Summer 2025

FROM THE BOARD

Hello fellow DAOA homeowners and residents! We successfully navigated favorably through another fiscal year! We thank all those who voted, volunteered, worked tirelessly to make these monumental tasks happen!
The Port of Quincey Security has been retained for another year to continue to help deter crimes and increase personal and property safety in DA! Help keep us all safe by your continued vigilance; See Something Say Something by calling MACC dispatch FIRST (509) 762-1160, then email our POQ Security [email protected], & Know Your Neighbor.

Summer is our “busiest season” in DA with lots of people here more often! Our biggest summer event and first commercial firework

s show, and events were a MASSIVE success! Thanks again to the grassroots fundraising group for the DA Fireworks Fund; Sonja, Stephanie and Rick, all their sponsors, donors, volunteers and staff that made this all possible this year! We hope you all consider donating & volunteering to make 2026 another epic event! The fireworks show is already approved to be in the Driving Range again this upcoming year if enough funds are raised. Please take a minute to take the survey we sent out!

Many things happening behind the scenes here too; lots of DAOA staff working hard on our grounds and pool to keep them looking fantastic, working on wrapping up the 2 lawsuits filed against DAOA and settled positively in DAOA’s favor, addressed the remediation of 2 failed septic systems with Grant County Dept of Health and our DAOA Water District staff to keep our community safe. If you have questions or concerns about your septic system status, please reach out to a septic company for an inspection. We are lucky to have Think Tank or J & S Septic locally if you don’t already have a company you use.

Food Trucks on Friday-Sunday at the turn across from the clubhouse have been a challenge to schedule as this is a new pivot to DAOA after not finding a qualified, experienced catering café manager this season. We are learning from the process and excited about the quality and variety of food offered! Come check them out!!

We thank our DAOA staff and homeowners for their efforts and support to keep Desert Aire as safe, vibrant, beautiful and engaging as it is! The Board of Directors would love to hear from you by emailing us at [email protected], attending a BOD meeting or in passing.

Your DAOA Board,
Darci Ulin, Matt Yanak, Mark Pierce, Keith Savisky, and Steve Nuce

From the GENERAL MANAGER’s Desk - James Curdy
Summer is in full swing since the July 4^th holiday with temperatures and Member activity at all-time highs at most amenities; however, yard waste this month slowed down both in load count and size after June’s busy day.
Property transactions are very high with 20 completions recently. A number of these were properties going into or coming out of Trusts.
Just a reminder that Trusts are a separate entity and function the same as a Property Sale. This is important if you have a license agreement and particularly if the property has a one-time license agreement that CANNOT be renewed.
Member cards – we still have several cards that are very old and need updated. The swimming pool has had a very busy year thus far and they have been reminding members to get them updated as needed. Also, we have resumed the original policy of 3 days’ notice to update your Registered Guest lists. This means Wednesday at 3:00 pm for the upcoming weekend.
USPS mail delivery continues to have issues, so we encourage everyone to take statements electronically via email whenever possible.
We are seeing more Short-Term Rental Conditional use permits coming through the County for homes in Desert Aire. This is a Grant County process, NOT a Desert Aire process.
FAQ/DYK-I’m a new owner…with a VRBO/short-term rental house and I want my guests to have access to the pool, what are my options?
You can use your personal member card but the guest list can only be updated 1x/week with 3 days’ notice. OR you can buy a rental house card for $200 that has a $50 annual fee, and no Registered Guest List is required.
As always please be sure your email and phone number are current with our office by calling or you can update them ONLINE through the website portal. Call or email the office if you need help.

Please BAG YOUR GARBAGE before putting it in your cans. This way it doesn’t end up all over the street and in your neighbors’ yards.
Garbage Service is available through Waste Management of Ellensburg at (800) 572-4559. Roll out service is a good option for non-full-time residents.*Please remember to store your can securely out of sight on non-dump days.
MEMBER CHARGING is an option for those on AUTOPAY! If your account has been current AND you sign up for auto pay …you can charge at both the Pool and Golf Shop by showing your Member Card.
REMINDER Dog complaints have been around since the mid 70’s and these problems are under Grant County jurisdiction, so you must include the sheriff to handle them. Reporting should be done at: 800-431-9911 or 911 if there is an emergency. Dangerous animals that are attacking people or other animals should always be reported. Our home page www.daoa.org has a link in the green banner to the County online reporting link. You can also text 509-761-3259

PARKS & GREENBELTS
The parks look good, and they have been seeing much use this summer for various family and group events.

GOLF COURSE
We have upgraded food offerings in the Proshop and then supplemented on the weekends with Food trucks. We have found it challenging to get some of them here timely, as many are aware, so we continue looking for other options going forward.
REMEMBER, you can also follow us on Facebook for information and upcoming events at: Desert Aire Owners Association and/or Desert Aire Golf Course
If you have any questions, thoughts or ideas, stop by, call or send me an email to [email protected]

Watermaster Report – Chris Guillen

A leak was discovered on Orchard Dr and while uncovering the pipe we found that an old glue joint was leaking. We have repair bands that we don’t have to turn the water off to install. While we were installing the bands the pipe cracked at the bell joint, so the water for half of Orchard needed to be shut down. We removed the cracked section of pipe and installed two repair couplings. The total time down was about 3.5 hours. Our telemetry hardware has all been changed. This is the system that runs the water system. The software has all been updated to the current version. In each well house there is a small programable logic controller that takes its orders from the main unit. This controller tells the well when to turn on or off. The controller will also tell us if there is a problem with the well. The main unit has a dialer function to alert us of any failures. This system is very important to all of us to make sure that we have water.
If you are gone for an extended period of time the Water Department can shut off you water at the meter for $5.00, this will not stop pipes from breaking but it will not flood your home. Just as a reminder, the water policy effective August 1^st 2009, states members are not to access the meter boxes in any way or they will be subject to the enforcement mechanisms of the policy.
All samples taken have been good. We are currently at 1,324 connections to the water system. The total year to date gallons produced for the overall domestic water system is 149,485,713.

POOL The fix on the north wall seal has been holding and working well. Next season we will be doing the entire seal in the same material. Members need to remember to update their cards. Photos of families that have changed including newborns or children who we can’t recognize on the picture need to be updated. There is no cost to update your cards. Members need to bring their membership cards if they plan to use the pool.

PRO SHOP NEWS – Kyle Preston, PGA Professional

It has been a busy summer! The course is looking fantastic and the golfers and enjoying every bit of it! We have had several events in the last month that went great. We brought back the Firecracker Scramble that we haven’t had for a couple years. It went awesome and we had 102 players in the event. We also had our first Junior Camp of the summer and that went awesome as well. Through my years of teaching Junior Camps at a variety of different courses, one of the biggest challenges is keeping the kids interested throughout the camp. I have noticed here that almost all the kids participating in our camps are excited to be here and thrilled to learn more about golf. We do have another one coming up August 19^th-21^st with some spots still open if you want to get your kiddo started in the great game of golf.
We also had our 1^st Annual Desert Aire Member Guest. It was an exciting finish with 3 groups (Olson/Eskildsen, E.W. Smith/Scott, and Dorsett/Foster) all tying in our 9-hole shootout. They did a playoff on hole 18 and Olson/Eskildsen won by one stroke to become the Member/Guest Champions. This was a fun event to host, and we look forward to continuing it in years to come. The participation for it was a little on the lighter side and I have heard a couple reasons that may be. It’s a new event, people may have been confused about the format, some people may not have a guest to play with, and the time of year may have been difficult. If you have any feedback that I may have missed or want to add, please call, email or stop by and let me know. I would love to watch this event grow and make it better for next year!
The Hot Desert Nights event is coming up soon on August 9^th so get your team together and get signed up for that. We also have the Horse Race on August 1^st and the Top Golf at Desert Aire on August 15^th. We hope to see you all out here soon!

Golf Course SUPERINTENDENT Report – Shawn Hocking
The summer heat is showing up in full force, but I think we are managing through it reasonably well. In a few weeks, we will be through the worst of it. I think the 4^th of July weekend went extremely well, with the tournament, 4^th of July celebration, etc. It was a little extra work, but it gave us some experience for the future, if the fireworks show happens again. We experimented with the Park parking lot curbs, and that gave us the opportunity to see how the parking curbs will influence traffic flow. As time permits, we can proceed with the light poles and placement of the remaining curbs. On the GC, we have primarily been dealing with the heat and wind. Obviously, we prepared for the holiday weekend, but general maintenance will be our focus through the next month. We do have the Apple Valley Match, the Sagebrush Seniors Golf Tournament, and the Hot August Nights weekend that we will be preparing for. Overall, it has been a very nice summer, even though battling the heat and wind will still be the challenge for the next few weeks.

Beginning in June, the NW Regional Library will be at the Desert Aire Park in Desert Aire from 2:00-3:00 p.m. on the 1^st and 3^rd Monday of the month.

Security and Safety Committee – Steve Nuce
Meets 2nd Wednesday 5:00 pm At the Club House Open to everyone. Bring your questions, complaints, and suggestions. There is no time limit and we can spend time discussing all issues. Please join the group. July 1st is the beginning of the 2025 fiscal year. The ballot measure for the extended Security program passed. To all that voted for, against, and those who didn't vote, Desert Aire benefits from this program. We have a gang issue that effects our community. We had a gang shooting in our park which resulted in a death. We have drugs being sold from one car to another. We have had car prowls and home burglaries. Speeding vehicles through out the community. The GOOD news that all of these issue have been reduced. The contacts are down and known gang members have not been showing up in DA as frequently as before. You, the home owners, are the most effective and powerful asset we have. Call MACC and report suspicious activity. Mount motion sensitive lighting and place cameras in your homes. Know your neighbors and act as a team. Reporting activities brings more law enforcement to Desert Aire. The 4th of July weekend was extremely busy. There were no major incidents! We did have two patrol officers on duty. The main issue was home owners setting off fireworks. Setting off fireworks is NOT legal in Grant County or in Desert Aire! For the most part the residents were cordial, but said they did not know they were illegal. Safety issues that are being ignored. It is unlawful for anyone younger than 16 years of age and not having a drivers license to drive a golf cart on the roads of Desert Aire. Also not allowed even if a parent is in the cart. That is a $375.00 fine. To all boat owners. It is unlawful for persons to ride in the boat that is being towed. $375.00 fine per person. Please, it is not a safe practice to do.
Firewise -If you have not signed up for a Firewise inspection please schedule one. You can call Brenda at the Fire Station at 509.932.4777. There is no charge and the appointment takes 30 minutes or less. We live in an extremely high fire risk area. Please protect your home. If you have already had your home inspected they offered a blue home address number. If you have not received one please call Brenda. They have them at the Fire Station.
Please note all new inspections do not include a blue house address number. In conclusion I would like to thank all the home owners that volunteered to all the different committees and programs. Including the property clean ups and the official ballot committee that insures our ballots are securely counted. If your group is not mentioned we do appreciate your efforts. Lets not forget the wonderful and dedicated employees that makes Desert Aire special. We need more participation on our committees. We encourage a higher attendance at the Board Meetings. Please attend and share ideas or even ask the tough questions. I am proud to be a Board member and we live in a wonderful community!

Communication Committee—Darci Ulin
The Communications Committee would like to thank all the volunteers and staff for a successful 4^th of July weekend of events! We tried to provide maps and schedules of events in bulletin boards, flyers, emails and social media this year but realize we can do even more communication layers consistently to reach the maximum of DAOA homeowners; emails, flyers posted in clubhouse and community bulletin boards, our Facebook page and on our DAOA website. The Committee encourages all Homeowners to check the member side of the DAOA website for the calendar of events and all current documents/minutes. If you have upcoming committee or club events, please forward to the office to share on the DAOA calendar. We welcome any suggestions or if would like to join the committee, please contact the office @ [email protected] and use the subject line Communications Committee. We look forward to hearing from you as to how to improve knowledge of Desert Aire events and issues! www.facebook.com/share/v/16NkFPZjpX/?mibextid=wwXIfr ******JOSH CAMERON’S 4^th OF JULY VIDEO"

Parks and Recreation Committee—Darci Ulin

The Parks & Recs Committee would like to thank their sponsors, the DA Fireworks Fundraisers; Sonja Hoven, Stephanie Almeda and Rick Long and all the many Sponsors, James Curdy our DAOA GM, our Port of Quincy Security expanded staff, our tireless staff and the MANY volunteers who helped make our 4^th and 5^th of July so successful!! We had an estimated 1,000 spectators in our DA Community Park t

hat night and guessing over 2,000 people watching from their homes, the clubhouse and all around DA area! We couldn’t be happier with all the advanced planning really paying off! No injuries or property damage reported, only lots of smiles, good times and memories made. We are already eagerly looking forward to next year so we can make Saturday the July 4^th 2026 even better! A big shout out to the Sagebrush Senior Center for the fantastic Golf Cart Parade which was bigger than ever too!! If you’d like to submit ideas for events next year, please email the office @ [email protected] and have Parks and Recs as your subject line. We will be selling more Parks & Recs Shirts and hats this weekend and ideally every weekend at the Clubhouse. Look for a table with one of us in the mornings to come get yours for $20 each. The proceeds will be going to more music and events in the park! Our next Parks & Recs Event is Saturday August 30^th noon—10:00 p.m.; FREE all ages volleyball tournament, FREE soccer tournament (we need 2 officials each to help run these events!) look for sign-up sheets coming soon via email or at DAOA office, FREE kids games/crafts, FREE MUSIC DJ Wayne is coming in the gazebo 6:30 p.m.—10:00 p.m. Food trucks will be back in the Park again; Gray’s Wings and Things, I Love Tacos, Crafty Creations with fresh lemonades, hot dogs, shaved ice and more treats!!

Golf Committee—Kyle Patrick
It's been a busy and productive year on the course, and we're excited to share some updates with you.

Thanks to a long-standing practice of collecting $0.92 from every outside round of golf played, we've been able to build up the Golf Improvement Fund (GIF) that helps us reinvest directly into the course. This past year, the GIF made a big impact - helping us to fund: Cart path paving, a refurbished beverage cart, new grass seed and bunker sand, security doors and locks for the bathrooms, sleek silver tee markers and much more! Even better news: after more than a decade at $0.92 from outside play, it has now been increased to $1.50. That means even more improvements are on the horizon - with no cost to Desert Aire property owners. Coming up next: We're planning to build out the silver tee boxes, remove the poplar trees at the ends of the driving range, and continue paving key areas to keep the course in top condition. Pretty great, Right! We appreciate your continued support and look forward to keeping Desert Aire Golf Course in great shape for everyone to enjoy!

Village Extras!!

Lots of activities are going on at Desert Aire. This new feature highlights these going-ons that are of interest to our owners.

Country Club Happenings
Wow! Can you believe it’s almost August. Where has the time gone? We have been very busy this summer. Record turnout for the Twilight Scramble with another Horse Race and Top Golf… DA Style in August. Top Golf is a fun family event. You don’t need to be a golfer you just need to be 5 years old or older. Country Club is hosting a golf travel tip to the Spokane area on August 4-7th. We will be playing Deer Park, Chewelah Golf and Country Club, Dominion Meadows Golf Club and an option for Creek at Qualchan. Looks like they will have a great turn out. Twenty- two people will be participating. Desert Aire Country Club Championship will be held on September 6^th & 7th. Remember to play at least 5 Country Club events to be eligible to win the title of Club Champion. Men must play from the Whites and Ladies from the Reds to qualify for the title. If you are a Country Club Member and were unable to play at least 5 events you are still eligible to play. You will be able to play from your declared tees and possible win net. October will be our last tournament of the year. It’s the Frostbite. A one day Two-person Co-Ed Tournament. The format will be a six pack and you must have a handicap. Find a partner and come out and have some fun.
Country Club will have 4 board vacancies in October. If you enjoy planning social events, golf tournaments and want to join our crew, please let us know at [email protected]. You don’t even have to be a golfer and we would love to have you join our team!

From the Airport Commissioners: A Big Thank You for a Fantastic Fly-In Breakfast!
What a fantastic day we had at the Annual Desert Aire Fly-In Breakfast on June 14th! The sun was shining, the skies were clear, and nearly 300 aviation enthusiasts gathered to enjoy a hearty breakfast and marvel at some truly impressive aircraft. The event was a soaring success, and we owe it all to the incredible support from our community.
A huge THANK YOU to:

· Brian and Denise Hash for generously providing their hangar as the perfect venue.
· All the local businesses and individuals who donated services and items for our raffle baskets, adding excitement to the day.
· Our dedicated volunteers who worked tirelessly to make everything run smoothly.
· Everyone who attended and showed their love for the Desert Aire Airport!

Your support keeps our airport thriving and makes events like this unforgettable. We’re already looking forward to next year’s fly-in!
Desert Aire Airport: A Hub of Activity
Beyond the Fly-In Breakfast, Desert Aire Airport (M94) has been a critical resource for our region recently. A few weeks ago, M94 served as an emergency landing site for a general aviation aircraft experiencing a windshield blowout at 16,000 feet while en route to Wenatchee. Thanks to the quick response and accessibility of our airport, the solo pilot landed safely with no further damage to the aircraft or injuries.
Additionally, M94 was designated as a refueling site for the Department of Natural Resources’ firefighting efforts northeast of Othello. Although the fire was contained before refueling was needed, and the fuel and command trucks returned to Yakima, our airport stood ready to support this critical operation. These events highlight the vital role Desert Aire Airport plays in our community and beyond.
Join Our Team: Airport Meeting Scribe Needed. The Desert Aire Airport is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented volunteer to serve as our Meeting Scribe for the monthly Airport Commissioner meetings. This role is essential in maintaining accurate records and ensuring our operations remain transparent.
What You’ll Do:
· Take clear and concise minutes during monthly meetings.
· Share draft minutes with Commissioners for review and edits.
· Ensure approved minutes are properly stored in our electronic files.
What You’ll Need:
· Basic computer and word processing skills.
· Previous experience taking meeting minutes (required).
· A passion for supporting our vibrant airport community.

If you’re ready to contribute to the heart of Desert Aire Airport, please reach out to us at [email protected] to learn more or volunteer. Let’s keep our airport soaring together!

IMPORTANT DATES: All meetings (held via Zoom, login information is available on the website member page, unless stated otherwise) and owners are encouraged to attend.

Desert Aire Board of Directors – Held the 3^rd Thursday of each month (except December) at 6:00 PM.
Architectural Committee - Meets the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of each month at 3:00 PM.(Except in November and December, when they meet only on the 2^nd Thursday).
Golf Committee – Meets the 1st Wednesday of each month at 3:00 PM.
Parks and Recreation Committee – Meets the 1^st Wednesday of each month at 5:00 PM.
Communications Committee – Meets the 2^nd Tuesday each month at 3:30 PM.
Security & Safety Committee - Meets the 2^nd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 PM
Desert Aire Airport Commissioners - Meets the 3^rd Thursday of each month at 4:00 PM.

Washington state boasts a variety of interesting facts. It's known as the "Evergreen State" due to its abundant evergreen forests. It's the birthplace of Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. It's the second-largest wine producer in the US and home to over 1,000 wineries. Additionally, Washington has the most glaciers of any state in the lower 48.