Incliners

The History of the Incliners

In the summer of 1989, the idea of forming a social group for Incline Village seniors took shape. Doug Doolittle, then Director of Parks and Recreation for IVGID, invited 28 Incline residents to discuss the possibility of creating a community group that would foster connection and recreation. Following an initial meeting in late July, a second gathering on August 8, 1989, led to the creation of a charter, the selection of officer candidates, and the planning of a kickoff event.

IVGID leveraged the Kings Beach "Over 50" Club mailing list to invite Incline residents to a potluck dinner on August 22, 1989, at the old Chateau. The response was overwhelming, with 88 attendees eager to learn more. Doug Doolittle introduced the newly elected officers:

  • President: Gene Whitsitt

  • Vice President: Howard Kubel

  • Recording Secretary: Marian Turner

  • Corresponding Secretary: Ruby Hamilton

  • Treasurer: Emilie Williams

  • Directors: Hugh Downer (2 years), Audie Guthrie (2 years), Barbara Sanderson (1 year)

Regular meetings were scheduled for the first and third Mondays of each month, and various activity committees were quickly formed, including Bridge, Local Trips, RV Trips, Skiing, Racquetball, Square Dancing, Bowling, Camera Club, Hiking, Tennis, Book Club, Golf, Singles, International Travel, and Boating. A "Sunshine" committee was also established to send well wishes to members facing health challenges.

The group's first November potluck dinner was a resounding success, with 150 attendees enjoying games such as bridge, Jenga, and Scrabble. Some activities, like skiing and hiking, were relocated to Carson City during the winter months to accommodate the weather.

The Incliners quickly gained momentum, and by March 1990, just seven months after inception, membership had soared to 379. The group's enthusiasm extended beyond social events, as they volunteered for the Nevada State Special Olympics Winter Games and participated in community projects such as building the Tahoe Rim Trail.

As membership grew, new traditions were introduced. In April 1990, the Incliners hosted their first "Hot Chili Night," where the board members cooked for over 200 attendees. Casino nights, group outings, and holiday celebrations became cherished events, cementing the group's role in the community.

Throughout the early years, IVGID provided strong support, while the Incliners remained largely self-sufficient. By the third year, additional catered events, such as St. Patrick's Day, Oktoberfest, and Thanksgiving, were added alongside the Christmas Dinner Dance. Initially, drinks at events were served by member volunteers, but in 2002, IVGID took over to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Despite growth and evolving needs, the core essence of the Incliners has remained intact—a welcoming social group for adults aged 49 and older. IVGID recognized the group’s impact early on, awarding them for program excellence in 1992 and 1993.

As the Incliners grew, so did the recreational opportunities available to the community. The 2000s brought significant changes as IVGID expanded its recreational offerings, enhancing the experience for Incline Village residents. In parallel with the Incliners' formation, IVGID actively developed and improved numerous facilities, including the opening of the Recreation Center in 1992, the Burnt Cedar Pavilion in 2000, the Skateboard Park and Snowflake Lodge in 2001, and the renovation of the Championship Golf Course in 2003. That same year, IVGID also introduced four new tennis courts and a major expansion at Diamond Peak, featuring a new quad chairlift. In 2004, the opening of the new Chateau provided a premier venue for social gatherings and events, further enriching the community's social landscape.

Recognizing the evolving needs of the senior population, the IVGID Recreation Department established a dedicated Seniors Group, offering exercise classes, recreational programs, transportation services, and other senior-focused activities that complemented the Incliners’ mission of fostering connection and engagement.

By 2006, discussions emerged regarding the Incliners’ structure and its alignment with IVGID's senior programs. Ultimately, the group integrated more closely with IVGID, enhancing funding opportunities and improving coordination of senior services, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth.

Today, the Incliners continue to thrive with over 500 members, providing a vibrant social outlet for Incline Village residents. In the past year alone, the club has welcomed over 50 new members, reflecting its ongoing appeal and relevance within the community. From its humble beginnings with just 26 members to reaching a peak of 930, the Incliners have built a lasting legacy of friendship, fun, and community engagement—proving that life in Incline Village only gets better with age.

Membership Growth Over the Years:

  • 1989: 26 members

  • 1990: 150 members

  • 1991: 300 members

  • 1992: 600 members

  • 2024: 500+ members

The Incliners remain a shining example of what community spirit can achieve when like-minded individuals come together to celebrate life in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Tahoe.