PAGE 1 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 02

The annual membership meeting of your ARBORS OF CREEKWOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION will be held this month.

It is at this extremely important meeting that your Board of Directors will be voted in.

Many vital issues pertaining to your neighborhood will be discussed. If you would like for your opinion to be known, please attend.

Please make every effort to be there!

Thursday, April 7th 7:00 PM

Willie Brown Elementary

Attention Homeowners

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SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

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APRIL

The Arbors of Creekwood Homeowners Association, Inc. P.O. Box 1110

Mansfield, Texas 76063

City Council Meeting - 7 pm

MISD Board Meeting 7 pm

City Council Meeting - 7 pm

Grandparent’s Day—Willie

Brown

ARBORS GARAGE

SALE

PAGE 3 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 02

I hope everyone had a restful spring break and a pleasant Easter. As you can see, the new wall is progressing nicely. Please look for updates on wall information further on in the newsletter. It is the time of year for the annual meeting and election of new officers, the meeting for which will be held on April 7, 2005 at 7:00 pm at Willie Brown Elementary School in the cafeteria. Don’t forget about the annual Garage Sale, which will be held on April 26, 2005 from 8:00 am –3:00 pm. It’s been a good four years serving as block representative chair, grounds and maintenance chair, and president. I have given this association 100% of my time, effort, and energy and it has been a great learning experience. This job has not been easy, particularly the last eight months since the wall project passed. The job of president has been difficult in trying

to please everyone in the Arbors, whether they voted for or against the wall. I was fortunate that I had the backing of a great board which was behind me every step of the way and whose friendship I will always cherish. Also, I have been blessed by the fact only a very few in the neighborhood have not seen the common good of the wall project. These few have chosen to obstruct the will of the overwhelming majority who voted for and contributed to the betterment of the entire neighborhood. Thanks to the Board of Directors and the residents of the neighborhood who allowed me the opportunity to serve this great community. Sincerely, Tammie Yaeger, President Arbors of Creekwood Homeowners’ Association

PPRESIDENTRESIDENT’’SS P PLACELACE

April 2005

Board of Directors

• President Tammie Yaeger (817) 453-4870

• Vice-President Laura Klein (817) 614-5027

• Secretary Sonya Hamilton (817) 473-7069

• Treasurer Donna Haisler (817) 473-1765

• Member at Large Krystal Meesey (817) 473-4180

Committee Chairpersons

• Block Representative Timi Meyer (817)473-4939

• Neighborhood Watch Dick Littell (817)473-8714

• Architecture Committee Wes Northcutt (817)453-9667

Editors of the Newsletter

• LezLee Williams (817)477-0590

☺ E-mail: lezleew@charter.net

Deadline for newsletter submissions

is the 25th of each month.

www.arborsofcreekwood.com Volume 9, Issue 02

EEDITORDITOR’’SS N NOTEOTE April 7th, 2005—7:00 p.m. Willie Brown Elementary

PAGE 4 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 02

Progress with Purpose Managing Growth – Financial Stewardship – Open Communication

Letter from Michael McSpadden - Candidate for Place 6 City Council

"Mansfield is the city in which my wife Deanna and I chose to raise our three children over nine years ago. Since that time our community has experienced both the welcome growth of new business and commerce, and the apparent mis-fortune of a speculative multi-million dollar deal that forced taxpayers to subsi-dize a California corporation without a vote.

If elected to City Council, I will work to preserve the personality and character of our city while encouraging the new business development that we the citizens of Mansfield determine to be in our best interests.

We are at a crossroads in our city's history and the decisions we make now as a community will shape the future of our town. I'd like to help guide those choices by putting schools, green spaces and hon-est-to-goodness neighborhoods first.

That's why I am asking for your vote on May 7th. It is your Mansfield too. Shouldn't you have a say in its future?"

More information about Michael’s resume, platform and the testimonies of people he has worked with or helped is available at www.mcspadden.org. What training and experience qualify you for this office? BBA of Finance, 15 years Senior Management Experience, Certified Treasury Professional, past Secre-tary of MYBA (youth baseball). As Vice President of Strategic Services with AT Systems, Inc. and past Mansfield Youth Baseball Association secretary Michael’s ability to listen, study and then act has proven to successfully meet the needs of those he serves – Customers and Citizens. Creating the current MYBA website and improving the registration process are examples of his abilities to develop solutions to prob-lems expressed by those he serves.

What is your position on alcohol sales at Big League Dreams development? BLD’s original plan was to sell alcohol during youth games. After (3) changes BLD agreed to not sell al-cohol during youth games. I am uncomfortable with a commitment that may be reversed in 72 hours without citizen’s approval. Simply, city government should not receive proceeds and liability risks from the sale of alcohol.

What should be done to satisfy increased transportation demands in Mansfield, especially re-garding the major new developments planned? First we need to slow down any further high den-sity housing developments. Next we must lobby the Texas Department of Transportation to help with more funds for freeway expansion and construction. Ironically we expanded (2) major bridges only to have (1) lane to cross a (2) lane bridge. We must revisit and take further corrective action at 287 Broad/Walnut Creek intersections.

What other important issues are now facing Mansfield, and how would you address them? Our city’s increasing debt and the continuing burden of high property taxes are on citizen’s minds.

Take (10) Minutes on May 7th to bring yourself, spouse and a neighbor to cast a vote that counts for you! Once you have reviewed his platform, resume and principles we believe the smart choice at the right time in our city's growth is a Vote for Michael McSpadden.

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Endorsements Vote Michael McSpadden for Place 6 City Council “ … I am voting for Michael McSpadden for the Mansfield City Council because he understands that government exists for us, the citizens. We do not exist for the government." Wanda A. Allen, Citizen

"I told Michael at a meeting last year that he should run for city council. He listens and takes an approach to difficult tasks that do not offend those that may disagree.” ... Greg Ganss, Citizen

“… I call him a financial wiz. Yet, the truth is, his responsible attitude toward what is right, ethical and best is what has made him financially sound. He has served as Trustee of the Trailwood Baptist Church for over ten years. His insight and eye for detail and willingness to share the truth in love have been invaluable." ... Joe Bacon, Pastor

"Michael is just the type of principle driven person I'm looking for to represent me at City Hall. His integrity inspires confidence, and I trust him to lead Mansfield responsibly and openly. I urge you to join me in supporting Michael McSpadden for better representation on the City Council." .... Kyleen Wright, Citizen

Managing Growth Curtail uncontrolled growth like leased multi-housing. Our council has already approved the

largest number of new apartments and town homes in our city’s history for the South Point and Town Center developments. Actively support Mansfield Economic Development Corporation to bring companies that offer high

paying jobs. We should leverage surrounding cities' talent base more as many people would like to work closer to home. Against the use of eminent domain to acquire land for private business purposes. Support a larger "Central Park" concept for concerts, group social events and family activities

that preserve more open areas of our city. Per Texas A&M every dollar invested in public parks equals $18 in income for local residents.

Financial Stewardship Expect revenue and cost propositions to be substantiated. Must pass return on investment

criteria. Hold accountable project proponents projections with penalty clauses to ensure commitment. Support smart investments that meet the growing needs of our Police and Fire Departments.

Open Communication Insist projects to be placed on public agenda when not legally required to be in council’s

executive sessions. Create an atmosphere where citizens have more open interaction with elected officials legally. Utilize the city's technology to more readily gain citizens input on public items.

When do I VOTE? Early Voting Dates and Times

April 20, 2005 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sub-Courthouse April 30, 2005 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sub-Courthouse May 3, 2005 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sub-Courthouse

Election Day: May 7, 2005 (7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.)

Where do I Vote? Donna Shepard Middle School - 1280 FM 1187

JL Boren Elementary School - 1400 Country Club Dr Sub Court House - 1100 E. Broad St.

Political Advertising Paid For By Citizens to Elect Michael McSpadden 2005. Help get your voice heard and send a contribution to Greg Kunasek, Treasurer, 405 Carlin Road, Mansfield, TX 76063.

PAGE 6 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 02

AAPRILPRIL G GARDENINGARDENING T TIPSIPS

Make a habit of spraying the underside of the tomato plant leaves with water, early every morning, to keep spider mites away.

Place bird feeders throughout your landscape. Birds are a good source of insect control.

Fertilize, according to a soil test, all lawns, trees and shrubs. Use an organic fertilizer.

Mulch all flowers, shrubs and vegetable beds.

Fertilize bulbs after flowers fade. Allow foliage to die back naturally.

Start planting your spring vegetable garden: Beans, cantaloupes, sweet corn, cucumber, mustard, squash, tomatoes, peppers, sweet potatoes.

Plant spring and summer bedding plants such as petunias, marigolds, zinnia, gomphrenas, begonias, impatiens, coleus.

Watch for slugs and snails.

Watch for troublesome insects and diseases.

Gradually move houseplants to a shaded outdoor area to avoid shock and sunburn as soon as night temperatures remain 60 degrees or higher.

Do not spray hatching ladybug larvae.

Thin peaches to one every 6 inches.

Plant artemisia for rabbits to eat so they won’t eat your garden vegetables.

Obtained from the Tarrant County Master Gardener calendar.

If you are interested in the Tarrant County Master Gardener program, give the Texas Agricultural Extension Service a call at 817-884-1944. A Master Gardener will answer your call.

Week 1—Hang net bags with raisins in garden to attract ladybugs. A ladybug will consume 5,400 aphids in its lifetime. Companion-plant warm season veggies: squash with nasturtiums, beans with carrots and melons with corn. Plant tomatoes (Carnival, Celebrity, Roma and Sweet 100s) and peppers (Hildago, Sweet Cherry, Gypsy, Summer Sweet 860, Jupiter, Mexibell). Remove lower leaves and plant at least half of the original plant below the soil. Companion plant with dill, nasturtiums, basil, oregano or thyme. For no-fuss plants, locate them along the outside of a compost pile and let the runoff supply the fertilizer. Make the year’s second application of spray to fruit and nut trees after flowers have fallen. Set out beer cups for snails, slugs and pillbugs or spread human and pet hair around base of plants. Week 2—Cut tansy to hang near back and front doors to deter flies and wasps. Cut tansy and Mexican and oregano and sprinkle on top of fire-ant mounds. For caterpillar damage, in the late afternoon, apply a light dusting of one of the following: flour, Dipel or Bacillus thuringienses (Bt) to turk’s cap, hostas, cannas or other susceptible plants. Note: Bt kills all caterpillars, including butterfly babies. Pinch tips of phlox and mums for bushier plants. Turn compost pile. Reapply Nolo Bait to the garden area for crickets and grasshoppers. Week 3—Finish planting perennials, shrubs and trees so they establish before summer heat intensifies. Divide fall-blooming bulbs and perennials. Spread animal compost to the roots of clematis and shade roots with pieces of broken pots or heavy mulch so they won’t dry out during the summer. Tiny dragon– or alligator-shaped bugs on plants? Leave them alone! They are ladybug larvae, which will feast on garden pests such as aphids. Survey the garden for unwanted seedling. Pull and compost them, or after a rain shower, gently transplant to an area that needs planting. Week 4—Release trichogramma wasps (no, they don’t sting) near susceptible plants. Their larvae eat pecan casebearers, cabbage worms, tomato hornworms, corn earworms and other orchard pests. Release weekly for 4 to 6 weeks to establish a population. Plant sun-loving flowers, such as cosmos and marigolds, zinnias and lantana. Plant gladiolus and caladium bulbs. Soak overnight in a light solution of fish emulsion or seaweed before planting. Problems with thrips on roses? Apply Rose Defense by Greenlight. Spray at first sight of new leaves and repeat twice at weekly intervals. Add a tablespoon of Palmolive or Neo-life soap to each gallon and shake bottle during spraying process. Plant begonias, lobelia, periwinkles and other warm-season annuals. Buy plants whose buds are not open. If you buy plants already in bloom, cut off spent blooms so new buds form. Obtained from the Organic Garden Calendar by Gail Morris from the Fort Worth Star Telegram.

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Get your registration in now to participate in the 9th Annual Neighborhood Garage Sale. For those of you who

have not participated before, expect an abundance of shoppers. Many neighbors have “sold out” before noon at

past sales.

A local mission will begin picking up unsold items for a “charitable” donation around 3:00 p.m. (More details in

the April newsletter.) Please place those items in a box or bag labeled with the mission’s name.

Your box/bag will not be picked up if it is not labeled. Also, it will not be

picked up if you have not indicated on the form that you want a pick

up. The mission will have a list of all addresses that want the

pick up. If you’re address is not on the list, you will not get your

things picked up! They will leave each family a “charitable dona-

tion tax form.”

Your registration fee of $4.00 goes towards the fees for the ads

in three papers, city permits and signs. See the registration form for further information. If you have any

questions, call Tammie Yaeger at 87-453-4870. The rainout date will be April 30th.

Saturday, April 23rd, 2005Saturday, April 23rd, 2005Saturday, April 23rd, 2005

Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

List of items for sale: ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Mission pick-up: Yes No (Please circle one.)

Mail to or drop this form with your $4 by Donna Haisler’s house—#20 Brook Arbor Court no later than April 16th.

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The construction of the wall is on schedule. Thanks to everyone for your careful driving in and out of the entrance. Very soon we will be able to see a completed panel, including the stone along the watertable line and across the top. The AOC signs that were located on either side of the entrance will be placed in the same locations on the new wall. The large sign in the center median will remain and will be modified to match the new wall. For a current update of the wall construction, please access our website at www.arborsofcreekwood.com where we will post updates throughout the entire construction time. If you have questions that are not covered there, you may email your questions to me as lbruskie@charter.net , and I will be glad to respond.

UUPDATEPDATE OFOF W WALLALL C CONSTRUCTIONONSTRUCTION

WANT TO PUT AN ADVERTISEMENT IN THE GRAPEVINE?

What better way to advertise your business than in our own neighborhood newsletter. Call LezLee Williams at (817) 477-0590 or e-mail me at lezleew@charter.net. Prices are:

Single 3 Month 6 Month 12 Month Listing Listing Listing Listing Business Card $20 $40 $70 $110 1/2 Page $30 $60 $100 $175 Full Page $50 $100 $170 $300

Take a look at our advertisers! If you visit one, tell them you saw it in the Grapevine!

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Properties available in the Arbors as of March 20, 2005* 1014 Brook Arbor 4 bedrooms 2891 sq ft $290,000 pool 1033 Brook Arbor 4 bedrooms 2716 sq ft $238, 000 1113 Brook Arbor 4 bedrooms 2550 sq ft CONTRACT 4 Brookside 3 bedrooms 2020 sq ft CONTRACT 2607 Brookwood 4 bedrooms 2411 sq ft $209,900 1401 Creekside 3 bedrooms 1970 sq ft SOLD - WELCOME 8 Hidden Lake 4 bedrooms 4350 sq ft $479,950 pool 3 Treeside 4 bedrooms 2700 sq ft $219,900 8 Trailside 4 bedrooms 3462 sq ft $417,000 pool 6 Waterwood 4 bedrooms 2378 sq ft $204,900 7 Waterwood 4 bedrooms 2861 sq ft $264,900 pool 2516 Woodbridge 4 bedrooms 2470 sq ft $238,500 2607 Woodbridge 3 bedrooms 2458 sq ft SOLD - WELCOME 129 N. Creekwood 4 bedrooms 4373 sq ft CONTRACT * Figures obtained from MLS and individual owner brochures

If want information on any of these properties or want to know the value of your home, please call me for a complimentary market analysis. I also have Arbors By-laws available to provide your prospective buyers as required by law.

Ray Chartrand RE/MAX Associates 817 804 2746 office 817 919 6558 cell www.raychartrand.com

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CCLASSIFIEDLASSIFIED S SECTIONECTION——CCOMINGOMING N NEXTEXT M MONTHONTH

There has been an interest expressed to begin a “Classified Page” in our Grapevine. So, starting next month you may submit items to be listed in this new area. The idea is to list nice things, like furniture, bedding, dishes, computers, cameras, and other things of significant value. Interested parties could then contact one another regarding specific items. Thanks to Denise Stewart for getting this “ball rolling” as they say….The guidelines are as follows:

♦ $5/item ♦ 35 word maximum description ♦ No graphics, pictures, etc—text only ♦ All descriptions must be submitted via email to

lezleew@charter.net ♦ I will copy and paste your description into the classified

sections—I will not rewrite, edit, revise, etc. ♦ All contact information must be included in your description. If you want

others to contact you via phone, cell, email etc. you must add this information. If the contact information isn’t included in the email I will not include the item.

Mobile Pet Grooming 817-473-6714

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To advertise: Get your parents’ permission first and call LezLee Williams at 477-0590 or e-mail to

NEIGHBORHOOD HELPERSNEIGHBORHOOD HELPERS In each newsletter we will be printing a list of Arbors youth that are offering their services to our neighborhood. Please consider these ambitious kids if you have a job to be done!

Kids, the Grapevine is a great way to get your name out to the neighborhood! If you have a service you want to offer to your neighbors, take advantage of our free ad program just for kids! We’ll be glad to list your name, age, number and type of job you are looking for in our newsletter. You will need to let us know if and when you want your listing to be taken out of future editions.

April

PAGE 12 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 02

Building in the Arbors since ‘93

We’ve built many of the custom homes you’ve seen in the Arbors and surrounding communities.

Commercial work includes: • Mansfield National Golf Course • Harbor Lakes Country Club • Apex Sports Center • Mansfield Children’s Center

We can do it all—from design to completion.

No project too large or too small.

Call to discuss your building needs.

AVAILABLE FOR OCCUPANCY

OUR LATEST COMPLETION