passages - Great Northwest

HONORING
ONE OF SAPD’S
FINEST
DISPOSING OF WHAT ARE
LEAF BAGS
MR&R
RESERVES
P. 6
P. 14
Passages
P. 3
July 2016
Volume 38 No. 7
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE GREAT NORTHWEST COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION, INC.
INTRODUCING DIRECTOR GENE GUIDO
It is my privilege to announce the appointment of Mr. Gene Guido to the Board of
Directors. Gene will fill the unexpired term of
Eileen Berg. Gene has served our community in several areas during the last couple of
years, such as strategic planning. He comes
to the Board with new ideas and enthusiasm.
We look forward to his willingness to step up
and serve our community. Please welcome
him to the GNW Board of Directors.
Ida Rodkey
Director Gene Guido
BOARD
p. 2-3
My name is Gene Guido Jr. I’ve lived in the
GNW for 28 years. My two kids now have their own
careers, so they have left the nest. Now, I live with
my wife Diana.
I served in the military for seven years. For
39 years, I worked for Southern Pacific and Union
Pacific railroads as a conductor. In my retirement, I
enjoy being a member of Christopher Columbus Italian society, meaning I help out at spaghetti dinners. I
have enjoyed making friends while being a member
of Cellular on Patrol, Neighborhood Watch and Dog
Walker Watch along with friends of the Strategic
Planning Committee. I hope to learn from the Board
and contribute.
Thanks,
Gene Guido
COMMUNITY
p. 6-7
COMMUNITY TOOLSHED
New Program Offers Property Improvement
Tools to Residents at No Cost
Original Story by Dale Russell
Code Connection - March/April 2016 Issue
Development Services Department
(DSD) is proud to offer the Community Toolshed.
What is it? The Toolshed contains a
collection of hand and gas powered tools that
can be used at NO COST by residents, businesses, and community groups of San Antonio
to clean and improve their properties. They can
also be borrowed for community projects within
the city limits.
The tools available for loan include lawnmowers, leaf blowers, rakes, shovels, tree pruners,
weed eaters, and wheel-barrows.
Borrowing the tools is easy. You must fill
out a short application, a release form and make a
reservation. Tools are checked out on Friday mornings and returned on Monday mornings, within one
week in order to ensure their availability for use by
others. You will be responsible to pick up and drop
off the tools.
If you are interested in getting more information about the program , please call us at
210.207.4084 or by going to our web site at https://
www.sanantonio.gov/ces/resources/toolshed.
aspx. The Community Tool Shed is centrally located in the downtown area.
GNW NEWS
p. 10-11
• 40 Anniversary & Fourth of
July Celebration
• A-Team Triumps in Silver Creek
Greenbelt
• Improvements at Oscar
Perez Park
• Board Briefs
• O.W.L.S.: A Trip to Flatonia and
Schulenburg
• 2017 Bond Program
th
• Goodbye for Now: Director
Eileen Berg Resigns
EVENTS & RECREATION p. 4-5
• July Calendar
• Tips to Cope with the
Summer Heat
• Important Dates
• Book Club: The Melody Lingers
On
POOL SCHEDULE
BUSINESS
CLASSIFIEDS
FITNESS CORNER
p. 8
p. 8-9
p. 9
p. 13
• A Day in the Life of a GNW
Security Officer
• New Self-Help Program For
Deed Restriction Violations
• Great Northwest Library
Events
• GNWatch Collects Donations for Battered Women
and Children’s Shelter
• Employee of the Month:
Mia Stives
MONTHLY REPORTS
SAFETY & PROPERTY
p. 12
PROPERTY TIPS
p. 14
• Free Landfill Day
CLASSIFIEDS
p. 15
LODGE PARTIES
p. 16
BUSINESS
CLASSIFIEDS
p. 16
BOARD SPOTLIGHT
2 • 2016 JULY
Board
P a s s ag e s
Chairwoman of the Board
Ida Rodkey
Vice Chair
Brian Stives
Photographs taken at
Great Northwest events
and/or on GNW property
are the property of GNW
and can be used in Great
Northwest media, on our
website, Facebook, in
Passages, on marketing
materials, or for any
purpose
as
decided
exclusively by GNW.
Advertising in Passages
does
not
imply
endorsement by the Great
Northwest
Community
Improvement Association,
Inc.
Any erroneous statement
will be corrected if brought
to the attention of the
publisher. The publisher
reserves the right to
reject any advertisement
at any time. Submit
articles, photos, and other
information via email to:
editor@greatnorthwest.
org
PUBLISHER
Great Northwest
Community
Improvement Association,
Inc.
8809 Timberwilde Dr
San Antonio, TX 78250
Monday - Friday, 10 AM
- 7 PM
Office: 210.681.2983
Fax: 210.681.2986
GNW@greatnorthwest.
org
www.greatnorthwest.org
facebook.com/GNWCIA
EXECUTIVE
MANAGING EDITOR
Cynthia C. E. Gates,
CMCA ®, PCAM ®,
Community Manager
[email protected]
210.681.2983 EXT. 105
PRODUCTION
EDITOR
Ashley Frolick,
Media Specialist
Passages Editor
[email protected]
210.681.2983 EXT. 109
Directors 2015—2016
Established in 1976
Mission: To improve the quality of life of Association members,
and preserve and increase the value of Association members’ properties.
The Great Northwest
Community Improvement
Association, Inc. and
its monthly publication,
Passages, is nonpartisan
and does not endorse
candidates for political
office.
Passages is delivered by
carriers to the door of each
home in our Association
on a bi-monthly basis.
of
COMMUNITY MANAGER’S CORNER
JULY 2016 • 3
GOODBYE FOR NOW
Director Eileen Berg Resigns from Board
IDA RODKEY
Board Directors
Ericka Barrera-Mahoney
Jo Ann Fernandez
Gene Guido
Essy Lechon
Mel Stallings
BOARD SPOTLIGHT:
th
40 Anniversary & Fourth of July Celebration
Chairwoman of the Board
The Board of Directors of the Great Northwest has
regretfully accepted the resignation of Eileen Berg.
Eileen has served on the board for the past seven
years.
We are sorry to see her leave and she will certainly be missed. She accomplished so many good things
while serving the community. When it came to a party,
it was Eileen that worked to pull it all together. During
her tenure she served as the Events and Lifestyle Team
Leader, spending many long, hard hours working to make
events happen. Behind the scenes she and her husband
have contributed so much to making our community a better place to live.
We express our deepest appreciation for all her work and dedication to
the Great Northwest and wish her well in
her new endeavors .
Ida Rodkey
MEL STALLINGS
Director
Wanna have a fantastic Fourth?
Join the Great Northwest as we
celebrate our 40th anniversary
and our nation’s independence
with a parade, free catered barb-cue and swim fest.
It all begins at 10:00
o’clock at the Zachry Middle
School parking lot when we depart for the annual parade.
We will proceed along Timber Path to the GNW Lodge.
The parade will be led by the Honor Guard from Lackland
Air Force Base. Over 100 participants will be attending
in floats, classic cars, marching units and more. They will
celebrate the event along with the spectators that line the
streets to observe the patriotically dressed entourage. Of
particular note is the kazoo band that will strut their stuff
and play their rousing renditions of your favorite songs.
Upon arrival at the Lodge there will be speeches
by several dignitaries and presentation of congratulatory
proclamations as we celebrate our 40th year as a homeowner’s association.
A catered bar-b-cue lunch will be served from
12:30 to 1:00 o’clock. You must have a ticket to get
your free meal. Children can opt for a hot dog plate instead of the brisket plate.
The remainder of the afternoon can be enjoyed by relaxing
with a cooling swim in the pool. Both pools will be open
for your enjoyment.
The staff and numerous volunteers have been
planning and organizing for this event since January. Everyone involved in setting up the event hopes that you are
able to attend and have a safe Fourth of July!
GOD BLESS GNW & AMERICA!
Mel Stallings
Board Briefs
Each Board meeting takes a couple of hours as the Board considers items of business on the agenda. While
Board Briefs list decisions made by the Board, Members are encouraged to attend meetings to hear the Board as it
discusses and debates matters upon which decisions must be made.
May 19, 2016 Regular Meeting
The Board selected Allen, Stein & Durbin, P.C. as the new general and collections attorney. The Board also reviewed bids
for pool light installations, and selected H3o to install in-pool lights at both Emerald Valley and Silver Creek pools.
The Board followed CM Gates recommendation and approved closing the Association Capital Bank Accounts and move
funds to Community Association Bank.
CM Gates presented copier contract bids, and the Board approved to a 60 month lease with Knight Office Solutions.
The Board rescinded a previous motion to engage Account Services for six months, following the recommendation of CM
Gates.
June 02, 2016 Executive Meeting
The Board discussed the budget and gifts for Officer Daniel Robles’ retirement reception, and approved a $200 budget for
the reception party, and a gift of an Honorary Membership.
MR&R Reserves are Insurance for the
Association to Maintain Property Values
Cindy Gates, CMCA®, PCAM®
Community Manager
I love it when I talk with owners who ask me
a question about
an article I write for
Passages, which is
what happened after
a recent issue was published. A resident said,
“Your article says that we were able to sweep an
additional $95,000 into our reserve account from
last year. Why do we need that much money in
reserves? We’re just a little neighborhood association.”
The short answer is we need money if
a vehicle, the Lodge roof, Emerald Valley pool
plaster, etc., needs to be replaced. A little more
comprehensive answer is that our Reserve Study
is a critical component used by the Board and
management to plan for major common area
repair and replacement expenses. As the physical assets of the community age and deteriorate,
it is important to accumulate money to keep up
with the list of physical assets that need to be
repaired or replaced.
A Reserve Study is the art and science
of anticipating and preparing for major common
area repair and replacement expenses. Partially
art because we are making projections about the
future. Partially science, because the process of
listing each item in the study includes an analysis of its current condition or remaining useful
life, and repair/replacement cost of the items for
which the Association is obligated to maintain.
Reserve expenses, which we call MR&R,
or Major Repair and Replacement items are the
larger infrequent expenses that require significant
advance planning. Operating expense are those
ongoing daily, weekly or monthly expenses that
occur and reoccur throughout the year. Reserveable items must be a common area maintenance
responsibility and have a limited life. At GNW
these items must be predictable and above
$3,000. Small items are taken care of from the
operating account and budget. Unpredictable
expenses such as damage incurred from a fire or
flooding would not be paid for from reserves or
operating budgets, but rather through an insurance claim.
So earlier this year we referred to old
studies and major projects undertaken since the
last study was done in 2012 by volunteers. We
undertook a physical analysis of all reserveable
components and updated the MR&R schedule.
This schedule was sent to a Association Reserves, a national reserve study company, that
did the financial analysis. We believe this is the
best combination of components identified by
management using local prices for expense projections, and the software of a national reserve
study firm. The resulting physical analysis was
227 lines, or asset items and the financial result
is as follows.
$ 559,521 Current Reserve Balance in study
1,874,529 Fully Funded Reserve Balance
29.8% Percent Funded
Fair Position of funding, just above 30% which is considered weak, and below 70% that is considered strong
How much MR&R reserves is enough?
We often use our Reserve cash balance as a
measure, which today is healthier than it’s ever
been. But the true measure is whether the funds
are adequate for the needs of the Association.
That decision is one the Board will be reviewing,
debating, and grappling. In that analysis three
things are for sure: the Great Northwest is not
just a “little neighborhood association”, and our
annual Reserve Study update will be a vital tool
in the Board’s ability to identify funding needs
and options as it monitors a predictable, but moving target. And third an overriding goal will be to
maintain consistent contributions over the years
so that each owner pays their fair share of the
deterioration in direct proportion to the amount of
time they are owners.
Cindy
JULY CALENDAR
4 • 2016 JULY
July 4
JULY 4 / 40TH ANNIVERSARY
PARADE
10 AM
From Zachry Middle School
Through Timber Path
To GNW Lodge - 8809 Timberwilde
Celebrate July 4 and 40 years of the Great
Northwest at the GNW Annual July 4th
Parade. Pick a spot anywhere on Timber Path
between Zachry Middle School and the GNW
Lodge. With over 100 participants, we will
start the July 4th day with a bang!
40TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE
BBQ Pool Party
12:30 PM
We’re celebrating 40 years with a huge BBQ
bash. The party starts at 12 PM.
July 5
ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL
COMMITTEE MEETING
4:30 PM—5:30 PM
Olivia Theriot Room - Silver Creek
The ACC meets every other Monday to review,
approve, or disapprove any improvements on
any and all lots.
July 7
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
7 PM
Olivia Theriot Room - Silver Creek
Interested in community issues? Homeowners
may attend and observe community
discussions.
July 12
O.W.L.S. LUNCHEON
11:30 AM
Callanen Hall - Silver Creek
Join the Older, Wiser, Leisurely Seniors for
their monthly luncheon at the lodge.
July 18
ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL
COMMITTEE MEETING
4:30 PM—5:30 PM
Olivia Theriot Room - Silver Creek
The ACC meets every other Monday to review,
approve, or disapprove any improvements on
any and all lots.
July 20
BOOK CLUB
7:00 PM
Olivia Theriot Room - Silver Creek
Join us to review The Melody Lingers On by
Mary Higgins Clark. It is not required to have
read the book to attend.
July 21
REGULAR BOARD MEETING
7:00 PM—9:30 PM
Callanen Hall - Silver Creek
Want to give your input about community
issues? Come partake in community
discussions.
July 29
FAMILY DIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT
8:30 PM
Silver Creek Pool - $5 per family
It’s the last Dive-In Movie Night of the
summer! Join us as we watch Star Wars: The
Force Awakens. $5 per family.
EVERY WEEK AT THE
GREAT NORTHWEST
MONDAYS
POKER
7:00 PM—9:00 PM
Silver Creek
1st & 3rd Mondays
TUESDAYS
ZUMBA
6:00 PM—7:00 PM
Silver Creek
$5 per person
MAHJONG
6:30 PM
Silver Creek
$5 per person
WEDNESDAYS
DOMINOES
11:00 AM—1:00 PM
Emerald Valley
CHESS
6:00 PM—9:00 PM
Emerald Valley
THURSDAYS
LINE DANCING
10:00 AM—11:30 PM
Silver Creek
ZUMBA
6:00 PM—7:00 PM
Silver Creek
(Moved to Emerald Valley on April 21)
RECREATION
Tips to Cope with the
Summer Heat
TY SIMPSON
Recreational Manager
We see many swimmers throughout the summer –
many of which stay all day, every day. It is important to
follow some simple guidelines during summer play:
1. Apply sunscreen throughout the day – not just
once a day.
2. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Stay
away from sugary sodas and salty candies.
3. Many people think that Gatorade
or sports drinks substitute water
intake. This is FALSE. Sports drinks
contain high amounts of salts,
for the purpose of replenishing
the salt lost during activity.
4. Rule of thumb – Drink water
BEFORE and DURING activity.
Drink sports drinks AFTER.
[email protected]
JULY 2016 • 5
IMPORTANT DATES
• Water Aerobics & Swim Lessons: Still Taking Registrations
• Swim Lessons: 8 a.m. or 9 a.m. Monday-Thursday at Emerald Valley
• Water Aerobics: 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday at Emerald Valley
• Fall Soccer Registration: Starts Monday, July 25 and remains
open until league is full. REGISTER EARLY to ensure your spot.
Don’t hesitate!
SPECIAL REMINDER
• Don’t forget about the Independence Day Parade on Saturday, July
4th. The parade route begins at Zachry Middle School at 10:00am
and ends at Silver Creek Pool.
ADULT SWIM HOURS
• Silver Creek
Saturday & Sunday: 10 - 11 a.m.
Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 8 - 9 p.m.
• Emerald Valley
Tuesday - Friday: 10 - 11 a.m.
2016 SWIM LESSONS
Swim lessons are held in 2 week sessions. Each session is MondayThursday, and each class is 40 minutes.
• Session 3: July 11 - 21
Register by July 5
• Session 4: July 25 - August 4
Register by July 18
• Session 5: August 8 - 18
Register by August 1
Learn more by logging on to greatnorthwest.org
COMMUNITY
6 • 2016 JULY
HONORING ONE OF
SAPD’S FINEST
RENEE TOWNSEND
GNWatch / C.O.P.S. / D.W.W. Team Leader
Photo by Ashley Frolick
Photo by Bill McDonough
Top: Officer Daniel Robles, joined by his wife
and son, receives an Honorary Membership
from Chairwoman Ida Rodkey.
July brings mixed emotions to our Great
Northwest Neighborhood Watch Teams. One of
SAPD’s finest, Officer Danny Robles, will be retiring and leaving a great void in the San Antonio
Fear Free Environment (SAFFE) Officer Team at
the Prue Road Substation.
Over the years, Officer Robles has been
a wonderful neighbor, friend, and protector in our
community. He has educated our children during
McGruff Puppet Shows, provided traffic safety
during our GNW 4th of July Parades, assisted
neighbors by boarding up homes after break ins,
attended many of our neighborhood watch meetings, painted over graffiti in our neighborhood and
brought out young people to teach them to take
pride in their community, and helped us launch
our Dog Walker Watch program. We wish you all
the very best on your retirement, Officer Robles;
you will be greatly missed!
Last, but not least, if you would like to host
a National Night Out party in your neighborhood
on October 4th, please give me a call. Registration is underway right now. What better way to get
to know your neighbors than to turn on the porch
light, break out the lawn chairs, and visit with one
another.
Our Teams want to remind everyone to
have a safe, enjoyable summer. If you see something, say something. Watch out for yourself and
your neighbors!
Stay safe, my friends!
For more information on the
Great Northwest Watch,
Cellular On Patrol or Dog
Walker Watch, contact
our Team Leader, Renee
Townsend, at (210)
264-4259 or [email protected]
Renee Townsend | [email protected]
Bottom: Officer Robles talks to two residents
at the GNWatch Retirement Potluck on June
6, 2016.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Host a party for the
33rd Annual National Night Out
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Contact Renee Townsend for more info:
[email protected] | (210) 264-4259
COMMUNITY
JULY 2016 • 7
A-Team Triumphs in Silver
Creek Greenbelt
Connie Stallings
A-Team Leader
A Trip to Flatonia and
Schulenburg
JANET ANDERSON
O.W.L.S. Communications Officer
Photos by Connie Stallings
After repeated cancellations due to heavy rains,
15 dedicated A-Team members gathered on Saturday,
June 18th to clean-up the greenbelt behind the Silver
Creek Lodge.
Several of our A-Team members have been
working on this project for months. On Saturday, our
larger group manned weed eaters, loppers, chainsaws
and rakes, and we hauled several trailer loads to the
brush pile. Working as a well-oiled machine for six hours
in the brutal Texas sun, the team made a tremendous
difference.
As you walk the greenbelt, there a sense of
peace, as if you are walking in a forest; it is a place
where you can find a connection with Mother Nature.
The Silver Creek greenbelt is a work in progress, and we
all have the same vision. One day there will be a walking
path from Timberwilde to Tezel Road.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to
the 15 A-Team members who came out and made this a
very successful event. Most of all, I would like to thank
GNW Lifeguard Sam Womack for
cooking our lunch during his break!
As we continue to improve
our community, please watch for
future opportunities to help us
with greenbelt clean-ups.
For more information about
the A-Team, contact Connie
Stallings, 210-416-8595(cell),
210-684-2139 or [email protected].
Connie Stallings | [email protected]
On June 21, the OWLS took I-10 all the way up
to Flatonia, TX to visit the Arnim Museum, where the
group found out how folks lived in the 1800’s to early
1900’s. They also visited the Railroad Museum and learned how the town
was developed by F.W. Flato in 1865 (hence the town name of Flatonia).
Afterwards, the OWLS ate dinner at Robert’s Steak House and spend the
night at the Flatonia Best Western hotel.
The next morning, the group drove 12 miles to Schulenburg for
visit the famous Painted Churches in a tour given by the Schulenburg
Chamber of Commerce. They returned to the Great Northwest Lodge
later that afternoon. All were happy and tired, but glad they had taken the
time to be together.
July 4th
In July, the OWLS are joining in the annual July 4th parade. The
OWLS KAZOO BAND and float will take off from Zachry Middle School at
10 a.m. The group will perform the National Anthem.
There will be a practice for the KAZOO BAND on July 4th at 9
a.m. at the Lodge.
The next luncheon will be on July 12th. We’ll have hot dogs with
all the trimmings, paid for by the OWLS. Members, please bring a covered dish to share.
For more information about joining the OWLS, call 6812983.
Book Club: The
Melody Lingers On
JOANN SANDERSON
Book Club Co-Chairman
On Wednesday, July 20, at 7:00 p.m. the
book club will meet at the Silver Creek Lodge to
discuss The Melody Lingers On by international
best-selling author, Mary Higgins Clark. The title
comes from the lyrics of an Irving Berlin tune:
“The song is ended
But the melody lingers on.
You and the song are gone
But the melody lingers on.”
This song plays on a music box which
wealthy financier Parker Bennet gave his wife as
a birthday present.
The “notorious scoundrel” Parker disappears shortly after his financial scam, resulting in
unsuspecting clients loosing billions of dollars, is
discovered. His stranded sailboat is found in the
Caribbean, but no body is located. FBI agents
initiate a hunt to determine if he fled or if he is
dead. Lane Harmon, an assistant interior decorator assigned to relocate some furnishings from
his mansion, becomes involved in the investigation when Parker’s son, Eric, shows a romantic
interest in her.
Investigators follow Parker’s trail by
questioning people who may have been involved
in the financial scheme and/or who may know his
whereabouts. Two characters emerge as leading
suspects: the son, Eric, and a distraught victim of
Parker’s financial scheme.
However, others may have been conspiring to aid and abet Parker: other victims of financial loss, members of his family, his household
staff, business associates, and a former mistress.
A series of questions emerging from the
investigation sustains the suspense. Was Eric’s
romantic interest in Lane sincere or does he have
devious motives for his courtship? What dark
secrets revealed from Eric’s past put Lane and
her daughter Katie in danger? Who collaborated
in the extortion and/or the conspiracy to hide
Parker’s whereabouts? Was the money located?
Are innocent suspects exonerated? Was the
music box just a sentimental gift, the song just a
haunting, romantic tune? Or do the lyrics foreshadow love that would be compromised by the
tragic consequences of greed and corruption?
Was Parker found? Was justice served?
And there is the mystery presented at
book club meetings--how do the members rate
this reading experience? Will its melody linger
on?
August Selection
The Texicans
by Nina Vida
Facilitator—JoAnn Sanderson
Members will vote for book selections for
future meetings at this July meeting.
We welcome you to join our group on the
third Wednesday of the month. You do not need
to inform us should you choose to participate. If
you want more information, please email:
[email protected] or [email protected]
July
8 • 2016 JULY
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
FITNESS CORNER • BUSINESS CLASSIFIEDS
Thu
Fri
H igh S teppers
Sat
Thursdays 10 a.m. ► Silver Creek
Lodge ► $2 per class
FITNESS CORNER
Tue
Wed
Dance, dance, dance! That’s what
we do!
Every Thursday morning at 10
a.m., the High Steppers engage
in a series of 12 Line Dances for
exercise and enjoyment! Dances
may include may include the tango,
mambo, rhumba, waltz, or cumbia!
Instructors are Kum Cha Jahn and
Janet Anderson.
SA T umble T ots
Mondays 11 a.m. & Wednesdays 6
p.m. ► Silver Creek Lodge ► $10
Pre-registration
Join instructor Krystal Mora in this fun
filled class is designed to build a foundation for developmental and creative
movement while learning simple tumbling terms and techniques. Your child
must be able to particiapte in the class
without a caregiver, with one instructor, and a small group of children of the
same age (3 to 5 years).
210-326-3234
Fun in the Sun Snacks
August
Mon
umble
.
$2 Hot Dog! ‘n’ Trimmings
$3.75 COMBO: Hot Dog! +
Chips & Soda
$4 Cranberry & Pistachio
Chicken Salad Sandwich
$5 COMBO: Cranberry & Pistachio Chicken Salad Sandwich + Chips & Soda
Dance. Move.
T
Off the Deep End
Dogs & Sandwiches
Sun
JULY 2016 • 9
Thu
Fri
$1.50 Icy Jumbo Sour Pickles
$1.50
Twix
M&M’s Peanut
$1 All other candy
$1 Chips
Butter L♥vers Popcorn
Poolside Drinks
$1 Sodas ♦ Water ♦ Gatorade
Polar Bear Ice Cream
$1.50 Nestle Drum Sticks
Snickers Bar
$1.50 ICEE Tubes
F it C amp
with T abitha
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:15 p.m.
► Silver Creek Lodge
► $5 per class
This 45 minute class uses body weight
as the resistance with HIIT and Tabata
style circuit training. Tabitha is a nationally certified personal trainer with years
of experience helping both men and
woman reach their fitness goals. All fitness levels are welcome.
210-790-9727
Tuesday & Thursday 6:15 p.m.
► Silver Creek Lodge ► $5 per class
(Moved to Emerald Valley on July 21)
► No prior experience needed.
► No membership fees.
► No contracts or paperwork!
Be ready to SWEAT and BURN the calories and fat. Wear comfy clothes and
closed shoes to class.
D on ’ t
think about it , just do it !
Lance Meyer Photography
Capturing Life’s Special Moments
We provide Photography, EdiƟng, and Print
Services for all your needs: Weddings, Portraits,
Headshots, Senior & Model Shoots, Sports,
Maternity, Infant, ParƟes, & Specialty Events.
Call us for scheduling, quesƟons about addiƟonal
services, and pricing.
(210) 264-5766 / 685-3086
www.lancemeyerphotography.com
AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING
210-325-7884
David B. Hiller
Owner
Email: [email protected]
www.dcacservice.com
Install All Major Brands
Service & Maintenance
Licensed & Bonded
TACLB16003C
GNW NEWS
10 • 2016 JULY
Improvements
at
G reat N orthwest L ibrary
E vents
Oscar Perez Memorial Park Ribbon
Cutting
STORY COURTESY OF CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 STAFF
July 1 | Hispanic Genealogy | 10 am
Dinosaur George | 2 pm & 4 pm
Teen Gaming | 2 pm
July 10 | San Antonio Heartwarmers: Blankets for Critters | 2 pm
July 11 | Teen Anime Night | 6:30 pm
No Experience Needed Art | 2 pm
Computer Tutoring | 6 pm
July 14 | Great Northwest Book & Club Group | 1 pm
M onth : J une 2016
Every month, we spotlight an employee
who has gone above and beyond the call of
duty. This month, we chose Cafe Manager
Mia Stives. Mia has done an amazing job of
making sure the cafe is run smoothly.
A. I manage the Barefoot Café in the front,
handle the cashier, and check for member
cards before people come into the pool.
A. This is my second summer here.
Q.What do you like most about your
job?
Teen Writer’s Guild | 6:30 pm
Computer Tutoring | 6 pm
July 27 | Super Smash Bros Tournament for Teens | 2 pm
July 29 | Finding Female Ancestors
GNWatch Collects Donations for
Battered Women and Children’s
Shelter
Q. Congratulations on being selected as
Employee of the month. Tell us what you
do at the Great Northwest.
July 18 | Yummy & Creative | 2-4 pm
July 25 | No Experience Needed Art | 2 pm
Councilman Ray Lopez, City Officials and residents celebrated the
completion of improvements for Oscar Perez Memorial Park. Improvements
at the Park included an 8ft new concrete walking trail over the existing trail
to provide a smooth surface for joggers, walkers, and parents with strollers.
Additional improvements included a new concrete gathering area with associated site furniture. The budgeted amount for these improvements was
$350,000 funded by the City’s 2012-2017 Bond Program.
“I am excited about the improvements that are occurring in City
parks within District 6,” stated Councilman Ray Lopez, District 6. “This is
one more project I’m pleased to be able to deliver to the area. The Oscar
Perez Memorial Park will allow families to spend time together thus building
a stronger neighborhood.”
of the
Q. How long have you been working at
the pools?
July 23 | Essential Oils: 101 Back to School | 1 pm
Great Northwest residents Aubrey and Teresa Johnson and Connie Stallings, help cut the ribbon at Oscar Perez Park alongside Councilman Ray
Lopez and District 6 staff.
E mployee
JULY 2016 • 11
July 15 | Preserving Family Treasures | 10 am
July 20 | Teen Gaming | 12:15 pm
Photo Courtesy of District 6
GNW NEWS
A. I like working with people and being able to talk to residents.
Q. What do you to do in the future and how do you think this job will help
you get there?
A. I am graduating next year in marketing, so I am hoping to get a position at a
theme-park or a hotel. Being able to work with people is important for that field. I
plan to work with people in the same, relaxed environment.
The GNWatch Team held a successful donation drive for
the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter from May 5 through
June 17. With the generous donations from the community, GNWatch was able to collect more than 100 needed items. Thanks
to all who donated.
Family Violence Prevention Services
DURING THE WEEK
ABC Club | Sundays-Tuesdays | 10:15 a
Kids Time | Sundays | Varying Times
Senior Hula Dance Class | Saturdays | 12:30 pm
STEM Challenge | Tuesdays | Varying Times
2017 Bond Program: District Residents Needed for Bond Committees
Dear Constituents and Neighbors,
Our office has been compiling a list of opportunities for major roadway, drainage, parks, facilities, and other possible projects throughout District 6 for the 2017-2022 Bond Program. The bond is scheduled to go before
the voters in May 2017. We have taken your suggestions and are obtaining
cost estimates for all project improvements. Once this process is completed
the city manager’s office will be reviewing and preparing for full council approval in August 2016. Towards the end of this summer we will be looking
for District 6 folks to be members on the different public Bond Committees.
The committees will meet in the fall to make recommendations back to
council for final approval. If you are interested in being on a Bond Committee please call my office at (210) 207-3749 for more information.
Sincerely,
Ray Lopez
The Battered Women and Children’s Shelter is a part of
the Family Violence Prevention Service, Inc. Their mission is to
break the cycle of violence and to strengthen families by providing the necessary tools for self-sufficiency through delivery
of emergency shelter, transitional housing, education, effective
parenting education, and specialized intervention with youth and
the elderly. Established in 1977, Family Violence Prevention
Services served over 8,000 victims of domestic violence – primarily women and children – in 2015.
Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or
maintain power and control over another intimate partner. It has
devastating effects on those abused, as well as family members,
friends, coworkers and our community as a whole. Nationally, 1
out of 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime.
In Texas, it is more than 1 out of 3 – nearly 38% of women.
Research consistently indicates that less than one-third of all domestic violence incidents are ever reported to law enforcement.
FVPS provides a comprehensive range of services that
foster long-term stability and freedom from violence. Intervention with children is a priority, in order to heal families and stop
the intergenerational cycle of violence. Victims stay in abusive
relationships for a number of reasons: fear; lack of awareness of
what constitutes abuse; poverty (lack of housing options, lack of
transportation, inability to afford legal services); and barriers associated with poor mental and physical health. FVPS addresses
all these issues.
If you were unable to donate during the drive, you can
still contribute directly to the Battered Women and Children’s
Shelter. For more information, call (210) 733-8810.
12 • 2016 JULY
MONTHLY SECURITY ACTIVITY REPORT
Activity from June 1, 2016 —June 31, 2016
Below is the list of calls/responses the Security Department made during
June 2016. Abbreviations of sub-divisions are as follows: Silver Creek
(S/C); Timberwilde (T/W); Ridge Creek (R/C); Village Northwest (VNW);
Commons (C); and Emerald Valley (EV).
SC
TW
RC
VNW
C
SCC
EV
TOTAL
Alarms
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Animal Complaints
6
0
3
1
0
0
1
11
Assaults
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Assist
Public
20
1
4
4
1
2
11
43
Burglary Res/
Bldg
0
1
1
0
0
0
1
3
Burglary Vehicle
2
0
0
0
0
2
1
5
Criminal Mischief
4
0
0
0
0
0
1
5
Criminal Trespass
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Disturbances
7
0
4
1
0
1
6
19
Lost/Found
Property
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
Public
Intoxication
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Harassment Threats
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Salesman/
Soliciting
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
2
Suspicious
Activity
4
0
1
0
0
1
1
7
Suspicious
Pers./Veh.
13
0
3
3
0
1
5
25
Thefts
1
0
0
1
1
0
2
5
Traffic
Complaints
4
0
1
0
2
0
0
7
TOTALS
65
2
18
10
4
7
37
143
ACC Stats
All exterior construction, additions, changes or alterations must be approved by an
“Architectural Control Committee,” as per section 5A.2-5A.9 of the deed restrictions.
May 2016
Cliff Walk: Storage shed
Ridge Oak: New roof, paint home Ridge Arbor: Screen doors
Timber Cross: New windows, new siding
Timberwilde: Solar panels
Timberhurst: New fence, paint home
Timber Place: Covered patio
Encino Village: New roof
SAFETY & PROPERTY
SECURITY RESIDENTIAL SERVICES REPORT
Activity from June 1, 2016 —June 31, 2016
Valley Hill: Covered patio
Timber Cross: New privacy fence
Timber Lodge: Storage shed
Timberwick: New roof
Timber Hunt: New roof
Ridge Mill: New metal roof
Village Park: New roof, solar panels
Shady Green: Storage shed
For more information pick up a copy of the GNW deed restrictions and the exterior
design guidelines at the GNW Lodge or call DRACO at 210.681.2983 ext. 111.
Below is the list of responses the security department made when assisting the public during June 2016. Abbreviations of sub-divisions are as
follows: Silver Creek (S/C); Timberwilde (T/W); Ridge Creek (R/C); Village Northwest (VNW); Commons (C); Stage Coach Crossing (SCC) and
Emerald Valley (EV).
SC
TW
RC
VNW
C
SCC
EV
TOTAL
Alarms
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Facility
Check
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
3
Lost/
Found
Animals
4
0
1
0
0
0
0
5
Jump
Start
Battery
1
0
0
0
0
0
2
3
Home/
Veh.
Lockouts
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Open
Doors
8
1
1
2
0
2
4
18
Vehicle
Lights Left
On
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Welfare
Checks
1
0
0
2
0
0
1
4
Out-ofTown
369
0
36
19
0
14
51
489
Special
Watch
24
0
0
0
0
10
12
46
TOTALS
409
1
38
23
0
26
73
570
DEED RESTRICTION
Activity from May 5, 2016 —June 2, 2016
Below is the list of calls/complaints to the Deed Restriction Department
made during May 5, 2016 - June 6, 2016. Calls per day: 8-15. Correction Rate: 93% Abbreviations of sub-divisions are as follows: Silver Creek
(SC); Timberwilde (TW); Ridge Creek (RC); Sage Coach Crossing (SCC);
Commons (C); Village Northwest (VNW); and Emerald Valley (EV).
Complaint
SC
TW
RC
SCC
C
VNW
EV
TOTAL
Nuisance
41
19
41
13
16
19
71
220
Inoperable
Vehicle
6
0
3
1
0
0
2
12
Basketball
Hoop
8
2
5
0
1
0
7
23
Fence/
Garage
Door
6
0
2
1
5
2
10
26
Overgrown
Grass
136
41
115
47
51
63
201
654
Boats/
Trailers
3
1
5
0
1
3
6
19
TOTALS
200
63
171
62
74
87
297
954
A Day
JULY 2016 • 13
in the
ROGER BURTON
Life
of a
GNW Security Officer
Security Chief
A full-time, Great Northwest Security Officer usually
works 12 hour shifts four days
a week.
In the example of a midnight shift, the officer
reports for duty and immediately contacts the
day shift officer. He gets a briefing on all passon tasks and activities which occurred during the
previous shift. He checks the bulletin board for
any inter-office memos. and then checks the duty
schedule for any Out-of-Town and Special Watch
requests which require attention during his shift.
He takes over all equipment necessary to complete his duties (cell phone/radio, vehicle keys,
flashlight and etc.), then checks the vehicle for
mechanical problems, damage and cleanliness.
Afterwards, picks up any mail which may need
delivering. Finally, he reviews any activities which
require any of the facilities to be opened. This is
just the beginning of his shift.
At the end of the business day, all exterior
and interior doors and windows of the Lodge are
secured. All interior lights and turned off, while
all exterior lights are turned on. The officer ensures the security camera monitors are properly
set and recording. Once the Lodge is secured,
he activates the building alarm.
During the summer months when the
swimming pools are open, the officer also collects all monies from the pool supervisor. Money
bags are taken to the Lodge where they are
secured.
The officer then turns on all security lights, patio
lights and courtyard lights at the Emerald Valley
pool. Once the swimming pools are closed, he
checks secures all the facilities and activates the
alarms.
During the evening, he checks any person using
the courts for their membership cards. Any per-
son without a card,
or with an outdated
membership card, is
asked to leave. Both
the Emerald Valley
and Ridge Creek
parks are examined
for any damage or
graffiti and closed at
dusk. The basketball
courts, tennis courts,
volleyball courts
are also checked
for damage at their
respective closing
times. After checking the soccer fields,
the officer locks the
gates and turns off
Photo by Ashley Frolick
the lights. The officer continues makSecurity Officer Ruben Garcia answers a call about a fire on June 23, just one of the many
ing periodic checks
calls he will answer on his 12 hour shift.
of all Association
facilities during his
officer with violations concerning vehicles, RV’s,
shift.
Travel Trailers and people parking on the grass.
Now remember, during all his tasks, the
This brings us to the end of our shift.
officer is also required to take calls from resi
Before returning to the office for shift
dents, get all pertinent information of the call, and
change, the officer refuels the vehicle if needed.
respond, if necessary. Reports are completed
He returns to his station to be relieved and brief
for all calls received. Most calls that we respond
the oncoming duty officer of all the activities durto are for assisting the public in some way, such
ing his shift.
as taking reports for lost and found pets, helping
As you can see, GNW security officers
with lockouts, and welfare and facility checks.
keep quite busy during their shift. On average,
We also contact the residents when we notice
they receive as many as 3-6 calls per shift, all
their garage door and vehicle doors open.
which require responses and reports. Of course
Other calls we receive are for disturbancthere is the occasional shift that can be very
es, suspicious activities, and suspicious persons
boring. Please feel free to call when you feel the
and vehicles. We respond to calls for burglary
need to report a crime.
of homes and vehicles and contact SAPD when
necessary. We also assist the Deed Restriction
The New Self-Help Program for
Deed Restriction Violations
JOSE MORLETT
Deed Restriction and Architectural Control Officer
We understand that no one likes to get a violation
notice, but unfortunately, there are times it has to be done to
maintain the property.
If you’re not sure what the rules and regulations are,
please refer to the booklet you received when you moved in,
or pick one up from the Lodge.
The first violation notice is a warning. If the violation
isn’t solved after the first warning, one of three letters will be
sent out with fines for unresolved violations.
To help prevent paying a violation fine, The GNW has
started a new self-help program to allow residents to either
fix or correct the violation on their own or pick one of three
vendors who agree to help the GNW
residents with the violations. By choosing one of three vendors, all three vendors agreed to give a 15% discount to
the GNW resident. All three vendors will be on our new deed
restriction notices.
For further information, please contact the deed restriction officer at (210) 681-2983 or [email protected].
210.681.2983 | [email protected]
PROPERTY TIPS
14 • 2016 JULY
Properly Disposing of
Leaf Bags
FREE LANDFILL DAY:
Drop unwanted brush, bulky waste, and household hazardous items
The City of San Antonio’s Solid Waste Management Department has a
announced a Free Landfill Day on Saturday, July 9. Take advantage of cleaning
out your unwanted brush, bulky waste, and household hazardous items, and help
keep the Great Northwest clean in the process.
You can drop off your items from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at participating locations. Only San Antonio residential Solid Waste Rate payers may participate.
Requirements are:
• Must be a City of San Antonio solid waste fee rate payer
• Bring a valid picture ID
• Bring a copy of your most recent CPS Energy Statement showing payment
of City Services for Solid Waste Fee
• Cover your loads with a tarp (by law, City Ordinance #722272)
• NO roofing materials, sheet rock, dirt, brick, lumber or construction materials will be acceptedNO industrial, commercial or construction waste will be
accepted
Forget all those idealistic images of playing
in autumn colored leaves. Leaf bags on the curb can
become an eyesore and a nuisance for the community.
An observant person may be wondering why all
this talk about leaf bags in mid-June, when the scorching sun is already leaving a trail of dying grass in its
wake. Surprisingly, leaf bags continue to be a problem
for the GNW Deed Restriction Violation team.
Let’s start off with the basics. Deed Restraction 6.5 (e) states: “No item of any kind will be left in
view from the street unless it is decorative in nature or
decorative landscaping.” Some examples of items not
allowed are: firewood, furniture, car parts, 55 gallon
barrels, BBQ Grills, tree limbs, and, of course, the titular leaf bag.
When leaf bags are left out in loose bags,
animals can rip it open and cause a huge mess. It may
also become a mushy issue if it rains on your bags.
Your neighbors may not appreciate the leftover eyesore. Thankfully, the City of San Antonio can help you
leave your leaf bag woes behind.
Residential solid waste customers may request
two free of charge collections for leaves per fiscal year.
Use them wisely. Additional collections within the same
fiscal year may be requested but are subject to a fee.
Note that the City will only pick up leaves
placed in paper bags or cardboard boxes and must
meet these specifications:
Paper Bags
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
total material not to exceed eight (8) cubic yards
not to exceed fifty (50) bags
individual bag must not weigh more than forty
(40) pounds
must be of two-ply Kraft (lawn and leaf paper
bags)
must have a wet strength of forty (40) pounds
must be securely closed
must be resistant to breakage when lifted
Lawn and leaf paper bags can be purchased
from various homeimprovement, grocery, and department stores.
Participating locations are:
CLASSIFIEDS
______________________________________
210-521-9111.
PERFORMING ARTS
______________________________________
VILLARREAL LAWN & HANDYMAN
Lawn & Handyman Services. Call Mike
for free estimate. 210-717-1665
GREATER SA ACADEMY OF BALLET
Free trial class! Dance classes ages 3
and up. Greatersanantonioacademyofballet.com. For more info call 210-5161617
______________________________________
•
•
•
•
•
•
Appliances
Bagged litter (only at landfills)
Brush
Carpet
Fencing Material
Furniture
LOCAL SERVICES
______________________________________
MOBILE COMPUTER SOLUTIONS
For all your computer needs. Windows
only! Onsite repair. No need to travel.
Call today! 210-549-7160.
MAC / iPHONE / iPAD HELP
Training, upgrades, networking, troubleshooting. 210-273-5927 www.Macanswers.com
AMIGOS AIR CONDITIONING
Reasonable Pricing, same day service,
locally based veteran owned, at rating w/
Better Business Bureau. “Doing it right
the first time.” RUUD Dealer. 210-3937422.
FREE TV ANTENNAS 5235836
3 T PLUMBING
Family Owned & Christian Based. Call
Bryan, Master Plumber (LIC#M39336)
at 210-323-6066. plumbermant@yahoo.
com. www.3tplumbing.com
•
•
•
•
Mattresses
Tires (limit 6 passenger car tires per
household)
Toilets
Water Heaters
Informational flyers will be available at the Great Northwest Lodge info
center, at 8809 Timberwilde St.
MARTY’S LAWN SERVICES
Lawn Services: $25 to $50. Pressure
washing available. Call Tony at 210-5223736 or Marty at 210-322-4619
MOVING?
Let me help you find your next house
or apt. No worries about high pressure.
Joshua 210-705-3674.
AUTO REPAIR
GNW residents auto repair and service.
Servicing most makes and models. Call
Andrew @ 443-564-9100 or Robert @
210-516-5615.
Accepted Materials:
JULY 2016 • 15
MARBACH ROAD STORAGE
9975 Marbach Rd. 673-1927. 6’x6’ $43/
month – 10’x10’ $59/month. Open & inside parking - RV’s, Boats, Motorhomes.
24hr security. 2 door/barnstyle indoor
storages. 6’x6’ - 11’x30’.
$9.50 SERVICE CALL
Repairs for Refrigerators, Stoves, Washers, Dryers, and freezers. 1 year warranty.
Quick service. Contact Marcus at 210291-5431.
GENERAL CARPENTRY
Semi-retired carpenter. General carpentry. Call Mike 951-294-0682
AFTER HOURS NOTARY
Now serving the GNW! Call 210-7405079. Notario Publico – se habla espanol lla me 210-740-5079.
GLR CONCRETE
Driveways patios sidewalk. No job to big
or too small. Reliable and trustworthy.
Free estimates 210-420-7253.
CANTU PLUMBING
With Sewer Camera Inspection. License
#RMPM12400. Insured for your protection. Residential and Commercial. Call
256-1868.
PET SITTER NIGHT & DAY
20 yrs experience! Ask for Donna. Call
______________________________________
REAL ESTATE
______________________________________.
REALTOR SERVICES
Want to sell your home or buy a home?
Please call me at 210-884-4364. Toni
Saldana with Icon Realty
______________________________________
WANTED
______________________________________
CASH FOR iPHONES, iPADS
Have a damaged Apple device you don’t
use? I’ll buy it for cash! Must be unlocked!
Text 210-608-7023
_____________________________________
FOR SALE
______________________________________
CUSTOM CAT TOWERS
I make & sell cat trees. Prices start @
$15 & up — uniqueartcattowers.com. Art
Martinez — 210-719-3495.
YOUR
CLASSIFIED
COULD BE
HERE
210.681.2983
8809 Timberwilde
ADVERTISE IN
PASSAGES
DISPLAY ADS
Starting at $50
bimonthly
Size and Prices vary
CLASSIFIED ADS
Residents:
FREE: first 4 lines
$3: per line after 4 th line
(for part-time services
or for sale items)
Businesses / Full-Time
Services
$15: first 4 lines
$3: per line after 4 th line
Residents in good
standing receive
30% off
For more info:
210.681.2983 ext. 109
communicate@
greatnorthwest.org
16 • 2016 JULY
June is for Baby Showers!
We’ve had not one, not two, but three baby
showers in the month of June at the Emerald Valley
Lodge (Flores Hall). For three weekends in a row, festive baby shower decor graced the hall. Here are some of the highlights:
BBQ Girl’s Baby Shower
Rodriguez Family
ffordable
REMODELING DESIGNS
• Patio Covers
• Kitchens
• Room Additions
• Bathrooms
210-724-9145
Serving San Antonio
[email protected]
BBB • Licensed • Insured • Bonded
Need to host a party?
Call
210.681.2983
to learn more about renting out the GNW Halls and Pools
Nautical Themed Boy’s Baby Shower
Doax Family