HRCA October 2024 Newsletter by Laura Mitchell

OCTOBER 2024

2024 BUDGET PLANNING

The HRCA staff is in the midst of the 2025 budget planning process. Departmental reviews took place in early August. The Board of Directors and Finance Committee reviewed the draft budgets with staff on Monday, September 9. The draft budget was presented to the Delegates on Tuesday, September 17, and was posted to the HRCA website under the Financial Information page. Minor revisions, if any, to the budget will be posted on the website through Friday, October 18. The Delegates will be asked to approve the 2025 budget on Tuesday, October 22.

Access the Activity Guide and Newsletter online now at HRCAonline.org

The digital version of the Activity Guide and Newsletter provide immediate and continuous access to upcoming classes, camps, programming details and pertinent community information. We encourage all Highlands Ranch residents to opt-in to the paperless versions to stay up-to-date on all HRCA programming and to reduce print costs. You can scan the QR code below to opt-in to receive the digital only online version of the Activity Guide and Newsletter and to stop receiving a hard copy mailed to your home.

Flu Shot Clinic

Flu Shots (free with most insurances) will be administered by Safeway pharmacists to the Highlands Ranch community.

Date: Thursday, October 10

Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Location: Southridge Recreation CenterWildcat Auditorium, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: Flu shot price without insurance - $44

Contacts

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

303.471.8958

President: Monica Wasden

Vice President: Dan DeBacco

Vice President: Todd Landgrave

Treasurer: Leo Stegman

Secretary: Jim Allen

EASTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

303.471.8858

9568 University Blvd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES

303.471.8958

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

NORTHRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

303.471.8950

8800 Broadway

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

SOUTHRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

303.471.7020

4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

WESTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

720.348.8202

9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

HRCA

A Message From The GM

Dear Highlands Ranch residents,

October is a beautiful month that brings a sense of transition and coziness. The air turns crisp, and the vibrant colors of the Rocky Mountain fall foliage transform landscapes into breathtaking scenes. Sports, sweaters and cider add to the charm, while the cooler temperatures provide a refreshing change from the heat of summer. October also carries a festive atmosphere with Halloween celebrations, making it a time for creativity, gatherings and fun. There’s a peaceful, reflective quality to the month as the year slowly winds down.

Autumn also marks the beginning of budget season for HRCA staff, delegates and board members. Did you know that the HRCA Board and Delegate members play a significant role in the budget process and hold the final approving authority? This extensive process begins in July, with HRCA’s Board of Directors and Finance Committee reviewing draft budgets alongside HRCA leadership in September. Shortly after, the budgets are shared with HRCA Delegates and posted on HRCA’s website under the Financial Information page and reviewed during the delegate meeting on Tuesday, September 17.

The Board and Delegates are given at least 30 days to review the 2025 budget. They are then asked to approve it on Tuesday, October 22. This is a meticulous process that HRCA is committed to following through approved channels, ensuring thorough review at every stage.

Budgets are crucial because they provide a structured plan for managing resources effectively, ensuring that an organization can meet its goals while maintaining financial stability. By outlining expected revenues and expenses, budgets help prioritize spending, guide decision-making and prevent overspending. They also serve as a benchmark for evaluating financial performance, enabling leaders to make informed adjustments when necessary.

The budget process is a vital roadmap, guiding HRCA toward financial stability and strategic growth. It ensures that resources are carefully managed and allocated to meet the community’s needs, from short-term goals to long-term objectives. With careful review and input from multiple stakeholders, the HRCA remains committed to transparency and responsible stewardship.

As the month draws to a close, the vibrant landscape and the diligent work of the HRCA come together, reflecting the essence of October: a time of transition, reflection and preparation for the future.

My best,

Mike Bailey HRCA General Manager

Community Partner Spotlight – Children’s Hospital Colorado

The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) is excited to partner with Children’s Hospital Colorado in a shared mission to promote the health and happiness of children in our community. Through this collaboration, we aim to support the physical and emotional well-being of kids with a variety of initiatives. Both HRCA and Children’s Hospital Colorado are dedicated to creating an environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential. Together, we’re committed to making a positive impact on families throughout the community.

As part of this effort, Children’s Hospital Colorado is pleased to share wellness and mental health tips to help families navigate parenting, school schedules and the social development of their children.

Health Tips:

· Get moving:

Encourage kids to engage in at least an hour of physical activity every day. Regular exercise can boost confidence, help maintain a healthy weight, improve mental health, enhance classroom focus and promote better sleep.

· Prioritize sleep: Lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, behavioral issues and poor academic performance. To ensure restful sleep, establish a consistent bedtime routine and turn off screens about an hour before bedtime.

· Schedule checkups and review immunizations: Regular wellness checks with a pediatrician are essential for your child’s physical and mental health. Ensure your child’s immunizations are up to date during these visits.

Mental Health Tips:

· Practice social skills: Encourage children to develop their social abilities by introducing themselves to others, showing interest in conversations, finding common ground and inviting peers to participate in activities.

· Foster empathy at home: Pay attention to the social interactions within your household. If your child struggles with empathy, try to reduce conflict and model compassion. Seek professional help if needed.

· Show empathic listening: Instead of jumping in with advice, focus on listening and confirming your understanding. Use phrases like, “That sounds challenging,” or ask open-ended questions like, “You seem sad—can you tell me more?” to show you’re fully engaged.

Bullying Prevention:

· Discuss types of bullying: Prevention begins with understanding the different forms of bullying—social, verbal, and physical. Create an open dialogue with your child about these forms and how to address them.

· Encourage speaking up: Teach your child the importance of being an active bystander, and supporting peers who may be experiencing bullying.

· Know the school’s bullying policy: Reach out to your child’s school to understand its approach to preventing and addressing bullying.

HRCA Aquatics Department

As summer concludes and the outdoor pools have been cleaned and drained, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the HRCA Aquatics Department’s remarkable contributions to our community. With an impressive range of aquatic facilities and dynamic programming, the department has once again made a significant splash this year.

Boasting 19 distinct bodies of water, including eight children’s pools, five lap pools, four hot tubs, a dive well and a fitness pool, the HRCA Aquatics Department caters to a wide array of interests. With approximately 1.3 million gallons of water, the HRCA pools are exceptionally well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of its members. In 2023 alone, the pools attracted around 470,000 visits, highlighting their vital role in the community. We are excited to be on track for even more patrons in 2024.

Operational excellence is a hallmark of the HRCA Aquatics Department. During the summer season, about 100 lifeguard shifts are filled daily by a dedicated team of roughly 300 lifeguards. The department maintains high safety standards through comprehensive training programs, including initial and inservice training, a 12-hour annual recertification, and first responder preparedness, requiring approximately 36 hours of training per lifeguard. In addition, every lifeguard has five additional training hours per month. This commitment to safety is further demonstrated by receiving the 2023 Silver International Aquatic Safety Award and adhering to a rigorous internal audit program, which includes four unannounced audits each year.

The department’s programming is as diverse as its facilities. Swim lessons accredited by the Starfish Aquatics Institute ensure topnotch instruction and safety. Nearly 190 participants engage in group lessons, while approximately 200-230 private lessons are conducted each month. For those passionate about swimming year-round, the HRCA offers coached programs for all skill levels, including a summer swim team with around 130 swimmers.

HRCA pools also serve as popular venues for special events, hosting nearly 80 birthday parties and providing pool rentals for local schools and organizations. Special programs such as Infant Swim Resource (ISR) and scuba and snorkeling classes add to the department’s varied offerings, catering to a varying range of aquatic interests.

Each year, the HRCA Aquatics Department excels with its comprehensive facilities, exceptional safety standards, and engaging programming, ensuring a fantastic aquatic experience for all community members. We look forward to seeing how the department will continue to make waves in the coming year. Kudos to the HRCA Aquatics team!

Assessments & Covenants

HRCA Guidelines for Political Signs

The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) fully supports your First Amendment right to freedom of speech, which includes expressing your political views through signs on your property. We want to emphasize that HRCA does not restrict the content of political signs, as long as it falls within the boundaries of protected speech under the First Amendment. However, to maintain the harmony and appearance of our community, there are some important guidelines to follow.

Under normal circumstances, you are permitted to display up to two political signs on your property. This guideline helps maintain the visual harmony in our neighborhoods, ensuring no single property disrupts the overall aesthetic with excessive signage. However, during the “political season”— which this year spans from September 21, to November 12, 2024—there may be some additional latitude afforded in recognition of the increased political engagement typically seen during election periods. This approach strives to balance the community’s appearance with the heightened interest in political discourse.

When it comes to where you can place these signs, it’s essential that they are only displayed on property you fully own. This rule ensures that the placement of signs respects property boundaries and avoids potential disputes with the community.

Size is also an important consideration. Typically, political signs should not exceed 18 inches by 24 inches, ensuring they remain appropriately scaled and do not overwhelm the view. However, during the heightened period of the political season, there may be some room for greater flexibility in how you choose to express your political views.

Quality is another key consideration. Your political signs should be professionally designed and maintained in good condition. This standard ensures that signs contribute to, rather than detract from, the overall look and feel of the neighborhood. Poorly made or deteriorating signs can quickly become eyesores, negatively impacting property values and the community’s image.

Finally, political signs should not be illuminated. This guideline helps preserve the peaceful ambiance of our residential areas, especially at night. Bright lights can be disruptive to neighbors and detract from the overall sense of calm that our community strives to maintain.

By following these guidelines, you contribute to the shared goal of keeping our community looking its best while still exercising your right to political expression. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to maintaining the beauty and order of our neighborhood, especially during the vibrant political season.

ASSESSMENTS

303.471.8815

9568 University Blvd. assessments@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Assessments

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT SERVICES (CIS)

303.471.8821

9568 University Blvd. covenant@hrcaonline.org HRCAonline.org/Covenant

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Infant Swimming Resource (ISR)

Seahawks Fall Swim Team

Join the Seahawks Swim Team this fall for the Colorado Association of Recreational Athletics (C.A.R.A.) swim meets. The C.A.R.A. swim league focuses on both recreational enjoyment and skill development. Practices not included. All swimmers receive a Seahawks swim cap, meet button and event ribbons.

Date: Sundays, October 20, November 3, November 17

Location: Home meets - Northridge (8800 Broadway) | Away meets - Locations vary Details: Scan the QR code for more details.

PEAKS Fall Swim Challenge

Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) is a comprehensive 4 - 6 week program where each lesson is customized for the infant or child. ISR integrates swimming skills that are developmentally appropriate for young children, teaching them to save their own lives, while building confidence. Reach out today to book a fall sessions!

Date: Monday - Friday Morning and Afternoon/Evenings Available

Location: Southridge (indoor pool) - 4800

McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: Scan the QR code for more details.

Whether you were a high school swimmer, are new to lap swimming, or are a more experienced swimmer, the PEAKS Challenge is for you! The PEAKS Challenge includes eight workouts at Eastridge, weekly e-mailed workouts and challenge tracker card. Join today!

Date: Mondays, October 7 - November 25 Time: 10 - 11a.m.

Location: Eastridge - 9568 University Blvd. Details: Scan the QR code for more details.

ADULT COACHED

The Off-Season is ON in the Backcountry Wilderness Area

As the summer heat fades and the crisp, cool air of autumn arrives, the Backcountry Wilderness Area transforms into the perfect outdoor oasis for adventure! Join us for an exciting lineup of events that celebrate the beauty of the season. Whether it’s the Camp Backcountry Fall Break Camp, the festive Fall Fest, the spine-chilling Haunted Forest, or the cozy S’mores Hikes, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss our Elk Bugling Hikes, where you’ll experience the thrill of hearing elk calls. Also, check out our Back the Backcountry end-of-year raffle and fundraiser to win big prizes and support our mission through the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund.

Three Events in the Backcountry Wilderness Area This Month

Fall Fest:

Celebrate autumn with us at Fall Fest! Enjoy a day of fun with pumpkin picking, pony rides, arts and crafts, a bounce house, live animal presentation, and delicious treats from our food truck. It’s the perfect family-friendly event to embrace the best of the season!

Date: Saturday, October 5

Time: 8:30 - 11 a.m.

Haunted Forest Jr.:

For our younger visitors, Haunted Forest Junior is the perfect daytime Halloween adventure! Stroll through our spooky trail during the light of day, pick out a pumpkin and dive into face painting, crafts and more. It’s all the Halloween fun but with fewer frights—ideal for little ones ready to celebrate in a safe, enjoyable way!

Date: Saturday, October 19

Time: 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Haunted Forest:

The gates of the Backcountry Wilderness Area Haunted Forest crack open and reveal sinister scenes for two nights this month. Discover what’s lurking behind every tree and bush in this three-quarter-mile creep through the woods. (Recommended for ages 10+).

Date: Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19

Time: 6:30 - 10 p.m.

Delight your Taste Buds

Discover the art of cooking with our hands-on classes, where you’ll create delectable recipes and master techniques. Transform your kitchen into a gourmet oasis as you learn to create delicious dishes to impress your friends and family. Join us for a culinary adventure and elevate your cooking skills to a whole new level. Scan the Arts QR code for more information.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Hands on Creativity!

Unleash your child’s creativity with our youth pottery classes, where they can shape, sculpt and design their own unique masterpieces. Our expert instructors provide a fun, nurturing environment for young artists to explore their imagination and develop fine motor skills. Sign up today and watch your child’s artistic talents flourish! Scan the Arts QR code below for more information.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Halloween House Decorating

Dueling Pianos

Prepare for extraordinary live entertainment with Dueling Pianos! It’s not just listening; you’ll engage in singing, dancing, and requesting your favorite songs. Each show is a oneof-a-kind experience. If you haven’t joined us before, you’ve been missing out on an unforgettable evening.

Date: Friday, October 18

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: $25

Cold Cases & Cocktails

Does your house stand out as the spookiest in the neighborhood? Or the most inviting for the ghost and goblins who will be trick-or-treating this month? Share your spirit by letting others see your decorating efforts and add your home to the Halloween House Decorating Map! Scan the QR code for more infomation.

Date: The map will go live Friday, October 18. Submissions added through Wednesday, October 30.

Join us as John Wesley Anderson, author of Lou and JonBenet, shares what he has uncovered about the case dating back to Christmas night 1996, where a child beauty queen was found murdered in her family’s home in Boulder, CO. Discover the new insights and revelations that could change the way we understand this tragic and mysterious event.

Date: Wednesday, October 23, and Thursday, October 24

Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: $25

Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon

The Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon offers a challenging, yet rewarding trail race. The course follows a single loop, entirely on dirt, gravel and single-track paths, allowing runners to immerse themselves in the pristine trails of our Backcountry Wilderness Area.

Whether you’re an experienced trail runner or new to the sport, you’ll find a supportive and friendly atmosphere. Come join us for a day of adventure, community and connection with nature.

Date: Saturday, November 2

Time: 9 a.m. start

Location: Rocky Heights Middle School - 11033

Monarch Blvd.

Details: Prices vary

Classical Music Series

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Saturday, November 2: Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon

Tuesday, November 5: Classical Music Series

Wednesday, November 6: Your Health Seminar

Thursday, November 7: Veterans’ Concert

Saturday, November 9: Holiday Gift Fair

The Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association is proud to present a three-part series of classical music at The Highlands Ranch Historic Mansion. The doors will open one hour before the performance each evening so attendees can enjoy self-guided mansion tours.

Date: Tuesdays, October 8, November 5 and December 10

Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Highlands Ranch Mansion - 9500 Gateway Dr. Details: $25 per show

Thursday, November 14: Back the Backcountry Fundraiser

Friday, November 15: Sparkling Wine Tasting

Saturday, November 16: The Nutcracker Highlights

303.471.8888

HRCAonline.org/Events

HRCAonline.org/Tickets

Check the website for the most current event information and to purchase tickets.

Veterans’ Concert

Join us in a special commemoration as we honor and celebrate our veterans. Don’t miss the chance to be part of an evening brimming with patriotic melodies by the Denver Pops Orchestra at the Highlands Ranch Mansion and listen to a heartfelt tribute to our veterans in a beautiful setting.

Date: Thursday, November 7

Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Location: Highlands Ranch Mansion9950 E Gateway Dr.

Details: $25

Holiday Gift Fair

This one-day show is the perfect opportunity to purchase gifts for yourself or someone special in your life. The Eastridge Recreation Center Gym and Track will be filled with a variety of vendors ready to sell their unique work including jewelry, pottery, wooden crafts, bath products, holiday gifts and more!

Date: Saturday, November 9

Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Location: Eastridge - 9568 University Blvd.

Details: Free to attend

Fitness Punch Passes

Unlock your fitness potential with a punch pass for group fitness classes! A punch pass offers flexibility, allowing you to choose from a variety of classes and times that fit your schedule. Enjoy the freedom to try different workouts without the commitment of a monthly membership, and save money rather than paying for individual classes. With a punch pass, you’ll stay motivated by mixing up your routine and exploring new fitness options. At HRCA Fitness, we offer both a 10 or 20 punch pass that expires six months from their date of purchase. Embrace a healthier lifestyle with convenience and value in every punch!

Semi-Private Training!

Experience the best of both worlds with semi-private training! This personalized approach combines the benefits of one-on-one attention with the energy of a small group. Enjoy tailored workouts that address your specific goals, while sharing the session with a peer for added motivation and camaraderie. Semi-private training offers a cost-effective alternative to individual sessions, fostering a supportive community and ensuring you stay engaged and on track with your fitness journey. Grab a buddy with similar fitness training goals and begin working with a trainer today!

Pickleball League Tournament Wrap-up

The competitive pickleball leagues at HRCA are concluding their exciting fall season in October. Players at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels have been competing weekly on the Westridge courts and are now nearing final matches for bragging rights.

Although the outdoor pickleball season is ending, HRCA will continue to offer weekly indoor pickleball lessons at Southridge and Northridge for those looking to learn or enhance their skills. For more information, please scan the QR code, visit our website, or contact the Pickleball Sports Desk at 303-471-8996.

Tennis Session Classes

Colorado Basketball Academy

HRCA is pleased to partner with Colorado Basketball Academy (CBA) to offer yearround, high-quality basketball development programs tailored to your child’s skill level. The six-week sessions focus on individual and specialized player development, including ball handling, agility, coordination, shooting and in-game skills. These classes are led by Doug Maier, a seasoned HRCA coach with extensive basketball experience.

Registration for Sessions 7 and 8—the final tennis classes of 2024 for both adults and youth—opened in September. Join us to develop new skills, participate in drill sessions to enhance your game, and take part in our morning Breakfast Socials. The activities commence at the Northridge Tennis Pavilion.

Location: Northridge - 8800 Broadway

Therapeutic Recreation Fall Break Sports Camp

Fall Break is approaching, and it presents a great opportunity for your aspiring athlete to participate in the Therapeutic Recreation Fall Break Sports Camp. This program offers a chance to engage in six diverse sports, fostering both enjoyment and camaraderie. Sign up now!

Date: Tuesday, October 15 and Thursday, October 17

Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: $65/$75

Therapeutic Recreation Thrilling Thursdays

Adults ages 16 and above with special needs are invited to join us for three hours of friendship and fun. Participants enjoy three activites each week. Monthly registration includes a variety of gym sports, art and crafts, cooking, card and board games, fitness classes, and more.

Date: Thursdays, October 3 - October 31

Time: 12:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: $206/$237

Therapeutic Recreation Halloween Dance

We invite you to attend the Therapeutic Recreation Halloween Spooktacular Dance! Dress in your favorite costume and enjoy an evening of music and entertainment. The event features a DJ, various forms of entertainment, door prizes, a photographer and refreshments. An ISP is required for participation. If you are interested in volunteering for this exciting event, please contact Summer Aden at 303-471-7043.

Date: Friday, October 25

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

Location: Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: $16/$18