The Messenger - Crofton Meadows Homeowners Association

BCROFTON MEADOWS HOMEOW NERS’ ASSOCIATIONME
FALL 2005
The Messenger
President’s Corner:
CROFTON MEADOWS ELEMENTARY
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT FULLY FUNDED!
When the County told the PTA of Crofton Meadows Elementary over a year ago that the existing equipment was
condemned, they also informed the school that they would
have to raise the money for any new equipment. When the
Crofton Meadows Home Owner’s Association (CMHOA)
heard this, we started looking for ways to raise money along
with the PTA. The first figure I heard was $70,000. As
President, I called the school Principal; she said that was the
policy of the County, but the actual amount was around
$58,000. Still not a small goal…
While the PTA was ardently focusing on raising monies, the
CMHOA tried to assist by focusing on getting the County to
pay for replacing the equipment. We held that their lack of
maintenance let it get in to such a state of disrepair that it
had to be condemned.
By June, the PTA had raised approximately $15,500. The
CMHOA had asked Torrey Jacobson, President of the
Greater Crofton Council, to help us get the rest of the funding. He immediately rose to the occasion. Torrey got two
local builders to donate $25,000. He got a playground
equipment company that is recognized by the County to
Come enjoy this Crofton Meadows
holiday tradition!
December 17th 2 p.m.—5 p.m.
Crofton Meadows Elementary
Santa Claus! Cookies & hot cocoa!
make a presentation of equipment. Torrey also made arrangements for the old equipment to be removed at no cost.
This information was all brought to the attention of the Crofton Meadows PTA at a meeting in June. The Principal, Ms.
Bennett was present, along with Torrey Jacobson and myself. Everything was presented, and it was expected the new
equipment could be in by October of this year. Then County
and School politics got involved. Fortunately, the money
was finally accepted in September and everything will be
finalized by the School Board the end of this month.
Crofton Meadows owes Torrey Jacobson a great big
THANK YOU! Without his help and efforts, we would still
be trying to raise the necessary money for a long time to
come. There also has to be great THANK YOU to the PTA.
With their efforts and Torrey’s, our children will not only
have a new, safe playground, but the school now also has an
excess in the playground fund.
Percy Sussex
President
P AGE 2
T HE M E SS EN GE R
Community Notes
Let’s Play Soccer!!!
Arundel Soccer Association has partnered with CMHOA for use of the soccer field that
went in where the tennis courts were removed.
ASA was looking at opportunities to work with communities and will utilize the field
for practice Monday through Friday evenings in the Fall from about 5 PM until dark.
In addition to youth programs, ASA offers coaching clinics for parents interested in
coaching, and is a member of the “Positive Coaching Alliance”. For more information
on ASA, visit www.ArundelSoccer.com.
Safety Site!!!
Go this site and enter your address...it will show a "house", that's yours... all the little colored boxes are Sex Offenders where they live in proximity to your home and the
local schools. Knowledge is key for safety!
CMHOA
Board Members
President
Percy Sussex
Vice President / Treasurer
Chris Wieland
Secretary
George Barret
Other Members
Susan Sircovics
Mary Sue Tomey
Mike Drabick
Jeffrey Wagner
Steven Stovall
Janene Kantorski
www.familywatchdog.us.
Economic Tips – www.econ4u.org
Sponsored by FirstJobs Institute, Econ4U teaches young people, in a non-academic
environment, important economic concepts that are easy to understand. Learn about
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a quiz-style format. Detailed explanations of the answers to questions presented are
posted on this site.
Recording Secretary
Barbara Stevenson
ProCom Representative
David Jernigan
www.croftonmeadows.com
Hatha Yoga All Levels
Yoga for kids of all ages
Specialty Workshops
Yoga Teacher Training
Jacci Reynolds
www.croftonyoga.com
410-451-4464
Crofton Yoga is an independently
owned Kripalu Affiliated Yoga Studio
P AGE 3
T HE M E SS EN GE R
Ecologically Speaking
MUMS the word "Chrysanthemums" that is !!! These
along with pumpkins, Indian corn, cornstalks, and the
turning leaves make this a very colorful time of the year.
A special thanks to all of our homeowners/tenants who
take the time to plant and decorate with them. You, like
your Home Owner’s Association have limited time and
money for these enhancements, but it really makes a big
difference in our community’s appearance!
This past growing season has been very hard on all of
us (due to lack of rain) but we did manage to keep some
of our new plantings. If you get a chance, stop by to see
the new Grasses at the front of the lake, the new field
where the old tennis courts were and some of the other
erosion control plants we had planted.
One of our ongoing problems is the Algae in the lake.
Every year since the dredging (5 years ago) we have
tried various methods and products to control or eliminate its growth. It clog's up our fountain's and gets attached to the lines of those fishing. We have now been
advised to plant some various aquatic type plants around
the edge of the lake to feed on those nutrients coming
from the surrounding areas which should help slow their
growth. This is where we could use some help, either as
a project for a group, (like the Scouts) or some individual
willing to Chair this task. If you or someone you know
has expertise in this field or you could help in any way,
please contact our representative, David Jernigan, at ProCom he will forward that information to us.
P.S.— you will also find more park benches to enjoy
around the lake on your next visit. For those of you who
have not been to the lake area, check it out—it’s beautiful every season ENJOY THE PARK !!
George Barrett
Secretary / Chairman– Ecological Committee
Architectural Review
As we get ready to move indoors for the winter, some of us
are thinking of plans for renovation projects for the upcoming year. Here are a few suggestions for getting it done right
the first time. First, start with a maximum amount you are
willing to spend on the project and use 70-80% for planning
purposes. Save the rest for last-minute needs. Remodeling is
not an exact science, and the unexpected usually occurs.
Find out if you need permits from the county, or if you are
even allowed to do what you are planning, due to zoning
issues and Home Owners Association By-laws. In Crofton
Meadows, you are required to fill out an Architectural
Change Request form and submit it for approval. Crofton
Meadows By-Laws are available on the web, along with the
architectural forms at www.croftonmeadows.com. The
county also has codes and regulations that need to be followed. For example, a shed that is bigger than 64 sq. ft. requires a permit to build on your property. The internet links
below are helpful in determining if you need permits or any
other special documents. Hire a reputable contractor, and do
not fall for pressure sales – “If you buy today I can knock off
20%”. Take your time and do some research. Ask people in
the community who they used and if they would recommend
them. Get different quotes, and compare them. Good luck
on your project.
General Permit Information
Permit Application Center
Heritage Complex
2664 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone (410) 222-7700
Hours 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday - Friday except Holidays, or
Mail to PO Box 2700, Mail Stop 6003, Annapolis, MD
21404
http://www.aacounty.org/IP/PAC/GeneralInfo.cfm
Is a Building Permit Required?
Conquer Clutter
Residential Decluttering and Organization
(scroll to the bottom for your area of concern)
http://www.aacounty.org/IP/PAC/PermitRequired/Index.cfm
Inspections & Permits Home Page
http://www.aacounty.org/IP/index.cfm
Trish Walsh
Owner / Organizer
Residential Zoning Setbacks
phone (410) 451-3550
cell (301) 452-4734
[email protected]
http://www.aacounty.org/IP/PAC/Setbacks.cfm
Mike Drabick
Chairman—Architectural Committee
P AGE 4
T HE M E SSEN G ER
P AGE 5
T HE M E SS EN GE R
Treasurer’s Report
The budget cycle for Crofton
Meadows is about to occur, everyone
should be receiving bills for next year
sometime in the early part of December. Now, I would suspect people are
asking, “why worry me now about a
bill that is two months off?” The answer is simple really, the timeliness of
how we all pay our HOA fee impacts
the projects that can be accomplished
throughout the area we live in.
Lots to do, and some may have to
wait. The board of directors is always
trying to get projects done, given the
funds the community takes.
We all work and play and live our
lives in this community. Some for a
short period of time and some for
longer. We all want the community to
be a safe and fun place to live, with
areas that we can take our kids, pets
and friends to hang out. The projects
we have scheduled for this year were
in jeopardy because a fairly substantial number of community members
did not pay their dues. I can’t stress
enough, how important it is to pay the
HOA bill when you get it, it saves you
and your community grief, could impact your ability to sell your home and
hurts the community as a whole. Ok,
enough preaching.
VP/Treasurer
We have our budget set up for this
year with some changes that will help
clarify and consolidate where the
community is spending funds. We had
major outlays in funds to replace the
old broken down tennis courts, with
new playground area and equipment.
The community has gotten some
really excellent feedback from parents, who with their children have
enjoyed this newly renovated area.
Future projects for the upcoming
year have been talked about at the
monthly meetings, and these include
extending the pathway around the
lake, replacing playground equipment
in other sections of the community,
replacement tree planting that have
been destroyed by the beaver at the
pond and finally doing some minor
dredging at the pond corners.
Thanks for paying your bill on time,
have a great fall and winter, and let the
board know if you ideas on improving
where we all live.
Chris Wieland
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P AGE 6
T H E M E S S E N GE R
Luna Sea
natural, cost-effective solutions
for a healthy home
Does a clean house = a healthy house?
Exactly how nutritious are nutritional supplements and vitamins?
Why are incidents of asthma, cancer, and learning disorders skyrocketing?
Is there really formaldehyde in my makeup and skin care products?
Are the fumes from cleaning products really that harmful? That lightheaded feeling just means it’s
working, right?
Are those popular scented candles increasing the levels of lead and phenols in my home?
Are there safe alternatives to these toxic products that are competitively priced – and do they work?
For more information or to
schedule an appointment:
Visit: lunasea.thewhycircle.com
Or contact
Janene Kantorski at
Email: [email protected]
phone: 443-254-8402
Please contact us for information
on converting your home to a safe,
toxin-free environment and improving
your family’s overall wellness.
Remember - a little knowledge can’t hurt,
it’s what we don’t know that can…
P AGE 7
T H E M ESSENGE R
Fighting Back...
We’ve recently received information from Crofton Meadows residents of suspected drug activity in and around our
community. Like many other communities throughout the area, Crofton faces a growing battle against drugs. The police can’t solve this problem alone. Success requires community involvement. It’s important to know what an investigation requires and how you can help…
It’s often difficult to know what you are witnessing involves drugs. Outlined below are some behaviors that may indicate drug activity:
• An unusually large amount of traffic to one unit at strange hours. This can involve cars, taxis, or
foot traffic. This traffic is usually quick and the individuals stay only a short period of time. Sometimes the individuals don’t even go in al all; instead someone exits the residents. Other times,
visitors may shout to be let in.
• Finding drugs or drug paraphernalia (syringes, pipes, baggies, etc.) in the area.
• Repeated, observable exchanges of items, especially where money is visible.
• Offers to sell you drugs, or conversations about drugs that you overhear.
• Noxious odors coming from around the residence or building, such as a “musty” smell.
• Residence or building where extreme security measures seem to have been taken.
• Residence or building where no owner or primary renter is apparent, and no home activities –
yard work, painting, maintenance, etc. – seem to go on.
How to Report Drug Activity
Individuals cannot assume that the police are aware of the activity or that a neighbor has called.
Don’t assume that one report is all that is required. If the activity is ongoing, continue to report the
activity. If the pattern changes, report that change. All neighbors affected by the drug activity
are strongly encouraged to report.
What to Report
• What makes you think drugs are being sold? Have you found drug paraphernalia? How long has
the activity gone on?
• Have you reported the activity previously? If so, when? Is the drug activity occurring at the same
address or multiple addresses? Have you seen any weapons? How many and what kind?
• Keep a log and record dates, times of day, number of individuals in and out. If vehicles are involved, record a detailed description of the vehicle (make, model, year, two-door or four-door,
distinctive features) including tag number, expiration, and state.
•
What Happens After You Make A Report
Police need to be aware of the activity but do not need to respond immediately. Drug transactions
seldom involve any danger to either participants or bystanders. Drug deals are over very quickly. Often by the time an officer responds the transaction is complete and the individuals involved have
moved on.
911 for activity in progress
(410) 222-8610 for non-emergency calls for assistance
You can report anonymously, but it is more helpful if you provide your name and phone number in
case other information is needed.
Your reports are very important. While this information may not be used as direct justification for arrest or probable cause for a search warrant, it is very useful in an investigation. It lets the police
know there’s a problem and the reports provide a reason for the police to undertake an investigation
of an individual or residence.
Patricia Walsh
HOA President, Habitat I, Section B
Comments and suggestions are
always welcome.
Please send all newsletter related
correspondence to:
Newsletter
@croftonmeadows.com
or to CMHOA c/o ProCom
The Messenger is a community
newsletter for Crofton Meadows
and published by the Crofton
Meadows Homeowners’ Association.
Janene Kantorski, Editor
Patricia Walsh, Contributing
Editor
CMHOA
c/o ProCom
1111 Benfield Road
Suite 110
Millersville, MD 21108
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27 Tips To Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar
Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most
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guide has been prepared from current industry insider reports. Through these 27 tips you will
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control of your situation, and make the most profit possible.
1. Before Setting a Price - Do Your Homework: When you set your price, you make buyers aware of the
absolute maximum they have to pay for your home. As a seller, you will want to get a selling price as close to
the list price as possible. If you start out by pricing too high you run the risk of not being taken seriously by
buyers and their agents. If you are pricing too low it can result in selling for much less than you were hoping
for.
Setting Your Home's Sale Price: If You Live in a Subdivision - If your home is comprised of similar or identical
floor plans, built in the same period, simply look at recent sales in your neighborhood subdivision to give you a good idea
of what your home is worth.
If You Live in An Older Neighborhood - As neighborhoods change over time each home may be different in minor or
substantial ways and you will probably find that there aren't many homes truly comparable to your own. In this case you
may want to consider seeking a Realtor ® to help you with the pricing process.
If You Decide to Sell On Your Own - A good way to establish a value is to look at homes that have sold in your
neighborhood within the past 6 months, including those now on the market. a trip to City Hall can provide you with home
sale information in its public records, for most communities.
2. Understand Why You Are Selling Your Home: Your motivation to sell is the determining factor as to
how you will approach the process. It affects everything from what you set your asking price at to how much
time, money and effort you're willing to invest in order to prepare your home for sale. For example, if your
goal is for a quick sale, this would determine one approach. If you want to maximize your profit, the sales
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3. Keep the Reason(s) You are Selling to Yourself: The reason(s) you are selling your home will affect
the way you negotiate its sale. By keeping this to yourself you don't provide ammunition to your prospective
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the negotiation process. When asked, simply say that your housing needs have changed.