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Spring Ridge Review Newsletter
May 2004

Dear Spring Ridge Home Owners,

This year marks the 15th year since our awesome community first began in Phase I. We need only look around to see how beautifully the landscaping has matured, and how well the common areas and recreation areas have been maintained. The fairly recent completion of the shopping area and the Profession Park have rounded out the community with a wide range of stores, businesses and service providers. Spring Ridge is indeed a first-rate community with a full range of amenities, and property values that have soared.

While our fifteenth year is certainly a marker of pride and satisfaction, it also serves as a reminder that our properties do age, and with aging comes a greater need for regular maintenance and upkeep.

I’d like to take a moment to remind all home owners that the community is only as good as we make it, and that while the Association can and does maintain a high level of scheduled upkeep, this only addresses the common areas. It is we the Home Owners who must see that our individual homes are maintained to just as high a degree if we can expect our community to retain it’s beauty, reputation, and corresponding property values. As homes get older, paint and trim need attention, possibly replacement; shutters that may blow off have got to be replaced; front doors that fade out can alone make a house look diminished and shabby; bushes and trees that may have succumbed to winter’s trauma need to be removed. Toys and sleds and containers may have accumulated and should be removed. These and many other items require ongoing maintenance.

We all signed documents when we purchased in Spring Ridge - whether new or resale - agreeing to abide by the rules and regulations of the HOA. The HOA does not request, but requires home owners to keep their property in good repair, clean, orderly, and uniform. When home owners fail to do so, this generates a number of actions on the part of the HOA which are extremely time-consuming and expensive. The HOA docs do allow, as a last resort, for the HOA itself to send contractors onto the property of renegade home owners and complete repairs, with the community footing the bill if the home owner does not.

Needless to say, the Association would rather not pursue such a drastic course of action; but the fact is that while the vast majority of home owners are diligent and take good care of their homes and yards, there is nevertheless a sizable handful that does not, and these few genuinely jeopardize the property values of EVERY ONE OF US.

Please take a moment this Spring to make a thorough assessment of your property, and then promptly see to the items that need attention. If you would like a list of qualified, reasonably priced contractors, please contact me at springridge@mris.com. If you are having trouble, or have questions, please see Richard in the Visitor Center. If you feel you purchased here without receiving the HOA documents, please contact myself or Richard to purchase or view a copy. Whether we have them or not, or read them or not, we are all still bound to the rules and regulations of the HOA. If followed, we can ensure that the beauty and the value of Spring Ridge is the legacy for all of us, for many, many years to come.

This Spring, make it a priority to protect your investment, and that of your neighbors. Take a good hard look and get your property back in shape.

Happy Spring!
Susan Gargon-Centineo
President, Board of Directors

Board of Director’s Corner
Next Meeting: May 18, 2004 at 7pm - Visitor Center

1. The Board thanks Lise O’Connell, for setting the Public Safety meeting on Monday, April 20th. Excellent speakers, and a lot of useful information was put out. Hopefully, this will re-energize the Spring Ridge Neighborhood Watch program.

2. With the warmer weather we are naturally seeing kids coming out to the parks and common areas. The PARK AREAS CLOSE AT DUSK. Parents, please know where your children are and remember that you are responsible for their actions. Numerous children as young as 10 and 12 have been seen roaming the community as late as midnight on school nights, and into the wee hours on the weekends. Besides begging for trouble, this is unsafe for the kids themselves. We are urged by the Frederick County Sheriff’s office to call if we see any young roamers late at night, or any suspicious activity. Spring Ridge is only as safe as we make it.

3. Spring Ridge has contracted, on a temporary assignment, with a private security firm to keep an eye on the activities at the Spring Forest Road playground, basketball courts, and soccer fields.

4. The playground equipment in the Phase I playground will be replaced, as vandals destroyed the slide. The replacement will cost between $15,000 to $20,000.

5. Bill Routzahn and Lori Kessler from the Frederick County Highway Department gave a very good analysis at the monthly board meeting of the county road repairs that will take place in Spring Ridge this spring and summer. Spring Ridge Parkway graded out at 14% requiring to be patched, while Ridgefield Drive is at 11%, 30% is the county’s threshold for re-paving. These repairs will be made in the next few weeks. Thanks to all those residents who complained about the poor condition of the roads.

6. The Visitor’s Center will undergo repair also, specifically the front concrete slab is sinking, pulling away from the building. This will be repaired by inserting jacks underneath the slab, then using hydraulics to move the slab back to its original position.

7. Volunteers are needed for both the Finance and Landscape Committees. If this is of interest to you, please contact Richard Gemmell with PMP in the Visitor Center at 301-620-0782.

PMP Holiday Information

The Visitor Center will be closed Monday, May 31st in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday. PMP, Inc. and your Board of Director’s wish you a Happy and Safe Memorial Day weekend.

Directory Correction

The telephone number for Spring Nails at the Spring Ridge Shopping Center was listed in the Spring Ridge Community Directory incorrectly. The correct telephone number for Spring Nails in Spring Ridge Shopping Center is 301-624-5484. Management apologizes for any inconvenience. Thank you.

Swim Lesson Information

Group Lessons: Century Pool will be providing group swim lessons this spring and summer for the residents of Spring Ridge. The lessons will take place at the Spring Ridge pools. The fee is $55.00 per child, per group session. The child must be at least three (3) years old. There will be a total of nine (9) 30 minute lessons per session. Payment must be made by check or money order to Century Pools. Private Lessons: Private lessons will also be offered at a fee of $25.00 per half hour lesson (one child per private lesson). Payment for private lessons must be made by check to Century Pools or by exact cash only. For additional information, please contact Paul Lively with Century Pools at 301-798-0077 ext. 11 or stop by the Visitor Center to obtain an information packet. Thank you.

Spring Ridge Elementary Spring Fling

Spring has Sprung! At Spring Ridge Elementary School, we’re celebrating! We would like to invite the community to our Second Annual Spring Fling! This gala event takes place in our cafeteria/gymnasium on May 7th, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The theme for the event is “Happiness is...” On the agenda for the evening is a performance by the 4th and 5th grade chorus, a Silent Auction, and A “Live” dessert auction with desserts made by our staff! Auction items range in value from $5.00 to $1,500.00. Groove on in and share a little Spring Happiness with others!

Upcoming Events at the Spring Ridge Community Schools presented by the PTAs and PTSAs of Spring Ridge Elem., Oakdale Elem., Gov. Thomas Johnson Middle and Gov. Thomas Johnson High Schools.

May 4 ~ 6:30pm - Band/Chorus Concerts and General Membership Meeting - TJMS
7pm - PTA Meeting - OES
7pm - PTA Meeting - SRES
May 7 ~ Hootenanny - OES
Spring Fling - SRES
May 11 ~ 6:30pm - Safe and Sane Meeting - TJHS
5th Grade Pictures - SRES
May 18 ~ 7pm - PTSA Meeting - TJHS
May 19 ~ 12 noon to 1:30pm - Volunteer Luncheon - TJMS
May 20 ~ 10:15 am - 6th Grade Awards Ceremony - TJMS
May 21 ~ 7pm - 8th Grade Dance - TJMS
May 25 ~ 9am - 7th Grade Awards Ceremony - TJMS
6:30pm - 8th Grade Awards Ceremony - TJMS
7pm - PTA County Council - Monocacy MS
May 26 ~ 8am to 8:45am - Volunteer Breakfast - OES
May 27 ~ Ribbon cutting for Stabile Constructed by Students
(Rain date 5/28/04) - SRES
May 28 ~ Spirit Day - Favorite Team Sports - SRES
May 31 ~ Schools Closed - Memorial Day Observed

For more information, please contact the representative schools. Times and dates are subject to change.

Calendar of Events

May 4 ~ 7pm - Pool Committee Meeting in VC
May 6 ~ 7pm - Recreation Committee Meeting in VC
May 7 ~ ACC Deadline
May 9 ~ Mother’s Day
May 12 ~ 7pm - ACC Meeting in VC
May 13 ~ 7pm - Hampton Court II Condo Annual Meeting in VC
May 15 ~ 8am to 12 noon - Spring Ridge Community Yard Sale
May 18 ~ 7pm - Conservancy BOD Meeting in VC
May 19 ~ 7pm to 9pm - FAN Club Social at Chico’s
May 23 ~ 4pm to 7pm - Spring Ridge Shark Registration in VC
May 31~ Visitor Center Closed - Memorial Day Observed

Dog and Cat Licenses

Management would like to remind the residents of Spring Ridge that Frederick County Animal Control requires your pet dogs and cats to be properly licensed and vaccinated. Any dog or cat that is four (4) months old or older is required to be vaccinated against rabies. Please contact your pet’s Veterinarian for additional information regarding vaccinations. Dogs and cats are also required to be properly licensed by the age of six (6) months. You may obtain dog and cat licenses provided by Frederick County Animal Control for a fee from management in the Visitor Center (Please bring a copy of your pet’s rabies vaccination records). If you have any questions, please contact your local Veterinarian or Frederick County Animal Control at 301-694-1546. Thank you.

Ride, Ride, Ride

“Tired of Driving?” Want to shorten your commute? Want an hour of your life back each day? How about getting that day off back each pay period? We support a compressed work schedule! Don’t miss out! Join the Spring Ridge/Frederick - D.C. Van Pool! 14 passenger van; approximately $150 a month (cheap), Ride in comfort, Metro Checks Accepted. Schedule Daily; ToD.C.: 7th St.- 5:15am/Urbana P&R - 5:35am/Downtown D.C. - 6:30am. To Frederick: D.C. - 4:35pm to 4:50pm/Urbana - 5:55pm/7th St. - 6:15pm. For information contact Carol Burrill at 202-872-2744 (work) or 443-538-0277 (cell).

SPRING CLEANING:
From an upset owner

Man, I am frustrated...let me tell you why.

Let’s hope that spring is finally here. With at least the coming of springtime weather, it’s a great time to consider doing some spring cleaning. It has become alarmingly clear, now that the snow and ice are all melted, that many pet owners have not been picking up after their pets. It is astounding how many pet owners take the lazy, irresponsible way out and just allow their pet(s) to defecate on the sidewalks, and in the grass and just walk away from it. I wonder how they would feel if someone let their dog poop on their yard? They would be very upset and would be the first to call management and want something done about it. Wouldn’t they? Well, letting your dog poop on common area grass is like letting your dog poop on 1394 different people’s front yards. Remember this is an association and every owner owns a portion of the common area. So when you see a pet owner letting their dog do it’s duty on the grass, and they don’t pick up after it, you should be upset. Don’t let those people get away with it. Say something to them, in a nice way, but for gosh sakes, don’t let them get away with it. I really think, some pet owners think that if no ones actually confronts them, then they aren’t guilty and have gotten away with it. So I say, politely confront them and remind them of the rules and common decency.

Classifieds

For Sale:

2000 Grand Voyager SE. 3.3 Engine; Excellent condition; well maintained; Maryland inspected; one (1) owner; 63,000 miles; Only $8,995.00. Call 301-682-7992.

China Cabinet. Medium wood, glass doors, drawers on bottom. Asking for $400.00 OBO. Call Susie at 301-668-2205.

Burley Single Bike Trailer. Holds one (1) child. Asking for $130.00. Call Susie at 301-668-2205.

May Is All About Fashion!
FAN Club Social at Chico’s
in the new Westview Promenade
May 19th from 7-9 pm

Chico’s will be closing their doors just for us that evening!
They will treat us with a personalized
Fashion Show followed by shopping time!
The store specializes in unique casual and travel wear for women and invites us to take advantage of a 10% discount that evening on all our purchases. Refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP to Jean Wright if you plan to join us at Jean-Wright@att.net or 301-620-9440.

It’s the perfect time to spruce up your Spring Wardrobe
And get ready for summer vacations!

Pool Committee News

Start counting the days until Saturday, May 29th, because that’s when the Spring Ridge Pools Open. Yes, it’s finally happening - not long after you see the crowd of daffodils and hear the mowers cutting lawns. Time to get your swimsuits out or buy new ones. Young and old will soon be immersed in our four glorious swimming pools. Farewell to the winter landscape!

v The Board of Directors approved an extension of our pool season so that for two extra weeks beyond Labor Day, our pools will be in operation. So, the pools will close this year on Sunday evening, September 19th.
v The Pool Committee has voted to replace the worn out volleyball equipment with top of the line extra sturdy equipment for your recreational pleasure. This is a fun-filled sport for everyone. Join in!!
v Hooray!!! The main pool will be available to all residents during all evenings that the Sharks hold their practices. This is because the Sharks will be using the No Splash/Lap Pool this season.
v Pool Passes - New residents can obtain pool passes from the Visitor Center on weekdays from 11am to 5pm. Residents who have lost their passes can get duplicates for a fee of $5.00 - also from the Visitor Center.
v Fun Events (Details to follow in the next newsletter)
Float Nights - Main Pool: Friday, June 25th - 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Friday, July 23rd - 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Friday, Aug. 27th - 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Adult Nights - Main Pool Friday, July 9th - 8pm to 10:30pm
Friday Aug. 20th - 8pm to 10:30 pm

July 4th - Pools will close at 6pm.

July 31st - Community Pool Party – Begins 12 Noon: A spectacular time is being planned. Details will follow in the next newsletter.

Teen Night Friday, Aug. 13th - 8pm to 11pm

v Remember Sharkey, our Pool Etiquette Mascot? Here are some tips from him this year to make your time at the pool even more remarkable:

1) Please use the trash cans available at the pools for your spilled food items.
2) Please be considerate of the lifeguards.
3) Do Not Block the pool steps.
4) During peak hours, kindly avoid putting your towels and possessions on empty lounge chairs.

Try to attend our next Pool Committee Meeting on May 11th at 7pm at the Visitor Center. Your questions, concerns, and suggestions will be much appreciated. We need you to add to our best season ever - Summer of 2004.

Shark News
Spring Ridge Shark Swim Team

We have a great season planned! We are looking forward to seeing our old friends as well as welcoming new ones. Registration begins Sunday, May 23rd 4-7pm at the Visitor’s Center and will be accepted until Wednesday, June 9th. All registrations will be handled through the Visitor’s Center. We will have the team suit for sale on the 23rd (not mandatory). The cost for registration is $60 per swimmer. The insurance for the FSSL (Frederick Summer Swim League) that we are apart of, has doubled! Each swimmer pays $10 towards ribbons, division trophies and insurance (included in our $60 fee). We have decided to accept a limited number of sponsors/sponsorships for the Sharks this year to help offset the ever-increasing costs of running the team. Please contact Shani Roeder if you would like to sponsor the Sharks!

Our season consists of eight weeks. Home meets are June 26th, July 10th and Divisionals July 24th. Away meets are July 3rd and 15th (Thurs.). All home meets have a rain date of Sunday, the next day. A swimmer must be between the ages of 4 and 18 and able to swim one length of the pool without touching or stopping. Together, with your parents, you must be able to commit to swimming in at least two regular meets. Your parents must be able to assist with the running of every meet you attend and also help out with the special functions we have planned for you this season!

June 19th 8-10 am will be time trials. All swimmers should attend to give our coaches accurate times to use in meet entries as the league requires. There will be a mandatory parent meeting before the start of this event. We will need timers to help record and get ready for our first meet on the 26th.

Our website is currently under construction for the 2004 season and will be active prior to registration. You can reach the link through the www.springridgeonline.com. It will contain meet schedules, event and contact information, Shark rules as well as the rules of the FSSL. Please check it often! If you are interested in sponsoring and or volunteering with the Sharks you can reach Shani at theroeders@msn.com or at 301-663-1960. See you on the 23rd!

Johannes Gross and Gary Roeder
Co-Chairs of the Sharks

Recreation Committee

The Easter Egg Hunt was a huge success again this year! Thanks so much to Melissa Adams for organizing such a fun event! We had a ton of volunteers–adult and children–who helped make this event super special. Thanks!

Remember to mark your calendars and drop off your registration form with $1.00 for the yard sale on May 15th. Registration will make sure that your house is marked on the community map that will be distributed the morning of May 15th. Deadline–May 13th.

Spring Ridge Golf League– 16 Weeks–9 Hole League–Wednesday Evenings. Beginning May 12th–6:00 PM Shotgun Start–Musket Ridge Golf Club, Myersville. Weekly Prizes, Mid and year end tournaments, Fun, Fun, Fun!!! Questions? Sign up? Please call Earl Englehart @ (301) 698-8165 or email SpringRidgeGolf@adelphia.net.

The Recreation Committee is looking for a volunteer–either an adult or a teenager–to plan and organize events especially for our teenagers. Please call Susie Houston at (301) 668-2205 if you are interested. Also, plan on attending our May meeting on May 6th at 7:00 PM at the Visitor’s Center.

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