WELCOME TO SPANISH OAKS

Another in a continuing series of welcomes to Spanish Oaks by the HOA was held yesterday eve at the beautiful home of Trish and Bruce Hamilton.

Although I met the new neighbors I have an amazing inability to remember full names, especially when given in a loud atmosphere. Forgive me for not labeling them. Pam Chandler told us that there were several families on the cusp of moving in, so our community is surely growing.

Several of us began a campaign for a pistol range. If you shoot, and have been to Carter Country in Houston, you know how it can be done. Basically you need a good backdrop of dirt to stop the bullets and a horseshoe of dirt to defect any noise from reaching the surroundings.

HIGHWAY 71 PLANS

Are available in detail... click on link at the top of the right column.

ACCIDENT?

Reports of an accident at or near the WEST entrance this morning, reportedly at 8:15 in the fog and rain. We've been unable to get details.

AN ALMOST ACCIDENT

Count me lucky! After breakfast in Lakeway Sunday morning, we stopped for mail (east entrance, first parking space). I handed it to Terri, checked behind me driverside, passenger side, started to backup then a piece of mail she had caught my eye as I stepped on the brake to look. Just then, an SUV zoomed up the street behind us (my view obscured by a large bush) - I am certain had I continued without stopping to see the mail piece I would have been hit hard, T-boned at worst.

One solution would be to use parking space 3 as it gives a better view and more reaction time.

I couldn't see who it was or even catch them to see... but whoever you are, you are lucky too. Even when there's no injury, there's a whole world of hassle getting a car towed, fixed, etc. Deductibles apply. Inconvenience. Time spent. A big pain.

Everybody - watch out for folks backing out of the kiosk parking - there's a blind spot.

Writing of blindness, long ago I blogged with picture of the blind spot which can happen if you are turning out of the east entrance left (west) and your view of the car speeding downhill is blocked by a car turning into S.O. - you see ONE car, think it's clear, and boot it. Surprise!

Another is headed east uphill - I saw this the other day - the car in the inner lane was turning left, had stopped, but didn't have a turn signal or brake lights lit. It took a little time to realize he/she was stopped! If I had been tailgated or the outer lane was blocked...

Even another situation is when you are turning into the east entrance from the east... car behind you waits to pull over to the outer lane too long - and the car behind him isn't paying attention. You get hit.

We've all been lucky or have grown extra senses. If I had a teen just starting out, I'd sure read this to them, maybe show it in real life. There are several unusual situations lurking out there even for experienced drivers.

WHERE ARE THE "WEEKLY EMAILS"?

There haven't been any lately. There 'isn't any news.' Hard to believe, maybe, in a project this size that there isn't anything worthwhile to communicate, but that's what I've been able to learn.

Originally conceived as a way to help build a sense of the neighborhood/community, information became a trickle, then a drip.

I built this blog to counter what I thought to be poor info management and I believe it can still act as an electronic newspaper for those who care about or have invested in Spanish Oaks. Some must - there have been over 30,000 views of something or other in here to date.

And yes, it also serves as commentary, much like a newspaper has editorials.

We may be at the stage where encouraging your contributions to the blog would result in some added content. To that I say, bring it on - my email address is at the top of the right hand column. However, to be real, my experience in the media tells me that very few participate in anything involving creativity or time.

Ironically, there was a call for the HOA website to contain a forum which I built; however, it's almost never used. See my "However..." immediately above.

I ask that anything you think worthy to contribute be emailed to me, know that I do reserve the right to edit, and please don't send things anonymously. Of course, your option is to wait for the 'weekly' email.

SPANISH OAKS CLUB BOULEVARD ROCKS!!!

The situation in a nutshell (and nuts is a great starting place!) Trucks rolled over the center island buffalo grass, as they apparently (?) couldn't make the turn in the radius presented. So (this goes back some time) a wooden fence was attempted.

Then it was replaced by small rocks (have I got the chronology right?) then they were replaced by larger rocks. Then they were taken away. This is over months. And now we have another realtor open house Sunday and suddenly much bigger rocks are back!

It looks ridiculous. Cheap. Hello, management, you can do better.

BEE CAVE PARK

We knew it was proposed - a new Bee Cave Park - but where? Part of the confusion was cleared last night as we attended the meeting about Highway 71 - there, in the lobby of Bee Cave City Hall, was a sketch of the park. What cleared up is that the road shown on it doesn't exist yet - Bee Cave Parkway will extend from where it exists now (onto 620) to eventually link up with Hamilton Pool Road.

On this sketch I've inserted some text to help align your view. Click here to see it in full screen.

HIGHWAY 71

By now you know - due to pretty compete media coverage, that the 71 enhancements are underway - what you might not know - especially if not in the area (absentee lot owners, for example) is that the area of immediate concern/number of deaths is considerably west of here. Our issues will be part of another project - from Oak Hill (The Y) to beyond S.O. That's if and when. If it's funded and when it can be done.

Roadway money is hard to come by in Texas.

THE BACKYARD

Last night at the Bee Cave Council Meeting, the Backyard presented a preliminary plan to move to the NW corner of 620 and 71 (behind the church). A 7500 seat facility is proposed, with parking for 2500 cars. If you've endured the present silly parking scheme, you might leap for joy. Good to see it's not moving FAR away.
It's still in the early stages (ha!)

EAST VERSUS WEST

While waiting, we measured. The west gate, from beep of the scanner to fully open, is about 4 seconds slower than the east. It's about 14 vs. 18 seconds. According to one of the guards, the west side gate actually lifts then opens, though we've not noticed that as it takes a few seconds to get there from the 'pad.'

Let's push for a fix to the remaining dip right as you exit the east entrance gate. They did a nice repair job on the other one down by the bridge. One down, one to go.

WHITE CAT LOST

We're missing a White Cat with 24 toes, if anybody has seen him, this neutered male cat belongs to Taylor Skinner, age 14 at 4813 Mondonedo Cove. If you find him, please call Taylor 627-6332

MISSED THE FIRST PHOTO

Walking the neighborhood this perfect afternoon, my mind wandered despite the choke chain. There were many good smells and many new shades of grey. So I failed to notice the snake thing in the street ahead and I didn't alert Bob, who was lost in his own thoughts. It's a good thing he went to the bathroom before our walk. He did see the last little bit of slither into the grass and we avoided the area.

Jessie Wood

TIME STRETCHES FOR WARNER

Pretty heavy duty stuff but a truck probably ran over it exposing the shield. Of course this is on rock, so they'd have some work to circumvent it.



This is my favorite, because for months the box was wide open! If you were ever a ten year old boy, you know the magnetism of an open box of 'stuff' - heck, once we found an unlocked traffic control box. Imagine the fun!

Well, there may or may not be any harmful voltage or amps in there, but the door swung open for months before someone closed it. However, they had this nasty cable to route. Nicely done.



More cable susceptible to whatever comes along. Did you know a new york rat can eat through concrete?

It's not that hard to find above ground cables in S.O. I assume these are TW, or somebody could conceivably do a dance with Mister Amp. Does anybody inspect this place with an eye for these things which are all too obvious and allowed to stand for YEARS?

(These are on Musket Rim - an early part of the development, so they've been there for at least three years.)

(Aside to "anonymous" who thinks I am pulling down the value of the homes by pointing these things out: this is reality.)

YOU DON'T NEED WATER FOR A POOL PARTY

Some anonymous ticked off owner left a nice contribution of vitroil over in the comments section of Sarcasm Oaks. Thinks the blog can affect his or her property values. I don't think the Fed can even do that. Put a bb in a glass jar and shake. That's the brain power being generated.

I say let's bring back Benjamin Franklin and prop him up at the east gate guardhouse. Maybe add a little perspective to what stands behind free speech.

MEANWHILE the blowout was great last night, a soft opening (bad title) a hose opening (better) of the Lodge and camp. Wish I had been drinking as I spied some mighty fine selections there in the bar. Mighty fine.

Here are some random pictures. For the archives. The pool should be ready to swim on July 4.

SARCASM OAKS

I write a blog for the locals - as 12th or 14th into this development, we've sure seen it grow while the developers were and continue to be very weak at communication - in my opinion. This gave me the idea of a blog which would basically serve as a newspaper/ organ (ahem) for the folks who were interested or bought in. This is that blog.

Well, there's certainly some political correctness necessary, even though I've been consistent in my opinion (hey, a newspaper has opinion pages!) which centers around my perception of mismanagement in various nitpicks plus the big one - lack of info flow to owners.

So far, I am the communications person (voluntary) for the development - as such - any emails sent out must be to an opt-in list and also vetted by the bigs at the Board of Directors or their assigns. Once almost weekly, they have trickled down to almost none. Frustration builds.

This leads to an Electric Onion approach toward it all... and a new website with a title that I feel explains it all. Nothing is true. All is fair game and in the spirit of tongue deeply in cheek. See Welcome to SARCASM OAKS! The active link will be at the top right side of this site. Please come visit, add ideas, smile.

71 INFO FROM CITIZENS FOR CHANGE ON 71

CAMPO Public Hearing: Monday, March 17th 6pm. CC71 will be on the official agenda to request funding for improvements on Hwy. 71. Location of hearing will be at the UT Thompson Center. Public comments will also be welcome from citizens regarding Uplands Ridge Boulevard to Preserve Way on Hwy. 71. http://www.campotexas.org/

comment:

Haven't we been told by legislators and reps that THERE ISN'T ANY MONEY for this and even if there was it'd take 5 years or more to complete? - Envoironmental studies, bids, design, construction process...

Nevertheless:

Texas Department of Transportation

SH 71 Action Plan

Limits: US 290 to FM 2322

After a review of roadway and accident data the following activities are proposed:

Immediately contract to roughen roadway surface in areas where wet weather related fatality accidents have occurred except for those areas already resurfaces with a porous friction course pavement. This region is from FM 2322 to Bee Creek Road (Approximately 6 miles). This activity is estimated to be complete within 30 days.

Immediately contract to rest ripe entire length of SH 71 from US 290 to FM 2322 including replacing raised pavement markers. Rumble striping will be used to alert drivers when crossing the center line or edge lines. (Approximate length 18 miles). This activity is estimated to be complete within 60 days.

Immediately contract to place porous friction course pavement in the area where bad wet weather related fatality accidents have occurred and not previously placed. This region is from FM 2322 to Bee Creek Road (Approximately 6 miles). This activity is estimated to be complete by the end of the summer.

Conduct traffic speed study for the entire SH 71 corridor from US 290 to FM 2322 and reduce speed limits where justified under the legal criteria for setting speed limits. The study is estimated to be complete within 10 days and signs installed within 45 days.

Place additional warning signs and flashing beacons where warranted. This activity is estimated to be complete within 60 days.

The total cost for the above activities is estimated to be $3 million.

Longer term activities include:

Bid project in fall of 2008 to construct a continuous left turn lane and add shoulders from FM 2322 to R.O. Drive Estimated Cost: $7 million

Continue to seek funds to add a continuous left turn lane and add shoulders for the remaining portions of the corridor.

71

Bob, I am sure you have heard about this. My cousin is friends with the family of this girl. It is such a terrible story, and to make matters more horrible, I was told that the girl's sibling was also killed in a car accident two years ago.

The guy that hit her was going 110 miles per hour! She was on the far outside lane, where her parents had told her she would be safest if someone crossed the yellow line. The driver survived.

This road is SO VERY dangerous as it is, so why would someone drive so fast on it? I don't travel the road a lot (yet) so I am not sure how much the police patrol it, but it seems to me that if they had a huge presence on that road, people would be more conscious of how fast they are going. I have already told my family how dangerous this road is and to be cautious when they visit us in the future. I would hate to think that "budget" and trying to preserve a small part of the environment would take such precedence over human lives.

Student killed in crash on Highway 71


04:28 PM CST on Monday, March 3, 2008


KVUE News, A Lake Travis High School student was killed over the weekend in the ninth deadly accident on a dangerous stretch of Highway 71 just west of Bee Creek, Texas Department of Public Safety officials said., Lake Travis High School, Michelle Kaughs, The accident happened Sunday night around 10 o'clock., One person was killed in a one vehicle accident., Lake Travis ISD identified the victim in a letter sent to parents Monday as Michelle Kaughs, a Lake Travis High School junior. The district said she was heading home from work., “I know that the care and strength of our school and community will help sustain us during this difficult time of grief and healing, ” LTHS Principal Charlie Little said in a news release. “We ask that you please keep the Kauhs family in your thoughts and prayers.”, Counselors were available to talk to students and staff., Eight people have died on that stretch of road since 2006.

Cathi Rustmann

WEEKLY EMAIL?

Well, it wasn't exactly weekly anyway, but it seems there's nothing to report. Not officially. Or vetted. Or corporately. Hard to believe.

So if you opted in, you aren't forgotten.

Another accident - this one at the top of the hill west of east entrance... looked like a rear ender. I tried to get some pictures but that's hard while leaning backwards out the window at a stopped line of cars.

We can all look forward to the soft opening of the Lodge. You should have received your box of invitation.

Lights remain on on Spanish Oaks Parkway today in the bright sun at 3:50. Al Gore contacted.

ANOTHER MAJOR WRECK ACROSS FROM EAST ENTRANCE

I happened on the scene shortly after it must have taken place. At least two pickups were in the woods across the roadway from the east entrance to S.O., actually off of 71. It appears there's a bit of embankment there - not much was visible, though at least one of the trucks was damaged heavily. Firetrucks and ambulances were there or on the way. Don't know what my phone picked up, but here's what I got:

ONE DIP OUT OF TWO

Notice the marking on the incoming route to the east entrance - they found the dip that scraped my friend's Limited Edition Viper. But also notice there's no marking on the virtually same dip right as you exit the east entrance gate.

Maybe they ran out of paint.

Let's hope they fix both.

Steve Yetts has promised me a meeting when he's on the grounds and I look forward to that. If you have any pictures of questionable things, please submit to rwood24@Austin.rr.com You can be anonymous, but at least identify the picture location.

ROADS LEAD TO FISH... AND BEYOND!

Roads are in. Who knows where they lead? Likely to multi-million dollar escapes for the rich and famous. I doubt you'll see a fishing show shot back at the fish camp, but at least you can get there and keep your Escalade shiny. If you forgo the lot, which isn't paved.

Just for grins:

TAKE THE PAPER. TAKE IT. TAKE IT!

The American-Satesman must tell its distributors to leave them wherever there's a driveway and no contract for delivery. Our neighbor gets one at each of their two driveways.

This house doesn't exist yet, but undeterred, the American Statesman persists.

FINALLY

We finally received some of the answers to questions posed at the/ or for the/ annual meeting last month. They've been sent to the opt-in weekly e-mail list and will be posted on the HOA website. Probably not appropriate to post here through certain questions RAISED questions and clearly there's more to come.

Anybody know what the 'lift' is all about on La Barzola? <>

Meanwhile another wreck reported yesterday AM at 71 and the Madrones. No details.

THE BIG CRACKDOWN

Overheard two motorcycle cops just now, talking about Highway 71. Apparently there was a police meeting somewhere at that moment discussing crackdowns on speeders on on 71. As one put it, "5 mph over can happen without you knowing it, but 10 - you're speeding on purpose. I might give a warning." The other said, "if 10 over, and on the phone, it's a ticket for them."

Be warned. And safe.

THE CIRCLE IS BROKEN

Spanish Oaks Boulevard, as it passes through the circle, clearly isn't working the way it was intended, due primarily to too-large-truck traffic. We've seen mitigation attempts from wooden fencing to rocks to HUGE ROCKS and now, no rocks. Maybe something has happened since last night - you never know.

We hear the circle will be rebuilt but cannot obtain a solid timetable or plan.

Maybe they'll pave it.
Or put cameras to catch the miscreants and fine them.
Or post a guard permanently.
Or fence it with an angry bull in the fence.

Who's in charge? What are they thinking? Who knows?

3 KILLED ON 71

Fatal wreck on Texas 71 kills three, injures 5
By Melissa Mixon | Saturday, February 16, 2008, 03:14 PM

At least three people are dead and five are seriously or critically injured after a two-car collision this afternoon, emergency officials said.

The dead are believed to be “student aged,” around 16 to 18 years old, and one of the critically injured is believed to be a child, said Warren Hassinger, a spokesman for Austin-Travis County EMS. Names and information about the injured and deceased were not immediately available.

Click here for full story

UPDATES

Rebar has been installed into the community pool area. It's one heck of a lot of iron!

Some of the roads back there have been paved.

A visit with two friends and generations of fishing technique added up to one catch and release. I lost a lure but caught another lure. Entropy.

Here are a few pictures of the latest (Sunday past.)

ROAD GLOOM

According to TxDOT's Exec Director, TxDOT's ability to come anywhere close to meeting those needs (for the next 25 years) looks doubtful, due to problems caused by stagnating revenue sources, escalating costs, and cuts in expected federal aid as resources are devoted to other programs, including military spending.

In the biennial appropriations bill passed by the Texas Legislature in 2007, TxDOT was allocated more than $8.721 billion for fiscal 2008, but the funding has not developed as anticipated, and the agency is having to cut back on what it intended to spend for maintenance and new construction projects.

READ full article click here!

Where does that leave what will be discussed below? Somebody be sure to ask. Also get timetable projections. Then please pass along info to this blog. My guess is that if we see 71 widened at the bridge over B Creek within 5 years, the roadway will contain a chapel where pilgrims can visit the site of the miracle!

HIGHWAY 71

TxDOT will hold an open house on Tuesday, February 26th, at the Travis County West Rural Community Center (adjacent to the City of Austin Fire Station, west of the "Y") from 5 pm to 8 pm. The purpose of the open house is to discuss proposed improvements to SH 71 from Uplands Ridge to Silvermine Drive (approximately 1/2 mile east of Thomas Springs Road). The proposed improvements would widen SH 71 to accommodate a continuous turn lane and shoulders.


Another wreck yesterday up the hill toward Bee Cave Road. No details.

BYE BYE BACKYARD?

The Backyard may no longer be in our backyard. Click here for the story.

19 DAYS

If you are a regular reader you know (about three or four posts below) that upon request, I had submitted questions to be answered at the annual meeting. They were not addressed.

I've been told they are in process.

So - what is the proper forum for getting answers which relate to our HOA if not through the one suggested? I completely understand the (assumed) desire of the board to not turn the annual meeting into a bitch session; still, it seems there's been a disconnect. Questions were solicited. Wouldn't it have made sense to say something at the meeting like "some of you have questions which we'll be addressing in the near future." I'd ask why the delay? Why were no specifics given to the one question about the apparent HOA payment for trail maintenance ("I'll get back to you" was Steve's answer.) Well, what's the answer to that one?

Supposedly some of the questions were unanswerable due to Pam's absence due to family matters. That's understandable and unfortunate.

Despite an effort at better communication it seems to me we are back in a lull which needs attention. Again I insist that the best salespeople for this development are the people who live here. They deserve better service from management.

In my business experience (radio) there's the rule of quintiles: basically about 80% of your business comes from 20% of heavy users. I'm sure if you sat down all the owners only 20% would have issues or would wish to participate. (Many people are non-confrontational or apathetic.) A free flow of information which affects us all would serve the 20% and maybe bring the others into a greater sense of inclusion.

-------

That said, an update - as of yesterday it looked like the curbing has been installed on one of the roads to the fish camp. You'd have to assume paving would be soon. This is exactly the kind of basic information which if communicated would give the owners a better sense of ownership and progress.

FISHY STORY

This is the lodge at Fish Camp though it's up the street (still unpaved.) Think whistling and Andy and Opie and coffee can of worms.

Or imagine sparkling blue waters as bronzed moms and dads chat while their kiddos splash poolside. Or maybe a sunset/evening party. This has the makings of a good thing. See below for more.

Views of SPANISH OAKS

By July this will be a pool. Pretty nice size. Start saving for your chlorine assessment! This is at the lodge and will be open to all owners. We understand unofficially that the food concession will be run by the Golf club personnel but we have several questions about that. There IS a kitchen in there.

Who will be the grandest in the land part 1 - this home is hidden by the valley in which it sits in a prime location. Could be a major contender.



Who will be the grandest in the land, part 2. Impressive hilltop location. Looks huge from back road.



When we get a great sunset they are worth keeping. Or emailing. This one was spectacular.



I've been promising the Rustmans (new to SO) that I'd include their picture but have been slow. Here they are - a great couple.

SOHOA ALERT

If you happen to have examined your recent Sharp propane bill you should find a new line item (Usage of - - - - CF) that appears to inflate your charge.

Sharp indicated that their billing service has been alerted to this additional line item and Sharp states that your total charge is correct. This billing format should be corrected for the next billing cycle.

Propane cost has risen from $.077 to $.088 per cubic foot since the last billing period.

Plans to put a herd of cattle on the golf course as a cost-cutting source of methane generation have been shelved due to the difficulty of trapping the gas.

10 DAYS

Questions I submitted for the annual meeting 10 days ago remain unanswered.

Wouldn't you think that with the trouble we've had with trucks overrunning the circle on Spanish Oaks Boulevard, that there'd be a hurry-up to redesign or alter course rather than throw down a pair of white rocks?

It just doesn't seem very upscale, or in keeping with the brochured grandeur of the place.

Someone asked why the gates are sometimes left open - this I do know - it's because the heavy winds tend to break them.

A recent issue was that of a work crew with an open fire on a burn ban day, just maybe 10 feet from dry grass and cedar. I reported it. 'Security' wasn't able to find it, declared it out, while it continued to burn. That builder has had his construction underway for weeks, maybe months? with no chain link fence which just went up this week. Where's the oversight? What does the roving security guard note? Isn't that rather obvious? Even after having been "shut down" by SO, work crews somehow continued to gain access to the site.

There remain many questions unanswered and I've been promised answers which will be emailed to those opted in. Where possible and if appropriate I will also blog them.

HOA ANNUAL MEETING

Why do we have annual meetings? Other than a nice chance to socialize, the point may be that it's required in bylaws. Last night's annual meeting at Rosie's was pretty empty of content while it was fairly full of people. Still, many were absent. You know who you are.

Several pols were invited to glad hand and give the message that 71 SAFETY is of PRIME CONCERN and that funding is hard if not impossible to come by. Especially in this era of politicing, there was a certain hollowness in my head as I heard the words. Maybe it's me.

Synopsis:

No funding. Money not there.
Make noise with legislature. Squeaky wheel syndrome.
Our board is making its feelings known. Back pats all around.
Only hope is as safety issue... might be money there somehow.
It's going to get worse.
SOS will sue over bridge widening.

That's that.

Why residents don't come equipped with questions is beyond me - there were very few (and the ones I sent in were left unanswered.)

I asked when Discovery projected that they would turn over control of the HOA to the home owners and got a somewhat vague 'market forces' driven answer which I think meant in a couple years.

The budget appears to have been underfunded last year. Wonder why?

Maybe no one wishes to ask 'embarrassing' questions at these things, but there are issues which will come to haunt us, namely, the cracking and deterioration of the early-in roads.

The lodge is projected to open with a gala of 4 July.

This blog is my creation and serves my opinion, naturally. I think there are many issues which need to be addressed but which are kept as unknowns until perhaps we get the whole Pandora's box when the transfer occurs.

"I'll get together with you later with specifics" is an answer that doesn't do the rest of us much good when you add that there isn't much communication from Discovery. (The name is irony itself, get it?)

No doubt this is a big project - I've seen the timeline in the office and it's long, detailed and complicated. Yet the interest certainly is felt by those who ask me (as if I knew!) questions about this or that.

Here's the list I sent in pre-meeting:

What is the timetable for road repairs?

cracks in road
cracks around manhole areas
dips approaching and exiting east entrance
bump at bridge east entrance, either side

Will they include the concrete sides which are broken in some places?

Will the Lodge be expected to turn a profit on food sales? What will the pricing plan be? Will food be sold at cost?

What employees will run Lodge?

Will there be a lifeguard on duty?

When will the road to the lodge and fishcamp be paved?

Why only decorations on west side for Christmas? (See budget - number for decorations seems high!)

Why has east gate stopped welcoming fire?

Why no fence around construction site next door to us (11528 Overlook Pass)? Why no oversight of same?

Why does the gate call when Police make delivery to our home (planning and zoning materials for Terri Wood) but NOT when workers arrive for painting? Are the police not allowed in without notice?

and I might add...

Why are certain guards not welcoming owners any longer?

For that matter, why have guards after midnight (as largest budget item and with security gates) why have them at all?

Maybe Discovery feels no need to disseminate such info. I feel that's a mistake, as we are the best salespeople for this development and to keep us unknowing suggests a lack of planning (which I don't believe is true, but it is suggested), an arrogance (what would be the point of that?), a lack of customer focus (!), or the need for someone to be given the responsibility to get the word out... or the failure to clearly delineate who communicates and when.

Unless they have done that, and the answer is - stonewall.

ANOTHER 71 WRECK

Sunday, about 8:20 we noticed the fire engines headed to what appeared to be an accident at about where we'd estimate the Uplands entrance/exit to be... (Up the hill and east of our east entrance.) There were quite a few emergency vehicles. Despite the wind, I tried to grab a shot. All the streaks of light below the towers are involved in rescue, etc. It's quite a long string.

LOST CAT

The Vinsons, of Overlook Pass, have lost their little cat. If you see it, please call Sheryl at 965-1691

It's only 5 pounds. Named Misty. Lost two days ago.

Road Report

For those traveling Spanish Oaks Club Blvd. west of the intersection at Musket Rim, beware of another failure (cave in) in progress of the road surface.

BUMP DE BUMP

We hear that certain S.O. road fixes will take place in the first quarter. We hope they improve the bumps at the east entrance, not to mention all the cracks around manholes. Maybe there will be info at the annual meeting?

CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM

Actually the new sparkle/headlight reflectors mounted on the curb do a great job of highlighting Spanish Oaks Boulevard in the night. We didn't follow the trail to see if they go completely around the back road but it's a nice touch wherever it is.

Some have asked: why did the West Gate have Christmas wreaths and the East gate none? Good question. Best guess: the golf club put them there.

CAVALIERS PARADE

January 2, 2008

Dear LTISD Parent,

You are invited to celebrate with the Lake Travis High School football state champions at a parade this Saturday, January 5, 2008 at 11 a.m. at the Hill Country Galleria. The City of Bee Cave and the Hill Country Galleria are proud to sponsor the Lake Travis Cavalier State Championship Parade and Celebration.

Main Street at the Galleria will be blocked off early Saturday morning and attendees should line the streets to view the parade. Confetti and streamers are both welcome and invited. The parade aspect of the celebration will begin at the Dillard's end of Main Street and will proceed to the opposite end of the Galleria. After the procession, as the players, coaches, trainers, band, dance team and cheerleaders make their way into the amphitheatre, the crowd will move from the streets to the amphitheatre for the rally.

The "rally" aspect of the celebration will be hosted by Dave Cody, Fox News Sportscaster. The team and coaching staff will be introduced on the balcony above City Hall and will be available for a "meet the team" session after the formalities.
Since Main Street will be blocked off for the parade, please park in the garages at the Galleria or in the lots on the south side of the buildings. It is expected that the parade and celebration will run from 11:00 a.m. to noon.

Wear your red and black! State championship shirts and hats are available now and on parade day at Team Spirit located at the Galleria.

There is still a need for a few convertibles for the parade. Please contact Bob Dorsett at 652-8854 or Amy Still at 750-3355 if you are willing to drive your car. The parade organizers are grateful for the many individual and corporate donors of vehicles including International Sports Cars.

Congratulations Cavs!

Marco Alvarado

Director of Communications
ltisd_communications@ltisdschools.org

NEW YEARS EVE FIREWORKS

For new folks: although there should be a cool wind blowing from the North by then, tonight, from the top of Musket Rim, you can see almost a 360 degree view of fireworks displays all over the area. Last year we saw at least a dozen, though most are pretty distant. Happy New Year.

ICE SIGHTED IN SPANISH OAKS

Winnipeg's arctic breath blows through Fargo, breezes through Minneapolis, Iowa, Kansas and Oklahoma before becoming a kiss for Spanish Oaks. Witness above, taken this morning at a leaky construction site.

(If it reaches Galveston, it'll be caught on a glass and mixed with Tequila, said a spokesperson for Glen Campbell.)

Our crack team of investigator claims there is no truth to the rumor that the east gate guards will be burning untaken phone books to welcome us home in these circumstances.

SETTLER MEMORIES

As I trotted Miss Jessie around the

'hood

this AM, as Donald Abrams puts it, I got to thinking fondly of those who have left us for greener pastures or work demands.

As we circled lower Musket Rim, I felt genuine nostalgia. (Not bad, in a new development.) Terri and I can't decide if we were the 11th or 14th owner in place, but that's early, either way. January three years ago (almost) we drove 1500 miles south on 35 from -14 to 52 degrees.

We miss the Duncans, Dick and Teresa, aka Duncan2s, since Art and Laura Duncan live right across the street. I miss Reilly, the sweet leaning dog; the kids; Dick, so cool and freindly in his Porsche, with just a hint of conspiratorial hijinx about him.

We miss the LAYS, Jim and Heather and precocious Madison, and coco, the SUV death-defying wiener who owned the street.

We miss the Calloways - The Undertaker - and his beautiful black Bentley. I was going to do what it took to mooch a ride. Arm wrestle - whatever. (Ouch!) But he and his semi-shy real life way were a neat contrast to his professional career. And of course his Great Dane...

We miss the horses on the property not technically S.O. but across from the Adams-Werners, where the little tiny horse and bigger companion could be coaxed to come sniff Jessie, causing serious wig-wag.

We've filled some of the homes with new faces and haven't yet bonded with them out of sheer numbers and fewer organized meet 'n' greets, but notice that EVERYONE waves - it's a real friendly place and we are happy to have found this special slice of Texas Heaven.

Closer to home, the two lots to our right are being developed - one at 8500 Square feet, is quite the deal; the closer one is awaiting concrete foundation. And the lot immediately above us is scheduled to start any day.

So far I've been remarkably able to dodge loud noise while recording commercial demos in my studio... very fortunate in that regards.

They say change is constant - the state of entropy in the universe is a constant and it's easy to see even in this macro example.

To the new, welcome! Let's hear more about you and your interests... to the old who might see this, we miss ya! And to those I left out, it isn't for any reason than we didn't get to know you as well as we would have liked.

Best wishes to all.

DOG-GONE IT

Well, I'll try one more time - the 20th - to load the Dog Day pictures... they show in preview but not on the web. Go figure. Nope. Doesn't work.

Reminds me of the time a friend and I tried to take an IQ test at a mall - the machine cost a quarter. It took the money but gave no test or refund.

We later found another with the exact same problem.

It dawned on us we failed the test.

About the dogs, there must be a bug in either photoshop or blogger - and I suspect blogger since the slide show works just fine in preview mode, so it obviously loads and plays, just not to the world.

Frankly, it's just a pack of dogs and some owners... not world class photography - but I am certain the owners would enjoy the pictures.

Back

We arrived back Monday evening after a long 2000 mile 3 plane ride from the Grenadines. Missed the storm in Puerto Rico too.

That's why we were away for the big 'do' which sounds like it was super - welcoming new neighbors on the 6th.

So we've been in a bubble... does anyone have anything to contribute to the blog for the past week?

A Bulldozer - a big one - was attacking the lot next to ours when we left - so far so good - boy, that's when you get your fingers crossed! We expect the one for the lot above us momentarily. Civilization.

REACHING OUT

Amanda Tennant writes:

Last year, Lori Bales asked residents in the neighborhood if they were interested in sponsoring families through The Christmas Bureau. Our family signed up immediately and Lori was sweet enough to go the Christmas Bureau Agency in North Austin and find a family for us to sponsor and I believe for 11 other residents living in the neighborhood.

But because of life changes and family commitments, Lori is unable to do that again this year so I will be going to the agency next week and will be selecting a family to sponsor but wanted to let our neighborhood know that I am more than happy to select families for those interested and can bring back the information to them (the same way Lori did last year.)

You can reach Amanda at the email address below.

atennant@kw.com

DOG PARTY IN THE GROVE, MORE 'N' 30th ATTEMPT

Boy, you can tell how the development is growing by the number of dogs and owners at this years dog bash. If all goes well - and this is a first for this blog - there should be a look at the party below. Hope you enjoy it. Uhhh... the mystery continues: despite blogger's assurance that it's there, I see nothing. I'll try from time to time to reload it - it DOES exist on my computer archive - but I suspect there's an issue at the blogger home office. Apparently I am not alone - Blogger admits uploading video trouble. I will keep trying just to see it through. At least now there's a load size indicator. That's new. I am hopeful. Ah, but the dreaded processing video follows... and appears to be the hangup. I try again - the 20th time? I wonder if they have a team on this or just one savant with Jolt cola? - who might have had a bad attitude having to work over Thanksgiving (do they have Thanksgiving in India?) These guys should have a look at YouTube. Probably a lot more complicated than it seems: Load file, play file. Or maybe the conversion means lower the resolution (I already did that, to almost-cheese!) Wouldn't you think, as fast as YouTube is growing, that this would be a priority? Well, on the 14th try it loaded right quick. Now we go through the processing part. Place your bets. Results below. In honor of the dogs, I won't let go of this bone. I realize I can load into YouTube and link to that, but in this case I am stubborn as a junk-yard dog. It's a damn SLIDESHOW, not even a video! Should be a piece of cake! Now this is getting to me. I refuse to be beaten. I'm up to about 30 attempts, changing things in the HTML, experimenting, seeking similar HELP stories online.

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE, WITH THE SOUND OF MOOSIC.

This just in... the picture taken today. Not black deer! Thanks to the Fullertons for the picture! Apparently they were headed to fish camp... uh... hook 'em.

RARE BLACK DEER SIGHTING!

During our walks thru Spanish Oaks we have seen on 2 occasions a Melanistic (black) deer. He is a beauty. Both times we have seen him over by the new section, and normally with a several does. I have attached an article that talks about how rare they are.

Best

Stu Fullerton

4709 Malaquita Br.

Dark Deer
The opposite of albinos, melanistic deer can be found in a small segment of the Hill Country.

By Ben Rehder

Use the phrase “albino deer” in a conversation, and most people will know you’re referring to a white deer, one without any pigment in its hair or skin. But mention a “melanistic deer” and you’re likely to receive looks of uncertainty — even from experienced hunters, hikers and campers. It stands to reason, because these unusual deer are even less common than their albino cousins.

Simply put, a melanistic, or “black,” deer is one whose body produces excessive amounts of the pigment known as melanin, resulting in an animal that’s much darker than we’ve come to expect. Unlike albinism, which is an all-or-nothing proposition (albino animals are either white or they aren’t), melanism is a continuum, with deer that range from chocolate brown to jet black.

While melanistic deer are quite rare across North America, Central Texas, by comparison, has more than its fair share. In fact, according to John Baccus, director of the wildlife ecology program at Texas State University and an 11-year researcher of melanistic deer, there are more black deer in an area comprised of eight Texas counties (Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe, Hays, Travis and Williamson) than in the rest of the world combined. Still, don’t expect to step out your back door and see one.

“Even though we have more melanistic deer here than in the whole world,” says Baccus, “they’re still extremely rare. It’s the rarest of the white-tailed deer, even rarer than the big-antlered deer. I get the harvest records every year from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and generally, there are fewer than five of these melanistic deer that are harvested in any given year.”

The question that immediately springs to mind is, What causes melanism? Nobody knows for certain, but it could be that the mutation offers a survival advantage in heavily wooded riparian environments.

Baccus says, “All of these [melanistic] deer have been associated with a drainage in which you have greater subdued light from the trees in the area. A deer that’s darker in color would get a certain degree of camouflage from the dark shadowing.”

Indeed, you might hike past a melanistic deer and not even realize it. Baccus remembers one black deer that his team spotted in Lakeway, near Lake Travis. “This was the middle of the afternoon, bright sunlight, and this deer was back up in some cedar trees. The only way we knew that deer was there was because one of the students picked up on the glistening from the wet nose.”

For hunters, a melanistic deer represents a true once-in-a-lifetime trophy. Even in Central Texas, most avid hunters have never spotted, much less harvested, one. Austin resident Steve Deis is one of the lucky ones. Hunting on a large ranch just minutes west of Austin, he bagged an eight-point melanistic buck on Christmas Day in 1998.

“I’ve always looked for things that are a little unusual,” says Deis. “I didn’t want a normal white-tailed deer with 10 points, I wanted something different, and I guess this was my Christmas present that year.”

RANDOM THOUGHTS

I wonder how the open houses went? I do know certain large/high-end agents in the vicinity didn't even know about it!

If, as I don't, you also don't take the back road often, you might be amazed at the progress back there! One question is what that pad is - for want of a better description - on the west side? It looks industrial, like a refueling station. Appears permanent too.

There are a lot of visible deer back there at night. Invisible deer are there full time.

It's also good to know there apparently haven't been any new accidents at east entrance/exit and 71 in quite a while!

If you haven't discovered the shop that sells gourmet meals - I think it's called Anja's... in the lower shopping center (the one with Lowes) be sure to check it out -it's almost at the end of the road as you drive west inside the development... the food is very good! We also look forward to new quick restaurants in the HC Galleria!

Interesting to note The Smashing Pumpkins playing at The Backyard - back in, I think it was 1998, they played downtown for free in Minneapolis, and must have drawn 60,000 or more.

If anyone is into what is called high-end audiophile gear, I am too, and would love to form a group of Oakians to visit each other's rigs to enjoy some music... from time to time. Please allow me to pimp myself - I now write reviews for an online mag called UltraAudio: www.ultraaudio.com

Contact me at rwood24@Austin.rr.com if your midlife crisis took you to music instead of the dark side.

BOB SCHNEIDER AT GALLERIA

Blur-O-Vision shot and recreation of Bob on stage helping celebrate the opening of Hill Country Galleria.

Later he told the appreciative crowd that he "lived about a mile from here" and that "today he found a tarantula in his garage and "he preferred the people-to-spider ratio of the audience."

THE MALL THE MALL THE MALL

Hill Country Galleria is now OPEN! Obviously not all stores are in yet, but the movie theatres are (that's the spelling... Canadian, British, and now, Bee Caveish!)

DILLARDS pre-opened last week.

Last night the town council... no, CITY council, gathered to open the new City Hall with a ribbon cutting ceremony, food, fireworks, and general sighs of relief. See the BEE CAKE above which was wonderful!

It's the 20th anniversary of Bee Cave, though the indians go back hundreds of years.

REAL ESTATE
Tomorrow the gates of Spanish Oaks will be thrown open to Those Who Wish To See The Homes On View. If you are an owner you should have received word of this by email. If not, you aren't opted in.

NEW BULLETIN BOARD (update)

COMMUNICATION.

There's this blog, which I started, in order to get better communication going among residents. Especially as the west side develops, I think it serves a purpose. To clear up any possible misunderstanding, the blog is mine. I do it, edit it, choose what's on it. I see this blog as maybe a little more lighthearted than THE NEWS. It's open to the world.

If you wish, you can start a blog too - they are free.

We also have an HOA opt-in weekly (almost) E-newsletter. Material on this goes through the HOA BOD, or at least PAM.

However, there now seems to be an unfilled area - and so we are opening a page on the HOA website as a BULLETIN BOARD forum for your needs, comments, whatever. Once it starts up (your input will be the content) we can see how it goes, and what you want next.

Since anyone can post, once they access the site, there will have to be rules of civility, and posts will be pulled if they violate the 'rules.' The rules will come down from above... and will be on the site when ready. Stone tablets are being prepared.

Meanwhile I'll get the forum up and ready and will let you know when 'the doors open.' It all depends on how easily the forum program integrates into our website program and the server.

DOG PARK?

Tanya Streeter asked that I send an email out to our opt-in list, which I did. Perhaps you saw it - asking about the interest for a dog park on property somewhere?

Well, I apparently shouldn't have used THAT medium for THAT communication, so allow me to apologize if anyone was offended beyond the officialdom. This blog is more appropriate for those things - the opt in email is more of an organ for the HOA. And the HOA hadn't been involved up front.

I'll now muzzle myself and won't write what I am thinking, sparing you all.

"Don't forget to email Tanya Streeter tstreeter@austin.rr.com to voice your support for the proposed Spanish Oaks Dog Park. The only way it will happen is if we all keep asking for it!"

If that.

DESIGN REVIEW QUIZ

Does this house violate or ignore Spanish Oaks guidelines?
Pro:
No trash container visible from street.
No basketball hoop.
Indigenous plantings outside of house envelope have been left intact
Earth tones or darn close. (Gold comes from earth; white is apparently exempt.)
30 foot height limit (from street).
No dogs off leash.
No antennae.

Con:
20 cycle note from twin stack organ pipes causes earthquakes, disturbs neighbors, and makes dogs bark within 5 miles.

PERFECT YOUTH

He won't appreciate it till later in life, but this could be one of the best days. Carefree at sunset, waiting for the big one. It really doesn't get any better!

ENOUGH TO MAKE A BIRD CHIRP!

Today's inspirational picture via telephone-cam offers the glory of another Hill Country Sunrise. Streaks of ragweed pollen are visib...no, wait, that's not it.

OPEN HOUSE FRENZY

In a roundabout way, we learned of the plan; even though this is a partnership with the HOA, as far as I know, the HOA didn't. At least we the people didn't. It's a lot like the government today.

The Spanish Oaks Sales Office, partnering with the Homeowner's Association, will be hosting a series of three community open home events.

Kid Kool-Aid prices will be set at $5/glass. Whoa. There I go again.

Sunday, October 28th.
Sunday, November 18th.
Sunday, December 16th.

All are 11A-2PM.

Food by MariLou's truck. Sorry. I couldn't help myself.

All listing agents within Spanish Oaks have apparently been invited to participate.

There won't be signs at 71 and it seems this will be restricted to lookie-lous who sign up in advance via the Realtors. Note to the right on the blog you can access all homes for sale here to snoop pricing.

LOCAL BOY MAKES GOOD

I am kidding a little. This item ran in the American Statesman Friday and was carried all over Texas. Tim is a local resident in S.O.

One of Texas' favorite sons would be turning 100 next year. And although Lyndon B. Johnson isn't around anymore, everyone is invited to celebrate his life and legacy.

A year of symposiums, exhibits and activities in Texas and Washington, D.C., will cover Johnson's boyhood in the Hill Country, his time in Congress, his presidency and the continuing impact of his policies. Johnson's birthday is Aug. 27.

'It is my hope that this ... celebration will rekindle in all of us the commitment to righting the wrongs that still exist in the country my grandfather loved,' said Nicole Covert, a granddaughter of the late president, unveiling the logo for his centennial birthday celebration with creative director Tim Sabo.

While blogging about the Johnson's - next weekend is the annual Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower center plant sale. We'll be there looking for the species cantkillium deerdonteatthemisis.

COYOTES

Our home faces the Preserve. The other couple of days we heard coyote yips and howls from that general direction. I'm just writing this for those who might be inclined to leave little Muffy the dog out behind an invisible fence when you aren't around, especially in the evening.

When we lived elsewhere we saw a pack of coyotes run by the house one night. They can be silent and move very quickly.

NOT MUCH TO REPORT

Some road patching is ahead - unsure exactly where, but watch for it.

If you feel the gate guards are not responding to your voicemails or are letting vendors in without calling you, please report this to Pam or Donald.

Yesterday a firetruck and ambulance circled Paraiso and Musket Rim looking for their right address. It was a building site - never do find out what happened or who it happened to.

GOD'S FINGERPRINT OVER SPANISH OAKS

OUR OWN MUD DISTRICT

Spanish Oaks Opens New Road

Road patch crew unload half a load of excuses.

The intel: They finally patched a hole in the (still unnamed) street.
After finishing the job...the asphalt truck's brakes collapsed, flew down the road and ALMOST took out a car. The truck swerved into the landscaping and managed its way out eventually.

Heck of a job, fellas!

OUT AND ABOUT

There hasn't been much action - no posts for a week at least - we were away in Santa Fe. Locally, there's no news other than a few divorces which aren't appropriate for the purposes of this blog.

Notice how some truck drivers simply can't stay on the road as they leave deep ruts here and there - I wonder if that's just some sort of contempt?

It seems that every time we pull in there's another new guard!

Some cooler evenings and nights have given us some beautiful dog-walkin' morning weather. I snapped the picture above with my phone... wish it had better detail. I hope you can appreciate the moment.

The coalition of whatever its called for Highway 71 got some great press in The View, local Lake Travis and area paper. One of the points made was that there could be a permanent turn lane... IN SEVEN YEARS!!!

Interesting, isn't it, as they redo 71 at Bee Caves road. And surprise of all surprises, the Bee Caves parkway project seems to have helped traffic flow control on 620, Bee Caves and 71!!!

The mall is starting to look less like a construction project and more like what it will become. Barnes and Noble, here I come!

As always, your contributions are more than welcome.