DESERT PRINCESS Country Club & HOA Newsletter January 2014
Happy New Year!
HOA Administrative Office
28-211 Desert Princess Dr. Cathedral City, CA 92234 Phone (760) 322-1907 Fax: (760) 327-9699 Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 4 pm Closed weekends & holidays
Community Manager
Jessica Vela, CCAM®, CMCA®, ext. 102 jvela@desertprincesscc.com
Controller
Pamela Jaymes, ext. 103 pjaymes@desertprincesscc.com
Director of Marketing Grace Taylor Segal, ext. 108 gsegal@desertprincesscc.com
For Work Orders Facilities / Landscape / Pools Golf Course Maintenance
Phone: (760) 322-1907 or submit online at: www.desertprincesslive.com
Patrol Services - Vista Chino Gate Phone: (760) 322-0441 Frank Starkey, Post Commander fstarkey@desertprincesscc.com
Member Relations
Maria Cintron, ext. 104 mcintron@desertprincesscc.com
Country Club
28-555 Landau Blvd. Cathedral City, CA 92234 Phone (760) 322-1655 Fax: (760) 322-2741 Reception Hours: Daily 8 am - 4 pm
Country Club Manager
Brandon O’Neill CMAA®, AGM®, ext. 132 boneill@desertprincesscc.com
Member Guest Services & Events Dori Petee, ext. 121 dpetee@desertprincesscc.com
Director of Food & Beverage Jim Carvajal, ext. 127 jcarvajal@desertprincesscc.com
Clubhouse Bar
Ext. 128 Hours: Sunday - Saturday 10 am to Close
Clubhouse Dining
Leon’s at Desert Princess For Reservations, (760) 325-5002 Chef John “JP” Painter, ext. 143 jpainter@desertprincesscc.com
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & More
Open Wednesday through Saturday - 7 am – 9 pm Monday, Tuesday & Sunday - 7 am – 6 pm Sunday Brunch - 10 am - 2 pm Happy Hour Monday - Friday - 3 - 6 pm
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Lagos Café
Phone: (760) 778-3624 Hours: 7 am - 3 pm Daily
Golf Shop
Phone: (760) 322-2280 Tee Times (760) 322-7779 Hours: Open Sun - Saturday 6 am - 5 pm Rand Veal, Director of Golf rveal@desertprincesscc.com
Tennis & Athletics
28-600 Isleta Court Phone: (760) 322-5178 Hours: Mon - Fri 6 am - 7 pm Sat & Sun 7 am - 5 pm Charlie Moore, Director of Tennis & Athletics cmoore@desertprincesscc.com
Spa
28-600 Isleta Court Phone: (760) 322-2293 Hours: Monday - Sunday 9 am - 6 pm Merryl Rose, Spa Manager mrose@desertprincesscc.com
Bill Bender Joe Heil Ray Brown Marilyn J. White John Purdy Tim Gaffney Tim Dermody
President Vice-President Treasurer Secretary Director Director Director
bod@desertprincesscc.com
OUR MISSION: Ensure the Desert Princess enhances owners’ asset values by providing quality venues, amenities, and activities with a sustainable level of service to the satisfaction of our owners, their guests and our public.
OUR VISION: Continue making the Desert Princess the best-value lifestyle community in the greater Palm Springs area. Editor & Graphic Designer
An opportunity to sell your services to all your neighbors with a print circulation that reaches our 1084 homes, our Clubhouse and HOA front desks, and beyond! Your ad would be seen online across the Coachella Valley and the far reaches of the Internet. For information or to place an ad, please call Dori at 760-322-1655 or visit Desert Princess Country Club’s Front Desk. *Deadline for all ad contracts and artwork is the 10th of the month for inclusion in the next month’s edition.
Grace Taylor Segal
Editorial & Sales Assistant Dori Petee
Published by
Desert Princess Homeowners Association 28-211 Desert Princess Dr., Cathedral City, CA 92234
© 2014 by Desert Princess. All rights reserved.
The Royal Page is now published electronically. Links to a downloadable and interactive issue of the publication is emailed to Homeowners. Printed copies are available either for pickup at the HOA or Country Club reception or upon request, via U.S Mail. This distribution method of your community magazine provides the Association with a significant savings in printing and mailing costs. If you would like a hard copy of the magazine, call Dori Petee at 760-322-1655 or email her at dpetee@desertprincesscc.com. rp_0114_v1
www.desertprincesscc.com
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FROM THE PRESIDENT I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday Season and that 2014 will be both a healthy and prosperous year for you. It’s that time of the year in which we have our annual election of the Board of Directors, which will be held on February 22, 2014. This year, two (2) seats will be open due to the terms expiring for Joe Heil and John Purdy. Please join me in thanking them for their hard work and volunteering their time and services. If you desire to run for a position on the Board, your application must be in by January 10th. Shortly after the Board election, all of the various committees will be repopulated with volunteer homeowners. This is another way you can serve your community. Committee applications will be made available in a couple of months. Far too often we have the same people serving on various committees and the Board. Although continuity is good, getting new members involved with new ideas and suggestions gives us diversity which can only be beneficial to our community. Please consider volunteering your time. I guarantee it will be a rewarding experience for you. As many of you might have recently noticed, there’s finally some activity on the 37 acre vacant parcel of land that will be the newest addition to our community with 122 new villas, called Desert Princess Homes. Currently, the Developer is working on the construction of three (3) new models on West Natoma, and anticipates their completion in March 2014. Home production and work on the common areas within the development will also commence shortly. The sales offices, located in the old models, are open if you would like to get a preview of what’s to come and pick up some literature. Our Golf Course Superintendent, Jonas Conlan, for a number of years has been a proponent of installing a new irrigation system for the golf course. The current irrigation system is about thirty (30) years old and is antiquated and inefficient by today’s standards. It is estimated that with a new system we could save between $100,000 and $200,000 per year in wasted water, electricity to pump the water, and repairs to
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the old system. The cost of a new system for the “Original 18 Holes” is estimated to be between $2,000,000 and $2,500,000. At its December 20th meeting, the Board agreed to move forward with the next step of the new irrigation system which would be for the Finance Committee to recommend acceptable funding options for the project. (Please note that the Board has not actually approved the irrigation project at this point.) The combined audited Financial Statements of the Homeowners Association and Country Club for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 are currently being printed and will be distributed to you shortly. I have become aware of some emails circulating around the community spouting various figures and financial analyses. My suggestion is that you refer to the Financial Statements that you will receive from the HOA, which have been produced by the HOA Accounting Department, audited by our Independent Certified Public Accountants, and approved by the Audit Committee as well as unanimously by the Board of Directors. Should you have any questions regarding these Financial Statements, I would be more than happy to discuss them with you personally. For those who travelled elsewhere for the Holiday Season, welcome back. Whatever your special interest is at Desert Princess, I hope you thoroughly enjoy it! BILL BENDER President, Desert Princess Board of Directors bill_bender@msn.com
CHANNEL 98 COUNTRY CLUB MANAGER’S REPORT
Your DESERT PRINCESS Community Channel
Happy New Year! On behalf of the Country Club Staff, I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year. We feel that Desert Princess Country Club is a very special club. A club where new and old friends meet and a place where special memories are made. Our goal is to offer you a comfortable environment where you can relax, socialize, have fun, entertain, play golf and enjoy all of our other amenities all at an affordable price. As we evolve and get better, we will continue to listen to your valuable feedback so that we can make sure we are giving you what you want as a Country Club member. We look forward to providing you with outstanding service with a smile as we are continuously teaching the staff about “Magic Moments” and the importance of creating them on a daily basis. You will also continue to see improvements around the clubhouse. Whether it be to the main entrance, the bar, the kitchen, the Spa, the restrooms, the dining room or our golf course irrigation. We have already started discussion on these items or, in some cases, makeovers are already under way. We are truly excited for you to see what is taking place.
Golf Cart Requirements Cart Owners must provide verification of liability insurance at the time of registration. Annual tags may be picked up from the Homeowners Association Office or the Club Admin Office. Drivers of carts must be licensed . All golf carts must be registered with the Association and display a valid registration decal with current year stickers “tags” displaying owner membership and/ or golf membership. Failure to register your golf cart by November 1, 2013 but no later than December 31, 2013 or at time of purchase will result in a $500 Fine.
If there is anything that I can help with, please do not hesitate to ask. I can be reached at 760-327-0215 or at boneill@desertprincesscc.com. BRANDON O’NEILL Country Club Manager
boneill@desertprincesscc.com www.desertprincesscc.com
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FROM THE COMMUNITY MANAGER Cheers to a New Year and Another Chance for Us to Get it Right! Such an exciting end to a spectacular 2013. So many changes were made throughout the community within various departments including the extensive work provided by the Architectural & Landscape Committee. As we move into the start of the New Year, the Member Governance Committee will continue to meet and spend more time in updating the Associations CC&R’s, ByLaws, Rules & Regulations as well as the Club CC&R’s. These updates will also include the mandated January 1, 2014 changes from the rewrite of the Davis Stirling Act. Although most of the changes pertained to codes, etc. some changes were more advanced affecting the manner in which meetings are held. As you will note, going forward, the Board of Directors has adopted the foregoing policy for all Board & Committee meetings (exception to this is Executive Session whereas (2) days’ notice is required and no advance to homeowners on Emergency Mtgs. of the Board): • No less than four (4) days in advance as required, a Notice of the Meeting shall be posted outside the HOAs Administrative Office building - bulletin board, in addition to sending out electronically viawww.desertprincesslive.com • In addition to meeting subject, date, time and place, notice shall also include the following wording: "Notice is hereby given that In compliance with the Davis-Stirling Open Meeting Act, this committee meeting may be designated an Open Board Meeting if a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are present." In closing, as President Bender has written, the Annual Meeting will be held on February 22, 2014. This too is when Board Elections are held. There are positions becoming available.
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Are you wanting give back and be a part of the enhancement of your Community? Now is your chance...Calling all Candidates, submission deadline is 5:00 pm, January 10, 2014. For those interested homeowners desiring to run for the Board of Directors, The Inspectors of Election “TIE” has the ability to receive the Candidate Statements via www.tieivote.com as well as hard copy or email. To complete and submit your Candidate Statement online, please go to the above mentioned website and enter username: Desert and password: 41692.You may also log on to view all submitted candidate forms prior to the official mailing. In addition, you may also complete and submit a Candidate Statement at the HOA office during normal business hours. We look forward to receiving your Candidate Statement no later than 5:00pm, January 10, 2014 and seeing you at the Election of Directors on February 22, 2014. Please be reminded, as stated in Article VII, Section 7.2 of the Bylaw's, "The Board of Directors shall consist of seven (7) persons who shall be Owners of Lots within the Development AND WHOSE MEMBERSHIPS ARE IN GOOD STANDING with all Assessments current and are not subject to any suspension of membership rights. Only one (1) Owner per Lot shall be eligible to serve on the Board at any time." Thanking you in advance for your consideration. “Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties.” — Helen Keller JESSICA VELA Desert Princess Community Manager
jvela@desertprincesscc.com
www.desertprincesscc.com
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Desert Princess
Employee Holiday Party
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Our 15-year employees were recognized at the party. Congratulations! And thank you!
FROM THE CHIEFS CORNER “The Flu season is here and like a wildfire, it seems to be spreading rapidly says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.” Symptoms may include: A 100oF or higher fever or feeling feverish (not everyone with the flu has a fever). A cough and/or sore throat. A runny or stuffy nose. Headaches and/or body aches. Chills. Fatigue. Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea (most common in children). “The flu and the common cold have similar symptoms says Chief DiGiovanna. It can be difficult to tell the difference between them.” Your health care provider can give you a test within the first few days of your illness to determine whether or not you have the flu. However, the flu is worse than the common cold. Symptoms such as fever, body aches, tiredness, and cough are more common and intense with the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. When should you seek emergency medical attention? Seek medical attention immediately! What are some ways to protect yourself? Avoid close contact with sick people. Stay at home when you are sick. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Washing your hands will help protect you from catching germs. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Drink fluids even when you feel well. Wash surfaces that are shared with others such as keyboards, telephones, exercise equipment, TV remotes. Exercise regularly For additional Flu Facts and Prevention visit: http:// www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/symptoms.htm or http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm Note: The information in this article was compiled from various sources. These suggestions are not a complete list of every preventative or loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace additional safety manuals or the
advice of another qualified professional(s). We make no guarantee of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made. SAM DIGIOVANNA Fire Chief jSDiGiovanna@cox.net
Every Sunday 10 am to 2 pm presenting
Sunday
Brunch
&Bubbles Now a buffet! featuring
• Bottomless Champagne
• Leon’s Famous Lobster Pot Pie
• Delicious Breakfast & Lunch Dishes $23.95++ per person
Call 760-322-1655 for reservations. Visit www.desertprincesscc.com www.desertprincesscc.com
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Upcoming Events
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Stop by Leon's
Meet our Director of Food & Beverage Jim Carvajal (right) & new Executive Chef “JP” Painter—Take a look at the new menus they,ve created...try some of the fabulous new food offered.
Jazz Night January 16th Live entertainment by the Brian Nova Jazz Trio • Three-course meal • Pre-set menu • $35++ per person Call 760-322-1655 for more information www.desertprincesscc.com
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All Day Menu Happy HourMonday - Friday from 3pm - 6pm $3off any item $6.95 or greater
From the Grill
Deli Sandwiches Served with choice of French Fries, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Fresh Fruit or Chips
Served with choice of French Fries, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Fresh Fruit or Chips
Princess Muffin $ 4.95 Margo Burger…………... $10.95 Turkey Breast ♦ Ham ♦Tuna ♦ Grilled English Muffin, grilled egg, sausage patty and melted cheese. Hamburger…………….... $9.95 Pastrami ♦ Roast Beef ♦ Chicken Bunker Burrito $ 6.95 Tuna Melt ………………. $10.95 Scrambled eggs,Salad chorizo, diced tomato and melted cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla. ♦ Egg Salad Surlyn Sandwich $ 6.95 Quesadilla………………. $7.95 On Fresh croissant with a fried egg, cheese, bacon, lettuce and tomato. Add chicken……… $9.95 Two Egg Breakfast $ 7.95 Croissant ♦ Deli Rye ♦ Wheat ♦ A classic, prepared any style, served with your choice of ham, bacon Chicken or sausage, Sandwich …… $9.95 or corn beef hash Sourdough ♦ White ♦ Parisian Roll Traditional Clubhouse…. $10.95 Steak Sandwich………… $10.95 Whole Grilled Cheese……..…… $6.95 Sandwich………………….$9.95 With Ham…Add.… $2.00 Half BLT……………………… $8.95 Sandwich…………………..$6.95 Boars Head Hot Dog…… $6.95
Baskets Fish & Chips $10.95 Chicken Wings $9.95 Soups & Salads Caesar Salad $9.95 add Chicken additional $2.00 Cobb Salad $10.95 Tuna Cup, Chicken Cup,Caesar Cup $6.95 Cup of Soup $4.95
Bowl of Soup $7.95
Chili Bowl w/Cheese $8.95 Chili Cup w/Cheese $5.95
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We have new lunch & dinner menus too!
28-555 Landau Blvd Cathedral City, CA 92234 www. desertprincesscc.com
ALL DAY MENU: Sunday – Tuesday 7 AM – 6 PM Wednesday – Saturday 7AM – 9 PM
CALL AHEAD 760.778.3624
Dinner & Free Bingo! A Buffet Dinner at 6 pm - $16 Free Bingo at 7 pm
Call 769-322-1655 www.desertprincesscc.com
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Happy
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! 4 1 0 2
www.desertprincesscc.com
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FROM THE PRO SHOP Welcome to the New Year! With the golf season in full swing, please remember that tee times for golf members are taken three days in advance and all other tee times are taken two days in advance. When making tee time reservations by phone, please use 322-7779. Desert Princess has several upcoming golf events for January and February. The Ladies Club is having their guest day event January 21, Member/Member event January 25 and 26 and the Winter Classic is scheduled for February 6-8. The Men are having their Member/ Member event January 11 and 12, with the Club Championship being held February 15-17. The Couples Club Championship will be February 2. In order to keep DPCC in great condition, please remember to fill your divots with sand, repair ball marks on greens and always use cart paths when available. Please remember, on cool mornings there is a possibility of frost delays, so if in doubt, please call the Golf Shop before using the practice areas or course. By following these few simple tips, DPCC will continue to be one of the best courses to play in the valley. One putts to all, RAND VEAL Director of Golf
rveal@desertprincesscc.com
HOLE-IN-ONE! Tony Pulice
December 7, 2013 Cielo Course
Hole:#3 Yardage 105 - RED Tees Club: PW
Congratulations, Tony! 16
Men's Club
Tee It Forward EVENT RESULTS December 7, 2013 GROSS 1st - B. LINGUIST- 69 2nd - T. DAWLEY - 71 3rd - P. OLBIN - 74 3rd - B. BENDER - 74 5th - R. HILZ - 75 6th - T. PULICE - 76 6th - I. WATSON - 76 8th - M. QUINTILLAN - 77 NET
1st - L. COX - 64 1st - J. WING - 64 1st - D. GABRYSH - 64 4th - R. DUPUIS - 67 5th - S. HOPWOOD - 68 5th - W. GIBSON - 68 5th - J. LANG - 68 5th - S. RAINWATER - 68 9th - D. HERSHEWE - 69 9th - R. SNEDDON - 69 CLOSEST TO THE PINS
CIELO #3 CIELO #8 VISTA #3 VISTA #5
L. COX R. SNEDDON R. REXIUS S. HOPWOOD
$100 DRAWING WINNER
J. SNEDDON
$30 $30 $30 $30
OUTSIDE GOLF EVENTS DATE
EVENT
# PLAYERS
TIME COURSE
Jan 23
INDIAN HILLS
50
10:45 TT
Feb 3- May 15
QUALITY FOODS
60
12
SG
Feb 23-24 CLASSIC CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE Lagos Nine Shut Down Sat. Afternoon Through Sunday Evening March 1
PRINCESS & POLICE TOURNAMENT 120
11:30 SG
March 22 OPERATING ENG
200
10
SG
April 5
DESERT CHAPEL
144
8 S
G
May 2
THOMPSON BOXING 144
12
SG
May 8
LADIES SPRING TEAM 96
8
SG
Demo Day For Golf Equipment January 4
9-2
Adams Golf
Ladies Trunk Shows
LADY PUTTERS Welcome back, everyone! Everyone is welcome to join us, even if you are not a golfer! It’s social, it’s fun, and it really does improve your putting. Contact Midge Thompson (760-322-2536 or via email at midgenjohn@hotmail.com) or Carol Rabush (760-322-3861 or cmrabush@yahoo.com) for more information. Renee Trenholm
January 7 Bette & Court A.J. Robinson 12-2 February 11 EP Pro Kerry McBride 12-2 March 11 Tail Jeanne Craig 12-2
Please Note
The Ladies have decided to move their Presidents Cup from February 22 &23 to February 15 & 16. www.desertprincesscc.com
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GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE The Golf Maintenance Staff hopes that everyone had a wonderful holiday season and we wish you well for the upcoming 2014 year. Out on the golf course, we have a lot of things going on. As many of you are aware, we continue to deal with birds around our lakes, and we’ve attempted many techniques. Last year we introduced the dog service and we’ve continued that program this year. You may see them out working from time to time, and as a result we’re seeing some good signs. We’ll also be doing some shooting, as in years past, and only do this when our thresholds get too large. What everyone needs to understand is that this is a health issue for employees, golfers and homeowners. You also might have heard discussions involving a new irrigation system. There are many things that go into planning and implementing a new system, and in the beginning it’s important to understand all of the facts and figures. Questions like why do we need it and how can we pay for it are just a couple that are quite common. Recently, we’ve been putting together information, sharing it with committees and ultimately, the Board of Directors. I feel that it’s my job to keep everyone up to date with all of the current issues that might affect a project such as this. I’ve also given my own input to help explain why it’s an important project. One of the main issues is the cost of irrigation water, since going forward it will be very valuable, probably sooner than later. Maximizing the efficiency will be an extremely important asset in water management. At the top of the next column is a graph that shows water costs since 2001, when they were about $54 per acre foot of water. In 2013, CVWD rates are up around $112 per acre foot of water. We use about 1,700 acre feet of water per year, and thus, golf course water costs us about $200,000 per year.
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Shortly, we’ll have completed the HOA water conversion to use this water source, and we will spend about $135,000 per year for this water. This is why having an efficient system is important. JONAS CONLAN Golf Course Maintenance Supervisor jconlan@desertprincesscc.com
Calling Community Photographers! Do you enjoy taking photos? If so, we could use your help! Photograph community events and you may see your photos published in The Royal Page, on the Association website and other Desert Princess publications! Please call Dori at 760-322-1655 if you are interested. Email your best shots to gsegal@desertprincesscc.com. No guarantee of publication implied.
www.desertprincesscc.com
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WOMEN’S GOLF NEWS Desert Princess Women’s Club hosted the first Fall Team match on Monday December 9th. Co-Captains Gail Fairburn and Randie Henry did a terrific job of organizing the event. The visiting teams were very impressed with the attention to detail such as services provided at the Pro Shop, driving range, and golf course as well as a special touch provided by Country Club Manager Brandon O'Neill and Director of Golf Rand Veal who served delicious cookies to the ladies while they played. The dining room was “a-buzz” with complements on the lunch provided. As usual, the Desert Princess Women’s Golf Club sure knows how to throw a party!
January 20th
On Tuesday, December 10th, while playing with the Women’s Club, new member, Helen Rano broke 90 for the first time. Congratulations, Mrs. Rano! The Desert Princess Fall Team had their first match against Desert Falls on Dec. 19th, hosted by Mission Hills on the difficult Pete Dye Course. The results will be available in the next Royal Page. The weather was a dominant factor affecting the Eclectic tournament which was postponed until later in January. Other events scheduled for January include: the start of Match Play; the Member/Member tournament which is a two day event scheduled for Saturday. January 25th and Sunday January 26th; and another guest day, themed “Fifty Shades of Green” is scheduled for Tuesday, January 21st. The results of all these events will be available in the next issue of the Royal Page. Remember to sign up to Tuesday or Saturday play in the Pro Shop: for Tuesday, by Sunday at 12 pm and for Saturday, by Thursday at 12 pm. CARLIE TRONTO President, Women’s Golf Club
trontocr@gmail.com
Open to all DPCC residents All participants chili will be available for sampling, the chosen favorite will be the featured chili recipe the following week. Salad & Cornbread Bar $7.95 per person Call 760-322-1655 for information
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It Matters Who You Hire
www.facebook.com/DesertPrincessCC
#desertprincessc
www.desertprincesscc.com
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SPA I can’t believe it is 2014, where did the year go? I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday Season with family and friends. Charlie and I will be hosting our season opening mixer soon and we will let you know when the date is set. We love to see lots of people enjoy great food and spirits, music, fun activities, free chair massage and raffles, etc….but the most important thing is you get to see familiar faces and meet new homeowners. It will also give you an opportunity to see some of our new upgrades to the spa inside and out, always a work in progress. So, stay tuned!
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I’m sure there are a lot of New Year’s Resolutions out there…all with the best of intentions, including mine. Well, for all of us who could use a little well-needed relaxation, the Spa is launching our Loyalty Program along with our Spa Memberships. (Details below.)
MERRYL ROSE Spa and Facility Manager mrose@desertprincesscc.com
TENNIS & ATHLETICS Happy New Year to all homeowners and annual snowbirds returning for the high season to our beautiful club. The weekly tennis clinics have been in full force and we are excited for the return of our winter tennis buddies to join in on the activities. Our clinic schedule remains the same from last season with Power Hour on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30 – 10 am. Doubles Strategy Clinic runs on Wednesday mornings from 9 -10:30 and the Back to Basics class is every Friday from 9-10 am. Saturday mornings feature the ever popular “Saturday Practice Clinic”, running from 9-10:30 am with many players staying on court after for additional match play…please remember, the Saturday clinic is for 3.0 players and better. The after school junior program is healthier than ever with upwards of 30 juniors regularly attending sessions. Many of our young players will be entering the competitive southern California tournament schedule this season for the first time, very exciting. If you get a chance to stroll by the courts on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday between 4:30 – 6pm, you will be in for a treat watching the kids play! On January 25th from 3 -5 pm we will be hosting the first All Sports Social of the New Year from 3 -5 pm. These socials offer residents and guests the opportunity to participate in a free tennis clinic as well as gather with others and take part in active games of Pickle Ball, Bocce Ball, Basketball and Horseshoes. The fitness center is booming with activity. Megan Harvey has returned and is busy training many of the homeowners and guests. Stop by the fitness center to meet Megan, there is no better time to realize your fitness wishes than the New Year! Looking forward to seeing you all at your Athletic Center. CHARLIE MOORE Director of Tennis & Athletics cmoore@desertprincesscc.com
DESERT PRINCESS CRAFTERS Thank you to all of you who helped us with donations to the six charities that we honor. They are: Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club, Cathedral City Police Department, Cathedral Palms senior Center, Mt. San Jacinto High School special program, Operation Safe House and Troops in Afghanistan. The seniors at Cathedral Palms were delighted with the bags of Christmas gifts presented to them on December 18th along with two gift cards. One gift card from Wal-Mart and one from LaBella Roma. For some, this is their only Christmas. Our regular meeting is on Wednesdays from noon until 4 pm in the Masters Lounge. We'd be delighted if you joined us. If you have art/craft supplies that you no longer want, please feel free to donate them. We are also open to all kinds of new ideas. We also take donations of household items, clothing etc. to take to our seniors. Many items can be used by some of the other charities. All of the charity items are donated in the name of Desert Princess as they are all in the local area. If you have questions, please call. The phone numbers are : Barbara Gibson 327-1320, Sharon Hadler 325-3263, Maureen McLaughlin 322-1232, Rosie Mascolo 288-2889, or Irene Ripley 325-6839.
IRENE RIPLEY Chairperson, Crafters
Rcr5950@aol.com
www.desertprincesscc.com
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ALC BREEZE RINGING IN A BRIGHT NEW YEAR! The holidays are now behind us and 2014 is in its infancy as the desert heads into peak season. Those homeowners and snowbirds who left for the holidays are returning to Desert Princess and we’re seeing many ALC Home Improvement Applications being submitted for approval. Condo front door painting, villa painting, retractable awnings, ornamental iron gates, and satellite dishes are topping the list of “to do” items, although we have seen many more solar panel installations in the past year. Just a reminder…any sort of exterior work whether it’s landscape or architectural, requires the submission of an ALC Home Improvement Application to the HOA. Many items are “Staff Approval” meaning that if the work to be done is standard and able to be approved by the applicable staff supervisor, it can be approved within a matter of days and does not have to be held until the monthly ALC meeting. But if the staff feels there’s something out of the ordinary with which they are uncomfortable or uncertain, they will notify the homeowners and defer the application to the next ALC meeting agenda. In the past couple of years a number of items have become Staff Approvals: screen doors and security doors; garage doors; water filtration systems; satellite dish installations; villa painting; condo and villa front door painting; condo and villa front door glass inserts; condo glass transoms; window replacements; solar panel installations; ornamental iron gates; condo wrought iron fencing for golf cart areas; Bahama shutters for both condos and villas; low voltage landscape lighting and some landscape changes, just to name a few. Of course, in each instance, the homeowners are apprised of the governing rules and procedures that pertain to the work they are requesting and are notified in writing with the approval of their applications by appropriately licensed contractors. Needless to say, this has been beneficial to streamlining the process for both management and the homeowners alike.
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MORE ORNAMENTAL IRON GATES ARE BEING INSTALLED The first ornamental iron gate…and the first Bahama shutter…on a condo has been installed at 28802 Desert Princess Drive. Both look great and bring a new dimension to the home. As with the villas, the condos are permitted to paint their gates in either the approved wrought iron color that matches the particular building color scheme or in the approved bronze color that’s on display on the Bahama shutter sample in the HOA conference room. This also holds true for the condo wrought iron fencing that’s permitted for golf cart parking areas. The gate is Design D—‘Chateau’ and looks beautiful. Also, the first ornamental iron gate on a Classic Series home has been installed at 67710 South Trancas, which is the villa that’s directly adjacent to Pool 30. The homeowners recently painted their Buena Vista/Plan 4 Classic Series house and updated their landscaping, adding an entry with pillars to define their courtyard; The results are stunning. The ornamental iron gate is also Design D—‘Chateau’ and adds a perfect touch of elegance to this lovely home. Welcome back to one and all. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of our gorgeous community when you’re out and about this year.
GAIL WILSON 2013-14 ALC Chairperson
alc@desertprincesscc.com
Water Otters
Homeowners! If you have a raccoon issue, please call the HOA to have the Maintenance Team set up traps. Removal of such pests is handled by Animal Control.
Summer's heat and Winter's cold, the seasons pass, the Water Otters continue to roll. For healthy exercise, join us on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from. 9 to 10 am in the Spa pool. Bring your noodle, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, $3 and your sense of humor! If you have questions, call or email me.
Cathy Higgins 760-778-3629 bobcat4122@aol.com
Check out the
DESERT PRINCESS Channel at:
www.youtube.com/ DesertPrincessYT www.desertprincesscc.com
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SAFE & SOUND Happy New Year, Desert Princess! 2013 was a great year for the Patrol Services Department. We worked on many aspects of our operation to improve the overall sense of security here at the Desert Princess Country Club. I’d like to take this opportunity to review some of the improvements over the last 12 months that have impacted the Desert Princess Experience in a positive way. In 2013 we had several equipment upgrades to help better assist our efforts. One was the introduction of our new access control system. The new system went live in April 2013 and has been a vast success over its predecessor. The accuracy in reading a transponder as a vehicle approaches is in the lower 90 percentile. However, there were some obvious growing pains that some of you can probably attest to. The majority of the issues have been identified and addressed and as we continue into 2014, we’re optimistic about bringing the accuracy of the reader into the higher 90 percentile. If you are still having trouble with the gates not opening consistently, please see me or the HOA. Our Surveillance upgrade was initiated this past year as well. The much older analog system was replaced by a state-of-the art, digital HD system. The initial phase of the upgrade consisted of 12 new mega pixel cameras, with applications at the Vista Chino and Landau Gates, as well as at the Clubhouse. Moving forward in to 2014, we are looking into increasing our coverage with a second phase of cameras. I will keep you up to date on that project in the months to come. Some Policy’s & Procedures have also evolved in 2013. One problem that persisted throughout 2012 and into last year was the consistent damage sustained to our barrier arms at the Landau Gate. In June of 2013, the Patrol Services Committee approved the purchase and usage of a new arm, made of lighter material that could withstand impact from a vehicle much better than the previous ones. In addition to the new arms, a recommendation from the Patrol Service Committee
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to impose a strict $250 fine plus cost of repairs for damage to the arms was approved by the Board and adopted. Since then, we have had a significant decrease in incidents involving broken barrier arms. Also in 2013, with the support of the Cathedral City Police Department, we introduced a new Trespass Policy. We founded a new Special Watch Program for Residents whom will be out of town for extended periods of time and as always, continued to adjust and improve our efforts to be most effective at deterring criminal activity. We rounded the year out with nearly a 40 percent decrease in criminal activity from 2012, and representing less than 2% of the total crime experienced in Cathedral City for 2013. It was a good year, but there is always room for improvement. As we usher in 2014, The Desert Princess Patrol Services looks to continue this trend, and plans to improve upon it.
FRANK STARKEY Post Commander
fstarkey@desertprincesscc.com
PATROL SERVICES COMMITTEE REPORT I'm happy to report that the month of November was fairly quiet with no serious criminal activity reported. Remember to keep all doors and windows closed and locked. This is especially important for those doors leading into your garage. Valuables in vehicles that are left in plain sight are also very tempting to thieves and they don't mind breaking your windows to steal your property. Drive safely on the property. Obey the speed limit signs. They are there for your safety. That is including stopping at all the stop signs. Have a great holiday and please report suspicious activity to our Patrol Services Department immediately at 1-760/322-0441. BOB RIPLEY Chairman, Patrol Services Committee
securitycommittee@desertprincesscc.com
Did you know.... Your membership card is waiting in the HOA Office for you. Stop by and pick it up today!
Harriet Homeowner Desert Princess Member
FOR YOUR SAFETY
Walking at Night... 1. ...is an accident waiting to happen, so please, after dark remember to: 2. Walk on the side of the road FACING on coming traffic. That way if the driver doesn’t see you, you will see him. 3. Bring a flashlight or flashing lights with you at all time. You are the person who is vulnerable. 4. Walk on the far side of the road. (Not down the middle of the street as you would if you were driving.)
Be careful out there!
www.desertprincesscc.com
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28 21
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10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch
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10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch Member - Member Women’s
Chili Cook-Off 11:30am - $7.95++p/p Includes Salad Bar & Cornbread
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6pm Karaoke
Ladies Play Day
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6pm Karaoke
Ladies Play Day
Ladies Play Day
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14
6pm Karaoke
Ladies Play Day
7
Tue
6pm Karaoke
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6
Mon
Member - Member Men’s 10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch
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10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch
5
Sun
January 2014
10:15 am Lady Putters meet at Chipping & Putting Green 12 pm - 4 pm Crafters Meeting Dinner & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30pm
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10:15 am Lady Putters meet at Chipping & Putting Green 12 pm - 4 pm Crafters Meeting Dinner & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30pm
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10:15 am Lady Putters meet at Chipping & Putting Green 12 pm - 4 pm Crafters Meeting Dinner & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30pm
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10:15 am Lady Putters meet at Chipping & Putting Green 12 pm - 4 pm Crafters Meeting Dinner & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30pm
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1 NEW YEARS DAY
Wed
Member Events
Tennis & Fitness
Spa
Master’s Lounge
Leon’s
Golf
6pm Village Fest
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6pm Village Fest
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6pm Village Fest
Jazz Night Live Music The Brian Nova Jazz Trio - $35++ p/p
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6pm Village Fest
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6pm Village Fest
2
Thu
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1:30 pm HOA Board Meeting 3 pm CC Board Meeting
Indian Hills 10:45 TT
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AAA Football Hall of Fame Dinner & Ceremony Cocktails @ 3 pm Dinner @ 6:30 pm
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3
Fri
Spa Hours: Daily 9 am - 6 pm
Golf Shop Hours: Daily 6 am - 5 pm
Member - Member Women’s
3 pm - 5 pm All Sports Social
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Ladies Choose Ups
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Ladies Choose Ups
AAA Hall of Fame Bowl @ College of the Desert 7 pm Member - Member Men’s
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Ladies Choose Ups
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Sat
Leon’s Hours: Wed-Sat 7 am - 9 pm; Mon, Tues & Sun 7 am - 6 pm Happy Hour: Mon.– Fri. from 3 pm - 6 pm Sunday Brunch 10 am - 2 pm
www.desertprincesscc.com
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Concours D’Elegance Car Show
10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch 6pm Karaoke
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6pm Karaoke
Club Championship (Men’s)
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6pm Karaoke
Club Championship (Men’s) Presidents Cup (Women’s)
10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch
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10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch
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10
9
12 pm Shotgun Quality Foods Golf Group
12 pm Shotgun Quality Foods Golf Group 6pm Karaoke
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Tue
3
Mon
10 am - 2 pm Champagne Brunch Super Bowl Party (details required) Couples Club Championships
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Sun
February 2014
Dinner & A Show (details required) 6pm Village Fest
Dinner & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30pm
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6pm Village Fest
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6pm Village Fest
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6pm Village Fest
Winter Classic (Women’s)
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Thu
Fri
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1:30 pm HOA Board Meeting 3 pm CC Board Meeting
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VALENTINES DAY 6 pm - Valentines Day Dinner
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Winter Classic (Women’s)
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Spa Hours: Daily 9 am - 6 pm
Golf Shop Hours: Daily 6 am - 5 pm
2 pm - 30th Annual Meeting @ Desert Princess Resort
Concours D’Elegance Car Show
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3 pm - 5 pm All Sports Social Club Championship (Men’s) Ladies Choose Ups Presidents Cup (Women’s) For the Love of Food & Wine (Details TBA)
Winter Classic (Women’s)
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Ladies Choose Ups
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Sat
Leon’s Hours: Wed-Sat 7 am - 9 pm; Mon, Tues & Sun 7 am - 6 pm Happy Hour: Mon.– Fri. from 3 pm - 6 pm Sunday Brunch 10 am - 2 pm
12 pm - 4 pm Crafters Meeting
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Dinner & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30pm
12 pm - 4 pm Crafters Meeting
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5:30 pm - 8:30pm
Dinner & Bingo
12-4 Crafters Meeting
2:30 pm Men’s & Women’s ‘Horse Races’
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12 pm Shotgun Quality Foods Golf Group 12-4 Crafters Meeting Dinner & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30pm
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Wed
Member Events
Tennis & Fitness
Spa
Master’s Lounge
Leon’s
Golf
WE’RE
OPEN
IN CATHEDRAL CITY The Hospital You Trust To Care For Those You Love
Our Patients Are Our Priority
INTE
RSTA TE 1
Racquet Club Drive Desert Regional Medical Center
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Vista Chino
E.Tachevah Drive
Ramon Road
PALM SPRINGS
CATHEDRAL CITY HIGHW AY 111
NORTH
30
Date Palm Drive
Trail
Landau Boulevard
Palm Springs International Airport
Gene Aurty
Sunrise Way
Indian Canyon Drive
Palm Canyon Drive
555 E. Tachevah Dr. Suite 2W-203 Palm Springs
27-765 Landau Blvd. Suite 104 Cathedral City
HAPPY HOUR
Sunday Happy HourTHROUGH FRIDAY MONDAY 3 to 6 pm
NEW new Happy HAPPY Hour bar HOUR menu! ALL DAY priceS Start at $4! MENU
2 pm to cloSe
Join us! deSert princeSS country club 28-555 landau blvd., catHedral city, ca www.desertprincesscc.com
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Your Desert Princess Real Estate Expert.
BILL HAMMERSLEY Desert Princess Country Club full-time resident since 2007, and highly qualified Real Estate Professional with over 7,100 successful closings representing buyers and sellers.
If you are considering selling your property in Desert Princess,
NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME. Call me today for a free property value analysis and marketing plan designed to sell your home.
760-641-8127
BillHammersley@Windermere.com
REALTOR速, CRS, ABR, GRI BRE# 01836339
Multi-Million Dollar Top Producing Agent
BILL $ELL$ DESERT PRINCESS!