This Week in Nellie Gail Ranch | August 20, 2021

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Parking Lot Concrete Repairs

Monday, August 23, 2021

AMS Paving will perform concrete repairs to a 4ft X 50ft section of the Association Parking Lot on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Temporary no parking and detour signage will be posted in the section outlined in the attached parking lot aerial photo.
View Parking Lot Aerial Photo

Address of Record for Budget Mailing

The 2021-22 budget year starts October 1st. We will be e-mailing the new budget to all homeowners who have signed up for electronic distribution of documents by the end of next week. If you have not previously signed up, please click the button below and complete the form that opens.
Electronic Consent Form

For homeowners who for any reason prefer to receive a hard copy via mail, please review and verify the accuracy of the information we have on file for mailing. Your July 2021 quarterly assessment statement has the information we reflect as your preferred mailing address. Each issue of The Pony Express also includes the address of record. You may e-mail any revisions to admin@nelliegailranch.org or send by mail to 25211 Empty Saddle Drive, Laguna Hills, CA 92653.

Summer Concert Series

Next Friday, August 27 at 7:00 PM

THE MIGHTY UNTOUCHABLES is an award winning band guaranteed to please audiences of all taste with their extensive and diverse collection of material. Offering everything from Top 40 hits, Motown, Classic Rock, Jazz, Country, current Pop hits and more!

Grab your chairs, blankets and ice chest and come sing while watching THE MIGHTY UNTOUCHABLES perform LIVE at Gallup Park on Friday, August 27th at 7:00 pm!

Contributing sponsor

TENNIS CENTER

BALLERS NEEDING BALLERS

For those of you who might be new to the Tennis Center or just haven’t used your membership as much as you might like, we are creating a new way for you to match up with players of like ability skill levels.

Just call the front desk at (949) 831-6660 and ask the staff member to put you on the “Baller” list. We will ask for your name, email address and cell phone number to share with other Tennis Club members.

It is also very important to give them as accurate an evaluation of your level as possible. Please click on the following link to view or download a copy of the Tennis Skill Level Guidelines.
Tennis Skill Level Guidelines

This Week in Nellie Gail Ranch | August 13, 2021

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From the week ending on August 13, 2021

Summer Concert Series: Jumping Jack Flash

TONIGHT, August 13, 2021 at 7:00 PM @ Gallup Park

Jumping Jack Flash is a live retrospective presentation of 50 years of the Rolling Stones’ famous (and infamous!) career. Didn’t see The Stones in the 60’s from the front row? Here’s your second chance!

There will be no dance floor tonight in response to CDC recommendations for activities with close proximity gatherings

COME HUNGRY! We’ve got some yummy food trucks waiting for you.

Italian Burger & Grill

Offering hearty gourmet burgers (beef, chicken, veggie), grilled ribeye steak or grilled chicken plates, grilled vegetables, chicken Caesar salad, loaded fries, and more delicious choices. Let’s eat!
View the Menu

Tres Compas Mexican Grill

Serving up authentic and flavorful Mexican food: taco plates or a-la-carte (Carnitas, Fish, Steak, Chicken, Al Pastor or Veggie), burritos, tostada salad, quesadillas, meat fries, sopes, homemade corn tortillas, rice and beans. Don’t forget some warm, cream-filled churros for dessert!
View the Menu

Drizzle Funnel Cakes

Unique and delicious funnel cake shaped like a cone and filled to the brim with ice cream, fresh fruits, and other toppings. Or choose a cold coffee dessert, strawberry lemonade, or Thai tea float. Drizzle is all about details and quality.
View the Menu

Special thanks to contributing sponsor

HOME SECURITY

There has been an increase in residential burglaries in South Orange County. Please take extra precautions with your home and call the Sheriff’s Department if you see any suspicious activity or experience a break-in.

Emergency or Crime In Progress – Dial 9-1-1

Sheriff’s Non-Emergency Dispatch

(714) 647-7000 or (949) 770-6011

Below are some home safety tips to help keep your home protected.

Lights! Don’t give a burglar the cover of darkness around your home in which to work. Be sure the front of your home is well lit at night. The options for effective security lighting range from a simple porch light that you turn on before turning in at night, to dusk to dawn technology that activates at or around dusk, to motion activated spotlights. Do some research, find out what works best for your home and budget and get started!

Camera! Like lighting, there is a wide variety of security camera options available to protect your home. A do it yourself-er may prefer an option like Ring, widely available commercially, that provide an array of low cost, easy to install doorbell cameras for your front door and motion activated spotlight cameras for the perimeter areas of your yard. You can pick what you need, add and modify as needed, and their service plans are affordable and flexible based upon your needs. There are also countless professional security camera companies available who will do an assessment of your property and customize a security camera system that meets your needs and budget.

Action! Take some simple, common-sense steps to make your home less attractive to criminals. Be sure the entryways and windows of your home are not hidden by overgrown trees and bushes. Do not leave extension ladders in your yard providing easy access to the second-floor doors and windows of your home. Lock your doors and windows when you are not at home. Let your neighbors know if you are going to be away for an extended period of time. You can also request home checks by the Sheriff’s Department if you will be away on vacation.

Home security is everyone’s business. It is unreasonable to expect the police or private security to prevent all crime. Make your home less attractive to criminals and you will be less likely to become a victim of crime. Lights! Camera! Action! means safety and security for your home and loved ones!

Board Meeting Tuesday, August 17, 2021

at 7:30 PM via Zoom

Join us via Zoom on Tuesday, August 17 at 7:30 PM. View the Open Session Agenda below.
OPEN SESSION AGENDA

Zoom Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86401154406?pwd=RVpMSDVhM1IrdThnQmVQcjlzMXA2QT09

Dial in#: 669 900 6833

Meeting ID: 864 0115 4406

Passcode: 123749

This Week in Nellie Gail Ranch | August 6, 2021

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Nellie Gail Ranch Olympian: Anicka Delgado

Nellie Gail Ranch resident, Anicka Delgado, just returned from the Tokyo Olympics where she swam for Ecuador. Coached by her two-time Olympian father and owner of Evolution Racing Club, Felipe Delgado, Anicka swam in the Women’s 50m and 100m Freestyle. We are so proud of Anicka’s determination, dedication, and success!

More to come about Anicka’s Olympic journey next month in the September Issue of the Pony Express.

Special Board Meeting August 12, 2021 at 6 PM (Via Zoom)

A special budget workshop has been scheduled to review and adopt the 2021-22 budget and 2021-22 reserve study. The meeting will be held Thursday, August 12th at 6:00 PM via ZOOM (no in person meeting due to CDC guidance). An executive session meeting will also be held to review the staff budget and consider approval of a contractor for the restroom reserve project and bar/kitchen capital project.

OPEN SESSION AGENDA

Zoom Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88210456762?pwd=Nyt4NzJrdWRSQUhaVE5vQmVKZHZWUT09

Dial in# 669 900 6833

Meeting ID: 882 1045 6762

Passcode: 742634

Graffiti Vandalism

We had extensive vandalism this past weekend at the Gallup Park gazebo, the trail behind Gallup Park, a homeowner wall on Flintlock, and the city La Paz tunnel. It appears the tagging was done by the same individual(s). We have reported the vandalism to the sheriff and the city.

Our mobile patrol security vehicle is keeping a watch but we need the watchful attention of our homeowners too.

  • If you see anything currently in progress please call 9-1-1.
  • If you see anything suspicious, please report to sheriff dispatch at 949-770-6011.
  • The City of Laguna Hills has a Graffiti Hotline you can call at 949-707-2656.
  • You may also call the the Owner’s Association Office directly at 949-425-1477. Please call the sheriff first, then the Association Office in order that the sheriff can respond to direct homeowner calls.

Be sure to note the exact location of the graffiti.

Cleanup is the responsibility of the owner of whatever was tagged. The city takes care of the streets, curbs, and sidewalks, Nellie Gail Ranch takes care of trail fencing and signs and each homeowner is responsible for their own walls or other improvements. Again, please be watchful and report anything suspicious.

Summer Concert Series: Jumping Jack Flash

Next Friday, August 13, 2021 at 7:00 PM @ Gallup Park

Jumping Jack Flash is a live retrospective presentation of 50 years of the Rolling Stones’ famous (and infamous!) career. Didn’t see The Stones in the 60’s from the front row? Here’s your second chance!

Grab your chairs or blankets and ice chest and come sing and dance with us while watching JUMPING JACK FLASH perform LIVE at Gallup Park NEXT FRIDAY, August 13 at 7:00 PM!

COME HUNGRY! We’ve got some yummy food trucks waiting for you.

Special thanks to contributing sponsor:Tate|LaMott|Group

Learn More

This Week in Nellie Gail Ranch | 6/25/21

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Beers, Burgers & Bingo

Join your Nellie Gail Ranch neighbors and friends for a fun evening of Beers, Burgers & Bingo! The adult (21 and over) event will take place Friday, July 9, 2021, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the Association Clubhouse.

Limited tickets now available online at nelliegailranch.org/events.

$20 – Nellie Gail Ranch residents | $25 – Non-resident guest

Buy Tickets

Special Thanks to our contributing sponsor

New Tennis Benches

A total of 8 player seating area benches are currently being replaced near the entrances of tennis courts 3 through 12. The new benches are part of the on-going reserve projects being completed at the Tennis & Swim Center.

Landscape Committee Volunteer Opportunity

We are seeking volunteers to serve on the Landscape Committee. The Committee works to improve Nellie Gail Ranch for each of its residents through beautification of the community and preservation of its open space.

Goals of the Landscape Committee:

  • Develop recommendations to the HOA Board for projects/programs
  • Identify tree replacement and also new areas for planting
  • Inform the Community on project undertakings
  • Create long-term solutions for landscape development (i.e. drought resistant foliage)
  • Elevate the community aesthetics for the benefit of Nellie Gail Ranch residents

If you have an interest in serving on the Committee please complete the attached application and return to admin@nelliegailranch.org.

Landscape Committee Application

Hidden Trail Park: Playground Sub-Committee Volunteers Wanted!

We are considering replacement of the playground equipment at Hidden Trail Park and are seeking Mom’s or Dad’s who have an interest in helping select new equipment. Please e-mail admin@nelliegailranch.org if you have an interest in participating.

Nellie Gail Ranch “New” Operations Vehicle

Our Facilities Manager Jeff Hinkle is a car guy. And like many car guys, he grows an attachment to the vehicles he puts a lot of miles on. As they say, all good things must come to an end at some point, even beloved vehicles. Our Nellie Gail Ranch 2003 Nissan Frontier, with mostly hard off pavement trail miles, should be a familiar site to you. And so too would be Jeff who has been the primary driver of the 18 year old truck for all of his 12 years with Nellie Gail Ranch.

Like most of us, when a vehicle starts to require costly repairs we replace rather than continue to repair the vehicle. So this month we shopped around and found an excellent pre-owned low mileage 2019 Nissan Frontier. So while you may see a “new” truck on your trails, you will still have the same careful trail driver. And we wish them many productive miles together!

This Week in Nellie Gail Ranch | 6/18/21

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This Week in Nellie Gail Ranch

From the week ending on June 18, 2021

Board of Directors Organizational Meeting

The Board of Directors held their organizational meeting Tuesday evening to select officer positions as follows:

Mark Fisk | President

Joyce Taylor | Vice President

Alex Presley | Secretary

John Park | Co-Treasurer

Loree Blough | Co-Treasurer

Click the following link to review the June 9, 2021 Annual Meeting Inspector of Elections Report of balloting results including write-in candidates.

Inspector of Elections Report

License Plate Recognition Cameras and Camera Data Management Policy

The special ballot measure for license plate recognition cameras passed with 415 votes in favor of contracting for the service. At the Board Meeting of June 15, 2021, the Board approved moving forward with the Flock Safety contract for installation of cameras. The approximate time to go live with the system is August 15th. The $34.08 per homeowner annual expense will be incorporated into the 2021-22 budget commencing October 1, 2021. We will provide more updates as we get an installation schedule lined up.

The following Camera Data Management Policy provided to the homeowners with the Special Ballot Measure was also approved at the June 15, 2021 meeting. The policy explains how and to whom data collected will be disseminated.

License Plate Recognition Policy

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF PROPOSED EASEMENT PLANTING GUIDELINES

Nellie Gail Ranch Owners Association’s proposed Easement Planting Guidelines have been drafted to facilitate Architectural Review Committee review and approval of homeowner planting in equestrian easements. Current guidelines restrict homeowners from implementing landscape improvements within the easements on their property. These guidelines would allow for planting that would further enhance trail aesthetics and the hiking and riding experience.

The purpose of this notice is to offer Nellie Gail Ranch Members an opportunity to provide comments on the new guidelines and to propose changes as may be desired. In accordance with California Civil Code section 4360, which requires the Association to provide the Members with a minimum of twenty eight (28) days general notice of proposed rule changes.

The Board invites your comments on these proposed guidelines. Member input will be considered by the Board at its open session meeting set for Tuesday, July 20, 2021. The meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the Association Clubhouse.

Comments may be submitted via email to admin@nelliegailranch.org, may be delivered to the meeting, or may be mailed to 25211 Empty Saddle Drive, Laguna Hills, CA 92653.

Easement Planting Guidelines

Trails & Safety Committee Volunteer Opportunity

We are actively seeking volunteers to serve on the Trails & Safety Committee. With 25 miles of amazing trails we benefit from a volunteer network of active trail users. Volunteers meet as needed to recommend trail improvements and discuss ongoing maintenance. The committee is currently working to collaborate with the city to improve equestrian crossing safety. We would love to have someone who has a strong interest in this important issue. If you have an interest in serving on the Committee please complete the attached application and return to admin@nelliegailranch.org.

Trails Committee Application

Dapple Grey Arena and Round Pen Closure

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The Dapple Grey Arena and Round Pen will be closed for repairs starting Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at 7:00 am until 4:00 pm on Friday, May 28, 2021.  Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.  For any questions, please contact the Nellie Gail Ranch HOA office at 949-425-1477.

Equestrian Center Clubhouse Refresh Completed

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The Equestrian Center Clubhouse interior work has been completed with all new tile floor, fresh paint, a remodeled kitchen and all new restroom fixtures and partitions.  These reserve projects were funded by boarding and trainer fees to the benefit of the Nellie Gail Ranch Equestrian Center and all Nellie Gail Ranch homeowners.

Speed Enforcement on Nellie Gail Road

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Speed enforcement has been active this week on Nellie Gail Road in proximity to the Equestrian Center as patrol officers have been writing tickets for vehicles speeding up and down the hill.  We notify you of this not to suggest you look out for the patrol officers to avoid tickets, but to encourage you and all family members, to always drive safely at the posted speed limits on Nellie Gail Road and all streets within Nellie Gail.

Wine Tasting & Horse Show

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Attendees of the Wine Tasting & Horse Show last Saturday were treated to more than just great wine!  They also enjoyed the ambiance of the Nellie Gail Ranch Equestrian Center and an exhibition by some of our world class riders, trainers and horses.  Bree Kenney started things off with a James Bond themed musical freestyle on Dash. Grand Prix Dressage rider and USDF Gold Medalist Cassie Cherry Nolte followed with a patriotic themed freestyle performance on Whizzkid.  To close out the horse show, Grand Prix Jumper Lane Clarke put on a high jumping show on Queen who was flawless over impressive jump heights.  For many attending the wine tasting it was their first visit to the Equestrian Center and an opportunity to see just how special our Equestrian Community is.

Thank you to our contributing sponsor Brad Feldman Group.  Thank you also to Events Committee members Loree Blough, Alex Presley, Susan Phillips and Holly Permeh for planning this unique and fun event!!