Hampshire at Park West

Happy New Year

2011-12-30T08:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowners,

Can you believe that 2012 is almost here? It has been an exciting year and I hope that each of you have a very Happy New Year. I would like to ask that each of you remember that fireworks can be a hazard to your community, neighbors, and are not legal in all counties. If you do use fireworks, please be sure to pick up all the remains and keep them away from your neighbors or their homes.

Also, please remember that assessment payments are due on the first of the month. If you have not set up automatic payments, this year may be the time to consider that. This allows you to assure that your payments are always made on time to avoid any late fees. You may do this at www.cmgcharleston.com.

Again, I hope that each of you have a Happy New Year and a safe holiday!

Respectfully,

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Happy Holidays

2011-12-15T08:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowners,

I have recently met with your board and our horticulturist to go over the landscaping at Hampshire. We have made note of all concerns and had the landscaper meet us on property recently to assist in the resolution of these issues. Some of the trees or replanting of bushes cannot be done at this time, and will be taken care of in the Spring. We will also be planting some new trees to replace trees that were removed some time back per the Mount Pleasant regulations.

As your manager, I would like to tell you how I have enjoyed working with your community and have enjoyed meeting a few of you. I hope to meet all of you in the near future and would like to know if you have any concerns. I assure you that all concerns will all be brought to your board for consideration.

Happy Holidays and I look forward to a New Year.

Respectfully,

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Protect your Home

2011-11-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

Hi Homeowners,

We would like to remind each of you that this time of year we have been alerted of a higher rate of theft and some concerns in the Charleston area. Please be sure to lock up your homes at all times to protect your home and family, even when you are home. We have also been warned that many intruders will pose as a solicitor to find out if a home is empty. Instead of ignoring a “stranger” at your door, please be sure to call out to them and say you are not interested. This will cause the intruder to leave the premises. If you see any suspicious behavior, please call your local police immediately.

Happy Holidays,

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Annual meeting Change

2011-11-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Home Owners:

The Annual Meeting will be held Thursday, November 3^rd at 6 pm at 2001 Grey Marsh Rd. Please enter through the side door by the driveway. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Respectfully,

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Association Fee Payments

2011-10-16T16:36:00.000-07:00

When making payments of your association fees by check, please make sure you make your check payable to your association and not CMG. Your mailing envelope should have the following:

Association Name
PO Box 912
Columbia, SC 29202

Mailing your fee to CMG may only make you payment late and additional fees may be added. Please remember that you should mail your payments a week prior to their due date to avoid mail or processing delays. To assure that your payments are on time, you can set up an automatic payment online on our website at www.cmgcharleston.com.

Respectfully,

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Upcoming Annual Meeting

2011-10-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

I would like to remind the home owner’s of Hampshire that we will have our Annual Meeting for Hampshire on Thursday, November 3^rd at 6:00 pm. We will send an update of the location. Look forward to meeting everyone at the meeting!

Respectfully,

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Association Fees

2011-09-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

When making payments of your association fees by check, please make sure you make your check payable to your association and not CMG. Your mailing envelope should have the following:

Association Name
PO Box 912
Columbia, SC 29202

Mailing your fee to CMG may only make you payment late and additional fees may be added. If you are interested in making your payments online, please visit www.cmgcharleston.com.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your account, please call me at 843-795-8484 ext. 321

Thank you,

Lyssa Ross Watson

Mosquito Abatement

2011-08-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

With the recent rainfall and weather in Charleston, some of you may have noticed some issues with mosquitoes. For more information on Mosquito abatement, please contact Charleston County Mosquito Control 843-202-7880.

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Hurricane Season Information

2011-08-03T05:49:00.000-07:00

The hurricane season is in full swing, so be sure to visit our website page www.CMGCharleston.com/storms.htm for information about storm preparation.

Lyssa Ross Watson
Community Manager

Hurricane Season

2011-07-28T07:42:00.001-07:00

We are in the midst of Hurricane Season. Please make sure you take a few minutes to review plans for evacuation if required. You can visit your website to find helpful hints in order to be prepared in case we have a storm. A few quick suggestions are -
1. Make sure you have immediate access to your insurance policy and your agent's contact information.
2. Make sure you have current photos of the interior of your unit.
3. Make sure you have up-to-date contact information in case of an emergency.
4. Secure your valuables.
5. Share your plans with family or a close friend.
6. Have a list of important numbers you would need in case of an emergency.
7. Make appropriate plans for your pets.

We all certainly hope we don't have a major storm but it's always best to be prepared. If we do have any type of emergency, we will have updates posted on the main number for the clubhouse. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions at all and plan to stay safe!

Lock it or Lose it!

2011-07-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

The Mount Pleasant Police Department has implemented a lock it or lose it campaign for your area in an effort to reduce crimes of opportunity. We have seen an increase in vehicle break-ins and open garage burglaries in the recent weeks and we are requesting our residence assistance us in reducing crimes of opportunity. Our agency has and will continue to patrol these neighborhoods and look for residences that are possible targets. The officers have been instructed to contact the residence and educate them of the potential crimes issue. We are asking that all residents within these communities remove valuables from their vehicle and lock their vehicle. We have determined that most vehicle break-ins are unsecured vehicles. The Mount Pleasant Police Department is also requesting that residence close garage doors when not in use, because recent burglaries have indicated most garage doors were left open and became easy targets for criminals.

In closing, thank you for your corporation in this matter and if I can be of any further assistance feel free to contact me via E-mail at quick@townofmountpleasant.com, or call me at 843-884-4176

Lieutenant Donald Quick

Mount Pleasant Police Department

100 Ann Edwards Lane

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Thank you,

Lyssa Ross

Updates

2011-05-26T06:09:00.000-07:00

Pressure washing for 2011 at Hampshire at Park West has been completed. Hampshire is looking so good!!!!

We are investigating a new company to monitor the fire system at a significant cost savings. Further info will follow.

Update

2011-05-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

Pressure washing will occur on May 25th. All homeowners will be notified by mail. Please follow the instructions.

The new landscaping looks absolutely beautiful.

Pressure washing

2011-04-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

We will notify all owners when the pressure washing is scheduled.

We are fixing the electric line for lights and fountain.

Board Meeting

2011-04-14T05:50:00.000-07:00

The Hampshire at Park West H.O.A. will be having their Board meeting on April 27, 2011. After that meeting I will be able to report the outcome.

Three dead trees have been scheduled for removal in approximately two weeks.

New Landscaping and Pine straw

2011-04-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

You will notice this week the addition of new pine straw and the new entrance plantings. We hope you will enjoy thise new and improved look for your community. This will only help property values in Hampshire at Park West.

Yards Art who is pour new landscape company has reviewed the irrigation system and they will be responsible for the timing and its operation.

Gearing up for Spring

2011-03-21T13:23:00.000-07:00

The Board has approved the new landscaping for both entrances. The irrigation should be turned on any day now. Additionally, we are close to removing the dead trees as well.

Various Items

2011-03-09T08:19:00.000-08:00

This years pressure washing will be done using the same contractor as last year Rea's Landscaping. Everyone seemed to be happy with the company. We will notify you when the work will be done along with any instructions.

We are set to start up the irrigation system and first application of pine straw is being scheduled.

Update on Landscaping

2011-02-25T12:25:00.000-08:00

We are also looking and obtaining pricing for removal of the existing dead trees. If everyone is patient your entrance is going to look so beautiful.

Landscaping plans

2011-02-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

We have received plans for new landscaping to be accomplished at Hampshire. These plans are being turned over to the Board and Landscape Committee for review and approval. I beleive this will go a long way in adhancing the appearance of Hampshire at Park West.

Welcome to your Blog

2011-02-04T06:35:00.001-08:00

As you maybe already aware a few days ago I sent out an email to all regarding your blog. If you are reading this you found it and I hope you will join. Its a great way to communicate current activities of your community.

A few updates on items:

... Replacement planting - we are obtaining pricing to revamp the landscaping and replacements of plant material. Additionally, pricing to remove any dead tress. Next week our new landscaper Yard Art will be providing a computer generated rendering of what it will look like. This rendering will be turned over to the Board and the landscape committee for final approval. Then the work can be scheduled.

... I have sent letters out regarding the visitor parking areas on each side of the complex. We ask that you keep these areas clear for visitor parking only.

... Please pickup after your dog. It makes Hampshire a better place to live.

Landscaping/ edging and other items

2011-01-28T07:58:00.000-08:00

As you mayhave already observed, all of the edging in the fronts of the units have been removed. The edging was there from the time the developer built the units and was certainly an accident waiting to happen. It looks much better now.

We here at CMG are compiling lists of landscaping for Hampshire at Park West, which also includes sod, plant replacements and dead tree removal. We should have pricing on these for Board approval by next week.

Finally, this week I sent letters to all owners regarding the pet policy of Hampshire. We ask all residents to be mindful of the policy and have consideration for your neighbors. Lets all keep Hampshire at Park West beautiful.

Landscaping at Hampshire

2011-01-14T07:15:00.000-08:00

As you all may be aware the Board has approved a new landscape maintenance contractor for 2011. Yard Art is a very good company and I know you will like their work on the property this year.

We are in the process of creating a plant replacement list for Hampshire. With the help of Yard Art amd Michael Ferrazzano CMG's in-house landscape Guru, i know all will benefit from thoer expertize.

2011 at Hampshire at Park West

2011-01-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Homeowners:

By now you received the fee for 2011 and realize there has been an increase. The Board worked very hard to keep the fee stabilized but the expenses were there to justify the increase. We do feel confident that with this increase the fee can stabilized in future years. The Board of Directors bid out for services and in 2011 there will be a new Landscape contractor for Hampshire. I know you will see a big difference in the appearance of the property. In 2010 we tried to address most of the issues such as lighting, sump pump and tree replacement. Although we made a huge dent in those issues in 2010 there is still more to be accomplished and will.

We look forward to serving you in 2011.

The New Year

2010-12-20T07:30:00.001-08:00

Dear Homeowners:

Now that the budget for 2011 has been approved I look forward to the new year ahead. I know that the Board has talen steps to insure a successful operation in 2011. The Board made sure that the budget is adequately funded for all services.

I want to wish all residents a Happy Holiday and a safe and healthy New Year.

Association Fee Payments

2010-12-03T11:50:00.000-08:00

Ongoing Items

2010-11-22T09:12:00.001-08:00

We have scheduled a few items that have been discussed and will be accomplished before years end:

1. New Sump Pump.

2. Crepe Myrtles installation.

3. Replacement of dead plant material.

4. Entrance lights.

Beyond Lawn Care

2010-11-08T10:59:00.000-08:00

Wooded areas, meadows, streams, and ponds are features that add value to our community. We’re fortunate to have some of these features because they enhance property values, increase aesthetic appeal, improve our environmental quality, eliminate noise and wind, and reduce our energy bills.
The responsibility to maintain our natural areas goes beyond the capabilities of our lawn care provider, so it’s up to us to properly maintain all our common ground—-landscaped and natural.
That’s why the association pays attention to water resources and quality, wildlife habitats, and species diversity. We believe that proper maintenance and management will benefit the local ecosystems and save the association money.
Remember, environmental stewardship begins at the community level.
[Optional: Source: Community Associations Institute.]

Hampshire at Park West H.O.A. Annual Meeting

2010-11-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

HAMPSHIRE AT PARK WEST
HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC.
ANNUAL MEMBER’S MEETING
OCTBOER 26, 2010
I. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Board President Jay Luka at 6:35pm.
Several homeowners were in attendance. Sam Gogliuzza represented Community Management Group.
II. PROOF OF MAILING AND ESTABLISH QUORUM
Proof of meeting notice and establishment of quorum was verified by Sam Gogliuzza
III. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION OF BOARD AND MANAGEMENT
Sam Gogliuzza introduced the Board members present, Jay Luca and Beverly Thatcher. David Wright was absent. Sam Gogliuzza gave a brief background of himself.
IV. OLD BUSINESS
Sam Gogliuzza discussed the following:
Information regarding Association insurance, pressure washing project, pine straw
entrance lighting, removal of dead Palmetto’s and replacing with Crepe Myrtles,
landscape contract and drainage.
VII. NEW BUSINESS
A. Board Elections
Three positions were available for the Board of Directors. Three nominations were made from the floor. The candidates for the open positions are Jay Luka, Ken Hutchesen, and Beverly Thacker
MOTION Jay Luca made a motion to approve nominations for the Board of Directors
SECOND all other owners present
All Were Favor
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
Questions were asked from the homeowners regarding drainage. Sam read an
email from Hillary Repik, Storm Water Manager from Mt. Pleasant, who
reviewed the situation indicting that the sump pumps were either the HOA’s or
developer responsibility. Sam stated he will get the sump pumps fixed or replaced
and have the drains cleaned. He reminded the homeowners that cost will be borne
by the 10 homeowners.
Questions were asked about the entrance lighting, parking guest passes, weeds in
beds, dead tree removal, Tennyson flowers, pruning and plant replacement.
Sam Gogliuzza went into great detail regarding projects the above issues and
monies available to accomplish these items. Sam stated that thanks to the Board’s
approval to file a lien and Small Claims Court Judgment on the one delinquent
owner and that fee repayment is starting to happen.
IX. ADJOURN
MOTION by: Jay Luca to adjourn the annual member’s meeting.
SECOND Beverly Thacker
All in Favor
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 pm.
___________________________ _____________________________
Jay Luka, President Recording Secretary
Date: _____________________

Day Light Savings Time

2010-10-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Please be aware that clocks must be turned back by 1 hour on Sunday, November 7, 2010

During his time as an American envoy to France, Benjamin Franklin, author of the proverb, "Early to bed, and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise", anonymously published a letter suggesting that Parisians economize on candles by rising earlier to use morning sunlight.[16] This 1784 satire proposed taxing shutters, rationing candles, and waking the public by ringing church bells and firing cannons at sunrise.[17] Franklin did not propose DST; like ancient Rome, 18th-century Europe did not keep precise schedules. However, this soon changed as rail and communication networks came to require a standardization of time unknown in Franklin's day.

Pine Straw

2010-10-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

Recently, the aasociations comtractor installed the new fall mulch at the direction of the Board, It looks great and really enhances the property. You property is beautiful.

Various Items

2010-09-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

We are replacing three Crepe Myrtles and pine straw will be placed in approx. one week. Additionally, we are working on getting the lights fixed and hopefully will be working shortly.

We are also looking into the water problem there and a way to rectify it.

Budget Input

2010-09-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

Please if you get a chance let us know what would be something yu would like to see included in the budget in 2011. All that could be thought of might not accomplishedin one year due to budget constriants but will give us information as to what is important to you.

Tree Replacements/ Entrance Lighting

2010-08-31T05:51:00.000-07:00

As you are aware we have recently removed some dead trees. We will be replacing the trees in the Fall. Thankyou for your patience.

We are looking into fixing the entrance lighting. We have All Phase Electric looking to see if any underground conduit was installed prior to rewiring.

Projects

2010-08-17T06:13:00.000-07:00

Some of the dead landscape material has been removed. We are planning replacements this fall. If any residents have any concerns please contact me at 843-795-8484 Ext. 315.

We are working on getting the entrance lights working.

Clean Your Air Conditioner Drain

2010-08-03T12:20:00.000-07:00

Clean Your Air Conditioner Drain Before it Leaks!

Air Conditioning Units produce one natural by product, Water! The method that this water is produced is just like the water that forms on the outside of a glass with ice in it. The warmer air from your home, meets the colder surface of the evaporator coil and naturally, condensation occurs. The bad part happens when you find the air conditioner drain line clogged and a water leak on the floor!

The water that comes from your AC Unit, runs down the sides of the coil and collects inside the condensate pan, eventually reaching the condensate drain and flowing off to the drain method your installer chose. When the condensation drain becomes gummed up or plugged, that same innocent water can back up and leak, and can literally ruin your life!

Cleaning Your AC Condensate Pan and Drain Line
Face it, if you are not going to have a service company come out and service your air conditioner every season, you are going to need to do a few things on your own. Fortunately, you can do this before an AC Water Leak happens!

According to the Tampa Handyman, one method he uses is to just grab his wet/dry vacuum, and use it to draw all the build up from your drain line, from the outside of the home, where it exits! While this will work for some, there are a few other methods to clean your AC Condensate Drain as well.

Gravity or Pumped AC Condensate Drains
In almost every instance, you will have either:

Gravity Condensate Drain, where the water flows from your evaporator coil drain pan, directly into a small PVC drain line, and either into a drain system, in or outside your home.

As you can see in the top picture, the installer of this condensate line took the time to install a few extra pieces of the PVC drain, to facilitate the cleaning of the drain lines. Yours may or may not have these caps in place, but if you end up having to cut into the piping system to clean it, (common on older systems) you can rebuild it with the cleanouts in place! All pieces for the new drain can be picked up at a hardware store, for less than $10, or by clicking the links below.

Condensate Pump Drain System, where the water from your coil pan is piped into a small condensate pump, that automatically turns itself on and off as the water fills the collection tray.

In most cases, the PVC piping or clear plastic condensate hose, will fit directly into a hole on the top of the condensate pump, filling the reservoir. A second hose is then connected, to channel the water outside the home or into a drain system. Condensate pump systems are most commonly used in areas below the level of the homes drain.

Air Conditioner Condensate Pumps
Regardless of which system your AC system uses, almost all blockages occur in the small bend, called a trap. The trap system always holds a small amount of water, that is there to keep fumes and other objects from backing in to the system. Over time, gum builds up... the trap becomes clogged and you have a plugged ac line!

Cleaning Your AC Condensate Drain
The most common method of cleaning, is to gain access to your drain line... whether that is within a cleanout or from inside the evaporator coil drain pan, and simply flush the line with either compressed air or a water hose, forcing everything from the inside to outside. (Never flush water from outside the home, to the inside of the unit, a mess will occur!)

If you don't have access to an open end of the drain from inside, you may need to disconnect or cut the drain line to perform the cleaning.

This should be done at least once every year and more often in areas where you use air conditioning more than 6 months of the year! Doing so will prevent the AC drain from leaking water into the home!

cleaning air conditioner drain, central air conditioner leaking water, drain water from window air conditioner, condensation in ac drain pan, condensate drain cleaning, AC condensate drain line, clogged ac drain line, cleaning airconditioner condenser tray, clean out air conditioner drains, home ac leaking water

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Board Meeting

2010-08-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

HAMPSHIRE AT PARK WEST
HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
MINUTES
JULY 27, 2010
I. Call to Order:
The meeting was called to order by Jay Luca at 6:30PM. Members present were Jay Luca, David Wright, and Beverly Thacker. Sam Gogliuzza represented CMG as the Association Manager.
II. Review and approval of last meeting:
Sam will send to the Board.
III. Financial Report:
The Board and Association Manager review the Financial Report as of June 30, 2010. Copies of the financial report were distributed to the Board. The manager reported that a credit from Hedge Hunters Landscaping will be given to the Association in the amount of $1,134.00. The Association will take the credit by way of almost three months of no charge for landscape maintenance From Hedge Hunters Landscaping.
IV. Old Business:
A. Review of Outstanding Issues:
Entrance Lights – Sam will have All Phase review the other two entrance lights and ascertain what the problem is. Once that is accomplished and the price is known the Board will make a decision. All Phase found conduit for the one set of lights and look to see if the other set has conduit before proceeding.
Sump Pump- On hold.
Delinquent Homeowner – A lien has been filed and now the HOA is filing for a judgment in Small Claims Court.
Hampshire Insurance- The manager reported that we had bid to
various carriers and could not reduce the cost of premium. However,
the renewal indicates that there was a very small savings with the
current carrier.
Pressure Washing- Project was completed.
Removal of dead Palmettos- the Board will have Hedge Hunters
remove the four (4) Palmettos for $400.00 now and fill with dirt. In
the fall they will be replaced with four (4) Crepe Myrtles for $450.00.
Standing Water- The manager will investigate.
B. Review of Power Washing – The manager reported that the Pike’s
had complained of damage to their unit with the paint. Rea’s agreed
to have any damage repainted.
C. Status of Delinquent Accounts- See outstanding issues.
V. New Business:
A. Budget 2011 – The manager will bid out landscaping as part of the
budget process to obtain hard costs.
B. Other: The manager will send an email to all owners to direct them
to the Hampshire Blog. The manager will continually update the blog
for better communication with the homeowners.
VI. Adjournment:
There being no further business to discuss the meeting was adjourned at
8:15PM.
__________________ _________________
President Recording Secretary
_________________
Date:

Hampshire at Park West Issues

2010-07-21T05:25:00.000-07:00

After taking over as manager at Hampshire there are various issues important to the Board and homeowners. I am and will address every one of them. If you have a particular issue please contact me, I would be happy to try to resolve it for you. We are also currently obtaining prices for removal and repalcement of trees that have died.

Hampshire at Park West News

2010-07-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

Recently, The Board had the units at Hampshire at Park West power washed. There was a case with one of the unit owners who had some damage done to the paint. I contacted the owner as well as the contractor involved and after some discussion and onsite inspections it appears that the unit owner will be made whole.

Here at Community Management Group we obtain bidding from only the most reputable contractors. This is a prime example why we and the Board's and homeowners we work for do.

New Manager at Hampshire

2010-06-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

I wanted to introduce myself, my name is Sam Gogliuzza and I work for Community Management Group. I have taken over the management of Hampshire at Park West. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions or concerns. You can reach me at 843-795-8484 ext. 315.

Also, please visit Community Management Groups weebsite at www.cmgcharleston.com. There you will find useful information about your association and other information that will be helpful.

Hurricanes!!! Are you ready?

2010-06-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
ARE YOU READY? 33
Hurricanes maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64
knots) or higher.
All Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastal
areas are subject to hurricanes or tropical
storms. Although rarely struck by
hurricanes, parts of the Southwest United
States and the Pacific Coast experience
heavy rains and floods each year from
hurricanes spawned off Mexico. The
Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June
to November with the peak season from
mid-August to late October.
Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage
to coastlines and several hundred
miles inland. Winds can exceed 155
miles-per-hour. Hurricanes and tropical
storms can also spawn tornadoes and
microbursts, create surge along the coast,
and cause extensive damage due to inland
flooding from trapped water.
Tornadoes most often occur in thunderstorms
embedded in rain bands well away
from the center of the hurricane; however,
they also occur near the eye-wall. Typically,
tornadoes produced by tropical cyclones
are relatively weak and short-lived
but still pose a threat.
A storm surge is a huge dome of water
pushed on-shore by hurricane and tropical
storm winds. Storm surges can reach 25
feet high and be 50-100 miles wide. Storm
tide is a combination of the storm surge
and the normal tide (i.e., a 15 foot storm
surge combined with a 2 foot normal high
tide over the mean sea level creates a 17
foot storm tide). These phenomena cause
severe erosion and extensive damage to
coastal areas.
Despite improved warnings and a decrease
in the loss of life, property damage continues
to rise because an increasing number
of people are living or vacationing near
coastlines. Those in hurricane-prone
areas need to be prepared for hurricanes
and tropical storms.
A hurricane is a type of tropical
cyclone, the generic term for a low
pressure system that generally
forms in the tropics. The ingredients for a
hurricane include a pre-existing weather
disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture,
and relatively light winds aloft. A
typical cyclone is accompanied by thunderstorms,
and in the Northern Hemisphere,
a counterclockwise circulation of
winds near the earth’s surface. Tropical
cyclones are classified as follows:
Tropical Depression. An organized
system of clouds and thunderstorms
with a defined surface circulation and
maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33
knots) or less. Sustained winds are defined
as one-minute average wind measured at
about 33 ft (10 meters) above the surface.
Tropical Storm. An organized system
of strong thunderstorms with a defined
surface circulation and maximum sustained
winds of 39-73 mph (34-63 knots).
Hurricane. An intense tropical weather
system of strong thunderstorms with
a well-defined surface circulation and
34 ARE YOU READY?
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY Hurricanes are classified into five categories
based on their wind speed, central
pressure and damage potential (see chart
below). Category Three and higher are considered
major hurricanes, though Category
One and Two are still extremely dangerous
and warrant your full attention.
Inland/freshwater flooding
from hurricanes
Hurricanes can produce widespread torrential
rains. Floods are the deadly and
destructive result. Excessive rain can also
trigger landslides or mud slides, especially
in mountainous regions. Flash flooding
can occur due to the intense rainfall.
Flooding on rivers and streams may persist
for several days or more after the storm.
The speed of the storm and the geography
beneath the storm are the primary factors
regarding the amount of rain produced.
Slow moving storms and tropical storms
moving into mountainous regions tend to
produce more rain.
Between 1970 and 1999, more people lost
their lives from freshwater flooding associated
with landfalling tropical cyclones
than from any other weather hazard related
to tropical cyclones.
See the “Floods” chapter for more specific
information on flood related emergencies.
What to do before
a hurricane
1. Know the difference between “Watches”
and “Warnings.”
• Hurricane/Tropical Storm Watch—
Hurricane/tropical storm conditions
are possible in the specified area,
usually within 36 hours.
• Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning—
Hurricane/tropical storm conditions
are expected in the specified
area, usually within 24 hours.
• Short Term Watches and Warnings—
These warnings provide detailed information
on specific hurricane threats,
such as flash floods and tornadoes.
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale
Scale Number Sustained Winds Damage Storm
(Category) (MPH) Surge
1 74-95 Minimal: Untied mobile homes,
vegetation and signs. 4-5 feet
2 96-110 Moderate: All mobile homes, roofs,
small crafts, flooding. 6-8 feet
3 111-130 Extensive: Small buildings, low-lying
roads cut off. 9-12 feet
4 131-155 Extreme: Roofs destroyed, trees
down, roads cut off, mobile homes
destroyed. Beach homes flooded. 13-18 feet
5 >155 Catastrophic: Most buildings
destroyed. Vegetation destroyed.
Major roads cut off. Homes flooded. >18 feet
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
ARE YOU READY? 35
2. Listen for local radio or television
weather forecasts. Purchase a NOAA
Weather Radio with battery backup
and a tone-alert feature that automatically
alerts you when a Watch or Warning
is issued (tone alert is not available
in some areas). Purchase a batterypowered
commercial radio and extra
batteries as well because information
on other events will be broadcast by
the media.
3. Ask your local emergency management
office about community evacuation
plans relating to your
neighborhood. Learn
evacuation routes. Determine
where you would
go and how you would
get there if you needed
to evacuate. Sometimes
alternate routes are desirable.
4. Talk to your household
about hurricane issues.
Create a household disaster
plan. Plan to meet at
a place away from your
residence in case you
are separated. Choose an out-of-town
contact for everyone to call to say they
are safe.
5. Determine the needs of your household
members who may live elsewhere
but need your help in a hurricane.
Consider the special needs of neighbors,
such as people that are disabled
or those with limited sight or vision
problems.
6. Prepare to survive on your own for at
least three days. Assemble a disaster
supply kit. Keep a stock of food and
extra drinking water. See the “Emergency
Planning and Disaster Supplies”
and “Evacuation” chapters for more
information.
7. Make plans to secure your property.
Permanent storm shutters offer the
best protection for windows. A second
option is to board up windows with
5/8" marine plywood, cut to fit and
ready to install. Tape does not prevent
windows from breaking.
8. Learn how to shut off utilities and
where gas pilots and water mains are
located.
9. Have your home inspected
for compliance with local
building codes. Many of the
roofs destroyed by hurricanes
were not constructed or retrofitted
according to building
codes. Installing straps or
additional clips to securely
fasten your roof to the frame
structure will substantially
reduce roof damage.
10. Be sure trees and shrubs
around your home are well
trimmed. Dead limbs or trees could
cause personal injury or property
damage. Clear loose and clogged rain
gutters and downspouts.
11. If you have a boat, determine where to
secure it in an emergency.
12. Consider flood insurance. Purchase
insurance well in advance—there is
a 30-day waiting period before flood
insurance takes effect.
13. Make a record of your personal property.
Take photographs or videotapes
of your belongings. Store these documents
in a safe place.
Create a
household
disaster plan.
Plan to meet your
family in case you
are separated.
Choose an out-oftown
contact for
everyone to call to
say they are safe.
36 ARE YOU READY?
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY What to do during a
hurricane threat
1. Listen to radio or television newscasts.
If a hurricane “Watch” is issued, you
typically have 24 to 36 hours before
the hurricane hits land.
2. Talk with household members. Make
sure everyone knows where to meet
and who to call, in case you are separated.
Consider the needs of relatives
and neighbors with special needs.
3. Secure your home. Close
storm shutters. Secure
outdoor objects or bring
them indoors. Moor your
boat if time permits.
4. Gather several days’ supply
of water and food for
each household member.
Water systems may
become contaminated or
damaged. Sterilize (with
diluted bleach solution
of one part bleach to ten
parts water) and fill the
bathtub to ensure a supply of safe
water in case you are unable or told
not to evacuate. Refer to the “Shelter
and Emergency Planning” and “Disaster
Supplies” chapters for important
information.
5. If you are evacuating, take your disaster
supply kit with you to the shelter.
Remember that alcoholic beverages
and weapons are prohibited within
shelters. Also, pets are not allowed in
a public shelter due to health reasons.
See the “Animals in Disaster” chapter
and contact your local humane society
for additional information.
6. Prepare to evacuate. Fuel your car—
service stations may be closed after the
storm. If you do not have a car, make
arrangements for transportation with
a friend or relative. Review evacuation
routes. If instructed, turn off utilities
at the main valves.
7. Evacuate to an inland location, if:
• Local authorities announce an evacuation
and you live in an evacuation
zone.
• You live in a mobile home or temporary
structure—they are particularly
hazardous during hurricanes
no matter how well fastened
to the ground.
• You live in a high-rise. Hurricane
winds are stronger at
higher elevations.
• You live on the coast, on
a floodplain near a river or
inland waterway.
• You feel you are in danger.
8. When authorities order an
evacuation:
• Leave immediately.
• Follow evacuation routes
announced by local officials.
• Stay away from coastal areas, riverbanks
and streams.
• Tell others where you are going.
9. If you are not required or are unable
to evacuate, stay indoors during the
hurricane and away from windows and
glass doors. Keep curtains and blinds
closed. Do not be fooled if there is a
lull, it could be the eye of the storm—
winds will pick up again.
• Turn off utilities if told to do so by
authorities.
• If not instructed to turn off, turn the
refrigerator to its coldest setting and
keep closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
Alcoholic
beverages and
weapons are
prohibited within
shelters. Also,
pets are not
allowed in public
shelters for
health reasons.
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
ARE YOU READY? 37
10. In strong winds, follow these rules:
• Take refuge in a small interior room,
closet or hallway.
• Close all interior doors. Secure and
brace external doors.
• In a two-story residence, go to an
interior first-floor room, such as a
bathroom or closet.
• In a multiple-story building, go to
the first or second floors and stay in
interior rooms away from windows.
• Lie on the floor under a table or another
sturdy object.
11. Avoid using the phone
except for serious emergencies.
Local authorities
need first priority on telephone
lines.
12. See the “Evacuation” chapter
for important information.
What to do after
a hurricane
1. Stay where you are if you
are in a safe location until local authorities
say it is safe to leave. If you
evacuated the community, do not
return to the area until authorities say
it is safe to return.
2. Keep tuned to local radio or television
stations for information about caring
for your household, where to find
medical help, how to apply for financial
assistance, etc.
3. Drive only when necessary. Streets
will be filled with debris. Roads may
have weakened and could collapse.
Do not drive on flooded or barricaded
roads or bridges. Closed roads are for
your protection. As little as six inches
of water may cause you to lose control
of your vehicle—two feet of water will
carry most cars away.
4. Do not drink or prepare food with tap
water until notified by officials that it is
safe to do so.
5. Consider your family’s health and safety
needs. Be aware of symptoms of stress
and fatigue. Keep your household together
and seek crisis counseling if you
have need. See the “Mental Health and
Crisis Counseling” section of the “Recovering
from Disaster” chapter for more
information.
6. Talk with your children
about what has happened and
how they can help during the
recovery. Being involved will
help them deal with the situation.
Consider the needs of
your neighbors. People often
become isolated during hurricanes.
7. Stay away from disaster
areas unless local authorities
request volunteers. If you are
needed, bring your own drinking
water, food and sleeping gear.
8. Stay away from riverbanks and streams
until potential flooding has passed. Do
not allow children, especially under
the age of 13, to play in flooded areas.
There is a high risk of injury or drowning
in areas that may appear safe.
9. Stay away from moving water. Moving
water only six inches deep can sweep
you off your feet. Standing water may
be electrically charged from underground
or downed power lines.
10. Stay away from downed power lines
and report them to the power company.
Report broken gas, sewer or water
mains to local officials.
Consider your
household’s
health and
safety needs
and be aware
of symptoms
of stress and
fatigue. Seek
crisis counseling
if you have need.
38 ARE YOU READY?
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY 11. Don't use candles or other open flames
indoors. Use a flashlight to inspect
damage.
12. Set up a manageable schedule to repair
property.
13. Contact your insurance agent. An
adjuster will be assigned to visit your
home. To prepare:
• Take photos of your belongings and
your home or videotape them.
• Separate damaged and undamaged
belongings.
• Locate your financial records.
• Keep detailed records of cleanup
costs.
14. Consider building a “Safe Room or
Shelter” to protect your household. See
the “Thunderstorms” chapter for additional
information in the “Tornadoes”
section.
15. See the “Recovering From Disaster”
chapter for more important information.

Landscaping Changes/Annual Pressure Washing

2010-05-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

On April 21, 2010, the Board of Directors held their Quarterly Board Meeting. During this meeting, there were several issues that were brought up and discussed in length. The landscaping at the front entrances has been a topic of discussion for quite some time. After much research and discussion, the Board has decided to request a one time donation to the Association of $50.00 from each homeowner. This money will be added to the $500.00 currently budgeted for annual landscape plantings to include flowers, shrubs, and pine straw to go around the pond. This additional amount is necessary in order to maintain a proper appearance of our front entrances that will be in keeping with the rest of the entrances within the Park West Community. We will also be using a portion of this money to pine straw the pond banks. This is necessary in order to alleviate the amount of weeds that will certainly take over if ground cover is not put in place. It is imperative that this planting be done as quickly as possible, as the hotter it gets, the more difficult it will be to maintain the new plantings. If each homeowner could make a check for $50.00 made payable to Beverly Thacker, we will then combine all checks and make a money order made payable to the Association. All checks can be dropped off to Beverly Thacker at 2005 Grey Marsh Rd. (Please make sure checks are in an envelope with your address included). Although it is not required, we would appreciate each homeowner providing a donation. If anyone should have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your consideration.
The Board has reviewed the 2010 Pressure Washing Bids from 3 vendors and have made the decision to go with Rea’s Landscaping for the pressure washing of the porches only this year. Once a date has been scheduled, homeowners will be notified and further information will be provided at that time.

2010 Earth Day Festival

2010-04-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

Charleston County Hosts 2010 Earth Day Festival on April 17

Festival will be from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Park Circle in North Charleston

Charleston County’s Environmental Management Department will host the 2010 Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 17, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Park Circle in North Charleston.

The County’s 11^th annual Earth Day Festival is a celebration of Charleston County’s environmental community. The festival provides educational opportunities highlighting Charleston County’s environmental challenges and successes.

National Association of Letter Carriers Food Drive

2010-03-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

National Association of Letter Carriers Food Drive occurs every year on Mother’s Day weekend. This is the nation’s largest one-day effort to help needy families. All of the food that is collected comes to the Lowcountry Food Bank. Last year it was 100,000 pounds! It’s so easy to donate. Just leave a bag of food at, in or by your mailbox and the letter carrier will pick it up and bring it back to the local post office.

For more information visit the National Association of Letter Carriers Food Drive website at http://www.nalc.org/commun/foodrive/ or contact Amy Kosar at akosar@lcfbank.org or (843) 747-8146 ext. 108

2010 Census

2010-03-15T04:36:00.000-07:00

How are community associations affected by the census? Census responses are used to calculate congressional representation and the distribution of taxpayer money back to states, cities and local governments. An accurate count ensures your community receives its fair share of political representation and funding. Local governments also use census figures to plan roads, schools and other infrastructure. Businesses also use the numbers to plan commercial developments.

How can individuals help? Remind your neighbors that the census is a foundational part of our democracy. Help promote census participation by getting involved with a local Complete Count Committee. For more information, visit www.2010census.gov.

2010-02-03T06:55:00.000-08:00

Please see the below list of upcoming events in Park West for the months of February and March. These events are subject to change, so please check with Park West Master Association if you should have any questions.

February 2010

Bingo Night

February 10, 2010

6pm- 8pm

Park West Clubhouse

Valentine’s Making Party

February 11, 2010

3pm-5pm

Park West Clubhouse

March 2010

Bingo Night

March 10, 2010

6pm-8pm

Park West Clubhouse

Pre-St. Patty’s Day Party

March 16, 2010

3pm-5pm

PW Clubhouse

Food Drive for Animals

March 27, 2010

10am-12pm

Park West Clubhouse

2010-01-20T07:10:00.000-08:00

The Board of Directors will be meeting on January 28^th at 6:30 pm.

Please remember that payments are due on the 1^st of the month and late by the 10^th of the month.

We have had issues with some neighborhood children taking the rocks located around the drainage culvert in the pond and tossing them into the middle of the pond. Please talk to your children and make sure that these rocks are not being disturbed. They are placed there for a reason and the Association can not afford to send someone in to retrieve them. If anyone sees this occurring, we ask that you notify the Association. We greatly appreciate your cooperation.

2010-01-06T07:57:00.000-08:00

As if the cold didn't give you enough things to worry about…

Charleston neighborhood residents, complex managers, residents and merchants,

With the long cold-snap we are predicted to have the next week or two, and through the winter, many people will feel a need to "warm-up" their car in the mornings. Some do it to make it more comfortable for children or themselves; some to get the ice off the windshield; some just to make the car run right.

We highly recommend against leaving a vehicle running and unattended, as this opens an opportunity for the car to be stolen, even in a "safe" neighborhood. On city streets it is unlawful to do it for more than a few minutes, just for this reason.

Who steals cars this way? Consider the middle school kids at the corner tired of waiting in the cold for their bus, or the worker who can't be late again to the jobsite, or the teen runaway looking for a way out, or any other number of scenarios, not to mention professional car thieves.

If you still decide to pre-heat your vehicle (again, we discourage this), please remember that you need to also take steps to keep it from being stolen.

Lock the doors, keep visual observation

Use a CLUB or similar steering-wheel lock (separate the keys)

Block the vehicle in with another car.

Maybe now is the time to clean out that garage and keep the car inside…

People also often feel a need to leave the car running to keep the heater on when they're "just running in for a second". These include school and day-care drop-offs, delivering or picking up take-out food or dry-cleaning, convenience store stops, etc. Cars are stolen this way constantly, occasionally with small children left inside.

Please TURN the CAR OFF, Lock It, and Take the Keys (AND your purse, ladies). The couple of minutes you turn the car off will not make the car significantly colder. You'll save yourself the misery of waiting in the cold to file the stolen car report and everything else associated with having your car stolen.

Thank you.

Sgt. Shelor

Charleston Police Crime Prevention

769-7407