HRCA March 2024 Newsletter

NEWSLETTER

March 2024

HRCA EVENT/WEATHER LINE

303-471-8888

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

303-471-8958

Jim Allen

Dan DeBacco

Melissa Park

Monica Wasden

RECREATION CENTER AT EASTRIDGE

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.

RECREATION CENTER AT NORTHRIDGE

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.

RECREATION CENTER AT SOUTHRIDGE

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.

RECREATION CENTER AT WESTRIDGE

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.

DELEGATE ELECTIONS

The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) is divided into 95 Delegate Districts. Each district has an elected Delegate to represent their subdivision. The Delegates meet monthly for updates about the community and upcoming projects. They also vote on important matters, such as any HRCA Bylaw amendments, a governing document outlining the HRCA's structure and the annual budget. The District Delegates are also responsible for electing the Board of Directors. The Board is a five-member group that oversees the organization. The Delegates often make recommendations to the Board on what they believe is best for the community. Delegate volunteerism assists the HRCA in achieving its mission of enhancing property values and creating quality of life through recreation, community events and leadership.

The Annual Meeting of the Members is held each year to elect a Delegate from each district without a sub-association. The 2024 Annual Meeting of the Members, on Tuesday, April 16, will welcome new and returning District Delegates to the Delegate body. They will all serve a two-year term, expiring in April 2026. Residents in our even-numbered districts should already be receiving their voting notifications. We are excited to partner again with Election Buddy, the online host for our Delegate election. Election Buddy sends each voting member a direct letter with a secure code that can be accessed online or through a QR code. This unique voting ID has increased election security and ensured voter information is protected and anonymous. With electronic voting now available, it has made reaching our 10% quorum requirement more accessible and efficient. Election Buddy makes voting convenient for every homeowner and offers easy voting for those not as tech savvy, as members also have the option to vote by dropping off, mailing or emailing their ballot to the information provided on the letter. The increase in community engagement the HRCA has seen since moving voting to this new vendor has been vital in keeping our members involved with what is happening in our community. We have also seen an increase in member interest regarding filling Delegate seats, as we have spent the last year with a very low number of vacant Districts.

For more information about this process and to see examples of our ballots, learn who your current district representative is, or fill a vacant seat, please visit our website at HRCAonline.org/delegates.

COMMUNITY NEWS

MIKE BAILEY

March greetings, Highlands Ranch!

The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) is a proactive organization governed by a five-member volunteer Board of Directors who serve three-year staggered terms and help to set policy for our community. Their volunteerism assists HRCA in achieving our mission of enhancing property values and creating quality of life through recreation, community events, and leadership.

The 2024 Board Election will take place on Tuesday, March 19, at the Annual Meeting of the Delegates. Incumbents Monica Wasden and Dan DeBacco, alongside Delegates Leo Stegman and Todd Landgrave, and resident Jay Geiger are on the ballot to fill the three open seats. In tandem with our regular election, HRCA is working to fill an open seat after a member of the board stepped down in January. Be sure to reach out to your District Delegate if you have any questions and to help show your support. Candidate information is located on the HRCA website.

As we prepare to shift from winter to spring, temperatures will be on the rise, clocks will spring forward, the days will become longer and the grass will begin to turn green. Now is the perfect time of year to plan for spring home improvement projects and ensure that you are staying within compliance guidelines. Before beginning work on your property, please note that most home improvements require a submission that is reviewed and approved by the Architectural Committee. Please remember HRCA’s Community Improvement Services (CIS) department receives several inquiries this time of year, so the sooner you get your home improvement requests in…the better. Requests can be submitted online at HRCAonline.org/property-owners, and the CIS department is more than happy to help guide you through the process.

As the Colorado weather improves, HRCA sees an increase in activity among its residents and we love seeing our members enjoying the recreational amenities conveniently located in our community. If you’ve never participated in our Race Series, join us for the St. Patrick’s Day 5K on Saturday, March 16. The 3.1-mile run/walk is a great way to ease yourself into the challenge. Grab your friends, family, running or walking shoes and wear your Irish flair while joining us as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. A free pancake breakfast will take place following the 5K. For those 21+, a beer tent will be onsite and entertainment will be provided for all. One lucky winner will win $100 by finding the golden kettlebell along the course.

The free Spring Craft Bazaar will take place at Eastridge on Saturday, March 16, from 9 a.m.5 p.m. This one-of-a-kind marketplace will include photography, original art, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry and specialty foods. Remember to frequently visit the events calendar on HRCA’s website to keep in the know about all the exciting happenings in your community!

It's the Highlands Ranch residents who make this community a perfect place to call home, thank you for all your engagement and participation in the nearly 90 events HRCA hosts annually. I look forward to joining you for all the fun happenings in the year ahead.

My Best,

Mike Bailey

HEY BATTER BATTER!

Did you know that the Batting Cages at Westridge offer five baseball and four softball stalls ranging in speed from 3080 mph? Beginning Saturday, March 2, come to play and hang out with friends as the beautiful spring weather begins to settle in. Whether you’re trying out for the major leagues or just want to have fun, our Batting Cages offer a skill level for everyone!

2024 March - October

Batting Cage Season:

Saturday & Sunday only**

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Spring break hours

March 18 - 22

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

(Hours subject to change due to weather. Temperature must be more than 45 degrees to safely operate.)

April 1 - May 24

Monday - Friday

4 - 7:30 p.m

Saturday - Sunday

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

May 25 - September 1

Monday - Friday

10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

September 2 (Labor Day)

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

September 3 - October 26***

Saturday & Sunday only

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

*Batting cage hours are dependent on weather | *hours are subject to change ***If weather permits the batting cages may extend the season by two weeks.

ASSESSMENTS & COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

TRASH TALK

Complying with trash pick-up times and storage can be an issue if you are not aware of the HRCA requirements.

When is my pick-up day?

When can I put my trash receptacles out on the street?

Where can I store them?

How do they have to be presented?

Highlands Ranch is divided into five trash pick-up zones regardless of your trash pick-up provider or belonging to a sub association that provides pick-up for you. If you have questions about your pick-up day, you can access the information on HRCA's website.

Trash receptacles follow the HRCA Residential Improvement Guidelines, section 2.84 Trash Containers, Enclosures, and Pick-up:

*Trash and recycling containers placed at the curb for pick-up should be secured with a tightly closed lid. Bags should be closed and tightly tied. Loose items must be placed in a container with a lid or in a closed bag to prevent debris and trash from being blown throughout the neighborhood. Please visit your trash provider’s website for any additional restrictions.

*The HRCA is broken down into five trash zones. Regardless of the provider, the trash days remain the same. Receptacles should not be placed on the street earlier than 7 p.m. the evening prior to the scheduled pick-up. Receptacles should be brought in after pick-up no later than 7 a.m. the following day.

*Trash receptacles are required to be stored out of view. This would either be in the garage or on the side of the home behind the fence line.

*Trash enclosures require HRCA Architecture Committee approval and shall comply with Fencing Guidelines for solid fencing, section 2.30 of the Residential Improvement Guidelines. Please ensure all the necessary information (noted on the submittal form) is available for review.

RESIDENTIAL IMPROVEMENT GUIDELINES (RIGS)

Highlands Ranch is a covenant-controlled community. This means that the Highlands Ranch Community Association is devoted to the preservation and upkeep of the community. The RIGS are a dual functioning document, that informs residents about what is required from a covenants perspective and an improvement perspective. These guidelines are upheld by the Architecture Committee and the Community Improvement Services Department.

NOW HIRING

Are you looking for a unique position, fun working environment and advancement opportunities? If so, the Highlands Ranch Community Association is the place for you. HRCA is always looking for hardworking, energetic people to fill our open positions.

Whether you’re looking for full-time, parttime or seasonal work, we have something for you. As an HRCA employee you could enjoy benefits such as insurance, paid time off, access to the facilities and much more!

Here are just a few of the departments that are hiring:

- Aquatics

- Backcountr y Wilderness Area

- Education

- Lifeguards

- Spor ts and Fitness

Visit HRCAonline.org/employment for a list of current positions and apply today!

ASSESSMENTS

9568 University Blvd.

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

303-471-8815

Anytime ownership or rental leases are agreed upon, a copy of the RIGS should be included in the closing documents. The RIGS are reviewed and adopted on an annual basis for changes so it is important that each resident has the most up-to-date documentation and is made aware of any changes that may be up for commentary.

assessments@hrcaonline.org

HRCAonline.org/Assessments

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT SERVICES (CIS)

9568 University Blvd.

Monday - Friday

8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

303-471-8821

covenant@hrcaonline.org

HRCAonline.org/Covenant

UPCOMING EVENTS

YOUR HEALTH WITH UCHEALTHSPORTS MEDICINE: SPRAINS & STRAINS

Are you an athlete, coach or fitness enthusiast looking to overcome the challenges of sprains and strains in your sports journey? Join us for an informative and practical webinar on Sports Medicine for Managing Sprains & Strains, presented by UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital. We'll equip you with the knowledge and tools to conquer these common athletic setbacks. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a professional athlete, this webinar serves as your playbook for success. Don't let sprains and strains hold you back. Join us to unlock the secrets of sports medicine and keep pushing your boundaries in the world of sports and fitness. Your journey to peak performance begins here!

• Wednesday, March 6

• 6 - 7 p.m.

• Registration is free, but required

• Zoom

ZIKR DANCE ENSAMBLE

Experience the rich tapestry of performances by the Zikr Dance Ensemble, featuring captivating dance rituals from diverse and ancient cultures. Their repertoire also includes original and contemporary expressions in dance and theater. For detailed program information please visit our website.

• Thursday, March 21

• 6:30 - 8 p.m.

• $20

• Southridge Recreation Center4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY 5K

Join in the festive spirit of the St. Patrick's Day 5K, a 3.1mile walk-jog taking place on Saturday, March 16. This family-friendly event welcomes both seasoned runners and beginners, offering a morning of fun, fitness and Irish cheer. Participants will receive a custom-themed race T-shirt, complimentary post-run pancake breakfast and beer (21+), and the chance to discover a hidden golden kettlebell on the course. The lucky finder will walk away with $100!

• Saturday, March 16

• 9 a.m.

• $55+ adults/$35 kids 12 & under

• Town Center - 9315 Dorchester St.

SPRING CRAFT BAZAAR

Spring is in the air and the Highlands Ranch Community Association's Spring Craft Bazaar is back! Visit with more than 100 vendors displaying and selling unique and highquality products. This one-of-a-kind marketplace will include photography, original art, sculpture, ceramics, specialty food, precious jewelry and gems and much more!

• Saturday, March 16

• 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• Free

• Eastridge Recreation Center - 9568 University Blvd.

COFFEE WITH A COPDECORATE AN EGG

Spring is just around the corner, so come and decorate an egg with our local Deputy Sheriffs! The Douglas County Sheriff’s Department is partnering with the Highlands Ranch Community Association to provide the community with the opportunity to have informal conversations with our county's law enforcement. These gatherings give residents and business owners a chance to connect with the deputies in a relaxed atmosphere. These events are free and great for all ages!

• Wednesday, March 27

• 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Free to attend

• Westridge Recreation Center9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

UPCOMING EVENTS

WINTER CULTURAL SERIES: RENÉ HEREDIA

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Flamenco with René Heredia, a prominent figure in the development of Flamenco guitar and dance in the United States. As an award-winning performer, teacher, choreographer, mentor, composer and recording artist, René brings a wealth of experience to this unforgettable evening. Don't miss the chance to witness the passion and artistry of Flamenco right here in Highlands Ranch!

• Thursday, March 28

• 6:30 - 8 p.m.

• $12

• Southridge Recreation Center - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

EASTER EGG HUNT

Hop over to Northridge Park for the annual Easter Egg Hunt! Children ages 1-9 are invited to join the fun and hunt for goodies. Don't miss a special appearance by the Easter Bunny—perfect for memorable photos. Arrive early as parking is limited, and the hunt begins promptly at 10 a.m. rain, snow or shine. This family event is free and promises a joyful start to your Easter celebration. We're egg-cited to see you there!

• Saturday, March 30

• 10 a.m.

• Free to attend

• Northridge Park - 8800 Broadway

SPRING BREAK CAMPS

Believe it or not, Spring Break is around the corner! What do you and your family plan to do March 18 - 22? HRCA is offering fun camps to suit a variety of ages and interests! For your outdoor enthusiasts, Camp Backcountry offers the opportunity to explore favorite spots in the fall, winter and spring. Our Snapology camps are a hit and include Kinderbots and Attackbots. Art for Life is running Jewelry Camp and Dragons, Fairies, Wizards and Elves Camp. We also have some room left in our cooking camps, Globe Trotting! For the tikes, we are hosting a Tuesday-Thursday pint size Creative Kids Camp! Find these camps online or call 303-471-8818 for more information.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Wednesday, April 3:

Your Health with UCHealth -A Journey into Brain Health and Dementia

Tuesday, April 16: Volunteer Fair

Thursday, April 18: Cur tain Call at the Mansion –Strictly Blues with Michael Friedman

Friday, April 24: Chamber Music Society of Greater Denver presents Out of Silence

SPRING FLING CO-ED DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT

Friday, April 26: Game Night

Sunday, April 28: Highlands Ranch Far mers' Market

Get ready to dive into the excitement at the upcoming Spring Fling Co-Ed Dodgeball Tournament! This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and have a blast in a friendly, yet competitive, environment. Form a team with at least six players, including a minimum of two female participants, and play this classic childhood game! Teams will have a minimum of four pool-play games, leading to a single-elimination tournament. This tournament is your chance to experience the fun of dodgeball like never before! Don't miss out – the registration deadline is Friday, March 15. Open to ages 15 and above.

• Friday, March 22

• 6-9 p.m.

• $160 per person

• Eastridge Recreation Center - 9568 University Blvd.

EVENTS

Check the website for the most current event information and to purchase tickets. All tickets are subject to service fees.

HRCAonline.org/Events

HRCAonline.org/Tickets

HRCA EVENT/WEATHER LINE 303-471-8888

CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

SAVE THE DATE! SWIM TEAM PARENT MEETING

Registration is now open for Seahawks Summer Swim Team. Join us for the parent meeting and new swimmer evaluations. Meet the coaches and get all the details.

• Saturday, April 13

- Last Names A-L: 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

- Last Names M-Z: 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

- Open 2:30-3 p.m.

• Northridge Recreation Center - 8800 Broadway

ADULT SPRING ART

SUMMER GROUP SWIM LESSONS

It's time to start planning for summer! Our May - August group swim lessons are now available for registration. Sign-up today to secure your spot!

• Indoor and outdoor pools

• Morning, afternoon and evening options available

• Monday - Saturday

As things begin to turn towards spring, now is the time to think of something that will help you grow! Try something new and enroll in one of our adult art classes this month. Modern Calligraphy is a class that runs March 4 - 25 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. on Mondays. Knitting runs on Thursdays, March 7 - 28, at a variety of times to suit your skill level. Adult Whimsy Seasonal Door Decore will run on Saturday, March 16, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., and Zen Doodling runs March 5 - 26 from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. If paint and paper are more your style, join Beginning Painting from 10 - 11:30 a.m. or 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, Beginning Drawing from 6:45 - 7:45 p.m. on Mondays, or Watercolor from 6 - 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. There are a variety of adult beginning pottery classes, so be sure to visit our website for a full list. For more information, please call 303-471-8853.

LOTS FOR TOTS!

• Eastridge Recreation Center9568 University Blvd.

This month, we have a diverse range of offerings for tots, ages 18 months - 6 years! Join our Princess Dress Up class for ages 3 - 6, featuring Princess Anna. Try Mad Scientist on Wednesday, March 13, where we will explore different science topics and get messy! Sibling Rivalry will have fun with Four Leaf Clovers, and Children’s Workshops themes include A Mission to Soak, Thunderbolts and Dinosaurs and I. Kreative Kids will explore Dr. Seuss this month, and Two Times the Fun will focus on Dr. Horton Hears a Who. Our Stepping Stones class, for those getting ready to start Preschool, will celebrate with Dr. Seuss's Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can you? We cannot wait to have you join us! For more information, please call 303-471-8818.

INSIDER LOOK AT CAMP BACKCOUNTRY STAFF

THREE BACKCOUNTRY WILDERNESS AREA PROGRAMS TO TRY THIS MONTH

Nature Walks (March 14 & 28): Fresh air and a scenic view make this jaunt to improve health and nature know-how a perfect way to spend your mid-morning. This hike, on the roads, is an adult-focused program at an adult pace.

Kids at Camp Backcountry spend 35 hours each week exploring in the outdoors. But, who are they spending those 35 hours with? As we hire our summer staff, and bring back many of Camp Backcountry's favorites, we dug in on what special humans make up our team of counselors. What we learned is at least seven returning staff members are professionals in a school setting or are studying at colleges to become educators. Head to our blog, Backcountry Field Notes, for an inside look at the adult leaders who make Camp Backcountry tick. For the full story, visit HRCAbackcountryblog.org.

Camp Backcountry Spring Break Camp (March 18 - 22): Enjoy the Backcountry Wilderness Area in the changing seasons at Nature and Horse camps. Depending on the weather, we’ll explore, hike, build forts and enjoy the campfire.

Saddle Club (March 27 & 28): Trade schoolbooks for riding boots. Saddle Club is an after-school horse focused class that will teach new skills each week. We'll work through groundwork (safety, grooming, breeds, anatomy), Western riding, English riding and health care.

CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

SOUTHRIDGE PICKLEBALL LESSONS!

Exercise, eating properly and seeing your physician regularly are the three keys to a healthy and strong body. The challenging part about exercise is doing it regularly. We all know there are thousands of excuses for not exercising, but the biggest one is that it just isn’t fun! This is where pickleball comes in. Of all the racket sports, pickleball fans say it’s the most fun you’ll ever have on a court! Why not dip your toe in the water with beginner lessons or bring your game up a notch with intermediate lessons taught by HRCA’s very own Pickleball Pro?

Southridge Recreation Center is offering lessons in six-week sessions beginning in April and registration is currently open! For more information on these Monday classes or to register today, call the Northridge Pavilion Sports Desk at 303-471-8996.

YOGA FOR ALL!

Practicing yoga offers a multitude of benefits for both the body and mind. Through a combination of physical postures, breathwork, and meditation, yoga enhances flexibility, strength and balance while simultaneously reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Regular practice can improve overall fitness, alleviate chronic pain, boost mood and enhance mental clarity and focus. Additionally, yoga encourages mindfulness and selfawareness, fostering a sense of inner peace and emotional well-being. Whether seeking physical health, mental harmony or spiritual growth, yoga provides a holistic approach to wellness that can benefit individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SPRING BREAK SPORTS CAMP

Join us for a Spring Break Sports Camp where participants will learn the skills necessary to play a variety of sports.

• Tuesday, March 19 - Thursday, March 21

• 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

• $60/$69

• Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION STRIDE TO RIDE CAMP

HRCA's Fitness Department offers over 30 yoga classes per week across the recreation centers. Come see the benefits of a yoga class for yourself! For more information, contact Hannah Yeager at hannah.yeager@hrcaonline.org with questions.

2024-25 PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION

Join us on Saturday, March 23, at Eastridge for Preschool Registration! Open spots will be posted on our website on Wednesday, March 20, and will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis. Registration will run from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. You can tour a classroom, visit with a teacher, and speak with the Director. We look forward to having your child join us for the new school year!

HIGHLANDS RANCH TAEKWONDO

Discover the many benefits of Taekwondo, where coordination, self-esteem, focus and respect are just the beginning! HRCA provides in-person classes at Northridge Rec Center and virtual options to cater to your preferences. Our classes accommodate all age groups, starting from 4-year-olds to adult, making Taekwondo a fantastic opportunity for the entire family. For more information, contact Patrick Gojan at patrick.gojan@hrcaonline.org or call 303-471-8869.

This program is dedicated to teaching individuals of all abilities two-wheeled balance and coordination. The price includes a Strider. If you already have a Strider, the cost will be reduced.

• Monday, March 18 - Friday, March 22

• 10 - 11 a.m.

• $220/$253

• Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION INDOOR SOCCER

Participants will learn the skills necessary to play soccer, focusing on good sportsmanship and teamwork.

• Wednesdays, March 6 - March 27

• 5:15 - 6 p.m.

• $55/$63

• Southridge - 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

9568 University Boulevard, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126

FACILITY CLOSURES

March 15 - 16

Eastridge basketball courts and track are closed for the Spring Craft Bazaar

March 30 Nor thridge Park is closed for Easter Egg Hunt.

April 1 - 6 Westridge Recreation Center will be closed for annual maintenance.

Check the website for the most up-to-date closure information.

MARCH EVENTS

For event details, visit page 5 or HRCAonline.org.

March 6 Your Health with UCHealthSports Medicine: Sprains & Strains

March 9

Princess Tea Party with Snow White and the Evil Queen

March 11 Board Working Session*

March 15 Cold Case and Cocktails (Sold Out)

March 16 St. Patrick's Day 5K Spring Craft Bazaar

March 19

March 21

March 22

March 27

March 28

March 30

Delegate & Board Meeting*

David Taylor's Zikr Dance Ensemble

Spring Fling Co-Ed Dodgeball Tournament

Coffee with a Cop - Decorate An Egg

Winter Cultural Series: René Heredia

Easter Egg Hunt

* These meetings are open to our members.

Postmaster: Time Sensitive Material. Please deliver by 2/29/24

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

The HRCA’s ability to bring events to Highlands Ranch is made possible in part by our Community Partners, the Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association (CAA), and the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD).