Welcome New Neighbors

Linda Harvey and Linda Shannon-Hills

Welcome to the new homeowners who closed on their properties in August. We are so glad you have joined us to enjoy our beautiful community of SaddleBrooke Ranch (SBR).

The first thing people want to do when they move in here is to meet new people. Besides meeting your immediate neighbors during your move, the next way to meet new people is to get involved with activities. Thankfully there are lots of activities here from which to choose. The weekly Ranch Reminder email sent from Alex of the Homeowners Association (HOA) has a few activities mentioned. But the best resource is the HOA website. Just log on to saddlebrookeranchhoa.org and click on “Things to Do,” and then “Clubs.” Then click on any activity and find out some information that may help you decide if you want to join. You may want to contact the person mentioned for additional information. There are nearly 100 activities listed under these headings: Cards & Games, Creative Arts & Technology, Dance, Music & Theater, Interests & Hobbies, Health & Wellness, Service, Social, and Sports. If you can’t find what you are looking for, consider starting a club. There are probably other people here with a similar interest. While there is a lot going on here, members of organizations are not likely to knock on your door just to ask you to join a particular group. It is up to the resident to show some initial interest and show up for an activity. You can be as busy as you want.

Please keep in mind that all the clubs and organizations listed on the website under Things to Do are organized and maintained by resident volunteers—just like you. Volunteering is a great way to meet and to spend time with people who have similar interests. And don’t be afraid to try something new or different.

Plus, in the spring, the HOA hosts a Club Expo at which clubs and organizations set up tables in the ballroom to discuss their specific activity in order to sign up new members. There will be more information about the Club Expo as the date gets closer.

Finally, you might be surprised at how many people you are likely to meet by just going to the Bistro or Ranch House. Most of the people here have been in your shoes, eager to meet people. So, a smile and a friendly “hello” can work wonders.

Aside from meeting people, getting settled is a top priority when you arrive at SBR. Please stop by and introduce yourself to Jamie Shipley at the Front Desk as she has some orientation material for you. She works for the HOA and is the first person to contact with your questions and issues about the HOA. If you are moving from one home to another in SBR, or are a renter, it is recommended that you also stop by the Front Desk. There is more to moving in than getting a set of keys and a gate pass.

Jamie can help ensure that your credit authorization is in place so charges for food gets credited to your HOA statement properly; that you have a 4-digit code as a backup for entrance to the community; that you can access the HOA website; and much more. She is also the contact for getting a Guest Pass for your guests so they can use the fitness center facilities. The Front Desk is located in the Ranch House near the main ballroom entrance.

Moving into a new community can be daunting with everything that needs to be done. We are fortunate to have a team of welcome volunteers who can offer a brief respite from the hassle of moving. These volunteers have information designed specifically for SBR residents. This information is presented from a resident’s point of view and can help acquaint the new resident with the community. The information is in the form of a digital handbook called the Settler’s Guide.

In addition, each newcomer is also invited to attend an informal gathering of residents which is held monthly. The gathering is an opportunity to share information and to socialize with new homeowners. Photos are also taken for the SaddleBrooke Ranch Roundup newspaper. While a photo is optional, it is a good way to be introduced to the community. If you would like more information about any of these newcomer welcome activities, please contact Linda Harvey at [email protected] or Linda Shannon-Hills at [email protected] for more information.

Closings in August

Unit 17:        Steven and Stephanie Pigman, Carl and Jeri Pfeiffer, Gerald and Laurie Kunert, Trent Ritzenthaler

Unit 18A:        Barbie and Todd Pratt, Jerry and Sharon Elias, James Earl, Robert and Vicky Valdivia, Karen Rhoads, David and Faye Puelston

Unit 18B:        Gary and Kathy Petersen, Kenneth and Mary Duncan, Mark Decarufel and Vickie Strand, George and Vickie Thomson, Kevin and Kristi Triskori

Unit 46A:        Joseph and Lisa Gifford

Villas 14B:        Bernice Casey

No photo available:

Tom and Elaine Anderson moved here from South Carolina. He is a retired Navy flight surgeon and she is a retired nurse and midwife. Both are interested in woodworking. She also wants to do quilting while he does lapidary and jewelry making. Home is now in Unit 17.