HRCA August 2024 Newsletter

H I G H L AN D S R AN C H CO M M U N IT Y AS S O C IATI O N

NEWSLETTER AUGUST 2024

New HRCA Payment System We heard your concerns regarding difficulty paying your assessments and listened, beginning on Thursday, August 1, Highlands Ranch residents will have a new way to pay quarterly assessments.

In a continuous effort to enhance the way Highlands Ranch residents pay assessments, Zego by Paylease, will be replaced with Versapay. Versapay will significantly improve your experience with its easy-to-use platform, true autopay functionality (payment amounts automatically change when assessments change) and the ability to see real-time balances.

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HRCAonline.org

Contents

Contacts

02

CONTACT INFO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 303.471.8958

06

ASSESSMENTS

03 07

08 09 10 13

14 15

MESSAGE FROM THE GM AQUATICS

BACKCOUNTRY WILDERNESS AREA EDUCATION EVENTS

EASTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER 303.471.8858 9568 University Blvd.

FITNESS SPORTS

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION

Become a Community Partner Have you ever considered becoming a HRCA Community Partner? If so, now is the perfect time!

HRCA continuously strives to enhance property values and quality of life through recreation, community events and leadership. In line with our commitment to fostering stronger connections within our community, we would be delighted to partner with you in making your business successful.

We have recently unveiled a new structure for our community partner opportunities. These changes reflect a significant milestone for HRCA, and the modifications will greatly benefit us and our esteemed partners by enhancing the value of our collaboration and offering more options for exposure for our partners with the community.

As we embark on this new chapter, we remain committed to delivering outstanding exposure and commitment to our partners and residents.

If you are interested in learning more about how to become a Community Partner, the new tier structure and how we can help market your business, please contact Director of Marketing and Communications, Rebecca Ruiz, at rebecca.ruiz@ hrcaonline.org. We look forward to the opportunity to partner with you!

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President: Monica Wasden Vice President: Dan DeBacco Vice President: Todd Landgrave Treasurer: Leo Stegman Secretary: Jim Allen

COMMUNITY PARTNER

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 303.471.8958

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

NORTHRIDGE RECREATION CENTER 303.471.8950 8800 Broadway

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

SOUTHRIDGE RECREATION CENTER 303.471.7020 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

WESTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER 720.348.8202 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

HRCA NEWSLETTER is published monthly by the Highlands Ranch Community Association, Inc. Copyright ©2024 Highlands Ranch Community Association, Inc. All rights reserved. Permission is required to redistribute, reproduce, modify or republish information from Highlands Ranch Community Association, Inc., in print or electronically.

A Message from the GM As summer comes to an end and school bells begin to chime, it’s time for the kids of Highlands Ranch to dig out their backpacks and prepare to return to school. With summer winding down almost as abruptly as it began, families are gearing up for a shift in schedules and routines. Now is the perfect moment to cherish final summer memories while preparing for new beginnings.

HRCA is also gearing up for an exciting season of programs, events, and classes. Be sure to pick up a copy of our fall Activity Guide and secure your spot early by registering now. If you haven’t visited yet, make sure to check out HRCA’s Farmers’ Market which runs every Sunday at Town Center through October. There is still plenty of time left to enjoy fresh veggies, delicious Palisade peaches, and Rocky Ford melons!

August is jam-packed with opportunities to try different things, including our free Summer Sunset Concerts and our last Mountain Bike Series event. As a reminder, Northridge (Monday, August 12 through Saturday, August 17) and Eastridge (Monday, Aug. 26 - Saturday, Aug 31) recreation centers will be closed for maintenance during the dates mentioned.

We kindly ask community members to utilize alternative facilities during these weeks and appreciate your understanding and cooperation in ensuring our facilities remain in top condition for everyone to enjoy.

Lastly, I am excited to announce that August marks the beginning of HRCA’s robust budgeting process for the upcoming year. This essential undertaking ensures that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our community effectively and responsibly. Over the next three months, our staff, the Finance Committee, Delegates, and Board of Directors will meticulously review and analyze the proposed budget for 2025. We invite all interested homeowners to stay informed and engaged throughout the process. Our volunteer-based meetings are open to our members and provide an opportunity to learn more about our financial planning.

The final budget will be presented to the Board for approval in October. For more information, please visit our website.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to ensure a prosperous future for our community. Let’s embrace this transitional time of year with excitement and anticipation for what’s to come.

Mike Bailey HRCA General Manager

HRCA

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Attend one of Douglas County’s Older Adult Initiative Roadshows this summer Are you an older adult – or do you know and care about an aging loved one – in Douglas County? Douglas County wants to stay engaged with you!

In 2023, you told Douglas County what you needed to age well. Four priorities emerged: housing, in-home services, access to information, and transportation.

Now, Douglas County is hitting the road again with an update. They want to know what you think about proposed action steps within those priority areas.

In-person roadshows will be held in communities across Douglas County from June to August. To find a roadshow near you, scan the QR code below.

Your feedback will help Douglas County refine and prioritize the action items, with the intention of including highpriority items in 2025 budget planning.

“We appreciate everyone who engaged with us on this topic in 2023,” said Commissioner George Teal.

“We’ve taken your feedback and turned it into ideas for action steps. We want to hear from you again. Come tell us what you think.”

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OLDER ADULT INITIATIVE

Wildfire Safety As we’re in the peak summer months, when temperatures are high and precipitation is low, South Metro Fire Rescue prepares the community by addressing seasonal risks in its Summer Safety Newsletter. The communication provides crucial advice on campfire safety, highlighting the importance of checking local regulations and fire bans before lighting up to help prevent wildfires. Safety measures include proper fire setup, supervision of children and pets and immediate treatment for burns.

The information stresses the dangers of consumer fireworks and advocates attending professional displays to decrease the chance of injury or fire. For those using fireworks, safety tips include outdoor use, maintaining a safe distance and keeping firefighting equipment nearby.

South Metro Fire Rescue is also developing a Wildfire Resource Guide and offering neighborhood assessments to enhance community preparedness. They encourage proactive fire safety practices and emphasize collaboration to safeguard homes and neighborhoods. To read the full summer safety newsletter, visit the South Metro Fire Rescue’s Facebook page.

New HRCA Payment System (Continued from page. 1) Other beneficial features include: Invoice Presentment • Single view of all invoices and supporting documents • Access to all of your invoices and payment history • Check your account statement, print your invoices and make payments safely and securely 24/7 Payments • Secure platform to make payments using multiple payment methods • Sign up for AutoPay • Pay one or multiple invoices, pay line items, short pay, overpay or apply credits Customer Portal • Self-serve portal allows you to view your invoices and payment history from the portal 24 hours a day, 7 days a week • Mobile Customer Portal is automatically presented to you when you are using a mobile phone and tap on a link from an email notification or access a customer portal mobile-specific URL

Our assessment team is in the process of updating member email addresses to provide a seamless transition for our community. Please email our assessment team at assessments@ hrcaonline.org to ensure your email address is up to date. The subject of your email should read, Versapay email update.

Please note that if you utilize the autopay option in Zego, your autopay will be canceled on Monday, July 29, 2024. On Thursday, August 1, all Highlands Ranch residents with a registered email address will receive an email invitation to make one-time payments or set up a new recurring automatic payment with Versapay.

We are here to help! Please email assessments@ hrcaonline.org with any questions in preparation for the autopay transition.

Access to the prior payment system, Zego by Paylease, will be terminated and all payments scheduled after Monday, July 29, will be deleted.

Action will be needed, users of the prior payment system will need to enroll with Versapay. More information is included on our website. To find out more about this upgrade, please scan the QR code, visit HRCAonline.org and check your email inbox for more information and updates now and in coming months.

VERSAPAY

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Assessments & Covenants Understanding and Maintaining Property Boundaries and Fences Property boundaries and fences are crucial elements of our community that ensure everyone’s space and privacy are respected.

Knowing your property lines helps prevent disputes with neighbors and ensures that any additions or changes, like fences, are within your legal property. You can determine your property lines through surveys, maps, or physical markers. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to check with a professional surveyor to get a precise understanding of your boundaries.

The HRCA has specific rules and regulations regarding fences to maintain a consistent and attractive appearance throughout the neighborhood. These can be found in Section 2.30 of the Residential Improvement Guidelines (RIGs). This section of the RIGs covers the types of fences allowed, including materials, height and styles. Before installing or modifying a fence, homeowners must seek approval from the HRCA Architectural Review Committee (ARC).

After you have a fence, regular maintenance is crucial. Routine maintenance tasks include cleaning, making necessary repairs, and painting or staining the fence as needed.

Seasonal changes can also impact your fence, so be sure to check for damage after harsh weather conditions, like big storms or extreme temperatures.

It’s essential for homeowners to determine who owns a fence, especially when it sits on the boundary line between properties.

Ownership typically dictates maintenance responsibilities. If you and your neighbor share a fence, it’s important to discuss and agree on how to handle upkeep and repairs. Remember, the HRCA’s role is to enforce the community guidelines, but it’s up to the property owners to manage and maintain their fences.

6

ASSESSMENTS

If a dispute arises regarding property boundaries or fence issues, there are steps to resolve it amicably. The first step is to discuss the matter directly with your neighbor in a calm and respectful manner. Understanding the legal aspects and knowing your rights can also be beneficial, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if needed. Having proper documentation, such as property surveys and written agreements, can also help in resolving disputes efficiently. The HRCA does not have records of “fence ownership.”

Well-maintained fences and clear property boundaries contribute to the overall value and beauty of our community. By adhering to HRCA guidelines and working together, we can ensure a harmonious and attractive neighborhood for everyone.

ASSESSMENTS 303.471.8815 9568 University Blvd. assessments@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Assessments

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT SERVICES (CIS) 303.471.8821 9568 University Blvd. covenant@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Covenant

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

That’s a wrap on swim team!

Youth Swim Classes Our September - December Learn To Swim classes are available for registration! Don’t miss out - classes are filling quickly! Sign up today and secure your spot.

Our HRCA Seahawks had an amazing summer competing in swim meets, improving their strokes and of course, having fun with friends in the pool! We couldn’t have done it without the help of our awesome coaches and parent volunteers. We’re already looking forward to next summer, but in the meantime, be sure to sign up for our fall coached programs.

Try Masters - Join us in August!

Join the Highlands Ranch USMS champion swimmers and coaches for a great workout and new friendships. Membership in USMS is not required to join a workout group. Workouts for all level swimmers available. Purchase an Adult Coached Aquatics one-day pass or 10-20-30 punch pass to join. Try Masters in August, two free classes for new participants. For details and to register scan the QR code or visit our website.

YOUTH COACHED AQUATICS

MASTERS PROGRAMS

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Three Programs to Try in the Backcountry Wilderness Area This Month S’mores Hikes, Thursdays, 6 - 8 p.m.: Leave Base Camp hungry for exploration, return hungry for a s’more! Join our naturalist for a guided (allages) hike into the Backcountry Wilderness Area before ending the evening with a favorite summer treat. We’ll provide the adventure, ingredients and challenge to roast the perfect s’more. In the event of a Red Flag Warning, we’ll have ice cream sandwiches in place of s’mores.

The Science Says Everyone Should Be in Nature Go into nature, it’s good for you.

According to a 2022 study, 92 percent of people had consistent improvements across all health issues, and 98 percent had improved mental health, all from engaging with natural outdoor environments. We’re often fast to encourage kids to get back to nature instead of screens. But, what about adults? The Backcountry Wilderness Area is the perfect prescription. Head to the Backcountry Field Notes blog for the whole story: HRCAbackcountryblog.org.

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Horseback Trail Rides, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m., and Saturday mornings 9 – 10 a.m.

Spot local wildlife from the saddle! On these hourlong horseback trail rides, you might see wildlife like elk, mule deer, bobcats, golden eagles, or wild turkeys. The Front Range foothills provide the perfect backdrop for a close-to-home horseback riding experience. Don’t miss out – our trail rides end on Labor Day! Nature Walks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 6:30 - 7:45 a.m.: Walk the dirt roads in the reserved part of the Backcountry Wilderness Area and you’ll forget you’re only 15 minutes from home.

Grab a coffee and bring binoculars if you want to spot local wildlife during a relaxed, guided excursion. Fresh air and a scenic view make this jaunt to improve health and nature know-how a perfect way to spend your morning. This hike is an adult-focused program at an adult pace. Young children are welcome to join if they are carried for the entirety of the hike. The program is free, but registration is required. Donations are encouraged to the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund.

BACKCOUNTRY WIL DERNESS AREA

Empower Your Finances Safe & Secure Discover essential health and safety skills with our comprehensive classes in babysitting, child escape, parenting skills and self-defense.

Perfect for parents, caregivers and individuals looking to enhance their safety knowledge. Our courses are designed to equip you with practical skills and confidence. Prepare your children for emergencies with our child escape training and empower yourself with effective self-defense strategies. Join us in prioritizing safety and preparedness—because being informed is the first step toward peace of mind. Enroll today and take control of your safety journey with expert guidance and practical handson learning.

Unlock your financial future with HRCA’s exclusive lineup of educational seminars. Whether you’re navigating estate planning or maximizing your investment strategies, our seminars cater to every stage of life.

Join us for insightful sessions like the Living Trust and Will Seminars, where you’ll gain essential knowledge to protect your legacy.

Explore the complexities of Social Security with our Social Security Education Center Presents: Social Security 101, ensuring you make informed decisions for your retirement benefits. For the savvy investor, delve into High-Probability Trading: Using Options to Trade the VIX, and discover advanced techniques to capitalize on market volatility. Lastly, secure your retirement with confidence through our comprehensive Retirement Planning Today seminar. Don’t miss out on these invaluable opportunities to empower your financial planning journey.

Reserve your seat today and take charge of your financial future.

ARTS

EDUCATION

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Curtain Call at the Mansion: Nothing But Jazz The Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association presents an evening of “Nothing but Jazz” with the After Midnight sextet at the Highlands Ranch Mansion. Their swing and jazz repertoire will bring toe-tapping joy to all ages.

Date: Thursday, August 1 Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Highlands Ranch Mansion - 9950 E. Gateway Dr. Details: $25

Tequila and Tacos Join HRCA and Davidsons Beer, Wine and Spirits for an afternoon of tequila and taco tasting! You can enjoy tacos, tequilas, margaritas and a selection of other tequilabased cocktails. Each ticket includes unlimited half-ounce samples of tequila and one plate of food. This event is outoors and is bigger and better than before! Must be 21+ to attend this event; no infants or children; IDs will be checked.

Date: Saturday, August 10 Time: 3 - 6 p.m.

Location: Eastridge (back patio) 9568 University Blvd.

Details: $55

Coffee with a Cop Come meet your local Douglas County Sheriff’s Deputies. These informal conversations give residents and business owners a chance to connect with the police in a relaxed atmosphere.

Date: Wednesday, August 14 Time: 8 - 10 a.m.

Location: Southridge 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd. Details: Open to the community 10

EVENTS

Summer Sunset Concert: Funkiphino (high-energy funk) The Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association and the Highlands Ranch Metro District are joining together to celebrate the end of another great summer with one final concert of the season! Food trucks will be on site with food available for purchase.

Admission is free and open to the public, no dogs or glass containers are allowed in Civic Green Park.

Date: Friday, August 23 Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Civic Green Park, 9370 Ridgeline Blvd.

Details: Free

Blood Drive

The Highlands Ranch Community Association is partnering with Vitalant to bring the gift of life to our community. Healthy individuals are encouraged to participate and to keep our blood supply strong! Your donation will help patients suffering from traumatic injuries, undergoing surgery, receiving cancer treatment or giving birth.

Date: Thursday, August 29 Time: 9 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.

Location: Northridge - 8800 Broadway Details: Free

UPCOMING EVENTS: Wednesday, August 7: Mountain Bike Race Series Wildcat Circuit Saturday, September 7: Doggie Splash

Saturday, September 14: Oktoberfest Celebrations Saturday, September 28: Fall Craft Show Saturday, October 5: Fall Fest

EVENTS 303.471.8888 HRCAonline.org/Events HRCAonline.org/Tickets

Check the website for the most current event information and to purchase tickets.

EVENTS

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Highlands Ranch Pioneer Days Join us at the Highlands Ranch Mansion and experience the Old West coming to life for Highlands Ranch Pioneer Days!

This event offers a variety of hands-on educational opportunities that are perfect to interest children in local history! Explore fur trapping, gold panning, traditional Native American dance performances, blacksmith demonstrations, a petting zoo and tours of the Highlands Ranch Mansion.

Date: Friday, September 6 & Saturday, September 7 Time: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Location: Highlands Ranch Mansion 9950 Gateway Dr. Details: $7 adults / $5+ 18 and under (tickets sold at gate)

Oktoberfest 5K Put on your lederhosen and sneakers as we kick-start HRCA’s annual Oktoberfest event in Town Center with the Oktoberfest 5K! This course is a mixture of both sidewalk and gravel trails and is well-suited for all ability levels. After the race, plan to stick around for pancakes from Flippin Flapjacks’, free beer from Living the Dream Brewery, and a fun postrace party! Come back later in the afternoon to get your polka on, enjoy German food and other HRCA Oktoberfest activities.

Date: Saturday, September 14 Time: 9 a.m.

Location: Town Center - 9315 Dorchester St. EVENTS Details: $45+ adults / $30 children 12 and under

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EVENTS

Fitness Expo 2024 HRCA’s third annual Fitness Expo is Saturday, September 21. Experience a variety of class demonstrations, including yoga, cycling, The Zone circuit class and more. Meet nationally certified personal trainers to discuss your fitness goals and get personalized advice. Take advantage of a free body composition scan to track your progress and learn more about your overall health. For more information email Hannah Yeager at hannah.yeager@hrcaonline.org.

Date: Saturday, September 21 Time: 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Location: Westridge - 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Details: $20 members / $25 guest

Take the guessing out of your workout routine Personal training sessions provide individualized attention and guidance to help you reach your specific goals. With a certified personal trainer at HRCA Fitness, you can receive personalized workout plans, expert advice on proper form and technique and ongoing support and motivation to stay on track. Personal training sessions can help you achieve optimal results in a safe and effective manner regardless of your fitness level. For more information, email Jesse Pleiman at jesse.pleiman@hrcaonline.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Saturday, August 3: Yoga in the Park

Saturday, August 24: Yoga in the Park

Saturday, August 10: Yoga in the Park

Friday, August 30: US Open Tennis Social

Saturday, August 17: Yoga in the Park

Saturday, August 31: Yoga in the Park

FITNESS EXPO

YOGA IN THE PARK

PERSONAL TRAINING

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Youth Girls Basketball League For beginner to intermediate players, this league offers a sevengame regular season, two-week tournament and a weekly onehour practice. This league places an emphasis on skill development, teamwork, sportsmanship and fun.

The registration deadline is Friday, September 6, or when full.

For more information, please contact Kodey Stauffer at kodey.stauffer@hrcaonline.org or 303-471-8838 or by scanning the QR code below.

Pickleball Fun

There are lots of reasons why Pickleball is the fastest growing paddle sport ever! A combination of badminton, table tennis and tennis. It’s played on a badminton-sized court with a low net and a whiffle-like ball. The game is fast-paced and only goes up to 11 points, adding to the excitement, thrill and fun of the sport. HRCA’s Pickleball Socials are an awesome way to get started in the sport or practice your moves while meeting fellow pickleball enthusiasts. Join us on various Fridays from 6 – 8 p.m., at Westridge. For more information, please call the Northridge Pickleball Desk at 303-471-8996.

In-House HRCA Leagues As the Adult League season winds down, why not try something new and different with your doubles partner? HRCA’s Women’s In-House Doubles program will keep your game sharp and provide an opportunity to compete outside of league season in your own backyard! Held at The Northridge Tennis Pavilion, beginning the week of Tuesday, September 17, these doubles sessions last seven weeks and are played during weekdays. You’ll team up with your partner and compete at your level against other 2.5, 3.0 or 3.5 teams. There’s even a Senior In-House Mixed Doubles League for players aged 55 and over!

Registration is open now. For more information visit our website or call the Northridge Pavilion Sports Desk at 303-471-8996.

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SPORTS

Therapeutic Recreation Sports Sampler Learn the skills to play a variety of sports, the rules of the games and good sportsmanship.

Sports include tee-ball, kickball, broomball, ultimate frisbee, volleyball and more. We will focus on one sport each time we meet.

Date: Wednesdays, August 7 - 28 Time: 5:15 - 6 p.m.

Location: Southridge Gym - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd. Details: $55/$63

Special Olympics Bowling Make friends, have fun and brush up your bowling skills at AMF Bowlero! The season will culminate with the Special Olympics bowling tournaments. Tournament participation is optional.

Date: Saturdays, September 7 - November 9 Time: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Location: AMF Bowlero Littleton 2530 E. County Line Rd. Details: $160/$184

Therapeutic Recreation Taekwondo Improve balance, concentration, self-control and confidence in this Taekwondo class for people of all abilities (ages 5 to 20). In-class belt testing allows students to challenge themselves while earning recognition from peers.

Date: Tuesdays and Thursdays , September 3 September 26 Time: 5:15 - 6 p.m.

Location: Southridge Gym - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd. Details: $105/$120

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION

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Facility Closures

Saturday, August 3: Eastridge outdoor pool will be closed from 9 - 10 a.m. for the Splash, Mash, Dash Kids Triathlon.

9568 University Blvd.

Highlands Ranch, CO 80126 HRCAonline.org

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID HIGHLANDS RANCH CO PERMIT #170

Saturday, August 10: Eastridge basketball courts close at 10 a.m. for Tequila and Tacos event.

Monday, August 12 - Saturday, August 17: Northridge is closed for annual maintenance.

Monday, August 26 - Saturday, August 31: Eastridge and Administrative offices are closed to walk-in traffic for annual maintenance.

Events

Sundays Highlands Ranch Farmers’ Market Thursday, August 1: Curtain Call at the Mansion Nothing But Jazz Saturday, August 3: Yoga in the Park Splash Mash Dash Kids Triathlon

Postmaster: Time Sensitive Material.

Please deliver by 7/31/24

Community Partners

Wednesday, August 7: Mountain Bike Race Series Saturday, August 10: Yoga in the Park Tequila and Tacos Monday, August 12: Board Working Session Wednesday, August 14: Coffee with a Cop Saturday, August 17: Yoga in the Park Tuesday, August 20: Delegate & Board Meeting Friday, August 23: Summer Sunset Concert Saturday, August 24: Yoga in the Park Thursday, August 29: Blood Drive Friday, August 30: U.S. Open Tennis Social Saturday, August 31: Yoga in the Park

Check the website for the most up-to-date closure information. For event details, visit HRCAonline.org.