Somersett Living Nov/Dec 2023

2022 Board of Directors

soaboard@somersett.org

Mark Capalongan President Jacob Williams Vice President

Anna Olea-Moger Vice President Clint Maples Treasurer Bill O’Donnell Secretary

soaboard@somersett.org

Please note: Three Board seats (Mark Capalongan, Bill O’Donnell and Jacob Williams) are up for election and will be filled after ballots are counted at the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 16.

Staff Directory

Nancy Kerry 775-571-9233

Community Manager Nancy.Kerry@mysomersett.com

Lorrie Olson 775-571-8695

Supervising Community Manager (CAM) Lorrie.Olson@mysomersett.com

Jessica McCarron 775-571-9479

Assistant Community Manager Jessica.McCarron@mysomersett.com

Sean Leonard 775-571-8059

Management Analyst Sean.Leonard@mysomersett.com

Ron Eckhardt 775-571-8050

Operations Manager Ron.Eckhardt@mysomersett.com

Robin Bolson 775-571-9643 Communications Manager Robin.Bolson@mysomersett.com

Devon Scott 775-571-9201 Administrative Assistant Devon.Scott@mysomersett.com

Hunter Edgar 775-571-8187 Resort Manager Hunter.Edgar@mysomersett.com

Steven Eaton 775-571-8080

Head Maintenance Tech steven.eaton@mysomersett.com

Robert Sweetin

Guest Services robert.sweetin@mysomersett.com

Town Square Business Spotlight: Grace Day Spa

All-Resident Events

Somersett Golf & Country Club

Kids’ Corner/TCTC Kids

Canyon Nine

Profile: Billinghurst Principal Jason Mallick

The Club at Town Center Reminders

Community Profile: Northern Nevada International Center

Holiday events in Somersett

Sports, Fitness & Wellness Classes

Somersett Owners Association

November & December 2022 Events Calendar

Somersett...It’s great to be home!

Whether you are a resident or just live nearby, Somersett has so much to offer the entire Reno community.

Sign up for our enewsletters

Did you know the SOA sends out a weekly enewsletter called Somersett Happenings?

It’s the best way to stay up-to-date on the latest SOA news, community events and more. To sign up, message robin.bolson@mysomersett.com or call her at 775-5719643.

Somersett Owners Association | The Club at Town Center | 7650 Town Square Way Reno, NV 89523 775-787-4500 | soa@somersett.org | somersett.org

Association Hours: Monday–Friday: 8 am to 5 pm. The SOA office will be CLOSED on Thanksgiving, Black Friday (Nov. 25), Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Club at Town Center Hours: Front Desk hours*

Saturday-Sunday: 10 am-4 pm Weekdays: 8 am-5 pm

The Clubhouse will be CLOSED on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. It will close at 2 pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve

Sierra Canyon Aspen Lodge: Tammy Leonard, Interim General Manager 775-624-2900 | sierra@ciramail.com

Somersett Living newsletter is Kathy Slocum subsidized by advertising and Just Imagine Marketing and Design is published by: 775-846-5656 | kathy@justimaginemktg.com

Designed by: J. Lewis Falconer Art & Design 775-507-9791 | j.lewisfal@gmail.com

The Village McKenna Fortier, FirstService Residential Onsite Associate & The Vue: 775-403-9107 | mckenna.fortier@fsresidential.com Office Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm 7608 Stone Bluff Way (inside the Village office space)

Front Cover: Members of the Events Committee at the Holiday Gala in 2021. From left: Louise Jordan, Sandy Capalongan, Kate Falcocchia, Sue Bartolotti, and Gina Bayless. Photo by Robin Bolson

Grace Day

While Somersett is a large community of over 3,300 homes, there aren’t many shops and businesses in the neighborhood which makes all the small businesses which are here special to residents. Somersett Town Square, located across the street from the Club at Town Center, is home to several businesses - many of which count most of their customers as local residents, and Grace Day Spa is one of them.

Grace Day Spa is owned by licensed cosmetologist Tami Grace, who for the last 4 years has been quietly helping the women of Somersett feel and look their best. Her ‘women-only’ spa offers the ladies of Somersett a convenient spot to take care of themselves. “The greatest self-care for many women is to retreat and rest in a peaceful environment where they can restore themselves from the inside out,” says Tami.

A deeply spiritual person, Tami feels discovering Somersett and opening her spa here was a blessing. She smiles and says, “At the time, I was considering many different locations around Reno, but every circumstance and door opened perfectly, at all the right times, which allowed Grace Day Spa to flourish into the beautiful space it is today, right here in Somersett!”

Tami is a bright light for many women of Somersett who visit her spa to recharge and relax close to home. We’re thankful for all the small businesses in our community, especially Tami.

This article, written by Kim Maples of the Communications Committee, is part of a series of spotlights focusing on Somersett businesses.

Unless otherwise noted, these events are open to all Somersett residents, including those who live in Sierra Canyon. For more information, go to www.somersett.org.

See page 22-23 for a roundup of Holiday Events in Somersett

Adult Social: Thanksgiving Potluck

Friday, Nov. 11, 5:30-8:30 pm

Come celebrate Thanksgiving with your Somersett neighbors! We will provide the turkey; all we ask is that you bring a side dish or dessert to share. You are also welcome to bring your favorite beverage. We will also provide plates, cups, and silverware. This event is free, but please register so that we can be sure to have plenty of tables, chairs, and supplies. See Somersett.org for more information.

Kids’ Movie Night

Friday, Nov. 18, 5:30-8:30 pm $15/child; ages 5-12

Your child will enjoy pizza while watching a family-friendly movie with their friends. They are welcome to dress in PJs and bring a pillow and a comfy blanket!

This event is for members of the Club at Town Center.

Guitar Lessons

All-Residents Events

Saturdays Nov. 12 and Dec. 10 from

10:15-11:30 am

$25; Open to ages 16-plus Pop and jazz solo artist Sara Thompson will offer beginner to intermediate acoustic and electric guitar lessons in the Canyon View Room. Bring your own guitar or you are welcome to share the instructor’s guitars. Register and pay at the front desk. Maximum of 4 students per class.

—GROUPS—

Open to all residents of Somersett, including those who live in Sierra Canyon

Acoustic Circle Jam

Second and fourth Sunday of each month: Nov. 13 + 27 and Dec. 11 5-7 pm

Join the Circle Jam and broaden your musical horizons with like-minded vocalists and instrumentalists in a fun, positive environment. All levels of acoustic guitar playing are welcome. A good singing voice is not required but it is a plus. New players are welcome to bring their favorite songs or song lists to share.

Bridge Club

Wednesdays, 1:30-4 pm

Join fellow bridge lovers for intermediate bridge at the Club. We usually have two to four tables, and we strive for complete tables so that everyone enjoys their playing time. For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Jan at haemmigJ@gmail.com.

Canasta

Fridays, 1-4 pm, Media Room

Join us on Fridays as we play Canasta, a card-melding game which is a variation of rummy. Many types of Canasta exist. Come learn to play or teach us your version of Canasta. Everyone is welcome. Questions? Contact Elyce Gilbert at Elyce.gilbert@gmail.com.

Care Matters

Mondays, Noon-2 pm

Fridays, 9:30-11:30 am

The Care Matters team turns plastic bags into “plarn,’’ then crochets the “plarn” into sleeping mats that are distributed to people in the Reno area without permanent shelter. The lightweight mats are waterproof and provide protection from the cold ground, while at the same time keeping plastic out of our landfills. Volunteers are welcome and experience is not required!

Mah Jongg

Mondays and Thursdays, 1-4 pm Mah Jongg is a challenging tile game that originated in China, and we’re playing it at the Club with the National Mah Jongg League rules and play card. Join us on Mondays and Thursdays to play or just watch, and feel free to bring a snack and nonalcoholic beverage.

Pinochle Club

Mondays & Tuesdays, 1-3 pm Pinochle players, we have a club just for you! Somersett’s pinochle club welcomes new or advanced players for three- or four-handed pinochle. Join us for this casual drop-in game here at the Club on Tuesday afternoons.

Somersett Golf & Country Club

November through December

Country Club Golf Shop Hours

November

8 am-5 pm Tuesday-Sunday

December

10 am-4 pm Tuesday-Sunday

Community Driving Range Hours

November

8:30 am-5 pm Tuesday-Sunday

December

10 am-4 pm Tuesday-Sunday

Country Club First Tee Times

November 9 am Tuesday-Sunday

December

11 am Tuesday-Sunday

*All times are weather-dependent. Please call the golf shop at 775-787-1800, Ext 2

Bocce Ball Court Hours

November

8 am-5 pm** Tuesday-Sunday

December

10 am-4 pm** Tuesday-Sunday **may play until dusk if in possession of own Bocce balls

For those interested in playing bocce please note there is a grooming rake/brush located in the cart barn of the clubhouse. Bocce balls and scoreboards may be checked out from the golf shop staff during operating hours.

Play the Tom Kite-designed Championship Country Club Course

All Somersett residents are welcome to play the Championship Country Club Course four times per year. Each resident may book a foursome of players at a rate of $80 per player (in-season) and $50 per player (off-season, November-March). This includes green fee, driving range usage, and golf cart. We take tee times for residents four days in advance at 787-1800, ext 2.

Men, please remember our dress code of no denim, collared golf shirts, and caps worn forward at all times. For the ladies no denim, no spaghetti-strapped tops, bare midriffs, or short shorts. Proper footwear, such as golf or tennis shoes, is required.

Golf

Driving Range

Somersett residents are encouraged to utilize the driving range at the Country Club. With the SOA/Country Club agreement range usage is complimentary off the synthetic mats. November through April residents may use the south side (closest to the parkway) when we are always on mats. The cost to utilize the putting green and chipping area in the winter is $10 please check in with the golf shop. Juniors must be accompanied by an adult.

Winter/Snow Season

We kindly ask that you refrain from winter activities on both of our golf courses during the winter season. We do not allow tubing, tobogganing, sledding, saucering, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, etc. on either golf course. Damage caused by this activity becomes apparent in the spring and playing conditions are greatly sacrificed. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Holiday gifts for the golfers on your list

Are you looking for that special gift for the golfer this holiday season? Check out the golf shop in the clubhouse for all of your apparel and equipment needs. We have accounts with all major companies and can special order items that are not in stock.

Golf Tip

As we head into winter and temperatures prevent many of us from heading out to the golf course, it is a great time to work on some easy putting fundamentals in the comfort of our homes.

I recommend a few simple putting fundamentals:

1. Place the ball slightly left of center (right-handers), with hands centered slightly forward of the body. The putter shaft should be perpendicular to the ground. This allows the putter to catch the ball on the ascent of the putter head.

2. Eyes over the ball OR slightly inside the ball. You might have to adjust the length you are holding the putter to accomplish this.

3. The motion of the putter includes shoulders, arms, hands, putter grip, and putter head, all working at the same tempo. Research shows the best putters

By Stuart Smith – PGA Director of Golf

adhere to a 2:1 tempo on all length putts.

4. I have found success in stabilizing my lower body by putting a little outward pressure on my knees. The lower body should remain stable with no side-to-side movement. 5. Allow the putter to swing on its natural arc. The putter is NOT designed to swing on a straight line, but rather on an arc. In contrast, a croquet mallet is designed to swing straight back and straight through.

PGA and LPGA tour players have tempos of 62-72 beats per minute regardless of the length of putt they face, which equates to approximately .90 seconds of elapsed time. The “holy grail” of putting tempo is 2:1 as evidenced by most of the great players. This would equal .60 seconds on the backstroke and .30 seconds on the through stroke. This highlight’s the acceleration through the ball. All of the putting greats do this.

Putting

Simply said 2 syllables back and 1 syllable through AP PLE PIE recited at the same speed no matter the length of putt. Strive for approximately .90 seconds total time (nearly one second) at this 2:1 tempo.

There are many apps and devices but if you are serious about improving, I recommend the Blast Motion Sensor for golf. It accurately measures 11 separate metrics most importantly tempo. At least check out the website: golf.blastmotion.com/golf/

Need help with your putting this winter?

Set up a lesson in our Short Game Arena here at the Country Club. Putting is one of the easiest things to improve upon with a little instruction. Our staff can be reached at 787-1800, Ext 2, or email me at HYPERLINK “mailto:ssmith@ somersett.com” ssmith@somersett.com to set an appointment.

We have buyers!

me if you are thinking about selling

home in the next 12 months

updated value. And if you are a buyer,

homes that are not on the market

need to know

have some

Meet Robert Sweetin

Guest Services

You may have noticed that the Club at Town Center has been shining a little brighter of late. As part of an ongoing effort to elevate the Club’s look and feel, we have switched from a contractor cleaning at night to in-house employees working during the day. One of the newest members of Team SOA is Robert Sweetin, whose goal is to make the facility sparkle.

For most of us, vacuuming and dusting is a chore, but for Robert, it’s a passion. “Even as a kid, my room was immaculate,’’ he says. “I love cleaning!’’

Before he came to Somersett, Robert worked in a similar position at a local company. He loves the friendly, supportive atmosphere he finds here at the Club. He’s already made a difference and has instituted an enhanced cleaning schedule with the attention to detail brought by someone who loves his job and takes pride in his work.

So the next time you see Robert around the Club most likely with a smile on his face and a cleaning implement of one kind or another in his hand be sure to say hello!

Do you know a Somersett resident/company we should profile? Let us know who they are and what makes them interesting. Email robin.bolson@mysomersett.com.

Kids’ Corner

Kids’ Corner Hours & Programming*

Monday through Thursday: 8:30-10:30 am & 10:30 am-12:30 pm and 5:30-7:30 pm Friday: 8:30-10:30 am & 10:30 am-12:30 pm | Closed Sunday

Kids’ Corner Policy Reminders

• Kids’ Corner will only accept children 18 months to 6 years of age. All children must be registered by a parent for Kids’ Corner prior to their first use of the room. Registration forms are available at the concierge desk or online at mysomersett.com.

• Parents with children who are not bathroom independent must remain on Club premises at all times when their child is in Kids’ Corner. This includes such activities as playing tennis, aerobics, using the fitness room, swimming or attending a special Club function.

• For the morning time slots, parents may sign their child up for either 8:30-10:30 am or 10:30 am-12:30 pm Monday through Friday and either 8-10 am or 10 am-12 pm on Saturday. Evening slot is from 5:30-7:30 pm, Monday through Thursday.

• The room operates on a six-to-one ratio, with a maximum of 12 children allowed at any given time. To accommodate this ratio, the Club requires reservations to be made at least 24 hours in advance to ensure staffing. Reservations may be made online at somersett.net seven days in advance.

• All children must be dropped off in Kids’ Corner within 15 minutes of their reservation time. If the parent has not checked in their child within the 15-minute window, the reservation becomes void, and the spot will be opened to a child on the waiting list.

TCTC Kids

Before- & After-School Program

Monday through Friday | Grades K-5

This program provides quality before- and after-school experience for children at a reasonable price. From the minute they step in our door in the morning or off the bus in the afternoon, your children will enter a safe, structured environment filled with activities and games, help with homework, tutoring, snacks prepared daily, and fun times with their Somersett friends.

Morning Program

7-8:30 am; $40/child/week; $15/child/day

The future has a lot of what ifs, and it’s a good feeling to have someone in your corner and around the corner to help you plan for them. Call me today.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Afternoon Program

3:30-6 pm; $60/child/week; $20/child/day

Both Morning & Afternoon $100/child/week; $35/child/day

Register: At the front desk

Winter Break Day Camp (Dec. 26-Jan. 6) 7 am-6 pm | Ages 5-12 $185/child/week; $45/child/day

The Club will host a multi-day camp while schools are closed for winter break. We will keep your children busy with games, experiments, crafts and snacks. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your child’s spot early!

Stop by the front desk to sign up or for more information.

Here’s the deal. I’ll be there for you.

Canyon Nine Golf Course

private

executive

walking

This is one of a series of articles featuring the schools where our youngest Somersett residents spend most of their time. Guest author: Kim Maples, Somersett resident and parent

Walking into B.D. Billinghurst Middle School’s entry quad I’m immediately intrigued with the hundred or so flags hanging high above me giving me a very Harry Potter Hogwarts feel. Each flag has a logo and a year displayed, such as “Black Lightning 2005” or Maximum Velocity 1996.”

When I ask Billinghurst Principal Jason Mattick about the banners, he exclaims, “Yes! Those are our 7th & 8th grade student’s team names. After each 8th grade class promotes out of Billinghurst, we retire their banner with the decades of other teams that have come and gone through this building.” He explains that students have been grouped into teams since the day the school first opened, under the direction of founding Principal Ken Vaughan. Teams encourage increased collaboration, morale, leadership, and team building. Sixth graders come into Billinghurst as a single, smaller cohort

Coffee Talk with B.D. Billinghurst Principal Jason Mattick

Who is Benson Dillon Billinghurst?

He served as a Superintendent of schools in Reno from 1908-1935, leading the school system into the modern era. He authored many of Nevada’s educational laws and introduced the junior high school system, vocational classes, and adult education classes to Reno.

where they’re gently introduced to the rigors of middle school. Then when they move to 7th grade, they are grouped into academic teams for their duration at Billinghurst. They keep the same core teachers for both years and mix in a handful of electives, and an enrichment class to start every day. Teams pick a name and have their own T-shirts and unique cheers. Students respond positively to the friendly competition, but most importantly to bonding with adults in the building by cultivating a trusting and positive relationship during these middle school years.

Each flag represents a unique group of students that have come through Billinghurst. I’m sure there are a few Somersett Billinghurst alums who know exactly where their flag is hanging.

Now, a little about Principal Mattick his love for the Sierra Nevadas and all four seasons brought him to Reno from Southern Nevada. He graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno, with a degree in Math and Secondary Education. An avid outdoorsman, he spent many winters working at Northstar ski resort. During college and after graduation he taught Algebra at Reno High School for 13 years while coaching the

high school football team and forming their ski and fly-fishing clubs. With a penchant for data and statistics, he proudly led the formation of the Sophomore Success Program at Reno HS to close an achievement gap with sophomores successfully improving their grades and core credit successes. In 2008 he earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. Jason loved teaching high school and didn’t expect to leave but an opportunity as the Dean of Students arose at Clayton Middle School where he fell in love with the middle school days. After a year, he was promoted to Assistant Principal at Cold Springs Middle School for two years. He then moved to Northwest Reno and B.D. Billinghurst as the Assistant Principal during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, in 2021, Jason officially moved into the role of Principal at Billinghurst Middle School.

Jason has two children aged 11 and 9 and the three of them can be found enjoying the outdoors with their two dogs, or at sporting events in our community.

When asked about the importance of middle school, he passionately explains that “this is an incredibly important time of a child’s life. They’re going through a lot chemically and emotionally and the time we spend lays the foundation for how successful they’ll be in high school and in life.” Jason is a very energetic person and shares with me the school’s “Bighorn Attitude” philosophy where students are encouraged to “Bring their A-game!” Aim to do their best and be the best version of themselves. He includes local neighborhood influences such

as Somersett in creating each student’s “Bighorn Nation,” because the community holds huge influence on the success of students. “We all play a part,” Jason says. “We’re always looking to the community to aid in the success of students with donating, fundraising, and volunteering in the school, but more importantly, it is a mindset or vibe that we are all in this together, raising these young humans together. Grocery clerks, bankers, mail delivers, bus drivers, custodians, kitchen workers, teachers, parents, the list goes on. We ALL impact a middle schooler’s journey and life course, and that excites me!”

Somersett families are proud to be a part of the Bighorn Nation and are happy to have such dedicated and passionate educators helping our kids prepare for the independence that comes with graduating to high school. Thank you to the entire B.D. Billinghurst staff for your commitment to bringing your A-game to school every day for the benefit of our families!

Quick facts about Westergard:

1. 900 students pulling from Westergard, Verdi, Winnemucca, and Melton elementary schools

2. Students mostly move on to Robert McQueen High School

3. Opened in 1992

4. Mascot is “Thunder” the Bighorn

5. Billinghurst was originally located on Plumas, where the original gymnasium still stands.

Courageous Conversations on

The Club at Town Center Reminders

General Club Rules

Members must check in to the facility upon entering. Members may be turned away if they cannot provide valid ID.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT: Members must secure a time slot to use fitness classes, the Lap Pool and the Tennis Courts. Space is limited. Reservations may be made through Zen Planner (recommended) or over the phone (787-4500) up to 72 hours in advance. Please be considerate of other residents and only reserve time slots you will actually use!

ZEN PLANNER: Zen Planner is the amenity reservation system used by the Club at Town Center. To gain access, send an email to accesszenplanner@somersett.org and include the following information:

» Your first and last name

» Your Somersett address

» Phone number

» The email you’d like to use for Zen Planner access Once we approve your status as a Club Member, we will send you an email invitation with a temporary password (this may take up to 72 hours).

How to get your card: Stop by the front desk and fill out a waiver form and you will be given a key fob, key card, or a link to the app which staff will activate once your residency is authenticated.

Do you live behind a gate? We are in the process of updating our gate cameras and gate access systems to one which is compatible with the access cards. Eventually you will be able to use the same fob, card, or app that you use to enter the Club to open your community gates (at this point you will no longer need your gate clicker). As of press time for this magazine, only Mountain Crest gates had the new system up and running. Tennis Courts and Lap Pool: The Lap Pool and Tennis Court gates also open with the Access Pass. You still need to reserve a tennis court or lap swim spot through Zen Planner, but you may access the courts and pool with your access card.

WHAT IS A SOMERSETT E-PASS?

The E-Pass is a digital resident verification card. If you download it to the wallet on your phone, you can easily present the pass when you arrive at the Club or the pool, with no need give your name and address for resident verification.

How do I get an E-Pass? Type this URL into your browser and follow the instructions: https://bit.ly/3Jekhgx

GUEST FEES

$10 adult; $8 junior. Members are allowed to bring up to four guests at one time for a maximum of 10 visits per guest. Members must accompany guests at all times.

RSVP POLICY

Please remember to RSVP for programs by the deadline listed so we can ensure that enough supplies and staff are available. All fees are due at the time of reservation. Unless stated otherwise, cancellations must be made 48 hours before an event to receive a refund. No refunds will be given for no shows. Unless noted, all events are for residents only. If residents choose to bring a guest, event and guest fees apply.

CLUB DOOR ACCESS CARDS

If you don’t yet have an after-hours access card, be sure to stop by the front desk at the Club and get a key fob, key card, or a link to the app (your choice). The security access cards are working well for the over 1,000 residents who have signed up, which allows access to the Club seven days a week from 5 am to 9 pm when the doors are locked. If you don’t have an access card, the front doors will be open for check-in:

• Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm

• Most weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm

LATE PICK-UP FEE

The Club will charge a late pick-up fee for any child not picked up within 15 minutes of a program’s end time, including Kids’ Corner. Following the 15-minute grace period, a $5 fee will be charged for every 10 minutes your child remains with us.

Somersett Country Club

B

Amenities

THE CLUB AT TOWN CENTER A 22,000 square foot, 9 million dollar facility which includes the Canyon Nine par 3 golf course, 27 miles of hiking and biking trails.

POOLS/SPAS A resort pool with a 98 foot water slide, three lane junior Olympic pool and two full spas.

THE GREAT ROOM Enjoy a sunset, relax with a book in front of the fireplace, check your e-mail from your laptop on the wireless network or watch the golfers on the Canyon Nine from the outdoor deck.

AEROBICS STUDIO Cardio kick boxing, sculpting, spinning, yoga or pilates classes wor sign up with a personal trainer.

CARDIO-WEIGHT STUDIO Elliptical exercise bikes or treadmills available

SPORTS COURT/INDOOR BASKETBALL game of hoops or watch a production Sports Court is truly a multipurpose room three basketball hoops, hardwood floors, stage.

boxing, body classes available...

Elliptical trainers, for strength training.

BASKETBALL Play a production on the stage. The room complete with floors, community

Somersett Homeowners Golf Course

The Canyon Nine is an executive nine-hole par 3 course designed by U.S. Champion Tom Kite. It is the perfect place for learning the game or enjoying a quick round after work. The course is an amenity for all residents of Somersett, including those living in Sierra Canyon by Del Webb.

a Brae Retreat

Desert Wind Homes Located at the first roundabout (775) 233-1910 DesertWindHomes.com

The Cliffs at Somersett

B

2205 Cold Creek Trail (775) 277-3200 TheCliffsAtSomersett.com

Leading with Open Heart and Open Home

By Diane Williams

An open heart and open home policy has never been a foreign concept for me and my husband. Serving as missionaries for more than 16 years, we understood first hand the power of hospitality in new and unfamiliar environments. When we stumbled upon the University of Nevada, Reno’s Northern Nevada International Center (NNIC) advertisement seeking shortterm (6-12 days) home hosts for exchange participants five years ago, we were quick to investigate.

NNIC is highly lauded in our community for their work in resettling refugees along with language interpretation

and translation services, but a lesser-known component of the nonprofit is their exchange programs. These programs engage some of the most intelligent, innovative and entrepreneurial minds from across the globe as they dive deeper into their pursuits across the country and, often, right here in the Biggest Little City. With individuals hailing from diverse locations such as Brazil, Africa, and Korea, the organization bridges students and professionals to opportunities in northern Nevada while giving them opportunities to draw closer to American culture. We hoped to be a warm and inviting family for these bright young minds to connect with.

Before inviting our first international guest Leila (from Algeria) into our home, the organization primed us with information to ensure her stay was comfortable for everyone involved. We sat in a home hosting seminar to understand information about their home countries and cultural nuances we should be aware of. They even provided halal meat (similar to kosher meat, but slaughtered by a Muslim, rather than by a Jewish individual) to ensure her dietary needs would be met. The majority of the day the students are off participating in activities with the organization, so time with host families

is largely spent in the evenings and on weekends. Leila was coming to town for only 12 days, so we wanted to ensure her stay was comfortable so she could make the most of her trip.

Upon welcoming Leila into our home, we were gifted with so much cheer, learning about her and her family. She shared stories of her daily life back in Algeria, and we heard the highlights of her day-to-day experiences in the states. We made an effort to create dishes that reflected both Leila’s heritage and ours, forging a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures when we got to break bread together. It was a little surreal watching her stand in front of the mountains of cereal and bread in Walmart, mouth ajar. In another excursion, we realized how many options we truly have nearby as she meandered through Costco samples with sheer excitement. Leila got to see our life through new eyes, and it was a feeling so pure that it’s difficult to describe without experiencing it first hand. It has now been five years since she was in our home, but we remember these anecdotes like they were yesterday. The relationship we nurtured in that time has kept us close and allowed us to stay close as she grows up and completes incredible things.

Our family has also created amazing bonds with fellow home host families. From holding barbeques and pool days to heading out for horseback riding excursions, we have worked together to create everlasting memories that we hope our guests will carry home with them.

We fully endorse participation in home hosting through Northern Nevada International Center but there is one drawback we must warn you about… the goodbyes come quickly and they never get easier. Many of ours have even been filled with tears. Still, we wouldn’t trade any single experience. It’s truly a gift to be able to connect with new friends so deeply as they experience new things in our hometown. Every experience reminds us that, despite all that makes us different across our culture, there is so much that unites us.

Our commitment to home hosting will persist as long as we have an extra room to spare, and if you have the opportunity to host as well, we encourage you: take it. Your life will be enriched.

I know our family has been enriched in ways we simply could not have imagined, and I wish the same for yours!

Meet your neighbors behind those holiday displays on

Deerbrook Court

If you drive west on Somersett Parkway on a December evening, it’s impossible not to notice the glow on your left just past Roundabout 4. That’s the epic holiday display on Deerbrook Court, which has won Best Street in Somersett’s Neighborhood of Lights decorating contest every year since its inception in 2017.

We were curious why does the neighborhood do this and what does it take to pull it off?

“We’ve always loved Christmas and spreading joy,’’ explains Deerbrook Court resident Tierra Bonaldi, who according to her neighbors is the driving force behind the displays. Although Tierra and her husband Louis have been decorating for about 10 years, the Neighborhood of Lights event and the idea of a competition inspired them to kick it up a notch or 10.

“I thought (the contest) was a nice way to help the whole community elevate their holiday displays,” Tierra says, giving credit to event sponsors Stephanie Hanna, Brett Charbonneau, and Jason Kirby, who came up with the idea.

But what happens when a new resident moves in? Are they aware of what happens to the street in December? The Bonaldis’ neighbor Brian Viney says he lived in another house in Somersett and noticed Deerbrook Court and thought, “that’s like a Griswold street!’’ Lo and behold, the next July, he moved to the neighborhood. “You know what?

It’s great,’’ he says. “When you see the procession of people

driving through just to see the decorations, that’s amazing. It brings that environment of cheer, joy, and celebration to everyone. It’s not just for us.’’

“Sometimes we sit out in lawn chairs just to watch people drive by,’’ adds Tierra, who says that she notifies real estate agents about the December displays when a neighboring home goes up for sale.

Although mounting displays this huge is a lot of work, the Bonaldis, Brian Viney, and neighbor Dan Rowan do everything themselves from stringing lights to building structures. They start on the Friday morning after Thanksgiving and finish by Sunday evening.

And Tierra has been known to put lights up on homes when for one reason or another a neighbor was unable to decorate. One year, a neighbor was in the middle of a remodel. “I told them, all I need is a power outlet!’’ She even festooned the dumpster in the driveway.

A popular part of the display is the mailbox. “The letters to Santa are huge. The letters will make you cry,’’ says Tierra. When Covid hit, some of the letters were heartbreaking. “I just want my Grandma to be better,’’ wrote one young person. Everybody on Deerbrook collects the letters and sends them to the North Pole and most kids get a letter back. (One of Santa’s elves happens to live on the street “She’s a rock star,’’ says Brian.)

“I’d love other streets to be inspired by us,’’ says Tierra, adding that Deerbrook Court wants more homes to enter the contest.

OK Somersett, the challenge has been issued. Will you join your neighbors on Deerbrook Court and help make Somersett shine even brighter this holiday season?

See page 22 for information about Neighborhood of Lights.

Deerbrook Court residents, from left: Louis Bonaldi, Brian Viney, Tierra Bonaldi, and Dan Rowan.

The Holidays in Somersett

Somersett is THE place to celebrate the holiday season!

The Events Committee and Somersett staff are cooking up a festive lineup of events, so, mark your calendars and come one, come all, and let’s have a jolly old time together!

Be sure to check the Somersett Happenings enewsletters or the Calendar on Somersett.org for more information and links to ticket sales. These seasonal events are open to all Somersett residents, including those who live in Sierra Canyon.

Holiday Tree Lighting

Thursday, Dec. 1 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm

The Club at Town Center | Free

Kick off the holiday season with a lighting ceremony for the beautiful tree that made its debut last year in the Great Room of the Club at Town Center. The fun begins at 5:30 p.m. and will include a sing-along to holiday songs in the Great Room (featuring our “new’’ grand piano!), a chance to visit with Santa and snag some family photos with him in the Canyon View Room, seasonal crafts for kids in the Sports Court, treats, hot chocolate, and other familyfriendly festivities leading up to the main event the treelighting countdown at 6:30 pm! If you experienced this last year, you know what a special “moment’’ this countdown will be. Don’t miss this!

Holiday Gala

Saturday, Dec. 3, from 5:30-10 pm

The Club at Town Center | $100/person

Let’s get dressed up and enjoy this special celebration at the Club at Town Center, which will be freshly decorated for the season! Enjoy a cocktail hour featuring harpist Anne Rose followed by a delicious catered meal from Cherry Bomb, an open bar, festive desserts, and then the infectious sounds of Margret’s Funk Band will have everyone dancing the night away. This will be a night to remember!

Sixth Annual Neighborhood of Lights

Open to all Somersett residents

Sign up by Nov. 30 Contest runs December 1-16

The Sixth Annual Neighborhood of Lights will once again light up the community in December! This mapped tour of homes decked out in holiday displays is a favorite tradition here in Somersett. Children and adults alike appreciate seeing their community sparkle with the spirit of their neighbors’ decorating efforts as they vote for their favorite displays.

We hope you will consider entering your home to be entered into our contest and featured on our map of decorated homes. Categories are:

• Classic: Traditional decorations

• Griswold: Over-the-top fun

• Young People’s Choice: Displays appealing to those under age 17

• Just Decorating: You have holiday decorations that your neighbors might enjoy, but you don’t want your display to be voted on. All addresses in this category will be entered into a raffle for a prize.

• Best Street: Get together with your neighbors and enter your street in this coveted category. To qualify for this category, a minimum of 4 homes on your street must participate. It does NOT need to be every home on your street.

To enter, fill out the Neighborhood of Lights entry form on the home page of Somersett.org or email Robin Bolson at robin.bolson@mysomersett.com. The deadline to enter is Dec. 1.

TOUR THE DISPLAYS AND VOTE:

From Dec. 1- 16, enjoy the displays with your family and friends and vote for your favorites. A link to a map of participating homes will be posted on the home page of Somersett.org starting on Dec. 1, along with a link to a ballot.

MORE INFO:

We will post further details about the Neighborhood of Lights map, the Holiday Caravan and the Holiday Party on Somersett.org and in the weekly Somersett Happenings newsletters (to subscribe, email Robin.Bolson@mysomersett.com).

Many thanks to our community partners for this event, The Kirby Team, Stephanie Hanna of Synergy Home Mortgage and the Brett Charbonneau American Family Insurance Agent!

Holiday Caravan and Neighborhood of Lights Party

Saturday, Dec. 17, at 4:30 pm

Meet in front of the Club at Town Center in your vehicle (holiday decorations are encouraged!) | Free Golf carts and other vehicles decked out in holiday lights and decorations will tour highlights from the Neighborhood of Lights entries, waving and spreading holiday cheer to all who come out to greet them (this will take about an hour). When the caravan returns to the Club, we will treat participants to a Holiday Party featuring DJ Bobby Dee and an announcement of the Neighborhood of Lights winners.

Sports, Fitness & Wellness Classes

For a complete description of all our classes and a current calendar, please visit the Fitness Classes page on www.somersett.org.

Please note that Fitness Classes will operate on a limited schedule November 24-27 and December 24 through January 2 due to the holidays.

Saturdays in the Sierras with Linda

Nov. 12

Meet at the Club at 9 am Location is to be determined

Join Linda and your neighbors for these exhilarating hikes in our beautiful mountains. Bring your own water, sunscreen, and snack. This is a carpooling event, weather permitting. Register through Zen Planner.

Pickleball

Outdoors on Tennis Court 2 Indoors in the Sports Court: Wednesdays/Fridays, 1-4 pm & Saturdays/Sundays, 11-2 pm

Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Even if you’ve never played this beginner-friendly game before, come on out and join the fun! No equipment is needed — everything is provided.

After your game, indoor play equipment must be stowed away neatly for the next player. Please move the nets on the tennis court to the fence to prevent damage.

Reservations are necessary and are available through Zen Planner.

Personal Training

Personal training is a great way to get personalized fitness routines designed to increase your performance and get results. Whether you are new to the gym, coming back after some time off, or you want to shake up your normal routine, our personal trainers can help you work out safely efficiently.

The Club has two personal trainers. Dell Etherly specializes in strength and conditioning and Erica Clark’s focus is fitness and mobility. For more information, look for brochures near the front desk.

Age Limits in the Gym

Children under 14 years of age are not permitted to use the fitness facilities, including the fitness room and group fitness classes. Children ages 14-17 MUST complete a fitness waiver and meet with a member of Club staff regarding fitness etiquette prior to using the fitness center or aerobics classes.

Fitness Questions

For information about our free classes, fitness equipment, personal training and pricing, please visit our website at www.somersett.org or contact Michael-Dean Williamson at md.williamson@mysomersett.com. If you are new or simply curious about our strength-training equipment, call today to arrange a complimentary fitness orientation.

All outdoor amenities (tennis, pool, golf) are weather-permitting during winter months

Massage & Spa

Massage is a terrific way to reduce stress, relax, disconnect for a while, and do something nice for your body. Even a single massage session has been shown to significantly lower heart rate, cortisol, and insulin levels — all of which help reduce daily stress and lead to a more balanced life.

The Club at Town Center’s massage therapist Linda Morgan (Lic. #6696) is available to give you a customized massage based on your individual needs. Linda’s specialties include soft and deep tissue massage, relaxation, rejuvenation, and sports stretching techniques. She also offers lymphatic and Reflexology treatments. Additionally, Linda is a certified yoga instructor who can help design a home routine that will help bring relief to your problem areas.

So, why not treat yourself and schedule a massage today!

For more information, pick up a brochure at the front desk.

Massages are open to ALL Somersett residents, including Sierra Canyon.

Nov/Dec 2022 POOL INFO

FALL WINTER POOL INFO

Play Pool and Lower Spa

The Play Pool and Lower Spa are open, weather-permitting, all year round for members of the Club at Town Center to enjoy. Swim at your own risk no lifeguards are on duty!

Upper Spa

Open: 8 am – 7 pm

Lap Pool

Open: 8 am – 7 pm

Lap swim is by reservation only. One session per resident per day. Reservations may be made through Zen Planner or over the phone (787-4500).

Aquatic Weather Policy

Management reserves the right to close the pools at any time due to cold temperatures causing ice on the pool deck.

SPA RULES

1. Extended exposure to hot water or vapors may be detrimental to the health of elderly persons and persons with heart conditions, diabetes or high or low blood pressure.

2. People with skin, ear, genital or other body infections, open sores or wounds should not use the hot tub due to the possibility of spreading infection.

3. Do not ingest water by mouth as this can cause infection and illness. Parents are to warn children not to allow water in their mouths.

4. The heat of the hot tub water speeds up the effects of alcohol and can cause sleepiness, dizziness and unconsciousness.

Horseplay, splashing, swimming and diving are not permitted in the spas

On-site office is located at The Club at Town Center. Assessment mailing address: Somersett Owners Association, P.O. Box 98263, Phoenix, AZ 85038-0263. Association hours are Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. The SOA office will be CLOSED on Thanksgiving, Black Friday (Nov. 25), Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Rules & Regulations Tips

When can I put up my Holiday Lights?

Holiday decorations may be installed up to 10 days before a holiday and must be taken down within 10 days after the holiday, with the exception of the December holidays. December decorations may be installed beginning at Thanksgiving and must be removed by January 31.

Accounting Portal

You can check your account balance, update your contact information, and more through Somersett’s accounting portal: https://somersett.vmsclientonline.com/ How to access the portal: Your username is your new account number OR your email of record. If you don’t know your password, click on the Forgot Password link and follow the prompts. If you have any questions, email soa@somersett.org and we will be happy to help you.

Compliance Information

To report a non-compliance, please email soa@somersett.org or call 775-787-4500. While we do investigate and document each complaint received, we cannot disclose the status of anyone’s account. Should a homeowner not respond to or correct a violation, he or she will be summoned to a hearing and could be suspended from the Club and assessed fines. The Association has a policy not to enter a property unless it is bank owned, and then only to repair front-yard landscaping.

Somersett Owners Association

2022 Meeting Schedule

Any changes to the meeting dates will be updated online on

SOA Board & Committees Meeting Calendar on www. somersett.org. Executive sessions and Aesthetic Guidelines Committee meetings are not open to residents other than those who are on the agenda. Communications, Facilities, Events, West Park Garden and Finance committee meetings as well as meetings of the Board of Directors are open to all owners and are held at The Club at Town Center. They are also open to members via Zoom.

November

2:00 pm

12:00 pm

2:30 pm

6:00 pm

4:00 pm

10:00 am

3:00 pm

Night

Garden

CLOSED

Annual Members Meeting

SOA CLOSED

SOA CLOSED

12:00 pm

2:30 pm

2:00 pm

4:00 pm

10:00 am

3:00 pm

4:00 pm

6:00 pm

Garden

2022 Board Election

You should receive Board election ballots and candidate statements this week. They were sent by U.S. Mail as per Nevada law. Nevada law also requires that all directors be elected by secret written ballot. Only you can vote on your secret ballot, which must be completely filled in and placed in the envelope marked secret ballot. It will not be opened until the Annual Meeting at 3 pm on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at The Club at Town Center.

Returning your Ballot

• Ballots returned by U.S. Mail must be sent to The Club at Town Center, 7650 Town Square Way, Reno, NV 89523 and received by November 16.

• Ballots may also be returned in person to the ballot at the Club at Town Center, no later than noon on November 16.

• No ballots will be accepted at the annual meeting.

2022 Board Election

This is an opportunity for SOA members to get to know this year’s candidates for the three open Board positions. The Communications Committee will ask prepared questions and if the event has not exceeded the two-hour target by the end of the final closing statement, there will be time for questions from members. When: Monday, Nov. 7, from 6-8 pm Where: The Canyon View Room at the Club at Town Center

SOA Closed

SOA Closed

SOA Closed

Meeting Agendas and Minutes

Agendas for Board of Directors’ meetings will be posted online at www.somersett.org at least five days prior to the scheduled meeting. Final minutes will be posted once they have been approved at the next scheduled meeting. For a draft copy of minutes, please submit your request to soa@somerett.org.

meeting agendas (other than AGC) will be posted on the Meeting Calendar on www.somersett.org when they become available, a few days before the meeting date. Zoom access information is also available on the Meeting Calendar.

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