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| OHCC LIVING | MARCH 2026 | 31 The 2026 Do Dues Day event was a standout success for all clubs, but it was an especially banner year for the OH Wine Tasting Club. We welcomed 47 enthusiastic new members and celebrated 224 returning members, a testament to the club's growing popularity and vibrant community. In early February, we hosted a New Member Orientation in the Mykonos Room. The evening gave newcomers a warm introduction to the art of wine tasting, along with an opportunity to meet the Board of Directors and Group Coordinators. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with pizza, salad, dessert, and — naturally — leftover wine rounding out the evening. The Wine Club is made up of nine tasting groups, each meeting monthly in a member's home. These gatherings are intimate, social, and delicious. Members share appetizers while tasting wines selected and presented by one of their fellow group members. Hosts provide the venue along with plates and utensils, while guests bring their own wine glasses. Each tasting evening begins with a Welcome Wine, most often a sparkling selection to set the tone. Once everyone has arrived, guests help themselves to snacks and settle in for the tasting. The presenter typically features five or six wines centered around a specific region or country — think Napa Valley, Spain, or another celebrated wine destination. Tastings consist of a two-ounce pour, accompanied by insights and stories about each wine. Each member contributes a pre-paid fee to cover the cost of the wines, ensuring the evening runs smoothly. And for any wine that doesn't quite suit your palate, a discreet receptacle is always available. In addition to monthly tastings, the club hosts two club-wide events each year. This year's highlights include a Dinner and Dance in June, followed by the Annual Officer Election and Social in October — both perfect opportunities to connect, celebrate, and raise a glass together. Written by Jody McDonough, jodyzm@gmail.com, (760) 653-8198 Wine Tasting Club Inspiration Hill As we walk the trail at Inspiration Hill, we are always impressed by the varied community inspirations as expressed on the Donor Bricks. The trail begins by honoring our pioneer OHCC Founders, and continues with those who so bravely served us. There are bricks honoring family members, beloved pets, and favorite universities. What is your inspiration? The HOA continues to take orders for your own personalized bricks. Fill out an order form at the HOA office, and include a check for $75. Your inspiration brick will help line the trail to the top of the hill! I want to share some quick but important advice to help you avoid becoming a victim of a real estate scam. Some agents may appear to represent you but act in their own interest instead. They might: • Limit showings or withhold outside offers. • Convince you that "no one wants your home." • Then offer to buy it themselves at a below-market price — only to remodel and resell it for a profit. This is a bait-and-switch tactic, and unfortunately, the seller (you) ends up losing valuable equity. • Review your listing contract carefully. Make sure it requires all offers to be presented to you immediately — it's California law. • Prohibit your agent (or anyone tied to them) from buying your property. This removes conflict of interest. • Request showing feedback regularly. It keeps your agent accountable and ensures your home is being properly marketed. • Ask if your agent has any nancial connection to potential buyers or investors. Transparency matters. Your home is one of your biggest assets. You deserve an agent who is loyal, transparent, and fully focused on getting you top dollar. Let's have a quick conversation about how I market and protect my clients' best interests. I'm happy to review your situation confidentially and make sure your sale is handled safely and successfully.