Linda Harvey and Linda Shannon-Hills
Welcome to the new homeowners who closed on their properties in September. 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 the 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 Club Expo, at which clubs and organizations set up tables in the ballroom to display and discuss their specific activities in order to sign new members up. There will be more information about 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 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 that charges for food get 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 and is titled the Settler’s Guide.
In addition, each newcomer is invited to attend an informal gathering of residents that is held monthly. The Newcomers’ Gathering is an opportunity to share information and to socialize with new homeowners. Photos are also taken for the SaddleBrooke Ranch Roundup newspaper. While the 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 September
Unit 6: Dennis Boilini
Unit 7: Stephen and Charmaine Peterson, Philip and Julie Fox
Unit 9B: Dennis Voye and Bette Anderson
Unit 16A: Ronald and JoAnn Roberts
Unit 17: Marlon and Vicky Gorden, Kevin and Debbie Stackis, Howard Friedman and Rita Tillim
Unit 18: Kathy Ellis, Donald DelFavero and M Olson
Unit 18B: Neal Feinerman and Edie Goldhar, Steven and Shirley DeCarufel, Timothy and Lucinda Legel, Curtis and Patricia Merill
Villas 14B: Randy and Linda Peterson
Villas 21A: David and Mary Jo Nelson, William and Lauralie Moye, Charles and Melissa Keiper
No photos available:
* Tom Flynn and Lynn Skeele-Flynn are high school sweethearts from Virginia Beach. They moved here “seeking a well-managed 55+ community.” Now they are enjoying the people, the amenities, and living in Unit 14 while their home is built in Unit 18C.
* Evan and Ellen Soldinger, recently from San Diego, were born and raised in New Jersey. Now living in Unit 18A, they are enjoying SBR and long-time friends who also live here.