Stonegate Informer: January - March 2009 HOA Newsletter

Highlights from our HOA Newsletter!

1. Annual HOA Meeting announced for February 26th, 2009 from 7-9pm at the Caldwell Public Library! For all members!

2. Notice that past due accounts are now due. Delinquent accounts subject to 12% interest. Contact the Board or MGM to make payment arrangements. Link to Delinquency Policy

3. Direct Debit option available for payment of homeowner's dues. Sign up forms can be accessed by clicking on this link: Form for Direct Debit of HOA Dues. Please print out and bring to annual meeting on Feb. 26th or send to Stonegate Subdivision HOA, PO Box 1516, Caldwell, ID 83605

4. Link to Self Checklist of Covenants and Bylaws for Home Owners

5. Community Events:
a. Check out Caldwell Parks and Recreation for fun activities for the entire family - Ages 2-102! Martial Arts, Basketball, Travel, Arts & Crafts, Gymnastics, Cheer and more! 455-3060
b. Join the Caldwell Family YMCA to enjoy rock climbing, swimming, basketball, yoga, massage, and more. 454-9622
c. 63rd Annual Sweethearts Ball - Feb. 21, 2009, $25/couple; tickets available at www.idahotickets.com
d. Vintage Motorcycle Show - March 22, 2009 4-5pm at Caldwell Events Center

6. Child Internet Safety Tips:
a. Don't give out name, address, phone, school, or credit card to anyone online
b. Never arrange face to face meeting with anyone met online
c. Never go into chat rooms unless parents say it's okay
d. Never open emails from someone I don't know and never go to links I don't recognize
e. Always tell an adult if you see anything online that makes you feel uncomfortable

Check out www.McGruff.org and the National Crime Prevention Council for more information!

7. Preventing Car Theft & Burglary Tips
a. Never leave car running unattended
b. Never leave keys in ignition, inside locked garage or hide a key boxes
c. Always roll up windows and lock the car, even if parked in front of your home
d. Never leave valuables in plain view, even if car is locked.
e. Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas
f. If you must leave your key with valet, attendant or mechanic, only leave ignition key and make sure you are dealing with reputable firm.
g. In high theft areas the VIN should be etched on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid to make it difficult for a thief to market your stolen car parts.
h. Copy your license plate and VIN on a card and keep them with you. The police will need this information to take a report if you are a victim.
i. Many vehicles come with security systems from the factory and can be upgraded if you ask. The best choices are systems that shut off the fuel supply so that a car can't be started or driven.
If your vehicle is stolen, vandalized or burglarized, report it to the police immediately!

8. Proper Watering of your Lawn Tips
A. For Watering to Establish a Lawn:
- Water everyday 3 times a day for short periods of time (morning, early afternoon, and 6-7 at night). Set each zone to run for 5-15 minutes.
- Use this method until new grass is out of the ground to 3 inches tall.
- Turn off water for couple of days to let ground dry out before first mowing, and set mower blade to cut at 3 inches or higher.

B. For Watering to Maintain a Lawn:
- Water once or twice a week for long enough to soak the ground to 6 inches deep. This will encourage deep root growth.
- Do not water at night except during establishment. Night watering encourages fungus to start growing on the grass and can kill new grass. Grass fungus looks like straw colored spots on lawn in a circular pattern. It looks like the grass is dying from lack of water, but more water will just increase the fungus.
- If fungus is started, a fungicide application is needed to kill it out. Use great caution in applying fungicide.
- Remember - start your fertilizing regimen in February to avoid weed seeds from taking hold of your lawn. Try using the Scott's brand fertilizing system.

Communication:
- Do you have something you would like to see in our next issue?
- Do you have a community announcement?
- Would you be interested in being on the Park, Newsletter, Community Events or Neighborhood Watch Committees?
- If so email the board at stonegatesubdivision@gmail.com!