February 2017

The View From

Meridian Ranch Meridian Ranch Community Directory MSMD Board of Directors: President: Butch Gabrielski Secretary/ Treasurer: Mike Fenton Asst Secretary/ Treasurer: Douglas Woods Bill Gessner Wayne Reorda Newsletter Advertising Porchlink Media kerri@porchlink.com www.porchlinkmedia.com 720-295-2649 Newsletter Sponsor Thank you to Antler Creek Golf Course, CreekView Grill, DRC No. 1 and DRC No. 2 for their sponsorship of

The View From Meridian Ranch!

Websites

www.meridianranchmetro.org www.meridianranch.com

www.stonebridgecoloradosprings.com

A publication of The Meridian Service Metropolitan District ISSUE

43

FEBRUARY 2017

Page 1

Recreation Center News Happy Valentine’s Day! The Rec Center has some great upcoming events for February!

Teen Night: : Friday, February 3rd from 5:30 - 10:00 pm Parent’s Night Out – Fridays, February 3rd and 17th from 5:30 – 10:00 pm Valentine’s Day Mother/Son, Father/ Daughter Dance 6:00 – 8:00 pm Open Gym Volleyball – Thursdays from 6:00 – 8:00 pm Gymnastics on Wednesdays • Beginner Gymnastics: 4:00 - 4:45 pm • Intermediate Gymnastics: 5:00 – 6:00 pm Ballet is back! Tuesdays and Thursdays • Beginner Ballet: Tuesday/Thursday 4:30 - 5:30pm • Intermediate Ballet: Tuesday or Thursday 5:30 - 6:30pm Swim Lessons start February 1st Women on Weights is back: • Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:00 am • Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 pm

Active Older Adults Events: • Lunch Out: Friday, February 3rd at Nana’s Kitchen at 1:00 pm • Potluck: February 16th at 12:15 pm with Pinochle to follow New Guest Policy: Each household is allowed TWO free guest passes each day. Additional guests are $5 per person, per day. Residents must accompany their guest during their visit to the facility and pool.

Not sure how to start those New Year Resolutions? Try out a Fit Path: Enjoy one free hour with a certified Personal Trainer. Identify specific areas to improve on through fitness assessments of your choice. Also, go over goal setting, and create a realistic fitness plan tailored to your specific needs. This is a great way to start off on the right foot!

Call the Recreation Center for more information 719.495.7119. Also Like us on Facebook to get daily updates.

Women on Weights 2.0: • Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm

Public Meeting Notice

New Elementary School Construction When: Tuesday, February 1, 2017 From: 6:00 - 7:30 pm.

Where: Falcon Middle School 9755 Towner Ave., Peyton, CO 80831 District 49 and El Paso County leaders present an opportunity for residents to learn about the overall scope of the project for the new elementary school to be built near Falcon Middle School. It's an opportunity to learn, ask questions and share concerns. More information available at www.D49.org/3B The View From Meridian Ranch

$325,239

16

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Our desire is to be your go to for anything real estate. We live here and know our community.

If you have questions, we’re happy to answer them.

If you’re looking to sell your home, we’d love to interview for the job!

“Great Agent to work with!

Chris was very nice and did a great job helping us find our new home. He was very responsive to our inquiries and accommodating to our schedule.

He looked out for us every step of the way and we couldn't be happier to have worked with him and his team. Thanks Chris!”

-­ Alex A.

Stay Updated ...

Follow us on Facebook! facebook.com/ParagonGroupRE Info@ParagonGroupRE.com | 719.822.1981

Not intended to solicit currently-listed properties. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Source of data: Pikes Peak MLS.

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The View From Meridian Ranch

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

February 2017

Wednesday 1

Thank you, Rock Solid Chiropractic for hosting Ladies Night one Wednesday a month! Ladies join us on February 8th, when the theme is “Pamper Me.” There will be vendors that cater to pampering women. They will also be doing FREE spinal screenings and going over other chiropractic ideas.

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Women on Weights 9 am Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

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Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

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Women on Weights 9 am Gymnastics Beginner: 4 - 4:45 pm Intermediate: 5 – 6 pm

EVERY Wednesday is Ladies Night @ the CreekView Grill from 4 pm to Close EVERY Thursday, Kids eat for Free w/ a paying adult @ the CreekView Grill! Dine–in only from 4 – 8 pm

Swim Lessons Start

Thursday Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Open Gym Volleyball 6 – 8 pm

Gymnastics Beginner: 4 - 4:45 pm Intermediate: 5 – 6 pm Ladies Night Out @ CreekView Grill “Pamper Me”

3 AOA “Lunch Out” at Nana’s Kitchen 1 pm

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Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Saturday 4

Parents Night Out 5:30 – 10 pm Teen Night 5:30 – 10 pm

Women on Weights 6 pm

Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm 8 Women on Weights 9 am

Friday

10 11 Valentine’s Dinner Valentine’s Dinner @ The CreekView @ The CreekView Grill 5 – 8 pm Grill 5 – 8 pm Call for details and Call for details and reservations reservations

Open Gym Volleyball 6 – 8 pm

Mother/Son, Father/Daughter Valentine’s Day Dance 6 – 8 pm

Women on Weights 6 pm

Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm 12

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Women on Weights 9 am Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

14 VALENTINES DAY Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

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Women on Weights 9 am

16 AOA “Pot Luck” 17 12:15 pm Pinochle Parent’s Night Out to follow Pot Luck 5:30 – 10 pm

Gymnastics Beginner: 4 - 4:45 pm Intermediate: 5 – 6 pm

Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

Open Gym Volleyball 6 – 8 pm

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Women on Weights 6 pm 19

20 President's Day

School District 49 closed in observation of President's Day

Women on Weights 9 am

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Women on Weights 9 am Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

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Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

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Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

22 Women on Weights 9 am

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Ballet Beginner: 4:30 - 5:30 pm Intermediate: 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Gymnastics Beginner: 4 - 4:45 pm Intermediate: 5 – 6 pm

Open Gym Volleyball 6 – 8 pm

Women on Weights 2.0 6 pm

Women on Weights 6 pm

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Rec Center Snow Delay and Closure Policy

The Meridian Ranch Recreation Center follows the D-49 Snow Closure and Delay Policy.

If D-49 is on a 2-hour delay or is closed, MRRC will open at 8:00 am. No morning classes or Childwatch.

Please be advised that if the weather is severe or below zero, MRRC is subject to closure.

However, if it is open, all paid programs will continue as scheduled. Updates can be found on our Facebook page as soon as any delay or closure information becomes available. Or check your local weather channel for D-49 updates. Please call the Rec Center at 719-4957119 for more information.

The View From Meridian Ranch

February 2017 Design Review Council Corner Did you know? When the temperatures reach 40 degrees or warmer it is nice to give the shrubs, trees and grass a drink of water. It is advised by professional landscapers to water approximately one minute per shrub and 2-3 minutes per tree. It is crucial to winter water your evergreens such as pine and spruce trees. Not watering can lead to plant damage.

Did you know? The minimum requirements are found in the Design Guidelines? Design Guidelines can be found on the front page of the Meridian Ranch DRC website; choose DRC no1 or DRC no2, depending on your address. Section 5.2 in DRC no 1 and section 6.2 in DRC no 2 has the minimum requirements listed per lot; Filing 4 B follows Filing 4 minimum requirements. Even if you worked with your builder to have your front yard installed, you are responsible to maintain the minimum requirements. If you are still under warranty, please follow up with your installation company to make sure the front yard meets the minimum requirements as per the Design Guidelines.

Did you know? There are parking regulations in Meridian Ranch.

Although the roads are owned and maintained by El Paso County, the community has parking regulations. Please review section 3.33 in the Covenants for both DRC no 1 and DRC no 2, as well as the amendments to the Covenants which are also listed on the front page of both websites. www.meridianranchdrc.org; Splash page; review addresses list; select the DRC; front page of the website; “Go To” for valuable information.

Did you know? There are a lot of walkers in the Meridian Ranch Community; please put your trash totes in front of the curb or on the driveway so the walkers can utilize the sidewalks to get to the trails.

Please store trash totes out of site in the garage or behind a screened location after trash pick up day.

Questions? Regarding the DRC please contact your Meridian Ranch Management Team: Jamie Adams, CMCA, AMS, PCAM – Managing Agent Jamie@warrenmgmt.com Chelsea Walker – Management Team Assistant Chelsea@warrenmgmt.com

Falcon Fire Protection District Receives Reduced Insurance Rating Effective February 1, 2017, the Falcon Fire Protection District’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating will be reduced for many residents of the fire district. As a result, some homeowners could see a reduction in their insurance premiums, depending on the insurance company. An August 2016 ISO audit resulted in a Class 3 rating for any property that is located within five road miles of a Falcon fire station or one of its mutual aid partners, such as Black Forest Fire/Rescue or Colorado Springs Fire Department. Previously, those properties were rated as either a Class 5 or a Class 7, depending on their proximity to fire hydrants.

Properties that are located more than five road miles from a Falcon or mutual aid fire station remain at a Class 10.

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Homeowners in Meridian Ranch are encouraged to contact their insurance agents to find out the ISO rating that is on file with the insurance company and to alert agents to the new, reduced rating. Some insurance companies do not use ISO data to calculate premiums, but many do. A few minutes on the phone could translate to a few more dollars in your pocket every year.

“Go,” then click the Schedule Number on the left side of the screen. Scroll down to Tax Entity and Levy Information, where you will find the fire district.

Important note about addressing

Stay connected:

Much of the Falcon Fire Protection District encompasses properties addressed as Peyton, Colorado, even though the area is known as Falcon. As a result, we have learned that some insurance companies mistakenly rate properties as if they are located in the Peyton Fire Protection District, which has a higher ISO rating. If you are not sure which fire protection district covers your property, check the El Paso County Assessor website at: http://land. elpasoco.com/. Enter the address and click

Agents or property owners who have questions about the new ISO rating can call the fire district at 719-495-4050 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Website: www.falconfirepd.org Facebook: @FalconFireDepartment Twitter: @FalconFireDept

The View From Meridian Ranch

Meridian Ranch Teen Services L=Lawn & Chores ‬ S= Snow Removal ‬ D= Dog Walking ‬ B=Babysitting ‬ B*=Red Cross Certified ‬ H=House-sitting ‬ P=Pet-sitting

B, H, P, L, S P B*, H, P, L, S B, H, P, L, S B*,P B*, H, L B, H, P, L, S, D B, P, D B*, P, D B, H, P B, H, P, D Tutor for math, science & lang. arts L, S,Tutor for math and science L, S,Tutor for math and science H, P, L, S

P, D, S

B*, H

B, H, P, D

B*, H, P, S, D B, H, P B, P, D H, L B, H P, D P, D S B* H, P B, H, P, D H, P, L, S, D P

B*, H, P, Tutor

S

B*, H, P

B*

B, Math Tutor

L, D, B*, H

P

H, D, Tutor Lang. Arts, Spanish, Math

P, D, S

L, S, D, P

Our teenagers can be a great resource and affordable service providers to our community, so call them up! To be listed, or to update your listing, have your PARENTS send an email to kerri@porchlink.com. Please specify Meridian Ranch and include your child’s birthday, phone number and list of services offered.

Students Strike Chord with Music Program

By Kayla Maldonado Marketing and Communications Specialist Students enrolled in the life skills course at Sand Creek High School and Falcon High School visit the Colorado Springs Conservatory twice monthly to participate in the “A Positive Note” music program. According to the program's website, the goal is for “all participants to access a sense of joy, self-discovery, belonging and accomplishment.”

The program was founded by musician Jordan “Jordy” Smith, after he suffered a brain injury caused by a car accident. “It’s been quite a journey to get to this point,” said Smith, preparing the conservatory for the students. He said over 400 participants have benefited from the program.

After eating lunch Nov. 30, Sand Creek High School students boarded an elevator and headed to the lower level of the conservatory, where they joined Falcon High School students and took a seat in a circle. Lewis Keller, Colorado Springs Conservatory Sand Creek High School tenth-grader Dayshawn Powell, lead mentor, provided students with various types of drums and shakers and began 15, and twelfth-grader Carlos Atencio, 18, play drums to play a repetitive beat which the students followed. He then explained the term Nov. 30th at the Colorado Springs Conservatory. "improvisation," and encouraged students to try the technique as he started the beat again. Lewis said the communal aspect of the program provides a fun release for the students, and he enjoys watching them “come out of their shell.” “It’s a joyful thing,” he said.

Participants gathered into smaller groups and traveled to rooms containing various instruments. In one area, each student was given a guitar and practiced their strumming in a lesson taught by Smith. In another, they practiced notes on a piano with the guidance of a teacher. Abby Rowley, life skills teacher, explained that students gain confidence by playing music, singing and dancing as part of the program. “[The program] allows them to take risks in a small group,” said Rowley.

Media is Porchlink ublish p proud to sletter! ew n r u yo

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To place a display or business services ad: Please contact: Kerri Watts kerri@porchlink.com  720-295-2649 The View From Meridian Ranch

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As a premier real estate agent in Colorado Springs, I’m here to provide you with all the resources and information you need to buy or sell real estate. I work with with buyers and sellers in Colorado Springs, Peyton, Monument, Castle Rock, Woodland Park and the surrounding areas. I’ve had extensive training in the latest real estate marketing strategies. I’m confident that I can offer you knowledge and tools most other agents can’t.

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Meridian Ranch Resident since 2005

The View From Meridian Ranch

DEVELOPER'S STORY:

We are pleased to announce that Papa John’s and Meridian Ranch Liquor opened their doors in December! Nana’s Kitchen and Splash Bath Pet Grooming continue to do a steady business. Jak’s Brewing Company is anticipating an early March opening at The Shops. Brand new brewing tanks were delivered to their new location.

The Lodge at Stonebridge is in the final framing stages and is anticipated to be open in May.

Deck Works

by Porter Construction

Specializing in Outdoor Living: •Custom Crafted Decks and Patios •Cultured Stone BBQ and Fireplaces •Composite, Hardwood, Steel, Stucco •Multi-level and Built In Features •Deck Covers, Pergolas, Gazebos •Spa and Pool Enclosures, Sun Rooms •Accent and Lifestyle Lighting •Basement Finishes, Room Remodels

ph: 719.661.3403

fax: 719.662.0356

web: www.deck-works.com e-mail: deckworks1@comcast.net

Member Southern Colorado BBB Over 18 Years of Custom Crafting Licensed and Insured

Drive Thru

Cleaning Green for Falcon!

Mon-Fri: 7:30am - 6pm Saturday: 8:30am - 2pm Or Leave in Drop Box 24/7

Full Service Drycleaning PLUS

(719) 886-7200 7356 McLaughlin Rd. Between Meineke & Walgreens

SPLIT PEA & HAM SOUP Ingredients 1 pound dried split peas

½ pound ham chopped

1 ham hock

1 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

¾ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

1 cup finely chopped yellow onions ½ cup finely chopped celery ½ cup finely chopped carrots 2 teaspoons minced garlic

www.FalconDrycleaning.com

• Military Uniforms • Family Laundry: Wash, Dry and Fold • Minor Alterations & Repairs • Wedding Dresses • Formals • Starched Shirts/Pants • Comforters • Sleeping Bags

¼ teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes 8 cups water 1 bay leaf 2 teaspoons fresh thyme

Directions Place the peas in a large pot, cover with water by 2 inches and soak for 8 hours. Drain the peas set aside. Score the ham hock. Place in a pot, cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 1 hour. Drain and set aside. In a large pot melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook stirring for 2 minutes.

Add celery and carrots and cook stirring until just soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook stirring for 30 seconds. Add the ham hock and cook stirring until beginning to brown. Add the drained peas, salt, pepper, and pepper fleck, and cook stirring for 2 minutes. Add 8 cups of water, the bay leaf and thyme and cook stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender, about 1 hour. Add more water as needed, if the soup becomes too thick or dry. Remove the bay leaf and discard.

Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve.

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When: March 3rd 7:00pm

March 4th 1:00pm & 7:00pm Where: Falcon High School on Lambert Rd Info:

858-999-4956

The View From Meridian Ranch

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The View From Meridian Ranch