July/August Issue
Summertime!
It’s hot and humid. It’s Summer…the season when life seems a bit less hectic. People seem to be in less of a hurry. And it’s fun to take some time to act like we don’t have a care in the world…at least for a little while.
All too soon school will start up again (August 16, for those of you who are already counting down the days) and many of us will begin to hurry because we have to adhere more strictly to a schedule. Big yellow busses will stop traffic to swallow up students laden with backpacks, lunch bags, musical instruments and sports gear. Some parents will opt to drive their kids, increasing the volume of cars on the road early in the mornings and again at mid-afternoon. With the number of students will walk or ride their bikes to school, drivers will need to be on the lookout.
So knowing what’s coming, take the time to enjoy what you can now. Load up the gear and go to the beach, catch a Riverdogs game, pick your own vegetables or fruit at a local farm, enjoy the educational interpretive center and nature path at Caw-Caw, quench your thirst at the Charleston Tea Plantation or spend a Saturday morning at the Farmer’s Market in Marion Square. Doing something different once in a while can do wonders for the body, the mind, and the spirit. ♦
Alert – Public Safety Announcement
Accidents. Amber Alerts. Bullying. Home invasions. Internet Predators. Muggings. Please pay attention to your surroundings, know where your children are and what they are doing, and be ready and able to report, advocate, and request assistance immediately. ♦
Alligator Encounters
Alligators and people live peacefully in many neighborhoods in the South. The alligators provide an opportunity to enjoy, respect, and learn about wildlife and nature in general. We can observe their general habits and how they interact with the other wildlife that live in VG. There is plentiful food in the ponds for the alligators – turtles, geese, ducks, and fish. And having learned that a hooked fish is an easy meal, alligators will sometimes pay attention to the activities of local fishermen. Sometimes they’ll be spotted with their mouths gaping open. This is not necessarily a sign of aggression…rather, it is how they regulate their body temperature. We need to keep in mind that it is when we’re tempted to manipulate our environment that things go awry.
According to an information page on the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, feeding alligators can cause them to view humans as a source of food and/or lose their fear of humans. Unfortunately, when this happens, they become “nuisance” alligators.
Recently, some residents have reported encounters with alligators. In one case, a resident indicates having had to quickly bring their dogs inside because an alligator made advances on the dogs not once, but twice. It also appeared to have no fear of the resident. This might suggest that the alligator could have been fed by someone and lost its fear of people.
According to state law (Section 50-750), unless specifically licensed by the state to do so, it is unlawful to feed or otherwise entice alligators with food. Those found guilty must be charged a fine of up to $200 or serve up to 30 days in jail.
The DNR has a program to deal with nuisance alligators which involves removing and destroying (not relocating) them. So, please refrain from feeding the alligators or otherwise attempting to engage them. For routine matters or safety concerns regarding wildlife, please contact Bob Cherry. However, in the event of an emergency, call 911; the emergency responders will determine if DNR services are needed. (Holly Noga Jones contributed to this article.) ♦
Are You Paid Up?
Delinquent memberships present a problem for both the VGHOA and VGRA. The funds from the membership fees are needed to cover general business costs, services from pond maintenance and landscaping providers, as well as maintenance of the pool, filter/pump equipment, and surroundings. If you have not yet made your membership payment for this year, please contact Bob Cherry to arrange payment. Legal consequences will be forthcoming for those who do not meet their membership requirements. ♦
Board Meetings
Village Green has two boards. The VGHOA board oversees the general interests of Village Green and the homeowners. Its members include President Dave Malara, Vice President Mark Mandel, Secretary Bob Borregard, Treasurer Matt Dawson and members Ed Delaney, Donna Quinn, and Evan Thornton.
The VGRA board oversees the pool and recreational interests of Village Green and the homeowners. The VGRA board members include Mark Mandel, Jim Chilakos, Carol Davis, Gwen McCullough and Kent Weikel.
Homeowners and residents are welcome and encouraged to attend the board meetings. Board meetings are held generally on the third Monday (VGHOA) and Wednesday (VGRA) of the month. Meeting times and locations may vary slightly. For example, earlier this year, the VGRA board held meetings at the pool, but moved them to St. Andrews United Methodist Church when the weather heated up. Anyone interested in attending either VGHOA or VGRA meetings may verify dates and times with Bob Cherry by phone (843-352-0300) or by e-mail.
Currently, the next scheduled VGHOA Board is Monday, July 18 at 7:00PM at the St. Andrews United Methodist Church. The next scheduled VGRA Board is Wednesday, July 20 at 7:00PM at the same location. ♦
Is Your Home a Green Home?
It has been noted that a number of VG homes have “gone green”. However, it’s not the green associated with “Earth Day” or the “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” mantra. Real estate agents will tell you that curb appeal is important when selling a home. Residents will tell you they prefer living in a neighborhood that is well kept and offers pleasant views in all directions. Please be sure to inspect your home’s exterior for algae growth or other unsightly deposits or discolorations, and arrange for pressure washing or other services as necessary to keep up appearances and property values. ♦
Meet the Locals
Last time, this column detailed the antics of one rather persistent raccoon bent on getting a free meal from the backyard birdfeeder. He’s still around, but with the nightly routine of taking in the birdfeeders, his visits have tapered off.
These days, it’s the squirrel providing the entertainment. Well, it’s actually a joint effort by the squirrel, our dogs and sometimes our next door neighbor’s dog. The squirrel is drawn to the bird feeders. Of course! Just like the birds (and the raccoon), he likes the sunflower seeds, fruits and nuts frequently included in birdseed mixes.
He’ll sit in the hanging platform feeder, singling out whatever delicacy is his choice until it’s depleted. Then, he’ll span the air between the platform feeder and the lantern feeder to see if there’s more to be had over there. Apparently it’s too much effort to leave the platform feeder and climb onto the hook from which the lantern feeder hangs. But hanging upside down from the hook to get to the seeds would probably result in a fairly painful bloodrush, so I suppose I can’t blame him.
As benevolent as I feel toward most creatures (note, I said “most”), the purpose in putting out birdseed is to attract the colorful, musically inclined feathered creatures so I can enjoy their beauty and talented voices…not to provide an all-you-can-eat buffet for grey-furred (or other) gluttons.
Often at about the same time I think the buffet should be closing, I’ll realize that one or both of our dogs need to do some business outside. So I’ll head for the back door and cheerfully ask, “Time to get the squirrelly?” In an instant, I’m joined by my canine companions who sense that some fun is about to be had. If I’m really quiet when opening the door, the squirrel continues eating in oblivion.
In the split second after opening the door, my Pom and my Lab are transformed (at least in their minds) into sleek greyhounds like those at the dog track. As if the opening of the door is accompanied by the starting shot, they take off at great speed! In the next split second, the squirrel becomes the (fake) rabbit propelled around the track on a rail! Except in this case, the rail is the narrow edge of the board at the top of the privacy fence between yards.
Sometimes our neighbor’s red Dachshund joins in the fun on her side of the fence. The dogs run, barking and nipping just below where the squirrel quickly treads. Their excitement increases if the squirrel missteps as it approaches the fence posts until at last it reaches the end of the fence nearest the woods. With either great determination or supreme fear, the squirrel flings itself toward the closest branch of a tree on the other side of the fence and scampers off into the vegetation. The dogs return to the house, prizeless but proud, their duty to rid the yard of the uninvited guest fulfilled. ♦
Pond Update
The heat of summer is taking its toll on VG. The water levels in the ponds decreased as a result of lack of rain and the evaporation effects of the heat. To avoid damage to the pumps, it was necessary to turn off the fountains in the ponds at the VG entrance. The recent rains have helped return the ponds to more normal water levels. Aquatic Management Services, our pond maintenance provider, is monitoring the ponds and working to ensure the health of the pond ecosystems. ♦
Pool News
Good news! If you’re at the pool and you’re thirsty, the vending machine is in place for the season. Drink selections include bottled water and Coca Cola brand drinks in cans. Prices range from 85¢ to $1.50. It has been noted that good sales volume will help VGRA when negotiating with the vending machine provider in the future.
Additionally, recent topics discussed at VGRA board meetings included repairs to the pool decking and tiles, pool lighting and maintenance of proper chemical balancelevels during the hot weather. Arrangements have been made for the necessary work and followup with the service providers. Please be advised that the pool may be closed when certain services are performed. VGRA will make an effort to post pool closings on the VGHOA website so that residents can plan activities accordingly. ♦
Seasonal Safety Issues
Gel Fuel Products Recall Notice: One recent item of safety concern made national news and concerns the use of gel fuels, gel firepots and tiki torches. The Consumer Product Safety Commission is aware of 37 reported incidents and 23 burn injuries involving these items to date. Please be very careful to follow all manufacturer instructions when using these fuels.
The problem is that the gel fuel flame burns blue or clear and/or with very little smoke. This makes it difficult to see the flame and to tell when it has been extinguished. Pouring more gel into a pot that is still burning can lead to dangerous flares. For additional details and information, please see the CBS News story and the recall notice on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.
Pet Safety: For many of us, our pets are like children. They’re members of the family. So we want to do the best we can to take care of them. Like us, our pets can suffer the effects of heat and humidity. So it’s really important to make sure to provide supply of clean drinking water and a place where our pets can escape the direct rays and heat of the sun.
Pet owners should have their pets evaluated annually by a veterinarian to ensure long term health, immunize them against potential illnesses (like rabies), and to obtain protection from mosquitoes, fleas and other parasites. Mosquito and flea bites cause itching and irritation which can lead to scratching and chewing. In addition, these nasty bugs can carry viruses that can make our four-footed friends quite ill.
Owners of pets who are either Harry Houdini reincarnated or just have a wandering spirit and slip out the open front door or side gate may want to consider microchipping their pet. Why microchip? Well, not all pets remember to put on their collars and ID tags before heading outside. But a pet implanted with a microchip has ID with them at all times.
When the escaped or lost pet is found, a veterinarian can scan for the microchip with a special machine that can read the chip and supply the name and contact information of the owner. So, a tiny microchip can make for a happy reunion when the collar and tags have been left behind. ♦
Social VG
Last year, a small group of VG neighbors decided it might be nice to get together socially. As time went on, they invited more and more of the neighbors they met to the group. Members started to share ideas about the types of events in which people would be interested in participating and therefore make it possible for more neighbors to connect.
In May, they held a Neighborly Gathering one evening at the community pool. Attendees brought their own beverages and an appetizer to share. The result was a feast of delicious foods which somehow, the crowd of 80 or more managed to consume while meeting and greeting old friends and meeting new ones.
In June, they held a Potluck Dinner at the community field adjacent to the pool. Attendees again brought their own beverages and a food item to share. And again, there was a smorgasbord. Are you seeing a theme here? Yes, food and friends. But wait…there’s more!
Knowing that residents have different interests, Social VG asked attendees at the events to make suggestions for future gatherings or other interests that they would like to share with other neighbors. Social VG is also trying to help people with common interests connect. Slowly, smaller groups are forming for fitness/exercise/walking, play dates for kids, or craft sessions for the artistically inclined. There is interest in gardening, recipe swaps, water aerobics, and more.
Upcoming events* include:
- Saturday, July 16th 7:00PM
Neighborly Gathering (Family Event) - Saturday, July 30th 6:30PM
Family Night at the Pool – Kid friendly desserts (Family Event) - Saturday, August 13th 6:30PM
Back to School Party (Family Event) - Saturday, September 10th Time TBD
Family Picnic at the Park (Family Event) - Saturday, September 24th 6:30PM
Luau Party at the Pool (Adult Event) - Saturday, October 29th Time TBD
Halloween Party/Parade (Family Event) - Saturday, October 29th Time TBD
Chili Cook-Off (Family Event) - Date/Time TBD
Trivia Night @ Dog & Duck (Adult Event)
*Additional events as suggested by Social VG members will be added as support and logistics allow. Please check the Social VG facebook page for updates.
While those who initially started the group oversee the Social VG facebook page, there are no elected officers or agenda other than fostering a sense of community that is so often lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Social VG now has over 90 members on facebook and is open to all residents of VG. If you’re socially inclined, join Social VG at one of the events and meet your neighbors. They’re a friendly bunch! ♦
Suspicious Activity
There have been reports of activity taking place at the pool/parking area after hours. Please be aware that the pool and recreational area close at 10PM. This includes the parking lot. Activity is recorded by the security cameras posted in and around the pool/playground/parking area.
Some residents have contacted board members to report suspicious after-hours activity. It is helpful for the board to be aware of these incidents, but the Charleston Police are authorized and equipped to deal with these situations. They need to be notified at the time the activity is taking place. Please continue to be vigilant. To report any suspicious activity between 10PM and 6AM at the pool/playground/parking area, or anywhere else in VG at any time, contact the local police first. ♦
Trivia Time!
This year marks the 235th anniversary of our nation. So to test your memory and honor our nation’s history, this issue’s trivia question is:
How many cities/towns in the US have “Independence” in their name? Click for the answer. ♦
Upcoming Events
July 18: VGHOA Board meeting at 7:00PM at St. Andrews United Methodist Church.
July 20: VGRA Board meeting at 7:00PM at St. Andrews United Methodist Church.
August 16: First Day of School for Charleston County Schools. Please watch out for children as they walk and ride bikes/scooters to school and as they board/disembark from school busses.
September 5: Labor Day. Traditional end of the summer season.
October 10: Columbus Day. The anniversary of the discovery of the New World.
October 31: Halloween. Watch for the ghosts and ghouls as they trick or treat!
November 11: Veterans Day. Thank a veteran and his or her family for their service and sacrifice to our nation.
November 24: Thanksgiving Day. Celebrate all for which you have to be thankful. ♦
Notice: Please e-mail the newsletter editor if you have a story idea or would like to request that we cover a particular topic in an upcoming issue. All ideas are welcome and will be given due consideration. ♦
Trivia Time! Answer
According to the US Census website, there are 11 cities/towns in the US that have “Independence” in their name. The most populous is Independence, Missouri, with a population of 116,830. Click to return/read the next article in this issue. ♦
Village Green Home Owners Association Information
PRESIDENT: Dave Malara VICE PRESIDENT: Mark Mandel
TREASURER: Matt Dawson, CPA SECRETARY: Bob Borregard
MEMBERS: Ed Delaney, Donna Quinn and Evan Thornton
WEBMASTER: Joe Bolognue NEWSLETTER EDITOR: Robin Daisley
Village Green Recreation Association Information
Members: Mark Mandel, Jim Chilakos, Carol Davis,
Gwen McCullough and Kent Weikel
VGHOA and VGRA MANAGED BY: RAVENEL ASSOCIATES, INC.
Bob Cherry, Regime and Association Manager
(843) 352-0300 ♦ (843) 720-9698 (after hours)
bcherry@ravenelassociates.com
www.vghoa.info
