HOUND EARS CLUB HOUND EARS CLUB HOUND EARS CLUB
COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER
COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER
COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 2025
Richard Morrow, President
Marie Blake, Vice President
Bob Hatley Treasurer
Kelly Propst, Secretary
Danny Young, Member at Large
April Bowers
Tom Fisher
Carolyn Green
Diane Miller
Larry Tilson
Jason White
By Joseph McGuire, CCM, CCE COO/GM
Proposed Water and Sewer Rate Increases Filed by Carolina Water Service
Carolina Water Service, Inc. of North Carolina (CWSNC), the utility provider for Hound Ears, has filed an application with the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) seeking approval for substantial rate increases affecting all service areas statewide. These increases include both water and sewer service and would be implemented over a three-year period through what is referred to as a Water and Sewer Investment Plan (WSIP).
Under the proposal, base and usage charges for most residential customers, including those within Hound Ears, would rise by more than 30% cumulatively over the plan’s duration. The rate adjustments are scheduled for review by the NCUC, which will determine whether to approve, modify, or deny the requested increases.
As part of the review process, I have submitted a formal letter of objection on behalf of the Hound Ears Club and Property Owners Community Association to both the North Carolina Utilities Commission and the Public Staff (the agency that represents consumers in these matters). The letter expresses our concerns regarding the magnitude of the proposed increases, the lack of investment specifically benefiting our local system, and the financial impact these adjustments would have on homeowners within our community.
While the Association’s objection ensures that our community’s collective position is entered into the official record, individual homeowners are also encouraged to submit their own statements or participate directly in the public review process.
Residents may file written comments electronically using the Commission’s online form at: https://www.ncuc.gov/contactus.html
In addition, the Commission has scheduled several public hearings where customers may offer testimony: Newland, NC: Monday, November 3, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Avery County Courthouse, 200 Montezuma Street, Newland, NC 28657
Remote Hearing via Webex: Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
Residents wishing to speak at the virtual hearing must register by 5:00 p.m. on December 30, 2025, using this link: https://www.ncuc.gov/hearings/remotepublicregister.html
Those who wish to watch the virtual hearing without speaking do not need to register in advance. A link to view the session will be available on the NCUC website closer to the hearing date: https://www.ncuc.gov
Written comments and public testimony play an important role in helping the Commission and the Public Staff assess the practical impact of proposed rate changes on communities such as ours.
We will continue to monitor developments in this case and share updates as the review process progresses.
By Tom O’Neil Property Services Manager
Winter Preparations
As November arrives, it’s not too late to schedule a post-season yard clean-up. These projects are an important partofpreparingyourpropertyforthewinterseason.
As colder weather approaches, Property Services is also preparing for snow and ice season. Our team works to keepthecommunitysafeandaccessiblethroughoutthewintermonths.PleaseremembertoletPropertyServices know if you would like your driveway plowed or salted after each snowstorm. This helps us schedule and managesnowremovalefficientlyandensuresyourpropertyreceivestimelyservice.
Pleasecontactussoontorequestsnowremovalservices.CallPropertyServicesat828-963-6879.
Hose Bibs
As the weather gets colder, please remember to disconnect your hose from the hose bibboritcouldfreezeandcausedamagetoyourhome.
If you are leaving for an extended time, it’s a good idea to turn off the main water line (usually located near the hot water heater) to avoid water damage in case of a burst pipe. Leaving the heat on and opening cabinet doors under sinks can also help by allowing warm air to circulate around pipes. If you’re unsure about your winterizationneeds,feelfreetoreachouttoPropertyServicesforguidance.
Garbage Pick-Up:
StartingNovember1,garbagepick-upwilloccuronlyonMondays.
Water in Dog Park & Community Gardens
ThewaterserviceintheDogPark andtheCommunityGardenshasbeenwinterizedfortheseason.Pleasebring waterforyourfurryfriendsasneededwhenusingtheDogPark.
By Wes Green Director of Security
DearResidents,
As some of you may know, earlier this year we transitioned to using Proptia for our resident managementsoftware.Proptiaisacloud-basedapp that allows us to maintain a list of residents, rental tenants, vehicles, and visitors, helping us improve how we grant and monitor access throughout the community. I’d like to take a moment to explain what we use Proptia for, what you can use it for, andhowtogetsetup.
What do we use Proptia for?
OursecuritydepartmentusesProptiaasthecentral hub for all vehicle and visitor information for residents, rental tenants, members, and guests. Residences are programmed into Proptia on the front end and then populated with your information, giving us a database of who is expected to pass through the gates at any given time. Your vehicles are tied to your name and residence in the system, which allows us to track whoisaccessingthegatesusingourheadlightfobs. Tags are also linked to the system, enabling our License Plate Readers to monitor vehicle traffic in and out. This ensures that every vehicle on the propertyisaccountedforincaseof anemergency.
Additionally, the visitor management side of Proptia allows us to know who is coming in, when they will be here, and to issue passes so they can scan in and out of the gates under the supervision of ourguards.
Proptia Updates
What can you use Proptia for?
The primary use for residents is registering visitors in advance. You can either issue a pass directly for your visitor to scan at the gate or notify our guards to issue one upon arrival. Proptia can generate a QR code that can be read at the guest access lane, contractor lane, and Lakes gate. This QR code is assigned to your guest and is valid only for the times you select. Once their visit expires, the QR code will no longeropenthegates.
Security will continue to take calls and emails regarding visitors, but we are also entering them into Proptia on your behalf. All visitors are currentlyrecordedinthesystemandlinkedtothe residentwhorequestedaccess.
Proptia also allows you to view and manage vehicles assigned to your property, ensuring that our records are accurate and facilitating easy accessforanynewvehicles.
Finally, Proptia will serve as the digital pet registry. By logging into the Proptia app on a desktop,youcanaddyourpet’sinformationanda photo. This helps us locate lost pets and assists first responders in evacuating them in case of fire orotheremergencies.
Proptia Updates, continued from previous page
By Trevor Sutton Membership Director
A little over a year after Hurricane Helene, I’m pleased to announce that Hound Ears has reached our new membership capacity of 375! When this season began, no one could have predicted how quickly our community would recover or the overwhelming interest we would see from new members. What many believed might take the better part of a decade has happened in just one year -- a milestone that demonstrates how resilient ourcommunityisandhowstrongourmembershipremainstoday.
With the Club now at capacity, we’ve once again transitioned back to a membership waitlist that’s already taking shape and growing steadily. Interest remains high, and that momentum is expected to continue into next season. As a reminder, resident applicants continue to receive priority on the waitlist, moving ahead of any non-resident applicants currently on it. If you have friends or family considering membership, now’s the perfect timetoencouragethemtoapplyandsecuretheirplaceforfutureopenings.
Questions?PleasecontactTrevorSuttonattsutton@houndears.com orcall828-963-2130.
By Peter Rucker, PGA, Director of Golf
Greetings from the Golf Shop
Winter Range Access
Whatawonderfulseasonit’sbeen!SpecialthankstoourGolf Maintenanceteamfortheirdedicationand hard work, and to our Food & Beverage staff for consistently delivering great food and service at all our events.
Aswemoveintotheoff-season,courserenovationswillcontinuewiththerebuildingof greensonholes4, 8, and 18. We’ll also be improving the tee areas on holes 5 and 6. While there won’t be regular course maintenance during play during the off-season, please skip around any areas under construction to avoid interruptingworkorendangeringstaff.
Winter Range Access
Rangeballswillremainavailablethroughoutthewinter.You’llfindthemlocatedonthesideof therange building. Please refrain from hitting from the regular teeing grounds on either side of the range. Instead, usethematsortheroughareasdirectlyinfrontof theteeinggroundstohelppreservetheturf forspring. Asalways,I’mavailablethroughouttheoff-seasonforanyassistanceyoumayneed.Wishingyouahappy, healthywinter!
Warmestregards, PeterA.Rucker
Directorof Golf
828-963-2176 prucker@houndears.com
Chipping and Pitching
Tip of the Month
A good rule of thumb when chipping or pitching is minimum airtime and maximum roll time. Get the ball in the air just enough to reach the first predictable landing area, then let it roll out to the hole. This is often best achieved with a lower-lofted club.
Chipping:
Set up with a slightly open and narrow stance, most of your weight on the front leg. Make equal-length back and through swings while maintaining that forward weight. Use your shoulders to drive the motion and keep your hands soft.
Pitching:
Similar to chipping, but with a longer swing and more wrist hinge. For higher, softer shots, reduce shaft lean and allow for an even longer swing. Continue to swing primarily with your shoulders and soft hands, maintaining weight on the front foot.
Rule of the Month
Cart Path Relief (USGA Rule 16)
When a cart path interferes with your swing or stance, you may take free relief.
Here are a few key reminders:
Relief is based on the nearest point (not the nicest point) where you can make a full stance and swing without interference. Always mark your ball’s original position before finding your nearest point of relief—this determines which side of the path applies. Measure one club length (using your longest club other than your putter) from that point, no closer to the hole. The dropped ball must stay within the relief area. The relief area must be in the general area, not closer to the hole, and provide full relief from the obstruction.
Remember: the “nearest point” might not be the most favorable spot—it could land you in a briar patch or rhododendron thicket!
By Michael Darling Director of Fitness
Stay Fit This Winter with Peloton Group Classes!
Asthevibrantfallseasonwindsdownandourregulargroupfitnessclasseswrapupattheendof October, we’re excited to announce a new way for you to stay active, connected, and motivated through the winter months!
Beginning in November, we’ll be offering Peloton group classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 8:30 a.m. intheFitnessCenter.Thesesessionswillbestreamedthroughour Peloton subscription,allowing memberstoenjoyawidevarietyof world-classworkouts—fromstrengthtrainingtoyogaandstretching —allledbytopPelotoninstructors.
Joining these sessions is a great way to keep your fitness routine on track and enjoy the camaraderie and accountabilityof agroupsetting,evenwhentheweatherturnschilly.
So grab your water bottle, bring your energy, and meet us in the Fitness Center! Let’s stay strong and healthytogetherallwinterlong.
Michael Darling FitnessDirector,HoundEarsClub
Sign up for classes on the online calendar or call the Fitness Center at 828.355.3360 or 1-855-432-1964 (opt. 8) to register.
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
8:30-9:15AM Strength Training Peloton
8:30-9:15AM
Need a massage? On the member website, go to Play - Fitness - Massage Therapy to download our list of massage therapists. Text the individual of your choice to schedule an appointment.
FRIDAY
NOV.8
6-9PM
WEDNESDAY
NOV.26
5:30-9PM
SpanishWineDinner
Enjoyadeliciousmealpairedwithexcellentfinewines. Registertojoinusandviewfullchef-curatedmenuand expertlypairedwinesontheeventcalendar.
Thanksgiving Eve
JoinusforpizzaandwingsandmoreonThanksgivingEve!Pleaseuse DiningReservationstoletusknowyoucanjoinus!
THURSDAY
NOV.27
11AM-2PM
Thanksgiving Day Feast
AdeliciousThanksgivingFeastawaits!TojoinusintheClubhouse, pleasecalltheFrontDeskat855-432-1964,option2,option1 togiveyournameandthenumberinyourparty.
Southern Sausage Balls, Yeast Rolls, Cornbread, Petite Croissants, Brown Sugar and Vanilla Butter
Assorted Muffins, Corn Chowder, Deviled Eggs, Marinated Asparagus, Fresh Fruit
Spinach & Strawberry Salad, Garden Salad, North Carolina Sweet Potato & Pecan Casserole
Fried Brussel Sprouts, Butternut Squash, Pickled Red Onion, Pumpkin Seeds, Balsamic Vinegar
Cranberry Sauce & Cranberry Orange Relish, Green Bean Casserole with Mushrooms & Tobacco Onions
Sweet Corn Pudding, Macaroni & Cheese Bar, Southern Style Dressing, Whipped Yukon Gold Potatoes
Prime Rib, au jus, Turkey Gravy, Cider Brined All-Natural Roast Turkey
Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie, Apple Pie, Blueberry Pie
Alternatively,forTo-Goorders, clickontheQRcodetotheright.
Orderafamilymeal(feeds8)for$300 ORamealfor2for$99.
AllTo-Goordersmustbesubmittedby FRIDAY,NOVEMBER14,at5p.m.
FRIDAY
DEC.12
7-9PM
HolidaySing-Along
MakeyourregularALaCartedinnerreservationsstarting at5:30pmthenjoinusafterdinnerat7pmforholiday carols.Wearyourfavorite“UglyChristmasSweater”fora littlebitoffestivefun!
SantaBrunch
SATURDAY
DEC.13
11AM-2PM
SUNDAY
DEC.14
11AM-1PM
SATURDAY
DEC.20
5:30-9PM
SUNDAY
DEC.21
11AM-2PM
Ho,Ho,Ho!Santa&Mrs.ClausarecomingtoHoundEars onSaturday,December13th!Joinusforafestivebuffetof holidaydishesthatkidsandadultswillenjoy!Inadditionto themeal,kidsareinvitedtowatchaholidaymovieandenjoy themedarts&crafts.Registerthroughtheeventcalendarto letusknowhowmanyarejoiningus!
GingerbreadHouseMaking
Alwaysafavoriteevent!Enjoyhotchocolate,finger sandwichesanddessertswhileworkingtocreateunique gingerbreadhousecreationstotakehomeandenjoy throughtheholidays!Registerthroughtheeventcalendar toletusknowhowmanyhousestoorderforyou!
HolidayPrixFixeDinner
CelebratetheseasonwithafestiveHolidayPrixFixeDinner,featuring expertlypreparedcoursescraftedwiththeflavorsofwinter.Indulgeinan eleganteveningofdeliciousfood,warmambiance,andholidaycheer. AdultsOnly.NoseparateALaCartemenuthisevening.UseDining Reservationstomakeyourreservations.
HolidayBrunch(forAdults)
Treatyourselftoalittleholidaymagic!Ourfestive HolidayBrunchismadeforgrown-upstorelax,indulge, andtoasttheseasonwithfriends.RegisterthroughDining Reservationstoreserveyourtable.
-10-
WEDNESDAY DEC.31
7PM-12AM
NewYear’sEveCelebration
RingintheNewYearwithafestiveeveningfeaturinga deliciousbuffetfromChefNickandlivedancemusicby ContinentalDivide!Registerontheeventcalendartojoinus.
Hoponthebus!
Hound Ears Winter Excursions
Registerthroughtheeventcalendar.Viewpricesand additionaldetailsonthecalendaraswell.
December 17, 5:30pm-10:30pm: Theater Excursion: A Christmas Carol at the Appalachian Theater followed by drinks & heavy hors d’oeuvres at Daniel & the Dog. Currently waitlisted. ($105, includes transportation, theater ticket and hors d’oeuvres. Cocktails at own expense)
January (TBD): Bowling in Boone: Keep an eye on the event calendar for more information as we confirm details on this excursion.
January 23, 4-8pm: Blowing Rock Winterfest: Hop on the bus to enjoy this festive Blowing Rock event. View amazing ice sculptures, shop late in your favorite stores and stop in local restaurants for festive holiday refreshments. For dinner plans, please make your own reservations. See list of events at blowingrockwinterfest.com. ($30 includes transportation to & from Blowing Rock)
February 7, 2-4pm: The Pottery Lot: Come on over to The Pottery Lot for a fun time personalizing your very own Berry Bowl. Enjoy wine and charcuterie as you create! ($70, includes class and refreshments. Does NOT include transportation.)
February 19, 4:30pm-game finale: App State Basketball: Enjoy appetizers and pre-game drinks at the McKinney Center before walking over to the game. Pick-up from Hound Ears at 4:30pm. Bus will pick-up at the McKinney Center following the game. ($60 includes pre-game refreshments, game ticket and transportation)
Watch for more excursions to come in March!
DECEMBER DECEMBER DECEMBER
Holiday Sing Along 9am: Board of Directors Mtg 5pm: Foscoe Fire Dinner 11am: Santa Brunch 11am: Gingerbread House Making 5:30pm: Holiday Prix Fixe Dinner 5:30pm: Theater Excursion 11am: Holiday Brunch for Adults 7pm: New Year’s Eve Celebration
Best Member Couple: Siegfried and Roy, Tim Miller and Andy Broce. Best Individual: Tiffany Slay. Best Employee: Braveheart, Joe McGuire. Best Staff Carved Pumpkin: Valuable Real Estate by Andy Morales
HoundEarsClub2026CommitteeApplication
PleasecompleteandreturnthisformbyDecember1st,2025. FormsmaybedeliveredtotheClubhouseFrontDesk,emailedtosvestal@houndears.com, ormailedto:StaciVestal,POBox188,BlowingRock,NC,28605
OnbehalfoftheBoardofDirectors,pleaseconsiderserviceononeofour2026HoundEarsClubcommittees.Committee membersplayavitalroleinassistingtheBoardandmanagementinenhancingtheMemberexperienceforthebetterment oftheClub.AllHoundEarsClubequityMemberswhoareingoodstandingareeligibletoserve.Newcommitteemembers willbeappointedbyJanuary1,2026.
Ifyouareinterestedinserving,pleaseindicateyourinterestinoneormoreofthecommitteeslistedbelow.Ifthereare multiplecommitteesyouwouldliketoserveon,pleaserankyourselectionsbyinterestlevel.Ifyouhavequestions regardingcommitteeserviceortheresponsibilitiesofeachcommittee,pleasecontactthecommitteechairslistedinthe committeedescriptions.TheBoardwillmakefinalcommitteeselectionsbasedoneachcommittee'sneeds.
Thankyoutoallcurrentandpastcommitteemembersfortheirmanyhoursofservice. Sincerely,
RichardMorrow,President
HoundEarsClubBoardofDirectors
Iaminterestedinbeingconsideredtoserveonthefollowingcommittees:
Pleasedetailyourinterestandqualificationstoserveonyourselectedcommittees: 2026 Committee Application, continued
2026 Hound Ears Club Committee Descriptions
Architectural Review Committee (ARC)
Chair: Diane Miller, (954) 621-8500, dianem2817@gmail.com
Vice Chair: Charlie Murray, (336) 462-2448, cvmurray65@gmail.com
This advisory committee will review all site plans and architectural building plans proposed for new construction of any residence and any proposed exterior modification to any existing residence in Hound Ears, including any ancillary structures on the lot. The committee is concerned with the architectural integrity and compatibility of the exterior appearance of the improvements, the siting of the improvements on the lot, including proper setbacks and proximity of the finished floor elevation to the crown of the road, and inclusion of appropriate landscaping.
The issuance of a Hound Ears Building Permit is in no way an approval of the qualifications of the contractor or the quality of the proposed improvement. In no event shall the committee express an opinion as to the soundness or safety of the structure or approve any construction techniques.
The approval or disapproval procedure for the above shall be based on the applicable sections of the Amended and Restated Declaration of Restrictions (the “Restrictions”) for Hound Ears Club Inc., as recorded in the Watauga County, North Carolina Records, the current Architectural Design Guidelines, as well as any supplemental regulations or procedures developed from time to time by the Board. Any decisions falling outside of these documents must be referred to by the Board.
The committee shall also have the responsibility for developing recommended procedures for monitoring and enforcing compliance with other provisions of the Restrictions, such as the utilization of the Roadrunner Committee and progressive follow-up steps to reinforce compliance. Violations of the Restrictions will be investigated by this committee and actions recommended to the Board.
By-Laws, Rules, Governance, & Member Standards Committee
Chair: Kelly Propst, (980) 521-0078, kellywpropst@gmail.com
Vice Chair: Charlie Murray, (336) 462-2448, cvmurray65@gmail.com
This advisory committee shall review and make recommendations to the Board on revisions to the By- Laws and Rules and Regulations of the Club. Revisions to the By-Laws which require membership approval shall be presented to the membership for a vote at any duly called meeting. By-Law amendments which do not require a membership vote can be approved by the Board. According to the By-Laws, the Rules and Regulations may be amended by the Board.
In addition, this advisory committee will meet as necessary to review behavior brought forth from the Club’s Management Team or from the Board of Directors. The committee, in cooperation with the COO/General Manager, will be tasked with review and investigation of concerns regarding inappropriate Member conduct. The committee will make recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding appropriate discipline and / or consequences for Members in violation of behaviors set forth in our By-Laws, as well as Rules and Regulations.
Club Dining Committee
Chair: April Bowers, (407) 920-7223, aprilbowers07@gmail.com
Vice Chair: Larry Tilson, (704) 562-4979, lktilson412@gmail.com
This advisory committee will work closely with the Clubhouse Manager, Executive Chef and COO/General Manager to make recommendations regarding dining services in all venues at which food and beverages are provided. The committee may provide feedback on recommended menu items, menu pricing, hours of operation, service standards, and other functions related to the food and beverage operation.
Club Events Committee
Chair: April Bowers, (407) 920-7223, aprilbowers07@gmail.com
Vice Chair: Kelly Propst, (980) 521-0078, kellywpropst@gmail.com
This advisory committee will work closely with the Clubhouse Manager, Executive Chef and Events Director to make recommendations specific to Member event programming, except for those events directly associated with golf tournaments. The committee may provide feedback on recommended themes, target audiences, menu items, pricing, dates, venue location, event set-up, décor, and entertainment. The committee shall also assist in promoting activities and events throughout the year to other Members to gain attendance.
Finance Committee
Chair: Peter Brennan, (980) 875-8033, pbrennan78@me.com
Vice Chair: Carolyn Green, (336) 362-9538, cgreen831@icloud.com
The Chair of the Finance Committee shall be the Treasurer of the Club. Working closely with the Chief Financial Officer, Director of Accounting, and COO/General Manager, the Finance Committee is an advisory committee that shall coordinate budget reports and recommendations from other committees and oversee the preparation of annual budgets for the operational and capital funding of the Club.
The committee may advise the Board on all matters affecting the financial well-being of the Club, plan, recommend, and supervise the Club’s fiscal policies, study and report on trends that could affect the Club, its Members, or their use thereof, and exercise responsible control over any other matters involving the Club’s overall financial interests. The committee will review profit and loss, insurance, assessments, membership fees, general cash position, delinquent accounts, and all other matters having to do with finances. In addition, the committee is responsible for recommending the Club’s Auditor. It may also assist the Board in reporting and communicating the financial status of the Club to the general membership.
Golf Events & Policy Committee
Chair: Jason White, (704) 604-9724, jwhite@datamasters.com
Vice Chair: Danny Young, (843) 455-7105, dyoung@ailsapub.com
This advisory committee serves as a communication link to the Board of Directors, COO/General Manager, and Director of Golf. The committee is charged with working with the above-mentioned individuals to assist in building and creating a golf program that appeals to the membership and meets with the Members’ desires.
Golf Greens & Grounds Committee
Chair: Danny Young, (843) 455-7105, dyoung@ailsapub.com
Vice Chair: Jason White, (704) 604-9724, jwhite@datamasters.com
This advisory committee serves as a communication link to the Board of Directors, COO/General Manager, and Golf Course Superintendent. The committee is charged with working with the above-mentioned individuals to assist in setting the standards of the golf course and landscape to ensure the quality and completive levels meet the Members’ desires.
Course and green improvements or changes involving the design and configuration will be brought to the Board by the committee.
House Infrastructure & Décor Committee
Chair: Carolyn Green, (336) 362-9538, cgreen831@icloud.com
Vice Chair: Diane Miller, (954) 621-8500, dianem2817@gmail.com
This advisory committee will work closely with the Clubhouse Manager and COO/General Manager to make recommendations regarding Club facilities including the main Clubhouse, Tee House, and Pool Facility. The committee may recommend interior and exterior improvements including paint, wall coverings, artwork, furniture, fixtures, and accessories. These improvements should be in keeping with the standards that the ARC provides for our homeowners.
The committee shall also recommend small infrastructure improvements such as the addition of equipment and amenities that promote the Membership experience. Larger projects that involve construction should be suggested for the Board to be assigned to the appropriate committee.
Membership Committee
Chair: Carolyn Green, (336) 362-9538, cgreen831@icloud.com
Vice Chair: Libba Gaither, (704) 996-4887, libbagaither@gmail.com
Working with the Membership Director, this advisory committee shall receive, screen, and confidentially process all candidates for membership, ensuring compliance with all By-Laws and Rules and Regulations of the Club. The committee will recommend to the Board the acceptance or rejection of candidates.
The committee will maintain a current roster of all Members and their categories and will encourage opportunities for new Members to become connected in the Club to enhance utilization and build friendships. The committee will provide recommendations to the Membership Director to enhance and expand membership development opportunities.
Nominating Committee
Chair: Jason White, (704) 604-9724, jwhite@datamasters.com
The Nominating Committee must not include any Member interested in election to the Board at the next annual meeting of the Membership.
The Committee is responsible for recruiting at least two candidates greater than the number of open positions for Board Director service. The Committee will interview and orient all prospective candidates for the Board of
Directors with the requirements and requisites as a potential Board Member. The Committee will then nominate a slate of candidates, which will be at least two greater than the number of expected vacancies and will assist the candidates through the election process.
The Nominating Committee will consult with the Club Board’s Executive Committee with respect to succession planning, identifying skill sets that are needed when considering expected vacancies.
Real Estate & Rental Oversight Committee
Chair: Larry Tilson, (704) 562-4979, lktilson412@gmail.com
Vice Chair: Kelly Propst, (980) 521-0078, kellywpropst@gmail.com
This advisory committee shall review the activities of the real estate brokerage sales operation to promote the effectiveness and efficiency of the operation and to ensure compliance with the legal requirements applicable to the sale, resale and rental oversight operation of Hound Ears Real Estate (HERE) under the laws of the State of North Carolina.
The committee shall review and recommend policies, rules, and procedures that will enable the COO/General Manager to monitor the activities of the real estate and rental oversight operations. All such policies, rules, and procedures shall be subject to approval by the Board.
The rental oversight program should be developed and reviewed periodically by the committee to ensure compliance with the Amended and Restated Declaration of Restrictions. The committee should work to support the Club’s real estate sales efforts by encouraging property owners to use Hound Ears when buying or selling properties within the community.
Sports Committee (Fitness/Fly Fishing/Hiking/Racquets)
Chair: Jason White, (704) 604-9724, jwhite@datamasters.com
Vice Chair: Libba Gaither, (704) 996-4887, libbagaither@gmail.com
This advisory committee shall review the adequacy and effectiveness of all Fitness, Pool, Fly Fishing, and Racquets facilities, equipment, and programing and recommend improvements to the COO/General Manager and the Board. Recommendations may also concern the use and maintenance of the facilities, rules and regulations, fees, and schedules.
The committee may also develop and suggest programming ideas for each amenity. The committee will also interface with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to ensure compliance with all state fly fishing rules and regulations.
Long-Range Planning Committee
Chair: Larry Tilson, (704) 562-4979, lktilson412@gmail.com
Vice Chair: Carolyn Green, (336) 362-9538, cgreen831@icloud.com
This advisory committee shall assist various committees in the implementation of the Hound Ears Club Long Range Plan.
The committee will be responsible for developing a recommendation to prioritize and vet deferred maintenance and aspirational capital plans. In addition, this committee will begin the process of developing a five-year plan regarding Member satisfaction and engagement, capital projects, and membership structure.
In addition to the Committee Chair, and Vice Chair, this committee will consist of Committee Chairs from Club Dining, Golf Greens and Grounds, and Finance.
Departments
Mailroom | Monday-Saturday 8am-6pm; Sunday 10am-4pm
828.963.4321 (or Main # + Option 2, then Option #1)
Golf Shop | Closed for the Season
828.963.5831 (or Main # + Option 3)
Racquet Sports Pro Shop & Tennis Courts
Pro Shop: Closed for the Season Tennis Courts: Closed for the Season 828-963-6441 (or Main # + Option 7)
Pickleball Courts | Daily, 8am - 8pm
Please make reservations online or call the Front Desk at 828963-4321 (or Main # + Opt. 2, then Opt. #1)
Fitness Center | Daily, 5am - 9pm (Main Number + Option #8)
Swimming Pool & Cascades Grill Closed for the season.
Fly Fishing | Daily, sunrise to sunset, annually except when indicated due to temperature, etc. Reservations and fly fishing credentials or day passes are required.
Property Services | Monday-Friday 7:30am - 4pm Closed Saturdays & Sundays 828.963.6879
Hound Ears Club Staff
Joseph McGuire, CCM, CCE, COO/GM jmcguire@houndears.com
Steve Morris, Chief Financial Officer smorris@houndears.com
Staci Vestal, Executive Assistant svestal@houndears.com
Mikalla Presnell, Human Resources Dir. mpresnell@houndears.com
Sheila Sheppard, Dir. of Accounting ssheppard@houndears.com
Trevor Sutton, Director of Membership tsutton@houndears.com
Katarina Sechrist, Accounting ksechrist@houndears.com
Sarah Peppel, Dir. of Communications speppel@houndears.com
Rhys Williams, Clubhouse Manager rwilliams@houndears.com
Nick Davis, Executive Chef nick@houndears.com
Sanders Fullwood, Restaurant Manager sfullwood@houndears.com
Peter Rucker, PGA, Director of Golf prucker@houndears.com
Spencer King, Head Golf Professional sking@houndears.com
Eri Latimer, PTR, PPR, Racquet Sports Dir. eri@houndears.com
Michael Darling, Director of Fitness mdarling@houndears.com
Clubhouse Dining
A La Carte Dinner* Friday-Saturday 5:30-9pm in November & December
Reservation: 828.963.2111 (or login into member website) To order Dinner To-Go, call 828-434-9612 during from 5:30pm - 8:45pm.
Tee House Dining Closed for the season
Darryl Eggers, Director of Facilities darryl@houndears.com
Tom O'Neil, Property Services Manager toneil@houndears.com
Wes Green, Director of Security wgreen@houndears.com
Angela Nuzzi, Front Office Manager anuzzi@houndears.com
Rick Pifer, Broker in Charge rick@houndears.com
Hannah Fredrick, Rental Oversight Officer hfredrick@houndears.com
Allen Storie, Golf Course Superintendent & Fly Fishing astorie@houndears.com
855-432-1964
HOUNDEARSCLUB’S
MISSION
Enrich the Mountain Experience of Members and Deepen their Sense of Community.
VISION
To be a leading destination in the High Country for connection, tranquility and recreation, distinguished by our culture, asset management, and service delivery.
HOUNDEARSCLUB’S SEVENVALUESTATEMENTS
VALUESTATEMENT1
Accessible and Fiscally Sound
The Club aims to maintain a balanced membership model that provides easy access to amenities and services, while preventing overcrowding and preserving the quality of the Member Experience.At the same time, the Club is committed to ensuring resources are availabletosustainmarket-relevantassetsandfiscallysoundoperations.
VALUESTATEMENT2
Welcoming Atmosphere and Genuine Hospitality
A welcoming atmosphere and genuine hospitality are the cornerstones of the Club’s culture – one founded on authentic and caring relationships, integrity, camaraderie, and tradition. The Club values subtle prestige, not born of ostentation, but from the strength of values and quality of connections. Emphasis is placed on creating meaningful experiences,nurturinglastingrelationships,andappealingtomultiplegenerations.
VALUESTATEMENT3
Exclusive and Inclusive
Exclusive and inclusive are not mutually exclusive.While the Club values exclusivity in its membership, amenities, and services, it also fosters a strong sense of belonging, camaraderie, and connection by embracing diverse backgrounds, experiences and interests.
VALUESTATEMENT4
Empathy and Respect
Empathy and respect are foundational to the well-being of both our members and our workforce. Empathy allows us to build meaningful connections, nurture strong relationships, and encourage collaboration. Respect shapes our interactions, communications and decision-making, ensuring a positive and supportive environment forall.
VALUESTATEMENT5
Tradition and Innovation
Tradition and innovation are equally important to the Club’s appeal and vitality. While preserving the Club’s rich history and legacy foster a sense of continuity and pride, embracing contemporary trends and evolving preferences ensures the Club’s relevance andlong-termsuccess.
VALUESTATEMENT6
Charitable & Socially Responsible
The Club is dedicated to supporting the welfare of its workforce and the local community,whilealsostrivingtoprotectandpreserveitsnaturalsurroundingsforfuture generations.
VALUESTATEMENT7
Leadership & Work Environment
The Club values servant leadership, where leaders focus on serving others rather than accumulating power or pursuing personal agendas. These leaders prioritize the growth andwell-beingofmembers,staff,andthebroadercommunity.TheClubiscommittedto: Adoptingamarket-basedcompensationmodeltoensurecompetitiveness.
Providingaworkenvironmentthatfosterspositivediscourse,drivessounddecisionmaking,enhancesproductivity,encouragescollaboration,andsupportsinnovation. Creating a safe and inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued and supported.
Upholdingprinciplesoftransparencyandaccountabilityinallactionsanddecisions.