Along with staff and the entire board, I look forward to the conversations we will have with our members in the coming years about Tahoe Donner’s future.

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

Foal in Love With Tahoe Donner’s Equestrian Community

BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA

The Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center is widely recognized by North Tahoe equestrians as an exceptional stable, boarding facility and jumping-off point for Tahoe Donner members and the TruckeeTahoe community to experience what horses have to offer. Open to Tahoe Donner members and the public, the Equestrian Center offers full-day horsemanship camps for kids, private lessons, pony rides for our youngest children to gain early exposure to the joy of riding and a host of wellness and community events throughout the summer season.

Established in 1972 and then updated alongside the construction of the Alder Creek Adventure Center, the Equestrian Center has been in operation for over 50 years, helping people to discover or deepen their love for the equestrian lifestyle, one pony ride, day camps, or community barbecue at a time. While its offerings have evolved over the past five decades, the Equestrian Center remains a unique facility for discovering the infinite rewards of equine partnership, whether in the saddle or simply in the company of these fine animals.

Learning Programs

From camps and private lessons to workshops and clinics taught by renowned guest instructors, the Equestrian Center is not only a place to learn basic horsemanship but also to develop confidence and connection with their equine partners. Full-day camps are offered from mid-June through midAugust and allow kids the opportunity to gain fundamental horsemanship skills, including grooming, tacking, arena and groundwork, trail riding and more. Private lessons are offered from mid-June through mid-October and are tailored to the rider’s abilities and goals.

More recently, the Equestrian Center has collaborated with Circus Cowgirl Kansas Carradine, a celebrated trick rider and former performer and trainer for Cavalia, an international production company specializing in live equestrian shows. Kansas brings her trick riding expertise to her Circus Cowgirl Kids Camps, where she helps beginner riders build confidence in

the saddle while learning horsemanship fundamentals in a playful, supportive and western-themed environment.

A New Place for Equine-Assisted Therapies + Wellness

Studies show that equine-assisted therapies carry many benefits for experienced riders and non-equestrians alike. According to Psychology Today, a horse’s hypersensitivity allows them to become especially attuned and responsive to human behavior and emotion, acting as a “mirror” for both direct and non-verbal cues from their handlers. In guided sessions with equine specialists, horses offer immediate biofeedback, allowing patients to gain greater selfawareness and practice emotional regulation with a non-judgmental partner. Such interactions can foster trust and empathy, enhance communication and promote presence and mindfulness, alleviating such conditions as low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss.

In addition to being a trick rider and trainer, Kansas is also a HeartMath® Certified Trainer and SkyHorse Equine Guided Educator who guides people in recalibrating their nervous systems alongside horses. Using methods of gentle connection and somatic, mind-body alignment with an equine partner, Kansas helps handlers/riders develop what she calls an authentic presence, whether on the ground, in the saddle or as an intentional approach to one’s life. Kansas offers opportunities for both equestrians and non-riders to benefit from her education and expertise. Upcoming events include a new unmounted Women’s Harmony With Horses Workshop and a mounted HeartBased Horsemanship Clinic.

Alternatively, hippotherapy is defined by the American Hippotherapy Institute as an integrated physical, occupational or speech therapy tool that utilizes the rhythmic, three-dimensional gait of a horse to engage a patient’s sensory, neuromotor and cognitive systems. Conducted by licensed professionals, hippotherapy can be used to improve balance, posture, mobility and communication skills. Hippotherapy does not teach horsemanship or riding skills, but instead allows the rider to make subtle postural and motor adjustments.

Dr. Irina Fedulow Plante is an experienced Western and endurance rider, licensed physical therapist and boardcertified neurologic clinical specialist who treats equestrians for orthopedic and neurological injuries, often incorporating hippotherapy methods into her practice. She also serves as the program director of the Achieve Tahoe Adaptive Horsemanship Program and is a certified yoga and equestrian yoga instructor.

Dr. Plante is offering unmounted workshops in August and September to help equestrians improve their functional strength and riding mechanics or apply equine neuroscience to enhance horsemanship and the horse/human connection.

Equestrian Center Community Events

At its core, the Equestrian Center is more than a stable and riding facility; it’s a gathering place where everyone can delight in the joys of horses. From evening barbecues or early morning pancakes and pony rides to the annual Wild West Fest high-country hoe-down, the Equestrian Center’s events offer endless opportunities to experience and celebrate Tahoe Donner’s equestrian culture and community.

Don’t Miss These Exciting Upcoming Events:

Pancakes + Ponies

Fuel up on a hearty pancake breakfast, followed by a pony ride for the little ones. Riders must be 2-6 years old and less than 60 pounds.

When: Saturdays, Aug. 8 + Aug. 22 | 9-11AM

Cost: $45 breakfast + pony ride | $20 breakfast only

Equestrian Poker Ride Challenge

A fun checkpoint challenge on the Tahoe Donner Trail System just for equestrians!

When: Sunday, Aug. 9 | 9AM-1PM

Cost: $25 per person; includes one complimentary drink ticket

Cowgirls + Cocktails

An evening trail ride followed by social hour with beer, wine and appetizers. Cowgirls and cowboys welcome; must be 21 and over.

When: Saturday, Sept. 12 | 5-7PM

Cost: Member without horse $85 | Member with horse $55 | Public without horse $100 | Public with horse $70

7th Annual Wild West Fest

Enjoy a taste of the old frontier with a ranch-style barbecue, live music, equestrian performances, pony rides, a petting zoo and other Western-inspired activities.

When: Saturday, Sept. 5 | 4:30-7:30PM

Cost: Member adults (31+) $15 | Member kids (3-12) $10 | Public adults (13+) $20 | Public kids (3-12) $15 | Kids (0-2) FREE

To see a complete list of community events, clinics and workshops visit tahoedonner.com/events

Boarding Facilities + Trail Access

From mid-June through mid-October, the Equestrian Center offers short- and longterm boarding facilities for TD members, Truckee residents and beyond who want to keep their horses close by in the summer months, or for visitors with horses, all of whom are looking to explore the Tahoe Donner Trail System and other High-Sierra trails on horseback.

The full-service boarding includes basic or deluxe partially covered paddocks, twice-daily feedings of up to two flakes of grass, alfalfa and/or teff hay, daily watering and cleaning. Boarders are given their own closet in a tack shed to store their personal equipment, as well as use of at least one section of the arena for most of the season.

The Equestrian Center offers direct access to the vast Tahoe Donner Trail System, with connectors to other major trail networks, including the Donner Lake Rim Trail and the Johnson Canyon Trail. Riders can enjoy the solitude of pine forests, sprawling meadows, meandering creeks and bursts of wildflowers on wellmaintained doubletrack or equestrian and hiker-only singletrack trails. Trail users are encouraged to practice proper trail etiquette, with all hikers and bikers yielding to horses, and all faster travelers announcing themselves before passing.

For full hours, details and offerings, visit tahoedonner.com/equestrian

TAHOE DONNER GOLF COURSE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

BY LINDSAY HOGAN, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION AND MEMBER RELATIONS

It's Fire Season –Are You Prepared?

BY BILL SELINE, TAHOE DONNER RISK + SAFETY MANAGER

Each summer, wildfire risk grows with warmer weather, low relative humidity, strong winds and lightning strikes. Below is a quickreference guide to fire weather watches, red flag warnings and seasonal fire bans, as well as tips for staying informed and prepared.

FIRE WEATHER WATCH + RED FLAG WARNINGS

Established by the National Weather Service, fire weather watches in California are issued when conditions conducive to wildfire – including warm weather, low relative humidity and strong winds – may occur within 12-72 hours. RED FLAG warnings are the highest alert during a fire weather watch.

DURING A RED FLAG WARNING:

• Residents and visitors to the area are urged to exercise extreme caution, take measures to prevent wildfires and plan for a possible evacuation. Consider staying out of high-risk areas during RED FLAG events, if possible.

• ALL open flames are prohibited within the boundaries of the Truckee Fire Protection District (this includes gas flame and other outdoor cooking devices normally exempt under the District’s seasonal burn ban ordinance).

• The use of power tools for home and yard maintenance is strongly discouraged

• Visit ReadyNevadaCounty.org/EmergencyAlerts to sign up to receive red flag alerts and all other emergency alerts from Truckee Fire Protection District.

• If you see any violation of these guidelines during an active red flag warning, do not hesitate to call 911. These warnings are issued to prevent a major incident, and community vigilance is always appreciated.

To learn more about red flag alerts and other fire-related warnings from the National Weather Service, visit weather.gov/fire.

PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE WEATHER

Watching the weather can offer important clues about the possibility of a fast-moving fire spreading out of control:

• Is there an incoming weather system that will bring wind?

• Are there other fires burning in the region?

• Are dry thunderstorms predicted (no rain)?

• Is there wind predicted, especially in the afternoon or evenings? Visit forecast.weather.gov for up-to-date weather information.

STAY ALERT

Tahoe Donner residents are urged to remain aware of wildfire threats within the area, take measures to reduce the risks of fire dangers and ensure they and their families are prepared in the event of an evacuation. Various resources are available online to help homeowners address defensible space around their homes and devise a plan in the event of an evacuation.

Sign Up for Emergency Notifications

Be sure to register with Ready Nevada County to receive all emergency-related notifications by visiting ReadyNevadaCounty.org/EmergencyAlerts or truckeepolice.gov/disaster-preparedness

Know Your Zone

Visit ReadyNevadaCounty.org/EvacuationZones or protect.genasys.com to determine your evacuation zone so that you are prepared if evacuations become necessary.

Keep Alerts Active

Keep your cell phone ringer on – including at night –during wildfire season.

Practice Defensible Space

Visit tahoedonner.com/defensible-space to learn more about Tahoe Donner’s defensible space programs.

Be Ready for Emergencies

Visit tahoedonner.com/emergency-preparedness to learn more about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

Truckee Fire Protection District

Seasonal Burn Ban Ordinance

Each year, the Truckee Fire Protection District implements a ban on backyard-type campfires, bonfires and barbecues that may use wood, charcoal or briquettes. The ban typically extends through November and is implemented to prevent wildfires caused by unattended or improperly extinguished residential campfires.

SEASONAL BURN BAN ORDINANCE IN EFFECT AS OF JUNE 15, 2026.

Causes of Extreme Fire Danger

The buildup of dry fuels

Drought or dry conditions

Accidental fires in populated areas; people start 95% of wildfires

Escaped campfires and barbecues

Strong winds, low humidity and high temps

What is allowed

Gas campfires

Gas portable or built-in fire pits

Gas barbecues

Wood pellet fuel-based barbecues and smokers that are well contained –all particles must be fully consumed to ash prior to disposal

NOTE: None of the above are allowed on RED FLAG days.

What is Banned

Residential campfires/ bonfires that burn anything other than gas Barbecues that burn solid fuel (like charcoal briquettes, wood or lump charcoal)

Big Green Egg barbecues

Briquette fuelbased smokers

Wood shavings that are generally added for flavor to smokers and gas grills (like applewood and others)

What is Exempt

Federal and State campgrounds

Tahoe Donner Campground does NOT allow wood or charcoal fires

Day-use picnic areas

Community picnic areas with a valid permit

Outdoor special event commercial cooking with a valid permit

Tahoe Donner Rules + More

Tahoe Donner does not allow wood or charcoal fires at the Tahoe Donner Campground, Beach Club Marina or other amenities. Per the Association Covenants rules, all homeowners and visitors must also comply with the seasonal burn ban ordinance. Additionally, all outdoor fires are prohibited on private lots, common areas or other association-owned properties at any time.

Report any burning to 911. Visit tahoedonner.com/covenants or email compliance@tahoedonner.com to learn more about fire-related covenants, yard debris burning, the building of permanent outdoor barbecues or other fire-burning devices.

To learn more about the seasonal burn ban ordinance and red flag warnings in the Truckee-Tahoe area, visit truckeefire.org.

Dry grass is one of the most common fuels for fast-moving wildfires. A single spark can quickly ignite dry vegetation, especially along roadsides and around homes. Taking a few simple precautions can greatly reduce the risk.

• Avoid mowing or using outdoor power equipment on hot, windy days.

• Mow early in the morning (before 10AM) when temperatures are cooler, the wind is lighter, and the humidity is higher.

• Keep seasonal grasses and weeds cut to 4 inches or less around your home and along roads and driveways.

• Never park on dry grass. Hot exhaust systems can ignite vegetation under your vehicle.

• Make sure trailer safety chains don’t drag on the road. Dragging chains can create sparks that ignite roadside grass.

• Carry a hose, shovel and fire extinguisher when working outdoors to quickly extinguish a small fire before it spreads.

KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO GO

In the event of a nearby wildfire, fire and law enforcement authorities will inform the community about evacuation warnings and orders. However, communication systems can sometimes become overloaded.

If you are seeing smoke or fire and are not sure what to do, don’t wait for a notice, just GO early! There are no “safe” places to wait for a fire to pass in Tahoe Donner; it’s best to leave the area.

Some other things you can do to prepare for an evacuation:

HAVE A GO BAG PACKED AND READY

Save time in an evacuation. Include items like:

• Some food and water

• Change of clothes

• First aid kit and flashlight

• Prescriptions and medications

• Credit cards and cash

• Food and water for pets

• Copy of important documents (e.g., birth certificates, passports)

• Consider irreplaceable items (e.g., family photos, computer data)

HI-LO MEANS TIME TO GO!

Local emergency agencies may drive through the neighborhood using a Hi-Lo Siren to alert the community to evacuate. Learn more at townoftruckee.gov/547/hi-lo-siren.

ESTABLISH AN EVACUATION PLAN

Make sure family, friends and/or renters know where to go, what to take and at least two ways out of the neighborhood.

Learn more about emergency preparation at readyforwildfire.org

ABOUT BILL SELINE

Tahoe Donner Risk + Safety Manager Bill Seline is a former fire chief for the Truckee Fire Protection District, with additional experience in senior operations roles at both waterpark and golf management companies. He has also served as a ski patroller, an avalanche and wilderness medicine instructor and a licensed paramedic, giving him a uniquely well-rounded perspective on operational, seasonal and recreational risk environments.

Seline holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor’s in Occupational Safety and Health, supporting a career dedicated to building safety cultures and improving employee and guest safety.

Beyond a Nature Walk

How the Glacier Way Interpretive Trail Experience Celebrates Washoe History and Heritage

BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA

The land on which much of Tahoe Donner stands was once part of the Dit' eh hu’, or vast ancestral territory of the Waší∙šiw (Washoe) people, encompassing the western arid Great Basin region of Nevada and the forested Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. For thousands of years, the tribe lived in harmony with the natural cycles of Da ow aga, or Lake Tahoe and its periphery. Long before the California Gold Rush brought European settlers to the area, the Washoe were deeply connected to the environment and their way of life profoundly influenced by each season’s unique bounty.

To learn about their subsistence way of life, which endured for millennia before industrialization gave way to modern society, is to appreciate (and hopefully internalize) what peaceful coexistence with nature can sustain, at the individual and societal levels. It is this community and sustainability mindset, intrinsic to the Washoe Tribe, that remains Tahoe Donner’s inspiration for the Glacier Way Interpretive Trail.

Included in the 2022 Trails Master Plan, the interpretive trail is the latest feature to enhance the popular Glacier Way trailhead. Last summer, the parking lot was expanded to alleviate overflow parking on residential streets, and a permanent restroom facility was installed for the comfort and convenience of trail users. Once completed, the relatively flat, five-foot-wide and half-mile-long walking path of decomposed granite will loop through 50 acres of forested land immediately off the trailhead.

The trail is intended to create a tranquil and immersive nature experience while remaining accessible to leisurely walkers, strollers and anyone using adaptive devices to support mobility. Featuring vistas, benches, passing/rest areas and educational signage

highlighting local flora and fauna and other unique facts about the land, Tahoe Donner invited the Washoe Tribe to collaborate on the information included. As the original inhabitants of the area, dating back thousands of years, the association felt it appropriate to include their important history and heritage as part of the experience.

A Society Sustained by the Changing Seasons

The Washoe lived in accordance with the season’s offerings. Am suk (spring) began the yearly cycle, where the tribe’s winter stores of pine nut flour, seeds, dried meat, and some fresh fish and meat carried them over until their vegetable harvests of bulb plants and early grasses became available. As soon as weather permitted, the younger adults began to make their way to the shores of Lake Tahoe, where by Ci’ gah bet (summer), the rest of the tribe would gather to socialize and play games, fish and gather

up the lake’s many offerings, including piñon pine nuts, acorns, berries, wild rhubarb, cat tail seeds, tiger lily seeds, sunflower seeds, wild onions, wild mustard, wild spinach, wild potatoes and sweet potatoes, tule root, wild turnips, wild celery, Camas flowers and countless other edible and medicinal plants.

During O’ osh (fall), they hunted small and large game: rabbits, squirrels, marmots, sagehens, quail, waterfowl, mule deer, antelope and big horn sheep, all fattened up from a summer of foraging on the plentiful vegetation. They harvested whitefish during their spawning season, taking mostly males so as not to disrupt the reproductive cycle and preserved their seasonal harvests for winter through drying, roasting or other methods. And once the bulk of their winter preparation was finished, they retreated to lowland valleys for warmer weather.

In Galais (winter), the Washoe settled into a more reclusive way of life in the lower elevation Washoe Valley, with their immediate family members in their Galais dungal (winter houses). Around a campfire they shared stories and passed down generations of ancestral history, knowledge and traditions. Huddled together for the coldest months, they used this time to rest and rejuvenate. They built and repaired tools for hunting and fishing, wove baskets with wild grasses, or made clothing of buckskin and blankets from animal pelts. And they reinforced the familial and tribal bonds that allowed their subsistence lifestyle and culture to endure for nearly 12,000 years.

Though faint, echoes of the Washoe Tribe and their oncesignificant presence still linger throughout the area. Having integrated into mainstream society during the gold rush era and subsequent railway and logging industries, or having migrated to tribal lands on the outskirts of their once vast territory, the remaining Washoe work with federal and state agencies and private landowners to protect and preserve sites that remain important and sacred to their history and heritage.

Imparting Washoe Wisdom

Trails Manager Leslie Loveland worked with the Truckee River Watershed Council to invite members of the Washoe Tribe to incorporate their history into the Glacier Way Interpretive Trail signage. A fundamental part of the project, this important collaboration will allow trail visitors to learn about the Washoe’s ancestral connection to the land on which Tahoe Donner is built and gain an appreciation for the tribe’s enduring culture and heritage. Loveland adds, “Working with the Washoe Tribe has been a truly enlightening experience. Learning about the history of the land directly from members of the Washoe Tribe, with the understanding that this knowledge has been passed down for thousands of years, is remarkable. We’re so privileged to now inhabit this place and become its stewards.”

A Place to Reflect

Designed with solitude in mind, the trail endeavors to be a quiet corner along the Tahoe Donner Trail System, a place to fully and peacefully immerse oneself in the forest’s tranquility, observe nature’s magic and mystique, or perhaps ponder how differently we live through and experience each passing season.

It is also a place to celebrate the rich history of the Washoe, the land’s original inhabitants and stewards, and reflect on how we, too, can live harmoniously with the environment and preserve our natural surroundings for generations to come.

Join the Trails team for an interpretive trail project tour on Aug. 5 from 3-5PM by registering at tahoedonner.com/glacier-way-trailhead. To learn more about the Glacier Way Interpretive Trail Project, visit tahoedonner.com/new-glacier-way-trail-feature.

About the New Trail

The Glacier Way Interpretive Trail is an accessible walking path suitable for leisurely walkers and those using strollers or mobility aids. The trail features vistas, resting/passing areas, benches and educational signage highlighting local flora and fauna, as well as Washoe history and heritage.

Trail Features

Trail Type: Loop Length: 0.5 miles

Difficulty Rating: Easy Elevation Gain/Loss: Less than 10 feet

Terrain: Flat, smooth, compacted decomposed granite material

Dogs: Yes Bikes: No

Tables: Yes

Buzz The

LOCAL ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, DINING + MORE

Wide World of Sports

July was an action-packed month for international sports. From the FIFA World Cup to Wimbledon, I found myself torn between watching sports and playing them. Sure, the weather was spectacular – I mean, as good as it gets for a Truckee-Tahoe summer – but so was the competition and camaraderie! There is something so contagiously unifying about watching the world’s greatest athletes go toe to toe for the love of the game in two of the most prestigious sports competitions. The passion, the celebration, the highs and lows, man, it was good!

Back in our little corner of the world, as we enter the last long arc of summer, the games continue, with weeks of golf, racket sports, mountain biking, trail running and more to go. And without the excitement and suspense of professional soccer and tennis to distract us (at least until the U.S. Open begins on Aug. 23), it’s time to lock in and start hitting those summer goals. Whether it’s breaking 72 at the Golf Course, improving your rating at the Tennis + Pickleball Center, hitting a personal best on the trails or just soaking up as much of the season as you can, it’s all-in August, baby, let’s gooooo.

Wet + Wild Fun

With summer temperatures maxing, cool off with an array of water-based activities in Tahoe Donner:

Wibit Floating Water Park at the Trout Creek Rec. Center

Wednesday, Aug. 5 | 5-7PM

Don’t miss the final Wibit Wednesday, when the Trout Creek Rec Pool transforms into the ultimate aquatic park and obstacle course!

SUP

Yoga at the Beach Club Marina

Sundays through Aug. 30 | 8:15-9:15

Please note: The Beach Club Marina and Trout Creek Rec Center are private amenities. A valid Member ID Card, personal guest access or a short-term tenant card is required for entry; Daily Access Fees apply for all non-members. See the monthly event calendar on page 18 or visit tahoedonner.com/events for additional information on these and other community activities.

Dining Deals + Happy Hours

Unwind, reconnect and challenge yourself with a unique SUP yoga experience on beautiful Donner Lake. Paddleboards provided; no experience necessary!

Cardboard Regatta at the Beach Club Marina

Saturday, Aug. 1 | 12 PM

Teams of two create boats out of cardboard and duct tape for a race to the buoy and back. Build your boats in advance, race starts at 12PM!

Scavenger Hunt at the Beach Club Marina

Sunday, Aug. 2 | 12PM

The Beach Club Marina’s annual scavenger hunt is a fun, family-friendly competition that takes you on a lakeside adventure. At least one participant must be 18 and older.

Learn

to

eFoil on Donner Lake

Have you ever wanted to fly over Donner Lake? Now you can! EFoil Tahoe will be at Beach Club Marina every Friday and Saturday (with more days added as demand grows) for eFoil lessons and rentals right from the beach. Learn more at tahoedonner.com/marina

Pizza on the Hill

First Responders’ Discount: Thank you for your service! To show our appreciation, enjoy $7 draft beers and house wine and 25% off appetizers any time you stop in.

The Lodge Restaurant & Pub and Lodge Pavilion

• Member Mondays: Members and their guests can enjoy 20% off their entire dine-in food bill for up to six people, excluding alcohol. Bring your friends and family! Minimum one valid Member ID Card required per group; cannot be combined with any other promotion. For details, visit tahoedonner.com/the-lodge

• Social Hour: From 3-5PM daily, sip and savor a light menu, $7 draft beer and $8 house wine and well cocktails at The Lodge Pavilion – the perfect watering hole following your round of golf!

Alder Creek Cafe

• Happy Hour Tacos + Beer: Stop by for happy hour Wednesday through Sunday from 4-6PM for a $15 Tacos (2) + Beer special, as well as $7 draft beers and house wine. It’s the perfect excuse to extend your trail adventure by cooling off with great food, drinks and meadow views.

Beach Club Marina

• Lakeside Drink Specials: Monday through Thursday, from 11AM-6PM, members with a valid Member ID Card can enjoy $5 Slalom Lager and Long Drinks and $3 off all blended drinks!

To learn more about all dining options, see page 17 for hours, or visit the web at tahoedonner.com/dining for menus and more.

TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS + HOURS

Beach Club Marina (530) 587-9460

tahoedonner.com/marina marina@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily | 7AM-9PM

Marina Grill

Open Daily | 11AM-6PM

Extended Bar Hours

Friday | 11AM-7PM

Saturday-Sunday | 10AM-7PM

Bikeworks (530) 582-9694

tahoedonner.com/bikeworks bikeworks@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily | 9AM-6PM

Campground (530) 587-9462

tahoedonner.com/campground campground@tahoedonner.com

Equestrian Center (530) 587-9470

tahoedonner.com/equestrian equestrian@tahoedonner.com

Camps

Monday-Friday | 9AM-3PM

Pony Rides

Friday-Sunday | 9AM-12PM

Private Lessons

Saturday-Sunday Through Aug. 16 | 9AM-3:30PM

Wednesday-Sunday

Aug. 19-Oct. 11 | 9AM-3:30PM

Golf Course (530) 587-9443

tahoedonner.com/golf golf@tahoedonner.com

Golf Course

Open Daily | 7AM-7PM

Driving Range

Open Daily | 7AM-7PM

Closed Sundays at 6PM to Mondays at 9AM for Maintenance

Pro Shop

Open Daily | 8AM-5PM

Northwoods Pool (530) 582-9646

tahoedonner.com/aquatics aquatics@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily

Through Aug. 9 | 11:30AM-5PM

Open Saturday-Sunday + Holidays Aug. 15-Sept. 7 | 11:30AM-5PM

Recreation Hut (530) 582-9646

tahoedonner.com/recreation-hut recreation@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily | 9AM-5PM

Tennis + Pickleball Center (530) 587-9474

tahoedonner.com/tennis tennis@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily

Through Aug. 9 | 7AM-8:30PM

Open Daily

Aug. 10-23 | 7AM-8PM

Open Daily

Aug. 24-Sept. 6 | 7AM-7:30PM

Trails (530) 582-9672

tahoedonner.com/trails trails@tahoedonner.com

Please avoid wet or muddy trails

Trout Creek Rec Center (530) 587-9437 tahoedonner.com/aquatics tahoedonner.com/fitness troutcreek@tahoedonner.com

Gym

Open Daily | 6AM-10PM

Lap Pool

Open Daily | 6AM-9:45PM

Recreation Pool + Kiddie Pool

Open Daily | 10:30AM-7PM

Hot Tubs, Sauna + Steam Room

Open Daily | 6AM-9:45PM

Marco Polo Grill

Open Daily

Through Aug. 9 | 11AM-3PM

Open Saturday-Sunday

Aug. 15-Sept. 7 | 11AM-3PM

Drinks Available to 4PM

Dining

Alder Creek Cafe (530) 582-9686

tahoedonner.com/aldercreekcafe

Cafe

Open Wednesday, Saturday + Sunday | 11AM-6PM

Open Thursday-Friday | 11AM-7PM

Trailside Bar

Open Wednesday, Saturday + Sunday | 11AM-6PM

Open Thursday-Friday | 11AM-7PM

Happy Hour

Wednesday-Sunday | 4-6PM

The Lodge

Restaurant & Pub (530) 587-9455

tahoedonner.com/the-lodge lodge@tahoedonner.com

Pavilion

Breakfast Daily | Until 10AM

Lunch Daily | 10AM-5PM

Social Hour Daily | 3-5PM

Dinner

Open Daily | 5-9PM

Pizza on the Hill (530) 587-9669

tahoedonner.com/pizza pizza@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily | 4-8PM

Ask about our First Responders Discount!

Member Services

(530) 587-9400

tahoedonner.com/welcome info@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily | 8AM-5PM

All amenities are weather and conditions permitting. Check the website or call for most upto-date information.

1

Cardboard Regatta at Beach Club Marina tahoedonner.com/cardboard-regatta

Bike Skills Clinics at Bikeworks tahoedonner.com/ bike-skills-clinics-2

2

Annual Scavenger Hunt at Beach Club Marina tahoedonner.com/scavenger-hunt

Functional Strength Training For Horseback Riders at Equestrian Center Register in Advance tahoedonner.com/ functional-strength-training

5

Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse See page 20

Functional Strength Training For Horseback Riders at Equestrian Center Register in Advance tahoedonner.com/ functional-strength-training

Glacier Way Trailhead and Interpretive Trail Project Tour Register in Advance tahoedonner.com/ glacier-way-trailhead

Wibit Floating Obstacle Course at Trout Creek Recreation Center tahoedonner.com/wibit

6

Thursday Night Group Rides at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/ thursday-night-group-rides

7

Cornhole Tournaments at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/ cornhole-tournaments

8

Pancakes + Ponies at Equestrian Center tahoedonner.com/pancakes-ponies

Women’s Harmony With Horses Workshop at Equestrian Center Through Aug. 9 | Register in Advance tahoedonner.com/womens-harmony

9

Equestrian Poker Ride Challenge at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/poker-ride

13

Thursday Night Group Rides at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/ thursday-night-group-rides

14

Ranch Relaxation + Equine Guided Education at Equestrian Center

Register in Advance tahoedonner.com/ranch-relaxationequine-guided-education-3

Cornhole Tournaments at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/ cornhole-tournaments

15

Heart-Based Horsemanship Clinic at Equestrian Center Through Aug. 16 | Register in Advance tahoedonner.com/ heart-based-horsemanship-clinic

19

Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse See page 20

20

Ranch Relaxation + Equine Guided Education at Equestrian Center

Register in Advance tahoedonner.com/ranch-relaxationequine-guided-education-4

22

Pancakes + Ponies at Equestrian Center tahoedonner.com/pancakes-ponies-2

Trails & Vistas Art Hikes at Alder Creek Adventure Center Through Aug. 23 tahoedonner.com/trailsandvistas

28

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

Tahoe Donner Woodyard Firewood Purchase Day Through Aug. 29 tahoedonner.com/ firewood-purchase-day-3

30

Gardening Club Meeting tahoedonnergardeningclub.com

Saturdays 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Yoga on the Meadow at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/ yoga-on-the-meadow

Music by the Meadow at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/ music-by-the-meadow

Sundays 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Free Family Movie Night at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/ family-movie-night-2

SUP Yoga at Beach Club Marina tahoedonner.com/sup-yoga

Mondays

3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Member Mondays at The Lodge Pavilion tahoedonner.com/member-mondays

Bingo Night at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/bing0-night

Tuesdays 4, 11, 18, 25

American Mah Jongg Club at Alder Creek Adventure Center See page 20

Grooves by the Greens at The Lodge Pavilion tahoedonner.com/grooves

Wednesdays

5, 12, 19, 26

No Corkage Wednesdays at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials

Thursdays

6, 13, 20, 27

Basic Bike Maintenance Clinics at Alder Creek Adventure Center tahoedonner.com/ basic-bike-maintenance

Edi-Bōl Nights at Alder Creek Cafe tahoedonner.com/edi-bol

Trivia Night at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/trivia-night

The Buzz: Clubs

4-Wheelers Club

Happy 4th of July from the Tahoe Donner 4-Wheelers Club! We love celebrating our country’s birthday, as several of our members lined up their decorated Jeeps for the Truckee 4th of July parade. It was incredible to see such a massive turnout and so many smiling faces in the crowd! Wishing everyone a fantastic summer in this beautiful, recreation-filled paradise we are lucky to call home.

American Mah Jongg Club

Summer is in full swing. We had a record number of Mah Jongg players show up on Tuesday, June 30. It’s so great to see everyone enjoying the game and the good company. I’ve had several requests from people wanting to learn the game and join us. The best way to learn is:

1) Buy the 2026 Card from the National Mah Jongg League

2) Buy the pamphlet “Mah Jongg Made Easy” also from the National Mah Jongg League.

3) Learn the game either from an inperson or online class or from a video such as Mahj 101 and Mahj 102 from Southern Sparrow on YouTube.

We play every Tuesday from 1-4PM at Alder Creek Adventure Center using the National Mah Jongg League rules. No RSVP needed! For questions, please contact Dori Schick at doridans@hotmail.com or Deb Bloomberg at debbala@comcast.net

Equestrian Club

SUMMER is here! Tahoe Donner

Equestrian Club welcomes many new boarders, and a summer full of new

activities promises a great season either on the trail or at the center, enjoying the programs and the horses.

Any new riders wishing to explore the trails with an informal guide, please get in touch with Karen Aaron and Sunshine by sending a private message through the Tahoe Donner Equestrian Fan Club Facebook page, or come see us at the Equestrian Center.

Gardening Club

Continue watering deeply and daily with hot temperatures. Deadhead regularly to keep plants looking their best. August is also a good time to assess what’s thriving and what’s struggling in your microclimate, helping you plan for next season. As peak fire season approaches, it’s a good time to evaluate your property. Do you have a gravel barrier against the house? Are your evergreens limbed up 6 feet or by one-third their height? Is your current landscape well irrigated?

The Gardening Club typically meets from 4-5:30PM on the last Sunday of the month, April through October. Members are notified of meeting details via email once they sign up. Interested in joining us? Sign up at tahoedonnergardeningclub.com

Come grow with us! We look forward to another wonderful season in the garden.

LGBTQ+ Club

We’re excited to share that the Tahoe Donner LGBTQ+ Club has already met twice and is growing! We’re actively recruiting new members. To sign up (no obligation) and be part of this welcoming community, visit tinyurl.com/TDLGBTQJoin.

Join us on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 5-7PM for the Tahoe Donner LGBTQ+ Club Pool Party & Potluck! Don’t miss out on the good vibes, refreshing swims and delicious eats with amazing people. Spots are filling up fast, so grab yours and get ready for an unforgettable summer celebration!

Find details and ticket info at tinyurl.com/TDLGBTQPoolParty or email tdlgbtqclub@gmail.com

Men’s 9-Holers Golf Club

July play was great, and the turnout has been excellent. We now have over 30 members.

Please contact us if you are interested in a casual 9 holes on Thursday mornings. Dues are $25 and will be collected on your

first play day. The form can be requested by emailing mtd9gc@gmail.com or contacting our Club President, Raymond Cadei, at raytoni110@gmail.com. We play at 9AM every Thursday. We also had our first two-person scramble in July. No handicap index is needed for scrambles, as the Pro Shop uses our play for the day for scoring.

TAHOE DONNER CLUB CONTACTS

4-Wheelers | Tim West club@td4wheelers.org

American Mah Jongg | Dori Schick doridans@hotmail.com

Equestrian | Susan Terrell

the Veterans. Last fall, we received some flannel strips. The strips, prints and colors were very nice, so I took some but have not had any inspiration yet.

However, Diane Fischer did and made this beautiful table runner with them. It’s always fun to see what people will create with fabrics. And it is nice to see fabrics being repurposed into functional things. For some of us, it’s almost a challenge, “What could I make with this beautiful print?” And that is how, like a few of my friends and I, you end up with a room full of fabric!

If you would like to learn more about what we do, feel free to contact me at odette.turmel@gmail.com or simply stop

by during one of our meetings. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, in the Meadow Room at the Northwoods Clubhouse, from 3-5 PM.

Women’s 9-Holers Golf Club

Results from our President/Vice President Challenge tournament were very close, with the Vice President’s team (Pink) taking the win by three strokes. The President’s team (Blue) takes home the new Duffer Trophy.

•

• Longest Drive – Lynette Van Dell

• Closest to the Tree – Elizabeth Creger at 4 feet, 7 inches

• Closest to the Pin – Rose Gabrielle at 13 feet 8 inches

Individual team scores for the day’s scramble:

• First Place – Shelly Valerio, Cathy Pelligrini, Lori Lux, Marcy Thompson

• Second Place – Julie Sharp, Valerie Brown, Lynette Van Dell, Jennifer Hermann

Congratulations to all our winners! Additional congratulations go to Shelly Valerio, our 2025 Season Champion, based on the lowest 9-hole score and the lowest average score all season long. Our second season award of “Most Improved Golfer” goes to Denise Trani-Morris for the most reduced Handicap at -5. Learn more about the club at td9holers.com

Women’s Golf Club

August has arrived, and while summer may have gotten off to a cooler start, things are definitely heating up on the golf course. Our members have been enjoying lively play days, creative games and plenty of friendly competition on a course that continues to be in outstanding condition. Add in beautiful mountain weather, and it’s been a wonderful season so far.

Guest Day was certainly a season highlight! The groovy “Peace, Love & Golf” theme brought out everyone’s inner flower child, with plenty of colorful 70s-inspired outfits adding to the fun and laughter.

August brings the conclusion of the season-long President’s Cup Match Play, where golfers battle it out one match at a time. Our two-day Club Championship takes place Aug. 18-19. We’re also looking forward to an exchange round with the women from Incline on Aug. 28, followed by hosting them here on Sept. 1.

With golf continuing through midOctober, there’s still plenty of season left to enjoy. Learn more at tdwomengolf.org

TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND MEET YOUR 2026 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Thank you once again to everyone who helped fund this year’s Tahoe Donner Giving Fund scholarships. Since 2015, 95 life-changing awards have been provided to outstanding local students.

In 2026, Tahoe Donner Giving Fund scholarship awards totaled $315,000, including $240,000 for IMPACT scholarships and $75,000 for Traditional scholarships.

Four students were awarded five-year $60,000 IMPACT scholarships. These scholarships are supported by one very generous anonymous Tahoe Donner donor.

Seven students were awarded one-year Traditional scholarships in amounts ranging from $5,000 to $8,000. These students may receive a second year of support based on their continued success in college. Traditional scholarships are funded by Tahoe Donner member donations.

We are pleased to present your 2026 scholarship recipients:

Azul IMPACT Scholar

California State University, Fullerton

Mechanical Engineering

Carlos IMPACT Scholar

University of Nevada, Reno Criminal Justice

Danna

Traditional Scholar

Sierra College

Undecided

Eden

Traditional Scholar

Drexel University

Engineering

Enrique IMPACT Scholar

California State University, San Francisco

Mechanical Engineering

Hannah Traditional Scholar

University of California, Berkeley Microbial Biology

Maria

Traditional Scholar

San José State University

Psychology/ Criminology

Mishel

Traditional Scholar

San José State University Kinesiology

Kenzie

Traditional Scholar Cabrillo College Biology/Nursing

Sara IMPACT Scholar

University of California, Riverside Biology/Nursing

Luis Traditional Scholar

Western Nevada College

Construction Management

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 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) non-profit organization, EIN 680416404. All contributions are voluntary, irrevocable, and are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Tahoe Donner Giving Fund grants and scholarships are made through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation’s annual review process.

The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee 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.

THE RESULTS ARE IN...

Meet Your NewlyElected Board Directors

BY LINDSAY HOGAN, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION AND MEMBER RELATIONS

Tahoe Donner is pleased to welcome Nicholas Rab to the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors and welcome back Don Koenes for another term of service. Together, they bring a strong commitment to Tahoe Donner’s future, a deep appreciation for the community and a shared focus on thoughtful decision-making, responsible planning and member value.

As Tahoe Donner continues to balance long-range investments, amenity improvements, financial stewardship, forest health, member access and the evolving needs of a diverse membership, the board plays an important role in helping guide the association forward. This year’s election brings both a new viewpoint and continued experience to that work.

Nicholas Rab

Bringing Fresh Perspective, Technology Insight and a Deep Love of Community

For Nicholas Rab, Tahoe Donner is more than a place to recreate. It is home. He and his wife, Meg, have been part of the Tahoe Donner community for 20 years and have lived here full-time for about 15 years. They raised their son here, and he attended Truckee

High School before heading to college. Over those years, Rab says Tahoe Donner has shaped his family in countless ways.

That personal connection is what inspired him to serve.

“Tahoe Donner has given my family so much over the years, and I wanted to give back by helping shape its future,” Rab shared.

Professionally, Rab leads software engineering teams, an experience he believes will translate well to board service. His work has required leading large teams through complex, time-sensitive projects where execution, accountability and clear priorities matter. He hopes to bring that same discipline to Tahoe Donner’s approach to capital investment, financial stewardship and operations.

Rab also brings a technology and datadriven perspective. He sees an opportunity for Tahoe Donner to use modern tools more effectively to improve efficiency, support staff and enhance the member experience. As a full-time resident, he also brings an everyday, all-season understanding of how Tahoe Donner amenities and services are used throughout the year.

“What makes Tahoe Donner special is the combination of extraordinary natural surroundings and genuine community,” Rab said. “There aren’t many places where you can have world-class recreation right outside your door and still feel the warmth of a real, connected community. That balance is what I love most, and it’s what I most want to protect.”

As he begins his first year on the board, Rab says he is looking forward to learning more about the full scope of association operations, including budgeting, reserve planning, long-range capital needs and the many moving parts that keep Tahoe Donner’s amenities running. He is especially interested in learning from staff, whose institutional knowledge and day-to-day expertise are essential to the

association’s success, as well as from his fellow board directors.

Rab also recognizes that coming in with fresh eyes requires humility.

“My goal in year one is to listen carefully, ask good questions and build the understanding I need to serve members well,” he said.

Among the issues and opportunities he sees as most important are financial sustainability, long-range planning and the responsible use of technology and data. He believes these priorities can complement one another when approached thoughtfully, helping Tahoe Donner invest responsibly while maintaining affordability and improving the member experience.

Rab’s approach to board service is grounded in listening, transparency and evidence-based decision-making. He believes members deserve to understand not only what the board decides, but why those decisions are made. He also emphasizes that his responsibility is to serve all members, full-time and part-time alike, and make decisions that support the community as a whole.

When not serving on the board, members can find Rab enjoying Tahoe Donner’s trails and amenities. In the summer, he is often out on his bike. In the winter, he can be found on Nordic skis. He and his family also regularly enjoy Trout Creek Rec Center, the Beach Club Marina, Alder Creek Adventure Center and The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. Beyond Tahoe Donner, Rab enjoys travel and outdoor adventure, including surf trips, hiking, backpacking in the Eastern Sierra and hut trips.

Above all, Rab says he is grateful for the trust members have placed in him and hopes members will stay connected.

“The best decisions come from staying connected to the members we serve,” he said. “I intend to do exactly that throughout my time on the board.”

Don Koenes

Continuing Service with Experience, Stewardship and a Members-First Focus

Incumbent Director Don Koenes returns to the board with eight years of Tahoe Donner board service and a continued focus on members, responsible planning and protecting what makes the community special.

Koenes and his wife, Denise, have owned in Tahoe Donner since 2006. Their primary home is in Roseville, and over the years they have enjoyed Tahoe Donner with their children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. Like many members, their connection to the association is rooted in recreation, family time and a deep appreciation for the neighborhood.

Koenes describes Tahoe Donner as both a homeowners association and a community of neighbors. That perspective shapes his approach to board service.

“I treat Tahoe Donner with respect, care and attention,” Koenes shared. “I value and honor the relationship we have with each other as neighbors bonded in Tahoe Donner.”

During his previous service on the board, Koenes has helped guide the association through major projects, evolving policies and long-range planning efforts. He points to significant accomplishments during that time, including the rebuilt Pavilion at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, renovation of the Beach Club Marina deck, reconstruction of the Downhill Ski Lodge and modernization of financial policies to support responsible, stable management.

Koenes says he is excited to continue building on that progress while keeping members at the center of future decisions.

In addition to his Tahoe Donner board service, Koenes serves on the Board of

Directors for the Community Associations Institute, Northern California. That role connects him with HOA managers and homeowner leaders throughout the state and helps him stay informed about best practices, shared experiences and legislative issues that may affect Tahoe Donner.

Looking ahead, Koenes is focused on several key priorities: strengthening wildfire protection, land management and access to homeowners’ insurance; continuing to refine the amenity access system; developing a long-range community plan to guide future investment; implementing new financial policies for the benefit of members and the association; and maintaining strong relationships with the Town of Truckee and other agencies that support and affect Tahoe Donner.

Koenes’ principles include putting members first, preserving Tahoe Donner’s character, maintaining fiscal responsibility, protecting the environment and ensuring member enjoyment. He believes rules should be practical, fairly enforced and respectful of both neighbors and the natural environment. He also believes Tahoe Donner’s single-family residential character, outdoor setting and balance of adventure and relaxation are important assets to preserve.

His outlook on the future is both practical and optimistic.

“The best way to predict the future is to create it,” Koenes said.

Looking Ahead

With a combination of new perspective and continued experience, Rab and Koenes join the board at an important time for Tahoe Donner. From long-range community planning and financial stewardship to amenity access, wildfire protection, technology and member enjoyment, the work ahead will require thoughtful discussion, careful listening and a continued focus on what best serves the membership.

Tahoe Donner congratulates Nicholas Rab and Don Koenes and thanks all members who participated in the election process. As the association looks to the future, member engagement will remain essential in shaping a strong, connected and sustainable Tahoe Donner community.

Briefs

ASSOCIATION UPDATE

Start Your Winter Preparation now by Stocking up on Firewood

Take advantage of the best deal on firewood on Tahoe Donner Woodyard Firewood Purchase Days. The woodyard will be open on select days this summer and fall, offering cords for $54 plus tax. Cords are a mixture of red fir, white fir, Jeffrey pine and lodgepole pine, with firewood rounds approximately 16 inches in length.

Upcoming Firewood Purchase Days:

• August 28-29, 2026 | 8AM-4PM

• September 25-26, 2026 | 8AM-4PM

Cost: $54 plus tax per cord; purchasers are responsible for loading their own vehicle.

Location: Tahoe Donner Woodyard

For additional questions, please call the Forestry Department at (530) 587-9432, email forestry@tahoedonner.com or call Member Services at (530) 587-9400, ext. 0.

Please note: Outdoor campfires are prohibited in Tahoe Donner and Truckee during the Regional Fire Ban.

KIDS CAMPS

Don’t Miss These Great Day Camps for Kids in August

Looking for a last-minute summer adventure for your kids? There are still openings for Club Tahoe Donner and Donner Lake Adventure Day Camps in August! Set your kids up for a week of exploration, sports and recreation – including beach and pool days, mountain biking, archery and more –at various Tahoe Donner amenities.

Register now on ShopTD or learn more at tahoedonner.com/day-camp-sessions

ASSOCIATION UPDATE

Make an Impact on Your Community by Joining a Tahoe Donner Committee

The following committees are currently seeking to fill the following vacancies: Covenants Committee: This committee oversees the administration and enforcement of the Governing Documents and Association Rules as they apply

to property owners regarding care and maintenance of properties and the behavior of property owners, their guests and tenants. Vacancies – 1

Elections Committee: This committee ensures the fair and efficient administration of the elections process at Tahoe Donner. Vacancies – 1

Finance Committee: Provides financial advice, analysis and information to the board of directors to enable the board to make sound business decisions.

Vacancies – 1

Long-Range Planning Committee: Formerly the General Plan Committee. These committee members serve the Board and Staff as a source of advice, feedback, assistance, and expertise in all matters pertaining to the Association’s long-range planning, including the Five-Year Strategic Plan. Vacancies – 2

Tahoe Donner Giving Fund: The philanthropic arm of Tahoe Donner operating as an affiliate fund of the Tahoe-Truckee Community Foundation. Vacancies – 2

Year-end applications for committee roles are due by Oct. 31 of each year. Please contact executiveassistant@tahoedonner.com for more information. To learn more about all of Tahoe Donner’s active committees, visit tahoedonner.com/active-committees.

LOCAL NEWS

Don’t Miss the Final Truckee Thursday of the Season

Thursday, Aug. 6 | 5-8:30PM in Downtown Truckee

If you haven’t yet checked out Truckee Thursdays, these feel-good street events beckon the community to enjoy exuberant downtown summertime energy. Don’t miss the final Truckee Thursday before we welcome in fall!

Offering a stage with live music, a food court with an eclectic selection of eats, children’s activities, a beer garden and a wide variety of artisan vendors, it’s no wonder these lively weekly events are on both locals’ and visitors’ must-do lists. In addition, attendees will find sidewalk sales and other activities hosted by

downtown merchants, with the opportunity to reacquaint themselves with all Historic Downtown Truckee has to offer year-round! With live music by vibrant pop artist Michelle Lambert, come by for the final Truckee Thursday of the season from 5-8:30PM.

Tahoe Donner will offer a complimentary looping shuttle service from Trout Creek Recreation Center to Downtown Truckee, with service available approximately every 15 minutes from 4:30-9PM.

Tahoe Donner Shuttles: These shuttles are on a first-come, first-served basis. No standing or pets allowed. Large items like strollers are discouraged on the shuttle, and seat belts are required.

LOCAL NEWS

Saddle Up for the 52nd Annual Truckee Pro Rodeo

Aug. 27-29 at McIver Arena

Keeping Truckee’s Western heritage alive, this beloved summer tradition features two days of classic rodeo action, including bull riding, barrel racing and mutton bustin’! Thursday night, kick off the 3-day event with a highenergy night of Extreme Bulls & Broncs, followed by a concert featuring Eli Young Band. Friday and Saturday, enjoy California Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association (CCPRA) events, local food vendors, shopping and multiple bars operated by the Truckee Donner Horsemen Crew. Choose between grandstand seating or bring a blanket and low-back chairs for grass seating under the trees. Please note: No outside food, drinks (except water) or pets allowed.

Thursday, Aug. 27: Gates open at 4:30PM, Extreme Bulls & Broncs at 5PM, Eli Young Band to follow

Friday, Aug. 28: Gates open at 4:30PM, Rodeo at 5:30PM

Saturday, Aug. 29: Gates open at 2:30PM, Rodeo at 4PM

Board Meeting Recaps

Special Board of Directors Meeting

June 2, 2026

Appeal Hearing

The board heard and considered an appeal request to reverse the April 8, 2026, Architectural Standards Committee decision regarding Unit 02, Lot 323. The board received a staff presentation followed by a statement from Appellant 1. They asked clarifying questions, considered additional information, engaged in deliberation and then moved to adopt Hearing and Appeal Resolution 2026-4, Resolution Denying Appeals of the Architectural Standards Committee’s Approval for Unit 2, Lot 323. Motion passed 4-0 (Director Koenes absent).

Special Board of Directors Meeting

June 22, 2026

Amenity Access Rule Update Adoption

The board received updated written and verbal member comments related to the 45-Day Notice for the proposed Amenity Access Rule changes. The board discussed, asked questions and then moved to adopt the proposed amendments to the Amenity Access Rule, as set forth in Exhibit A, with two minor technical corrections:

1. Clarification adding an owner’s spouse’s or domestic partner’s parent to the definition of eligible family members; and 2. Internal citation references from Section C(1)(d) to Section C(1)(c).

The amended rule shall become effective on June 22, 2026. Motion passed 5-0.

Regular Board of Directors Meeting

June 26, 2026

Euer Valley Phase 2 Projects Update

The board received a presentation from Truckee River Watershed Council (TRWC) staff on the Euer Valley Phase 2 Projects, including timeline and funding. The board then thanked TRWC for their presentation and asked clarifying questions.

Management Update

Jon Mitchell, Director of Capital Projects and Facilities, provided the board with an update on projects that are completed, under construction, in permitting and in the design phase. The board asked clarifying questions.

Alder Creek Adventure Center North Lot Drainage Improvements

The board received a presentation on the Alder Creek Adventure Center (ACAC) North Lot Drainage Improvement Project. The board asked clarifying questions, engaged in discussion and then moved to authorize the general manager to enter into construction contracts on behalf of the association to complete the ACAC North Lot Drainage Improvement Project, cost not to exceed $421,736, including a 15% contingency, utilizing 2026 New Capital Projects Funds and Repair and Replacement Funds. Motion passed 4-0 (Director Koenes absent).

Board

Governance Policies: 2nd Opportunity to Adopt

The board reviewed and discussed the proposed updates to the Board Organization, Governance and Meetings Policy, Board Code of Conduct, Board Expense Reimbursement, Common Facilities, and Discounts Policy, and Board Review Of Financial Records In Accordance With California Civil Code Section 5500 and 5501 Policy.

The board discussed and then moved to adopt Governance Resolution 2026-5, Governance Policies Update, thereby adopting the proposed policies and rescinding the prior policies. Motion passed 4-0 (Director Koenes absent).

2026 Annual Membership Meeting June 28, 2026

President’s Annual State of Tahoe Donner Message

Board President Levine delivered the annual State of Tahoe Donner Message.

Treasurer’s Report

Board Vice Treasurer, Jay Wertheim, delivered the annual Treasurer’s Report.

Keynote Speaker

Jen Callaway, Town Manager, Town of Truckee (TOT), delivered the keynote address.

General Manager’s Annual Update

Annie Rosenfeld, General Manager, delivered the General Manager’s Annual Update.

Member Comments, Questions and Answers

Staff and the board read the member questions aloud and responded to them.

Adjourn Friday, 6/26/26 Board Meeting

The meeting adjourned at 11:52AM. Motion passed 4-0 (Director Koenes absent).

Introduction of 2026/27 Board of Directors

Brent Collinson, Inspector of Elections, announced the results of the 2026 Board of Directors Election. Don Koenes and Nicholas Rab were declared winners of the two open seats.

2026 Annual Organizational Meeting

June 28, 2026

Election of Corporate Officers

The board adopted the following slate. Motion passed 5-0.

• President: Benjamin Levine

• Vice President: Denise Gauny

• Secretary: Nicholas Rab

• Treasurer: Don Koenes

• Vice Treasurer: Jay Wertheim

Board Liaisons to Committees Appointments

The board members were appointed liaisons to the following committees. Motion passed 5-0.

• Architectural Standards Committee: Denise Gauny

• Covenants Committee: Denise Gauny

• Finance Committee: Don Koenes

• Long Range Planning Committee: Benjamin Levine

• Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee: Jay Wertheim

• Trails + Open Space Committee: Nicholas Rab

Adoption of Regular Board Meeting Schedule

The 2026/27 regular board meeting schedule was adopted as presented. Motion passed 5-0.

5501 Subcommittee Director Designees

It was stated that, given the earlier appointment of a Vice Treasurer, the 5501

designees are specified by Resolution 2026-9. No further board action was needed.

2026/27 Board Training Plan

The board discussed the Aug. 26, 2026, board training topics.

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

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 – Regular Board Meeting + Budget Session #1

Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 – Regular Board Meeting + Budget Session #2

Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 – Special Board Meeting: Budget Session #3

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 – Special Board Meeting: Budget Session #4 (if necessary)

Friday, Oct. 30, 2026 –Regular Board Meeting

Board meeting dates subject to change. Visit tahoedonner.com for dates.

Upcoming Committee Meetings

Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026 –Trails + Open Space

Monday, Aug. 10, 2026 – Tahoe Donner Giving Fund

Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026 –Architectural Standards

Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026 –Long-Range Planning

Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026 – Finance

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 – Covenants

Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026 –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 June 2026.

UNIT/LOT ADDRESS SQ. FT. PROJECT 02/258 11888 2,112 House/ Chamonix Garage Road

06/220 14247 2,346 House/ Wolfgang Garage Road

Covenants Violation Hearings

The Covenants Committee held the following violation hearing in June 2026.

Where in the World is Tahoe Donner News + Life?

Antarctica

Nancy Bach, Michael O’Connell, Kathy O’Brien and Stephen O’Connell warm up after an Antarctic polar plunge.

Tulum Mayan Ruins, Mexico

Ashley Tan and Leo, Max and Mike Voytovich spent a week in Tulum, snorkeling and scuba diving cenotes, eating tacos and exploring the Mayan ruins pictured here.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Chris Dly, Trina Martynowicz and Liam, Marianna and Tim Brennan enjoyed a long layover at the largest water park in the world at the Atlantis Resort, Dubai on their way to South Africa for an amazing safari, ending in beautiful Cape Town.

Carinthia, Austria

Bernd and Marilyn Kutzscher, Carole and Steve Mahoney and Else Uglum by Wörthersee (Lake Wörth) on the last day of their bike tour through parts of Slovenia, Italy and Austria.

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.