Sunshine Country Club Estates

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INSIDE SUNSHINE

January 2019

 

NOTE: After this newsletter was sent to everyone who receives the SEPO Community E-News e-mails - the  Storage Lot Fee information has been updated.

                                                                  

SEPO BOARD NEWS

 

SAFETY FIRST AT SUNSHINE

 Just a few safety reminders now that we have most of us Winter Texans here. The speed limit is 20 miles per hour. This means from the gate on Texas Avenue throughout the entire community. Please observe all stop signs. This does mean a full stop and applies to golf carts also. If you walk at dawn or dusk please remember it is very hard to see a person unless they have on a white shirt or are wearing a reflective vest. Another good device is a flashing LED light on the back of your clothing. If you have a flashlight that helps the driver coming toward you but from the back you may not be as visible. If you have company and children want to visit the pool be sure an adult accompanies them at all times. Please, no jumping in the pool. Remind your guests that if they plan to play golf they need to have a golf bag of their own. We are into our busy social season so be sure you have your room reserved if you are planning an activity. Check with Valerie to see if it is written in on the calendar. Would everyone that has a sprinkler system for their yard please do a quick check of your watering schedule to be sure you are not watering too long. There is a lot of water running down the gutters in the morning and that extra moisture is not good for our streets. Remember that the yearly maintenance fee must be paid by January 20, 2019 to receive a discount. The yearly fee is $1320.00 and the discount is $26.00. If you plan to pay yearly and pay by January 20 the maintenance fee will be $1294.00. If you will be paying monthly the fee will be $110.00 per month due on the first of the month. The board has instructed Valerie not to accept any cash over the amount of $15.00. Storage lot fees are also due on January 1st. Check with Valerie for your storage lot fee amount and be sure to sign the storage lot lease. Our next Board meeting will be on January 7th at 1:00 pm in the library. If you have something to come before the board please give a note to Valerie so she can notify us. The board meetings are available on Face book. Log into Face book and search for SEPO BOARD. This is a private group so only Sunshine owners may see the meeting. If you want to belong to the group, email a message on the SEPO BOARD page telling me you wish to be included. I will add you to the group. When the SEPO BOARD page comes up there will be a short delay before you get the picture. To get sound tap on the speaker icon at the bottom right of the picture. You can also make the picture larger by tapping on the arrow buttons in the right corner. On Tuesday, January 8th the annual Directors and Residents meeting will be in Retzlaff Hall at 1:30 pm. The nominees for Board of Directors and nominations from the floor for Board members will be accepted at this meeting. Changes suggested by the board for by-laws and Covenants will be read. Please plan to attend, particularly the new owners here at Sunshine.

 

Jean Lawrence, SEPO President

 

2019 S.E.P.O. Annual Assessment

 

The 2019 Annual Assessments are $1320.00. If paid by January 20, 2019 a 2% discount, $26, will be applied resulting in a total of $1294.00.

Monthly dues are $110 per lot due on the 1st of the month. If not paid by the end of the month a 18% late fee will be added. Invoices will only be mailed for late payments.

 

Some residents have been paying in arrears. This is unacceptable and will result in a late fee.

 

Storage lot fees are due in January and remain the same as 2018.

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STORAGE LOTS                                       lot fee

• 101-114  STORAGE ANNUAL 2018   $  140.00

• STORAGE ANNUAL 202-213 2018    $  160.00

• Storage lots 201 & 214                      $  140.00

• STORAGE ANNUAL 302-315-2018     $  150.00 (Corrected 01-03-19. Did state $140.00)

• Storage lot 301                                  $  100.00

• STORAGE ANNUAL 401-414 2018     $  110.00

• STORAGE ANNUAL 501-516-2018     $  160.00

• STORAGE ANNUAL 601-613 2018     $  140.00

• STORAGE ANNUAL 701-714 2018     $  140.00

• STORAGE ANNUAL 1-12 2018           $  100.00
   

Golf cart trail fees remain at $25 per year.

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COVENANT CHANGES

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The SEPO board has approved the following covenants change and a new covenant (C.A.R.E.) for resident approval in the Feb. 2019 election.

 

All covenant changes require a 2/3 majority vote of all lots in order to pass.   A non-vote is a "NO" vote.

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Covenant SECTION 4.3  ANNUAL ASSESSMENT

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Proposed covenant change:

The annual assessment may be increased each year by not more than 5% of annual maintenance fees per year.  Any such possible increases in assessments shall be non-cumulative.  In any year following a year when there has been no increase, the assessment may not be increased by more than 5%.  The annual assessment may be increased each year by not more than 5% per year.

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Current Covenant: 

Annual assessment shall be $300.00 payable $25.00 per month.  The annual assessment may be increased each year by not more than $45.00 per year.  Any such possible increases in assessments shall be non-cumulative.  In any year following a year when there has been no increase, the assessment may not be increased by more than $45.00.  The annual assessment may be increased each year by not more than $45.00 per year.

When this covenant was created, $45 was a 15% increase in the $300 maintenance fees.

Based on 2019 maintenance fees of $1320 a 5% increase would be $66 vs $45.

 

New Covenant C.A.R.E

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Community and Resident Enhancement Fee Covenant

C.A.R.E. Fee

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C.A.R.E. Fund  to supplement the Association's capital improvement account, each Person acquiring Lot shall pay to the Association immediately upon becoming the Owner of the Lot a Community and Resident Enhancement Fee (“C.A.R,E. Fee”) in an amount equal to the annual Base Assessment as of the close of escrow date. Said funds shall be nonrefundable and shall not be offset or credited against or considered an advanced payment of any assessment levied by the Association pursuant to this Declaration.

 

Any and all C.A.R.E. Fee funds collected shall be used only for funding capital improvement projects. A capital improvement project is defined as one that must be for an addition or improvement to real Common Area property and ca not be sold or separated from such real Common Area property. C.A.R.E. Fee funds shall not be used for operating expenses or reserve items. The C.A.R.E. Fee funds shall not displace existing Association contributions to the capital improvement account.

 

Funds collected through the C.A.R.E. Fee will be maintained in capital improvement account and will not commingle with the other accounts of the Association and will be used only for the express purpose as stated above.

 

No C.A.R.E. Fee shall be payable with respect to: (a) any person having been a bona fide owner of the subdivision for at least six months, receives the title to another lot in the subdivision for the purpose of occupancy (b) the transfer or conveyance of a Lot by devise or intestate succession; (c) a transfer or conveyance of a Lot to a family trust, family limited partnership or other person for bona fide estate planning purposes; or (d)  a transfer or conveyance of a Lot to a corporation , partnership, or other entity in which the grantor owns a majority interest unless the Board of Directors determines, in its sole discretion, that a materiel purpose of the transfer or conveyance was to avoid payment of the C.A.R.E. Fee in which event a C.A.R.E. Fee shall be payable with respect to such transfer or conveyance.

 

C.A.R.E Fee Amendment

Community and Resident Enhancement Fee

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: What is the CARE Fee?

A:  CARE stands for "Community and Resident Enhancement". It is a one-time fee to each new home purchaser. The CARE Fees are used only for funding capital improvements. The CARE Fee is equal to the Homeowner Annual Assessment as of the close of escrow date.

 

Q. Who will be responsible for paying the CARE fee?

A. Only bona fide new buyers. The CARE fee will NOT apply to sales that are a transfer of a home to a family trust, family limited partnership or other person for bona fide estate planning purposes. 

The CARE fee will NOT apply to sales of an existing SEPO resident for at least six months who purchases  another home / lot for occupancy.

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Q: Isn't this a lien on my home?

A: No, the Association files a lien for delinquent homeowner dues. This is totally separate from the transfer process that takes place when a home sells.  The CARE Fee will be disclosed and collected as part of the real estate transfer process. 

 

Q: What kind of income will this generate for Capital Improvements?

A: If the CARE fee was in place, for example, starting in 2018 the following income would have been received:

 
Income  2018   13 homes x $1287 = $16,731

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Q: How much is the proposed CARE Fee?

A: It equals one years' worth of assessments. Using the 2019 assessment as an example $1,320.00 per home sale.

 

Q: Who decides what capital improvement funds get spent on?

A: Per SEPO Bylaw  7.01b a vote of 51% would be required
7.01b  In the event a proposal is introduced that would add a building or change the purpose or use of common ground area even when no special assessment is required because of donated monies, said project must be approved by a majority (51%) of Homeowners. 
 

Q: Why do we need a Capital Improvement Fund account?

A: The Association maintains three different types of accounts to clearly keep separated the three different kinds of expenses we face:

 

Operating Fund

  This fund is used to pay for the services that help carry out the everyday functions of the HOA.

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Reserve Fund

  This fund is used for replacement and/or repair of assets maintained by the homeowners association. Typically these expenditures are infrequent, but cost a significant amount. Properly funded, a reserve fund allows an HOA to avoid a special assessment when an expensive asset must be replaced or repaired. Some reserve fund examples:

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Capital Improvement Fund

  A capital improvement project is defined as one that must be an addition or improvement to real Common Area property such as:

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Retzlaff Hall,    Pavilion,  Sunburst Building,   Tennis / Pickleball Courts   Dog Park,

 Fitness Center, Woodshop,  Kitchen Expansion,   Fences

These are just a few examples of potential projects that cannot be considered without capital improvement funds.

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The above 4 articles submitted by John Chajec, SEPO Treasurer

 

WOMENS CLUB

Happy healthy New Year. We have enjoyed many great fun-filled activities this year and several more are in the planning stages for the up coming months. Please check the bulletin board in the library and feel free to sign up for one or all of the committees. It’s a great way to meet new people. Thank you to December’s chairpersons and committees- Jane Olson / Maria Welch - Bake Sale/Raffle, Lenore Combs - Golf Cart Parade, Kathy Sunder / Marion Young - Christmas Dinner and to all your committees for your part in making these events so special.

Our Women’s Club monthly meetings are held the third Friday of each month October-March. We meet in Retzlaff Hall at 9:00 am, coffee and rolls are provided. Hope to see you there!

Eileen Anderson, President

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ART SHOW

 

If you are a "Young At Heart" artist, don't forget to submit your art work  to Virginia Carubia or Laurel Becker by Jan.15th---any media accepted, must be original art work. Don't be shy. We really want to see what you've created. Call either of us if you have any questions.   Still seeking donations for the silent auction.

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The opening will be Jan 26th from 6 to 9. We hope you'll all come and support our budding (and full-blooming?) artists. Some of us have never displayed our work before. Light refreshments will be served.  The show will be available for one week after the opening, from 12 to 4 daily. Except for the silent auction it's all free.

 

NEW HOMEOWNERS PARTY is Tuesday, Jan 22. Happy Hour at 5 pm, Dinner 5:30 pm, DJ with music, dancing and trivia 6:30 - 9:30 pm. The menu will be tacos and chicken fajitas. Virtual tickets are 10 dollars per person and sign up is in the library. Come and meet the new residents in the community and enjoy a fun evening of entertainment. If you have any questions please contact Vickie Jones at 262-689-7068.
 

BIRDING & NATURE CLUB

 

Everyone is invited to the Birding and Nature Club's annual potluck dinner on Jan. 7.  Doors open at 4:30 with the meal being served at 5 p.m.  There is no need to sign up ahead of time and there is no cover fee.  Plates, plastic utensils, tea and coffee will be provided.  We request that you bring a dish to share.  Ranger George from the Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge will be our guest speaker.  His topic should be Wildlife Native to the RGV.  Please, join us for an informative evening.  Later in the spring, we will take a field trip to Laguna Atascosa.  

 

The annual Christmas Bird Count will be held on Saturday, January 5 this year.  The bird count is held throughout the U.S.  It is an attempt to monitor the numbers and types birds found in the United States.  Our club has been assigned a specific area to monitor.  We will assemble in front of the Warner's house (4117 N. Minnesota) at 7 a.m. to divide into groups.  A knowledgeable birder will be assigned to each group.  He or she will need a notetaker,  and counters to assist.   There will not be lots of walking in this activity. Join us if you are interested.

 

Our regular meeting time is the first Monday evening of the month at 7 p.m. in the library and is open to all Sunshine residents. 

 

Jean Burgoine

 

SUNSHINE ESTATES GOOD NEIGHBOR GOLF TOURNAMENT

 

Just a quick reminder of the Good Neighbor Golf Tournament scheduled for Thursday Feb 7th through Saturday, February 9th, 2019. 

The cost to register is $50. This includes 3 days of play at our golf course, liquid refreshments during the event, door prizes, which include gift baskets and golf equipment prizes, golf tournament cash prizes, and a great Awards dinner on Saturday evening. 

One of the best deals in the valley!

Besides getting your register money in early, players will be required to have a fun time. 

 

This will be the 34th annual Sunshine Estates Good Neighbor Golf Tournament (SSEGNGT). 

The following is a correction that was made after the Newsletter was sent out to the community via the SEPO E-News e-mail distribution list.

Please register early. Registration will commence on Thursday, January 10th through Saturday January 12th from 9:00am until 1:00pm daily in the library.
 
Hope to see all the SEPO golfers participating in this fun event.

Tony Tramel
2019 Chairperson for Good Neighbor Golf Tournament 
Cell 337-693-6344

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WOODWORKERS

 

Happy New Year!  Need a new hobby?  Check out the Woodshop!

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The woodshop is looking forward to the last big wave of winter Texans finally making their way to the Rio Grande Valley. The lathes will be spinning, the saws will be buzzing, the sanders will be sanding, and the dust collector will be performing miracles keeping the woodshop as dust free as possible.

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January will be a very busy month for the Woodworkers. On Wednesday, January 2, at 8:00 a.m., the monthly cleaning of the woodshop will take place. There are always several folks who show up faithfully but help would be appreciated.

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On Wednesdays, January 9 and 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., classes will be given on how to turn wood into beautiful decorative pieces that anyone would love to have. The two classes include hands-on learning.  There is no need to sign up; just show up at the woodshop.

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The Woodworkers’ meetings will be held on January 11 and 25 at the woodshop at 1:00 p.m.

 

On January 22, at 1:30 p.m. there will be another monitor refresher course. It is important to re-train monitors every year on safety issues that need to be followed in the woodshop. We also need monitors to sign up for monitoring so the shop can stay open Monday through Friday from 9:00 – noon and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

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The woodworkers are being encouraged to display their creations at the January 26th Art Exhibit and to consider contributing a creation to support the Women’s Club auction.

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The Woodworkers’ spaghetti dinner is scheduled for Tuesday, January 29. Tickets will go on sale 2 weeks before the event.

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And to complete the January schedule, we will be working to clean up the email list used to notify people about Woodworkers’ meetings/notices.  If you get those notices and would like to be eliminated from the list, please email Chuck McEvoy at happy2tex@yahoo.com.

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The Woodworkers would like to thank Audrey Just for the efficient job she did serving as Treasurer for the club for the past 2 years. Officers for 2019 are Bill Gibson, Treasurer; Chuck McEvoy, Secretary; Jack Berning, Vice President; and Suzie Sawyer, President.

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Remember to bring your aluminum cans to the can shed in the storage lot. That recycling program helps fund the purchase of supplies to keep the machines working as effectively as possible. Feel free to stop by the woodshop and consider taking on woodworking as your new hobby.

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Suzie Sawyer, President

suzie.sawyer.cops@gmail.com

573-216-4792

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BIBLE STUDY/MOVIE NIGHT

I am planning for this group to start Jan 14th in Retzlaf Hall at 6:00 p.m. Look for notices on bulletin boards for content. Originally we planned to start on Jan 7th, it has to be changed due to unforeseen circumstances. If there are any questions, I can be reached at 314 719 6532.--Warren Hertel

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CASINO NIGHT

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Yup! It's that time of year again! Getting ready for our much anticipated Casino night 2019!

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It will be held Saturday, February 23/19  tickets will go on sale Feb. 4th. We usually sell out so get them early, more details will follow. 

 

For now we just want to remind you that we are looking for items for the prize table. We have had many beautiful items donated over the last 5 years, of which we are most grateful! We are looking for new items, hand crafted items or gift cards, which can be dropped off with Sherri Gardner or myself, Dale Hopfner.

 

If anyone wants to try their hand at becoming a dealer, contact Carolyn Anderson as she will be happy to train you and have you take part in our fun event! We are always looking for volunteers for our committee "it takes a village" our next meeting is Jan 7/19 at 9:00 am in the Library or contact one of us.

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Bye for now and will keep you posted!

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Dale Hopfner & Sherri Gardner

Casino Night Chairs

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SUNSHINE VIDEO COMMITTEE

 

Good afternoon! It is so exciting how Sunshine committees and residents are always busy finding ways to enhance or improve our community! With that said, the Sunshine Video Committee is in the beginning stages of working on Lassey Dahlstrom’s brain child - our very own community advertisement! You may notice at events or parties that one of our volunteer video persons may be recording. If for any reason you do not want to be in the video, please let the video person know and we will certainly respect your wishes! At our planned parties, i.e. Women’s Club events, there will be an announcement about the video(s) being taken, so you can let us know if it is indeed something you prefer not to participate in. Otherwise, please feel free to share your enthusiasm!!

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Irene Phillips, who you may have noticed is an avid photographer, has agreed to take care of many of the planned videos. We also have others on our committee who will be assisting. Your cooperation and enjoyment of the production will be greatly appreciated, and we will have such a wonderful memory video! We would also like to invite you to submit any videos or still pictures that you think are exceptionally fun or interesting! They do not have to be recent as long as they are of good quality and, of course, of Sunshine people and/or activities. For instance, we know the cameras were out in full force at the Leslie Blassing concert/dance in early December.

The Video Committee will be gathering these videos and pictures and will then get to work on splicing, editing, etc.! The committee plan is for the end production to contain snippets of different activities and fun we have here at Sunshine; perhaps 15 to 30 seconds of different events, along with some still pictures. Stayed tuned for an announcement of when and where you will be able to view this marvelous production. Please send any video/picture submissions to sunshinevideo88@aol.com.

 

LET’S HAVE A LOT OF FUN WITH THIS !!!

 

Beth Parrish (for the Sunshine Video Committee)

E-Mail: bethparrish107@charter.net 

314-960-6710

 

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SUNSHINE COUNTRY CLUB WEB SITE (www.sunshinecountryclub.com)

 

Work continues on the Sunshine Country Club Web site. Please view the site and send your updates, comments and/or questions to the following e-mail address: sunshinecountryclubweb@gmail.com. I am working my way through everything I have received to date. It’s definitely a work in progress and will take some time to get all of the information accurate and in formats that are pleasing to the eye.

 

The “Resident’s Only“ section is up and running and currently contains the Directory and Board Meeting minutes. If you still need the password, please click on the “Resident’s Only“ tab and you will see instructions on how to request it.

  

Thanks for everyone’s help with this endeavor.

 

Beth Parrish

Sunshine Country Club Web site

   (www.sunshinecountryclub.com)

E-Mail: sunshinecountryclubweb@gmail.com

314-960-6710

 

NEED: RENTERS CONTACT INFORMATION

 

Have you ever needed to contact someone you know is renting one of our resident’s homes here in Sunshine but don’t have their phone number and/or address? To help with this issue Valerie and Beth are putting together a ‘Renters’ Directory to be attached to the back of the ‘Residents’ Directory and also be available on the Web site.

 

In the POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OF SUNSHINE COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES it states the following –

 

RENTERS

Residents who own a home at Sunshine Estates and rent out their house must instruct the renters to come to the office and fill out the appropriate renter’s forms. Forms will include verification of over 55 years of age and the Renter’s Emergency information form.

 

The POLICIES AND PROCEDURES state other actions required concerning renters, but for the purpose of the Renter’s Directory the above info is what is needed at this time. If you have a renter in your residence, please stop by the office or instruct your renter to do so to ensure Valerie has the most up-to-date info for the directory. It would also be nice (if known) to list the time period the renter will be residing at Sunshine.

 

Thanks in advance for your response to this request.

 

Beth Parrish & Valerie Basaldua

 

MAHJONG

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Come join in the fun, learn to play mahjong with us

Every Tuesday at 1PM in the Card Room

and/or

Every Saturday at 6:30PM in the Library.

It’s easy to learn and also very addicting!!!

Please come!

Heidi Dill 307-272-2440  

 

KILLER BEE QUILTING

 

The Killer Bees quilting group meets each Thursday in Retzlaff Hall at 9:00 for a brief look at what's coming up on our weekly schedule, and then Show and Tell. Some days a few of us stay and sew if there's a project scheduled. Some of the things coming up in January are: a demo of "Quilt as You Go/ Cotton Theory"; a denim purse class; and a wool applique class. And then on February 15-16 at the convention center on South Padre Island, many of us will be busy helping with The Rio Grande Quilt Guild's Annual Quilt Show "This Land is Your Land" Chaired by our SSCCE resident, Debi Warner and Co-Chaired by resident Marsha Santow! Any questions about The Killer Bees contact Jan Baethke.

 

SUNSHINE NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH – CERT Team (Est. 2008)

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SCCE - Harlingen’s premier NW & CERT Team.

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Lights On -- Lock Up and Look Out for each other!

 

Dear Friends,

 

Our next meeting will be on Monday the 21st of January 2019 at 3pm in Retzlaff Hall. Coffee’s always on. You’re cordially invited. Bring a friend. We will change the code in February.

 

W I I F M – What’s In It For Me ?

 

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has” (Margaret Mead)

 

You are the first link to safety and security. – Lock Up - Lights On – Look out for each other.

 

The most important thing you can do as an average citizen is to call Police to report a crime or any suspicious activity. You are the eyes and ears of Sunshine. The next best thing is to always be thinking of how to be smarter than the average Bad Guy.

 

Think of the Christmas season as a fishing expedition. Don’t let the Bad Guys trick you. Stay alert. Don’t give them the bait. Make sure your gift packaging is not advertising your new stuff in broad daylight. Packaging sitting at your curbside is a great enticement. How can they resist?

 

Watch what you post on Social Media – what an Encyclopedia Britannica for “some of my favorite things” – also a great ad for the Bad Guys to know you are away (example: away skiing in the Rockies for a week).

 

Theft by Credit card – this occurs when an unauthorized user is able to obtain your personal bank number/account info by an unknown means (most times a skimmer) and use it to make fraudulent charges to your accounts without your knowledge or permission. Thanksgiving thru Christmas is prime targeting. This is usually done by the Bad Guy with a skimmer.

 

A recommendation is to use your credit card unless you shop with old fashioned ca$h. Credit can be refunded and most credit companies offer protection. When you use your debit card (even if you’re using it for “credit”) money is directly taken out of your bank account. This causes checks to bounce and other withdrawals to not clear. Also it may take the bank days before putting money back into your account. Report unauthorized charges immediately.

 

When receiving electronic gifts, record their serial number with Operation ID as they aid LE in tracking stolen items. Better yet, engrave your ID on it. Bad Guys hate ID on stuff – makes it hard to pass on.

 

Hope you don’t have any external wire for lighting etc. running thru your window- that tiny wedge is all they need to pry the window open and get in.

 

Put lights on a timer. Bad Guys hate lighting. Solar lights are inexpensive too.

 

Don’t advertise your absence. Leave your light on a timer that goes on and off.

Keys hidden under flower pots etc. – not a good idea - better to leave a key with your neighbor.

 

Sign up for Patrols with Linda Jones.

 

Locking up the Buildings (and unlocking)

 

If you are scheduled to Patrol and cannot, - no problem – please try to lock up the buildings.

 

According to Women’s Club there is a “honey-do” list for the Chair of a committee having to do with your responsibility involving a program. (put a/c on 79, check toilets, check the stove, lock the doors and turn out the lights etc. – see them for the complete list).

 

There are two new 20MPH speed signs posted on Texas Avenue. Hopefully it will discourage autobahn racing. Common sense also dictates that slower traffic has the right of way such as walkers. Some golf carts can travel fast and they are quiet. Don’t wipe someone out because they can’t hear you.

 

Walkers have responsibility too. Don’t be a ninja. Wear light colored clothing preferably with reflective material on them and/or carry a light. PS: There are Penal Codes to back this up.

 

Submitted by Lenore Combs

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BAKE SALE & RAFFLE
 

Wow! Our residents are awesome, we had a most successful bake sale and raffle this year making $1,419.45 for the Women's Club treasury. You all did a wonderful job baking, donating prizes and money and gifts, working and purchasing.

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We owe a special thanks to a wonderful committee: Diane Tewell, Judy Berning, Linda Braden, Sue Ann Crapsey, Jan Anderson and our raffle chair Marian Young. Also thanks again Mom for being our door greeter.

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Glenda and Jerry Wetherbee came back again this year and made lefse. More popular than last year, they sold out by 9:30am. What a treat people really enjoy! We also had our cinnamon rolls and coffee for residents to enjoy and visit with neighbors. Thanks roll bakers.

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We had a lot of crafters this year with a variety of beautiful products to purchase. This all came together to make a very successful event.

 

Wish we could thank each of you individually, you have made this such a success. We do great things working together, thank you all.

 

Marla Welch and Jane Olson

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Christmas Golf Cart Parade and Cookie Baking Contest 15th of December 2018  

 

The “true meaning of Christmas” is a phrase that began to appear in the mid 19th century when a shift toward a more secular culture began. But some feel that the true meaning of Christmas is actually in bringing the greatest happiness to others – take Charlie Brown vs. the Grinch. So – end result, many participants and on lookers enjoyed this evening – that’s the Sunshine way!

 

Thanks to all who turned out for this event and made it special – from participants to judges to helpers and to spectators. There was lots of work behind the scenes to make this successful. The Harlingen Police Department lead out followed by our Neighborhood Watch McGruffmobile and assorted Golf Carts. Our Christmas Chorus sang assorted carols along with the Christmas Tree Lighting. The Harlingen Fire Truck brought Santa who arrived at Retzlaff Hall for photo ops. Cocoa and cookies were served plus we inherited the delicious left overs for the Bake Sale (Jane Olson et al). What a day!

 

The wonderful Elves deserve a huge round of applause – Kat Sunders, Marian Young, Sally Hardy, Helen Perry, Sherry Gardner, Mary Hendrickson, Pam Lacy Janice Drost

 

The awards ceremony began with the winners of the decorated Golf Carts:

1st Place Irene Philips, 2nd Place Aida Leach and 3rd Place Dee Novak.

 

The award winning cookie prizes were presented to:

Sherri Gardner for 1st Place, 2nd Place Wanda Levencourt and 3rd Place Mary Hendrickson.

We wish you and your family a blessed Christmas and happy healthy New Year.

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Submitted by Lenore Combs

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FROM THE EDITOR

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Residents, once again a reminder that articles for the monthly Sunshine Newsletter are due by the 26th of the month. When I have received & read your item, I return send a message saying that I have gotten it. If you don't get that message then I have not received it. The address is: seponewsletter@gmail.com Happy New Year!

 

Linda Abernethy

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INSIDE SUNSHINE

December 2018

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NOTE: Since this newsletter was sent out in the SEPO Community E-News e-mail it has been updated with info about the Annual Bake Sale and Raffle with Craft Sale on Dec 15.

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FROM SEPO BOARD

 

We are glad to see more and more of our neighbors arriving at Sunshine. We all want to escape the cold northern breezes. Isn’t it nice to not worry about ice and snow, hats, scarves, boots and gloves every time we step outside? Although our annual meeting in February seems a long way away, we are starting to think about candidates for our election. Buzz Sawyer is Chairman of the nominating committee. They will be looking for three or more candidates to fill openings on the board. If you feel you could contribute to the community by serving on the board please call Buzz and let him know. His number is 573-480-6530. This is a chance to use your ideas to make Sunshine a better place to live. The December Board meeting on Monday, December 10th will be held in the library. We will be closing the folding door for a little more privacy. We can live stream to Facebook with our webcam from the library without losing connection like we experienced in November. We hope the sound will be improved so you can hear us better. As usual if you wish to bring something before the board please tell Valerie the week before the meeting so we can put you on the agenda. All of your board members are working hard to maintain the common areas so you can use them for your enjoyment. The golf course is looking wonderful and I see many golfers enjoying the course. The swamp area is finally beginning to dry out a little and we hope we don’t get any big rains in December. The park along Texas Avenue looks great and I hope you have been enjoying the birds in that area. The roseate spoonbills are a gorgeous bird and one we never see up north. Please enjoy some of the parties and activities the Women’s Club and other groups have arranged for the community. Get to know your neighbors and enjoy everything we have to offer for a pleasant retirement here at Sunshine.

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Jean Lawrence,

SEPO Board President

SEPO ELECTION

With 2019 right around the corner, it’s time start thinking about our community and those that we elect to steer the SEPO ship. This year there are 3 positions on the Board of Directors that need to be filled. We're looking for a few good people.The Nominating Committee is in the process of finding qualified candidates so that a list can be presented to the Board by the January meeting. The elections take place in February.
Should you be interested in running for one of these positions or just want more information, please contact me. Thank you.

Buzz Sawyer, Chairman
573-480-6530

 

WOMEN'S CLUB

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It’s hard to believe we are well into our season with many activities completed and committees are busy planning for our upcoming events. Thank you to  Lenore Combs & Helen Perry for chairing the Veteran’s Day program & potluck, we are so grateful to all our veteran’s. Thank you to Janis & Derek McFee for chairing the Goofy Golf tournament, fun was had by all! Thank you to Mary & Bob Hendrickson  for chairing the Thanksgiving Day dinner, what amazing cooks we have!  Thank you to the many people that volunteered to help on these committees, without you we could not enjoy all the activities we have.

 

The next Women’s Club meeting will be held December 21st, 9;00am. Please come and enjoy coffee and a donut. If you have not yet signed up for a committee please check out the Women’s Club board in the library, it’s a great way to make new friends!

 

I would like to wish everyone a very blessed Christmas!

 

Eileen Anderson, President

 

Women's Club - Leslie Blasing Concert/Dance

 

Mark your calendars and prepare to be wowed by the RGV’s #1 Female Entertainer – Leslie Blasing. Over the years a lot of you have enjoyed her talents multiple times on the island. She will be performing for us right here at Sunshine on December 6th from 6 - 8 pm in Retzlaff Hall for a mere $6 admission fee. You are encouraged to not only listen to her but to also get up and dance. No food will be served at this Women’s Club event, but feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks. NOTE: The weekly Thursday Happy Hour is still scheduled in the Pavilion that night, so you can attend that first and then come on in to the concert/dance.

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A signup sheet is currently on the easel in the library. After you sign up, fill out the envelope with your information, put your money in the envelope and drop it in the collection box by the easel. We are looking for a sellout so if we don’t have that from within our community by Dec 1, tickets will become available to the public.

 

Contact: Dee Novak (314-846-3199)

 

SEPO Community E-Mail

 

Most of you already know this but here it is one last time. Starting on November 12 I took over the responsibility of sending out the SEPO Community E-mails. Stan Nelson and I did a short training session and away I went. I don’t have a set schedule for checking the e-mail box (sepoenews@gmail.com) but do so as time permits. So if you have something that needs to go out immediately or is time sensitive, give me a call before you send it and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.

 

I want to give a huge Thank You to Stan for performing these duties for the past few years. Volunteering is definitely what it takes to make this community a place we all love.

 

Beth Parrish
Sunshine Country Club E-News
E-Mail: sepoenews@gmail.com
314-960-6710

 

SCCE Web site ( www.sunshinecountryclub.com )

 

I wanted to let everyone know that I have been working on the new SCCE Web site this week. Please go to the site and give me your thoughts. I have already received some suggestions from residents and am working my way through those. It’s definitely a work in progress and will take some time to get all of the information accurate and in formats that are pleasing to the eye. I am also working on  ‘residents only’ tabs that will contain Sunshine proprietary info that we don’t want the ‘world’ to be able to see – such as our phone #s and addresses. These tabs will require our residents to enter a password. Please go to www.sunshinecountryclub.com/residents-only to learn how to obtain the password.

 

This week I concentrated on ‘Activities and Meetings’. For those of you who have been to the site previously, you will notice that I added three sub-pages under the ‘Acty & Mtgs’ tab. And you will see that is where I still need lots of updates. Please send your updates, comments and/or questions to the following new e-mail address:sunshinecountryclubweb@gmail.com .

 NOTE: So as not to be confused - The SEPO Community e-mail address remains the same ( sepoenews@gmail.com ).

 

Thanks in advance for everyone’s help with this endeavor.

 

Beth Parrish

Sunshine Country Club Web site

   (www.sunshinecountryclub.com)

E-Mail: sunshinecountryclubweb@gmail.com

314-960-6710

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SUNSHINE ACTIVITIES VIDEO

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A committee, chaired by Lassey Dahlstrom, has been formed to create a video of you all performing/partaking in as many activities as possible that are going on here at Sunshine. So don’t be surprised if you see one of our residents off in the distance or up close taking a video of you being active here at Sunshine. If your club or activity, i.e. Wood Workers, needs advance notice before we starting filming you, please contact Irene Phillips @ (214) 549-3993.

 

We are in the initial planning phase of this project, so if anyone has suggestions to share, please do so by contacting Lassey. Our goal right now is to make a more lengthy video to share with all of the residents at some sort of gathering in

the Hall. We will also be creating a ‘short’ video to put on the Sunshine Web site.

 

We currently don’t have a completion date for this project but look forward to seeing you on film in the future.

 

LET’S HAVE A LOT OF FUN WITH THIS !!!

 

Beth Parrish

Sunshine Video Communications

E-Mail: bethparrish107@charter.net

314-960-6710

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ANNUAL BAKE SALE AND RAFFLE WITH CRAFT SALE ON DECEMBER 15th
 
It's that time of year for homemade goodies and pretty handmade items. The annual Bake Sale, Raffle and Craft Sale held by the SCCE Women's Club will be Saturday, December 15th at Retzlaff Hall. The doors will open at 8:00am with cinnamon rolls and coffee available for $1. Last year for the first time Glenda and Jerry Wetherbee made lafse that morning for us, and what a treat! They sold out in no time. Glenda and Jerry have generously agreed to come back again.

This is a great time to come relax and enjoy coffee and a treat with your neighbors and visit. Don't forget to buy some homemade goodies to take home also. We are incorporating a cookie walk into the bake sale so you have the option of having more variety. Another thing we are doing this year for the first time is a "Pie a Month" (for 6 months) auction.
 
We will be selling raffle tickets, $1 ea or 6 for $5. You will be able to view the items on display before the drawing, which will be held about 11am. We already have quite a number of nice items donated.
 
Crafters from the Estates are ready to "wow" you with their hand crafted items. What a great time to do some Christmas shopping.
 
Come out, visit, support your community and you might even win a door prize. We plan to give one away every 20 minutes or so but you have to be present to win. We hope to see you there!

Co-chairs if you have questions: Jane Olson 217-414-1656 / Marla Welch 573-465-0050
If you wish to donate to the Raffle, the chair is Marian Young 719-468-4556.

A REQUEST TO ALL LADIES IN SUNSHINE ESTATES
 
Our annual Bake Sale and Raffle is fast approaching. We need the help and support of all the residents for this to be a success. The Women's club has been able to help support our park by purchasing needed equipment and accessories in the past with funds raised. Many of you heard discussed at the November meeting the plans for purchasing a new sound system. This is something that will benefit everyone as it would be used for parties, programs, meetings, memorials and basically all events.
 
Please consider making a generous donation of baked items to make our bake sale a success. The bake sale begins at 8am on Saturday, December 15th in Retzlaff Hall. You may bring donations of baked goods to the hall Friday evening from 6 - 8 pm or beginning Saturday morning at 6:00am. On Saturday morning you must come to the kitchen door as we will not unlock the hall until 8am.
 
Please wrap your items with clear plastic wrap and add a bow or ribbon. Label your item and price it.
 
Co-chairs if you have questions: Jane Olson 217-414-1656 / Marla Welch 573-465-0050

If you wish to donate to the Raffle, the chair is Marian Young 719-468-4556.

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WOODWORKERS' CLUB and WOODSHOP NEWS

 

Activities at the Woodshop are picking up now that SEPO folks are making their treks to the Rio Grande Valley to get away from the cold up north.  Every Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00, except holidays, people will be in the woodshop making bowls, doing other wood projects, and bringing home projects into the woodshop to work on.  If you need tools to complete a project within your home, simply come by the woodshop, secure the tools you need, and have the shop monitor sign them out for you.  All you have to do is bring them back when your project is completed. 

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At the recent Woodworkers’ Club meeting, candidates for office were nominated.  Bill Gibson was nominated for Treasurer; Chuck McEvoy for Secretary; Jack Berning for Vice President; and Suzie Sawyer for President.  Elections will be held on Friday, December 14 at the woodshop at 1:00 p.m. and terms of office will begin in January. Our hats go off to Audrey Just who chose not to run for Treasurer for the coming year.  During the time she served as Treasurer she did a tremendous job and she will be missed.  Thank you, Audrey, for your years of service to the Woodworkers’ Club.  And thanks to Cathy Chajec for jumping in to take minutes of the meeting since Chuck McEvoy hasn’t arrived in the RGV yet.  The gathering heard that Harold Gunderson and his wife, Shirley, are moving to San Antonio to be closer to family.  The Woodworkers will really miss Harold; he did a lot for the organization.  We wish them all the best the future can bring.

 

The Woodworkers’ Club thanks Vern Luellen for taking care of our can recycling project last year and bringing in enough money to restock the supplies that are needed within the woodshop.  Vern announced at the Woodworkers’ meeting that he promised to do that for only one year, so Sandy Gades and Ron Pemberton have offered to handle that project for the Club.  Please save your aluminum cans and drop them off at the “can shed” in the storage lot.  Direction signs will guide you to the “can shed”.

 

If you happen to be interested in joining the Woodworkers’ Club, a mandatory tool orientation will be held at 4:00 p.m. on November 27th (call John Chajec at 708-280-8940) for people who would like to have access to the woodshop, and members who are interested in becoming a monitor at the shop can attend a training on December 4 at 1:30 p.m. (call Pat Harvey at 956-320-7280).

 

We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and we look forward to seeing some new faces at the woodshop and the Woodworkers’ Club meetings.

 

MARK YOUR CALENDAR:  The woodshop spaghetti dinner is scheduled for January 29.  Tickets will go on sale about 2 weeks before the event. 

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Suzie Sawyer, President

 

LAS VEGAS GOLF  SCRAMBLE

 

The Annual LAS VEGAS GOLF SCRAMBLE will be Saturday, Dec. 8th. Sign up sheets will be in the library Monday, Nov. 26th until noon, Thursday, Dec 6th.Also, be sure to put your name & latest handicap on the fee envelope with the $5.00 (cash) inside. Drop it into the golf fee box below the sign up sheet! Play will be limited to the first90 players. All residents, renters & house guests invites! Prizes will be awarded following the POTATO BAKE IN THE Hall. All entry fees will be returned in awards!

 

Call Judy Parker: 956-245-4156 if you have any questions.

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LADIES GOLF

 

BAKED POTATO SUPPER

WITH ALL THE FIXINS

DECEMBER 8, 2018

FOLLOWING THE LAS VEGAS SCRAMBLE

SOCIAL HOUR  4:30 PM

DINNER AT 5:00 PM

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VIRTUAL TICKET SALES IN THE LIBRARY STARTING NOVEMBER 29, 2018

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$6.00 PER PERSON, OPEN TO ALL

 

PUT $6.00 PER PERSON IN THE ENVELOPE WITH EACH NAME ON THE OUTSIDE AND

 

PUT IT IN THE BOX. SEE YOU THERE

 

CHRISTMAS  GOLF CART & BICYCLE PARADE-- Saturday 15 Dec 2018

5:00 pm Christmas Tree Lighting and start of Golf Cart Parade

Contact: Lenore J. Combs 956 245 1276

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We welcome everyone. You are all cordially invited. Come one, come all – decorated cart or not. Just join in on the festivities and have fun.

 

The “true meaning of Christmas” is a phrase that began to appear in the mid 19th century when a shift toward a more secular culture began. But actually some feel that the true meaning of Christmas is how to bring the greatest happiness to others – take Charlie Brown vs. the Grinch. So let’s all enjoy the day.

 

If you wish not to be in the parade – be a great spectator! Gather your buddies, grab a lawn chair and enjoy in the merriment. The Parade route (both Encore & Sunshine) will be posted in the Library. The improved route is under construction and is more inclusive as we shall devote more time to this per your request.

 

• Harlingen and Combes Police Department will lead out followed by Neighborhood Watch Captain and assorted Golf Carts. The Harlingen Fire Truck will bring Santa.

• 4:30 pm Line up behind Friendship Hall at Encore for judging etc.

• 5:00 pm Parade start - we will do a brief Christmas Tree Lighting by Registration Office and let the Parade begin.

• Travel thru Encore Route – go thru open gate to Texas Avenue (will not be chained)

• Travel thru Sunshine route

• End up at Retzlaff Hall for refreshments etc., photo op with Santa and awards.

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Game plan:

• Everyone is invited to participate – tell your friends and neighbors.

• The Prize Patrol will award three prizes from Sunshine and 3 prizes from Encore for decorated Golf Carts.

• There is a sign-up sheet for the Parade (decorated or not)

• There is a sign-up sheet for the Cookie Contest. Bake a dozen or so and you many win a prize. There is a sign – up sheet for Help in Retzlaff Hall. Just a little help needed for the nourishments – cookies, hot cocoa, cider etc.

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Recommended Parade safety tips:

• Be sure your cart is fully charged. Lights are needed for night driving. Be sure your bicycle has safety lights. No walkers as we will be moving briskly.

• Keep up with speed - Pull over if a problem – NW escorts will assist you.

Golf Cart Safety tips:

• A good strategy: Drive responsibly, operate safely and prevent accidents. Recommended prior to the Golf Cart Parade, please check brakes, tires, steering and lights. Fully charge your golf cart.

• Operate in the parade at a well- paced speed. Keep up. Do not get off route.

• Safety mirrors are ok but with many guests, better to use your eyes and ears before maneuvering. Use your passenger as a “lookout” too. Please remain seated thru-out the route.

• Back at the Tree Lighting, be aware – lots of foot traffic. Pedestrians have the right of way.