The Gull's Call - Oct/Nov/Dec 2023

AssociationNews

GARDEN • Prune summer flowering shrubs (i.e., lavender, abelia, buddleia) and dormant maples. • Do not prune spring flowering trees (dogwood, magnolia, redbud, cherry, lilac and pear) as will remove buds setting to bloom in spring (prune right after blooming). • Weed right after the first rain as it's so easy and satisfying! • Reprogram lighting and irrigation timers—reduce to at least once a week. • Hire an arborist to trim trees from roof tops and remove dead/diseased limbs HOA REMINDER • If trees are removed (diseased or damaged), they must be replaced with another approved tree (not necessarily the same) somewhere on the property. This supports the collection of trees in our residential community and environmental benefits (filtering air, offering shade and reducing heat). Submit an HOA application for approval including cultivar name and size at maturity. • Check fences for loose boards and posts. In some cases, a fast-track architectural approval can be secured (esp. before winter storms). • Top dress soil around plants with recycled compost and refresh wood mulch. To match curb strips, request “Mahogany Wonder Mulch” at Vision Recycling, San Lorenzo: visionrecycling.com or call 510-429-1300. • Plant new shrubs and trees now so roots benefit from winter rains. Stop fertilizing established plants — wait until warmer spring weather. • Consider planting spring bulbs (daffodils, hyacinths, grape hyacinths) in Oct/Nov. • Clean and store outdoor cushions SAFETY • Keep all doors locked and garage doors closed; ensure alarms are working. • Set timed lights while travelling; ask neighbors to collect packages. • Check fire extinguishers and remind family members where they’re located. (Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher rated for all fire types A-B-C). • Ensure upper-floor bedroom windows have a rope ladder for emergency exits.

held every two months and what I learned from them was a knowledge of the rules and regulations we must follow and how best to deal with them plus please the home owners. It was a real experience and I am very glad I did it. Next year, in March, a new board will be chosen. The terms of three out of four members will be up and that means will really need people to step up. If no one does, we will have no board to service our community. Even now there should be five members to prevent a tie vote. So, I am encouraging you to submit your candidate letter for the next election. We really need your help and input. Another Labor Day has come and gone. Soon the holidays will be here and 2023 will draw to a close. I hope the year brought you joy, happiness and comfort and wish you all a very happy new year. Headlands by Marla Lee F ALL IS MY FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR, WITH GREAT seaside weather, glorious sunsets, and anticipation of the holidays. Though the to-do list seems longer this time of year, we do what we can and tackle the rest in • Have heating system inspected by a professional (sounds like it’s working too hard or making unusual sounds). Clean vents and filters, fireplaces, and flues. • Test/replace batteries in smoke alarms/carbon monoxide detectors. • Vacuum dryer vents (inside and outside). • Decalcify and start the humidifier to protect skin, sinuses and house wood. • Check water heater rods, flush to remove accumulated sediment. • Check window caulk and weather stripping, clean tracks and lubricate with dry silicone spray. (As an original homeowner, I’m reminded we’re eligible for full replacement for damaged windows, sliding doors, seals and more. Contact Milgard directly for details and eligibility.) • Clean rain-gutters, test downspouts and drains to ensure they flow freely to street outlets spring: HOME

32 October | November | December 2023

The Gull’s Call