MORE GROWTH

As part of the road build through to the west entrance, we note some new cul-de-sacs being hewn out of the hills.










Official Vehicle named for back road.

BACK ROAD PROGRESSES

Here's a shot from the top of SO Blvd and Musket Rim. "I feel the earth move." - Carole King.

DESSERT

Bob,

I was curious to know if you could post an entry on the blog in reference to the delicious Peach/Blueberry Cobbler.

I was curious to know if you could inquire who brought it and if the recipe is available.

Thanks
Christy Sabo

You bet Christy,

Heck, there were MANY outstanding desserts. Anybody want to post theirs?

WE HAVE A WINNER!

Erin Feller correctly identified Jim DiNicola as the "mystery person" at the HOA party. She won $50, and Jim wins a second picture posting, shown here.

GUARD BRIAN EVANS

Name: Brian James Evans
Age: 23
Marital Status: Single

Bio: I was born here in Austin and have lived in the surrounding areas for most of my life. I served our country for four years in the ARMY. I have served two tours in Iraq acting as a medic for the infantry. I am also currently in the National Guard and quite possibly have an opportunity to be the youngest medical instructor in the Texas National Guard. On my off time I enjoy sitting at home watching movies, going to the lake, spending time with friends and family and hunting and fishing.

(HEAD) GUARD COTTRIL DICKERSON

What a pleasure to see this smiling and genuine greeting welcoming you home!


Cottril Alvin Dickerson born Jan 19, 1973 in Conway Arkansas.

As he puts it, "My pride and joy (are) wife Janet (L.J.), three daughters - Yevonne 11, Diamond 10, Breann 2, and my only son Brendan 6. I've lived in Texas since 1987. My Dad was in the army and he retired here so I stayed as well. In my very little spare time I enjoy sports, movies, and video games such as Madden and NCAA football."

PICTURES OF RESIDENTS AND LANDOWNERS

They are now posted. To see the pictures, click here! More as we meet new people and collect those who couldn't make the party! You know who you are.

HOME AND LAND OWNERS BLOCK PARTY

Land and homeowners came together at the Jordan/Muench home and the food, beverages and camaraderie flowed on a perfect evening. Jennifer Horne, social committee chair, did a great job!

We now have a permanent place for our resident and land owner pictures so we all can begin to better recognize the faces we see out walking/jogging, at the mail boxes, or maybe at Starbucks. We will add to the collection whenever possible.

TRASH NEXT WEEK delayed

Due to the holiday MONDAY, trash day will be THURSDAY.

MOTHER'S HELPER LOOKING...

Hello neighbors, I received this info through my children's school and didn't know if any of you might be looking for summer help. Teresa Duncan

We're leaving town for the summer and our special babysitter/mother's helper is looking for a family to help care for in our absence. She has experience caring for three children at a time (ages 7, 4 and 1), will help prepare meals, tidy the house, kid's laundry, and other child-related tasks. She is a UT senior, 22 years old, has a reliable car and a cellphone. She is looking for something 30 + hours per week. She is centrally located, but will consider commuting for the right opportunity.

Please call me, Monica at 469-9794 if you are interested! She has been with us for almost 3 years and she is a very special person. She knows how to keep a rhythm in the household, will honor the no-media custom happily, can prepare healthful foods, and even incorporate children in her tasks around the house when possible.

Monica Flores
Parent of Maya, Alfred and Juliette

GREAT JOB/ WORK AT HOME

Forgive this momentary hijacking of the blog. I have a great job opening for an outgoing personality who wants to work from the home. You decide how many hours you want to devote to it. For more, go here.

7000

This blog just passed 7000 views. That's amazing when you consider how few people actually own land or live here. They keep coming back. And many others check it out, it seems. I'll try to keep improving with more pictures and deeper news. Certainly as more people move in, there will be more to discuss.

---

5/31 marks the start of road construction on 71 and 620. The impatient will suffer. I am one of the afflicted. Mercy!

PAR-TEEEEE!!!

Don't forget: Face to Face Meet Your neighbors Party this coming Monday: 5PM @ 4821 Mondenedo Cove - the (new) Jordan/Muench House.
Dessert Potluck!
Bring your favorite dessert to share… RSVP – jenniferhorne234@hotmail.com

WHAT IS IT?

This is on one of the lots that's technically NOT Spanish Oaks but is landlocked by Spanish Oaks. It's the land beside the huge 'chateau' on the backside of Musket Rim.

The thing sits on a concrete base, so it appears permanent. Must be 25 feet high.

What do you think it is? Compounding the mystery, the concrete pad adjacent has several areas which are baffling... not a pool, maybe a sport court, not a house pad, apparently.

This THING is almost as high as the roof of the structure/house being rebuilt beside it.

A missle silo?

A bad statue?

A mothership?

A homing beacon?

Water (runoff) mitigation tank? (But you'd have to pump in at the top, wouldn't you?)

Miniature golf hazard?

Echo chamber?

Lawn art?

Hard to tell. Certainly not supported by our drc (and wouldn't have to be), unless they're orbiting another planet.

Some suggestions rolled in:
In Kentucky it's a still.
In Germany a wort chiller.
In Iowa an ethanol plant.
In Pennsylvania a cooling tank for a solar reactor.
In Texas a storage tank for BioWillie diesel. Gotta fill up them Hummers.
In France a wine fermenter.
In Travis County water storage for their AG tax exemption goats.
In Spanish Oaks a Subwoofer to challenge the best audiophiles within
shouting distance.

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD construction

Construction continues on the "expressway to the other entrance" - okay, it's not really an expressway, but clearly work IS progressing.

A funny? aside: Today one of the guards was warning people returning from work to watch out for the loose cow. Where's that wrangler when you need him? Wouldn't you love to see a longhorn in your neighbor's pool?

NOW THAT'S EXCLUSIVE

Or generic. An 'unmarked' east entrance. Days ago we had a "SPANISH OAKS" where you now see a blank. Once again, no prior notice, not with our weekly HOA E mails and efforts to inform better. What's next? Maybe this will appear on the wall somehow.

Who knows?

NEW ENTRY FENCE

As you whip the SUV into the turn over the creek on the east entrance, you'll see they've taken down the old white board fence which was looking a little worn, and replaced it with a nice split rail number that looks more... organic. It simply fits the space better.

GOLF KUDO

This month's golf digest has Spanish Oaks as the best Golf course community in the southwest. Not too bad. When the club is done and all the improvements are complete it will be world class. Even for the non golf property owners, news like this just improves values and prestige for our properties.

Good work Discovery... Jim Lay

read more in Golf Digest here.

BEE CAVE SUMMER KICK-OFF

Bee Cave Summer Kick-Off

Event Time - 10:00 AM
Location - Village of Bee Cave
13333-A Hwy 71 West
Bee Cave, TX 78738

Description Come join the Village of Bee Cave in Kickin-off the summer from 10:00a.m. - 2:00p.m.

Sign up for the Summer Reading Program.

Safety Demonstrations provided by:
Bee Cave Police Department
Hudson Bend Fire Department
Austin / Travis County EMS
LCRA

Moonwalk for kids of all ages to enjoy. Let’s start the summer off safely at the Village of Bee Cave!

The Kick-off will be held at the Bee Cave Public Library and the surrounding grounds.

Contact Barbara Hathaway: 512-767-6624
Brooke Huerta: 512-767-6643.

Price: FREE

BEE CAVE

Here's a great look at architect renderings of the NEW new shopping center - also a list of stores in the existing new shopping center.

GOOD DOG

Anyone want a registered boxer that is 4 years old? The owner says he is a
good dog and has his papers. The owner sold his home and doesn't have a
place for him. He is giving him away to a good family.

E me at rwood24@Austin.rr.com for more (it's not ours)

LOOK... UP IN THE SKY...

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a, a, Paraglidermotorthing... apparently launched and landed at the top of Musket Rim. I saw the man some months ago. Still wonder who it is, and if the story/legend of the rocket backpack is true or Spanish Oaks urban legend.

HOMES STATUS REPORT

11 In Design Review
35 Approved or Under Construction
48 Completed
41 Occupied

CALM AFTER THE STORM

That was some gully washer last night!

Wind was swirling around our house so hard it really did look like a wind devil full of rain! I'll bet we couldn't see 50 feet!

Thankfully, no serious damages we could spot this morning. Glad the hail was small. Large hail is trouble!

We did hear from a neighbor about a fire truck that came up S.O. Blvd with siren on at about 7:30PM, only to sit at the gate for 20 minutes. Anybody know about that?

A quick drive around the neighborhood shows minor damage to many properties... old trees down or branches off (especially dead trees), newly planted trees blown over, some construction fences down, and traces of an amazing amount of water which must have flowed through the gullies, much much wider than the pipes that feed them.

I'll bet a ton of mulch is missing now.

Landscapers will be pleased. More work!

ILLUMINATIONS

My gosh, they really have extended the landscaping lighting down toward the entrance. We were travelling east last night so couldn't appreciate the full effect, but even from that direction there was less of a dark hole to drive into. Nicely done, DLC!

------

We heard that two properties on Musket Rim now are competing at $699K. That's for dirt.
Also, a 3.41 acre lot in SO for $995K. Our tax assessment is up considerably this year. I'll bet yours is too.

------

Anybody know how to calm a 9 year old dog who is suddenly afraid of thunderstorms?

WE DON'T NEED NO STINKIN' TICKETS!!!

This report from one of our intel experts:

Motorists who use the Shops At The Galleria thoroughfare to avoid traffic
between 620 and Bee Cave Rd. are subject to being ticketed by The
Village of Bee Cave's finest.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

If you have ever come down the hill from the east in the dark, you have probably had those few nervous moments while you look for the turn. It's under the flashing yellow light - but exactly where?

Well, hopefully a fix is in the works as over the next few weeks Discovery Land will extend the tree/landscaping lighting closer to 71 to make the turn more obvious.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Donald Abrams, your HOA owner-rep, and I, have been touring the neighborhood on Wednesday evenings to meet and greet neighbors and tell them about our private weekly E mails of info and other items not ready for blogging. It was been wonderful to meet many of you and we can't help notice the surprise of 'there's somebody at the door!' which must be an artifact of living in a gated community where visitors are announced and anticipated.

If you have a concern, by all means contact Donald and he will replay your feelings to the most appropriate party. His data is on the right margin of the blog.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

When I can make it happen, I hope to begin running profiles of our guards along with their pictures so you'll know more of the man or woman behind the wave.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Please be sure you have authorized weekly E mail news by sending a request to rwood24@Austin.rr.com Some of the material you'll receive will be published in the blog later, some won't, as it's simply not for general consumption. But be in the know - get on the list.

Speaking of lists, Pam Chandler should be E mailing directories to owners any minute now.

PRIVATE E MAIL UPDATES

As all blogs are, this is open to the world.

Donald Abrams, our home owner representative on the board, has asked me to put out a weekly information E mail/newsletter to residents and property owners who wish to be included. This is an opt-in and any one requesting inclusion will be compared to the master list of owners to be sure the information is private.

The blog will continue with general information.

Donald and I have begun visiting with residents to introduce ourselves and deliver some good news personally.

But there are many property owners off site, and we will undoubtedly miss some residents. So, if you would like to receive this inside info, please e me with your request to be put on the weekly e mail list: rwood24@Austin.rr.com

Your e mail addresses will be kept confidential.

Please indicate if you are a home owner/resident or property owner.

Thanks!

MORE NEW NEIGHBORS

Hello everyone we are the Leibl's. We live at 11901 Musket Rim at the top of the hill on the right. I have just found the blog and think it is a great way to informally keep everyone update and be able to express your self quickly.

I think having some social events early as the community is just getting started is a great way to help creating a fun place to live. Both myself and wife Annette would be happy to assist in any way.

I was also wondering if there are any POKER players out here that would like to start a poker night. If there are any Texas hold-em players I would be happy to host the first game.

You may contact us at dennisleibl@yahoo.com

Looking forward to meeting everyone.

Dennis

NEW NEIGHBORS COMING

I have enjoyed reading the blog you manage on Spanish Oaks. My husband John and I, along with our three children, will be moving to the house on Spanish Oaks Club Blvd) in August. We close on the property in mid-June, but we spend all of our summers at our lake house in Michigan. We currently live in a very urban suburb of Chicago. While it is very urban, it actually is a small village where everyone sends their children to the public school, all shop at the same stores, go to the same churches, etc. There is always someone out walking their dog, pushing a stroller or on a bike. One of the things that attracted us to Spanish Oaks was the sense of community we kept reading about. From the sounds of things, it sounds like it will be a good decision for us. Other than an address, we don't have anything to add to a neighborhood directory yet, but if possible, I would like to be kept updated on area developments, especially if you decide to post things off the blog that may not be available to the general public. In the meantime, I look forward to reading the postings, although the snake/coyote postings have me a little freaked.

We look forward to meeting you when we eventually make our way down there in August.

Valorie Doyle

Lakeway growth parallels Bee Cave Growth

This from an American Statesman story about Lakeway growth... Read More

In the nearby Village of Bee Cave, Taylor Woodrow Inc., one of the world's largest home builders, announced plans for Falconhead West, a 375-acre development with homes to be built on bluffs and priced between the high $200,000s to the $900,000s.

Bee Cave, already home to a Target and Home Depot, also is adding retail development, including the Shops at the Galleria, a center with numerous big-box stores, including Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse.

Across the street, work has started on the Hill Country Galleria, a 1-million-square-foot regional mall anchored by a Dillard's and a Barnes and Noble. Scheduled to open in the summer of 2007, the project will include apartments, offices, townhomes and a movie theater.

E. H. "Bubba" Breazeale, a real estate agent with Turnquist Partners Realtors Inc. who has lived in Lakeway for 30 years, predicts even more commercial growth is destined to come along RM 620. Once a country road, it's now a five-lane corridor traveled by more than 23,000 cars a day.

"They seem to be developing every nook and cranny," Breazeale said. "I doubt many people thought it would grow this much."

MEETING NEIGHBORS

Donald Abrams and I made some rounds of the residents last night till dark, to fill them in on the home owner's association board and Donald's representation as one of us. We have many more homes to go.

I am heading the information committee (big surprise, huh?) and as such we will attempt to engage residents to a much greater extent than communication has existed till now. As I wrote before, this info will be much more private than what's here on the Blog, which will remain more a general mix of lighter fare (since the public can see it.) Better communication will help bring us together and ease what may have been certain concerns or tensions.

Donald's goal is to bring much more sense of community into our neighborhood, and from what I've seen, he's perfect for the job!

Note his new E mail: dabrams@spanish-oaks.com

We hope to increase socialization among residents and help grow this beautiful area into an equally impressive neighborhood of friends. Some of the distances between occupied lots tends to preclude that without a catalyst. Donald is that catalyst.

And since he didn't like the picture I took of him and posted below, I will change it. Have a look. Scroll down.

TRAFFIC LIGHT

Yesterday, HOA President Steve Yetts, Pam Chandler, Don Bosse, Joe Heimlich and homeowner rep Donald Abrams met with County Commissioner Gerald Dougherty and a woman from Rep. Terry Keel’s office for an hour and a half. They discussed the traffic light, road re-configurations and other safety considerations. More detail will follow in an e-mail to interested home and lot owners.

Note: We are almost at the point when certain information will have to be sent directly to owners rather than post in a public forum. The information is more private than sensitive, but in an effort to do the right thing, this seems to be the best course of action. More on that and how to be certain you are on the list in the very near future, here on the blog.

The blog will continue with general information and communication configured as it is now.

AND BABY MAKES THREE

The Vinsons on Overlook Pass welcome James IV into the world. Welcome James IV and congratulations to the proud parents!

COMING SOON

New home frame for concrete pour! Impressive!

Better and increased communication. You will be receiving E mails - perhaps weekly -which bring you up to date with changes or happenings within our community. I will include this info here on the blog if appropriate. (Some info is for home/landowners only and the blog is public.)

Donald Abrams and I met the other day and he told me many exciting details of how Discovery Land is behind the HOA and he will use our new E mail as a way to give you a better sense of not only what's happening, but our community.

LATEST STATS from this site.

5,303 page loads, by 2,994 unique visitors, 2,029 returning visitors.

Thank you for your support.

The Donald, Homeowners Rep on the Board

I asked Donald Abrams to give us a little background. I think you'll agree we are lucky to have him represent us.

Why did you step up to join the board?

I have always felt that public service is something inherent in me. In prior communities that I had resided in, I wanted to make the situation as best as it could be. When Shirley and I bought in Spanish Oaks we joined the vision that was offered. I want to make sure that the vision is carried out and that each homeowner has a voice. Therefore, I felt that this was the least that I could do to ensure that we are heard, that the vision comes true and that living here is all that we want it to be.


Have you met with the rest of the board yet? (How often do they meet?)

Actually, as I write this I am preparing for my first meeting with the Board today. At that meeting a timetable for future meeting will be discussed.

What is your sense about how S.O. is progressing?

With the change to Discovery, we have stumbled a bit. However, I do not think that we are very far from the original course chartered. I am seeing some things that are very positive. Some light (not nearly enough) at the entrance, changes to the landscaping and fencing protection to the lots that have been built out. We need to improve the communication to the members so that everyone knows what is happening and why and how to deal with any other setbacks that might arise.

What do you see as the major issues facing us all?

Safety. The single largest one is the stop light at 71. We have a meeting scheduled with some of the county leadership. However, we all know that there are a number of tangents to this issue that are, if you will pardon the pun, stoplights in the road. Ranging from space to salamanders to money; all has put the brakes on this topic. I know we were all told stories of any month now, and that is not the truth. When our security vehicle is rear ended we know that there are issues. I will make sure that we continue to do all that we can and that every one has all the information concerning this topic. This will make our little slice of the hill country the place every one wants to be. We all have to be cognizant of those things that keep our property values where we want them to be.

Are there any opportunities for residents to become involved in ad hoc committees?

At this point, I cannot answer that question. However, I believe that I will have an answer by this weekend.

Can you give us a feeling for any timetables for improvements, builds, etc., from Discovery Land's plans?

Not as of 10:07 Tuesday April 18. However, I personally plan to knock on every door and introduce myself and leave my e-mail address with each homeowner. Hopefully I can get this done by the end of the month. This is easy to say when there are less than 100 homes on property. But I will make myself available to each homeowner. My cell is 512 750 5900. I have no problem with anyone calling to chat, kvetch, complain, point out an issue or whatever to make this a better community. I cannot guarantee that the answer is the one that you will want to hear, but there will be an answer as soon as I can deliver one.

Anything else you'd like to say?

I am pretty stoked about living in Spanish Oaks. I have met a good number of my neighbors and have made and am developing more friends than I could have imagined. Harry and Faye are a hoot! Heather and Jim are super. This makes me think that for all the folks I have not met yet, there are even more good people to be friends with. We can develop a social circle that the neighbors can participate in, (I am a big fan of pot luck block parties) and I think that the SOHOA can sponsor events for the neighborhood that will make everyone proud to have the acorn sticker on the windshield.

I look forward to more time on this blog, more time speaking with all of my new friends, neighbors and those who will be, because I have yet to meet them, my new friends and neighbors.

If there are any concerns, questions, issues please feel free to call me.

Donald Abrams

FUTURE NEIGHBORS

Hi Bob,

I just wanted to say hi and let you know that I totally enjoy reading the blog. Gary and I are very impatiently awaiting the construction of our home, which will most likely begin sometime next year. It is still in the planning stages. We are waiting for two more kids to graduate high school in May before we really get going on it.

We are not world record holders of any kind (unless you could qualify fine wine consumption as an event). But hopefully we will bring something of value to the community!

When school is out in June, we are going to put our house on the market, and begin the exodus to Austin as soon as it sells. We are looking for a place to live temporarily (I hate to mention the apartment monster, but it might be an option for us if the timing is right).

We do not plan to cut down any Spanish Oak trees as long as we can help it. We are thinking Hill country Tuscan for the house and want our home to complement the neighborhood beautifully so don’t worry about us spoiling things! We are hearing a lot about Musket Rim houses on your blog. This is cool because our lot is #7 on Musket Rim, which is at the top of the turnaround facing the preserve next door to, I believe, the Pigfords? Is that right? Last time we looked at our property, the house just west of us had poured the foundation. Is that the one story people are saying looks so nice and “floats above the property?” COOL! That is what we want too.

We wanted a social membership to the club but we will make our own social activities if they don’t want us, and to be honest, we really couldn’t care less if they don’t. Hopefully we will fit in just fine.

We look forward to living at Spanish Oaks, and we are glad that we have a way to keep abreast of the goings on until we get there. Thanks for making the blog!

Cathi Rustmann

ANOTHER SNAKE FOUND - COPPERHEAD !!!

Hi Bob,

I happened upon a snake early this morning. Luckily it was dead and the dog and flashlight spotted it before I landed on it. It was on Musket Rim around Mondadebo Cove -- not sure on the correct spelling. I sent some pics via Shutterfly. It could possibly be a copperhead, or just an imposter. Maybe somebody could identify it so we can all be better educated.

Lori













The copperhead is a small hemotoxic reptile classed closely with the water moccasin. The Broad-Banded subspecies is found in western/central Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas living in both lowlands and hilly areas.

It is characterized by the rich "new penny" copper colors with wide alternating bands that extend completely around even the underside.

They exhibit a tenacious personality when approached and are extremely well camouflaged in nature so that they are usually quite close at hand when finally spotted by those in the field.

Thanks to Lori Bailes

Sure looks like a copperhead to me, but Malcolm Pigford is our blog snake expert --- Malcolm?

Confirmed copperhead. BEWARE!

ANOTHER SNAKE FOUND IN A GARAGE

Different garage, different species. (thamnophis proximus) Not poisonous. But warn your kids and watch your pets! Sure as shootin' there are some of the 4 poisonous-in-Texas species out there somewhere.

And in tonight's news... A WOMAN WAS BITTEN BY A RATTLESNAKE in a potted plant at the Lakeway Home Depot.

ANOTHER WRECK AT EAST ENTRANCE

Three cars or trucks involved. No word on injuries or who was involved or even how it happened. Thanks to Lori Bailes for the report and pictures.




If you happen by an accident at our entrance and can get some space to maybe snap some pictures on your cell phone, please do. It can add up as evidence to present to those who can maybe finally address our safety issues.




One thing we can count on - with the apartments going in, this community building out, and the development farther west up 71 (1800 homes if built!) - and the two new shopping centers PLUS the build out of the one we have now, traffic is going to be MUCH worse in the years to come.




Be careful!

STROKE

Trish Hamilton forwards this helpful piece:

RECOGNIZING A STROKE:

Thank God for the sense to remember the "3" steps.

Read and Learn!

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

S *Ask the individual to SMILE.

T *Ask the person to TALK, to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE. (Coherently) (i.e. . It is sunny out today)

R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out their tongue. if the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke.

If he or she has trouble with any one of these tasks, call 911 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this e-mail sends it to ten people, you can bet at least one life will be saved .

JACK VISITS

It's that time of the year! This bad boy or benign boy (and non golf-club member) replaced Terri's car today in the garage. I will name him Jack Abramoff.







With the help of neighbor Malcolm Pigford, this snake has been identified. Eastern Hognose Snake: Heterodon platirhinos: A shy and harmless snake.

EVENT OFFERED

David Tennant and I would love to host/co-host an event for the neighborhood.

We haven't had the opportunity to meet everyone and feel that this is the right time of year to have a party -- before it gets too hot!

If anyone is interested in co-hosting or has any ideas on some other social events for the neighborhood, please feel free to comment.

Amanda Tennant

-----

i like the idea of our own spanish oaks country club/social club facilitated thru the blog.
yes, we'll participate in a get-together event if organized ...and maybe even host one down the road.

Tim Sabo

-----

This was input as a comment, but since that's much less prominent, I also included it here a as POST. Remember, please, that if you wish to POST vs COMMENT, you should E mail me the text at the address to the right top of the column: rwood24@Austin.rr.com Thanks! Bob Wood

HOMEOWNERS vs GOLF CLUB MEMBERS

Please post:

Food for thought: Out of the 37 occupied homes only 12 are members. Rest assured non-golfers you are not the minority.

... Lori Bailes

BARTON CREEK IN SPRING GLORY

Picture taken from above Barton Creek Preserve adjacent to Spanish Oaks

Spanish Oaks Dead Letter Office

PAM CHANDLER ANSWERS

I had posed some questions of Pam. Here is her reply (along with my queries synopsized).

Sprinklers in one area were on all day while it rained.
Re: the sprinklers, the rain sensors malfunctioned and were being checked out yesterday. However, due to the rain we've had and what we expect, the irrigation has been turned off for this week and probably next week.

Realtors unable to access area?
Per the access control policy I sent out to all owners in February, there is no problem with realtors getting in to Spanish Oaks, as long as we are notified of a showing. The Board has adopted a policy that open houses may only be held on a "by invitation" basis; this is to maintain the integrity of our neighborhood so that we don't have 200 or more "tire kickers" in Spanish Oaks every Sunday afternoon. By and large, anyone looking for property in this price range isn't going to be out visiting open houses on Sunday afternoon.

Muddy streets.
Discovery is still paying for street cleaning, and I'm sure it will be done next week once the rains have stopped for awhile.

What is the mechanism by which our homeowner rep on the board interfaces with them and HOA?
Donald will be interfacing with me on a daily basis, and with the Board periodically. He is more than willing to take calls from homeowners to discuss their issues, and has already begun to receive same.

I just mailed out quarterly billings, and included a kind of "update letter" with it, so that should cover most questions.

Hope this addresses your concerns, but don't hesitate to contact me with any further questions.

Regards,
Pam

Thanks to Pam for the clarifications and details.

And from her Letter To Homeowners:

East Gate (side) landscape improvements to begin.
Indeed, there are several areas on the Club Blvd which look like something is underway.

Park work to begin in 30 to 45 days.
Wonder what they have in mind? Certainly some of these islands have been impacted by construction, esp. trucks.

Supply your data for the homeowners directory.

Foundation for West Side Guard House will be poured next week.

And Pam says she's planning some events for Spring and Summer. This makes it appear that there might be something possible for all, not just golf club members.

PICTURE IDEA

Donald Abrams had what I think could be a great idea - that we post names/pictures of residents here so that neighbors can place the faces with the names when we see others out and about. For obvious reasons, and due to the fact that the world can access this site, I don't think children should be included. But if you send me your pictures, I will post them, or even build another blog where they'll sit, with sufficient response. I'll even offer to take them for you if we can coordinate a good time.

Or maybe the directory can include them?

From LORI BAILES

I am going to attempt to try to clear up some misunderstandings.

Discovery has not said there would never be social memberships. Some of their clubs do have social memberships. But, right now there is not anything to be a social member to. We are eating in a tent and the kitchen facilities are in a portable building. Don't get me wrong, this has not prevented them from making some amazing meals, but it is certainly not an ideal setup.

The swim center and fishing hole are both going to be part of the HOA, not the club. Steve was eager to talk about this and had all the boards to show this off at the HOA meeting, but it didn't seem like that many people were paying attention by the end of the meeting. They should be opening next summer 2007 as will the road to the club.

The Austin Tennis Academy is not part of Spanish Oaks. Anybody can get a membership there.

Hopefully more people will fill out and turn in their questionares for the directory. As of yesterday, Pam had only recieved 20 and was hoping for more before she compiles the info.

Spanish Oaks did not change it's name. The golf club has always been called Spanish Oaks Golf Club and the community has always been called Spanish Oaks at Bee Cave.

Yes the lot owners/residents are not going to be invited to any more of the events through the golf club -- unless you are invited by a member. Why not just be happy for the invites in the past instead of complaining about not being invited now. The golf club is separate. If we are to have social events for residents it needs to be done through the HOA. Which also means it will be paid for through our assessments -- the past freebies were paid for by the golf club. Is anyone interested in heading up some social events?

Hope this clarifies some of the misunderstandings that were festering out there.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact Pam Chandler.

Lori Bailes

HOUSEKEEPER RECOMMENDED

Do You Need a Housekeeper? Monica Espinoza has Mondays and Thursdays available. For an estimate please contact her daughter Maria @698-8493 or son Carlos @740-7898

Monica has been cleaning for Teresa Duncan on Musket Rim for nearly a year and has proven to be very reliable, thorough, hardworking, honest and kind. I whole heartily recommend her services. For any questions of referral, feel free to call Teresa @ 351-9088

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP DESIRED

Hello Bob,

On the subject of club membership and exclusion from activities...we would certainly welcome the opportunity for a "social membership". In fact, when we were first shopping lots/homes in this area, we were told that this would probably happen when the swim facility was complete. The swim center was a big part of our decision to buy here. There are other clubs here in Austin that offer separate memberships which often include tennis, swimming and club/spa facilities.

It is a bit awkward that our builder has asked us why we don't attend the Thursday night happy hour, saying "...everyone is there". I guess this means we aren't everyone! Which is sometimes a compliment. Interestingly, he is not a club member. Obviously, exceptions are made.

Please feel free to post any or all of this message and thanks for your thoughts.

K. Sadler

-----

I post my comment here since the comment form seems to be malfunctioning. This is administered out of Blogger, so I can't fix it. If ever YOU hit this roadblock, simply E me your comment at rwood24@blogspot.com and I'll post it as a post, not a comment, or append it to the post to which you respond. Thanks.

-----

By creating a two tiered system, i.e.: Golf club members and non-golf/non-members, the sense of community is endangered and the early believers who don't golf are penalized for their forward thinking and 'brochure belief.' In our view this is a mistake.

Discovery Land must know that existing owners can be the best salesforce for their 'product.'

At every party or get together we've been to in S.O., the buzz about Discovery has been a hot topic, and honestly, it hasn't been happy talk.

Some say that realtors have 'blacklisted' S.O. due to the difficulty of showing it to prospects. We can't confirm this, but the feeling is out there.

As Terri points out, this is the first property they bought into after it had been in process, so perhaps that changes the way they operate versus their normal model.

I welcome their use of this forum for their input and communication which I feel would go a long way toward easing some ruffled feathers. Don't know why they avoid the opportunity. Thousands of views mean that this blog has a significant reach. I would think much deeper than the relatively few sales 'tours' we've seen.

I sure hope the social center they are planning, here on the East side, is not members only, or that a social membership is offered.

Believe me, if I play golf there will be lives endangered. On the plus side, there'd be dozens of new golf balls lost and free for the picking. I don't even want to think of the atomic divots I'd leave in my trail.

We need a social membership and not at a sky-high price as there should be some reflection of its intrinsic value.

MORE NEW

At least two more homesites are being cleared on the East Side, one up the hill (beside the Tenant's existing home) you see from the roundabout at Spanish Oaks Boulevard, another tucked in a cul-de-sac off Musket Rim.

---

In our opinion, the single story home at Musket Rim and Paraiso is really impressive as it appears to float over its property. Stone is up, roof is on - a very nice job! Can't wait to see the final look!

---

Paul and Tanya Streeter's personal home is also in early stages... a really interesting layout from the imprint. Last we looked the concrete hadn't been poured yet.

---

The "French Chateau" on lower Musket Rim is a large property and a huge house with an existing outbuilding. They recently cut down maybe 2 dozen smaller trees which I miss, but it's their property. Hope they don't go turf-crazy! This is a property that is embraced by S.O. but appears to actually be part of the Preserve.

comment from Kim Sadler:

Kevin and I were sickened yesterday to see that the new neighbors across from us on Musket Rim have had a tree service cut down all the gorgeous Spanish Oaks from the property.

The undesirable cedar (Mt. Juniper) had already been cleared from this property and most of what was left provided nice screen and beautiful fall color. At this point, I am not sure if they have an ignorant tree service, or if they lacking information and actually asked that this task be performed themselves.

In case anyone is new to the area and doesn't realize why this community was named Spanish Oaks, the Spanish Oak (Quercus texana/) is 15-30' native, deciduous tree with brilliant fall colors. It is cold hardy adaptable to full sun or partial shade and is drought tolerant.

Because it sometimes has a rough, gray bark and no leaves in winter, someone not knowing, may mistake it for a dead tree. When in fact, it is helping to let the sun in to warm your house or yard in the winter, then providing excellent shade to cool your house in the summer. The biggest surprise comes in the fall with the stunning orange-red to maroon color it provides.

It is too late to do anything about the trees that have been lost in our view across the street, but is there something we can do to prevent this from affecting some of our other neighbors? We will report to Pam but not sure if this is even a DRC issue.

Thanks for listening, Kim

---

With the rain we've had, maybe we'll see a profusion of wildflowers now.

ANOTHER ACCIDENT

At about 9:30AM today. Appears that a car went off road directly across 71 from the East entrance, and somewhat down into what might be a ditch. I didn't see another car which appeared to have been in the accident and have no idea what happened. When I came upon it, police had traffic stopped and a firetruck was on scene along with a flatbed tow truck. Couldn't see any damage or injured. I have to admit I was very worried that a friend/neighbor might have been involved. Too worried to even think about snapping a picture with my cell phone.

From the angle, it didn't appear the westbound car just went off road there, slipped the lip, as it were. It appeared it shot straight across from the driveway, but it was hard to tell.

NOT INVITED

In case you haven't been getting any invitations to any activities from Discovery Land/Spanish Oaks, this will solve the mystery:

You aren't a member!

Right. The Golf Club haves are invited. The non-member have nots are not.

No more S.O. activities for have nots.

Wonder who will be allowed into the ol' fishing hole?

It would be nice if this were communicated from someone 'in charge', but maybe only the haves got the word.

Spanish Oaks WELCOMING COMMITTEE

Forgive me. Looking at this picture I realize the bull could easily escape/expand his reality by simply rushing the fence. But why would he? Food and ladies are provided for his dining and dancing pleasure.

How many of us are captured by own our sense of reality - one which perhaps is comfortable, but narrow?

4000TH HIT

This blog just passed it's 4000th hit. That's a lot more use than I expected when I started it. Thank you very much for visiting!

I think it simply shows an appetite for communication from or about Spanish Oaks. Or people searching for Spanish OATS are hopelessly lost!

Tennessee, Spain (Spanish Oats?), California to Florida, Texas to Minnesota, there's quite a span of locations.

As always, your input is welcome. E me long form material you'd like to post at rwood24@Austin.rr.com, or simply make a comment under any post. As administrator, I have to approve them so you won't see yours right away. But I usually check daily for those.

NEW SALES OFFICE

This is the new West Entrance side Sales/Information office. I doubt if many of the residents or absentee owners get over that way so I thought you might like to see it.




There apparently has been quite some effort put into adding trees along the roads there. No new guard house yet, but it is planned so the Tennis academy folks can go without passing one.

HOMEOWNER ON BOARD

Donald Abrams will be the homeowner rep on the home owner association board. I hope to interview him and will post that on this blog.

See the Texas HOA detail link to the right of the posts if you want to learn more about how this works - why there is only one homeowner.

APARTMENT-ZILLA

Here it comes... apartment monster!

I thought you might like to see the site from Spanish Oaks. We can only hope they have hill country style in mind, and any parking lot lights are down firing of the orangish color.

The doctor's house has the worst view of this - you see his driveway

Doc's entrance

(and sometimes cattle) as you enter on the immediate right past the east gate - I wonder if he'll move to the top of his hill, which sits in mid-Spanish Oaks... or if he'd sell. If he does, Discovery Land better be ready to step up!


Doctor house (s?) face Apartment Monster

FA LA LA LA LAAAAAAA

I think they've taken as many Christmas lights down as they are going to - a high ring of them still circles the Guard Shack on the East Entrance, but it's an improvement. How many times do you look up that way? Baby step forward.

Irrigation and fresh dirt has been laid across from the old sales office - in an area which used to be used for parking. Another step forward...

Do cub scouts still earn badges by doing things like... picking up trash in their communities? Seems like a lot of bottles and trash is scattered about the various worksites, or near them... these are in places where the grass cutters can't simply run over them and shred em up. Heck, now cub scouts probably study Nuclear Power. Wonder if that badge glows in the dark?

CHANGES

Gotcha! I have been told the Christmas lights will come off the East Gate House and burnt out floodlight bulbs will be replaced at that time (the ones that have turned the mailbox area into some shadow world.) Also I read that all those workers who park between the wooden fences and the building envelope will have their builders fined, and the builders will also have to re-flora-size (my term) what they turn into tire tracks.

Isn't that dull?

What can I tell you? There's been little news and no contributions of material to the site lately. Things ARE greening up... not news, but nice to see!

Today I counted 16 vultures riding the wind and... circling something? "Oooo ooo Scary, boys and girls. Very scary." (*Count Floyd, SCTV.)

Tout Fishing in America: We use ABC Pest control services and their rep/agent/debugger RICHARD is a joy. He cares a lot. I find that rare, in my experience. In Houston (The Woodlands), we always had a different guy each visit (same company - not ABC.) They all had facial ticks or twitches and swore the chemicals were safe. If you go with ABC, ask for RICHARD as your guy.

TANYA STREETER

Paul Streeter has built several homes in Spanish Oaks and is building another - this one for him and his wife, Tanya - he sends the following:

Hi Camelot Custom Homes' friends!

Many of you don't know what Camelot's Vice President does in her spare time....

This is just a reminder for you to watch Animal Planet on Sunday March 12th at 8pmEST/7pmCST

to see the premiere of Tanya's film "FreeDive". It's a visually stunning film about her freediving in exotic locations with different marine life, from huge Humpback whales, manatees and playful sealions, to penguins, marine iguanas and turtles. Your kids will especially enjoy going on this aquatic journey with Tanya!

Enjoy! (And check out her website for more information about her World Record dives.)

PAUL STREETER

Camelot Custom Homes, Inc.

BEE CAVE DATA

From CITY DATA. COM

Population (year 2000): 656
Est. population in July 2004: 1,308 (+99.4% change)
Males: 342 (52.1%), Females: 314 (47.9%)

Median resident age: 35.9 years
Median household income: $120,871 (year 2000)
Median house value: $470,000 (year 2000)

Races in Bee Cave:

White Non-Hispanic (90.1%)
Hispanic (7.6%)
Other race (3.5%)
American Indian (2.0%)
Two or more races (2.0%)
(Total can be greater than 100% because Hispanics could be counted in other races)

Ancestries: Irish (19.1%), German (16.8%), English (13.3%), French (4.9%), United States (4.4%), Scottish (4.3%).

For population 25 years and over in Bee Cave

High school or higher: 94.2%
Bachelor's degree or higher: 55.8%
Graduate or professional degree: 19.4%
Unemployed: 2.3%
Mean travel time to work: 25.7 minutes
For population 15 years and over in Bee Cave village

Never married: 13.4%
Now married: 79.8%
Separated: 0.7%
Widowed: 1.7%
Divorced: 4.4%
5.0% Foreign born (3.7% Europe, 0.6% North America).

Population change in the 1990s: +417 (+174.5%).

SPRING?

Well darn, we've had spring all winter, and especially yesterday and today with temp in the high 80s! I notice several small trees around lower Musket Rim and Paraiso Parkway with pink blossoms happening!

Plus, the various almost-finished homes are being landscaped now and that's a treat! The Streeter home is in process, and the Duncan home just up the street is just finished. VERY nice! The Duncan home across the street (we call them Duncan2) was done a little while ago and IT too looks fabulous.

Shirley and Donald on the back of Musket Rim had a landscape crew for weeks - maybe months - and they meticulously placed everything - the final result is wonderful. I can't wait to see it in the blooming period. It's a showcase!

Over here at stately wood acre we planted at least a million wildflower seeds and it'll be interesting to see what, if anything, comes up. They say that the first year is the worst and I can attest from our experience elsewhere that's exactly true... so it sure looks like some beautiful properties are about to sprout here in our slice of life.

IT'S THE DETAILS

Four of the ten lights above the mailboxes are burnt out. And yet we are led to believe that someone rides the property every few nights to check on things. Could it be more obvious? (Yes, all 10 could be burned out.)

And they cleaned the mail area but missed the window well grunge (too short to see it is my guess.)

Have you ever stayed at a fine hotel? They get the big things right - atmosphere, accoutrements... but also the little things that make you feel so good.

Wouldn't you think that, especially in the sales mode, it'd be even more important to get the little things right for Discovery Land?

ACCIDENT EAST OF HERE

This afternoon there was some sort of accident up the hill immediately east of the east entrance. I couldn't see that far for specifics, but there were many flashing lights from emergency vehicles.

Here's a thought - once the apartments on SH71 are built just west of our east entrance, turning left out of the east entrance of S.O. will become more difficult as there will be another source of cars below the "last" light farther up the hill. In other words, NOW we get a pulse as that light goes red. But once the apartments are in, the flow should be more intense and less pulsed.

Also by then, with more stores in the mall, when the flow is stopped by the red light on 71, that will give a green light for traffic from the mall to come east.

Anyway you look at it, more traffic is in our future.

PET OWNERS BEWARE

Jim Lay writes:

Coyotes took out our 15 year old cat yesterday in our back yard. It was very brutal. Body parts left behind. It happen during the day between 2-4. Be on the watch for small pets. There were never any coyotes out here when I was growing up. I guess the S.O.S. type people are to thank for the wonderful animal that we now have to deal with. One of the builders told me he has seen them hunting in the day time around the creek. I propose the formation of the Spanish Oaks hunting club.

Comment:

I've seen big and little dogs run loose in the neighborhood and can't help wonder what critter they might encounter. Do they have a natural avoidance of poisonous snakes?

Open Spec House Weekend

From Tim Sabo:

Newsflash for blog...

There will be a big open house for all these spec homes in Spanish Oaks on Sunday the 26th.

This is important as some "momentum " is needed to get the Spanish Oaks buzz going (and some houses selling.)

Please spread the word and we'll see how the local economy is affecting this community.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT EAST GUARD GATE

Why don't we start a pool on when they'll come down (if ever). The money we collect could go for a serious mailbox area cleaning (like with a pressure washer on the walls and windows.)

Or maybe we should have a 'volunteer day' when we all collect trash and debris and then "party" it down to just outside the sales office.

I fear I can come off as arrogant but I think it all goes back to early education - when I was taught the importance of integrity and truth, and then age amplifies some of those issues, like what an upscale community should be and how it should behave.

SLIDE SHOW

A very nice slide show of development was in our inbox upon return home. Happy to see that Discovery has finally decided to try to turn some positive vibe their way. You can tell they are very much into Golf - after all - they 'do' premium upscale GOLF communities. Maybe that's why so little effort has seemingly been placed on other things so far.

Also good to note that several items (debris, mainly) I previously listed have been taken care of, or appear to be in the works.

It does seem that compared to the West entrance, the East side has been somewhat neglected so far, but we'll see what the next little while brings.

The run down white boards on the cattle pen/field look terrible on our entrance. I realize it's not Spanish Oaks property, but why would any property owner refuse an offer of new ones?

... and have you noticed the land clearing for the apartment complex on this side of SH71? It's a biggie!

Back after 10 days away...

For the past week or so, Terri and I chartered a sailboat out of St. Lucia.

We are happy to be home in S.O. after a very late arrival last night.

Which was after --- Ferry-Taxi-Jet-Jet-Jet-CAR* and there's a story on the car I will share with you. We found a WONDERFUL car service* - he's also available for other concierge efforts. I am so impressed, that I will make a link for the side of the page. Believe me, if you take a taxi to the airport, you'll love his new BMW and perfect service. I doubt you can find better!

He met us here at 4AM the day we left and even though we were an hour late arriving back (at about 11PM last night,) he was there at the airport waiting for us.

FOUR STAR SERVICE by Sean
888.896.SEAN
512.441.2500

Our highest recommendation!

Bob and Terri Wood

BEEP BEEP

I'm a ROADRUNNER, baby....





Post by Michael Reilly, Builder/Owner of Reagan Reilly Luxury Estates



For the last 2.5 years, a family of road runners has been visiting our Spanish Oaks job sites up on La Barzola Bend. The birds live somewhere in the hilltop park directly across the street from two of our homes. I literally see these road runners almost every time I go to work. They hang out in the park and the adjacent lots and really seem curious about all the construction activity. On a couple of occasions, I’ve actually caught the birds inside our homes wandering around and just checking things out. Today, I took a camera to work to take some photos of our new home and saw the birds cruising around the job site as usual. I was able to get some pictures and I’ve included a couple of the bird photos below. So, if you’re ever walking near La Barzola, visit the Road Runner Park by going up the trail along Terramundi Terrace. Let me know if you see the birds.



For additional information on road runners, I found this cool desert website: http://www.desertusa.com/mag98/sep/papr/road.html.



- Michael Reilly

Ed note: We also have a regular Roadrunner here on Overlook Pass. I didn't realize they could fly (at least short distances) till I saw it happen. Thanks, Mike! Now if we could get some pictures of the giant OWL and FOX that have been spotted.


Roadrunner on Overlook Pass in spring


Wascally Wabbit from Overlook Pass last spring

From the NEWSLETTER

By now, most of you are aware of the new partnership between Discovery Land Company, Hillwood Development and CCNG. All of us on the Spanish Oaks team are excited about this new relationship and look forward to the next few months. We are already seeing improvements around the property, and have upgraded our Security staff and systems to enhance your community experience.

The privacy of our residents is a primary concern. Accordingly, we have engaged a new Security firm Izon Security that specializes in service for upscale, private and gated communities such as Spanish Oaks. We've hired an entirely new staff of gate personnel, expanded the hours for Security, and added a Patrol Officer during construction hours.

You'll be pleased to note that the Patrol Officer is keeping an eye on construction sites, traffic, parking, mud on the streets, etc., and is making sure that work crews do in fact enter and leave the property at appropriate times.

As part of our new Access Control system, all owners are asked to provide an authorized Access List so that the Gate personnel know who and when guests and/or contractors, deliveries, etc. can be admitted to the property.

The HOA has a new Manager!

Pam Chandler has been retained by the Board of Directors to manage our association, She serves on the Design Review Committee, and is available to answer any questions or concerns you have.

Pam can be reached at 533-2365, or via e-mail to pchandler@spanishoaks.com. She can provide information on the property, architectural issues, the status of your account, and anything you need as a property owner in our community.

Spanish Oaks Association Directory

As more residents move into the community, it's time to start gathering information for a resident directory. A directory is a great tool for owners who want to meet their neighbors, be involved in social activities, find babysitters or tutoring services, etc. Participation is strictly voluntary, and any information provided will be distributed only to Spanish Oaks residents.

A directory information form is on page 4. You can complete and either mail to the Association (13453 Hwy. 71 West, Bee Cave, TX 78738), drop off at the East Gate, Fax to Pam Chandler at 421-8525, or e-mail to us at hoa@spanishoaks.com.

Pam will gather the information and produce a directory for all those participating. We'll do periodic updates as new neighbors move in.

In the meantime, please feel free to contact Pam with suggestions for social activities or gatherings. Please return your completed form by February 25th!

The Board of Directors has decided to appoint a homeowner to serve in an advisory capacity on the Board. If you have prior experience as a Board member, or have an interest in learning how an Association operates, please contact Pam Chandler at 533-2365, or via e-mail to pchandler@spanish-oaks.com to volunteer.

Applications will be accepted through February 25th, and the Board will then review the candidates and make a selection.

Volunteers Needed!

Working with Lori Bailes, Terri Wood, Linda Engelbrecht & Malcolm Pigford, we are trying to start up some Ad Hoc committees for the HOA. These groups can work on things like the stop light issue, social activities, communications, etc. If you're interested in helping out, please contact Pam Chandler by phone or email.

Greg Bailes and Steve Yetts, Board President, have made contact with TXDOT and are
scheduling a meeting with the engineer responsible for Hwy 71 traffic issues. The meeting is being scherduled for mid-February, and we'll report on our progress.

♦ The revised Spanish Oaks Design Guidelines are now available. There are new planting requirements, and a comprehensive Approved Plant List. If you are contemplating any exterior changes to your home, getting ready to build, or planning your spring landscape work, please call or e-mail Pam Chandler to get your copy!

♦ It has come to our attention that we frequently have pets running loose in the neighborhood. Please remember that all pets must be kept on a leash when outside your property, and should not be left unattended in unfenced areas. Construction workers are not to bring pets on-site, so if you see this please alert Security by calling 533-2369, or e-mailing them to security@spanish-oaks.com

♦ Please feel free to be our eyes and ears - Spanish Oaks is a large property, and our staff can't see everything! If you see lights out, people speeding, mud in the streets, or anything you feel needs attention, please contact Pam Chandler at 533-2365 or via e-mail to pchandler@spanish-oaks.com

Open Home Tour February 26, 2006 Noon --- 5 PM

The Spanish Oaks Sales Office will be hosting an Open Home Tour of homes for
sale on Sunday, February 26th from 12 to 5 PM. Each home will be hosted by its listing agent and the Spanish Oaks sales staff will be on site to assist the hosting agents. The Sale Office will host Open Home Tours from time to time to increase exposure of the neighborhood and showcase the fine builders and homes here. While realtors and the general public interested in viewing homes will be allowed access to the ommunity, Security will be distributing community rules, tour maps, and will have additional staff patrolling the property to protect your privacy. Please contact Pam Chandler or stop by the Sales Office for more information.

CONTACT INFO

Pam Chandler, Assn. Manager Phone: 533-2365 or 484-1303 E-mail: pchandler@spanish-oaks.com

East Gate Phone: 533-2369 E-mail: security@spanish-oaks.com

West Gate Phone: 535-7360 E-mail: security@spanish-oaks.com

Sales Center Phone: 533-2370

Design Review Committee Call Pam Chandler E-mail: drc@spanish-oaks.com

Time Warner Cable Phone: 531-7855 Telephone/Internet/Digital Cable

Sharp Community Energy Phone: 288-4511 Gas Service

LCRA Phone: 473-3200 Water/Wastewater

Allied Waste (BFI) Phone: 247-5647 Trash Removal/Recycling

Our new gate personnel are here to take care of you, and as time goes by they'll get to know all of you.

We thought the homeowners would appreciate knowing their names as well.

Site Supervisor: Tim Mershon (Patrol M-F)

Gate Personnel: Cottrill Dickerson (East/Patrol)
Anthony Draper (West)
Carole Edge (East)
Brian Evans (East)
Marcus Flores (East)
Bill McClung (West)
Thomas Mercado (West)
Al Pedron (East/Patrol)

These folks are working very hard to make Spanish Oaks a safe and happy neighborhood for you and your guests. We appreciate your input and cooperation with our new systems and are confident that you'll seea great improvement in our program.

OUR DISCOVERY

Since Discovery Land came in on this development, we see little if any change in the following areas: If you feel differently, please add your comment.

1- Trashy worksites.

As I write this there are three homes in construction or just finished at the bottom of our street (Overlook Pass) - one, now occupied, has a large pile of trash on the front (street side) of the property. The trash has been there for at least a week.

The house across the street from that has trash scattered all over the lot - oh - sorry - "the building envelope." They also have a loaded dumpster.

The third home passes muster.

2- Christmas lights.

They're still up at the guard house. Or maybe it's being converted into a cheap restaurant.

2a - Lights

At the guardhouse are still on in some daylight hours. Last we heard someone was looking into that.* Just like someone was "looking into" which state reps to contact (for a year, since last HOA meeting in 2004) about Rt 71 - I looked them up in 30 minutes and posted.

3 - East Gate Mailbox area

Is just ridiculously dirty. Filthy. In this premium community? WAY out of place. This was brought up in our meeting. Why hasn't there been action?

What bothers me most are the resassurances we've been receiving that someone in authority rides the property to notice such things. If noticed, action takes WAY too long. If UNNOTICED there's simply no excuse.

Unless I read the "room" wrong, which I admit IS possible, I think Discovery Land needs to understand the low regard they have placed themselves in, due to their lack of communication and apparent inaction. Yes, the lot prices went up. That means nothing to someone who plans no sale, to stay here. Their stewardship is 1) lacking and 2) disappointing. And assessments went up. Yet it seems like there is LESS attention and ROI on that money now!

Personally I can wait for a fishing hole. I can wait for new offices. I can't wait for a filthy mailbox area to be cleaned or attention to normal detail which is sadly missing here in our slice of paradise.

Accident at 71 and Spanish Oaks Club Blvd 2-04-06