ocotillo voted best community in arizona! ocotillooca-az.com/oca/phocadownloadpap/04-2013.pdf ·...

The Ocotillo Community Association 1

OcOtillO VOted Best cOmmunity in ArizOnA!

OcotilloCommunity Association Magazine Issue 4 / 2013

The

The OCA 2014 Budget

The OCA Annual Community Garage Sale Info

Ten “Do It Yourself” Holiday Gift Ideas

ColorFree Pentair

LeD Light with New Pool Purchase

New Pools • CommerCial • sPas • FurNiture • laNdsCaPiNg

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Visit our showroom toDay!

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LiFetime warranty Financing aVaiLabLe energy eFFicient equiPment

3751 South Clubhouse DriveChandler, Arizona 85248

480.917.6660www.OcotilloGolf.com

The Valley’s Best 19th Hole3 years in a row!

As voted by readers of Arizona Foothills Magazine.

2 Issue 4 / 2013

To be informed on community happenings and news please sign up for auto-email notification by visiting the Ocotillo website www.oca-az.com.

21

Table of Contents… Issue 4 / 2013

Your Hoa… 4 Meet the Board

2013/2014 Board Meeting Dates and Events Calendar

2014 Annual Meeting – Save the Date

Nominations for The OCA Board of Directors

5 Board Profile

President’s Message

6 Premier Community Management, Inc. Staff

Attention Residents Sign Up & WIN!

7 Manager’s Message

The OCA Board of Directors

8 OCA 2014 Monthly Assessments

The Ocotillo Community Association

Home and Landscape… 18 The Ocotillo Community Association Facility Maintenance Department

Special Landscape Maintenance Requirements for Lake Property Owners

20 Nice Yard Award

Compliance & Helpful Info…

22 Compliance Corner

Whom Should I Contact If…

Features… 16 Ten DIY Holiday Gift Ideas

The Official Magazine of The Ocotillo Community Association

This magazine is delivered to all homeowners and businesses in the The Ocotillo Community Association quarterly. This magazine is also distributed to surrounding businesses and office complexes. You have received this publication because your HOA believes you take pride in your home environment and community. This magazine provides you with HOA information and home product advertising that enhances your home comfort and increases the value of your home. We are always interested in your comments or suggestions.

While efforts to ensure accuracy are exercised, the publisher assumes no liability for the information contained in either editorial or advertising content. For comments, sugges-tions and editorial information please email [email protected]. For advertis-ing information please call 480-634-1708 or visit valhalla360.com.

The Ocotillo Community Association does not endorse any commercial products or infor-mation that may be advertised in the newsletter

Editor: Lory Lasica, President

Bluewater Consulting, LLC

In Every Issue… 14 Community Map

28 Helpful Numbers

29 Product & Service Directory

Support Local, Shop ocotillo…

10 Support Local, Shop Ocotillo

16

Holiday Light Contest

News From ocotillo Golf Resort…

12 Santa Claus is Coming to Town…

Holiday Safety Tips

Ten “Do It Yourself” Holiday Gift Ideas

Community Events… 21 The Ocotillo Holiday Decoration Contest

The Ocotillo Association’s Annual Community Garage Sale

Chandler’s Science Spectacular!

ValhallaCommunity Magazineswww.Valhalla360.com

Community Interest… 23 Preventing the Flu: Get Vaccinated!

24 Tips for Safe Online Giving

Programs to Help Ensure a Safe New Year

26 Steps in Preventing Identity Theft

27 Best Valentine’s Day Gift Ever!

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Bloomington, IL1101001.1

Debbie Wiltse FLMI CLU, Agent4980 S Alma School Road, Suite A6

Chandler, AZ 85248Bus: 480-792-9468

www.debbiewiltse.com

4 Issue 4 / 2013

Nominations for The OCA Board of DirectorsThe Ocotillo Community Association Nominating Committee will be accepting nominations in February 2014 from individuals interested in serving on the Board. There will be three Board positions up for election this year. The Committee shall make as many nominations for election to the Board of Directors as determined in their discretion, but will nominate no fewer than three candidates to fill the three Board vacancies at the April 29, 2014 election.

If interested, please submit a written bio no later than March 7, 2014. Bios may be e-mailed to [email protected], faxed to 480-704-2905, or mailed to:

The OCA Attn: Pat Wontor 3930 S. Alma School Road, Suite 10 Chandler, AZ 85248

2014 AnnuAl MeeTing – SAve The DATeIn accordance with the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of The Ocotillo Community Association, the 2014 Annual Meeting of the Members of the Association will be held on:

Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.The purpose of the meeting is to report on the 2013 business of the Association and to elect three (3) members to the Board of Directors.

Mark the date on your calendar and plan to join us at the meeting!

MISSION STATEMENT:

The Ocotillo Community Association is committed to providing the highest quality of community living to our residents and owners through an aesthetically pleasing, well-maintained environment. The Ocotillo Community Association and its management staff will provide the most prudent, ethical, team-oriented, creative, state-of-the-art management to enhance our community and demonstrate fiscal responsibility by managing current expenditures, while planning for the future.

Mike PalermoPresident

Wally BrownVice President

Board Meeting Dates and events Calendar 2013/2014

The open session meetings will continue to be held at the First Federal Credit Union located at 3800 S alma School on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 4:30 p.m.

The oCa Board Meeting Dates for 2013/2014 are:

DeCeMBeRNo BoD MEETING

JAnuARY28TH BoD MEETING

FeBRuARY25TH BoD MEETING The BoD meeting dates are also posted on the Ocotillo website www.oca-az.com


Suellen ToddTreasurer

Susana LewisSecretary

Meet the BoardYour Hoa…

Cliff JonesDirector

The OcotilloCommunity Association


You had a very interesting childhood, can you tell us about that? I was born in Buenos aires, argentina and came to the United States as a child in the 1960’s. as an immigrant, I was raised to truly appreciate america the Beautiful and all the grand opportunities this Country has to offer. I was so proud of becoming an american and it

was an exciting time in my life, even though I did not speak any English, but my sister and I were determined to learn our new language, which we did very quickly.

Prior to arriving in Dallas, Texas, my family lived in Benghazi, Libya for one year. By the time I was seven years old, I had already lived on three continents, and at one time had a pet monkey and two pure bred German Shepherds. I definitely enjoyed a unique, and a little bit crazy, upbring-ing, but if not for my mother’s courage to seek a better life, I would not be where I am today.

Tell us about your professional background in the legal field. I attended Ursuline academy in Dallas and eventually became a legal secretary at a small, but prestigious downtown law firm. When I met my future husband, Mark, and followed him here to arizona, I went to work for the third largest law firm in arizona at the time. I have always enjoyed the legal field and in particular, helping clients navigate through the complex legal system. I am currently working as an assistant/para-legal at a law firm in Gilbert. It gives me a sense of fulfillment to know that I can guide and comfort people who are going through stressful legal situations.

What is most important to you in life? Family and Faith are the two most important things in my life. My husband, Mark, and I have been married for over 24 years and have two daughters, Marisa and Erica, who are both currently attending Valley colleges. I had the good fortune to be able to stay at home with our daughters while they were young and that was a very special time in my life. I am grateful for being able to raise our daughters in ocotillo.

What are some of your interests? after the girls were in school full time, I did become certified in Interior Redesign and was able for a time to enjoy some artistic pursuits, which run deep in my family. I come from a long line of artists and one of my uncles is a very famous working artist in Buenos aires. how long have you lived in Ocotillo? We have lived here since 1997 and we absolutely love our beautiful community, and have met so many wonderful, caring people.

how long have you been a board member and what motivated you to run? I have been a board member since 2009 and I had decided to run because I felt it was important to give back. I also wanted to be an advocate for the homeowners. I have always been the kind of per-son who not only appreciates, but demands justice. I also would agree wholeheartedly with Wally Brown in his assessment about Premier Management and Pat Wontor. They are the best, and Pat is an incred-ible asset to our community, and makes our role as board members much more pleasant.

Since family and children are so important to you, what advice would you give to new parents? Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, it is not a sign of weakness or defeat, and just as importantly, do not take personally the crazy, frustrating things your children do as they go through their different stages. It is perfectly normal for a two year old to throw a temper tantrum. It’s nothing personal.

www.oca-az.com

Dear Residents and Neighbors,

Happy holidays are just around the corner! Can you believe how fast this year has passed now that Thanksgiving is over and the holidays are (almost) here!? Time f lies when you’re having fun. Your Board wants to extend a sincere “thanks” for your support and has pro-vided an update regarding the 2014 budget and master assessments. To get that news, please read Suellen Todd’s article, (oCa 2014 Monthly assessments), on the financial well being of our associa-tion.

Except for those of us on automatic withdrawal, assessment pay-ment coupons (for 2014) will be mailed in early December to each oCa homeowner. Note that assessments are used only for common areas owned by The oCa. The ocotillo Golf Resort is privately owned and The oCa has no financial responsibility for its opera-tion or maintenance. also, the budget discussed above only applies to the master association and its special use areas. If you live in a sub-association, look to your sub-association’s board of directors for information on 2014 budget and assessments.

Not much new to report on SRP since the last email blast. SRP has postponed announcing the 230 KVa routes in until august 2014. To that end, SRP is working with the Gila River Indian Community to route the overhead lines on their land. The oCa will keep you informed of breaking news, in the meantime check the SRP website related to this issue: http://www.azpower.org/priceroadcorridor/.

Good news on the development front:• Weexpecttohaveonenewprojectunderwayyetthisyear.Villa

Del Lago by Standard Pacific Homes is located at Dobson and ocotillo Road and will consist of 85 single family cluster homes.

• Inearly2014DMBisscheduledtostartconstructiontheVillageHealth Club located at the southwest corner of alma School and ocotillo Road, a long awaited addition to ocotillo.

• Anewtownhouseprojectisbeingplannedforthesoutheastcor-ner of Dobson and Market Place. Public meetings to introduce the project will be announced via email blast.

• Andfinally,acondominiumdevelopmentiscomingsoontoDowntown ocotillo. Public meetings to introduce the project will be announced via email blast (sign up for these email notifi-cations at ‘oca-az.com’).

• 2014willbeabusyyearasweexpecttheannouncementofmoredevelopment in ocotillo.

on an historical note, since 1985 ocotillo and adjacent communi-ties have conserved billions of gallons of fresh water (approximately 2.5 billion annually) by using reclaimed water for irrigation or other industrial needs. Included in this conservation effort are onsite and adjacent apartment, commercial, industrial and agricultural lands. For the past 20 plus years, The oCa has done more to conserve fresh water than any other community in arizona. Each year The oCa and its members preserve approximately 500 million gallons of fresh water for future generations by using reclaimed water for irrigation or other industrial needs. as a reminder, do not drink from these irrigation systems or swim in any of the lakes or convey-ance systems. I would ask you to read the article, Special Landscape Maintenance Rules for Lake Property Owners. It provides important information on how your association is managed and how we all can help keep assessments low. Large or small, all of us can make a

President’s Message

Mike PalermoPresident

BOARD PROFile

Susana lewisSecretary of The Ocotillo Community Association, Board of Directors

continued on page 6

6 Issue 4 / 2013

Your Hoa…

Premier Community Management3930 S. alma School Rd., Ste. 10Chandler, aZ 85248

office: 480-704-2900Fax: 480-704-2905Facility Maintenance: 480-802-7669Website: www.oca-az.com

Brandon Flavin Supervisor

(FMD) Facilities Maintenance Department

Pat Wontor General Manager

The ocotillo Community association

Dana Stevens assistant Manager


Beth Rose Compliance Manager


Would YoU like to WIN a $25 gift certificate to lunch at a local restaurant?

You can, just by signing up to be on The ocotillo Community association’s email notification and / or sign up for direct debit for your monthly assessments. There will be a monthly drawing. one winner per month. Winner will be notified via email and will appear in an upcoming ocotillo magazine.

Please visit www.oca-az.com today to sign up.

To be the first to know about news, events, and information pertaining to the ocotillo Community, please sign up to receive emails at www.oca-az.com. Your emails are not shared or sold.

Congratulations to the following homeowners… AuguST 2013 AuTO DeBiT SePTeMBeR 2013 AuTO eMAil James & Christine Walker Betsy MosherCorona Del Mar II Carmel Bay OCTOBeR 2013 AuTO DeBiT Yingfei WangBalboa Point

Attention Residents

Chuck Lewis on-Site Supervisor

aaa Landscape


valuable contribution, such as signing up for E-mail notification or direct debit for monthly assessments. This saves you and The oCa money by reducing printing and mailing costs. all information is private and will never be disclosed to another party. The Board and management look forward to your participation and collaboration, so please keep your constructive comments coming in by using the association’s web site at “oca-az.com”.

as we prepare to celebrate the upcoming holi-days with family and friends let’s remember the people and events that inspire us to ref lect on what is important in our life and how we can help others. on behalf of your Board of Directors and staff, we wish everyone a safe and happy season!

Best Wishes,Mike Palermo President, The oCa

President’s Message continued from page 5


www.oca-az.com

The winter f lowers are blooming, the winter grass is green, and the cooler weather of our arizona winter has arrived! and once again we continue our preparations for the holiday season ahead.

It’s always exciting to anticipate the upcoming holiday lighting contest as participa-tion grows and is more creative and elaborate each year. This year we have new neighborhoods joining in the decorating fun! The Board will again judge the Holiday Lighting Contest the week of December 9th, with prizes awarded for the Best Lighting, Best Animation, Best Overall and Most Creative Use of Lights. We encourage our sub-associations to decorate their entrances … it’s a great way to show off your creativity and neighborhood pride. There will again be a winner selected for the Best Sub-Association Entrance, so gather your neighbors, start the hot chocolate and cider, get creative, and join in the holiday fun!

Your Board of Directors has adopted The oCa Budget for 2014. In the process, prior expenditures are reviewed along with the income and expenses expected for the coming year. as a result, the Board determined the 2014 monthly assessment for the master association will remain at $56.50, and the monthly eff luent assess-ment will remain at $6.00. owners in the Corona del Mar, Cottonwood Springs, The Estates, Greenbriar, Spyglass Bay and Vistas Special Use areas will not see an assessment increase in 2014, while those living in The Peninsula will see a small increase in their Special Use area assessment for the coming year. The annual budget notice with a detailed assessment breakdown, along with payment coupons, will be mailed in early December. If you’re using an on-line bill pay method, remember to check and ensure you’re sending the correct assessment amount and using the correct mailing address before making your January payment.

as the landscape along Dobson Road continues to change with new development projects, we extend a warm welcome to those of you who are new to The ocotillo community! I hope you find comfort in your new home, and should you have any questions about your new surroundings, you are always welcome to contact the ocotillo staff at Premier Community Management for information and assistance. We can all be reached at 480-704-2900, and we look forward to meeting and get-ting to know our new residents. Forms, documents, and community information can also be found on our web site at www.oca-az.com

on behalf of your Board of Directors, Facilities and Management staff, I would like to thank everyone for your participation and continued support throughout this past year, and for your many contributions that continue to make ocotillo a very special community! Wishing you a safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Pat Wontor, CaaM General Manager The ocotillo Community association

Manager’s Message

Pat WontorGeneral Manager

August 2013 Board received presentation from DMB and Village Racquet Club representatives regarding their pending development at the southwest corner of alma School and ocotillo Roads.

Board approved contract with Holiday Magic for holiday lighting at main monument and Sandpiper entrances in the amount of $3,525.

September 2013 Board approved contract with Phoenix Paving for asphalt replacement in Sunset Shores and Edgewater Parks in an amount not to exceed $34,000.

Board reviewed 2014 Draft Budget, which included no proposed master association assessment or eff luent increases and possible assessment increase for one or two of the Special Use areas.

Board approved new engine for FMD Isuzu truck at a cost of $6,400.

October 2013 Board approved 2014 Budget with no assessment or eff luent increase for the master association. Total budget is $2,767,902.

Six of the seven Special Use area assessments remain the same for 2014, with only the Peninsula requiring an increase (2%) of $1.00 per month.

Board approved Management to further pursue efforts with Event Planner to plan function(s) for 2014. Winterfest will not be held this December.

Board set date for annual Meeting on april 29, 2014.

The OCA Board of DirectorsActions and Approvals

8 Issue 4 / 2013

Your Hoa…OCA 2014 Monthly Assessments

at the october 22, 2013 ocotillo Community association (oCa) open session meeting, the Board of Directors (BoD) approved the budget for 2014.

The oCa BoD spent several months studying the results of recent reserve studies, 2013 actual expenditures, and updated quotes and bids and used that information to forecast expenses for 2014. The goal has been to establish a budget that will allow the oCa to maintain its reputation as a leader in the Southeast Valley while managing community expenses in the most cost efficient manner for its residents.

Depending on where you live, your total monthly assessment is comprised of one to four assessments: master association assessment which everyone pays, special use area (SUa) assessment, eff luent assessment and sub-association assessment. The sum of the assess-ments applicable to your property determines the amount of your total monthly assessment.

The income received from these assessments is allocated into either operating funds or reserve funds. The operating funds are used to pay for ongoing up-keep such as tree and plant trimming/removal, turf maintenance and winter over-seeding, seasonal f lowers, lake upkeep, pump station maintenance, upkeep of signs, monuments and walls and the management of all administration related to assessments, design reviews and CC&R compliance. The reserve funds are monies set aside to pay for large, infrequent purchases such as replacing granite, pumps and valves, parks/playground equipment, repairing walls, etc.

The assessment for the master association will not increase for 2014. It will remain at $56.50 per month. Even though certain line item expenses in the budget will increase in 2014, they are offset by decreases in other expenses and an increase in income.

There are seven communities within ocotillo that also pay a SUa assessment in addition to the master assessment. These communi-ties include: Corona Del Mar, Estates, Greenbriar, Cottonwood Springs, Peninsula, Spyglass Bay and Vistas. These communities have their own common areas that need to be maintained. Some of the SUas are gated which requires the SUa to maintain such things as the gates, streets and street lights. The BoD reviewed the operating and reserve funds for each SUa with careful consideration to future expenditures and determined that no assessment increase was necessary for Corona del Mar, Cottonwood Springs, The Estates, Greenbriar, Spyglass Bay and the Vistas. a small increase was necessary to cover the increased water, electricity, gate maintenance and reserve contribu-tion costs for the Peninsula.

The monthly assessment for eff lu-ent water will remain at $6.00 per month for 2014.

For those residents who live in a sub-association, look for commu-nication from your sub-association BoD on your sub-association assess-ments. Per the CC&R’s, the oCa BoD has no responsibility or control

over sub-association finances.

a summary of the changes from the 2013 to 2014 oCa budgets for each of the assessment elements is shown in the following table.

The oCa BoD continues to work on behalf of all oCa members in an effort to keep ocotillo a beautiful community that we are proud to live in. We are confident the 2014 budget is prudent, frugal and will continue the oCa’s track record of maintaining a strong financial position.

Respectfully, Suellen ToddTreasurer, The ocotillo Community association

Assessment2013

Monthly Amount

2014 Monthly Amount

Monthly Amount Change

Percent Change

Master $56.50 $56.50 $0.00 0%

SUA: Cotton-wood Springs $16.50 $16.50 $0.00 0%

SUA: Corona Del Mar $14.75 $14.75 $0.00 0%

SUA: Estates $55.50 $55.50 $0.00 0%

SUA: Greenbriar $19.20 $19.20 $0.00 0%

SUA: Peninsula $46.00 $47.00 $1.00 2.1%

SUA: Spyglass Bay $5.50 $5.50 $0.00 0%

SUA: Vistas $85.00 $85.00 $0.00 0%

Effluent $6.00 $6.00 $0.00 0%

10 Issue 4 / 2013

The Ocotillo Golf Resort Clubhouse Dr. Bernard’s the Restaurant at ocotillo 480-917-6660 The ocotillo Golf Resort Pro Shop 480-917-6660

The Falls @ Ocotillo SW Corner of Alma School Rd & Queen Creek Rd advanced Back and Neck 480-814-7115 audio Video Editor 480-726-8300 Boutique 610 480-855-0610 Chamberlain orthodontics 480-899-9423 Chandler Dental Health 480-899-6677 Coldwell Banker 480-899-1808 Cyprus Grill 480-722-9068 Grimaldi’s Pizza 480-947-7100 Jersey Mike’s Sub shop JP Morgan dba Bank one 480-890-6500 Keegan’s 480-814-0003 Lawyers Title 480-899-0799 LaBella Day Spa & Salon 480-726-9700 Paradise Bakery & Café 480-782-5355 Pei Wei asian Diner 480-812-2230 Starbucks 480-899-9295 StudioFIT 480-855-3005 Wealth Trust of arizona 480-483-7300 Yollipop 480-478-0889

NW Corner Alma School & Ocotillo Rd anytime Fitness 480-224-4900 D’Vine Wine Bar & Bistro 480-782-5550 Holiday Inn at ocotillo 480-203-2121

Downtown Ocotillo SW Corner Queen Creek & Dobson Rd Courtyard Interiors and Design CHoP Mesquite Grill 480-821-0009 Fresh & Easy 480-857-2868 Leidan Mitchell Salon & Spa 480-857-4200 Marreel / Slater Insurance Port of Subs 480-917-7827 Stephanie Walker, DDS 480-855-8900 Sauce 480-388-3640 Studios of ocotillo Sushi Room 480-821-9000 The Living Room 480-855-2848

Ocotillo Fiesta SE Corner Alma School Rd & Queen Creek Rd albertsons 480-899-7102 albertsons Compass Bank 480-821-1917 Bank of america 480-726-3630

Blockbuster 480-786-3619 Delia’s Cleaners 480-855-9270 Desert Valley Family Medicine 480-899-4113 Dominos Pizza 480-786-3338 Great Clips 480-855-5619 Kristyn’s Hallmark 480-963-8229 Hi-health 480-857-8825 Chandler Nails 480- 899-1911 McDonalds 480-857-8711 Mikado Sushi 480-726-0255 Nationwide Vision 480-917-8964 ocotillo Dental Care 480-855-1994 Pet Club (Natural Pet Food) 480-821-7387 PostNet 480-917-2468 Radio Shack 480-857-8440 Rakhman Jewelers 480-857-9707 Salon orozco 480-821-0081 State Farm Insurance 480-855-0665 Subway 480-726-9015

The Ocotillo Professional Building NW Corner Sandpiper & Alma School Rd Foothills Sports Medicine Physical Therapy 480-782-7831 Monte B. Wells, DDS - Family and Cosmetic Dentistry 480-857-3333

The Fountains @ Ocotillo NW Corner Desert Gull & Alma School Rd aZ Internal Medicine aztec optical 480-786-6086 Cosmetic Surgical art Center 480-814-1112 Fiesta Dental 480-726-0360 Fountains Family Care 480- 222-8083 Giammarco Law offices 480-722-0103 Keller Williams Legacy one Realty 480-444-7200 LPL Financial CPa 480-722-0202 Marc J. Victor, P.C. attorney at Law ocotillo Eyecare 480-812-3937 Pinnacle Physical Therapy 480-899-9829 Premier Community Management 480-704-2900 Security Title agency Sonoran Sports and Family Medicine 480-802-1300 Swagel Wooton Hiatt Eye Center 480-786-3937 Wachovia Securities

Aquila At Ocotillo SE Corner Price and Queen Creek Rd 360 Vantage absolute Benefits Solutions, Shelly Guerra (Health Insurance) aIT (advanced Intergraded Technologies) allstate (Bob Gallego) 480-820-0808

Support Local, Shop ocotillo…

www.oca-az.com

alpha & omega Financial Group aZ, LLC (Insurance and Financial Company) aquila Dental 480-812-2800 Basinger advisory Group - David Basinger, CFP® Brown and Little P.L.C. (Criminal Defense attorneys) Chandler Data Professionals (Computer Data Recover) Chandler Neurology and Sleep Do associates PC 480-722-0239 Chandler Psychiatry PLLC 480-722-0239 Great Southwest Mortgage (Sarah 480-266-7827 or Melanie 602-369-7157) Goldbahr Real Estate 480 786-3874 Invenio Search Group (National technology-focused recruiting firm) Personal Journeys/Dalena Watson, LPC, FaMI, MT-BC (Mental Health/Wellness Counseling) Metro Phoenix Properties, Real Estate 520-568-9060 Ross Campbell Realty (Real Estate) Stewart Life & Trust of Phoenix The Lakeside Suites at ocotillo 480-855-2300 Wright Engineers 480-483-6111

Ocotillo Shopping Center SW Corner of Powell Way & Alma School Rd a-1 Cleaners apex Chiropractic 480-895-3775 Baskin Robbins Ice Cream Bonworth 480-883-8434 CMG Care Today Clinic (urgent care clinic) Edward Jones H & R Block 480-802-4203 Jones Family Dentistry 480-895-9331 Kelly Nails & Spa 480-833-8396 Kumon (Math, Reading, Success) McDonalds ocotillo Barber Shop 480-895-5548 Papa John’s 480-505-1704 Safeway Gas Safeway Starbucks Safeway Wells Fargo State Farm (Debbie Wiltse 480-792-9468) The Salon at ocotillo 480-883-8648 The UPS Store Washington Federal Savings

JOSEPH VIJUNGCO, MD

Dr. Viungco is a board certified vascular and endovascular surgeon.

He was awarded “America’s Top Surgeon” by the Consumers’ Council of America in 2010.

He was nominated for the Guardian Award at Banner Heart Hospital in 2012 for his commitment to excellence in medicine by exemplifying the virtues

of wisdom, warmth, strength, integrity, and gentleness.

Dr. Vijungco has expert knowledge in the surgical treatment of many vascular diseases such as:

Varicose Veins Peripheral Vascular Disease Stroke Limb Swelling Aneurysms Dialysis Access

Most Insurances Accepted

Discover Vein and Vascular Center

600 S. Dobson Rd., #B-10 Chandler, AZ 85224

P: 480.745.8577 F: 480.745.8677

New Satellite Office (SW corner of Higley & Baseline)

4915 E. Baseline Rd., Ste. 125 Gilbert, AZ 85234

OcOtillO

12 Issue 4 / 2013

• Treeshouldnotloseneedlesifyoutaponthetrunk

• Disposeoftreeproperly(notinthefirebarrelonNewYear’sEve) consider recycling your tree

extension Cords:

• ShouldbeUnderwritersLaboratorieslisted with the correct amperage stamped in the cord

• Donotpluganextensioncordintoanextensioncord

• Formultiplecords,useafusedpowerstrip

• Donotfold,stapleormutilatethecord(shutindoor,walkedon/driven over, under carpet)

• Donotmodifythegroundfeatureofanyelectricalcord

Candles:

Historically, December experiences double the number of home candle fires. Candle use has increased 100% in the last 5 years. over the last decade, candle fires have tripled. In 2001 alone, an estimated 18,000 home fires started by candles were reported to fire departments, an all time high. These fires resulted in 190 deaths, 1,450 injuries and an estimated property loss of $265 million (National Fire Protection association). We suggest:

• Candles should be in/on a sturdy nonf lammable container/base that is large enough to collect dripping wax

• Candles should be extinguished before you leave or go tosleep

• Candles,kidsandpetsdon’tmix.Keepthemawayfromeachother

• Neverputcandlesonatree,inwindowsornearexits

Chimneys/Fireplace Safety: maintenance, wrapping paper:

• Haveyourchimneycheckedeachyear

News From ocotillo Golf Resort…

Santa Claus is Coming to Town…Santa will be visiting ocotillo on Sunday, December 8th for his annual Santa’s Brunch

Similar to last year, kids have the opportuni-ty to take pictures with Santa, write special letters to Santa, and even take part in an arts & Crafts competition for best ornament.

For more information please visit www.ocotillogolf.com

Happy Holidays to the residents of ocotillo from the Chandler Fire Department! at this time of year we experience holiday sights, scents and sounds, the warm ambiance of candlelight and the awesome display of lights all around us.

This is the season to enjoy good times and be with family and friends. While enjoying the season most of us are not affected by holiday accidents or tragedies; and to help you keep it that way, consider the following statistics and information:

Each holiday season fires injure 2,600 individuals and cause over $930 million in damage. (United States Fire administration) Each year, hospital emergency rooms treat about 12,500 people for falls, cuts, shocks, and burns due to incidents involving faulty holiday lights, dried-out Christmas trees and other holiday decorations (Consumer Product Safety Commission).

Christmas Trees:

The National Christmas Tree association estimates 36 million trees are sold each year. Christmas trees are involved in about 400 fires annually, resulting in 10 deaths, 80 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage. To reduce the chance of becoming a statistic, we suggest:

• Chooseafreshtree,cut1to2inchesoffofthetrunkandputit in a stand designed to support the tree, the trunk of the tree should be “mushed” to allow it to soak up water

• Place the tree away from heat sources, exits and f lammablematerials

• Water the tree daily, it will lose a ½ gallon of water a day (6’ tree)

• Check lights for damaged sockets, frayed or bare wiresand loose connections. No more than 3 strands connected together.

• Shutoffthelightsbeforeyouleaveorgotosleep

Holiday Safety Tips

continued on page 13


www.oca-az.com

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and stylish residences all designed to fi t your lifestyle.

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Call to schedule a personal tour and complimentary lunch today!

• Use only seasonedhardwood, never burn wrapping paper

• Install a carbonmonoxide detector

• Keep all combustibles at least 3 feetaway

• Never,everusef lammableliquidslikegasoline, kerosene or lantern fuel to start a fire

• Fireplace ashes should be disposed ofin a metal container with a tight fitting lid not in paper sacks, cardboard boxes or plastic trashcans.

Smoke Detectors:

Seventy percent of all home fire fatalities occur in homes where there are no smoke alarms or alarms that work. Nearly one quarter of home smoke alarms are not working. according to the NFPa, 19 out of 20 homes have at least one smoke alarm. However, four out of 10 reported home fires occurred in the small percentage of homes that did not. For your safety:

• Choose a smoke alarm that has thename of a recognized testing lab

• Install smoke alarms on every leveland outside the sleeping areas of the home (for added safety; in every room where people sleep)

• Install a new battery every year,immediately if the alarm “chirps”

• Test alarms once a month withthe test button or approved smoke substitute, clean the unit according to manufactures instructions

• Buy special smokealarms forpersonswho are deaf or hard of hearing

• Replaceyoursmokealarmswhentheyare 10 years old

• Develop an exit planwith thewholefamily

Holiay Safety Tips continued from page 12

Advertise in The Ocotillo Magazine.

Call Today! 480.634.1708

FruitHow to Select, Store & Serve These Health FoodsChef’s CornerFeaturing Chef Peter DeCarl

Head Chef at Bernard’s at OcotilloPlus…West Nile PreventionActive Homebuilders in OcotilloChandler’s Curfew Law

Should You Leverage Your Home Or Pay It Down Rapidly?By Bryan Johnson, Spectrum Financial Group

Pool and Water Safety Tips… Page 24

OcotilloCommunity Association MagazineIssue 2 / 2007

The

New Board Members

Do you want to put your company in front of The Ocotillo Community?

14 Issue 4 / 2013

Community Map…

To be informed on community happenings and news, please sign up for

auto-email notification by visiting the Ocotillo website: www.oca-az.com.


Map sponsored by Sandy and Bob Thompson

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Sandy & Bob ThompsonDirect: (480) 895-6895Cell: (480) 313-2323Email: [email protected]

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Buying or Selling, We Will Work For you!

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www.oca-az.com

16 Issue 4 / 2013

1. Cupcake Baking Kitthe36thavenue.comBe sure to include pretty baking cups, every kind of sprinkle imaginable, a tiny booklet of recipes, a squeezable icing bottle, and a frosting spatula. Stuff it all into the cutest lunch box you can find.

2. homemade vanilla extract100daysofrealfood.com“Simply slit two vanilla beans down the middle, drop them into 375ml of vodka (I used the red Smirnoff ) and within a few weeks you will have infused pure vanilla extract that someone can use in all sorts of recipes.

3. Adult hot Chocolate Kitheart-2-home.comFill a mason jar with hot chocolate mix and marshmallows. attach an “airplane size” bottle of Bailey’s Irish Cream with a pretty ribbon.

4. home-Baked Cookies in a Revamped Pringles CanFill a clean Pringles can with your favorite cookies and cover the can with construction or wrapping paper. add a bow on top and you’re set!

5. homemade Dog Treatswww.kingarthurflour.com/Best of Breed Dog BiscuitsPreheat the oven to 300°F. Lightly grease a couple of baking sheets, or line them with parchment.

Put the following in a mixing bowl:• 2cupsKingArthurWhiteWholeWheatFlouror

Premium Whole Wheat Flour• 1cuprolledoats,regularorquick• 1tablespoondriedparsleyor2tablespoonschoppedfresh

parsley

• 1/2cupBaker’sSpecialDryMilkornonfatdrymilk• 1/2teaspoonsalt

Stir to combine. add 2 large eggs and 1 cup (9 1/4 ounces) peanut butter, crunchy or plain. Stir to combine; the mixture will be crumbly. add 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon cold water, or enough to make a cohesive dough. Depending on the season, you may need to add a bit more (winter), or a bit less (summer).

To make dog cookies, drop the dough in walnut-sized balls onto a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten to about 1/4” thick.

To cut out dog bone biscuits, roll the dough about 1/4” thick. No, it’s not pretty; it’ll develop cracks all over, and very ragged edges. No worries; trust me, your dog won’t care about looks.

Cut with a 3 1/2” cutter (or the size of your choice). Gather and re-roll the scraps, and continue to cut biscuits until you’ve used all the dough.

Lay the biscuits close together on the prepared baking sheets. Since the biscuits don’t include any leavening (baking powder, yeast, etc.), they won’t spread much.

Bake the biscuits for about 40 to 60 minutes, baking the smaller cookies for the shorter amount of time, the larger biscuits for the longer amount of time.

When finished, the biscuits will be dark golden brown, and will be dry and crisp all the way through. and yes, it’s oK to break one open and taste it. If it’s good enough for Man’s Best Friend, it’s good enough for you!

6. Candy-Flavored vodkascarymommy.comYou could use candy canes or Red Hots, too. Just soak the candy of your choice in a mason jar of vodka for two days.

7. easy Cake Popscelebrationsathomeblog.comThis recipe uses refrigerated pie crust and only requires two ingredients.

Ten DIY Holiday Gift Ideas


Pie Pops• Refrigeratedpiecrust• Piefillingofyour

choice: apple, cherry, blueberry

• 6inchlollipopsticks

Begin by unrolling your prepared pie crust onto a f loured surface. You can roll it out further using a rolling pin if you like {you might get an extra circle from it}.

Use a round biscuit cutter or glass to punch out circles. You’ll need 2 circles for each pie. Place a dollop of pie filling in the center of half the circles. I suggest cutting the fruit in the filling so it’s not so chunky inside the pie pop.

Lay a lollipop stick on the fruit filled base. Wet the outer edge of the dough with a little water or egg wash, then place the next layer of crust on top. Crimp the edges with the tines of a fork to seal.

Transfer to a baking pan using a spatula, and bake according to pie crust directions or until golden brown.Let cool completely before serving.

NoTE: use the egg wash (1 beaten egg with a little water added) to paint over pie crust before baking to add a little shine.• Onceyourpiepopsarecooledyoucandressthemupwith

ribbon or twine, a small tag, etc. • Displaythesepopsuprightbyinsertingthemintosmall

bales of hay or Styrofoam that’s been covered.

8. A large Box Filled with Maple Bacon Popcornsweetpaulmag-digital.comMakes 5 cups

Ingredients5 cups popcorn½cuptoastedwholepecans4stripscookedbacon,crumbledinto½inchpieces3 tablespoons unsalted butter¾ cup maple syrup½teaspoonkoshersalt

1. In large bowl, combine popcorn, pecans and bacon.

2. In a heavy saucepan, combine butter, maple syrup and salt and bring to a boil over medium high heat.

3. once butter is melted, increase heat to high and boil without stirring for 12 to 15 minutes or until mixture reaches 280 on a candy thermometer and is golden dark brown but not burnt.

4. Quickly pour on popcorn mixture and stir with a greased spoon or spatula.

5. Spread out mixture in a single layer on a foil lined, greased baking sheet and let cool.

9. Spice Bundles for Apple Cidermarthastewart.com according to marthastewart.com: “Cut cheesecloth into two 6-inch rounds; layer. Incenter,place½-inchcinnamonstick,1 star anise, 2 pods cardamom, 4 black peppercorns, and ¼ teaspoon cloves. Tie with twine. Set several in tin, and tie with bow and holly sprig.”

10. Cinnamon honey Butter Recipealiciashomemaking.comyields 3 half pint jars

Ingredients:1 cup Honey1 cup butter, softened1 cup powdered sugar2 tsp cinnamon3 half pint canning jars

• Combineallingredientsinbowl.Usingwhiskattachmenton mixer blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides of bowl as needed.

• Userubberspatulatopourmixtureintoalargepastrybag(or Ziploc bag), cut off tip and squeeze into half pint jars. (tip: place bag in tall glass for support, or have someone hold the bag while you pour)

These would make fabulous gifts just the way they are, but add some home made pound cake or purchase a yummy bisquick mix or even a bag of bagels, put them in a cute basket with a Christmas or vintage towel and you have a fantastic gift from the heart that took less then an hour to make from start to finish!

18 Issue 4 / 2013

IMPORTANTIf you happen to see a stuck valve and water is flowing in a common area please call 480-704-2900 ANYTIME!!!

Happy Holidays to all! as part of our bi-annual fish stocking, in october, we stocked Catfish, Israeli Carp, Redear, Bluegill, Fathead Minnows, and Goldfish. Now that the cooler weather is upon us, you are likely to see our normal winter Tilapia kill. although, Tilapia are advantageous in consuming algae, one of the drawbacks is that they don’t tolerate cooler water and many will die. Keep this in mind as you see them f loating in the lakes. We, the FMD, do our best to keep the lakes clean of the f loating Tilapia. In an effort to decrease the amount seen, over the past few years, we’ve increased the amount of Catfish that we stock. They will consume the dead Tilapia on the bottom of the lakes before they begin to f loat. of course, the Catfish won’t eat them all so; give a wave and a smile when you see the lake crew out there, cleaning up. They work diligently to keep the lakes clean.

as a reminder, we occasionally find stray paddle boats and have a few, in storage, at our yard. If your boat sud-denly disappears, give us a call. We may have it or we can search for it on the lake.

Should you have any questions or concerns about the lake system, feel free to contact the FMD at 480-802-7669 or email Brandon Flavin, FMD supervisor, at b.f [email protected]


Facility Maintenance DepartmentPrepared by Brandon FlavinFMD Supervisor

Home and Landscape…

ocotillo is a community that has been carefully planned and constructed with the intention of creating a quality living envi-ronment. Clearly, the lakes, waterfalls and lush landscaping con-tribute to ocotillo being a special place to live.

By employing sound management practices, along with an increased effort by homeowners, we can all help to maintain the health of the lake system and property values in our community. Homeowners and/or their Landscape Maintenance Companies (LMC) must follow landscaping rules, since the majority of the debris in the lakes results from careless landscape maintenance practices. When these rules are adhered to, the system will oper-ate within the parameters of which it was designed. No system can be designed to compensate for carelessness. Some basic land-scape rules are:

1) Never permit grass cuttings or other landscaping debris to enter the lake. They will decompose and cause an increase in nutrients and algae growth.

2) Immediately remove any grass, landscape debris or (run-off ) silt from the lake.

3) Do not water shoreline areas for more than five min-utes at a time, or until run-off occurs. Soil will only absorb most spray irrigation for a maximum 5-7 minutes before its porosity is decreased and the remaining spray picks up silt, pesticides, and fertilizers and carries them into the lake. Providing your irrigation schedule is properly set, the use of fine mist irrigation heads will minimize run-off.

4) Do not introduce any fertilizers in the lake. This will accel-erate algae growth by raising the nitrogen, ammonia, and phosphate levels.

5) Do not use pesticides or herbicides (“chemicals”) in the immediate vicinity of the lake. Many chemicals, even in very small quantities will kill f ish or other wildlife.

6) Dumping, littering, and backwashing swimming pool and spa filtering systems into the lake, golf course, common areas, or streets is strictly prohibited.

Homeowners are subject to a fine up to $500.00 for littering the lake even if done by their LMC or tenants. Homeowners that use a LMC or lease their property are asked to share these rules with their contractor or tenant. If you witness any rule violations, please call immediately so the Facilities Maintenance Department (FMD) can take appropriate action. Feel free to contact Pat Wontor at [email protected] or call 480-704-2900 with any questions, concerns or suggestions on how the FMD can better serve our community.

Special landscape Maintenance Requirements for lake Property Owners


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20 Issue 4 / 2013

nice Yard AwardEach month nice yard letters are given to homeowners who maintain and keep up their yards.

Congratulations to this home located at 1520 S Bartlett Way

reminder…

Before doing any improvements/modifications to the exterior of your home you must have written approval from The Ocotillo Design Review Board. You can submit your plans by mailing them to:

The Ocotillo Community Association 3930 S. Alma School Road, Suite 10 Chandler, AZ 85248

Any questions please call 480-704-2900.

If you have remodeled your house or yard and would like to share your story and photos, please send them to [email protected]

Home and Landscape…


www.oca-az.com

This year’s Holiday Decoration Contest includes four categories of competition: Best overall, Best Lighting, Best animation and Most Creative Use of Lights. Each winner will receive a gift certificate to a local business.

Judging will take place the week of December 9th, so have your homes decorated by that date (no entry form is required). The judges will view all of the ocotillo communities.

also, the best decorated subdivision front entrance will be featured on The ocotillo Community association website. Encourage your subdivision to get involved!

HaPPY HoLIDaYS To aLL FRoM YoUR oCa BoaRD oF DIRECToRS.

*Winners and photos will be published in the March Edition of The Ocotillo Community Association Magazine.

The Ocotillo holiday Decoration Contest

Community Events…sAVe

tHe dAte!

The OCOTillO COMMuniTY ASSOCiATiOn’S

AnnuAl COMMuniTY garage Sale

Date: Saturday, March 1, 2014Time: 7:00AM to 2:00PM We invite you to participate in the 13th aNNUaL CoMMUNITY GaRaGE SaLE. The event is for all the residents in ocotillo.

Signs will be posted by the oCa ONLY at the MAIN ENTRY’S and at EACH SUBDIVISION ENTRANCE. Each homeowner participating will be responsible for putting up their own signs directing traffic to their home.

The oCa will advertise in all the local newspapers for this event.

There will be signs available, and anyone wishing to pick them up can stop byPremier Community Management’s (PCM) office the week of February 24th – February 28th from 8aM to 5 PM. Premier is located at 3930 S. alma School Road, Suite 10 in The Fountains at ocotillo (NW corner of ocotillo Rd. and alma School Rd north of the Holiday Inn).

If you have any questions please contact PCM at 480-704-2900.

Chandler’s Science Spectacular!Feb 20, 21, and 22, 2014

Chandler is dedicating three days to the exploration of invention. The Chandler Science Spectacular showcases the businesses, artists, students and innovators in the community as Chandler participates in the statewide arizona SciTech Festival.

These events offer unique opportunities for residents to explore the discoveries and science engineered in their own back yard.

• Thursday,Feb.20:ChandlerTechCrawl• Friday,Feb.21:ANightofArt&Science• Saturday,Feb.22:Chandler’sScienceSaturday

Chandler Science Spectacular events• ChandlerTechCrawl-Thursday,Feb.20,2014-5:30p.m.Some of the biggest names in science are opening their doors to families during the Chandler Tech Crawl. Intel and air Products, along with the laboratories at Chandler’s Innovations Incubator are hosting an open house. Get the inside scoop on how the future is being created in our own backyard. • ANightofArt&Science-Friday,Feb.21,2014 6to10p.m.Technology meets the arts as Downtown Chandler transforms its monthly Third Friday art Walk into a creative look at the science behind the food and drink, beauty, art and invention around us. Participate in discussions, exhibits, hands-on activities, shows and tours of the science behind candle making, glass blowing, oil

painting, wood burning, clay molding, and pottery making, kids crafts, and more! Chandler’s Science Saturday Saturday, Feb. 22, 201410 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Science converges in Downtown Chandler with interactive demonstrations and activities by Chandler’s technology companies, along with a showcase presentation of the most inventive student projects. Visit interactive booths and activities in Downtown Chandler along Commonwealth avenue.

Buffalo St.

Boston St.

Chicago St.

Commonwealth Ave.

Frye Rd.

Ariz

ona

Ave

.

San

Mar

cos

Pla

ce

Ariz

ona

Pla

ce

202

N

202

DowntownChandlerArt Walk

Bands

Chandler Blvd.

22 Issue 4 / 2013

With all the excitement of the holidays coming, I would like to remind you of some of The oCa Design Guidelines and Community Rules that may be important as you plan your holiday gift purchases.

Play Structures (excluding lots backed up to the golf course, lake or other common space) may be erected in rear yards, but need prior written approval from the oDRB. The maximum height, including canopy, is eight (8) feet, with no platforms being more than three (3) feet from the ground and the structure must be set back at least sixteen (16) feet from any wall or property line. Wood structures must remain natural or be painted to match the house and metal structures must be painted to match the house. Shade canopies cannot exceed twenty (20) square feet in area and must be a solid color and match the home. Multicolored plastic play structures cannot be visible from neighboring property.

Trampolines must be installed below grade and not placed above ground. Trampoline installation requires the prior written approval of the oDRB.

Portable Sports Equipment such as (but not limited to) basketball goals, hockey nets and tether ball, are allowed except on lots backing up to the golf course, lake or other open spaces and do not require written approval from the oDRB. When not in use, they do have to be stored so they are not visible from Neighboring Property.

If you are lucky enough to purchase or receive an ATV, Go-Cart, or Motorcycle, please drive with caution and remember these vehicles are not allowed on vacant parcels, common areas (including parks), bike paths and walkways.

I look forward to seeing all your holiday decorations this year … with a gentle reminder that they should all be taken down by January 15, 2014.

Please enjoy this holiday season and I thank you for helping to keep ocotillo a safe, attractive and well-maintained community! If you have questions or need assistance regarding these or any other rule and regulation, please feel free to contact me at 480-704-2900 or email at [email protected]

COMPliAnCe CORneR

Compliance & Helpful Info…

By Beth RoseCompliance Manager

Whom Should i Contact if…

FaQ

Q: There is a beehive or swarm of bees in the common areas?a: During normal business hours, contact the management

company at 480-704-2900. after hours or weekends you can contact the management company, by calling the same number and following the prompts to report to the manager on call. The Pest Control Company will then be contacted to schedule removal.

Q. My neighbor’s dog doesn’t stop barking?a. First, you should try to make contact with the owner and

make them aware of the problem. Generally, dogs are left outside when the owner is away and the owner may not be aware of the problem. If this is not possible or the problem persists, City of Chandler animal Control offers a number to report the barking dog (480) 782-BaRK (2275). You may also contact the Compliance Manager to have the association send the owner a letter. Visit www.oca-az.com and click on the Forms/Docs/News section to locate the Barking Dog Complaint Form.

Q. If someone’s cat is roaming around the neighborhood?a: Try to contact the owner. agencies do not generally

respond to calls regarding cats as cats are considered “free roaming” animals. If believed the cat is feral, please contact the Compliance Manager at 480-704-2900, for information on organizations that can assist with feral cats as they are protected by federal agencies.

Q. A sprinkler head has broken and is spraying water all over?a: During normal business hours, contact the management

company at 480-704-2900. after hours or weekends you can contact the management company, by calling the same number and following the prompts to report to the appropriate person on call. The Landscape Maintenance Company will be contacted to repair the broken sprin-kler head.

Q. Someone is having a loud party late at night in the neighborhood?

a: You can contact the City of Chandler Police Depart-ment’s non-emergency number at 480-782-4130 to make a report. By speaking to the department, an officer will respond.

Q. I see a suspicious person or activity in the neighborhood?a: You can contact the City of Chandler Police Depart-

ment’s non-emergency number at 480-782-4130 to make a report. By speaking to the department, an officer will respond. If you want to report a crime in progress, im-mediately call 9-1-1.


FaQ

Community Interest… www.oca-az.com

The single best way to prevent the f lu is to get a f lu vaccination every year. There are two types of vaccines:

• The“f lushot”-aninactivatedvaccine(containingkilled virus) that is given with a needle. The f lu shot is approved for use in people 6 months of age and older, including healthy people and people with chronic medical conditions.

• Thenasal-sprayf luvaccine-avaccinemadewithlive, weakened f lu viruses that do not cause the f lu (sometimes called LaIV for “Live attenuated Inf luenza Vaccine”). LaIV is approved for use in healthy people 2 years to 49 years of age who are not pregnant.

about two weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop that protect against inf luenza virus infection. Flu vaccines will not protect against f lu-like illnesses caused by non-inf luenza viruses.

When to get vaccinated

Everyone should get vaccinated as soon as the f lu vaccine becomes available each year. However, it is still beneficial for anyone who was not vaccinated in early fall to get vaccinated later in the fall or winter because most inf luenza activity typically occurs in January or later. Though it varies, f lu season can last as late as May so it is never too late to get vaccinated.

Who Should get vaccinated?

Everyone 6 months and older should be vaccinated every year. Even healthy people should get vaccinated because they could spread the f lu to someone who is at high risk for complications from the f lu or who is not able to get a f lu vaccine.

Flu vaccination is especially important for:

1. People at high risk for complications from the f lu, including:

o Children aged 6 months or older,

o Pregnant women,

o People 50 years of age and older,

o People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, and

o People who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities.

2. People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from f lu, including:

Preventing the Flu:

get vaccinated!

o Health care workers

o Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the f lu (see above)

o Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)

3. anyone who wants to decrease his or her risk of getting or spreading inf luenza.

use of the nasal Spray Flu vaccine

Vaccination with the nasal spray vaccine is an option for healthy persons aged 2-49 years who are not pregnant. Healthy persons 2-49 years who live with or care for those in a high risk group can get the nasal spray vaccine. The one exception is healthy persons who care for those with severely weakened immune systems who require a protected environment; these healthy persons should get inactivated f lu vaccine.

Who Should not Be vaccinated

Some people should not be vaccinated without f irst consulting a physician. They include:

• Peoplewhohaveasevereallergytochickeneggs.People with mild allergic reactions (hives) should still be vaccinated.

• Peoplewhohavehadaseverereactiontoaninf luenzavaccination in the past.

• PeoplewhodevelopedGuillain-Barrésyndromewithin 6 weeks of getting an inf luenza vaccine previously.

• Childrenlessthan6monthsofage(inf luenzavaccineis not approved for use in this age group).

• Peoplewhohaveamoderateorsevereillnesswitha fever should wait to get vaccinated until their symptoms lessen.

If you have questions about whether you should get a f lu vaccine, consult your healthcare provider.

Info courtesy of Arizona Department of Health Services

24 Issue 4 / 2013

Community Interest…

If you regularly make charitable donations online or are considering giving to charity online, the Charities Review Council recommends the following smart online giving tips to minimize the chance of potential problems:

• VerifytheCharity: Whether you give online or off-line, always verify the charity by researching the organization at the Council’s online list of reviewed charities to ensure it is a legitimate organization. The online Giving Guide also offers information about the organization, its mission and programs, so that you can be sure of what your money supports.

• BewareofPhonyWebSites: Look closely at the web address of the charity. Scammers may use Web addresses that appear similar but not exact to the off icial Web address of an organization to deceive users. The Council’s online list of reviewed charities also lists the URL address of organizations as part of their charity review reports with the Council.

• DonatethroughaWebsitethatissecured: To verify your session is secure, look for “https:” instead of “http:” in the URL address line, as well as the padlock icon on your browser’s status bar.

• ProtectYourConfidentialInformation: If you receive unsolicited e-mail appeals, do not click on links asking for your confidential information such as passwords, credit card numbers or bank account numbers. This fraudulent attempt to acquire sensitive information is known as “phishing.”

• BewareofAttachments: Do not open attachments from unsolicited e-mail appeals. These attachments may contain viruses that can harm your computer system. Discard these e-mails by hitting the delete key.

• LookforPrivacyPolicies: Check the web site or ask the organization for a privacy policy to learn how your information will be safe guarded and used.

If in doubt, contact the charity directly before providing your information online. By taking charge and taking steps to protect yourself, you can enjoy a safe and secure on-line giving experience. Info courtesy of smartgivers.org.

Tips for Safe Online giving

Child Fingerprinting

The EZ Child ID system produces a child ID card and child ID CD. In addition, it even records a digital video with voice, and it is saved in digital avi format.

The EZ Child ID Software form includes all 10 f ingerprints and is saved in the universal PDF format. The parent not only receives a printed EZ Child ID card and the EZ Child ID form, but they also get a CD with all the information on it. To help protect from identity theft, the EZ Child ID Software Kit was written so that no information of the child is saved on the computer. once you start over, all of the information is erased off the EZ Child ID system. The parent is the only person who retains the data and the child id card. This is the NEW STaNDaRD in child identif ication programs! also, the Chandler Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit administers this program and there is no cost to the parents or child. It’s FREE!

PROGRAMINFORMATION

For more information or to schedule please contact:

officer Robin Valenzuela: [email protected] or (480) 782-4961

officer Dan Chavarria: [email protected] or (480) 782-4967

vial of life Program

The Vial of Life program is designed to notify emergency personnel of vital medical information. In the case where communication is not possible or is diff icult, the information from the Vial of Life may be critical in assisting the Chandler Fire Department Paramedics with your medical treatment.

Programs to Help Ensure a Safe New Year

continued on page 25


www.oca-az.com

WhatgoesintheVial?

There are 4 simple steps to getting your Vial of Life kit ready. You can also save and store your Vial of Life information at VialofLife.com for easy access for changing medical and doctor information in the future.

1.FillouttheVialofLifeform

• FilloutthebacksideoftheVialofLifeform.Answerallorany pertinent questions. The forms can be found at www.vialof life.com/print-free-vial-kits/.

• Makeblankcopiesofthisformtokeepyourinformationcurrent or maintain and store your updated information online with us.

2.Placethedecalonfrontofaplasticbaggie

• Placetheformyouf illedoutinthe plastic baggie.

• Youmayalsoconsiderplacingthefollowing items in the baggie.

• CopyofEKG

• Livingwillorequivalent

• DNR(DoNotResuscitate)

• RecentPictureofyourself

3.Placethebaggieonyourrefrigeratordoor

• Securelytapeplasticbaggieonthefrontofyourrefrigerator door.

• Placethedecalonyourrefrigerator–thiscouldbeonthefront or side of the refrigerator, whichever is easiest fro EMS personnel to see and access.

4.Placetheseconddecalonyourfrontdoor

• Placethedecalonthefrontdoorsoitcaneasilybeseenbyanyone responding to an emergency.

You can store and print out the form.

Storing the form allows you to come back later, change the information and reprint an updated copy. Storing your information is not necessary… it’s an added convenience for you. any information stored on this site will be maintained for you as stated in our Privacy Policy. Simply… all information is confidential and we will never disclose or share your information. To store information, you must become a member.

For more information on this life saving program visit: www.vialof life.com.

lockboxes for Seniors

The Lockboxes for Seniors program is offered as a courtesy to the residents of Chandler. The lockboxes are provided through the South East Valley Regional association of Realtors. The program provides lockboxes for emergency personnel to gain access to your home after being summoned there for emergency purposes. In the event of a time sensitive situation (person not breathing, f ire, etc.), emergency personnel may not have the time to use the lockbox system and will gain entry with the fastest means possible. Every effort will be given to utilize the lockbox when time permits.

PROGRAM REGISTRATION

Step 1: Click on the application at the following website address: http://chandlerpd.com/community/lockboxes-for-seniors/

Step 2: Print out the application

Step 3: Fill out the application

Step 4: Contact officer Robin Valenzuela at (480) 782-4962 or email [email protected].

Step 5: officer Valenzuela will go over your application to determine if you are eligible for the program

Step 6: If you qualify, officer Valenzuela will set up a time for your lockbox installation

26 Issue 4 / 2013

Community Interest…

1. Buy a cross-cut type shredder. Shred all your important papers and especially preapproved credit applications received in your name and other f inancial information that provides access to your private information. Don’t forget to shred your credit card receipts.

2. Be careful of “Dumpster Diving.” Make sure that you do not throw anything away that someone could use to become you.

3. Be careful at aTM’s and using Phone Cards. “Shoulder Surfers” can get your “Pin Number” and get access to your accounts.

4. Get all of your checks delivered to your bank-not to your home address.

5. Do not put checks in the mail from your home mailbox. Drop them off at a U.S. Mailbox or the U.S. Post office. Mail theft is common. It is easy to change the name of the recipient on the check with an acid wash.

6. When you order new credit cards in the mail, or your previous ones have expired, watch the calendar to make sure that you get the card within the appropriate time. If it is not received by a certain date, call the credit card grantor immediately and f ind out if the card was sent. Find out if a change of address was f iled if you don’t receive the card or a billing statement.

7. Cancel all credit cards that you do not use or have not used in 6 months.

8. Put passwords on all your accounts and do not use your mother’s maiden name. Make up a f ictitious word.

9. Get a post off ice box or a locking mailbox, if you possibly can.

10. ask all f inancial institutions, doctors’ off ices, etc., what they do with your private information and make sure that they shred it and protect your information. Tell them why.

11. Empty your wallet of all extra credit cards and social security numbers, etc. Do not carry any identif iers you do not need. Don’t carry your birth certif icate, social security card, or passport, unless necessary.

Steps in Preventing identity Theft

12. Memorize social security numbers and passwords.

13. When a person calls you at home or at work, and you do not know this person, never give out any of your personal information. If they tell you they are a credit grantor of yours call them back at the number that you know is the true number, and ask for that party to discuss personal information. Provide only information that you believe is absolutely necessary.

14. Do not put your social security number on your checks or your credit receipts.

15. Do not put your telephone number on your checks.

16. Get credit cards and business cards with your picture on them.

17. Do not put your credit card account number on the Internet (unless it is encrypted on a secured site.) Don’t put account numbers on the outside of envelopes, or on your checks.

18. In conjunction with a credit card sale do not put your address, telephone number, or driver’s license number on the statement.

19. Monitor all your bank statements from every credit card every month. Check to see if there is anything that you do not recognize and call the credit grantor to verify that it is truly yours.

20. order credit reports once a year from one of the credit reporting agencies: Equifax 800-525-6285; Experian 800-301-7195; Trans Union 800-680-7289. Report any accounts that you did not apply for.

21. Immediately correct all mistakes on your credit reports in writing. Send those letters Return Receipt Requested, and identify the problems item by item with a copy of the credit report back to the credit reporting agency. You should hear from them within 30 days.

22. Take your name off all promotional lists.


www.oca-az.com

heart Disease Facts

America’s Heart Disease Burden• About600,000peopledieofheartdiseaseintheUnited

States every year–that’s 1 in every 4 deaths.• Heartdiseaseistheleadingcauseofdeathforbothmenand

women. More than half of the deaths due to heart disease in 2009 were in men.

• Coronaryheartdiseaseisthemostcommontypeofheartdisease, killing more than 385,000 people annually.

• Everyyearabout715,000Americanshaveaheartattack.Ofthese, 525,000 are a first heart attack and 190,000 happen in people who have already had a heart attack.

• CoronaryheartdiseasealonecoststheUnitedStates$108.9billion each year. This total includes the cost of health care services, medications, and lost productivity.

Deaths Vary by Ethnicity Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people of most ethnicities in the United States, including african americans, Hispanics, and whites. For american Indians or alaska Natives and asians or Pacific Islanders, heart disease is second only to cancer.

Deaths Vary by Geography During 2007–2009, death rates due to heart disease were highest in the South and lowest in the West.

Early Action is Key Knowing the warning signs and symptoms of a heart attack is key to preventing death, but many people don’t know the signs.• Ina2005survey,mostrespondents—92%—recognized

chest pain as a symptom of a heart attack. only 27% were aware of all major symptoms and knew to call 9-1-1 when someone was having a heart attack.

Best Valentine’s Day Gift Ever!

• About47%ofsuddencardiacdeathsoccuroutsideahospital. This suggests that many people with heart disease

don’t act on early warning signs.

Heart attacks have several major warning signs and symptoms:• Chestpainordiscomfort.• Upperbodypainordiscomfortinthearms,back,neck,

jaw, or upper stomach.• Shortnessofbreath.• Nausea,lightheadedness,orcoldsweats.

Americans at Risk High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. about half of americans (49%) have at least one of these three risk factors.Several other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also put people at a higher risk for heart disease, including:• Diabetes • Overweightandobesity • Poordiet • Physicalinactivity • Excessivealcoholuse

Protect Your HeartLowering you blood pressure and cholesterol will reduce yourrisk of dying of heart disease. Here are some tips to protectyour heart:• Followyourdoctor’sinstructionsandstayonyour

medications.• Eatahealthydietthatislowinsalt;lowintotalfat,

saturated fat, and cholesterol; and rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Takeabrisk10-minutewalk,3timesaday,5daysaweek.• Don’tsmoke.Ifyousmoke,quitassoonaspossible.Visit

www.cdc.gov/tobacco and www.smokefree.gov for tips on quitting.

The best gift you can give your loved ones and yourself for Valentine’s Day is a healthy heart. The following information is provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

28 Issue 4 / 2013

City of Chandlerwww.chandleraz.gov

Police Department250 East Chicago Street Phone numbers Emergency | 911 Non-emergency | 480-782-4130 General information | 480-782-4011

Fire Department221 East Boston Street Phone numbers Emergency | 911 Information | 480-782-2120 www.chandlerfire.org

hospital Chandler Regional Hospital 475 South Dobson RoadSoutheast corner of Frye Road intersection Phone numbers Main | 480-963-4561 TTY | 480-963-4561 Fax | 480-899-5548

Public library Downtown Branch MoN-THU, 9:30am-9pm FRI-SaT, 9:30am-6pm SUN, 1pm-5pm 22 South Delaware Street 480-782-2803

hamilton Branch MoN-WED, 7:30am-8pm THU-FRI, 7:30am-5pm SaT, 1pm-5pm 3700 South arizona avenue 480-782-2828

Sunset BranchMoN-THU, 10am-8pm FRI-SaT, 10am-6pm 4930 West Ray Road 480-782-2840

Department of Motor vehicles 50 South Beck avenue MoN-FRI, 8am-5pm www.azdot.gov/mvd

emissions Testing MoN-FRI, 8am-7pm SaT, 8am-5pm Before you register your vehicle in ari-zona, it must be emissions tested by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Some locations will only accept cash -- to keep from making an unnecessary trip, be prepared. • 20NorthBeckAvenue• Call602-470-4646or 800-284-7748 for other locations.

Recycling 480-782-3510

Helpful Numbers…

Give me a call, Tony at (480)414-2013 or email me at [email protected]

ULM is a full service company with English speaking employees.

We do all phases of landscapinG:• Weekly, bi weekly or monthly landscape maintenance.• Low voltage landscape lighting install and repairs.• All types of irrigation repairs and installs.• We are bonded and insured for your safety.• 37 years in business in the valley.

www.ulmtoday.com

always free

estimates!

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I am also a salesperson in print.

I talk to the 10,000 perspective customers in Ocotillo every issue.

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For more service providers visit www.theserviceplace.com.

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GarageFloor,Patio&PoolDeckCoatings!Your choice of Epoxy, Polyurethane, Flagstone, Tile or Stain Coatings. Commercial-grade, locally manufactured products designed for our desert conditions. Local, family-owned & operated in the Phoenix East Valley since 2001!

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30 Issue 4 / 2013

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