Message from the board president
Richard Hawkes
The holiday season for the residents of Cottonwood Palo Verde was kicked off December 5 with the annual Christmas Golf Cart Parade followed by the Christmas Show in the San Tan Ballroom. The traditional hot turkey soup and hot drinks at Palo Verde were enjoyed by the many festivity goers. Large crowds lined the streets from Palo Verde to the Cottonwood San Tan Ballroom to watch the parade of decorated golf carts. The evening ended with another fun Christmas Show, enjoyed by many grandchildren, their parents and grandparents.
2015 was an exciting year for facility upgrades in our beautiful community. The new Palo Verde short-game golf practice facility and the new sand bunker practice area at Cottonwood opened. A big step forward was made with the installation of the new media sound updates for all the venues in Cottonwood Palo Verde. The new sound system has brought a long needed enhancement to the San Tan Ballroom, the Cottonwood Bar and Grill, the Saguaro Room, the Palo Verde lounge, patio and restaurant, and the Golf Pro Shops in Cottonwood and Palo Verde. The addition of the Palo Verde patio shade cover has expanded our ability to enjoy outside dining and expanded the overall seating capacity for Palo Verde dining.
2016 should see more upgrades and additions to our active adult community. Among these are plans to add a new storage area to the Saguaro Room and a new entrance for storage in the San Tan Ballroom. The addition of three flagpoles at our Administrative Center will display the American flag, the Arizona state flag and a flag to recognize the contributions of our men and women in military service. A new fountain will replace the current one in the courtyard area outside the Cottonwood activity rooms and library. A plan is also being developed to add pavers and a new drainage system to the area surrounding tennis court No. 1 at Cottonwood. If everything continues to move forward, a plan for the expansion of our Fitness Center should be coming up for a homeowner vote sometime in 2016. This needed expansion will involve making the facility co-ed, vastly increase the current size and provide new equipment and space for the needs of our community now and in the future. The Health and Wellness Center Task Force has been working hard to put together a plan to meet our needs in a financially responsible way and we look forward to seeing the fruits of their labor.
The Board of Directors wish a Happy New Year to residents in Cottonwood Palo Verde. The Board and management thank you for your support. Your commitment to your community is what makes it such a special place to live.
Board of Director meeting minutes (unapproved) from November 24, 2015
Directors present: Rich Featherstone, Bud Jenssen, Anne Montgomery, Woody Neiman, Dick Norris and Mel Rasmussen
Directors absent: Richard Hawkes
Also present: General Manager Steve Nolan
Vice-President Dick Norris called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. He stated that he would be conducting the meeting in place of President Richard Hawkes who was on vacation. He stated that the meeting is being recorded for accuracy of the minutes.
Secretary Mel Rasmussen introduced and gave a short informational account of veteran U.S. Army Specialist Mike Schaffer. Mr. Schaffer announced that he is dedicating the Pledge of Allegiance today in honor of veteran B-17 WW II pilot Joe Hillebrand who should have been here today leading the Pledge, but could not due to his health. Mr. Schaffer asked that everyone keep Mr. Hillebrand in their thoughts and prayers. Mr. Schaffer then led the Pledge of Allegiance and was thanked for his military service.
Anne Montgomery made a motion, seconded by Bud Jenssen, to approve the October 28, 2015 Board Meeting Minutes.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Rich Featherstone, to approve the October 28, 2015 Annual Board Meeting Minutes.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE:
Dick Norris announced there would be no President’s Message today.
TREASURER’S REPORT:
Treasurer Woody Neiman presented the October 31, 2015 Financial Summary. A detailed report will be available for viewing in Homeowner Services.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Rich Featherstone made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery to approve the October 31, 2015 pre-audited Financial Report. Motion carried unanimously.
Woody Neiman then announced an addition to today’s agenda. Steve Nolan introduced Foundation President Elaine Kraemer. Ms. Kraemer introduced Foundation members Kelz Kelzenberg, Treasurer, Bob Carlson, Vice President and Keith Nelson, Secretary. Ms. Kraemer gave some background regarding the CWPV Foundation and how in 2014 a monetary pledge from former homeowner, John Dobson came to be. On behalf of former homeowner, John R. Dobson, the CWPV Foundation is giving back to the HOA $100,000 which was being held until the CWPV Foundation was formally established. The CWPV Foundation was thanked for the donation.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Architectural Compliance Committee: The report was given of its meetings held on November 3 and 17. They had 101 permit applications approved. The next meeting is December 2 in the A-7 Paint Room.
The committee has one recommendation for Board approval on today’s agenda under New Business: changes to BP 6-03 Common Rule Violations and Establishment of Fines. A brief explanation was given regarding the proposed changes. The committee has no recommendations for management.
Audit and Finance Committee: The report was given of its meeting on November 11.
Among the topics discussed were the monthly financials, an action plan for the budgeting process and a committee appointment. The next meeting is December 9 at 2:00 p.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The committee has one recommendation for the Board to approve the Audit and Finance Committee appointment of Ed Schauble to replace a former member. The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Communications Committee: Mike Schaffer and Joe Hillebrand were thanked for their military service. The report was given of its meeting on November 2. Among the topics discussed was that the November 20 issue of The Flyer would cover two weeks due to Thanksgiving; IT specialist Brian Mastin’s website statistics tutorial; the Ambassadors had 29 tours; discussion of committee members working with Brian Mastin to revamp the public area of the HOA website to target possible new homeowners. The next meeting is December 7 at 8:30 a.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Election Committee: Mike Schaffer was thanked for his military service. The report was given of its meeting on November 4. Among the topics discussed was the election of their officers. Meroe Haug and Ruthannis Rogers were thanked for agreeing to serve one year for their second term, in order to balance the committee. The next meeting is December 2 at 1:30 p.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The committee has one recommendation for the Board on today’s agenda in First Readings, to consider the Timing of Events for the Board Elections.
The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Facilities and Grounds Committee: The report was given of its meeting on November 2. Among the topics discussed were: officers elected; larger signage being reviewed; lighting needed in certain areas which will be discussed further in their next meeting; project updates.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or management.
The next meeting is December 7 at 9:00 a.m. (note new meeting time), in the Paint Room.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Food and Beverage Committee: The report was given of its meeting on November 5. Bernie Kowalski reported on behalf of Marty Neilson. Main topics discussed were: officers elected; financials, events that took place and the upcoming events. Leigh Torres and Marshall Reichert were thanked for their efforts. The next meeting is December 10 (note date change) at 9:00 a.m. at Palo Verde (note location change).
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Golf Committee: The report was given of its meeting on November 5. Board Liaison to Golf, Anne Montgomery, reported on behalf of Richard Hair. Among the topics discussed were: officers elected; managers gave their reports; comments from visitors were discussed; the committee will be getting a new representative to the committee for the Lady Niners. The next meeting is December 3 at 2:00 p.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Recreation Committee: The report was given of their meeting on November 2. Among the topics discussed were: election of officers; community walk date TBD and proceeds will go to CWPV Foundation, shades for bocce ball; Health and Wellness Center; Christmas Golf Cart Parade and Show; CWPV Foundation’s presentation to the committee and discussion of a workshop that Recreation will host on their behalf in the future. Elaine Kraemer of the Foundation was thanked for her and the Foundation’s efforts.
The next meeting is December 7 at 1:30 p.m. in the Phoenix Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Safety, Security and Access Committee: The report was given of its meeting on November 4. Among the topics discussed were: election of officers; hospitals are now allowing medical alert thumb drives; walking paths needing repair. The next meeting is December 2 at 10:00 a.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Health and Wellness Center Task Force: Rich Featherstone reported that the task force met twice in November. Among the topics discussed at the meetings were: a CWPV Foundation presentation; the website display of the basic drawings which show only a conceptual design with an idea of pricing and possible ideas which was overlaid on the current facility. It was emphasized that this is very preliminary and not a floor plan. Additional ideas discussed were multipurpose rooms; indoor running track; and a common kitchen for fitness and tennis. Our architect on retainer is gathering information on zoning requirements if we have to go to a two story building and the parking requirement that would need to be taken in consideration. It is hoped that a report of this information will be given at the next HWCTF meeting.
Anne Montgomery suggested that the website drawings be look at as a jigsaw puzzle, a frame assembled based on a list they task forces has provided, of wants and needs.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board.
The next meeting is December 8 at 2:00 p.m. in the Saguaro Room.
A question was asked and it was then explained that this project would have to go to a homeowner vote. It was stated that this question and information regarding the drawings will be clarified along in an upcoming issue of The Flyer.
PROJECT REPORTS:
CW and PV sound/video system upgrades: Dick Norris reported that CW system is hopefully going through its final tests. At PV, most of the speakers are in place but waiting for the patio cover to be completed.
Steve Nolan Reported on the following project(s):
PV maintenance lunchroom and office: The project is completed including the final inspection which has been filed. There will be an open house after over seeding.
PV patio shade: The project is developing quickly. Custom steel is being placed now. The contractor is choosing to work on Saturdays to expedite the project. Within a few weeks it will really take shape.
MANAGEMENT REPORT:
Steve Nolan wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving and gave the management report. He thanked Bill Todd and staff for the great condition of the golf courses.
DIRECTORS COMMENTS:
Bud Jenssen thanked Mike Schaffer for his military service and police force service and thanked Elaine Kraemer and the CWPV Foundation Board for their presentation.
Mel Rasmussen: None
Dick Norris: None
Woody Neiman thanked Joe Hillebrand and Mike Schaffer for their military service. He reminded everyone about attending the upcoming Christmas Golf Cart Parade and Show and wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving.
Anne Montgomery wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving.
Rich Featherstone thanked Joe Hillebrand and Mike Schaffer for their military service and reminded everyone to mark their calendar that the Crystal Awards banquet is Sunday, March 6. He congratulated Leigh Torres on her 11 years anniversary in Food and Beverage.
CAPITAL RESERVE REPLACEMENT FUND REQUESTS:
Dick Norris explained the Capital Reserve Replacement Fund request, Item A.
Bud Jenssen made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve replacement of 1,000 tons of 3/8” pink coral rock for golf course maintenance, for the low bid of $10,045 from The Source Sand & Gravel.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments. A question was raised from the Board asking if these were old WIN reserve numbers. It was answered, yes.
There was a homeowner comment regarding getting items on the agenda. It was explained that it is the Board’s agenda. It was also explained that this homeowner’s comments would be appropriate during the Homeowner Comments portion of the meeting, since it has nothing to do with item presently being discussed. There were no further comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Dick Norris explained the Capital Reserve Replacement Fund request, Item B.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Bud Jenssen, to approve replacement of two greens mowers for golf course maintenance, for the low bid of $64,627.73 from Simpson Norton. The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Dick Norris explained the Capital Reserve Replacement Fund request, Item C.
Mel Rasmussen made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve replacement of a Toro Workman HDX for common area maintenance, for the low bid of $23,545.61 from Simpson Norton. The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
PV GATE RESERVE FUND:
None
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND REQUESTS:
Dick Norris explained the Capital Improvement Fund request, Item A.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve the purchase of three flag poles for the Administration Center for the low bid of $13,990 from Ken’s Sign Service, plus a 10 percent contingency, for a total cost of $15,389. The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTION FUND:
None
OLD BUSINESS:
None
NEW BUSINESS:
Dick Norris explained New Business, Item A.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve the appointment of Ed Schauble to fill a vacancy on the Audit and Finance Committee. The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Dick Norris explained New Business, Item B.
Bud Jenssen made a motion, seconded by Mel Rasmussen, to approve minor revisions to BP. 6-03 Common Rule Violations and Establishment of Fines. The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments. An audience member asked that the revisions be explained. The revisions were explained. There was discussion. There were no further comments. Motion carried unanimously.
FIRST READINGS:
Dick Norris stated that the following will be put into First Readings for the month of December:
A. 2016 Annual Board Election Timing of Events.
B. BP. 9-07 Perimeter Fences – Painting, Structural and Landscape Maintenance.
HOMEOWNER COMMENTS:
Comment regarding the CWPV Foundation sending out a brochure to the CWPV community.
Comment regarding rumors about the speed bumps at the 16th green.
Comment about more stop signs needed.
Comment regarding more weapon signs needed.
The meeting adjourned at 3:59 p.m.
Upcoming events
Ladies Coffee
It’s time for our fun and informative Ladies Coffees to start up again. The coffees are the first Wednesdays of the months October-April in the San Tan Ballroom starting at 10:30 a.m. The cost is only $3 for cookies, hot coffee, hot tea and iced tea along with great conversation with your friends and your new friends Tickets are sold at the door. We also have great give-a-ways. January’s Coffee includes a Calle Rose fashion show and sale! Our Ladies Coffee is opened for all Sun Lakers and guests.
Upcoming dates are: January 6, February 3, March 2 and April 6.
TAD Concert Tickets
There are only 3:00 p.m. show tickets left for the January, February and March 2016 TAD Concerts. Shows include tribute bands for the Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Bee Gees, Reba McEntyre, the Eagles and George Strait. Tickets are all $20.
Line Dancing and Dinner
Come join Palo Verde on Saturday, January 9 when Janet Wallace will be performing and teaching line dances throughout the night! Entertainment goes from 5:30-8:00 p.m. They will also be serving a full dinner menu, starting at 4:30 p.m. as well as an optional country dinner pairing, which includes fried chicken, mashed potatoes, asparagus, with peach cobbler for dessert; $16 plus tax and gratuity. Call for reservations at 480-895-1981.
Meet Your Neighbors
Palo Verde will be serving dinner family style on Saturday, January 23 from 4:30-8:00 p.m. for only $16 plus tax and gratuity. Dinner starts with hot rolls and butter and fresh berry salad, followed by beef brisket, beef gravy, mashed potatoes and glazed carrots. For dessert you’ll enjoy apple crisp with whipped cream and bourbon caramel. Don’t miss the fun. Call for reservations at 480- 895-1981.
Valentine’s Party
I love you day is just around the corner. Mark your calendars now for a beautiful dinner/dance in the San Tan Ballroom on Sunday, February 14.
Impersonators 2016 Show Oh Canada
On Wednesday, March 15 the Impersonators will take the stage in the San Tan Ballroom. The performers will be doing a tribute to Celine Dion, Michael Buble, Shania Twain and Paul Anka called Oh Canada. The 7:00 p.m. show sold out in two weeks so we’ve opened a 3:00 p.m. show. Tickets are still only $20 and are going fast.
Dancing with the Stars
Our 2016 Dancing with the Stars show will move to Friday, February 19 and Saturday February 20. Tickets are on sale now and only $20 for this wonderful night of fun and dancing. Both nights’ shows will start at 7:00 p.m. with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. Names of the six Sun Lakes Dancers are Dee Hollevoet, Wanda Johnson, Judy Latronico, Bernie Kowalski, Zach Whaley and Billie Yoblonski. All six dancers will dance both Friday and Saturday with a different winner for each night.
Free Skin Cancer Screening
Dr. Laura Arce of Radiant Complexions Dermatology Clinic will be conducting a free skin cancer screening in Cottonwood’s Phoenix Room (A-9) from 8:00 a.m.–noon on Wednesdays. All Sun Lakers are invited. No appointment needed; the doctor will see you on a first come basis. Dates are January 13, February 10, March 16 and April 6.
Free Exercise Equipment Classes
Personal trainer Deryk Garmanian and his assistant/homeowner, Brenda Waara will be instructing, at no cost, a weight room and equipment orientation class in the Ladies Fitness Center for both men and women (at this time) on the following Wednesdays:
January 20, February 17, March 16, April 20, May 18, June 15, July 20, August 17, September 21, October 19, November 16 and December 21. Please sign up at Homeowner Services. If there are less than three students, Deryk will cancel the class and contact those who have signed up.
Bicycle Repair in Cottonwood
Every Friday, Two-Wheel Jones Bicycle Repair will be in Cottonwood’s east parking lot, next to the tennis courts from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Now, when your bicycle needs to be repaired, you won’t have to find a way to get it in your vehicle. The repair shop will come to you.
Upcoming Traveling Tours through Free Spirit
To book any of these trips, call Free Spirit Vacations at 480-926-5547 or e-mail [email protected]. Please remind them that you are a Cottonwood Palo Verde Homeowner. Event information flyers can be found at Cottonwood’s Homeowner Services.
2016
January 9 – Boyce Thompson and Casa Grande Ruins
January 26-29 – SoCal Gardens and Museums
January 27 – Barrett Jackson
January 30 – Verde Canyon Railroad
January 30-February 7 – Tropical Caribbean aboard Holland America ms Nieuw Amsterdam
February 2 – Dolly Steamboat
February 9 – Rockin’ 9 Mystery Tour and Lunch
February 9-February 11 – Rocky Point Three Day Getaway
February 12 – Wild West Saloon Crawl
February 26-February 29 – San Diego Deluxe
March 1-March 4 – Death Valley