Newsletter February

2019 Steeplechase Board Chairman Stella York chairman@steeplechase.org Secretary lori Tippett secretary@steeplechase.org Treasurer Zack Trinite treasurer@steeplechase.org Community President Scott Sherwin community.president@steeplechase.org Community Social Director Pam Cox community.social@steeplechase.org Communications Angela Sowinski communications@steeplechase.org Webmaster Christy Vallance webmaster@steeplechase.org Facility President Jeremy Ladd facility.president@steeplechase.org Facility Social Director Mary Gonzalez facility.social@steeplechase.org Facility Operations Director Jon Lovejoy operations@steeplechase.org Facility Swim/Teenis Director Danielle Butera swim.tennis@steeplechase.org Issue 2, Volume 19, February 2019 Hope your 2019 is off to a great start! It’s that time of year again…most of you know the drill. HOA Dues are payable NOW and are DUE on March 1. A Community Membership Level of $100 a year (or $8.00 a month, or .27 cents a day) is an investment in your property and the property of all your neighbors. Community Membership keeps our neighborhood looking presentable and helps pay for a myriad of things that must take place to keep it looking that way. It also opens the door for you to get involved with Community-wide events, voting, communications, etc. A Facility Membership Level of $375.00 a year opens the door a little farther for more fun social events throughout the year. Of course, there is also access to our pond, playground, pavilion, 3 tennis courts and the pool, which is getting a major face lift as we speak. Ready for some SUNSHINE?! See the Enrollment Form in this newsletter. A PayPal option is available on the website – www.steeplechase.org – Payment Tab. We will vote on the Budget for 2019 at our General Membership Meeting on March 21st (must be a Community Member to vote). We are working on our 2019 Social Calendar, that once again, is loaded with activities throughout the year for both Community and Facility membership levels. What we have so far is included on another page in this newsletter. We will be getting back to a consistent eblast schedule so there is NO WAY you can’t know what’s going on in the ‘hood. NOTE: The January, February and March newsletter is mailed out to EVERY Steeplechase residence. The April-December newsletters are emailed out to those that have signed up for Newsletters and e-blasts. If you are new to Steeplechase or have never signed up… I encourage you to go to our website, www.steeplechase.org, and sign up on the “Newsletter” tab or at the bottom of any page, AND pay your dues by March 1st. Stay Warm! Stella York Chairman 2018-2019   A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CHAIRMAN 1925 Furlong Run, Lawrenceville, GA 30043 Steeplechase.org THE THOROUGH-READ NEWS Greeting Everyone, Well, it’s a new year and with new goals and new and interesting things to accomplish. Each year the common areas of our Community and the Facility need attention, repair and upgrades. It is important that you understand as a homeowner that your participation in funding these projects is up to YOU! We have not mandatory dues unfortunately, and we constantly struggle to find funds to keep the entrances and the facility for needed repairs or maintenance. Please join the Community Participation Member Program or CPMP. As a homeowner you travel through the entrances every day, and these entrances always need some attention. With an annual investment of $100 your funds will go to the upkeep and repair of the entrances each homeowner uses every day. We have 427 homes in this community and we have about 60% of the homeowners contribute $100, we need that other 40% to contribute, it’s for the good of the neighborhood you choose to live in. Our goal is 100% participation, let’s make this happen, this is your Community; let’s keep those entrances something that you can be proud of. If you choose to join the Facility, that allows you access to the pool and tennis courts, this is also not mandatory, if you have some extra funds to invest in this also, again, it’s just a good investment for the place you choose to live. Wishing everyone a prosperous 2019! Scot Sherwin Community President Winter Greetings! Winter has definitely arrived! As I write this, it is 30 degrees outside and very windy. But this weather did not stop me from walking my dog today and enjoying the beauty of our neighborhood. In the 15+ years I have lived in Steeplechase, I have never ceased to be grateful for the work done by the Homeowners Association on behalf of all of us and the residents who support the Homeowners Association with their financial support and talents. There is an old saying – you get out of it what you put into it. I think that is so true of our neighborhood too! In this age of many competing priorities, I do want to encourage all of us to think of ways we can put just a little bit more into Steeplechase, whether by attending an Homeowner’s Association meeting, helping on a Neighborhood workday (even for 2 hours), or becoming a community or facility member for the first time. As I have reflected on the work done by the Homeowners Association over the past 15 years, I am grateful they keep up the tennis courts, the pool, the entrances, and keep an eye on houses that might be abandoned and an eye sore. In 2018, our neighborhood had the unexpected challenge of developing a viable solution to address the aesthetic challenge created when Jackson EMC cut down all the trees on Sever Road. And they succeeded through team work and I suspect a few beers while staining the fence. Imagine what the value of all our homes would be over all these years we had not had a Homeowners Association to maintain our entrances, tennis courts, and the pool. Right now, Steeplechase has a great reputation in this area and we need to keep it that way. This year as Community Social Director I am planning 4 events: Easter Egg Hunt, Spring Garage Sale, Memorial Day Parade, and a Back-to-School social. I hope all of you enjoy these events and meet more of your neighbors. I also hope all of you feel welcome to volunteer to help out – either with these events or others that are offered this year. Have a great 2019! Pam Cox, Community Social Director A MESSAGE FROM YOUR COMMUNITY SOCIAL DIRECTOR A MESSAGE FROM YOUR COMMUNITY PRESIDENT STEEPLECHASE SWIM AND TENNIS The weather is cold and dreary. It is making me dream of sunshine and hot Summer days. What will you be doing this Summer? My family and friends will be laying out in the sun, swimming in our newly resurfaced pool, grilling on the neighborhood grill, and playing tennis on our beautiful courts. We are already looking forward to all of the Spring and Summer events planned for the community and facility members. Would you like to be a part of the fun this year? By joining the facility, you have access to the tennis courts, the pool, the pond, and the playground. It’s an opportunity to make new friends, become more active, and support your neighborhood. If you have children, they will have endless entertainment within walking distance from your door. See below for more facility activities you can be a part of. Spring Tennis: This Spring, there will be two women’s tennis teams and one men’s tennis team playing in our neighborhood. Come out and cheer on your neighbors as they compete. If you’re not interested in joining a team, Facility Members can always reserve a court at ReserveMyCourt.com to play at your leisure. Important Tennis Dates: Feb 17- Mixed Doubles play ends Feb 23- Mixed Doubles Play-offs Mar 14- Thursday Woman Spring play begins Mar 16- Men Spring play begins Mar 17- Sunday Women Spring play begins   Summer Swim: There are only a little over 3 months until the pool opens. Don’t forget to pay your facility dues by March 1st, so you can enjoy one of the best parts of our neighborhood. If you have children who are looking to improve their swimming skills, stay active while school is out, and make new friends in the neighborhood, sign them up for swim team. The Steeplestation Stingrays are a family-oriented team that fosters teamwork, sportsmanship, and goal setting, in addition to proper swim technique and endurance. Join us for registration day on March 23 at the Jefferson Station Clubhouse. Practice will begin Monday, May 13 after school. A detailed schedule will be posted in the newsletter, on Facebook, and on the pool bulletin board so that everyone is aware of the practice schedule this Spring and Summer. Please feel free to email me with any questions you have about the swim team. swim.tennis@steeplechase.org      A MESSAGE FROM YOUR SWIM & TENNIS DIRECTOR Hello Residents and Members:  There are a lot of new board members that have written letters for this version of the newsletter, so I will stay very brief and share some pictures with you. The pool project is moving right along even with delays due to the weather, and additional problems that we ran across. Also, please remember that payment for 2019 memberships are due next month, and we are looking forward to having you as a member this year. How do I join the pool? The registration form is attached, or you can find it at www.steeplechase.org.  Jeremy Ladd Facility President 770-833-2722 facility.president@steeplechase.org A MESSAGE FROM YOUR FACILITY PRESIDENT A MESSAGE FROM YOUR NEW COMMUNITY WEBMASTER A MESSAGE FROM OUR NEW COMMUNITY COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Hello, Neighbors. My name is Angela Sowinski. I have lived in Steeplechase 4 years this Februrary! My Husband Adam and I have been married going on 12 years now and have four children together Halinka-Grace 10, Caleb 7, Noah 6, and Lulu 4. We have so much fun being apart of this neighborhood. We love our thoughtful neighbors and our Neighborhood friends! We really enjoy going for walks and bike rides around our neighborhood streets. We have so much fun at the neighborhood gatherings and the pool parties are SWEET! And one of the very best things in our life is that we live just houses down from my sweet sister and her family. Family game nights are Awesome! I am so happy to have this opportunity to serve our community! I hope that You All, will enjoy to browse the Community Newsletters!! God is Good! Angela  Hello neighbors!   My name is Christy Vallance, and I will be serving as the Webmaster. My husband, James and I have lived in Steeplechase since 2004. Our daughters, Sarah and Katie grew up here and are now in college. My family has enjoyed all the benefits of Steeplechase, including swim team, holiday and social events, tennis, etc., and we’ve made many lifetime friends. In my role this year, I hope to continue efforts to improve our website and social media tools for increased neighborhood communication and awareness. Thanks, Christy A MESSAGE FROM YOUR FACILITY SOCIAL DIRECTOR Several additional and new events have been added to the calendar for 2019.  Steeplechase will have its first social event on March 9th at 6pm. Ashley Towers with Eye Candy Art Studio will host a Brush and Lush Canvas Class at our pavilion. There are a limited number of spaces available so register early. We need a minimum of 10 participants to host the class. This is open to Community and Facility members. Register at www.eyecandyartstudio.net/events-calendar.html. Cost for the class is $30. Feel free to bring your beverage of choice.  Other facility social events include: Family Game night - May 4th Memorial Day Party - May 27th Early Independence Day Party - June 29th Adult Poker/Game night - August 24th Adult Close the Pool Party - Sept 14th Camp Steeplechase - October 5th Fall Festival - November 2nd Sign Painting Party - TBD I look forward to having a fun year and meeting new neighbors and catching up with old neighbors. Please send other activity ideas tofacility.social@steeplechase.org. Steeplechase Social Calendar 2019 March 9 - Brush & Lush Painting party (C/F) April 20 - Easter Egg Hunt (C/F) April 26-27 - Community Garage Sale (C/F) May 4 - Family Game Night (F) May 27 - Memorial Day Parade (C) & Party (F) June 29 - Early Independence Day Party (F) July 4 - Fireworks if not done on 6/29 (C/F) August 10 - Back to School Social (C/F) August 24 - Adult Poker Night/Game Night (F) September 14 - Close The Pool Party (F) October 5 - Camp Steeplechase (F) TBD in October- Arts & Crafts/Chili Cookoff (C/F) November 2 - Fall Festival (F) TBD in November - Sign Painting Party Need a baby sitter for Valentine’s Day? Girl Scout Troop 2419 is hosting Babysitter Club as a fundraiser for their summer trip. The babysitters range from 12-13 years old and a few parents will also be on staff to help. All ages of children are welcome. Call/Email in advance to reserve your child’s spot. When: February 14 from 6-9pm Where: 1991 Furlong Run (Gonzalez house) in Steeplechase neighborhood, Lawrenceville. What: Kids will have pizza, drink and snacks. Activities for kids will include a Grated movie, crafts and games. Cost: $10/hour for the first child and $5/hour for each additional child. Email GirlScouts2419@gmail.com or call 770-378-2605 for questions or reservations. YOUR STEEPLECHASE NEIGHBORHOOD STAR If you are a new neighbor and have not been welcomed into SteepleChase, we want to get to know you! The welcome committee would love to greet you and provide you with a packet of information about SteepleChase. If you would like us to stop by with a packet and answer any questions you may have, or if you know someone who hasn't been properly welcomed, please contact our Welcome Committee at welcome@steeplechase.org. See our website for more information. steeplechase.org Hi Neighbors! My name is Lori Tippett and I am your new secretary. I have lived in Steeplechase for the past 18 years along with my husband Kevin and our two sons, Austin and Ian. Austin is 20 years old and goes to Georgia Southern University. Ian is 17 years old and is a junior at Peachtree Ridge High School. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve on the neighborhood board.    Lori STEEPLECHASE PAVILION FOR RENT  Great for parties, meetings & family gatherings! The pavilion is available for use by Facility members in good standing to reserve for a special event. There is a minimal rental fee, plus a refundable cleaning deposit to ensure proper cleanup. For ad- ditional information or to make a reservation, contact Lori Tippett at—Secretary@steeplechase.org A MESSAGE FROM YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD SECRETARY Gwinnett County Police NON-EMERGENCY Phone Number 770-513-5700 STEEPLECHASE ON FACEBOOK SRHA & STEEPLECHASERESIDENT Post about a lost dog/cat/other Announce sign ups for sports teams Selling something? Put it on Facebook Share pictures from a neighborhood event February FIRST WEEK: • Prune apple and pear trees now – but postpone peach pruning until mid-March. • It’s dangerous to spray glyphosate (Roundup, etc) on bermudagrass, even if you think it is completely dormant. Make sure no green bermuda sprouts are near the soil surface. • Look for blooms on your Lenten rose (Helleborus orientalis). Few other plants can supply the year-round interest of this evergreen groundcover. • Redesign your lawn for easier mowing. Eliminate sharp angles and narrow turf areas. Use mulch, new flower beds or a groundcover like mondo grass there instead. SECOND WEEK: • How much fertilizer or lime does your lawn or garden really need? The only way to know for sure is to call your county Extension office (1-800-ASKUGA-1) and get a soil test kit. • Prune one-fourth of the branches from your overgrown fig bush. Removing any more will reduce the number of fruit this summer. Concentrate on saving the horizontal ones. • Bring branches of spirea, forsythia and flowering quince indoors. Placed in a vase, they will bloom in just a few days. • Remember to turn houseplants 180 degrees every two weeks to prevent uneven growth. THIRD WEEK: • Plant sweet pea now for fragrant flowers later. Plant English peas, onions, asparagus or elephant garlic for your spring vegetable garden. • Overgrown Burford holly shrubs can be pruned severely now. Even if it is reduced to twelve inches tall, this shrub will resprout plenty of new foliage by summer. • Plant a large container for your patio. A small boxwood surrounded by variegated ivy and blooming pansies would look very nice! • Plant a winter daphne (Daphne odorum) near your home’s entrance or front walkway. The scent will greet you each day when you arrive at your abode this spring. FOURTH WEEK: • Clean out bird boxes so they will be ready to welcome new residents in a few weeks. • Build raised beds for vegetables, roses and herbs. It’s easy to do with four pieces of 2×8 wood planks. Choose lengths that fit your space; bolt them together at the corners. • T• Set your mower to its highest setting and cut off the tattered leaves of liriope (monkey grass). They will quickly regrow in March.ime for the first fertilization of fescue for the year. Any brand of turf fertilizer will work well. Next application: April. THE GARDENING CORNER WOULD YOU LIKE TO RUN AN AD IN THE STEEPLECHASE NEWSLETTER? See timeframes and rates below. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. communications@steeplechase.org RELAX THIS SUMMER My name is Gideon Reese and I am 14 years old. I am interested in cutting laws or doing general yard work this year. If you are in need of affordable yard care pleae call me at 470-728-8822 STEEPLECHASE YOUTH Ad Cost 3 Months 6 Months Ad Size Per Month 10% Off 15% Off Business card $5.00 $13.50 $25.50 Quarter Page $15.00 $40.50 $76.50 Half Page $30.00 $81.00 $153.00 Full Page $60.00 $162,00 $306.00 ADVERTISEMENTS For the first three months of the year (January - March) , the newsletter will be distributed to the entire neighborhood (428 homes), in addition to being sent via e-blast. In April, we will begin our regular e-blast distribution. Hannah Kluesner Babysitting _____________________ Available for Pet sitting too CPR & First Aid Trained 678.502.6952 PARENTS! Do you have a teenager that would like to babysit, pet sit, tutor, or do yard work for the neighborhood? Did you know that if you are a Community Member that your child can advertise for FREE in the newsletter? Do you have a teenager or scout that needs community service hours? Contact the SteepleChase Communications Director for more information at communications@steeplechase.org We all hear about people in our neighborhood doing great things- young people heading off to military service, scholarships awarded, athletic accomplishments, academic honors, plans after graduation, the list goes on. It would be great to let our neighbors know about these things. if someone in your family has news to report, please send a short note to communications@steeplechase.org no later than the 20th of the month for inclusion in the upcoming month's edition of The Thorough-Read News. HELP WANTED MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW! PLAN TO ATTEND THE STEEPLECHASE RESIDENT'S GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING THURSDAY, MARCH 21ST 2019 7:30PM AT THE PAVILION We are looking for more volunteers to assist with closing the facility gate. Contact Jeremy Ladd for Details. facility.president@steeplechase.org 770-833-2722 !Many Thanks to Victoria Ladd! Victoria serves the community by taking out the facility trash each week! thank you, so much, Victoria for helping keep the neighborhood clean! 2019 Dates to Remember March 1 ______________________ SRHA Community & Facility Dues are Due March 9 _______________________ Brush & Lush Painting Party March 21_____________________ General Membership Meeting March 23______________________ Swim Team Registration Steeplechase Resident Homeowners Association 1925 Furlong Run Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.Steeplechase.org PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID LAWRENCEVILLE, GA PERMIT NO. 173 Stay Current With Steeplechase News! Read Your Neighborhood Newsletter! Or go to www.steeplechase.org February 2019 Edition