8/14/2019 ElToro1108

1/16

Los Rancheros AssociationOFFICERS

President: Norma Moore 887-0463 Vice President: Mary Dimsdale 785-2571

Secretary: Marisa Leasure 978-6778 Treasurer: Suzanne Hicks 887-3160

EXECUTIVE BOARDRey Abaya 670-8711 Jerry Abbott 887-8237 June Hart 783-3639

Fran LaTorre 887-1509 Patty Little 783-1534 Julie Manzo 783-1911

Juan Puyeo 782-4624 Judy Rodgers 785-4894

RESIDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND COMMUNITY CONTACTSBingo . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ron Gomez 782-5183 Dime Bingo . . . . . . . . Lorraine Schmuck 783-7294

HMOA Rep . . . . . . . Fran La Torre 887-1509 Lunch Bunch . . . . . . . Joy Cunningham 785-4609

N.E.R.T. . . . . . . . . . Dawn Plaskon 887-2199 Neighborhood Alert. . Darlene Richardson 785-8780

Spectrum Meals (Tuesday and Thursday). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Horton 732-6671

The EXECUTIVE BOARD meets the LAST THURSDAY of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the main clubhouse.

Los Rancheros RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION meets the FIRST THURSDAY of the monthat 7:00 p.m. in the main clubhouse unless otherwise announced.

EL TORO Jeanie Schultz 784-1997 e-mail el t o ro . e d i t o r @ c o m c a s t . n e t

Deadline for all submissions to the El Toro is the 10th of each month for the following month.

1

From the EditorArticles that appear in the El Toro are presented as an

informational service to the residents. Contents are the optionof the editor but do not necessarily represent the opinion ofthe editor, the homeowners association or management.

Reader response is welcome. Your article must be inmy paper tube at 28408 Granada Circle, or posted to mye-mail address, no later than the 10th of the month. Allsubmissions must be signed with your name/phone num-ber included, as any article must be verified. Your namewill not appear, if you so request.

Editor has the right to edit for space or libel. Articlesconsidered in bad taste will not be printed. Submissionsmust meet the Editorial Guidelines set forth by the pub-lishers, Mobile Home Park Magazines.

Whenever possible, the editor prefers to capture key-strokes for material to appear in the El Toro. If you aretyping something up, you might as well type it directly intoan e-mail and send it to me that way. No e-mail? Well, OK,submit the hard copy and well manage.

PLEASE DO NOT FORWARD EMAIL. Forwarding resultsin those little >> marks all through the copy, plus it exposes MYe-mail address to YOUR whole broadcast list and I DONTwant THEIR forwards. If you are submitting an item someonee-mailed to you, COPY IT and PASTE it into a NEW e-mailwindow to send to me at: eltoro.editor@comcast.net.

Thanks, Jeanie Schultz, editor

EDITORIAL POLICIES(http://mobilehomeparkmagazines.com/mhbsite/editorial/rules.aspx)

The Mobile Home Board publications informs and pro-motes the mobile home system; residents, managementand those that serve the mobile home community.

The Mobile Home Board publications are not politicaltools. They are a source of information and enjoyment forpark residents. To ensure this policy we have developedthe following guidelines:

Editorial Guidelines: Editor is responsible for gathering information and

sending it to us in a form they want. Each editor mustallow all residents organizations and management to par-ticipate in the publication.

The publication is not to be used for disputes by eitherresidents or management. Mobile Home Park Magazinesmust remain neutral in all resident/management issues topreserve the integrity of the magazine. Not all residentsare on one side or the other of an issue. Since we do notresearch each story, we cannot use Mobile Home ParkMagazines to weigh either side of these very fragile rela-tionships.

Resident political organizations are asked to limit theirinformation to meeting notices and reports of chaptermeetings. No listings of in-park-services (i.e. babysitting,handymen, Avon, etc.)

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

2/16

2

Come

to

the

Los RancherosAssociation Meeting

THURSDAY,November 6, 2008

at 7:00 p.m.

in the main clubhouse.

EVERYBODY THAT LIVES HERE is asked toattend (not just the homeowner).

Next meeting:

THURSDAY, December 4, 2008

Join us for

BINGOFirst and Last

Saturdaysof each month,NOON TO 3:00 P.M.Snack bar open before play

and during breaksserving nachos, hot dogs, sodas, snacks.

Ron Gomez, coordinator 782-5183Volunteer help is appreciated, call Ron for info.

NOTICEPer state law, no one under the age

of 18 is allowed in the clubhouseduring Bingo

COFFEEis available in the

Clubhouse dailyduring office hours forresidents of Spanish Ranch I.

Spanish Ranch I Informationhas moved to page 15.

ELECTION DAY isNOVEMBER 4, 2008

VOTE!

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

3/16

3

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Sponsored by Los Rancheros Charities.

HOLIDAY CRAFTS and GIFT ITEMS GALORE!

Bargains Gifts Baked Goods(get a jump on your holiday shopping plus take home dessert)

Contact: Kevin Kelly, 589-8119for more information.

TABLES RESERVED FIRST COME FIRST SERVED.

Call Kevin to see if there are any tables left.Cost $15/table or 2/$25.

SNACK BAR WILL BE OPEN!Coffee/doughnuts! Come have lunch!

Note to vendors:The clubhouse will be open at 7 p.m. Friday evening for setup tovendors only. You must cover your table to protect the surface

before set up. No tires or excessively greasy or dirty items, please.

& Craf t Faire

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

4/16

4

Join the

Ladies Club

at noon on the

second

Thursday

for

DIME BINGO!Ladies! Bring your lunchand lets get together.

Dessert provided.

It costs only a dime a game,winner take all!

+ .25 for the bank which gets raffled back tosomebody at the first gathering in January.

Come to the Main club-house on the SecondThursday, at noon!

For more information callLorraine Schmuck 783-7294

Ladies Dime Bingo is for mature women who

would like to get together for sharing ideas.

DIME BINGO!Ladies!

Bring your lunch and

lets get together.

Dessert provided.

It costs only a dime agame, winner take all! +

.25 for the bank which

gets raffled back to

somebody each January.

Come to the Main

clubhouse on the

Second Thursday,

at noon! For more

information call

Lorraine Schmuck

783-7294

Dime Bingo Dessert

Schedule:

November: Joy

December: Christmas Party

Ladies Club invites all Ladiesat SR-I

to come join us at any of our events. Get acquainted!

LUNCHBUNCH

The Lunch Bunch meets

on the third THURSDAY

(unless otherwise

announced) of each

month at noon (earlier

for carpooling). All are

welcome.

2008

Nov 20 TBA

Dec Christmas Party

Coordinator:

Joy Cunningham,

785-4609

SCHEDULES SUBJECT

TO CHANGE.

SPANISH RANCH IRESIDENT INFORMATION

www.spanishranch1.blogspot.com

The web address is not case-sensitive, but you MUSTuse a number 1 (one) and not a roman numeral I (i).

The El Toro is posted here.

Letters to the Editor are welcome on anysubject. Send to:eltoro.editor@comcast.net.

(You MUSTsign your name but

we wont use it if you dont wantus to.)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Newspaper TubesNewspaper tubes donated by the local news-

papers are used to notify residents of events via

flyers and the monthly park magazine. Please call

the office and let them know if you need a tube

installed at your home. 783-5535

IF ITS NOT YOURS, DONTFEED IT!

Sure, you feel sorry for that stray cat or dog,but if you feed it, it WILL stick around and per-haps not go back to its rightful family.

Dont leave pet food outside!Food left out will attractraccoons, stray pets,

opossums, and othervarmints!

Only indoor pets are permittedin the park so dont

encourage outsideanimals to stay!

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

5/16

5

Comedy Corner contributed by S. Higman (no. 169)(most copyright info unknown - web-exchange)

Potato Garden

An old man lived alone in Idaho. He

wanted to spade his potato garden,

but it was very hard work. His only

son, Bubba, who used to help him,

was in prison. The old man wrote a

letter to his son and described his

predicament.

Dear Bubba,

I am feeling pretty bad because it

looks like I won't be able to plant my

potato garden this year. I'm just get-ting too old to be digging up a garden

plot. If you were here, all my troubles

would be over. I know you would dig

the plot for me. Love Dad

A few days later he received a letter

from his son.

Dear Dad,

For heaven's sake, dad, don't dig up

that garden, that's where I Buried theBODIES. Love Bubba

At 4A.M. the next morning, F.B.I.

agents and local police showed up

and dug up the entire area without

finding any bodies. They apologized

to the old man and left. That same

day the old man received another

letter from his son.

Dear Dad,

Go ahead and

plant the potatoes now.

It's the best I could do

under the circum-

stances. Love Bubba.

Submitted online by Cetrysha-freejokesonline.com

Why ENGLISH is so Hard to Learn

1) The bandage was wound around the wound.2) The farm was used to produce produce.

3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more

refuse.

4) We must polish the Polish furniture.

5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.

6) The soldier decided to desert

his dessert in the desert.

7) Since there is no time like the

present, he thought it was

time to present the present.

8) A bass was painted on thehead of the bass drum.

9) When shot at, the dove dove

into the bushes.

10) I did not object to the object.

11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.

12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to

row.

13) They were too close to the door to close it.

14) The buck does funny things when the does are

present.

15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewerline.

16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to

sow.

17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.

18) After a number of injections my jaw got number.

19) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.

20) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.

Blonde...Infant ScaleAt a pharmacy, a blonde asked to usethe infant scale to weigh the baby she

held in her arms. The clerk explainedthat the device was out for repairs,

but said that she would figure the infant's weightby weighing the woman and baby together on theadult scale, then weighing the mother alone andsubtracting the second amount from the first."That won't work," countered the woman. "I'm notthe mother, I'm the aunt."

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

6/16

You can complete and submit apolice report online for seven typesof non-emergency incidents:

harassing phone calls * hit and run lost property theft vandalism vehicle burglary vehicle tampering.

GO TO

http://www.hayward-ca.gov/Under Online Services, clickPolice Reports

Before using the online reportingsystem, be aware that the incidentmust meet the following conditions:

Be a non-emergency.

Call 9-1-1 if the incident is anemergency.

Have occurred within theHayward City limits only, notin another city, nor in the unincor-porated areas of Alameda County,

nor on a State freeway.If the incident happened in

another city, call the police depart-ment in that city. If the incidenthappened on a State freeway, callthe California Highway Patroloffice nearest you. If the incidenthappened in the unincorporatedarea of Alameda County (Ashland,Castro Va l l e y, Cherryland, Fair-mont Terrace, Fairview, Mt. Edenand San Lorenzo) contact the

Alameda County Sheriff'sDepartment.

Have no known suspects.

This means neither you norsomeone else knows who did thecrime, or that person's location, orthe license plate of the vehicledriven by those who committed thecrime.

Not involve Identity Theft.Police reports regarding identify

theft are not taken online. If youare a victim of identity theft anda Hayward resident, please call510-293-7272.

If the non-emergency incidentoccurred in the Hayward citylimits, but does not meet the otherconditions listed above, call510-293-7272.

After completing and sub-mitting the online report:

You will get a case number, andbe able to print a copy of the report.

Your report will be reviewed bya police officer.

You may be contacted if furtherinvestigation of your case isneeded.

Note: Filing a false police reportis a crime.

*If you are reporting a Harassing

Phone Call, there is an additional step

required: After filing a report, call SBC

Security (1-800-698-7223) with the

report number for more instructions.

S e p t e m b e r sN e i g h b o r h o o d

Alert meetingwas very enlight-ening. The guestspeaker was a

member of the Hayward street nar-cotics team. He explained the dif-

ferent narcotics, street names, howthey were used and the effect it hadon people. Crystal methampheta-mine is very big in A l a m e d aC o u n t y. The drug of choice inHayward seems to be crack cocaine.These Neighbor Alert meetings areopen to everyone, they are the lastWednesday of the month.

Hayward Police are asking forany information on gangs that youmight have. You can call John Lage

at H.P.D. and leave a message, itcan be unanimously or you can e-mail him at:

John.lage@Hayward.ca.gov.

It has been stated thatNeighborhood Watch does not sup-port Los Ranchos Association. We

do support the association. We alsosupport management and theHayward Police. We do not getinvolved in the politics of the park.Neighborhood Watch does try andpromote peace and harmony withall residents. We work with man-agement and the H.P.D. on drugsand crime here in the park.

Blight was a problem in the parkin the past but has gotten better.Ninety percent of all crimes are

drug related. We had a terrible rashof burglaries last year in the park.Most of the people implicated inthese have either moved away orwere arrested.

As of late I have not heard of toomuch crime in the park. One newresident did have a very bad wel-coming and they reported it. If thecrimes arent reported it is veryhard to help. I know some of theneighbors reported at the associa-tion meeting that strangers werewalking up to their doors. Insteadof reporting to H.P.D., managementand Neighborhood Alert, oneneighbor chased the intruder witha baseball bat. That is not recom-mended as now days you have noidea if that person is carrying aweapon or what.

National Night Out was criti-cized for not having enough food.

Yes, we ran out of food. To our sur-prise we had many more residentsattend this year. Next year we willplan for more residents and hope-fully have more activities for thechildren. Last year, 2007, the asso-ciation donated $150.00, this year,2008 they donated $50.00.

Most of you know that I havesold my house. Surprisingly, it soldquicker than I had anticipated. Ieventually will be moving out of thearea but one of the residents askedme to stay and be on her rentalagreement. So I also have a homehere in the park and you will beseeing me from time to time.

Darlene Richardson has gra-ciously offered to take overNeighborhood Watch for me. This isa volunteer position and there arerequirements from the HaywardPolice department that Darlene hasmet. You can always call her.

Neighborhood Watch meetings

are the second Tuesday of themonth at the main clubhouse at7 p.m. Thanks for all your support.Stay alert, keep safe.

Linda Moniz,Neighborhood Watch

510-461-1131

Darlene Richardson,

Neighborhood Watch

510-785-8780

6

NEIGHBORHOOD A L E RT

Submit a police report online

If theincident

is anEmergency,

CALL9-1-1

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

7/16

REPORT PROBLEMS IN YOURNEIGHBORHOOD TO

Darlene Richardson 785-8780

(file a complaint, too or call the

police, 293-7000.)

November 11, 20087:00 p.m.

in the ClubhouseCome join your neighbors and

bring your good ideas for makingour park safe, drug-freeand a nice place to live!

STOPGRAFFITIREWARD

PROGRAM

$500REWARD

RECOMPENSA

For information that

leads to the arrest and

conviction of graffiti

vandals in Hayward.

Para informacin que

dar lugar a la detenciny a la conviccin de los

delincuentes de graffiti

en Hayward.

Call:510-583-5500

English & Espaol

More info:

www.hayward-ca-gov

Please ReportVandalism:Please call the

police and then theoffice if you see anyone

vandalizing property inthe Park such as break-ing street lights, signsand back gate key pad,etc.

P l e a s e report any-thing suspicious.

Thank you, Te r e s aCruz, SR-1 Manager

7

With fire-wise common sense,

you can make sure tragedy does

not come between you and the fes-

tive holiday you have planned.

Follow these fire prevention tips to

help you and your family have a

safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Keep your family and

overnight guests safe with a work-

ing smoke detector on every level of

the house, in every bedroom, and in

the halls adjacent to the bedrooms.

Test smoke detectors monthly and

replace batteries at least twice a

year.

Overnight guests should be

instructed on the fire escape plan

and designated meeting place for

your home.

Have a fire extinguisher avail-

able not more than 10 feet from the

stove, on the exit side of the room.

A 2-1/2 lb. class ABC multi-

purpose dry chemical extinguisher

is recommended. Know how to use

your fire extinguisher.

Start holiday cooking with a

clean stove and oven.

Keep the kitchen off-limits to

young children and adults that are

not helping with food preparations

to lessen the possibility of kitchen

mishaps.

When cooking, do not wear

clothing with loose sleeves or dan-

gling jewelry. The clothing can

catch on fire and the jewelry can

catch on pot handles, causing spills

and burns.

Cook on the back burners

when possible and turn pot handles

in so they dont extend over the

edge of the stove.

Never leave cooking unattend-

ed. If you must leave the kitchen

while cooking, turn off the stove or

have someone else watch what is

being cooked.

Keep Thanksgiving decora-

tions and kitchen clutter away

from sources of direct heat.

Candles are often part of holi-

day decorations. Candles should

never be left burning when you are

away from home, or after going tobed. Candles should be located

where children will not be tempted

to play with them, and where

guests will not accidentally brush

against them. The candle holder

should be completely noncom-

bustible and difficult to knock over.

The candle should not have com-

bustible decorations around it.

If smoking is allowed inside,

provide guests with large, deep

ashtrays and check them frequent-ly. After guests leave, check inside

and under upholstery and in trash

cans for cigarette butts that may be

smoldering.

Fire Safety on Thanksgiving

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

8/16

Neighborhood WatchKnow Your Neighbors!

Courtesy of Los Rancheros Association

Please do your share!Lets all watch out for each other!

Fill in your neighbors names onthis handy reference sheet.

In an emergency youll need thisinformation, but in the meantime youllknow who to call if you spot a problemyour neighbor should know about.

Lets get acquainted!

Across Left Across Across Right

Next Door to Left Next Door to Right

YourHome

Report a CrimePOLICE FIRE RESCUE

911

8

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

9/16

Also consider carrying:

a set of jumper cables, a tire gauge, and work

gloves

a few hand tools (pliers, screwdrivers, Allen

wrenches)

some rope and at least one bungee cord

towels and a roll of toilet paper (in a plastic bag)

a small 12-volt tire-inflator

an empty (new, never used) one-gallon gas can

change for a payphone and a pair of comfortable

shoes

a cheap/disposable rain coat/suit/poncho

All these items can fit in a small or mediumsize gym/duffle bag or a box and kept in your vehi-cle's trunk, back-seat floorboard, or other storage

area in the vehicle. Keep it updated, but neverremove it from your vehicle.

In addition to your basic "breakdown kit" youshould also have a basic first aid kit in your vehi -cle at all times.

Fire Extinguisher

Also consider purchasing and mounting asmall ABC-rated portable fire extinguisher in yourvehicle. Buy one with a "mount" designed for usein vehicles. Portable fire extinguishers should besecurely "mounted" in the vehicle to prevent

rolling and damage. The extinguisher should bevisible and easy to reach. Mount the bracket on astrong, stable surface. It can be mounted in anysloping, vertical or horizontal position.

Wheres the spare?

Know how to access your spare tire and jack.Vehicle owners should also consider obtaining tow-ing insurance, either as a rider on their automo-bile insurance policy (such riders are usually veryinexpensive for excellent coverage) or by joiningan automobile club or other provider. Be prepared!

Top off

It doesn't cost any more to keep the top quar-ter of your tank filled than it does to keep the bot-tom quarter filled. Even if you're pressed for time,take time to fill up the tank. Making a habit ofchecking your fuel gauge whenever you start dri-ving, and routinely "topping off" your tank, canprevent unexpected, untimely and dangerousroadside emergency situations.

from The Police Notebook

When you travel, know where you are goingand how to get there and back. Check for con-struction detours; for longer trips, get a weatherforecast.

Check conditions

If traveling out-of-state, most state lawenforcement agencies provideroad-and-highway information;check to see what conditionsthey report before leaving.Inform a family member whereyou will be and when to expectyou back; give them your routeif they don't know it.

Travel and conduct your business during day-light hours if possible. Lock doors and windowswhen getting into your car and keep them locked

while driving.Take your cell phone

If you have access to a cellular telephone, carryor take it. If possible, know the emergency cellcodes for the area you're in. All the western statesuse 9-1-1. In addition, Nevadas highway patrolcan be reached at star-N-H-P (*647) and Idahosstate police at star-I-S-P (*477).

When driving, keep doors locked and windowsrolled up. Maintain at least half a tank of fuel, andkeep vehicle in good repair.

If planning a "road trip" over the holidays,have your vehicle serviced and checked out suffi-ciently far ahead to allow for repairs if needed.Dont forget to have the mechanic check yourspare tire and all fluid levels along with the otherpreventive maintenance procedures.

Consider keeping spare fuses and a "break-down kit" in your vehicle at all times. Breakdownkits may be purchased from a variety of sources, or

you can assemble your own at any auto parts orhardware store using a commercial version as aguideline.

Breakdown Kit

Minimally, a "breakdown kit" should include:

a thermal blanket/bag and a gallon of water

a HELP sign/flag and flares/reflectors

a flashlight (check batteries semi-annually)

duct tape

9

Travel Tips for the Holiday Season (or anytime)

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

10/16

Come and Eat !! I t s a S N AP!(S enior N ut rit ion and A ct ivit ies Project )

All SR-1 seniors are eligible and invited to participate in

SPECTRUM MEALSA government-sponsored program for seniors over 55.Es un programa guvernamental para ancianos mas de 55 aos.

Tuesdays & Thursdays in the main SR1 Clubhouse(except holidays)

Martes y Jueves en el Clubhouse (menos dias feriados)

NOTE! Signups are required. You must call before noon the day before.Tiener que registrarse antes de doce un dia nates. Llamen a Ruth Horton 732-6671.

Call Ruth Horton 732-6671for reservations or information. (Help is invited, too.)

Meal served at 4:30 p.m. Come early to socialize.Las comidas estaran servidas a las 4:30 p.m.Illegue temprano para socialisar se lon ellos.

$3.25 at door Non-seniors/Guests $4.75 10 Dinner Tickets: $30.00

$3.25 en la puerta. Los invitados pueden atendes por $4.75.Donations are always accepted.

Meals include fish, BBQ chicken, vegetarian spaghetti, salads, soups (more so in winter),pork chops, hamburger, lasagna, and always a dessert! Milk is included with each meal.

NOTE: on days soup is scheduled, you can substitutea hamburger or veggie burger! A Spectrum menu is posted in the SR-1 clubhouse.

More information: Food is delivered hot from a central facility.Volunteers monitor the temperature of the food as it arrives and served and keep a log

as required by the government.

All SR1 seniors are eligible and invited to participate.

Dinner is served 5 nights a week at the Josephine Lum Lodge at W. Tennyson and Oliver.

(Lunch is served at 11:30 daily same menu.) Phone 785-1997.

10

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

11/16

11

Pet care expert, magazinecolumnist and radio and televi-sion pet care personality,Charlotte Reed discusses keep-ing your pet safe during theThanksgiving holiday.

The fragrant smell ofThanksgiving dinner permeat-ing throughout your home islikely to whip your four-leggedfriend into a food frenzy, saysReed.

Unfortunately, the holidaymeal could be lethal for your petbut by following a few simpleprecautions, you will ensure theupcoming holiday weekend willbe happy and healthy for the

entire family.Charlotte suggests when

planning for Thanksgiving, con-sider the following:

1. Dont give your animal dif-ferent food than they would nor-mally get. Feeding turkey toyour dog or cat can cause him orher unwanted abdominal pain,vomiting or diarrhea, none ofwhich are welcome during thisfestive weekend.

2. Discourage your familymembers and guests fromindulging your pet with inap-propriate snacks. Food high insodium (especially peanuts andchips) and other fatty foods likepoultry skin, beef or pork fat cancause an inflammation of pan-creas. Pancreatitis is potentiallylife-threatening condition.

3. Dispose of aluminum foil,plastic wrap, and wax paperfrom holiday foods. If your pet

can get to it, he or she will lickthe food off foils or wraps. Theswallowing of such coveringscan cause an intestinal obstruc-tion.

4. Secure yourgarbage. It onlytakes a minutefor your littlescavenger to get into thegarbage and wolf down whatev-

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Your Pets

er smells good-including thestring used to tie the turkey.

5. Keep chocolate away fromyour dog. Chocolate, which con-tains theobromine and caffeine,can be harmful to your pooch.Rapid breathing and hyperac-tivity are signs of bad reactionto chocolate.

6. Turkey bones are alsodangerous for your pet. A n ybrittle, spiky bone could lodge inthe esophagus or cause an irri-tation of his or her stomach orintestines.

7. Maintain his regularschedule for feeding and exer-cise. Minimizing the stress ofanimal means being aware ofhis daily routine and expecta-tions. Pay as much attention toyour pet as usual so that he willnot feel neglected or insecure.

8. Keep your pet home andaway from parade celebrations.With the large crowds, your petcan become stressed or evenworse, can get lost in the crowd.

9. Make sure your furryfriend has fresh water at alltimes. Frequently check yourpets water bowl to make surethe supply is clean. Busy chil-dren and relatives may bump a

bowl and spill the water.10. Provide a quiet

refuge for your animal.With all the holidays

fanfare, you pet will needa time out from visiting

friends and family. Acomfortable crate is

one solution; a room with a DoNot Disturb sign is another.Give your dog or cat time andspace to settle down or take anap.

11. Keep current registra-tion and identification tags onyour pet. With guests coming inand out of your home, it is veryeasy for a door to be left ajar andfor your animal to wander off.

By being aware of these dan-gers to your pet, you can ensureboth you and your pet the bestpossible holidays.

Did you know that a permitis required when you makemost physical changes to yourhome?

The State Department ofHousing & Community Develop-

ment (HCD) requires a permitfor exterior changes, such as: awning extensions room additions air conditioner installations storage shed construction porches decks water heater replacement

Park managers are requiredby HCD to sign off on a permitapplication for exterior items.

H C D requires permits forchanging your homes interioras well, but management does

not get involved in this area.The management office has

plot plan forms required forthe permit application.

Teresa Cruz, park managerARC Management Co.

Changes to Your HomeRequire a Permit!

Is your contractor licensed?Check at www.cslb.ca.gov/

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

12/16

New CARE income levels; New Family Electric RateAssistance (FERA) program

By Edward G. Poole

Effective June 1, 2008, there are new income levels to determine if a person or household qualifiesfor the 20% California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) discount provided by the electric and gas util-ities. From June 1, 2008, to May 31, 2009, the income levels have increased over current levels, and con-tinue to be based on the number of persons in one household:

1 or 2 persons $30,500 5 persons $50,6003 persons $35,800 6 persons $58,0004 persons $43,200 Each additional person $ 7,400

To be a CARE household, the total gross income from all sources, both taxable and nontaxable,must be less than the totals shown in the above chart. Persons who are claimed as a dependent on anoth-er person's income tax return will not be eligible to be considered part of a household. For any person inthe household receives public assistance (Medi-Cal, Food Stamps, AFDC/TANF, WIC, or LIHEAP),CARE is also available.

The CARE discount is for both gas and electric service. It is important that community owners com-municate the new income levels to residents. In addition, under the Public Utilities Code, communityowners are required to post, in a conspicuous place, the applicable prevailing residential gas and elec-tric rate schedule as published by the serving utility.

FERA Program Household Income GuidelinesUpdated Effective June 1, 2008, for electricity customers of PG&E, SDG&E, SCE

The FERA(Family Electric Rate Assistance) program is for households of three or more persons withtotal income that falls between 175% and 250% of the federal poverty limits.

Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program

The PUC adopted a program to assist lower-middleincome households with electric rates by permitting Tier3 electric rates to be charged at Tier 2 rates in order forcertain residential customers to afford basic energyneeds. Residents receiving the benefit of CARE for theirsubmetered electric bills, or those receiving medical base-

line benefits, are not eligible for the FERA program.Instructions: Take the number of persons in the

household who live there more than 50% of the time, andadd up their incomes from all eligible sources (see listbelow table). The total combined annual income shouldbe less than or equal to the amount shown in the table.

A household's gross annual income may not exceedthese amounts:

Number of Persons Total Combinedin Household Annual Income

1 or 2 Not Applicable

3 $35,801 to $44,800

4 $43,201 to $54,000

5 $50,601 to $63,200

6 $58,001 to $72,400

Each Additional Person + $7,400 to $9,200

New forms available from utilities

In order to implement the FERA program, the utilities have provided and made available new appli-cation forms. The forms are substantially similar to the CARE forms previously available.

Edward G. Poole is an attorney and partner with the San Francisco law firm of Anderson & Poole, represent -ing clients in utility matters. He is also a utilities consultant for WMA.

12

Check this out, tooIf you have already completed and were

approved for the C.A.R.E. program (whichreduces your cost of electricity and gas),you may be eligible for a reduction in yourWASTE Management fee.

You may obtain the application for thisprogram at the:

City Clerk's officeCity Hall - B StreetOR BY CALLING510-583-4642They will mail it to you.Once you have completed the applica-

tion and attached the required documents(one being proof of income), return theapplication to City Hall where you received

it. They will tell you how long it will take forreview of your application and a decisionsent to you. Generally if you receivedC.A.R.E. rates then you should qualify forthis program as well. It doesnt hurt to ask!

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

13/16

13

LIGHT UPYOUR LIFE

ANDOURS TOO!Leave your porch

light on at night!

It doesnt have to break the bank.

You can use:

light sensors that will turn your lighton automatically at dusk and off atdawn.

motion-activated lights

solar-powered walkway

lights or spotlights

For more information

about these things, come

to the Neighborhood Watch meeting

the second Tuesday

of every month,

at 7 p.m. in the clubhouse

WEAR WHITE AT NIGHT!Out for a Walk?

Going to the Neighbors?

We Cant See You

in the Dark!

Wear something WHITE orREFLECTIVE even if its just to throw a

white sweater over your shoulders or aroundyour waist. This simple precaution could

prevent a tragedy.

THWART THE

THIEVES!Put your mail in the

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE

MAILBOXlocated in front of the

Main Clubhouse close to thestreet (near the Park map).

SAFETY FIRSTIN THE HOT TUB

The following are not allowed in the hot tub enclosure:

NO Food NO Glass

NO Floating Devices

NO Toys (including squirt guns)

NO Pets

Approved swimwear onlyUse common sense and care when using the

hot tub. Minors should always be

accompanied by a parent or adult.

Shower before entering the hottub andget out to use the bathroom.

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

14/16

14

Resident Suggestion / Objection Form

We welcome your views and suggestions on how to improve the quality and range of services we provide at

the community you reside. This form will allow residents to provide feedback to management on services,

suggestions for improvements, or general concerns.

While we are attempting to promote a harmonious community atmosphere, sometimes incidents occur which

may infringe on your enjoyment of the Park or perhaps you may have a suggestion or positive feedback to

share. In order to remedy the situation when appropriate, we request all complaints and/or suggestions to be

submitted to management in writing.

Type of communication: (Please check one that applies)

____Concern about Park Facilities ____Concern about Park Management

____Concern about park residents ____Suggestion

____Positive Feedback ____Other: _________________________________________

Name of Community: ______________________________________________ Space Number:_____________________

Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Full Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Detail suggestion, feedback, incident or concern (specify date, time and place if applicable):

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What action do you think is appropriate?

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Because of repeated complaints, in extreme cases, eviction proceedings may be initiated against an offend-ing park resident. In compliance with California law, it may be necessary to use this statement for documen-

tation purposes. Consequently we cannot insure complete confidentiality.

Signed: _____________________________________________________________________Dated:_____________________

Print name:_____________________________________________________________________________________________

______ This form is for informational purposes only and does not require a response.

______ I wish for a response. My telephone number is:_____________________________________________________

Equal Housing Opportunity

Management Office Use Only: Received On:__________________ Form of Delivery: __________________

Disposition __________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Please provide a copy of this form to the Los Rancheros Association Board and keep a copy for yourself.

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

15/16

EL TORO MAGAZINE is published monthly and distributedaround the first of the month. Dates and times of activities are

noted on the calendar therein. Special activities will beannounced in the regular section of pages.

RESIDENT MANAGERS/OFFICEManager: Teresa Cruz, Rutherford Investment Co.Office hours: 9-12 and 1:30-4 Monday-Friday.

Office address: 28400 Granada CircleRent may be dropped in mail slot in office door (next

to laundry room on front side of bldg.)

Phone: 510-783-5535Shari and Kenny Bachmann, relief managersOn-call for emergencies Sat.-Sun.-Holidays

In an emergency, call 510-783-5535.Answering service will contact managers as needed.

ORGANIZATIONS

The Los Rancheros Association and the Spanish Ranch #1

Ladies Club are automatically comprised of park residents.There are no dues.

MEETINGS of the Los Rancheros Association are the FIRSTTHURSDAY of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Main

Clubhouse unless otherwise announced.

LADIES CLUB meets the SECOND THURSDAY of eachmonth at 12 NOON in the Main Clubhouse.

The LUNCH BUNCH meets the THIRD THURSDAY ofeach month to go out to lunch at various area restaurants.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH meets the SECOND TUESDAY.

BINGO is the FIRST and LAST SATURDAY of each month.

SWIMMING POOL / HOT TUB

Pool open May-October. Hot Tub open year round.

TRANSPORTATION

#391 SHOPPERS SPECIAL Leaves hourly beginning

10:10 a.m. on TUES. and FRI. for SOUTHLAND from frontof Main Clubhouse. RETURNS at Noon, 1 and 2 p.m. Ask for

transfer if you plan to return on the bus.

#77 AC TRANSIT BUS Leaves for downtown every hour

5:52 am-5:52 p.m. M-F. Bus stops outside the park across

from Ruus Park. To go to Tennyson Shopping Center, bus

stops at corner of Ruus Park. Catch return bus at Tampa side

of shopping center. Sat.-Sun. service 8:31 am-6:31 pm

AC TRANSIT FARES $1.75 ages 18-64, ages 5-17 and

65+ is 85. Transfer good for 1.5 hours is an additional 25.

MISCELLANEOUS

The Clubhouses are available to residents for private affairs.

Contact the Office, 510-783-5535The POOL ROOM inside Main Clubhouse is available forresidents to use. See the office for a key.

COMPLAINTS/SUGGESTIONS/REPORTS

are to be submitted to Park Management in WRITING and

must be SIGNED. For any complaints or suggestions

concerning safety, maintenance, replace/repair, give a

copy to the the Executive Board as well as the Office. These

also must be in writing and must be signed.

THERE IS A RESIDENT REPORT FORM IN THISISSUE OFTHE EL TORO.

15

Spanish Ranch #1 Information

Food Safety

Bacteria are often pre-sent in raw foods. Fully cookmeats and poultry, and thor-oughly wash raw vegetablesand fruits.

Be sure to keep hot liq-uids and foods away from theedges of counters and tables,where they can be easilyk n o c ked over by a yo u n gchild's exploring hands.

Wash your hands fre-quently, and make sure yourchildren do the same.

Never put a spoon usedto taste food back into foodwithout washing it.

Always keep raw foodsand cooked foods separate,and use separate utensilswhen preparing them.

Always thaw meat in the

r e f r i g e ra t o r, never on thecountertop.

Foods that require refrig-eration should never be leftat room temperature formore than two hours.

Happy Visiting

Clean up immediatelyafter a holiday party. A tod-dler could rise early andc h o ke on leftover food or

come in contact with alcoholor tobacco.

Remember that thehomes you visit may not be

childproofed. Keep an eye outfor danger spots.

Keep a laminated listwith all of the importantphone numbers you or ababy-sitter are likely to needin case of an emergency.Include the police and firedepartment, your pediatri-cian and the national PoisonHelp Line, 1-800-222-1222.

Traveling, visiting familymembers, getting presents,shopping, etc., can allincrease your child's stresslevels. Trying to stick to yourchild's usual routines, includ-ing sleep schedules and tim-

ing of naps, can help you andyour child enjoy the holidaysand reduce stress.

American Academy of Pediatrics

Food Safety and Happy Visiting

8/14/2019 ElToro1108

16/16

D E C E M B E R

OCT 26 OCT 27 OCT 28 OCT 29 OCT 30 OCT 31 1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 1 2 3 4 5 6

SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT

N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 8

El Toro

Deadline

BINGO

12-3

BUS10 A.M.

BUS10 A.M.

BUS10 A.M.

BUS10 A.M.

BINGO12-3

SPECTRUMDINNER 4:30

SPECTRUMDINNER4:30 p.m.

SPECTRUMDINNER4:30 p.m.

SPECTRUMDINNER4:30 p.m.

HomeownersAssociation

Meeting7:00 p.m.

SPECTRUMDINNER4:30 p.m.

SPECTRUM

DINNER4:30 p.m.

SPECTRUMDINNER4:30 p.m.

NborhoodWatch 7pm

BUS10 A.M.

BUS10 A.M.

BUS10 A.M.

BUS10 A.M.

LUNCHBUNCH

DIME

BINGO

noon

Assn Meeting7:00 p.m.

SPECTRUMDINNER4:30 p.m.

BUS10 A.M.

BINGO12-3

Halween

Party6-9

ThanksgivingDay

Election Day

Veterans Day

SPECTRUMDINNER 4:30

Daylight

Savings

Ends