Tahoe Donner News + Life February 2026

Tahoe Donner NEWS + LIFE

Zen and the Art of Grooming

An Inquiry Into the Substance of Snow

Nurtured by Nature

An Exploration of Douglas DeVore’s Nature-Inspired Photography and Process

Run for the Board 2026 Board of Directors Election Information

The Buzz Local Activities, Dining + Updates

EDITORIAL + PRODUCTION TEAM

Lindsay Hogan Drew Deurlington Carlynne Fajkos Cynthia Cendreda Jesus Antonio Vazquez 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 | Courtney Murrell cmurrell@tahoedonner.com

Vice Treasurer | Jay Wertheim jwertheim@tahoedonner.com

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EMAIL: comdep@tahoedonner.com

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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

On the last day of the year 2000, I bundled up and headed to the Downhill Ski Lodge for Tahoe Donner’s New Year’s Eve gathering. It was a small, quiet affair that did not feel like much of a party. There were no fireworks following the light parade.

On the last day of the year 2025, for the first time in 25 years, I once again bundled up and headed to the Downhill Ski Lodge to welcome the new year. This time, the aging and well-worn ski lodge was gone, replaced by a new, state-of-the-art facility. The small, subdued gathering I remember from a quarter century earlier gave way to an electric celebration with an overflowing, joyful crowd.

When the fireworks erupted, illuminating the community and the ski lodge, it felt like more than a celebration of a new year. It felt like a celebration of Tahoe Donner’s progress, a bold exclamation of shared pride, and a powerful expression of our community’s commitment to excellence.

The transformations we celebrated in 2025 did not happen by chance. They were the result of deliberate planning, persistent work, and a shared commitment to improving our community. Just as those efforts shaped what we celebrated this past New Year’s Eve, the direction we set today will shape what Tahoe Donner members celebrate for decades to come.

In 2026, we will launch Tahoe Donner’s most comprehensive long-range planning effort in more than 15 years. Called the Tahoe Donner Community Plan, this initiative will go far beyond traditional capital improvement planning to take a more holistic look at our community and our broader aspirations for its future. We expect to complete the plan in 2027.

The Community Plan will ask fundamental questions. Who are we as a

mountain recreational community? What kind of community are we striving to become tomorrow? How can we continue to enhance member enjoyment and experiences while remaining financially and environmentally responsible? How can we best invest in facilities and programs to meet today’s needs while anticipating tomorrow’s expectations?

It will also explore critical planning topics, including community standards and safety, regional partnerships, transportation and mobility, organizational effectiveness, and the risks and opportunities that lie ahead.

Crucially, for the first time since 2010, we will take a thoughtful look at our community’s Mission and Vision Statements. How has our mission evolved since its adoption? Have we achieved the vision we set for ourselves? And if so, what goals should guide our community’s next chapter?

By actively involving members at key stages of the plan’s development, we aim to foster community connection today while ensuring member perspectives help guide Tahoe Donner’s future.

Through this effort, we seek to preserve what is foundational for our community while defining our vision and goals for the future. When completed, the Community Plan will help us identify our priorities and make thoughtful, informed decisions that benefit Tahoe Donner and its members for decades to come.

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

Art Grooming

An Inquiry Into The Substance of Snow Zen and the ~ ~ of

BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA

“To live only for some future goal is shallow. It's the sides of the mountain that sustain life, not the top.”

– Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

Snow sliders, including every kind of skier and snowboarder, know better than most how to live in the present moment, navigating in real time, and at warp speed, every slope, chute, cornice, bowl, cliff, pillow, jump, hit, bank, berm, half-pipe, quarter-pipe, or other skiable surface on the side of a mountain. Sure, there’s some planning, some necessary preparation, but there’s also some risk of the unknown as you’re ascending (if you’re a Nordic Skier) or descending (for all you downhill enthusiasts), and perhaps that’s the allure, the rush

But what of the reverse? The mountain operations teams that chase the perfect conditions to mold and shape snow into an epically carveable surface, with endless swaths of that distinct corduroy texture. A veritable ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) for your sensory ski brain, there is nothing quite like laying down turns on a chalky groomer on a cold morning to warm up your legs. To that end, ski groomers are the true masters of winter.

Sierra Cement: Snow Problem

“Steel [or snow] can be any shape you want if you are skilled enough, and any shape but the one you want if you are not.”

–

So how does that impact grooming? According to “The Science of Ski Grooming,” an article written by Alisha McDarris for Popular Science magazine, the more snow, the more havoc it wreaks on the machinery. In the article, Brian Dubuque, snow surface manager at Snowbasin, one of Utah’s top resorts, asserts that the best-case scenario is a light storm that drops between 2 and 4 inches of fresh, dry snow. Referring to it as “hero snow,” it’s easy and efficient to groom and creates a beautiful surface to ski on. With just six inches or more, snowcats can start sliding on steeper slopes as the tracks get packed with snow and lose traction.

Heavy, wet snow, which Dubuque refers to as mashed potato, or “Sierra Cement,” as Tahoe locals call it, creates another set of unique challenges. This type of dense snow can bind up in the machinery’s tiller and leave streaks in the corduroy. “It’s more challenging for groomers and requires— even more than usual—that they constantly adjust tiller speed and depth to create a good skiing surface…It’s not just set it and forget it; you’re always fiddling with something,” Dubuque explains.

Steep Hills Are No Place For Cheap Thrills

“Gumption is the psychic gasoline that keeps the whole thing going. If you haven’t got it, there’s no way the motorcycle can possibly be fixed [or the steep run groomed].”

the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and

–

Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

Through some combination of science, snowcats and skills, groomers possess a unique ability to transform even the most elusive topography into thrilling black diamond runs, gentle beginner slopes, rolling cross country trails or even an aweinspiring terrain park. And to understand this level of artistry is to acknowledge the precision required to sculpt Mother Nature’s frosted flurries into silky skiable ribbons, amid a host of unpredictable and unabating snow and weather conditions. Very few art mediums present in as intensely varying volumes and consistencies as snow. High Sierra winters are often marked by feast-or-famine-type Pacific storm cycles, where precipitation is most reasonably measured in feet, not inches. Warmer coastal storms also impart higher moisture content with less evaporation than in places like Utah, where storms are generated inland and across multiple ranges, resulting in drier, lighter “champagne powder.” Continued

While downhill enthusiasts may relish speed on steep runs, when it comes to grooming, slow and steady wins the race. Negotiating such precipitous pitches in a 20,000-pound machine, while contending with darkness, snow and weather conditions, is a methodical process not for the faint of heart.

On advanced and expert terrain, winch cats, specialized snowcats equipped with a heavy-duty winch system and a spool of up to 1,500 feet of high-tension, braided steel cable, are anchored securely to a fixed point at the top of the hill. Beginning at the bottom of the run, winch cats “pull” themselves back to the top, with the winch-assist allowing it to maintain traction and control as it grooms upward. Due to the high risk associated with the high-tension cables, even when slack, this type of grooming is only performed at night and

on closed runs. It is important that skiers and snowboarders avoid any areas where winch grooming is being conducted.

So, when you’re carving down an immaculately groomed blue square or black diamond run free of yesterday’s moguls, don’t forget to raise an après pint to the mountain operations teams who labored into the wee hours while you were dreaming of fresh tracks and lodge snacks.

Corduroy: Between the Lines

“The way to see what looks good and understand the reasons it looks good, and to be at one with this goodness as the work proceeds, is to cultivate an inner quietness, a peace of mind so that goodness can shine through.”

– Robert M.

Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

Corduroy isn’t just an aesthetically pleasing and sensory texture; it plays a vital role in both the evaporation of moisture from the snow and in creating a more stable surface for turning or gliding on skis and snowboards. According to Yellowstone Track Systems, distributor of Ginzugroomers, rollers, tracksetters and other grooming equipment, the peaks and troughs indicative of corduroy—or corrugation, as it’s referred to for cross country ski, snowshoe and snowmobile trails—create minute pressure differentials. These differences promote the movement of moisture up through the snowpack to the tips of the peaks, where evaporation is accelerated by increased exposure to cold air. Corduroy also increases the surface area of the slope or trail, exposing more snow to the air, where moisture transfer occurs.

Snow metamorphism is the continuous change in its crystal structure, size and shape after falling, driven by temperatures, temperature gradients and moisture, leading to either stronger, rounded grains or weaker, faceted grains that significantly affect snowpack stability. Another phenomenon, known as “mechanical age hardening,” refers to the formation of ice bonds between snow grains, which increases the snow’s overall density and hardness. Grooming snow into corduroy facilitates both processes to stabilize the snow, while the triangular shape of the individual ridges adds strength and stiffness. Under ideal conditions, these corrugations can form a thin glaze or ice cap. Collectively, these caps can easily support the weight of a downhill or XC skier, snowboarder or snowshoer, with no impact to the ground beneath, resulting in a safer and more navigable surface, as well as a resilient and long-lasting trail or run.

Man and Machine

“Each machine has its own unique personality, which probably could be defined as the intuitive sum total of everything you know and feel about it. This personality constantly changes, usually for the worse, but sometimes surprisingly for the better, and it is this personality that is the real object of motorcycle maintenance [or snow grooming].”

– Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

While the groomers at Downhill Ski Resort and Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center possess in their own right a wealth of experience and expertise in sculpting and manicuring the slopes and trails, this 2025/26 season, their arsenal of heavy-duty tools has been enhanced with a brandnew PistonBully 400, a compact but features-loaded snowcat that boasts outstanding maneuverability, the cleanest exhaust technology, intuitive operability, a comfortable ride and SnowSAT technology.

To the extent that the new machine operates under the direction of the exceedingly skilled mountain operations teams, grooming at Tahoe Donner, whether on the highelevation slopes at Downhill Ski Resort, or the winding trails of the expansive TDXC trail system, is likely to become an even more efficient process. Assisted by the SnowSAT snow depth sensing technology, operators can identify in real time how and where to utilize snow, saving time, fuel and energy, while creating the most stable trails and runs.

But ultimately, what is at the heart of grooming, whether using a state-of-art machine, or a track setter pulled behind a snowmobile, is, as Robert M. Pirsig so often alluded to in Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, a quality of care, a mindful and engaged approach to life and work that bridges the gap between man and machine and creates meaning in mechanical tasks, eventually leading to true craftsmanship and artistry.

2026 ELECTION RUN FOR THE BOARD

MAKE AN IMPACT AS A TAHOE DONNER DIRECTOR

If you want to make a positive impact in your association and help guide the direction and success of our mountain community, the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors needs you! Two board vacancies will be filled this June. Full-time and part-time resident members are eligible to stand for election and are encouraged to apply by April 17 at 12PM. To learn more about the election process, read on or visit tahoedonner.com/boardelections

WHAT IS THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS?

The Tahoe Donner Board of Directors is a five-member group of unpaid volunteers elected by the membership to oversee the governance and strategic direction of the association. The Board works closely with the association’s professional staff to oversee financial and operational management, including an annual budget of more than $30 million and assets valued at over $90 million spanning across 5,000 acres. In fulfilling its duties, the Board upholds the association’s governing documents and maintains the integrity, character and long-term sustainability of the community.

WHAT SORTS OF ISSUES COME BEFORE THE BOARD?

• Setting association policy and strategic planning

• Establishing and overseeing the budget and the levying and collection of assessments

• Overseeing the maintenance, repair and replacement of facilities

• Enforcing the governing documents

WHAT IS REQUIRED OF BOARD MEMBERS?

Board members are elected to a three-year term and are expected to attend regular monthly board meetings that usually last an entire day. Significant time is often required to review and research information to prepare for meetings. Additionally, there are special meetings, and each board member serves as a liaison to one or more of the committees serving the association, all of which meet regularly. Attendance via Zoom is available for most commitments.

FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY

Members of the board of directors have a fiduciary duty to the association, requiring them to act in the best interest of the association. This fiduciary duty includes the duty of care, the duty to act within the scope of the board’s authority under the law and the

association’s governing documents, and the duty of loyalty. At all times, board members should make decisions that are in the best interest of the association as a whole, regardless of their personal interests.

CONDUCT

Because board members are expected to set an example and promote the shared goal of maintaining and enhancing the reputation of Tahoe Donner as a valuable, vibrant and thriving community, they are obligated to maintain a high standard of professionalism, civility and decorum. Directors are expected to understand that they are accountable for their actions and words.

WHO CAN JOIN THE BOARD?

The Association’s Election and Voting Rules (seen online at tahoedonner.com/election-rules) and the bylaws provide candidate qualification criteria which include that both full-time and part-time residents are eligible to run as long as they have been a member of the association for at least one year. Association employees, those who co-own property with concurrently serving board members, those with a criminal conviction that prevents the association from obtaining a fidelity bond and those who have already served two consecutive elected terms of office are not eligible. Candidates must be current in the payment of assessments unless the member has paid under protest or agreed to a payment plan.

HOW TO LEARN MORE?

There are several ways to learn more about serving as a board member. One option is to attend board meetings to observe the types of activities and issues the board addresses. Board meetings are open to all members and may be attended in person at Northwoods Clubhouse or virtually via Zoom. The board meetings webpage (tahoedonner.com/board-meetings) includes a schedule of upcoming meetings as well as instructions for joining by Zoom, and also provides links to past meetings with video recordings.

A new event this year is a Prospective Candidate Q&A Session, which will be held via Zoom on April 8. Two current board members will participate to offer an informal opportunity for members who may be interested in running for the board to ask questions about their experiences. Additional information about this session will be shared in upcoming Tahoe Donner Association communications. Resolution 2022-1 (tahoedonner.com/2022-1) is a reference guide for the Board and members and contains information about:

• The board’s duties and authority

• Board meetings

• Governance guidelines

CAMPAIGN GUIDELINES

The current campaign guidelines for board candidates and Tahoe Donner members, can be found at tahoedonner.com/boardelections

The guidelines stress the following positive campaign behaviors:

• Speak Respectfully

• Bring a Positive Message

• Focus on Your Own Message

• Be Factual

• Show Courtesy

• Be Inclusive

• Practice Civility

In particular, “candidates and advocates should take care to avoid distributing or disseminating information to members that is inaccurate, false or materially misleading. This includes refraining from making statements known to be false about the backgrounds, affiliation or positions of candidates or other community members.”

The campaign guidelines also encourage candidates to run an economical campaign using cost effective campaign outreach techniques.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Being a board member is a valuable and rewarding experience that should be undertaken by those who see it as an opportunity to serve their fellow neighbors while protecting and enhancing the assets of the community. It is a serious business but also a responsibility that safeguards the investments of every owner.

HOW TO RUN FOR THE BOARD

Beginning Friday, March 6, download Candidacy Forms as part of the Candidate Packet online at tahoedonner.com/boardelections

COMPLETED APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY FRIDAY, APRIL 17 AT 12PM TO ELECTIONSCOMMITTEE @TAHOEDONNER.COM

The Elections Committee will certify candidates’ eligibility to serve on the board. The list of candidates will be communicated to members. The Candidate Packet will provide details about director election-related communication opportunities for candidates including the Director Election Forum (“Community Meeting”) Zoom event on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

For more information, visit tahoedonner.com/boardelections or email electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com.

To update your contact info, visit tahoedonner.com/update-your-profile by May 7. Ballots will be mailed to all members of record on May 27.

CA Civil Code 4041 requires updated contact info annually.

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Yoga, Music + Art

Just for Kids! Yoga, Music + Art

Tahoe Donner Introduces a Kids

Enrichment Series in February and March

Every Saturday at 5:30PM from Feb. 7 through March 28, Tahoe Donner will offer a brand-new, FREE Kids Enrichment Series designed for our youngest community members. Featuring a rotating mix of music classes, art activities and kid-friendly yoga, this complimentary program provides a multitude of opportunities to explore creativity, movement and mindfulness. Classes begin at 5:30PM and last approximately 45-60 minutes. Held in the Meadow Room (next to Pizza on the Hill) at the Northwoods Clubhouse, class availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Enrichment experiences help kids build confidence, express themselves, strengthen social skills and develop a lifelong love of learning. Space is limited; make sure to arrive early to secure your spot! Food and drinks are available for purchase from Pizza on the Hill, open from 4-8PM.

Age recommendations and/or requirements vary by activity, with inclusive options for babies up to 10 years of age. Please review class details ahead of time to determine if it is age-appropriate for your child. Parents must stay on-site and, in some cases, may be required to participate to assist their children. See below for details.

Music Programs

Date Activity Capacity* Age Range Description

Parents must participate with their children.

Parents

Parents must participate with their children.

Art Programs

Feb. 14 Art Explorers

10 kids 4- to 6-year-olds A process art workshop where kids paint, build, squish and explore, following their creativity and imagination. Artists will experiment with art materials through guided play and create freely at their own pace. Parents must remain in eyesight of their children. Please bring a reusable bag for art to be taken home.

March 7 Imagination Station 5- to 9-year-olds In this “open studio” workshop, young creators will explore different materials, and allow their curiosity and imagination to create their own unique art.

Artists will enjoy hands-on exploration, experimenting with colors, shapes, and textures, and discovering new ways to express themselves through art.

Parents must stay on site. Please bring a reusable bag for art to be taken home.

March 21 Color Magic 7- to 10-year-olds Artists will explore the magic of color by mixing, layering, and transferring vibrant colors to reveal original pieces of art.

Parents must stay on site. Please bring a reusable bag for art to be taken home.

Yoga Programs

Feb. 21 Yoga Adventures 5- to 9-year-olds Young Yogis will journey through fun and engaging poses to build strength, balance and focus, ending with a mindfulness practice to connect with themselves.

Parents must stay on site. Please bring a water bottle for hydration and wear comfortable clothing.

March 14 Little Yogis 2- to 4-year-olds Expect a playful hour of gentle movement, yoga poses and calming breath designed for toddlers and preschoolers to help little ones relax, build confidence and practice simple mindfulness.

Parents must remain in eyesight of their children. For younger children, parents are welcome to join them for yoga. Please bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothing.

About THE INSTRUCTORS

10 kids

10 kids

10 kids

10 kids + their parents if desired

Brooke Chabot will lead all the Music Together classes. Chabot is a staple in the Truckee/Tahoe music scene, having written and performed music for more than two decades. She has been teaching Music Together and other music classes for more than 14 years. Brooke loves exploring music with young musicians, bearing witness to the glimmer in their eyes and the magic in their hearts with each new song. Eléa Bosqué-Oliva will lead all art and yoga classes. She is a passionate artist and educator, dedicated to igniting creativity in children of all ages. She inspires young artists to experiment with diverse materials and embrace new ideas, fostering both artistic expression and self-confidence. She owns Wolf Mountain Creations, and her work can be seen at galleries around the Tahoe Region. Eléa is also certified through Breathe For Change’s Mindfulness, SEL and Yoga Teacher Training for Educators. She loves guiding children to grow physically, mentally, emotionally and socially in a fun and supportive environment.

Learn more about the Tahoe Donner Kids Enrichment Series at tahoedonner.com/kids-enrichment-series.

NURTURED BY NATURE

AN EXPLORATION OF DOUGLAS DEVORE'S NATURE-INSPIRED PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROCESS

Throughout the halls and open dining areas of the new Downhill Ski Lodge are some of the most stunning images of Truckee Tahoe’s natural landscapes, a technicolor gallery of mountain ridges, high-alpine flora, meandering creeks, majestic forests and that mystical alpenglow shot by award-winning local photographer and Tahoe Donner member Douglas DeVore. With mural-sized prints showcasing vibrant colors and crisp, lifelike resolution, DeVore’s artwork brings an awe-inspiring sense of the outdoors to Downhill’s indoor spaces, softening its modern, industrial interiors with tranquil images of Mother Nature in all her glory. Learn more about the artist behind the lens in this brief Q+A that highlights his passion, process and long-time partnership with Tahoe Donner.

Cynthia Cendreda: How did you go about curating and installing the images for the new Downhill Ski Lodge? Did you already have some in mind, or were you waiting to see the spaces first?

Douglas DeVore: I was lucky enough to tour the space a few times during the various phases of construction. The Tahoe Donner staff and I worked together to pick a series of images that worked together to feature the beauty of our area in all seasons. You can even see an authentic Tahoe Donner snowflake magnified to one-thousand times its current size.

CC: What sort of planning goes into shooting these almost surreal landscape images? And, what does your setup look like (for all the landscape photography enthusiasts out there)?

DD: Planning usually involves a lot of scouting, using apps to determine sun or Milky Way positions, and checking sunrise and sunset forecasts. Nine times out of ten, I come back without the shot, but I still have fun. As far as setup, I’m a huge gear nerd. While I love using macro extension tubes, star trackers, drones, underwater housings, laser alignments and my Canon R5, sometimes a shot will just appear, and I’ll just pull out my iPhone.

CC: I read in your artist bio that you are a twotime Emmy Award winner for your work as a director and editor for PBS series and NBC affiliate programming, and the director of internationally acclaimed short films, as well as being listed as an inventor on several Apple, Inc. patents for video and photography applications. With such an extensive and impressive resume in film, plus a family and all your many sports and recreational interests, how do you find time for your photography pursuits?

DD: I absolutely love living here in Tahoe Donner. I can’t imagine a better place full of so many exciting things to do. And while I don’t get to do photography as much as I’d like, it’s because I’m distracted by such a myriad of other amazing opportunities, friends and family. When there’s fresh snow, it can be tough to decide whether to pull out the photography gear or the ski gear.

CC: Where else can we see your work in Tahoe Donner, and how long have you been in partnership with the association?

DD: I’ve been providing photography to Tahoe Donner for about five years. You can find my work at Pizza on the Hill, Trout Creek Recreation Center, The Lodge Restaurant & Pub and Northwoods Clubhouse. The amazing prints at Alder Creek Adventure Center are those of Elizabeth and Olof Carmel, longtime Tahoe Donner residents, friends and the inspiration for a lot of my work.

CC: Tell us a little bit about your latest endeavor, Ridgeline Gallery?

DD: Remember that part where you asked me how I find time to do all this stuff? Yeah, this was me maybe going a little too far. But it’s been fun – I really love talking to and meeting new people, visitors and locals and geeking out with other photographers and artists. Having a gallery right in the middle of downtown has been a great experience.

CC: As a self-professed nerd/geek, you seem to possess a profound and unrelenting desire to create, whether films, photos or software. The world is better for it, so may I ask, what can we look forward to next?

DD: Oh gosh, I have no idea! Maybe something to do with chocolate? My family would probably appreciate that.

CHECK OUT MORE OF DOUGLAS DEVORE’S WORK AT RIDGELINE GALLERY

Located in Historic Downtown Truckee, Ridgeline Gallery, co-owned by Douglas DeVore and visual artist and curator Piper Johnson, is a welcoming art venue that seeks to inspire collectors while supporting local and regional artists in a fresh and vibrant space. Showcasing a variety of original artwork, from photography, oil, acrylic and mixed media on canvas to ceramics, stainless steel sculpture and other natureinspired mediums, Ridgeline Gallery offers an organic experience with which to immerse yourself in stunning pieces inspired by the beauty of the Sierras. Both DeVore and Johnson also offer comprehensive services in curation, installing exhibitions, art consulting and coordinating custom commissions. Located at 10104 Donner Pass Road, visit their website at ridgelinegallery.com for hours, events and more.

Buzz The

LOCAL ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, DINING + MORE

Flake News

It seemed at one point early in the season that we were headed for a winter drought. Many concerned snow enthusiasts took decisive action, hoping to appeal to Mother Nature’s sense of irony. They washed their cars. They tuned their mountain bikes. They maintained their gardens in the hopes that not preparing for snow would somehow manifest its much-anticipated arrival. And, lo and behold, it worked.

Ever the prankster, just in time for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, our harlequin queen of the snow sent a flurry (pun very much intended) of storms, resulting in FEET of snow and kicking off the as-yet-to-begin ski season with a BANG–literally–the fireworks show at Downhill Ski Resort was off the chain.

Perhaps we have those superstitious folks to thank for intentionally delaying their winter preparation–rumor has it, they’re still digging out–because evidently, Mother Nature likes to play it coy. Now we know.

Go With the Snow

Now that we are in the heart of the season, how do we make the most of winter in Tahoe Donner?

Members with a valid Member ID Card can enjoy another free ski day at either Downhill Ski Resort or Tahoe Donner

Cross Country Ski Center (TDXC) on Monday, Feb. 9 and Friday, March 20. Prereserved lift tickets or trail passes are required. Reserve on ShopTD.

Members can also enjoy FREE tubing and more at Snowplay Member Nights on Feb. 6, 7, 13, 14 and 15 from 5:15-6:30PM, conditions permitting. No reservations required; accompanied guests welcome (guest rates apply).

TDXC is offering four-week programs for all levels of cross country skiers, from beginners to masters/experts, through March. Ideal for making “strides” in your classic or skate skiing technique, the fourweek programs are designed for the longterm progression of your skills. Sign up for February or March sessions on ShopTD.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to wax your own XC skis, in addition to learning about the fundamentals of maintenance, join Roger Chaney’s clinic from 3-5PM on Saturday, Feb. 14, at the Alder Creek Adventure Center. Scheduled on Valentine’s Day, show some love to your ski equipment for a long-lasting relationship. For details, visit tahoedonner.com/events

Are you a skier who is boardcurious? Perhaps you’re a snowboarder who secretly relishes that skiers never have to plop their bottoms in the cold snow to strap into their bindings or shimmy across a flat traverse. If you’ve ever wanted to switch it up, Downhill Ski Resort offers affordable group lesson packages for

adults and kids as young as 3! With ample beginner terrain and a great teaching staff, it’s the ideal place to experiment and explore winter sports. Book your next lesson on ShopTD.

Winter is for the Kids

In February and March, a new complimentary Kids Enrichment Series for TD’s youngest community members will run every Saturday at 5:30PM at Pizza on the Hill, offering a rotating mix of music classes, art activities and kidfriendly yoga. Activities vary by age, with inclusive options for babies through 10-year-olds, taught by experienced music teacher, songwriter and musician, Brook Chabot, and educator, artist and certified yoga instructor, Eléa Bosqué-Oliva.

On Saturday, Feb. 21 (conditions permitting), kids can get excited for the annual Glowstick Parade and Carnival at Downhill Ski Resort. This family-friendly event is for kids aged 10 and younger who can ski or ride down Snowbird Run in the dark, unassisted. They’ll first have the opportunity to win glowsticks by playing carnival games at the ski lodge before the parade. Visit tahoedonner.com/events for all event details!

Catch the Big Game in TD

Looking for a place to watch the final match-up of the NFL season? On Sunday, Feb. 8, head to Pizza on the Hill, The Lodge Restaurant & Pub or Alder Creek Cafe beginning at 3PM to score happy hour pricing and game-day specials while you root for your team! With big screens, beers on tap and delicious dining made to order, what more could you ask for in a Super Bowl celebration? To view menus and more, visit tahoedonner.com/dining

February

4

Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse

See page 19

6-7

Free Snowplay Member Nights tahoedonner.com/ snowplay-member-nights-4

8

Big Game Sunday Happy Hour Specials at Pizza on the Hill and The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, Alder Creek Cafe

9

Members Ski Free Day at Downhill Ski Resort and Cross Country Ski Center tahoedonner.com/ member-ski-free-02

12

Pre-Valentine’s Day Four-Course Dinner at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials

13

Pre-Valentine’s Day

Four-Course Dinner at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials

Free Snowplay Member Nights tahoedonner.com/ snowplay-member-nights-5

14

Hands-On Wax Clinic at Cross Country Ski Center tahoedonner.com/events

Free Snowplay Member Nights tahoedonner.com/ snowplay-member-nights-5

15

Free Snowplay Member Nights tahoedonner.com/ snowplay-member-nights-5

18

Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse

See page 19

21

Glowstick Parade and Carnival at Downhill Ski Resort tahoedonner.com/glowstick-parade

27

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

Mondays 2, 9, 16, 23

Edi-Bōls are Back at Alder Creek Cafe tahoedonner.com/edi-bol

Tuesdays 3, 10, 17, 24

American Mah Jongg Club at Pizza on the Hill

See page 18

Wednesdays 4, 11, 18, 25

No Corkage Wednesdays at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub Not Valid Feb. 18 tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials

Fridays 6, 13, 20, 27

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

Saturdays 7, 14, 21, 28

Kids Enrichment Series at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/kids-enrichment

TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS + HOURS

Cross Country Ski Center (530) 587-9484 tahoedonner.com/xc xc@tahoedonner.com

Trails

Open Daily | 8:30AM-5PM

Rentals + Repairs

Open Daily | 8:30AM-4:30PM

Downhill Ski Resort (530) 587-9444 tahoedonner.com/downhill skireservations@tahoedonner.com

Lifts

Open Daily | 9AM-4PM

Guest Services

Open Daily | 8AM-4:15PM

Rentals

Open Daily | 8AM-4:30PM

Kitchen + Grill

Breakfast

Open Daily | 8:30-10:30AM

Lunch

Open Daily | 11AM-3PM

Bar

Open Daily | 11AM-5PM Après

Open Friday-Sunday | 3-5PM

Golf Course (530) 587-9443 tahoedonner.com/golf golf@tahoedonner.com

Pro Shop + Golf Simulator

Open Wednesday-Sunday | 10AM-4PM

Reservations required Course + Driving Range

Closed for the season

Snowplay (530) 587-9462 tahoedonner.com/snowplay snowplay@tahoedonner.com

Open Friday | 12:15-4:30PM

Open Saturday-Sunday | 9AM-4:30PM

Extended Holiday Hours Open Daily Feb. 16-20 | 9AM-4:30PM

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

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-9:30PM Hot Tubs, Sauna + Steam Room

Open Daily | 6AM-9:45PM

Dining

Alder Creek Cafe (530) 582-9686 tahoedonner.com/aldercreekcafe Breakfast Open Daily | 8:30-11AM

Lunch Open Daily | 11AM-3PM

Après

Open Daily | 3-5PM Trailside Bar

Open Daily | 11AM-5PM

Edi-Bōl

Open Mondays | 5-7PM

The Lodge Restaurant & Pub (530) 587-9455

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

Open Wednesday-Sunday | 5-8:30PM

Extended Holiday Hours

Open Feb. 16-17 | 5-8:30PM

Pizza on the Hill (530) 587-9669

tahoedonner.com/pizza pizza@tahoedonner.com

Open Friday-Tuesday | 4-8PM

Extended Holiday Hours

Open Feb. 18-19 | 4-8PM

Ask about our First Responders Discount!

Member Services (530) 587-9400 tahoedonner.com/welcome info@tahoedonner.com

Open Daily | 8AM-5PM

The Buzz: Clubs

4-Wheelers Club

Thirty-seven club members got in the Christmas spirit at our annual Alder Creek Adventure Center holiday party arranged by our Social Director, Lisa Dobbert. We all brought toys, making a significant haul, which we delivered to Truckee Community Cares. The Tahoe Donner catering team laid out a great spread that we enjoyed while watching a slide show of the 2025 trail runs and trips. Vice President Don Schellenberg introduced new members who filled us in on their 4x4 rigs and interests. It was a wonderful time visiting with everyone who attended!

Members can see the 2026 schedule at TD4Wheeler.org. We have runs and trips ranging from easy dirt roads up to peaks, fire lookouts, ghost town sites, petroglyphs and lakes to extreme rock crawling with everything in between. Responsible 4x4 runs are a terrific way to explore beyond what is normally accessible to us and build skills at the same time.

For additional club information or to join us on our next run, visit TD4Wheelers.org

American Mah Jongg Club

David Letterman’s Top Ten Mah Jongg Sayings (as overheard at your average game!)

10. I can’t pick a tile to save my life!

9. Is this the one bam?

8. Worst Charleston ever!

7. Is it my turn?

6. Oh my god, I really hate this game!

5. I so miss that hand from last year.

4. Can I steal on this pass?

3. I’ve totally gone the wrong way!

2. Same tiles going around and around. And the number one thing you’re likely to hear at your next Mah Jongg game: DOES THIS SET HAVE ANY JOKERS?!?!

Sound familiar? Then, we’d love to have you join us for Mah Jongg! We play every Tuesday at Pizza on the Hill from 12-3PM. We play using the National Mah Jongg League’s card and rules. No RSVP needed! For more information about Mah Jongg Club, contact Dori Schick at doridans@hotmail.com or Deb Bloomberg at debbala@comcast.net

Men’s Golf Club

The Tahoe Donner Men’s Golf Club is always looking for new members! The club puts on over 30 events throughout the season, with something for everyone. We have socials, weekly Wednesday games, events for family and friends, team events and individual competitions that include our Match Play and Club Championships.

The club’s board continues to meet regularly while the golf course is closed, planning for the upcoming season. We are pleased to announce that we have posted our updated 2026 Calendar of Events on our website. To join the club and/or view the 2026 event schedule, please visit the website at tdgolfclub.com.

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

Quilt Club

February is the “real” winter month (at least it was when I was growing up in Quebec), when it’s so cold the school buses don’t start, and it’s hard to breathe while waiting outside for them to pick you up. But it is also the month that brings the celebration of love, Valentine’s Day. There are many fun quilt designs featuring hearts, including appliqued, pieced or large hearts made up of several small squares. This lovely (pieced) quilt was made by Lisa Furr for her granddaughter. This lucky little girl of 5 years old picked the block pattern and fabrics herself – a future designer for sure!

If you would like to know what we do, you can contact me at odette.turmel@gmail.com, or show up to one of our meetings. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1-3PM in the Meadow Room at the Northwoods Clubhouse. We welcome sewers of all levels, and are happy to answer questions (or at least try) if you need help with a project.

Enjoy February, as the daylight hours increase by a few minutes each day, and have a happy Valentine’s Day!

Senior Alpine Ski Club

What a difference a month makes! December 2025 was dismal, as far as too much rain and no snow to start out the Tahoe ski season. But January 2026 has been marvelous with sunshine, powder days and good base-building storms. Our ski club had enjoyed many club ski days at our local resorts each week. We also attended a very excellent ski clinic hosted by our own Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort instructors, followed by an aprèsski social to celebrate the opening of our new Tahoe Donner Ski Lodge. If interested in joining our group, please visit our website at tdski.com.

Women’s Golf Club

Even as snow blankets the course and winter settles in, the 2026 Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club board is already hard at work planning an exciting season ahead. While we wait for the fairways to re-emerge, we’re pleased to share that registration is now open, and we welcome both returning and new members to join us for another great year of golf, camaraderie and fun.

Our season typically runs from late May through mid-October, weather permitting, with weekly play on Tuesday mornings. Members enjoy a wide variety of formats throughout the season, including fun and competitive games, monthly “Just Play Golf” days, our popular Member-Guest Invitational and optional tournament play for those looking to test their skills.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or newer to the game, the Tahoe Donner Women’s Golf Club offers a welcoming community and a fantastic way to enjoy the season once the snow melts. For more information or to access our membership application, please visit our website at tdwomengolf.org.

We look forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones when the season tees off!

TAHOE DONNER CLUB CONTACTS

4-Wheelers | Tim West club@td4wheelers.org

American Mah Jongg | Dori Schick doridans@hotmail.com

Equestrian | Susan Terrell terrellsf@earthlink.net

Gardening | Kate Fanter tdgardeningclub@ gmail.com

Hiking | Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net

Junior Golf | Molly Springmann mspringmann@ tahoedonner.com

Limited Abilities Persons’ Golf | Mike Srago msrago@comcast.net

Men’s 9-Hole Golf | Raymond Cadei raytoni110@gmail.com

Men’s Golf | Michael O'Connell tdmensgolf@gmail.com

Mountain Bike | Dustin Young dustinyoung75@ gmail.com

Quilt | Odette Turmel odette.turmel@ gmail.com

Rowing | Val Brinker vbrinker@ dicksonrealty.com

Running | Scott Bauhs info@tdrunclub.com

Senior Alpine Ski | Joe Rosenfeld info@tdski.com

Women’s 9-Holers Golf | Wendy Lockhart td9hole@gmail.com

Women’s Golf | Mary Liz Wardlaw tdwgclub@gmail.com

Form a Club!

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

$60,000 IN GRANTS PROVIDE MEANINGFUL SUPPORT FOR LOCAL NONPROFITS TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND

Giving to our local community through the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund has never been more meaningful as the fallout from government funding cuts is compounded by rising needs throughout the Truckee area. Since 2015, the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund in partnership with the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation has awarded grants to nearly 40 local nonprofit organizations. Areas of focus include: arts and culture; education and youth development; environment and conservation; animal welfare; and health and human services.

Thanks to all the Tahoe Donner members who generously donated to the Giving Fund, $60,000 in grants were awarded in Fall 2025 to the following organizations:

$10,000

to Friends of the Truckee Library

The Friends of the Truckee Library support the cultural, social and educational wellbeing of our community. Their vision of a 20,000-square-foot modern library that will serve as the community hub for connection, creativity, and collaboration is well in its way to becoming a reality because of significant sources of funding and the successful passage of Measure G. A larger space will serve our whole community in access to dreams and opportunities, technology, resources and services, and so much more.

$10,000

to La Fuerza Latina

Craig Rowe, an English teacher at Truckee High School, started La Fuerza Latina (LFL) in 2015. Support and guidance are provided primarily to Latina students who have good grades, good work ethics and are full of potential, but have limited resources to help them succeed and navigate the arduous college prep and admission process. Funding is used for a wide variety of things including but not limited to: application fees; summer programs; academic travel stipends; tutoring; and research experiences. Several of the Giving Fund scholarship recipients have benefited from being part of LFL.

$10,000 to Sierra Senior Services –Meals on Wheels

Sierra Senior Services administers the Meals on Wheels program for the Truckee and Lake Tahoe area. With the cuts to Federal grant funding in 2025, the organization is facing significant challenges as the only organization providing this support for seniors in our area. To qualify for Meals on Wheels, a person must be 60 years of age or older and unable to shop for or prepare their own meals. All deliveries are made by volunteers who drive nine routes, including one route that covers the entire Truckee Community. These deliveries not only provide needed meals but also reduce isolation for seniors and allow them to continue to live independently for as long as possible.

$5,000 to Boys and Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe

The Boys and Girls Club’s mission is to inspire and enable all youth to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible community members. They accomplish this by providing safe and structured after school and summer programs for youth throughout the Truckee and Tahoe Area. The primary Truckee site is located at Truckee Elementary School, where services are provided to TK through 5th grade students.

$5,000 to Fellowship of Compassion – Navigation Center

The Navigation Center one-year pilot program is scheduled to open in February of 2026. It is the first shelter of its kind in Truckee and will provide a range of year-round services for the area’s unhoused population. The pilot program will provide temporary housing/ shelter (6 interim beds and 10 shelter beds), case management services, and a range of essential resources including showers, meals, laundry, mail services and storage. This model will truly provide stability in people’s lives by creating a safe and supportive place for our unhoused neighbors.

$5,000 to Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe

The Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe (HSTT) is dedicated to saving and improving the lives of pets through adoption, community spay/neuter and humane education programs. HSTT has seen a drastic increase in the use of their Pet Pantry as members of our community struggle financially. The Giving Fund grant will help to support assistance programs with the goal of keeping pets in their homes.

$5,000 to Slow Food Lake Tahoe

Slow Food Lake Tahoe’s mission is to connect our community to the enjoyment of good, clean and fair food by inspiring a self-reliant food culture. In Truckee, they are best known for the food bank and community gardens located in the Regional Park. They also coordinate compost collection at the Farmer’s Market and sponsor many educational programs about growing, preparing and accessing local and sustainable food.

$5,000 to Tahoe Truckee School of Music

The Tahoe Truckee School of Music’s mission is to provide music education to students in the TTUSD service area. To further this goal, they maintain an instrument library for students who cannot afford to purchase one. They partner with local businesses, agencies and chambers to showcase local students. Partnerships include Tahoe Donner, Northstar, Palisades Tahoe, Truckee Chamber of Commerce, Tahoe Truckee Airport District and more. This collaboration offers students unique and valuable live performance opportunities.

$5,000 to Truckee River Watershed Council – Euer Valley Project

The Euer Valley is a beloved part of the Tahoe Donner community. In collaboration with the Tahoe Donner Association, the Watershed Council is managing a wetland restoration project in the Valley. Phase I of the project includes the improvement and restoration of Coyote Crossing with a new bridge installed across the creek and a boardwalk installed in the wetland area of the trail. The goal is to restore the damaged wetland to its natural habitat.

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.

FOUNDING PARTNER

FREE SNOWPLAY MEMBER NIGHTS

FEBRUARY 6–7 + 13–15 | 5:15–6:30PM

Bundle up and join us for a brand-new, FREE member-exclusive winter experience at Snowplay! Enjoy tubing under the lights, complete with music, glowing snow and the perfect setting for quality family time and unforgettable winter moments. Race down the lanes, build a snowman, gather around the fire pit, sip hot cocoa, snack on fresh donuts and mix and mingle with fellow Tahoe Donner members.

Open to members and their accompanied guests only—no reservations required. Bring your valid Member ID Card for free entry; accompanied guests may join by paying the guest rate on-site.

Plus! Remember to tag Tahoe Donner (@tahoedonnerassociation) for a chance to be featured on social media!

Your Ski Season Playbook: Stay Strong, Ski Long

BY DR. MICHELLE SORAYA POURTABIB, M.D.

Ski season explodes with pure joy when your body transforms into a powder hound carving down snowy runs, instead of a shaky snowman teetering toward a tumble. Smart preparation flips faceplants into graceful arcs, keeping you chasing fresh tracks instead of icing your knees in the lodge.

Your Body: The Real MVP of Ski Season

Flashy skis and helmets steal the spotlight, but your body claims the real bragging rights – it's the workhorse powering every epic carve, quick turn and powder slash. Trained muscles morph into your personal suspension system that cushions wild bumps and unexpected turns when snow throws curveballs. Pre-season prep makes all-day adventures feel like pure freedom instead of survival missions.

Pre-Season: Your Ski Body Makeover

Picture giving yourself a ski-ready tune-up over 6-8 weeks before the snow flies. Each workout builds your mountain legs, solidifies your balance, and provides all-day energy for endless fun runs. Build your snow stamina by jogging, brisk walking, biking or swimming for about 30 minutes most days. Strengthen your ski legs with squats, lunges and wall sits. Fortify your core through planks and bridges, creating that stable trunk that keeps you upright when the mountain gets spicy. Best of all, ease into it gradually so your body celebrates the changes instead of protesting.

Already Mid-Season? Start Smart

Missed the pre-season prep? You can still protect yourself. Start with lower-intensity versions of the exercises above and gradually increase difficulty week by week. Focus extra attention on daily joint rotations and warm-ups before every ski day. Choose easier terrain for your first few outings, consider skiing half-days initially and take rest days between sessions. Pushing too hard, too fast on unprepared muscles is how injuries happen.

The Game-Changer: Your Body’s Magic Ski Wax

Before you snap into your bindings, your joints need their own warm-up ritual. Rotating your joints in slow circles releases synovial fluid. It’s your body's built-in lubricant that's basically like oiling up your bike chain before a big ride. This slippery goodness floods your joints, so they flow through bumpy terrain and quick turns without grinding or stiffness.

Start from the top and work down. Gently roll your neck in slow circles, five times each direction. Circle your shoulders forward and back. Rotate your wrists in both directions. Circle your waist, then make slow circular motions with your hips. Stand or sit and trace gentle circles with your raised ankle in each direction. Graduate to easy knee circles while standing. Spend just three to five minutes on these simple rotations to pump natural lubrication into every joint before skiing.

Warm-Ups: Wake Up Before You Send It

Quick warm-up moves flip the switch from “morning zombie” to “ready to rip.” In the parking lot, lodge or lift line, march in place to get blood flowing, swing your legs like pendulums and practice a few easy squat-turns.

Treat your first run as a gentle hello to the mountain: cruise greens with smooth turns and zero speed records. And dodge that dangerous “one more run” temptation when your legs start shaking. Fun can turn into falls when fatigue sets in.

Gear Up, Choose Wisely

Helmet Protection:

Your helmet is non-negotiable. Look for ASTM F2040 or CE EN 1077 certified helmets that fit snugly without pressure points. You shouldn't be able to move it around on your head when buckled. Replace helmets after any significant impact, even if there is no visible damage, as the protective foam compresses and loses its effectiveness. Multi-impact helmets with MIPS technology provide an added layer of protection that can help reduce the risk of concussions.

Hydration Strategy:

Drink water frequently, as dehydration kills performance and increases injury risk by slowing reaction time and muscle function. Keep your water bottle inside your jacket against your body heat to prevent freezing. For hydration packs, blow air back into the tube after each sip to clear water back into the reservoir. An empty tube can't freeze. Some skiers run the tube under their jacket and out near the chest for easy access.

Smart Decisions:

Insist on professionally checked bindings that release when needed. Pick terrain matching your energy, such as greens for warm-ups and tired legs, blues for building confidence and blacks only when you're feeling strong. Snack regularly and save après drinks for after you've turned in your gear.

Sore After Shredding?

Feeling tight legs or achy muscles post-ski? Post-ski soreness, clinically known as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), peaks 24-72 hours later. Focus on the following recovery actions within 2 hours for best results.

Self-Myofascial Release:

Evidence shows that a five- to 20-minute self-massage or foam rolling session can reduce soreness by up to 30% over 24-48 hours.

Light Activity:

Skip heavy rest; 10-15 minutes of light activity boosts blood flow and outperforms total inactivity.

Hydration:

Drinking enough water after being on the slopes helps your sore muscles heal faster by delivering key nutrients to damaged muscle fibers while flushing out waste products that cause inflammation and stiffness. Sip steadily to improve absorption during recovery, aiming for about 8-16 ounces every 20 minutes and add electrolytes if you sweat heavily.

Cold Versus Heat:

Apply a wrapped ice pack for 10-15 minutes to immediately reduce inflammation and swelling best. Heat helps after 24 hours for stiffness, but worsens acute inflammation.

The Magic Formula

Blend these prep moves, warm-up rituals and smart tactics into your ski season routine and become the unstoppable skier you’ve dreamed of. Every day becomes pure magic with the crisp mountain air filling your lungs, powder spraying from your turns and ending the day with a satisfying tiredness from hours spent playing in the snow. May you ski all season, strong and happy.

About the Author

Dr. Michelle Soraya Pourtabib, M.D., has been a Tahoe Donner member since 2022, and you’ll often find her at Trout Creek Rec Center, the Beach Club Marina or out enjoying the trails. She is a double board-certified physician in family and obesity medicine, an IFMcertified functional medicine practitioner and offers concierge medicine through her private practice serving children and adults in California and Nevada. More information is available at sorayamd.com.

Covenants Compliance + Enforcement

Ensuring the peaceful residential nature of Tahoe Donner is a top priority to the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors, Covenants Committee and staff this last year. The staff has worked hard to consistently communicate good neighborly expectations of members and their guests through available digital communication channels, on the phone and in person with a focus on community relations and voluntary compliance.

Notables This Year

• Covenants enforcement continued with seven-day coverage, including regular business hours and after-hours call service, for complaints relating to loud parties after 10PM or other nuisance complaints. The Covenants Complaint phone number is (530) 414-8166.

• Staff coordinated with local public agencies (Truckee Fire Protection District, United States Forest Service and Town of Truckee) for non-HOA resident issues.

• The Covenants Committee held monthly meetings with 29 total hearings.

Total Complaints Resolved in 2025

Covenants Reminders

Respect Quiet Hours

Loud music, barking dogs and late-night partying are prohibited from 10PM-7AM.

No Drones

Flying drones on Tahoe Donner-owned property, including the trails and open space, is prohibited unless authorized by Tahoe Donner.

Lights Out

Tahoe Donner is a Dark Skies community. Enjoy the mountain stars and minimize light pollution by turning off outdoor lighting after 10PM.

No Off-Road Vehicles

Snowmobiles, motor-powered bikes, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-road motorcycles and off-road use of any motorized vehicle are prohibited on association-owned properties, except for TDA operations.

How to Make A Covenants Complaint

Email compliance@tahoedonner.com

Visit the member portal at tahoedonner.com/member-portal

Call (530) 414-8166. Phone is staffed five days a week 8AM-5PM, with afterhours answering service evenings and weekends.

What Information to Provide

When making a complaint, be prepared to provide:

• Your name, address and email.

• Address of property being complained about.

• Nature of complaint with times occurring.

• Evidence: photos, video, etc.

• Details about how this behavior is affecting you.

• What actions have been taken (e.g. called police).

Town of Truckee STR Helpline – (530) 450-2430

Report STR violations including noise, trash, parking and more

Park on Pavement

Parking vehicles off-pavement, on another person’s property or on access easements is prohibited.

Leash Up

Pets must be on leash at association facilities and must be within voice control on Truckee streets. Don’t forget to pick up after Fido, too.

No Smoking

Smoking is prohibited on Tahoe Donnerowned property, including facilities, parking lots and open space.

Trash

Lock it up in your bear-proof container. Dumping is never allowed anywhere in Tahoe Donner. Trash day is Tuesday, and the recycling/green waste cart pickup is on a weekly alternating schedule.

What Happens Next

Tahoe Donner will review your complaint and make every effort to contact the owner of the property being complained about, share details about the complaint and request voluntary compliance. We will:

• Call the primary phone number on file and speak to the owner or leave a message.

• If no answer, call additional phone numbers on file to speak with or leave a message for owner or designated contact.

• Email the owner via any email on file.

• Send follow-up email to the complainant confirming attempts to contact owner.

Please utilize the Helpline if you wish to report a property that is in violation of the Town of Truckee’s short-term rental ordinance.

Architectural Standards + Design

2025 Year in Review

We continue to see community value added annually through home improvement updates, maintenance projects like painting and staining and major construction like garages and additions including Accessory Dwelling Units in Tahoe Donner. This last year, staff focused on improving the flow of permit reviews to turn around approval quicker and get owners started on their projects. Similarly, the committee has focused its time both on reviewing the new construction projects and also addressing minimum maintenance standards compliance.

Standout New Construction Project Completed

New Construction Growth in Tahoe Donner

12456 Springbrook Place

• 2,200 square feet

• Materials include wood and stone accents

Tahoe Donner has evolved in new construction over its 50+ years, starting with A-frame houses at 1,000 square feet with no garage to the “Tahoe Donner Tunnel” houses with the living space above the garage at 1,450 square feet and now to the more popular mountain modern design house ranging between 2,700-4,000 square feet. The average square footage of new construction permit applications in 2025 was approximately 2,762 square feet.

The community continues to grow with 15 new homes completed/finalized in 2025.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Enjoy Free Snowplay Member Nights

Feb. 6-7 + Feb. 13-15 | 5:15-6:30PM

Bundle up for a brand-new, FREE memberexclusive winter experience at Snowplay! Enjoy tubing under the lights, featuring fun music, glowing snow and the perfect setting for quality time and unforgettable winter moments. Race down the lanes, build a snowman, gather around the fire pit, sip hot cocoa, snack on fresh donuts and mix and mingle with fellow Tahoe Donner members! Open to members and their accompanied guests only; no reservations required. Bring your valid Member ID Card for free entry; accompanied guests may join by paying the guest rate on-site.

Plus! Remember to tag Tahoe Donner on social media (@tahoedonnerassociation) for a chance to be featured!

LOCAL NEWS

Adopt a Hydrant

Structure fires occur at their highest rate during the winter months. These house fires are usually caused by heating appliances like space heaters and wood stoves, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. When the fire department responds to a house fire, adequate resources are dispatched to ensure there is enough water for an initial fire attack. Still, firefighters may need a continuous water supply from a fire hydrant to extinguish some fires. Finding and connecting to a fire hydrant is one of the firefighters' first priorities. GPS mapping technology on fire engines has improved our ability to find hydrant locations more quickly, but getting to them when they are buried under heavy snow can be a challenge.

Snowstorms may bury many of the almost 3,000 fire hydrants in the Truckee Fire Protection District (TFPD). Fire crews work hard to clear snow from priority hydrants throughout the Fire District, but it is impossible and impractical to clear snow from every hydrant after every storm. TFPD encourages you to find the fire hydrant near your house and clear the snow away (at least three feet in all directions) after a storm. This may improve the fire department’s ability to

quickly knock down a fire, and it’s a great way to give back to your community and neighborhood!

To learn more about fire hydrant safety in winter, visit truckeefire.org/adopt-a-hydrant.

LOCAL NEWS

Truckee’s Winter Parking Regulations + Other Reminders About Snow Removal

As posted in the Jan. 1 issue of the Sierra Sun, the Truckee Police Department is reminding residents and visitors that season parking restrictions are now in effect. In Truckee, parking is prohibited on town roads and in public rights-of-way from Nov. 1 through April 30. Violations may result in tickets or towing. The restriction is intended to keep streets clear for snow removal and ice control operations. Snow removal typically begins once accumulation reaches four inches, and crews follow a prioritized plowing plan.

Residents can track snow removal activity online at townoftruckee.gov/347/Winter-Maps

Understanding the Right-of-Way

The town uses the public right-of-way for snow storage and winter operations. In most residential areas, the right-of-way measures approximately 60 feet, extending about 30 feet from the center of the roadway on each side.

The public right-of-way often extends beyond the edge of the roadway pavement and is used to push snow to the sides of the road. Parking or storing snow within these areas is prohibited.

Snow Removal on Private Property

The Town of Truckee does not provide private snow removal services. Property owners and renters are responsible for arranging their own snow removal through private contractors. Snow berms created by plows at the ends of driveways are unavoidable during storms. Clearing those berms is the responsibility of the homeowner or resident.

Town regulations prohibit pushing or blowing snow into public streets. When removing snow from private property, no loose or

packed snow may remain on the roadway, as it can interfere with town operations and public safety, according to the town.

Snow should be stored in front yards, side yards or other approved areas outside the public right-of-way and snow storage easements. Residents are also asked not to block street signs, culverts or drainage structures or push snow onto neighboring properties.

Trash, Recycling + Mailboxes

Residents should place trash and recycling containers behind snow poles and away from roadways to avoid damage from snowplows and blowers. Carts and containers should remain set back during and after storms, when road-widening operations occur.

LOCAL NEWS

Truckee Art Walk

Saturday, Feb. 7 | 4-7PM in Historic Downtown Truckee

On the first Saturday of every month, downtown Truckee transforms into an openair celebration of art and creativity. Stroll the charming streets, look for the Art Walk flags and pop into participating businesses and galleries to meet local artists and explore their work.

Come enjoy an evening of browsing, shopping, sipping and soaking up the vibrant arts scene that makes Truckee so special. Grab a friend, take a walk and get inspired –we’ll see you downtown!

Covenants Violation Hearings

Covenants Committee levied the following

Board Meeting Recaps

Special Board of Directors Meeting

December 15, 2025

Tahoe Donner Giving Fund 2025 Grant Awards

The Chair of the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee presented the 2025 grant award report. The board accepted the report and acknowledged the committee members who are stepping down from the committee.

Policy Regarding Additional Association Media Access During Director Elections

The board of directors reviewed the proposed Resolution 2025-22, Policy Regarding Additional Association Media Access During Director Elections. Following a discussion, the board adopted Resolution 2025-22, Policy Regarding Additional Association Media Access During Director Elections, as presented. Motion passed 5-0.

2026 Board of Directors Election Timeline and Procedures

The board received a presentation from the Elections Committee regarding the proposed 2026 Board of Directors Election Timeline and Procedures. The board engaged in discussion and provided feedback to the Elections Committee and staff for further refinement and finalization, with the expectation that the final version will be approved as part of the Consent Calendar on Dec. 19, 2025.

Management Update

• The board received an update on the TSSA1 partnership projects between Town of Truckee and Tahoe Donner. These included the Roadside Vegetation Management and Class 1 Multi-Use Trail Projects, as well as the Emergency Egress Improvement Study.

• The board also received an update on the status of the recently updated Capital and Financial Policies implementation requirements.

Regular Board of Directors Meeting

December 19, 2025

Draft 2026 TDA Annual Committee Task List Review and Approval

The board met with Tahoe Donner committee chairs and vice chairs, along with staff

liaisons, to review the draft 2026 Committee Annual Task Lists. Following a discussion, the board adopted each committee task list as presented, with modifications to the LongRange Planning Committee and Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee. Motion passed 3-0 (Directors Gauny and Murrell absent).

2026 TDA Committee Personnel Reports and Applications

The board received a presentation from staff on the Tahoe Donner Committee Personnel Reports, which included committee openings and the applicants for those positions. The following applicants were appointed:

• Rod Whitten and Joe Veni as members, and Ted Arleo, Debra Phelps, and Bill Staehlin as alternates to the Architectural Standards Committee for a Class B Term expiring Dec. 31, 2027.

• Steven Benton and Jim McNamara as members to the Covenants Committee for a Class B Term expiring Dec. 31, 2028.

• Cathy Ravano to the Finance Committee for a Class B Term expiring Dec. 31, 2028.

• Ward Sproat to the Long-Range Planning Committee for a Class B Term expiring Dec. 31, 2028.

• Jill Ernst and Lisa Boyd to the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee for a Class B Term expiring Dec. 31, 2028.

• Karen Aaron, Richard Bothwell, Carol Lindsay, and Julie Thornton to the Trails and Open Space Committee for a Class B Term expiring Dec. 31, 2028.

Motion passed 3-0 (Directors Gauny and Murrell absent).

Tennis + Pickleball Court Improvements

Phase 1 Project

The board received an update from the Capital Projects staff on Phase 1 of the 2026 Tennis + Pickleball Court Improvement Project, including revised project cost estimates, an updated project timeline and the anticipated timeframe for board consideration of the construction contract. The board directed staff to advance the project from conceptual design through the preparation of Final Construction Documents, as proposed, including the accelerated replacement of pickleball courts 9 and 10. Motion passed 3-0 (Directors Gauny and Murrell absent).

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, Feb. 27, 2026 –Regular Board Meeting

Friday, March 27, 2026 –Regular Board Meeting

Friday, April 24, 2026 –Regular Board Meeting

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

Upcoming Committee Meetings

Monday, Feb. 2, 2026 – Tahoe Donner Giving Fund

Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 – Elections

Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026 –Trails + Open Space

Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 –Architectural Standards

Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 –Long-Range Planning

Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026 – Finance

Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026 – Covenants

Monday, March 2, 2026 – Tahoe Donner Giving Fund

Tuesday, March 3, 2026 – Elections

Wednesday, March 4, 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

Where in the World is Tahoe

Donner News + Life?

Loreto, Mexico

Four TD owners – Mary Zaponi, Celeste Leon, Elizabeth Creger, Tracy Giles and Paco – enjoyed a farm-to-table feast near the remote San Javier Mission, built in 1699, while exploring the Sea of Cortez, surrounding area and town of Loreto in Baja California, Mexico.

Kandergrund, Switzerland

Amanda Morris and Stephen Wilson traveled to Switzerland to attend Eurovision 2025 in Basel before venturing south to explore the Bernese Alps. They took this photo while visiting Blausee, a stunningly blue lake that is nestled within the Kandertal mountains.

Louisville, Kentucky

Brad and Sue Marnitz and Bob and Mary Jane Stevens enjoyed the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Maureen Alford and Jonathan Williams traveled with their daughter, Lily, to Cabo San Lucas in Baja California, Mexico. This picture was taken overlooking beautiful Medano Beach.

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.

Tahoe Donner