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The official magazine of The Desert Princess Country Club & Homeowners Association, published nine times per year.
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DESERT PRINCESS Country Club & HOA Newsletter December 2013
Happy Holidays!
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Country Club28-555 Landau Blvd.Cathedral City, CA 92234Phone (760) 322-1655 Fax: (760) 322-2741Reception Hours: Daily 8 am - 6 pm
Country Club ManagerBrandon O’Neill CMAA®, AGM®, ext. [email protected]
Member Guest Services & EventsDori Petee, ext. [email protected]
Director of Food & BeverageJim Carvajal, ext. [email protected]
Clubhouse BarExt. 128Hours: Sunday - Saturday 10 am to Close
Clubhouse DiningLeon’s at Desert PrincessFor Reservations, (760) 325-5002Chef John “JP” Painter, ext. [email protected]
Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerOpen Monday through Saturday - 6:30 am – 9 pm Sunday - 6:30 am – 6 pmSunday Brunch - 10 am - 2 pmHappy Hour Monday - Friday - 3 - 6 pmNFL football in the Restaurant BarMonday and Thursday evenings Starting at 4 pm
Lagos CaféPhone: (760) 778-3624Hours: 6:30 am - 3 pm Daily
Golf ShopPhone: (760) 322-2280Tee Times (760) 322-7779Hours: Open Sun - Saturday 6 am - 5pm Rand Veal, Director of [email protected]
Tennis & Athletics28-600 Isleta CourtPhone: (760) 322-5178Hours: Mon - Fri 6 am - 7 pm Sat & Sun 7 am - 5 pmCharlie Moore, Director of Tennis & [email protected]
Spa28-600 Isleta CourtPhone: (760) 322-2293Hours: Monday - Sunday 9 am - 6 pmMerryl Rose, Spa [email protected]
HOA Administrative Office28-211 Desert Princess Dr.Cathedral City, CA 92234Phone (760) 322-1907 Fax: (760) 327-9699Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 4 pmClosed weekends & holidays
Community ManagerJessica Vela, CCAM®, CMCA®, ext. [email protected]
ControllerPamela Jaymes, ext. [email protected]
Member RelationsMaria Cintron, ext. [email protected]
Director of MarketingGrace Taylor Segal, ext. [email protected]
For Work OrdersFacilities / Landscape / PoolsGolf Course MaintenancePhone: (760) 322-1907 or submit online at:www.desertprincesslive.com
Patrol Services - Vista Chino GatePhone: (760) 322-0441Frank Starkey, Post [email protected]
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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.
Editor & Graphic Designer Grace Taylor Segal
Editorial & Sales AssistantDori Petee
Published byDesert Princess Homeowners Association28-211 Desert Princess Dr., Cathedral City, CA 92234
© 2013 by Desert Princess. All rights reserved.
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.
Bill Bender PresidentJoe Heil Vice-President Ray Brown TreasurerMarilyn J. White SecretaryJohn Purdy DirectorTim Gaffney DirectorTim Dermody Director
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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 pick-up 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 [email protected]. rp_11/13-R2
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
By now the majority of you have been enjoying all of the wonderful things that our fine community has to offer. Whether you’re a golfer, a tennis player, or someone escaping from the cold weather to enjoy the desert climate, I hope you’re truly having a great time.
We recently had our opening party on November 16th. For those of you who attended, I’m sure you’ll agree it was one of the nicest events we’ve ever had at Desert Princess. I personally heard more positive comments than I have ever heard previously during the seven years I’ve lived here. Brandon O’Neill, Jim Carvajal, and John “JP” Painter put on a spread fit for Royalty.
The entertainment was fantastic as well, and even with an enlarged dance floor there was barely enough room for all of the enthusiastic guests who were “getting down” and showing us their moves. All of the Managers being present to mingle with the homeowners added a really nice touch. And please remember, as HOMEOWNERS all of you are COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERS and can attend any of these events. I strongly encourage you not to miss out on the next one, or to just come to the Club for a fantastic meal.
I’m frequently asked the question - What is happening with Condo Patio Extensions? Is this a dead issue or are we going to get another chance to vote on it? As you know, months ago when this ballot measure went out for a vote of the homeowners it failed by a narrow margin. It is my belief that the measure failed because the homeowners were asked to approve extending condo patios by 300 square feet, not the five linear feet outward that had previously been communicated to the community and which had been approved by the Board of Directors. I know that many people voted against condo patio extensions, or just didn’t vote at all, because the 300 square feet was not what they had been told and there was a fear that with such vague language there could be a multitude of patio configurations without uniformity.
As a result, I have started the process over by first meeting with Al Bushman of Las Estancias Development Company who represents the Indians who own our land. Community Manager Jessica Vela and I met with Mr. Bushman to obtain all of his concerns and then had our Legal Counsel address them. At our Executive Session Board Meeting on November 18th, your Board agreed to move forward with another homeowner vote on this very important issue. Our attorneys will prepare the ballot measure and other related information so that it is very clear and concise, and not subject to various interpretations as was the previous ballot measure.
With respect to the development of the 37 acre parcel of vacant land, Desert Princess Homes (previously called The Signature Series) anticipates starting the construction of new models very shortly, and then home production will commence sometime in January. Since there have been so many different questions regarding the new development, rather that attempting to address such here, we are in the process of setting up a Town Hall Meeting on the subject. All homeowners are welcome and encouraged to attend. The Developer will have knowledgeable staff at the meeting to give you a presentation and answer any questions you may have. Once the date of the Town Hall Meeting has been established, a notice will go out.
Well, that’s it for now. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and thoroughly enjoy the Holiday Season. Best wishes for the New Year.
BILL BENDER President, Desert Princess Board of Directors [email protected]
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COUNTRY CLUB MANAGER’S REPORT
This time of year is one of reflection, of wrapping last-minute gifts, spending time with family and friends and making resolutions for the year to come. As we complete the year, we are grateful to everyone for making Desert Princess such a wonderful place.
This year has presented all of us with challenges and opportunities. We have listened to your feedback and the many stories you have shared with us. The staff will use those thoughts to drive positive change here at Desert Princess. We recognize how lucky we are to find ourselves in your company and we want to make sure that you are proud of the Country Club you live in. We are indebted to those of you who have given of your time to make our Country Club and Community better...none of this would be possible without you.
We expect that 2014 will be a banner year for the Country Club. All of the employees are truly excited to be part of the “Magic Moments” philosophy adopted here this year and we look forward to your seeing and feeling the difference.
Sharing in the growth of this community is something I am extremely passionate about and delivering measurable results is something we are all committed to.
I have enjoyed meeting so many of you over the last four months and have learned a great deal from all of you in my short time here.
Happy Holidays and A Prosperous New Year!
BRANDON O’NEILLCountry Club [email protected]
CHANNEL 98Your DESERT PRINCESS
Community Channel
Golf Cart Requirements
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.
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 .
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FROM THE COMMUNITY MANAGER
Wishing You the Joy of Family, the Gift of Friends, and the Best of Everything in 2014
What are we supposed to find? What are the clues? How do we find those figments of our imagination and bring them to fruition? How do we design what we so imagine and make it happen so we are not so complacent and yet satisfied with the condition of our circumstances? Or what if we were able to change those circumstances for the benefit of our environment?
Earlier this year, a plan of action was proposed for the Desert Princess Grounds “Landscape” Department to address concerns by the Board of Directors and the Desert Princess Management Team and to put into action corrective measures to provide “first class common area landscape maintenance”. The Core Mission Statement was set as follows:
“The Core Mission of the Grounds Department and its Management is to produce a first class common area landscape for homeowners by adhering to a strict maintenance schedule while adopting best landscape practices. Activities that distract from this are secondary.”
Management has been working closely together for several months now on bringing a new “Landscape Maintenance” program to you. This concept was introduced to the Board a couple of months ago and has been coming together for its final stages. Although you may have already seen some changes in the way your yards have been maintained, the actual launch of our program has been set for December 2nd. This action plan is being set forth on a trial run of ninety (90) days.
Through this, management will be observing the crews while also implementing additional training programs as well. In order to be able to achieve positive results from this maintenance plan we need to, yes, a little a cliché, “change the way we think and operate”. Full attention of the Grounds Superintendent is needed
for the implementation of the Action Plan. The Association will not promulgate the Grounds Superintendent providing individualized landscape design and installation for Homeowners. Full attention to the Core Mission and Action plan is required.
What to expect: The landscape maintenance in your area will be on a three-week rotation. Management has assigned eight (8) crews consisting of two (2) groundsmen each. The crews may change from time to time but it is highly likely that you will see the same groundsmen each time your area is serviced. The regular routine maintenance will keep your landscape looking healthy, clean and attractive by mowing, raking and removing debris, as well as continuing with carrying out annual plantings and harvesting with periodic weeding and fertilizing, pathway maintenance/edging, shrub pruning and topiary or as you will read in ALC Chairperson Wilson’s article natural growth and hedging. Other job functions for protecting and improving the topsoil and plants will also be provided.
Providing individual landscape design work and installations for homeowners; requests will be directed to outside landscape companies (might be able to accommodate from time to time). Management has held a training session with several well-known landscape contractors that have committed to carrying out our design image and low water scaping goals. However, as always, each Home Improvement Application is filtered through Management and/or the ALC for review and approval. The Grounds Department will continue to oversee the capping or relocation of irrigation lines when needed.
A Quality Control check system has been implemented along with the new maintenance
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schedule for checks and balances. The new schedule can be inquired about by a simple phone call to the HOA or email request to our Lead Administrative Assistant Ginger Kretz at [email protected].
The Association has several other new projects underway varying from Patrol Services to Pool & Facilities Maintenance. Information on such projects will be provided as we move into the final stages of implementation.
It’s that time of year again and soon you will be seeing a Call for Candidates announcement coming out from “The Inspectors of Elections (TIE)”. Annual Board of Directors elections will be held at our Annual Meeting of Homeowners in February at the Desert Princess Resort Hotel formerly the
Doral Hotel. We have two (2) seats that will become available. We do not know as of yet if we have any incumbents but all will be known when the official ballots go out….More information on dates for the Candidates Forum, etc., will be provided next month.
May the magic and the wonder of the holiday season stay with you throughout the coming year…
JESSICA VELADesert Princess Community [email protected]
FOOTBALL!
Mondays & Thursdays
4 pmLeon's Bar
• Wide Screen TVs• Bar & Food Service• Buffet
CALL 760-322-1655
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SOME GOOD NEWS! DESERT PRINCESS REAL ESTATE UPDATE
At the request of our Desert Princess Homeowners Association, I am providing the following upbeat statistics and trends in the results of Condo and Villa Activity of late, especially in 2013. In the last year and a half, the Desert Princess market has transitioned from a heavy BUYERS market to a BALANCED market whereby both Sellers and Buyers achieve successful results.
The main change that has occurred is the significant improvement in the number of Sales of Condos and Villas. In the last 12 months, Condo sales have increased by 40% over the previous 12 months. Villa sales have increased by 90% over the previous 12 months. This, coupled with somewhat lower inventory levels, has dramatically reduced the Months of Supply of both the Condos and Villas.
Comparing average sale prices from 2012 to 2013, One Bedroom Condos increased $10,250 or 15.6%; Two Bedroom Condos increased $13,076 or 11.0%; and Three Bedroom Condos increased $2,162 or 1.5%. The Villas have had a slight reduction in Average Sales. Price from 2012 to 2013 decreasing $7,591 or 2.5%. This is attributed to a few foreclosures affecting the Average Sale Prices and the increased number of Sales early in 2013 of homes with asking prices established in the slower 2012 period. New listings of Villas have been listed at higher asking prices.
With the much improved Real Estate market, coupled with all of the wonderful benefits of living in beautiful Desert Princess Country Club, this season should be a vibrant and successful one for both Sellers and Buyers of properties in Desert Princess Country Club.
BILL HAMMERSLEYDesert Princess Villa Owner since 2007(760)[email protected]
The following tables contain comparative results from 2003 to 2013, year to date.
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YOUR "NEW" LENDINGLIBRARY
Come take a look at the newly reorganized Desert Princess Lending Library located at the Country Club just outside the main lobby. Homeowners Susan Romero and Renee Trenholm, both with backgrounds in library services, took on the project.
Susan spent 41 years at San Marcos High School library in Santa Barbara where she managed all aspects of library functions for the 125,000 item collection.
Renee worked for three years in the 50,000 item collection at Goleta Valley Junior High School in Santa Barbara before spending 24 years at the 3.5 million item collection at UCSB working in Access Services and ending her career as Head of both Stack Services and Copy Services units.
Boasting over 1500 items that encompass fiction, non-fiction and media. the collection has been revamped to be more user friendly. Fiction is now arranged alphabetically by author while non-fiction is shelved alphabetically by subject matter. There is even a small media collection with both DVDs and videos. Your donations of book material and media will be gladly accepted.
As always, take what you find interesting. There are bags in the basket under the table for carrying your items. Susan and Renee have agreed to drop in on a regular basis to shelve returns and donations; please place these items in the box on the table.
Enjoy your DPCC library!
SUSAN ROMERO AND RENEE TRENHOLMDesert Princess Homeowners
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December 2013 31st New Years Eve Party
January 2014 16th Jazz Night 20th Chili Cook-Off
February 2014 2nd Super Bowl Party 14th Valentines Day Dinner 15th For the Love of Food & Wine 27th Dinner & A Show
March 2014 4th Fat Tuesday - Mardi Gras 15th Winemakers Dinner
April 2014 5th Swing into Spring - Closing Party 17th Comedy Night
May 2014 5th Cinco De Mayo Celebration 26th Memorial Day BBQ
Save the Date
Desert Princess Country Club
2013 - 2014
*Events & Dates are subject to change
www.desertprincesscc.com 13
A Buffet Dinner at 5:30 pm - $16 Free Bingo at 7 pm
Dinner & Free Bingo!
Call 769-322-1655
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Opening Party 2013
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Stop by Leon'sMeet our new 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.
New Year’s Eve at Leon’s...Don’t Miss It!Details to follow in The Weekly Herald
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fromDesert Princess Country Club& Homeowners Association
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FROM THE PRO SHOP
Season greetings!
Welcome to the Country Club for the 2013-2014 season. The Golf Shop is full of great holiday gifts at terrific prices. We have a tremendous selection of name brand golf shirts with the Desert Princess logo for both ladies and gentleman. As always, for homeowners, the Golf Shop will continue to offer 20% discount on soft goods and 25% discount on hard goods, so come see all the fantastic merchandise.
Remember, Golf Members may make tee-times three days in advance starting at 6:30 am. Homeowners, Sports Package play and Renters are allowed two days in advance.
Note to Golf Members: As we get into the season (January-March) the tee times will get booked quickly, so please take advantage of your three-day advance tee time opportunity. The tee time number is 322-7779.
REMINDER: The monthly men’s event for December is the Tee it Forward event on December 7th. The Ladies event for December is the two-day Eclectic played on December 7th & 8th. The Christmas day shotgun will be a 9 am shotgun and will be played on THE OLD COURSE. The Old Course is made up of the Lagos 9, Vista 1-3, and Cielo 4-9. This is the original 18-hole design of Desert Princess.
For those interested homeowners who have unwanted golf balls visiting their condos and villas, DPCC is offering BROKEN WINDOW INSURANCE for your convenience. Please contact the Golf Shop for details and an application.
UPCOMING EVENTS
December 7 Men’s Tee it ForwardDecember 7 & 8 Ladies EclecticDecember 9 Fall Team playDecember 16 San Jacinto League play DPCC vs.
Shadow MountainDecember 17 Ladies Guest dayDecember 25 9 am Christmas Day Shotgun on
the Old Course
November 16 & 17
OVER ALL WINNER J. HEIL - 59OVERALL GROSS D. GOOD - 65
GROSS NETA Flight R. HILZ - 69 C. JONES - 60T. DAWLEY - 69 D. RODNICK J. LANG - 73M. NEWELLI. WATSON
B Flight S.SMITH - 73 D. GABRYSH - 59R ROBISON - 75 B. ROHR - 60
S. HOPWOODC Flight R.BROWN - 77 G. STEWART - 60S. VELTRI - 77 J. LUNDBERG
L. COXC. ROBINSONJ. KNOWLES
CLOSEST TO THE PINSAT. SUN.R. HILZ D. GOODJ. HEIL D. GABRYSHB. SIWIECKI R. BROWN
$100 DRAWING K. SNETHUN
Men's ClubEclectic EVENT RESULTS
Happy Holidays!
RAND VEALDirector of [email protected]
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Demo DayFor Golf EquipmentJanuary 4 9-2 Adams Golf
Ladies Trunk ShowsDecember TBAJanuary 7 Bette & Court A.J. Robinson 12-2February 11 EP Pro Kerry McBride 12-2March 11 Tail Jeanne Craig 12-2
Please NoteThe Ladies have decided to move their Presidents Cup from February 22 &23
to February 15 & 16.
LADY PUTTERS
Welcome back, everyone!
Desert Princess Lady Putters began the 2013-14 season on Wednesday, November 6. As we did last year, we’ll meet on the side patio of Leon’s at 10:15 am each Wednesday to sign in. Putting begins promptly at 10:30 am. Director of Golf Rand Veal will stage a different 18-hole layout each week that challenges and improves your putting. The membership cost for the season is $25 plus the weekly $3 tournament fee. The best putters in gross and net categories will be paid each week.
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 [email protected]) or Carol Rabush (760-322-3861 or [email protected]) for more information.
Renee Trenholm
OUTSIDE GOLF EVENTS
DATE EVENT # PLAYERS TIME COURSE
Jan 23 INDIAN HILLS 50 10:45 TT
Feb 3- QUALITY FOODS 60 12 SGMay 15
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
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GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE
The Holidays are upon us and the Golf Maintenance staff would like to wish everyone the best. So far this year out on the course, things have been pretty nice. We experienced the best overseed weather that I can remember and as a result, the grass has never looked better. Of course, we still have some work to do out there (that seems to never go away) and we’re always working on it so conditions can be excellent and consistent.
As you make your way around the course, you’re probably noticing a few areas that look a little different than the rest. Those are most likely the areas that we didn’t overseed. For the most part, they’ve stayed fairly “green” due to the poa annua coming in. Observing these areas over the past couple months has been very interesting. It’s given me an opportunity to truly see just how much poa annua we truly have.
As many of you know, poa annua is a weed that many courses, including us, have tried to get rid of. The reason it's difficult is that it’s an aggressive weed that grows pretty much anywhere, and when it goes to seed, it's very nasty. If it gets into our greens, we’d be in a world of trouble, therefore that’s why we try our best to get rid of it. In these non-overseeded areas we have recently sprayed an herbicide (Specticle) to take out the poa annua.
This could be a great tool to use, however, because of its makeup, it cannot be sprayed over the ryegrass because it would kill that too. Your next question is probably “Why don’t they make an herbicide that controls poa annua that you can use on ryegrass?” The simple answer is yes, there is one, but it is very costly to use and sometimes certain poa annua types have already become resistant to it.
The poa annua topic is something that we’ll continue to work on behind the scenes, all the while providing you the best possible conditions out on the course. Another
behind the scenes dilemma has to do with the number of water birds we have on property. As many of you know, we have a Coot Depredation Permit that allows us to take those particular birds out, but we still have the ducks, widgeons and geese. The geese have become quite a problem this past year as many have stayed and nested here, meaning that they are not migratory.
I want everyone to know that I’m not a hunter, nor do I enjoy killing birds, but we need to do this from time to time. When our threshold becomes too great, something has to be done. It’s unsanitary for anyone, such as golfers, homeowners and even employees to walk, stand or work among the filth the birds generate. We’ve tried many different tactics to keep the birds from staying around, but time and time again they return and enjoy our waters.
I’d like to be harmonious with them, but sometimes they leave piles and piles of waste everywhere. On these days, they become our enemies and not our friends. I wish there was an easy way to handle this dilemma, but unfortunately there isn’t one—yet. We will continue to monitor their numbers and ultimately do what we need to do to keep our grounds beautiful and sanitary.
Also, remember that when we get our frost days, please avoid driving on the grass. This keeps the grass in good shape and we won’t have to do extra things to help it recover.
Happy Holidays to all!
JONAS CONLANGolf Course Maintenance [email protected]
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GREENS COMMITTEE
Having enjoyed a warm first half of November, it’s time to turn our attention to the coming cold weather and a reminder about frost damage. As I have related before, how can a footprint be a killer? When it's a footprint made on a putting surface that's covered with frost. It's hard to believe that simply walking across the green, or any grass covered with frost can cause so much damage.
Although you won't see any immediate damage if you walk on frosted turf, the proof will emerge within 24 to 48 hours as the leaves die and turn brown or black. Since one foursome can leave several hundred footprints, the damage can be extensive. That's why we delay the starting times until the frost has melted. And it's also why the golfers who appreciate the quality of our putting surfaces are patient during are few frost delays.
The putting green is an extremely fragile environment that must be managed carefully and professionally. Remember that every green is a collection of millions of individual plants, each of which is a delicate living thing. Obviously Mother Nature never meant for these plants to be maintained at 1/8" height for prolonged periods. This stress makes the greens constantly vulnerable to attacks from disease, heat, drought, cold, and frost.
There are several techniques employed to reduce frost damage. We use fertilizers and herbicides to help protect the plants from stress. We raise the mower heights of our greens to provide more of a blanket about the crown of the turf. As the morning temperatures begin to rise, when we have frost, we will turn on the water in those frosted areas to attempt to knock the frost off. If you see frost, stay off the turf and that includes the fairways and rough. The coldest time of the day is that hour before and right after dawn.
We must reduce all golf course traffic by enforcing our frost delays. Please be aware that damage caused by walking or driving on frost not only affects today's play, but can affect the rest of the season as well. Remember, the golf course and grounds are a benefit to all homeowners. We should all strive to preserve the conditions we have become accustomed to.
As December arrives, the turf growing season will slow. It’s especially important to use the divot mix and repair the ball marks on our greens. Let’s all try to lessen the wear and tear on our course by only using two carts per foursome. If you have any questions or suggestions about our course, please contact any of our committee members.
FRED ELLIOTTChairman, Greens [email protected]
Do you enjoy taking photos? If so, we could use your help! Photograph commu-nity events and you may see your photos published in The Royal Page, on the Asso-ciation website and other Desert Princess publications!Please call Grace at 760-322-1907, ext. 108, if you are interested. Email your best shots to [email protected].
No guarantee of publication implied.
Calling CommunityPhotographers!
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WOMEN’S GOLF NEWS
Shaun Pulice, Senior Club Champion, competed in the 2013 Tournament of Champions sponsored by the Women's Southern California Golf Association, held early November in Newport Beach. Entries included club champions, senior, and super senior champions from women’s clubs all over Southern California. It was an 18 hole, individual stroke play tournament. Shaun placed 4th net overall. Well done Mrs. Pulice!
On Thursday, November 14th at 2 pm, the Women’s Golf Club hosted their “Welcome Back Social” for all returning and new members as well as other interested ladies. The event was an opportunity for everyone to gather together to meet the new members and catch up on all that has happened since last spring. A great time was had by all. The Club welcomed six new members for the 2013-2014 season. They are: Karen Hopwood, Karen Aoyagi, Melinda Bender, Helen Rano, Pam Patton, and Henrietta Burton.
The Par Three Eclectic, the first tournament of the season, was held on Saturday, November 16. It was a very windy day, yet all the ladies played well and enjoyed the format in spite of the gusts. The results of the Par Three Eclectic are as follows:
Flight A Flight B1st Donna Elliott 1st Karen Hopwood*2nd Marilyn White 2nd Gail Fairburn3rd Carol Clark 3rd Christine Bauer
Flight C Flight D1st Renee Thompson 1st Helen Rano*2nd Marge Topilka 2nd Wilma Snethun3rd Deb Blackmore 3rd Melinda Bender*
Flight E Flight F1st Gigi Jack 1st Pam Patton*2nd Karen Tate 2nd Jean Smith
3rd CJ Wilkinson
Flight G1st Henrietta Burlon* 2nd Rosie Mascolo
*denotes new members of the Women's Club this year
Closest to the pins: Shaun Pulice, Carlie Tronto, Deb Blackmore, Melinda Bender, Gigi Jack, Irene Murphy, and Rosie Mascolo.
$100 drawing winner: Linda FrieznerMany thanks to Tournament Chair Marilyn White who worked closely with Superintendent Jonas Conlan and Head Pro Steve Fitzharris in preparing the special format, pairings and golf course.
The first Guest Day of the season was on Tuesday, November 26. The theme for this special tournament was “Bling It On”. Desert Princess has a reputation for hosting wonderful guest days and this one was no exception.
The December Tournament is the Regulation Eclectic, a two-day tournament, scheduled for December 7th and 8th. The results will be in next month’s edition of The Royal Page. On Monday, December 9th, the Fall Team is hosting the other division teams for their respective opening matches. December 19th marks the first match for the Fall Team. Captain Gail Fairburn and Co-Captain Randie Henry are looking forward to a very strong, competitive season.
Remember to sign up for Tuesday or Saturday Play in the Pro Shop; for Tuesday, by Sunday at noon and for Saturday, by Thursday at noon.
CARLIE TRONTOPresident, Women’s Golf Club [email protected]
www.desertprincesscc.com 23
It Matters Who You Hire
#desertprincessc
www.facebook.com/DesertPrincessCC
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SPA
As we do every year, Charlie and I will be hosting our season opening mixer on December 7th from 4 to 6 pm. We expect to see one and all, so please keep that date open. 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. We'll have pickle ball and much, much more...a good time is always had by all.
It will also give you an opportunity to see some of our new upgrades to the Spa inside and out; it's always a work in progress.
As we all gear up for the Christmas season, we are always stuck on what to get for someone who has everything...well there is no better gift than a Spa Gift Certificate! They can use it when it best suits their schedule and they don’t need to exchange it for a different size or hide it in the closet until you are coming over for dinner, or worst of all, re-gift it.
It could be a one time Spa Service or a package or even one of our new memberships...it's the gift that keeps on giving for six months or even twelve months--perfect for the people you always hear saying “If only I had twenty minutes to call my own.”
MERRYL ROSESpa and Facility [email protected]
You are invited! To Our Season Opening Mixer December 7 from 4 to 6 pm
A wonderful holiday gift!
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TENNIS & ATHLETICS
Our annual Open House/Welcome Back Party for Tennis, Fitness and Spa is coming up on Saturday, December 7 from 4 to 6 pm.
Please don't miss this event; there will be plenty of activities to take part in as well as delicious offerings from our fabulous Food & Beverage Department.
Weekly tennis clinics have begun. Here is the schedule:
Tuesday’s Power Hour: 9 - 10:30 amWednesday’s Doubles Strategy: 9 - 10:30 amThursday’s Power Hour: 8:30 - 10 amSaturday’s Practice Clinic: 8:30 - 10 am
Please contact me for further information on the clinics regarding level and pricing.
Happy holidays!
CHARLIE MOOREDirector of Tennis & [email protected]
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ALC BREEZE
‘TIS THE SEASON
Where has this year gone? It’s now December and the holidays are just around the corner. Although many of our residents who arrived at their homes here in the Desert Princess in November will be returning to their families for a few weeks during the holiday season, many more are going to stay put and celebrate with friends and family in the desert. So with that said, there are a few HOA and ALC rules that are applicable and it’s better to know those before you spend an afternoon on a ladder hanging lighted icicles from your eaves. Holiday decorations, including decorative lighting, are currently permitted from December 1st through January 15th.
Condos may display holiday decorations on or around patios and front entryways. Decorative lighting may be placed or hung around windows, doors, entryways and patios as well as being on shrubbery that is immediately adjacent to a patio or entryway. No decorations or lights are permitted on lawns, trees or other common areas beyond entryways and patios. And you should think twice before you drill a hole or pound a nail into the exterior stucco of a condo because that’s a no-no.
Villas must keep their decorations and lights within the boundaries of the villa lot. Nothing is permitted on the golf course or in the Association’s common areas. Decorative lights may be placed or hung around windows, doors, entryways, patios and eaves as well as being placed on shrubbery that is immediately adjacent to a patio or entryway. No lights or decorations are permitted on lawns, trees or other yard areas.
And for those who will be off premises for the holidays, don’t forget to turn off your water at the main if you will be gone from the Desert Princess property for longer than 7 days. Enjoy the season and have safe and happy holidays.
PRUNED FOR PERFECTION
Last month’s ALC Breeze included a blurb about the necessity of pruning and trimming not only trees on
the property, but hedges and shrubs as well in order to extend their “shelf life” and keep them healthy as they mature.
Nine-year-old Ficus hedges line the privacy walls of my patio and had become overgrown and misshapen because only the new growth had been trimmed for the past year. After speaking with Arturo Figueroa and Eduardo Fuentes about the problem of bringing the hedges back to a healthy width and pruning them to stand straight again, the HOA Landscape Department appeared on my patio about mid-November and the hedges were drastically trimmed and pruned. And, yes, even though I was more than aware of what to expect, it was still shocking to see the woody interior of the hedges and the amount of green foliage that had to be cut back, but I consoled myself with the knowledge that it was for the best for the plants. It’s been about three weeks since our major “surgery” and already the hedges, which now stand straight and proud, are sprouting new growth in the woody interior. Soon they will fill in and be green and gorgeous once again. And since the HOA landscapers are now being trained and cross trained in various trimming and pruning techniques, our hedges will now be trimmed and maintained properly, extending their life by keeping them groomed correctly.
So if you see some drastic trimming of hedges on the property and around the residences, don’t panic or worry. It’s just a little “major surgery” that will rehab those hedges so they will be healthy and lovely and pruned for perfection.
STAFF APPROVAL FOR REPLACEMENT WINDOWS
The ALC met in November and agreed that replacement windows for both condos and villas alike would now be Staff Approval items as long as the windows being replaced are “like for like” windows. Original condo windows are single pane and not very energy efficient. Many condo owners want to upgrade their windows to
www.desertprincesscc.com 27
help keep their homes airtight and warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer months. The villas, especially the Classic Series and Landmark Series have aging windows as well and the Masters Series builder grade windows are not necessarily the most energy efficient either. There are a number of vendors who can provide quotes for new windows and Milgard is one of the name brands usually installed on both condos and villas. You still have to submit a completed application to the HOA and if the Staff feels comfortable with all the information and window specs you’ve provided—and in this case, more is better-- they can issue a Staff Approval so you don’t have to wait for the next monthly committee meeting for review of your application.
The ALC members, Donna Fisher, Pam Meadows, Glen Schaffer, Bob Stover, Toshie Sweeney, Roz Veltri and I, Gail Wilson, wish you all the very best of the holidays and look forward to seeing you in January when our season is in full swing.
GAIL WILSON 2013-14 ALC Chairperson [email protected]
Check out the
DESERT PRINCESS Channel at:
www.youtube.com/DesertPrincessYT
The Water Otters Club continues to meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 10 am in the Spa pool for a bit of fun and water aerobics. Bring your noodle, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, $3.00 and your sense of humor! If you have
questions, call or email me anytime.
Cathy Higgins760-778-3629
Water Otters
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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF
WATCH OUT FOR ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
The Holiday Season is upon us and it’s important you follow these Christmas Safety Tips says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna...
Maintain Your Holiday Lights. Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory.
Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets. Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires – they should not be warm to the touch. Do not leave holiday lights on unattended!
Use Only Nonflammable Decorations. All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents. If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant.
Don't Block Exits. Ensure that trees and other holiday decorations do not block an exit way. In the event of a fire, time is of the essence. A blocked entry/exit way puts you and your family at risk.
Never Put Wrapping Paper in the Fireplace. Wrapping paper in the fireplace can result in a very large fire, throwing off dangerous sparks and embers that may result in a chimney fire.
Never Leave a Burning Candle Unattended. Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell and feel like real candles.
If You Do Use Lit Candles...Make sure candles are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn. Avoid using candles in bedrooms and sleeping areas.
Never Put Lit Candles on a Tree. Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame – candles, lighters or matches.
For additional Christmas Safety tips, visit: http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/holidays/christmas-tree-fires/christmas-tree-safety-tips
Contact your local fire department for additional home safety tips and information!
FIRE CHIEF SAM [email protected]
*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.
Did you know....Your membership card is waiting in the HOA Office for you. Stop by and pick it up today!
Harriet HomeownerDesert Princess Member
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DESERT PRINCESS CRAFTERS
Thanks to everyone who contributed to our bazaar and helped us raise funds to help with our charities: Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club, Cathedral Palms Senior Center, Cathedral City Police Department, Mt. San Jacinto High School special program, Operation Safe House, and Troops in Afghanistan.
With your help, we will be able to have a nice Christmas for the seniors at Cathedral Palms Senior Center. Several residents supplied funds so that we could increase the number of Seniors we treated with Christmas gifts. Many of these Seniors have no family and it is such a treat for us to be able to deliver the gifts to them shortly before Christmas.
We have a new member helping with the sewing and he does a fantastic job. The first time he came to join our group, he finished more work in one sitting than was finished by others in many sittings. He is fantastic.
We furnish stuffed animals and other children's gifts for the police to distribute to children in their patrol area. That program goes over very well and the police do a fantastic job. They also carry stuffed animals in their squad cars, so if a child is involved in an incident, the policeman can give them a toy to help settle them down.
Many of the Seniors arrive at this location with only the clothes on their backs. Anything you may think should be thrown out, they can probably use. Please think of them when you make these changes at home. They are so grateful for everything we take over. If you have art supplies that you no longer need or use, please bring them over too as they are put to use. The material is furnished by Lou who owns the upholstery shop in Palm Springs. If our supplies become larger than we think we'll use, we take them to the Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City. It is amazing how the students there put them to use.
If you are cleaning house and/or changing decor in your unit here, the Seniors are able to use these items. Just give us a call and/or bring them to us in the Master's Lounge on Wednesdays from noon until 3:30 pm. A few years ago, we started a closet there at the site with linens, dishes, pots, pans, etc. They do run low and need items for that closet. The Social Worker gives the new people a set of each when they need them. The closet often runs quite low.
Christmas is coming and Crafter's give gifts to those who have no family and have low income. For some, that is the only Christmas they have and it is a wonderful experience to deliver the items and see the joy in their faces.
If you have questions, come join us on Wednesdays at noon until 4 pm in the Master's Lounge beside the club or call one of the members: Barbara Gibson 327-1320, Sharon Hadler 325-3263, Rosie Mascolo 288-2889, Maureen McLaughlin 322-1232, Irene Ripley 325-6839.
IRENE RIPLEYChairperson, [email protected]
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.
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SAFE & SOUND
Happy Holidays! Now that we’re back into season, the Desert Princess is full of life and activity.
We have many homeowners, tenants, and vacation renters that are primarily here for the season only; causing the community’s population to nearly triple this time of year. This increase in occupancy dramatically affects the traffic and congestion experienced at the Main Gate. Homeowner co-operation is essential in effectively managing the nearly 1,200 homeowner and visitor entries at our gates daily. As you can imagine, it can be quite challenging at times to safely and properly clear everyone through with as little delay as possible.
The Desert Princess experience, for the vast majority of residents and visitors, begins as soon as they first enter the property, and Patrol Services strives to start it off with a warm and pleasant first encounter. When a visitor arrives they are greeted at the Main Gate by the Attendant on duty. After the visitor is confirmed, they are granted access and provided directions to their destination. This process only takes a few seconds if everything is in order prior to their arrival. This is where Homeowner co-operation can be crucial.
Bear in mind that the Desert Princess only has one “manned” gate. The Landau and E. Portales Gates have no Attendant, and are utilized for transponder vehicles only. There is also no separate “Service Gate” for contractors, vendors, etc. Therefore all traffic funnels through the Main Gate at Vista Chino; which can only safely accommodate three to four vehicles in line at a time. So, what can you do to help?
The first thing is to contact Patrol Services and go over your account with the Attendant on duty. We can be reached at (760) 322-0441, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are a lot of changes that can occur during the course of a year; ensure that Patrol Services has all the correct contact information for you; this is important if an unannounced visitor arrives at the gate requesting access. Remember, we are a private community, which means only visitors you authorize are granted access. If they are not previously called-in and the Attendant does not have the means to contact you and announce your visitor, they could ultimately be denied access.
Establish your call-in password. This is how we verify that a caller announcing a visitor is in fact authorized to do so. Additionally, to that point, inform the Attendant of all persons other than you who are authorized to call-in visitors. This could be your property manager, a family member who lives with you, or possibly a caregiver, etc.
If you have friends or family members who you expect to visit frequently and don’t wish to call them in prior to every visit, advise the Attendant that you would like them on your “Permanent List”. This will give them access 30 days at a time and we would simply renew the pass when it expires for as long as they are on the Permanent List.
Also, if you have leased your unit to a long term tenant, ensure that their lease information is provided to the HOA, and instruct your new tenant to contact Patrol Services and provide their information, just as you did. The HOA will establish a Sub-Account for them at your unit.
Most importantly, call in all your visitors ahead of time. Desert Princess Patrol Services can record visitors up to one year in advance, and can receive calls 24 hours a day. We can take your visitor information at any time that’s convenient for you. Maintaining correct account information and being proactive in announcing your visitor in advance of their arrival will ensure there are no delays in granting access, allowing Patrol Services to operate efficiently and start off the Desert Princess experience the right way.
FRANK STARKEY Post Commander [email protected]
www.desertprincesscc.com 31
PATROL SERVICES COMMITTEE REPORT
Welcome back, everyone. We had a pretty quiet summer, which was nice. Now that most of our homeowners are back for the season, we'll have more eyes and ears to report suspicious activity so stay alert and report all incidents to our Patrol Services Department. I need to remind everyone to drive within the posted speed limits and obey all STOP signs. Be especially observant of all the golf carts, walkers, skaters and bicyclists on the roads within our complex. The Patrol Services Committee meets the second Wednesday each month at 2:30 pm in the HOA Conference Room. We review patrol reports and evaluate incidents of criminal activity and violations of our rules and regulations. If anyone is interested in serving on our committee, please pick up an application at the HOA office. Fill it out and turn it in at the HOA office. Our goal as a committee is to make recommendations to the Board of Directors designed to improve safety and security here at the Desert Princess. Our current members are Doug Ashbridge, Jim Gordon, Jim Miller, Jon Rock, Hutch Sakadjian and me, Bob Ripley. We can use a few more members, so please consider joining us. A last reminder is to protect your home by making sure all exterior doors and windows are locked and secure. If you leave your vehicle outside, make sure all valuables are removed or are out of sight and all doors are locked and windows are rolled up all the way. Let's not make it easy for the bad guys.
BOB RIPLEYChairman, Patrol Services [email protected]
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!
Walking at Night...
FOR YOUR SAFETY
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