Sunrise Country Club Homeowners Association - Community Spotlight - Coachella Valley Community Associations institute magazine
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September 2012
Coachella Valley Community Associations Institute Magazine
Inside
Bye-Bye, Budget Stress!
Welcome to Team CAI
CAI-CV Committees for 2013
Waking The Sleeping Board
Smart Scalping
Community Spotlight
Sunrise Country Club
Homeowners Association
#
1 Paving Company
2012 Corporate
Sponsors
in the Valley!
Platinum_________________
AMS Paving
Asphalt MD’s
Epsten Grinnell & Howell
Fiore Racobs & Powers
Nelson Paving & Sealing
Honesty, Integrity, Quality
O’Connell Landscape Maintenance
Pacific Western Bank
Peters & Freedman
Seacoast Commerce Bank
Securitas Security Services USA, Inc.
Sunshine Landscape
Verizon Enhanced Communities
Western Pacific Roofing
Gold______________________
Ben’s Asphalt, Inc.
Conserve LandCare
Flood Response
LaBarre/Oksnee Insurance
Powerful Pest Management
Sign-A-Rama
Silver_____________________
Animal Pest Management Services
CTI of the Desert
Diversified Waterscapes Inc.
Mutual of Omaha Bank/CondoCerts
PWLC II, Inc.
Time Warner Cable Our Services:
Universal Protection Service • Asphalt Repair, Patching & Crackfill
• Asphalt Removal & Replacement
Bronze___________________
• Grading and New Paving
Advanced Painting & Wood Repair
Artistic Maintenance • Overlays and Fabric Overlays
AWS Consultants, Inc. • All types of Slurry Seals,
MC Painting & Construction Pavement Coatings and Striping
Prendiville Insurance
Rey Insurance Services
Sky Security Services
Union Bank
Serving all of Southern California Since 1981
Vista Paint
amspaving.com
License #415436
760-327-0800
2 Quorum September, 2012
Contents
GURALNICK & GILLILAND, LLP
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Community Spotlight
Member of CAI and CACM 10
10 Sunrise Country Club
By Tony Brunner
Legal Services for Features
Community Associations Board of Directors
Coachella Valley Chapter 2012 13 Bye-Bye, Budget Stress!
Rob Winkle, President Plan Ahead to Avoid Anxiety
Western Pacific Roofing By Leslee Williams, AMS, CMCA, CCAM
Nena Rutherford-Milward, CMCA, AMS
• General Counsel President - Elect 16 Welcome to Team CAI
Desert Resort Management
Getting the Most Out of
• Assessment Lien and Foreclosure Art Coulter, Past President
Your Membership
Palm Valley Homeowners Association, Inc.
• No Cost Collections By Cyndi Koester, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, AVP
Christina Baine DeJardin, Esq.
• Fees Paid by Delinquent Homeowner Peters & Freedman, LLP 13 16
• Detailed Monthly Status Reports Cyndi Koester, PCAM 18 CAI-CV Committees for 2013
• Title Reports at No Charge to Association Mutual of Omaha Bank/CondoCerts
Gloria Kirkwood, CCAM 21 Protecting the Sexual Innocence
• Construction Defect/Reconstruction Palm Valley Homeowners Association, Inc. of our Children
Grace Paluck Are You Prepared?
• Mold Claims/Litigation The Management Trust, Monarch Group Division
• Real Estate Dispute/Litigation By Diane Cranley, President, TAALK
Kristin Berryhill-Hood, CCAM
Merit Property Management Inc. 27 If Your Teeth are Clenched and
Phone: (760) 340-1515 FAX: (760) 568-3053 Michael Walker, CMCA, AMS, PCaM Your Fists are Clenched, Your Lifespan
PGA West Residential Association
Mike Mastropietro
is Probably Clenched 18
Orange Coast Building Services Helpful Ways to Manage Stress
Patricia Smith, PCAM By Gina Roldan
Your HOA can be
Veneto Homeowners Association
28 Waking The Sleeping Board
our next Cover CAI Coachella Valley Office
41-905 Boardwalk Suite A-2
Get Prepared for the Return From Summer Hiatus
21 27
2012
september
By Shelly Ruegsegger, CMCA and
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Steven Shuey, CCAM, PCAM
Tel: (760) 341-0559
Fax: (760) 431-8443
iations ins
titu te magazin
e
Wendy Van Messel, Chapter Executive Director Chapter News
unity Assoc
Va lley Comm
Coachella
E-mail: wvanmessel@cai-cv.org
Website: www.cai-cv.org 43 Have You Heard?
By Wendy Van Messel
InsIde
ess!
44 CAI-CV Chapter
Budget Str
Bye-Bye, I
to Team CA
Welcome
3
itte es for 201
New & Renewing Members
Co mm
CAI-CV Bo ard
Sleepi ng
Waking The lping
Smart Sca
ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS OR
ADVERTISING INFORMATION 45 Advertisers Index
CAI-CV Chapter Executive Director, Wendy Van Messel
No Cost E-mail: wvanmessel@cai-cv.org Chapter events
to you Editor: Terry Smith 28
Spotlig
ht
E-mail: editor@cai-cv.org 24 July Monthly Program
Every cover b
Co mmunity
The materials contained in this publication are designed to CAI-CV & RCSA Joint Program:
has a story. ountry Clu
Sunrise C Association
Tell us yours! Homeow ners provide our members with accurate, timely and authoritative
information with regard to the subject covered. However, the
Protecting Our Communities. 24 38
Must be CAI-CV member
in good standing CAI Coachella Valley Chapter is not engaging in the rendering of 38 A Day at the Races
legal, accounting or other professional types of services. The CV
Chapter has not verified and/or endorsed the contents of these 48 Schedule of Events
(760) 341-0559
articles or advertising, nor do we have the facilities or the person-
Contact nel to do so. Readers should not act on the information contained
Wendy
at the CAI-CV Office wvanmessel@cai-cv.org
herein without seeking more specific professional advice from
legal, accounting or other experts as required.
4 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 5
Contents
Departments
8
9
President’s Message
From the Editor
14 cai MORTGAGEMATTERS
14 CAI National
Editorial Board
CAI Endorses Responsible Homeowner 15 28
Editor
Refinancing Act of 2012
Terry Smith
CAI-CV Administrative Assistant By Staff Writer, CAI
Committee Members 15 Time Honored Member
GINA ROLDAN Phyllis Harkins
Vista Paint By Pat Smith, CCAM, PCAM and
JAY POWELL Shelly Ruegsegger, CMCA
PWLC II, Inc.
KYM TAYLOR 28 Homeowners Association Law
Staples Copy & Print
Election Disputes
LAURIE S. POOLE, ESQ.
Peters & Freedman, LLP
Court of Appeal Rules Associations Not 32 34
Subject to Unfair Competions Law
LESLEE WILLIAMS
The Management Trust, Monarch Group Division By Holly Amaya, Esq.
PAULA TAPIA
Pacific Western Bank 32 One Green World
PHYLLIS HARKINS, CMCA, CCAM Smart Scalping
Palm Desert Country Club Association The Practical Re-Seeding Process
SHELLY RUEGSEGGER, CMCA By Eric Schmidt
Personalized Property Management
STEVEN SHUEY, PCAM, CCAM
Personalized Property Management
34 About CLAC
History of CAI-CLAC
HOA Banking STEVEN J. TINNELLY, ESQ.
Interview with Lobbyist Skip Daum
Tinnelly Law Group
SUE ANDERSON By Kimberly Lilley
Universal Protection Service
Seacoast Commerce Bank offers a
full range of comprehensive banking
Teri Braden 36 Coffee Talk
and financial services for Homeowner Ben’s Asphalt Inc. By Phyllis Harkins
Associations and property management
companies. Tony Brunner 42 43
Country Club Remodeler 42 Water Wise
Hoa BanKInG Plant Now for a Beautiful, Efficient 36
solutIons Creative Director & Graphic Designer
Garden Throughout the Year
• Depository Rodney Bissell
Services Bissell Design Studios By Dave Koller
• Cash
Management 43 Welcome Aboard
• Remote Deposit The mission of CAI is to provide the Karen Tillotson
Seacoast Commerce Bank provides our
Property Management and Homeowner
Capture leadership for successful development and By Jay Powell
• Lockbox operation of community associations through
Association clients the ability to maximize
Services
their use of bank services. We understand
the unique Banking needs of our Property • ACH Origination
information, research and education.
Management and Association clients,
• HOA Financing
providing industry specific products and
customer service that you have grown to • Online Dues
expect and deserve. Program
Subscriber services
The Coachella Valley Quorum Newsmagazine
Ken Carteron is a publication expressly prepared for our Association
Senior Vice President
leaders, managers and other related professionals of the
Property Management Banking Division
760-803-9541 Mobile Community Associations Institute. Authors are encouraged
760-301-0046 Fax to submit articles for publishing consideration. All articles
kcarteron@sccombank.com accepted for publication in the Quorum are subject to
editing and rewriting by the Publications Committee.
77-564 Country Club Dr., Ste. 206, Palm Desert, CA 92211
6 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 7
President’s Message from the Editor
President’s Message From the Editor
Rob Winkle, Western Pacific Roofing Corporation Terry Smith, CAI-CV Administrative Assistant
CAI-CV Chapter Board President
Here we are in September and it is still very hot! Most of the kids are back in school and I recently passed the one year mark here in the Coachella Valley. I must say that when my
everyone’s schedules are as hectic as ever. Hopefully everyone took advantage of the Labor husband told me we were moving to the “desert” last summer, it didn’t sound very appealing.
Day weekend and is recharged for the season to begin. September 14th is our monthly program I reluctantly packed my bags and landed in Palm Desert as the temperatures hovered at 110
and please note this is a breakfast program. The topic is “Are Your Streets, Pools or Roofs degrees. I was not impressed! As summer dragged on and I got our house in order, it was time
Jeopardized?” The program will be in the format of the popular show Jeopardy and should be to start looking for a job. My attitude about the desert changed dramatically when I came to
entertaining as well as informative. CAI and started meeting all the wonderful people that are associated with this organization. I
Our membership just surpassed the 500 mark for the first time ever. If we maintain the have found a true admiration and appreciation for the volunteers who serve on committees and
number for three months, the Coachella Valley Chapter will be recognized as a large chapter boards and give their time and expertise to serve and improve our community.
instead of a medium-sized chapter. I would like to thank Wendy and Terry for all of their efforts As summer fades and the boards gear up again after the vacation months, stress and anxiety
to continue to grow our chapter. I would also like to thank the Membership and Marketing can take over if we are not prepared. Shelly Ruegsegger and Steven Shuey have co-written an
Committees for the work that they have done this year. It is a real testament to the value of this article to help managers get organized for the first board meeting following the summer hiatus.
Association to continue to grow in spite of such difficult economic times. Bye Bye, Budget Stress by Leslee Williams and Helpful Ways to Manage Stress by Gina Roldan
Due to the commitment of our managers and the success of our M-100 Class that was held provide great suggestions for dealing with stress.
here in May, the Chapter requested an additional class for this year and CAI National granted our For those with a green thumb, don’t miss the article by Dave Koller on planting now for a
request! The M-203, Community Leadership Course, will be held on September 20th and 21st. beautiful garden throughout the coming year and also the helpful hints by Eric Schmidt in his
Scholarships are available to assist with the expenses for this course and others required to obtain Smart Scalping article.
the PCAM designation. Please contact the Chapter office for more information about scholarship Cyndi Koester’s article on Welcome to Team CAI and the subsequent pages that list our 2013
opportunities or if you are interested in taking this class. Committees will hopefully inspire you to get involved and serve. There are many opportunities
Also on September 21st, is “Country Western Roundup.” This is a fun, casual social event that to add your ideas or creative touches to our social events and educational programs.
if you have not attended in the past, should consider. Put on your jeans and boots. Let your hair The dedication of our business partners, community leaders and managers unquestionably
down and enjoy an evening of dancing, laughter and fellowship. exhibits the ability to pull together as a team to make CAI Coachella Valley a true “community.”
On September 11th, please take a moment to remember those who have fallen on that tragic day I am grateful to be a part of the CAI Team.
as well as their families and friends. “We will not forget” stands as true 11 years later as it did the
day after.
“It’s never too late to be what you might have been” - George Eliot
8 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 9
Community Spotlight Community Spotlight
Sunrise
Country Colors Before
Club Colors After
By Tony Brunner, Country Club Remodeler
S unrise Country Club occupies 184 acres of fee land in
the heart of Rancho Mirage. Bob Hope Drive and Coun-
try Club Drive are at its East and North boundaries. Near
Every October at the “Opening Party,” club equity members
and homeowners come together to celebrate the beginning
of a new season.
of Bill Athan, who has been General Manager of the Club
since 1994 and Association Manager since 2005. By unify-
ing management, both HOA and Club have benefited from
began four years ago and is conserving both water and the
electricity needed to pump the water from the well that
supplies the irrigation system.
neighbors are Thunderbird Country Club, The Springs Club, What makes the community different and appealing to efficiencies and economies that have developed over the The Architectural, Landscape, Communication, Long
Clancy Lane and The River retail center. its homeowners is the effective unity of both the country past 7 years and continue to develop. Range Planning, Finance and Safety/Preparedness Com-
Noted developer Bill Bone’s Sunrise Company under- club and the homeowners association. In most similar Sunrise is a mature community and celebrates its 40th mittees assist the seven member HOA Board. Association
took construction in 1973 and 1974. The community com- subdivisions, the developer retains ownership of the golf birthday next year. While its unrivalled location gives it dues range from $430 to $505 depending on floor plan.
prises 746 condominium units in 187 fourplexes together course and clubhouse facilities as a profit center wholly a natural competitive edge over other developments, the CAI Business Partners serving the Association are Sun-
with clubhouse facilities set amidst a 64-par 18-hole execu- distinct from the homeowners association. Oftentimes, Sunrise HOA Board has long planned to address the natu- shine Landscape, Asphalt MD’s, Patio Furniture Doctors,
tive golf course designed by Ted Robinson. This was Bill the developer will sell these facilities to a third party. By ral aging of the community’s fabric that might otherwise Valley Pools, Fiore Racobs & Powers (Gen Wangler), and
Bone’s first major development in the Coachella Valley. contrast, Sunrise Country Club, for all practical purposes, threaten this edge. To this end, the HOA Board settled on SCT Reserve Consultants, Inc. (Mike Graves).
The clubhouse occupies some 16,000 square feet and combines the country club with the homeowners associa- an updated color scheme for the development and in April Says Bill Athan, “Our staff takes great pride in servicing
offers a restaurant, a fitness/activity center, a lap pool and tion. Although theoretically distinct and served by two this year began painting all 746 condos. This renovation the needs of the homeowners and members and in taking
13 tennis courts. Distributed throughout the community separate boards of directors, in practice the HOA members project includes replacing all signage, both street name and care of their homes!” Bill is grateful for the support of both
are 4 lakes, 21 swimming pools and 19 spas. and the country club’s equity members are virtually the “notices,” along with new street lights and address lights. Sunrise Boards of Directors and their continuing efforts to
The one, two and three bedroom condominium units same people. The project is scheduled for completion in mid-October make Sunrise the very best.”
range in size from 850 square feet to 2,100 square feet. While there are a number of non–resident equity mem- and is being paid for out of reserves with no special assess-
Prices for these homes during the past year or so have bers, all homeowners, regardless of their equity status, are ments. In difficult economic times, this speaks volumes for Tony Brunner is with Country Club Remodeler, a
ranged from $80,000 to $350,000. associate members of the club and support its operations the Sunrise HOA Board’s fiscal prudence. high quality, affordable remodeling contractor
About one-third of the Sunrise members are full time through monthly social dues. This results in a great sense Modernization of the community includes a very serving Coachella Valley homeowners. You can
residents but all enjoy the location and appearance of the of community and harmony at Sunrise Country Club. aggressive landscape and maintenance program. This reach him at (760) 772-4300 or at
community and the friendliness of their fellow owners. Management of both entities is unified in the person involves a gradual conversion to “desert landscape,” which tony@countryclubremoder.com.
10 Quorum September, 2012 11
Feature
Bye-Bye, Budget Stress!
Plan Ahead to Avoid Anxiety
By Leslee Williams, AMS, CMCA, CCAM
The Management Trust,
Monarch Management Division
I t’s happened to a lot of us before. The quiet sum-
mer ends and all of a sudden you’re being pulled in
special attention when preparing preliminary bud-
gets. Make sure you know the status of all delinquen-
PETERS
a million different directions by walkthroughs, board cies to keep track of how much money your associa-
tion REALLY has to spend each month. If your asso-
&
meetings and committee meetings. For about two
months it feels like you’re stuck in a swirling cloud of ciation is in financial trouble, take the initiative to call
action items, phone calls and emails. When the dust your business partners and ask about ways to reduce
FREEDMAN, L.L.P. finally begins to settle, you realize that it’s October and costs. Going through these steps will show the board
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
budgets need to be prepared, approved and mailed out that you care enough to have already explored alter-
in less than two months. Stress! native options. They will feel more inclined to listen
How can this be avoided? Take a deep breath, grab to your recommendations if they see you committed
encinitas office desert office valuable time to them.
a cup of chamomile tea, light some lavender candles
760 436 3441 760 773 4463 A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM
and read these few pointers on how to minimize bud-
Experience you can rely on get season anxiety. 4. Schedule a Budget Hour. If you set a block of time
www.hoalaw.com • mail@hoalaw.com People you can trust aside once or twice a week you won’t feel as over-
1. Start Early! This year I started planning my bud- whelmed by the budgeting process. Put it on your
gets in early July. You’re probably thinking I’m crazy calendar as if it was an actual meeting. When the time
since I only have 5 or 6 months’ worth of financials comes, close your door, let your calls go to voicemail,
to work off of. Lucky for me, I actually have 12 sets ignore that pop-up notification when a new email
to rummage through – more if I really wanted them. comes in and focus on the task at hand. You’ll be sur-
No, I’m not psychic. I use the financial history of my prised at how much you can accomplish in as little as
associations to better understand their spending pat- an hour.
terns. During your review, I guarantee you will start
to notice line items that need attention. Unless your 5. Don’t Ignore Reserves. Review your reserve study. No
association has gone through an extremely signifi- I’m serious; REALLY review your reserve study. What
cant change in their day-to-day operations, there isn’t projects are set to be done in the next year or two? Do
Water Efficient
Environmentally Friendly much difference in the prior year’s numbers. These they really need to be done within this specified time
Landscape Conversions
Landscape Management are good tools you have at your disposal. Use them! frame? Is a repair or a replacement appropriate? How
Programs much are these projects going to cost? Call in a busi-
Design & Installation 2. Do Your Homework. Utility companies will have an ness partner to look over the condition of the reserve
idea of whether they are anticipating an increase in components that have been identified for repair/
their next fiscal year by summertime. Your business replacement in the next two years and get real costs
partners will too. Call them and ask what they foresee for them. Adjust your reserve contribution appropri-
Technologically Advanced Water Audits & Cost in the way of increases over the next year. Do this for ately. Your Board will be asking these questions so try
Water Management Effective Solutions every association. Yes, it takes time, but its valuable to have the answers ready.
Practices For Tiered Water Rates information that will save you from financial anxiety
Fall is a busy and stressful time for us. I hope these
in the next fiscal year. Plus, you’ll look like a super-
tips will help alleviate the budget season blues for you
star to your boards when you present them with your
as much as they have for me.
findings.
760-343-1433
74-040 Highway 111, Suite L200 Leslee Williams, AMS, CMCA, CCAM is an
Palm Desert, California 92260
3. Be a Proactive Problem Solver. Make it a habit to Association Manager with The Management
really look through your comparative income state- Trust, Monarch Group Division. You can
www.ConserveLandCare.com Lic. # 958748 ments every month. Line items that are consistently reach Leslee at (760) 776-5100 or by email at
over budget should be red flags and they will need leslee.williams@managementtrust.com.
12 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 13
CAI National
Time Honored Member
cai MORTGAGEMATTERS By Pat Smith, CCAM, PCAM, Veneto HOA
and Shelly Ruegsegger, CMCA,
CAI Endorses Responsible Homeowner Refinancing Act of 2012 Personalized Property Management
By Staff Writer, Community Associations Institute PhyLlis Harkins
C
Phyllis Harkins has resided in
ommunity Associations the foreclosure crisis and the number of neighbors who can no longer afford to the Coachella Valley for 25 years.
Institute has endorsed S. pay assessments. These higher costs threaten the financial stability of house- Phyllis has no children but is the
3085, the “Responsible Homeowner holds shouldering a disproportionate share of association costs. Allowing more proud godmother of 27 children
Refinancing Act of 2012.” The legisla- households to refinance their mortgages at current, historically low interest of friends and now grandchil-
tion, spearheaded in the U.S. Senate rates will save these homeowners an average of $2,500 per year. dren. In her leisure time, Phyllis
by Senators Robert Menendez (NJ) and S. 3085 will allow more households to refinance their mortgages by making enjoys traveling, wine tastings,
Barbara Boxer (CA), will help more targeted changes to the Home Affordable Refinance Program, or HARP. While reading and yard work. The
homeowners with mortgages greater HARP does not cover all mortgage loans, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac currently book presently on her night table
than the value of their home refinance own almost 70 percent of all mortgages in the nation. is Rick Steves’ Eastern Europe
and lower monthly mortgage payments. Under current HARP guidelines, borrowers often do not have a choice in Guidebook.
The housing and foreclosure crisis lender when refinancing their mortgage because HARP rules do not easily per- Phyllis has been a CAI member for over 10 years and
has left millions of American home- mit such a change. This means that borrowers are often charged higher inter- is currently serving on the Quorum Committee. She
owners with homes that are worth less est rates and do not receive the greatest benefit from the refinance. S. 3085 will originally joined CAI to gain education regarding com-
than the outstanding balance of their repeal this restriction in HARP and require lenders to compete against each munity associations and to keep current with legislative
mortgage. To help these “underwater” other for refinance business. This competition will save borrowers an additional updates. When she bought her home in Palm Desert
homeowners refinance their mort- Country Club 12 years ago, she had no idea what a home-
gages, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac The purpose of HARP is to allow underwater owners association was or how they were governed.
created the Home Affordable Refi- borrowers who are current on their mortgage Phyllis was asked to join the Board of Directors of her
nance Program, known as HARP. association and over the years, served as its’ treasurer,
The purpose of HARP is to allow
obligations to refinance at today’s historically secretary and president. She was then offered the job as
underwater borrowers who are cur- low interest rates. the association manager and was excited to undertake
rent on their mortgage obligations to the challenges it offered. Phyllis states that “I have the
$8,000 to $10,000 over the life of their loan.
refinance at today’s historically low unique position of managing myself as I live in the com-
Writing to Senator Menendez, CAI noted that relying on fewer households to
interest rates. By refinancing, these munity I manage. Serving on the Board was excellent
cover association costs “leads to more foreclosures, financially distressed asso-
families save thousands of dollars a training to be ready for questions that directors will ask.”
ciations, and a downward cycle in the community association market.” CAI told
year. These savings make it less likely Her favorite saying is “will this matter a year from now?”
Senator Menendez that “S. 3085 will blunt the financial strain placed on these
that underwater borrowers will default Phyllis wonders when a college or university will
families, ensuring that more residents…have the capacity to meet their obliga-
on their mortgages, preventing fore- establish a “homeowner association curriculum” as,
tions to their neighbors.”
closures and saving taxpayer money. like her, most managers never envisioned being in this
As part of our ongoing Mortgage Matters program, CAI is working to protect
In January, Fannie Mae and industry when attending college. Phyllis has 21 years
homeowners in community associations and to ensure access to fair and afford-
Freddie Mac announced additional with the Marriott Corporation and that experience
able mortgage products for all current and potential community association res-
changes to HARP to help even more impressed on her the value of customer service, which is
idents. You can follow our work and share your thoughts at www.caimortgage-
borrowers refinance under the pro- a large component of the HOA industry.
matters.org. CAI will continue to monitor and participate in shaping changing
gram. Since these changes were Phyllis feels that the one person who encouraged her
federal housing policies to ensure the perspective of community associations
implemented in March, Fannie Mae as a mentor was her cousin, Eleanor, who was a work-
is heard. This is one of the many benefits of belonging to an organization that
and Freddie Mac report a significant ing woman long before it was the norm and told her to
works for you on the local, state and federal level.
increase in HARP refinancing. pursue a career that she wanted and not the career that
As a consequence of the housing her parents wanted for her. She has been in the HOA
CAI articles are researched and written by a team of professionals with the CAI
crisis, homeowners in community industry for 13 years, 8 as a director on her association
National Headquarters. CAI provides information and education to community
associations face higher housing costs associations and the professionals who support them. For additional information, board and 5 as a manager. She has obtained her CMCA
as assessments are increased due to visit them at www.caionline.org. and is working on the AMS designation.
14 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 15
Feature
HOA Banking Solutions
Welcome to Team CAI
Getting the Most Out of Your Membership
Cash Management
Solutions
HOA
Loans
Innovative Lockbox
Processing Capabilities
Online Access
and Research
Multiple Payment
Options
By Cyndi Koester, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, AVP, Mutual of Omaha Bank Building Your Franchise – More ways
to connect with members and expand
Team CAI – CAI is the only nonprofit Suiting Up – Whether you conduct involved at the local level. Make sure your reach on the chapter or national
organization dedicated to providing business at the local, national or you are listed in the chapter directory. level include:
tools and resources that help com- global level, one of the most important • Serving on chapter committees or
Making the Plays – Getting involved on special projects
munity associations meet the needs of things you can do is let people know
with your chapter is where the action
their residents. you’re in the game. • Service on the chapter Board or
really starts, and networking is the
As a member of CAI, you are part Show you’re a member of the team running for a national position Partner with Strength. Partner with Pacific Western Bank.
name of the game.
of an international team of more than by adding the CAI member logo to • Creating special programs
Networking within the chapter is
30,000 volunteer board members, your advertisements, letterhead, web that work with community
the way to build relationships, meet
management professionals and busi- pages, business cards and e-mail associations
potential clients and increase your
ness partners. signatures. • Take the Business Partner Essen-
name recognition.
tials course offered on-line to
The Playing Field – For nearly Attending chapter events is
help better understand CAI,
40 years, CAI has been the the best way to expand your net- community associations and Over 75 Offices throughout California
industry leader in building work and increase your visibil- the industry at large. By taking
better communities. Your CAI ity. You can find all upcoming Member Paula Tapia, Assistant Vice President | (760) 777-6445 | ptapia@pwbonline.com
this course, you will distinguish FDIC
membership opens the door events on the chapter website! 78-080 Calle Estado, Suite 101, La Quinta, California 92253
yourself as an Educated Business
to decision-makers across the Partner.
Becoming an MVP – The most www.pacificwesternbank.com
marketplace:
valuable players are experts in Additional Benefits – Whether you
• 300,000 associations their field. Gain name recogni- are a business partner, manager, or
• 60 million residents tion and build a lasting reputa- community volunteer, there are many
• 1.8 million association tion by showing what you know. additional benefits of being a CAI
board members Speak at chapter events and member. These include free newslet-
• 60,000 community write articles for chapter publi- ters and discounted publications;
managers cations to establish yourself as a professional designations and certifi-
• 10,000 management “resident expert” and your busi- cations; and discount programs, just
companies ness as the go-to resource. to name a few.
Getting in the Game – Now that you’re
Take advantage of opportunities to To download the CAI member
suited up, it’s time to get in the game.
Your Position – Before you begin mar- share tips and best practices and let logos, CAI National Service Directory
When you join, you’re automati-
keting with CAI, it is helpful to define members know how your business can or to view a list of benefits, please visit
cally listed in CAI’s National Service
your position in the field. This allows help their communities. www.caionline.org. To view activities
Directory. This members-only benefit
you to identify your strengths and at the local level or to get involved with
raises your profile and helps you reach Avoiding a Foul – When speaking at
focus on your goals. Start by asking the chapter, please visit our website
buyers and decision makers. You events or writing articles for publica-
yourself: at www.cai-cv.org or call the office at
can also upgrade your listing to add tions, be sure you’re sharing expertise
• What is the scope of my busi- (760) 341-0559.
ness (local, regional, national or features. Consider it the Team Roster. rather than promoting your product or
Come be a part of Team CAI and get
international)? You’re not in the game until you’re on service.
in the game!
it, and everyone knows what position It may be tempting to see this as an
• Who is my target audience (man-
agement companies, association you play. opportunity for free advertising, but
Cyndi Koester, CMCA, AMS,
board members and/or other if your pitch veers into sales territory,
Taking the Field – CAI has 60 chap- PCAM, National instructor
business partners)? potential clients may cry “foul.” for CAI. Cyndi joined
ters worldwide. Each new member is
• What is the focus of my product There are many advertising, exhibit Mutual of Omaha Bank in
automatically assigned to a chapter
or service (improving association and sponsorship opportunities at the January 2005 where she is
based on his or her location.
operations, streamlining com- local and national levels to promote the AVP of Southern California.
Secure the home field advantage by
munications, maximizing assets, your products and services. Cyndi can be reached at
contacting your chapter about getting
protecting property values)? Cyndi.Koester@mutalofomahabank.com.
16 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 17
Feature Feature
CAI-CV Committees for 2013*
So you want to get involved? Please networking and relationship building Membership Committee – Publications Committee – Social Events Committees –
review the following committee among business partners, managers Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13 Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13 Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13
opportunities. Once you submit a and board members. The committee works to strengthen To provide support to the Quorum Each social event has its own plan-
Volunteer Interest Form, it will be and promote the Coachella Valley Committee Chair; assist with stan- ning committee. These events
passed to the committee chair who California Legislative Action Chapter of CAI through marketing dardization and revisions to the sub- provide a social networking
will determine if you are a good fit for Committee (CLAC) – membership benefits, promoting mission guidelines for articles to be environment with opportunities
the committee’s needs. Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13 the mission of CAI, recruiting new published in the Quorum; assist with for business partners, manag-
The Legislative Action Committee members and the retention of exist- determination on article submission ers and community volunteer
Awards Committee – supports the CAI California Legisla- ing members. The committee works compliance when requested by Chair; leaders to come together and
Term runs from 1/1/13 thru 12/31/13
tive Action Committee’s (CLAC) lobby- to create an environment that encour- assist with review and update of the enjoy an atmosphere of fun
Plans the annual Awards event.
ing efforts in Sacramento at the local ages networking and relationships Quorum Committee Charter. Com- and pleasure while learn-
Selects the theme, venue, decorations,
level by disseminating information to within the membership. mittee consists of 1 – Board Member ing more about each other.
menu, invitations, entertainment, and
members, fund raising and generally Manager, 1 – Board Member Business These committees plan and
awards, with all contracts approved by Ambassador (Committee) –
raising awareness about current leg- Partner or 1-Board Member Commu- promote the events, with all
Chapter President. The Chapter mem- Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13
islative issues among members. Chair nity Volunteer Leader and the Quorum contracts approved by Chap-
bership nominates outstanding volun-
and Chapter delegates participate in (A Membership Sub-Committee) Chair/Co-Chairs. In the event of Co- ter President. While these
teers that give tirelessly of their time.
monthly CLAC telephone conferences Greets new members and all Chairs, they will only get one vote and functions are great fun and
The nomination forms are judged and
and presentation of periodic legisla- attendees at the monthly breakfast in the event of a disagreement, the CAI fun is the main objective,
awarded the night of the event.
tive updates at programs, as necessary. and lunch educational programs. Board President will issue the deter- proceeds help offset budget-
Business and Education Attendance at CLAC’s annual “Legisla- Along with the Volunteer Commit- mining vote. ary expenses of the Chapter.
Expo Committee – tive Day in the Capitol” is encouraged. tee creates a warm and welcome Volunteer opportunities are
Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13 feeling. Quorum Committee – available for the following
Education Committee – Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13
social committees:
This committee organizes the Busi- Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13 Volunteer Committee – The Quorum Committee produces the
ness and Education Expo. This event Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13 Bowling Committee
Through fundraising efforts, the Edu- monthly Chapter magazine to provide
offers an education session followed
cation Committee provides scholar- (A Membership Sub-Committee) timely, informative, educational mate-
by an exhibit hall for the Expo which
ships to assist managers and assistant This committee was established rial to the Chapter members. The com-
Casino Night
allows the business partner mem-
managers in the Coachella Valley with to support and assist the Chapter mittee meets monthly and works to Committee
bers the opportunity to display their
the expense related to the various throughout the year. The members produce a top quality magazine. One
goods and services. This provides Country Western
courses required to obtain the PCAM lend their support to other Chapter key objective will be to follow guide-
the managers, board members, and Roundup Committee
designation. This committee also events and committees by filling lines set by the Board and adhere to
other industry related professionals
organizes education classes for board any voids that may exist or by han- deadlines for all publications. Adver- Day at the Races
the chance to learn the products and
member/homeowners and managers, dling any special needs that may tising space is sold and helps offset the Committee
services available.
including updating and maintaining arise. budgetary expenses of this Chapter.
Business Partner Committee – materials for the Essentials Programs.
Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13 Programs Committee –
Marketing Committee – Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13
This committee works to strengthen Term runs from 10/1/12 thru 9/30/13
To plan, stage and present relevant,
business partner relations with the
The Marketing Committee is tasked timely, educational and interesting
Our committees are run by volunteers and your help and support
Chapter through marketing business
partner benefits, promoting relation-
with developing and implementing breakfast and lunch programs to the can make a difference! If you’d like to join a committee, please
a plan for promoting CAI-CV. This members of the Chapter. The com-
ships, networking and recruiting
new business partner members. This
includes, but is not limited to, out- mittee selects topics, speakers and contact the chapter office at (760) 341-0559 or visit the website
reach to non-members and other orga- formats as well as the educational
committee welcomes new business
nizations that work within the associa- content and needs of the Chapter at www.cai-cv.org for a Volunteer Interest Form.
partner members and enlightens them
tion community industry, including members.
with the benefits and opportunities
media, to promote the mission of CAI
of being a CAI member. Promotes
Coachella Valley. * Committees and/or events are subject to change at the discretion of the Board of Directors
18 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 19®
Feature
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ready to service your communities. With national resources
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Protecting the Sexual
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By Diane Cranley,
President, TAALK
Patio Furniture Doctors Inc.
“REFINISHING SPECIALISTS” Child sexual abuse is pre- who are its victims. Unfor- Our kids are counting gets the flu was sexually
dictable and preventable tunately it is our silence that on us to overcome these abused as a child and then
when we surround kids with enables child molesters. natural barriers and our realize that they likely rep-
knowledgeable and outspo- In her book, The Socially hope is that this article will resent just a fraction of the
ken adults and we all play a Skilled Child Molester, Dr. increase your knowledge, people in your life who have
part in the solution. Carla van Dam states that confidence and courage to been affected.
There are over 39 million “Child molesters [also] break the silence that puts Although it’s more
survivors of child sexual gravitate to those people our kids at risk. comfortable to think of
abuse in America(1) and from who are most likely to be Let’s start by looking child sexual abuse in terms
them experts have docu- too polite to fend them off, at the basic facts about of “stranger danger,” it’s a
mented behavior patterns too shy and anxious to tell the child sexual abuse fallacy that child molest-
that appear BEFORE abuse them to leave, too depen- epidemic. ers exploit. In fact, child
We can create a new look with your existing
patio furniture for about 1/2 the cost of new! occurs. With the right train- dent to be assertive, and too molesters appear most often
1 in 4 girls and 1 in
ing, we can recognize when impressed by rank, power, in our inner circles.
We are your only locally owned and operated state of the art 6 boys will be sexually
children are in danger and status or money to do the
refinishing factory in the Coachella Valley for over 25 years. abused before their 18th 30-40% of the time
put boundaries in place to right thing. Child molest-
Please call me any time for your free on-site furniture birthday(3) children are abused by a
directly reduce the risk of ers deliberately associate
assessment. I am always in your neighborhood. family member(2)
abuse. with adults who cannot That’s 20% of our popula-
Owner/Operator Bill Richardson As you can imagine and address these issues. They tion. The Center for Disease
Another 50% by some-
have probably experienced seek out adults who worry Control estimates that
BEST PRICES, QUALITY & SERVICE for yourself, child sexual about hurting people’s feel- 5-20% of the population will
one the child knows and
We can meet or beat any professionally written quote. trusts(2)
abuse is a difficult sub- ings. They charm adults get the flu each year(7). So
(760) 328-8999 ject for most adults to talk
about, let alone the children
who do not believe it could
happen.”(6)
next winter, imagine that
every person you know who
Even if we can accept
that abusers are people we
20 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 21Feature
know, we tend to hold on • Spends excessive time • Sleep disturbances, adults. We all have a
3. Doll, L.S., Koenig, L.J., &
to the image of a middle- emailing and text mes- nightmares, scream- responsibility to recognize
Purcell, D.W. (2004) Child
age man as the typical saging with children ing, sweating these signs and be willing sexual abuse and adult sex-
child molester. While men • Is unusually aware of • Regressive behaviors, to take action by reporting ual risk: Where are we now?
make-up the largest portion kid trends, terminol- bedwetting, separation suspected abuse. In L.S. Doll, S.O. O’Leary,
of the population of child ogy, computer games, anxiety L.J. Koenig, & W. Pequegnat
molesters, we won’t be in and music • Increased interest in To Report Child Abuse (Eds.) From Child sexual
a position to truly protect • Overly interested in the details about sex abuse to adult sexual risk.
children in our lives until sexuality or developing • Exhibiting sexual Call 911 and your local Child Washington, DC: American
we realize that child molest- body of pre-teens and behaviors that are Protection Services agency or Psychological Association.
teens beyond their years 1-800-4-A-CHILD
ers can also be women and
• Arranges to spend • Evidence of physical 4. Sedlak, A.J., Mettenburg, J.,
children. • Numbing pain with
uninterrupted time trauma to the genital To Learn Your Part in Basena, M., Petta, I., McPher-
or anal areas (go to the alcohol, drugs and
40% of the time the with kids Preventing Abuse or Find son, K., Greene, A., and Li,
hospital immediately) cutting
abuser is an older or Resources for Healing S. (2010). Fourth National
• Is great with the kids! • Perfection
larger child(1) or Too good to be true! • Complaints of pain Incidence Study of Child
during urination or Many survivors have Visit www.taalk.org or call Abuse and Neglect (NIS-4):
• Showers kids with gifts, bowel movements 1-888-808-6558 Report to Congress. Washing-
8% of abuse happens treats, special outings shared with us over the
at the hands of the child’s • Exhibiting symptoms years that if you spread their ton, DC: U.S. Department of
• Let’s kids break the of genital or urinary If You or Someone You Know Health and Human Services,
biological mother(4) report cards out across the
rules or get away with tract infections or STDs Struggles with Inappropriate Administration of Children
inappropriate behavior table, it would be simple to
such as offensive odor, Feelings towards Children and Families.
pinpoint exactly when their
• Asks kids to keep redness, rashes or abuse began. That’s similar
secrets burning Visit www.stopitnow.org or 5. Snyder, H N. (2000). Sexual
in these other symptom
• Health issues associ- call 1-888-PREVENT Assault of Young Children
Parents and other con- areas as well - what we’re as Reported to Law Enforce-
cerned adults should be on ated with anxiety such looking for is a sudden and
as chronic stomach ment: Victim, Incident, and
the lookout for these signs drastic change in behavior. Offender Characteristics.
pain or headaches
and be willing to set bound- We encourage you to Washington, D.C.: National
aries that keep people who • Self mutilation (punc- make a list of all of the chil- Center for Juvenile Justice,
turing with pins or U.S. Department of Justice.
exhibit these signs from dren in your life. Then on a
cutting)
having access to kids. In monthly basis take the time
addition, 80% of childhood • Aggressive behavior to compare the lists above 6. van Dam, C. (2006). The
Now that we understand towards friends and socially skilled child molester:
sexual abuse happens in to their behavior and that of
how prevalent child sexual family Differentiating the guilty
one adult – one child situa- the adults and older chil-
abuse is and who child • Hurting animals, start- from the falsely accused.
tions(5). So, minimizing pri- dren around them.
molesters are we are in a ing fires or displaying a Binghamton: The Hawthorn
vate access to children can
better position to protect deep sense of anger Press, Inc.
significantly lower the risk References
children. Let’s take the next • Withdrawal from
of abuse. We suggest you
step and look at some of the friends, family or 7. www.cdc.gov/flu/about/
keep the number of people 1. Abel, G., Becker, J., Mittel-
behavior patterns that child activities they previ- qa/disease.htm#deaths.
who have private access man, M., Cunningham-Rath-
molesters exhibit BEFORE ously enjoyed
to your kids to less than a ner, J., Rouleau, J., & Murphy,
abuse occurs: • Anxiety or panic W. (1987). Self reported sex Diane Cranley is
handful. the Founder and
• Makes you or children attacks crimes on non-incarcerated
feel uncomfortable We’re not likely to be President of
• Fear of certain people, paraphiliacs. Journal of In-
by lack of respect for able to stop every incidence TAALK, a
places or activities terpersonal Violence, 2(1).
boundaries of abuse and since child federally approved non-profit
sexual abuse is so difficult • Excessive sadness or agency dedicated to breaking
• Engages in excessive depression 2. Abel, G. & Harlow, N.
physical contact with to talk about and children the silence that surrounds
• Decreased school Remember child sexual (2001) Stop child molestation
children (tickle games, often lack “the language” of child sexual abuse.
performance abuse is predictable and book. Abel and Harlow.
wrestling, etc.) abuse needed to tell, it’s up You can reach Diane at
• Eating disorders, loss of preventable when we sur- 1-888-808-6558 or
• Spends more time with to adults to recognize the
appetite, gagging round children with knowl- dcranley@taalk.org.
children than adults signs as follows:
edgeable and outspoken
his/her own age
22 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 23July Monthly Program Chapter Events
Guest Speaker:
CAI-CV & RCSA Joint Program: Diane Cranley
Founder & President, TAALK
Protecting Our Communities Speaker Sponsored By:
Universal Protection Service
Arm yourself with the knowledge to protect Thanks To Our July
the families in our communities! Program Sponsors:
AMS Paving, Inc.
Animal Pest Management Services, Inc.
Asphalt MD’s
Behr Processing Corporation
Boyd & Associates
CertaPro Painters
Desert Properties Light Maintenance
Epsten Grinnell & Howell APC
FenceWorks, Inc.
Flood Response
Heightened Security
Mutual of Omaha Bank
Nelson Paving & Sealing
O’Connell Landscape Maintenance
PWLC II, Inc.
REVCO Solar Engineering, Inc.
Securitas Security Services USA, Inc.
Sky Security Services
Thanks To Our July
Manager Table Sponsor:
Verizon Enhanced Communities
Thanks To Our
Scholarship Sponsor:
Pacific Western Bank
Event Photographer:
Bill Richardson
24 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 25Feature
Stress is inevitable in this business but we have to find
a way to lessen our stress load to keep from getting burned
out! I go into work each day with a smile on my face,
expecting the best. I work with a wonderful assistant who
is always happy and positive and keeps me in a great mood.
I think that what helps the most during the day to keep my
stress down is listening to music, but above all I have to
remind myself that there is a fix to everything and once we
know better we do better. There are going to be times when
something takes longer than we anticipated or doesn’t turn
out the way we expected, but each day is an opportunity
to learn and figure out how to improve our way of doing
things. Each time we learn to improve, we cut down on the
amount of time we will spend working on that item the next
If Your Teeth are Clenched and time around. I also do my best to finish projects and action
items completely. I have seen too many instances where a
Your Fists are Clenched, Your manager responds to a homeowner with half of an answer
Lifespan is Probably Clenched to save a few minutes. I know that we are all busy, espe-
cially during season, but a few extra minutes in the begin-
Helpful Ways to ning can save you a lot of time in the end. We all have days
that seem like they are never ending, but just remember
Manage Stress that tomorrow is a new day and walking in with a smile is
the best way to start it!
Melissa Mezzanatto, CCAM®
By Gina Roldan, Vista Paint I now go the gym three to five times a week with my
daughter, Vanessa. We both work out with a trainer three
Let’s face it, we all deal with stress in one way or another. times a week. It really helps to relieve the daily stresses of
Talk! Don’t hold all of your feelings inside. Discuss your the day.
feelings with someone you trust who will listen without Other ways of relieving stress include going shopping
being judgmental or pressuring you to their point of (and I don’t mean grocery shopping)…you know it is a
view. Whether you can change the situation or not, talk- girl’s favorite thing to do! Along with spending time on the
ing alleviates some of the tension you may be feeling. weekends with my grandkids and a great granddaughter,
Listen to your body. If you learn about how your watching them around the pool or playing games is better
body reacts to stress, you can also learn how to counter than any entertainment you can pay for!
that stress. Learn to listen to your body’s signals and find Kelly Robertson, CCAM® CMCA® AMS®
ways to reduce your stress, even if it’s just “taking five” to
Exercise! For me there is no better way to start a day
clear your mind.
than going to boot camp or taking an early morning hike.
If you are stressed and overwhelmed, perhaps you
Challenge yourself and set a goal that is not work related.
are trying to handle too much. Rid yourself of extra
I recently set a goal to run a half marathon. I did it and the
duties that aren’t necessary or important. Learn how to
delegate and how to say “no” without feeling guilty. Ask
for help if you need it.
Learn how to be happy: One thing all of life’s win-
ners have in common is a sense of well-being, a positive
attitude, and realistic goals. Focus on the good things
about yourself, and in your life. Nobody’s perfect. Learn
to enjoy the “little things” that make you happy. We all
deal with stress differently. I asked some managers what
it was that they did to manage stress. Here is what they
had to say.
26 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 27Feature
Waking The
means that they set policy and then confirm that policies • Place a line item on the next meeting agenda
are being adhered to during the normal course of business. calling for the ratification of all actions taken
Actions taken by the association need to be documented. between meetings.
Sleeping Board The main document where action is recorded is in the
minutes of meetings that have been held. Financial reports
can show expenses that were made, but it takes a separate
• Prepare a motion or resolution to facilitate
the approval.
Get Prepared for the Return document to show approval of the expenses. Such approv-
• Finally, as you pass the board meeting information
pack to the board members, write up a few paragraphs
als are required to be made at duly called and qualified
From Summer Hiatus board meetings and therefore the approval will show up in
describing what they will see in the pack and help
them understand the need to review the information
the minutes of a meeting.
prior to the meeting.
Knowing all of the above, one of the main tasks of
By Shelly Ruegsegger, CMCA and
management is to prepare the board of directors to ratify One job of every manager is helping facilitate the meet-
Steven Shuey, CCAM, PCAM
process of training, preparing and focusing on the big event the actions of management that may have been taken ings and preparing board members for the work they need
was a great distraction from the everyday stress of associa- between meetings in an orderly fashion. The manager to accomplish. Taking the above steps will be of great ben-
tion management. It’s so important to carve out a little bit Those of us who have been around the desert for more needs to gather the necessary information to present to the efit to the boards you serve.
of time everyday for yourself. than a few years know how every summer the Coachella board with proper justification for the actions taken in the
Cardinal Ambrose, CCAM® Valley would turn into a ghost town as the “Snow Birds” absence of a meeting. Shelly Ruegsegger is a certified community
would head north to escape the heat. It isn’t like opera- In order to keep that first meeting following a summer association manager with Personalized Property
I exercise every day before I go home to my family. It is Management. She may be contacted at
tions came to a halt during the summer; rather it was a hiatus within a reasonable timeframe, the information
my best stress reliever and I go home happy and ready to sruegsegger@ppminternet.com.
time to get the “major maintenance” items taken care of needs to be prepared and presented in a way that expedites
play with my children!
while the population of people who were impacted was action efficiently. This is where the association manager
Vanessa Robertson, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS® Steven Shuey is a certified professional community
at its lowest. can really shine.
association manager and consultant with
As a manager we all have stressful days! David, my hus- As times changed, more and more people have moved Therefore, to prepare for that first meeting after Personalized Property Management. He may be
band, can always tell when it has been one of those days! to the desert and stay year round. This has caused our summer break, take the following steps: contacted at IslandMgr@aol.com. You can follow
He will look at me and say, “How about we go out for a quick communities to consider having a board made up of
• Keep a folder, either electronically or a physical file him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/@IslandMgr.
bite to eat?” That will usually put a smile on my face, and full time resident owners who understand the needs of
folder, as a depository for all notes of actions taken and
then, when we return home, I disappear into my craft room year-round residents, yet still many leave the area for an
extraordinary expenses.
and will bead for the next couple of hours. I totally forget extended vacation allowing for boards to take a vacation
about whatever it was that stressed me out and start fresh from meetings. Meanwhile, the business of the associa- • Organize these notes such that the board members
the next day! tion goes on without a vacation. will be able to easily understand what happened,
Another way to alleviate stress is to view pictures of Every manager who has experience with boards that recognize the justification, and ratify (approve) the
family and friends. This makes you smile, laugh, some- “take a break” from regular monthly meetings knows actions and expenses.
times cry, and totally takes you away from the day’s rou- that upon return there are more things to talk about and
tine. Works every time! get documented in the minutes of the association. Dur-
Gloria Kirkwood, CCAM® ing the times between meetings, managers collect vari-
ous points of interest to share with the board. In some
Your emotions are contagious, and stress has an impact
cases, certain actions taken need to be approved after
on the quality of your interactions with others. The better
the fact or ratified as approved actions. This pertains
you are at managing your own stress, the more you’ll posi-
particularly to certain expenses that may have been
tively affect those around you, and the less other people’s
made which were not previously budgeted.
stress will negatively affect you.
One of the major duties of the board of directors is
Finding ways to manage stress isn’t about making huge
to oversee the administration of the association. This
changes or rethinking career ambitions, but rather about
focusing on the one thing that’s always within your control:
you. In order to keep that first meeting
following a summer hiatus within
Gina Roldan is a Property Services Representative
with Vista Paint. They offer quality, affordable, a reasonable timeframe, the
earth-friendly coatings. Gina can be reached at information needs to be prepared
(951) 454-2500 or by email at
groldan@vistapaint.com. and presented in a way that
expedites action efficiently.
28 Quorum September, 2012 www.CoachellaValleyCAI.org 29You can also read
