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MINI ROUNDUP - WHAT IS IT & WHY?
Have you felt like something’s been missing in your mailbox this past year? Perhaps a familiar monthly magazine—possibly the Ranchers’ RoundUp? You’re not alone.
In September of 2023, the Dobson Association Board of Directors made the difficult decision to discontinue the home delivery of the printed Ranchers’ RoundUp magazine, which had reached almost 5,000 homes in Dobson Ranch. Given the financial and staffing constraints leading into 2024, this decision (202309-101) was driven by the need to reallocate funds to higher-priority items within the budget. Other beloved events, such as the Winter Carnival and Pancake Breakfast, were also paused. While these changes allowed for more flexibility in addressing pressing needs, they left a noticeable gap in how we communicate with you, our valued residents.
Throughout 2024, our communications department worked tirelessly to bridge this gap through digital platforms such as weekly email updates, social media, and our website. However, we quickly learned that these methods alone could not fully replicate the reach and impact of the printed RoundUp. Sometimes, when something has worked well for so long, it’s easy to underestimate just how vital it is until it’s no longer there— like a favorite recipe missing that one key ingredient.
Recognizing this, the Board of Directors recently approved additional funding for communications efforts. We’re excited to introduce the quarterly “Mini RoundUp,” a condensed, four-page printed newsletter home-delivered four times a year (January, April, July, and October). While not the full publication of the past, this newsletter is a step toward bringing critical Dobson Ranch information directly to your doorstep. Additionally, we will be expanding the use of banners and signage throughout the community to ensure as many residents see important messages as possible.
As many homeowners know, the Ranchers’ RoundUp is available online in a digital format each month, as well as the printed 200 copies of the 20-page publication, which are available for pick-up at any of the three recreation centers. While it may not be the same as home delivery, these options provide continued access to the full magazine.
As we reflect on the past year, this transition reminds us of a story shared among ranchers: Imagine a rancher who once had a reliable windmill that drew water for the herd. When it stopped working, they tried alternatives— hauling water in barrels and creating makeshift troughs. While these methods worked, they couldn’t match the simplicity and efficiency of that windmill. The Mini RoundUp is our attempt to rebuild that windmill.
We hope this quarterly publication, alongside the monthly RoundUp available at the recreation centers, will provide the insights and updates you’ve come to rely on while complementing our other platforms. Still, as the saying goes, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.” We’re committed to delivering Dobson Ranch information to you in every way we can, but we need your help to take it in. Whether it’s reading the RoundUps, checking your emails, or visiting our website, your engagement makes all the difference.
Finally, we want to hear from you! If you have ideas for other ways we can better connect with you, please don’t hesitate to share. Your feedback will help us shape a stronger, more informed Dobson Ranch. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to improve and adapt.
Look for the Mini RoundUp in January!
