The View From Meridian Ranch...Page 3 The ie rom Meridian Ranch News from the DRC January brought warm temperatures with little to no moisture. Please remember when the temperatures

The View From Meridian RanchPage 1

Meridian Ranch Community Directory

MSMD Board of Directors:President:

Butch Gabrielski

Secretary/ Treasurer:Mike Fenton

Asst Secretary/ Treasurer:Tom SauerBill Gessner

Wayne Reorda

Newsletter AdvertisingPorchlink Media

[email protected]

720-295-2649

Newsletter SponsorThank you to Antler Creek Golf Course, CreekView

Grill, DRC No. 1 and DRC No. 2 for their sponsorship of

The View From Meridian Ranch!

Websiteswww.meridianranchmetro.org

www.meridianranch.comwww.stonebridgecoloradosprings.com

55I S S U E

F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 8

A publication of The Meridian Service

Metropolitan District

The View From

Meridian RanchMeridian Ranch Recreation Center

Resident Spotlight Alex Nastas

By Abigail Harlan

Alex Nastas, Meridian Ranch resident, stays busy between officer training school, being a dad to his two sons and a husband to his wife. Yet, that doesn’t mean he can’t find time to prioritize his health.

In the month of December, Nastas visited the Meridian Ranch Recreation Center more than anyone else in the community. In asking him what motivates him to exercise nearly every day, he says that it stems from his childhood.

“When I was younger, I was kind of chubby,” says Nastas. “My senior year I joined the wrestling team and went from 230 lbs to 195 lbs. I liked the way I felt, so I kept at it.”

Kept at it he has, with a total of 29 visits to the Recreation Center in December. Alex shared he typically works out three hours each day. He does cardio first thing in the morning and will add in some strength training. If he does two workouts a day, he will do a small amount of cardio in the afternoon and get in a good abdominal workout.

While Nastas may be in what many would consider competitive shape, he maintains, “I just want to be functional. I’m going to officer training school and I want to make sure I go there in my best (shape).”

Nastas isn’t the only one in his family who uses the Recreation Center. His two sons love to use the pool.

“They take swim lessons there, and are almost at the level to earn their green band. They also really like the lazy river,” he says.

Nastas believes the Recreation Center is just part of what makes Meridian Ranch a great community.

“It’s a nice, safe, growing community where everything is in reach. We have great neighbors, and it feels like we take care of each other.”

Repairs to the

Gym Roof and Floor Underway

The long awaited repairs to the Meridian Ranch Recreation Center gym roof and floor are being completed in time for the Daddy Daughter Dance on Feb. 10th!


Not intended to solicit currently-listed properties. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Source of data: Pikes Peak MLS.

Stay Updated ...Follow us on Facebook!facebook.com/[email protected] | 719.822.1981

“Chris was definitely the most motivated and proactive realtor I

have ever worked with. His tireless work and updates on the process of closing on our home were unmatched. He was also

extremely helpful with any questions about the home we had and literally anything we

needed. He made himself very flexible to help us out with

appointments and necessary meetings. We would highly

recommend using Chris as a realtor again in the future.” - JB

BEAT THE SPRING RUSH!! THERE ARE ONLY 7 RE-SALE HOMES ON THE MARKET IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD. THINKING OF

SELLING?? TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE EXTREMELY LOW INVENTORY!

$354,872 82 13.8%


News from the DRCJanuary brought warm temperatures with little to no moisture. Please remember when the temperatures reach 40 degrees or warmer it is nice to give the shrubs, trees and grass a drink of water. It is advised by professional landscapers to water approximately one minute per shrub and 2-3 minutes per tree. It is crucial to winter water your evergreens such as pine and spruce trees. Not watering can lead to plant damage. Please check out the CSU Extension website, http://extension.colostate.edu/docs/pubs/garden, for more information on preventing winter damage to your yard. Remember, front yards have a minimum requirement for trees and shrubs, and if you lose them to winter kill, then they will need to be replaced in the spring.

Once the plants have received a good watering, they will also appreciate getting mulch around them. Now is a good time to assess your hardscape and replenish the mulch on your property. Your plants will appreciate it too, as it helps keep the moisture in the ground. Replenish mulch beds with mulch that is natural in color, with no added pigment.

Are you new to Meridian Ranch? 2018 FAQ’s have been posted on the DRC website, www.meridianranchdrc.org, which provides information about all the entities which make the Meridian Ranch Community a wonderful place to live.

Meridian Ranch is governed by the Design Review Council ("DRC") that enforces the Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions for Meridian Ranch ("CC&R's") and the Meridian Ranch Design Guidelines. The DRC is not a homeowner’s association as the homeowners do not own common property within the community. The DRC is a nonprofit corporation which is governed under the Colorado Non- Profit Act.

Questions? Please contact your Meridian Ranch DRC Management Team:

Jamie Adams, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Managing Agent:

[email protected]

Julie Sampson, Governance Director: [email protected]

Chaylyn Petrik, Management Team Assistant: [email protected]

Homeowners’ Committee Report:The Meridian Ranch Homeowners’ Committee met on Jan. 4, 2018 at the Rec Center. The MSMD board meeting notes were reviewed and discussion topics included the following:

• Rec Center and classes offered

• Londonderry crosswalks

• Review of the Budget Fund totals

• Possible posting of instructions regarding upcoming Board member elections at the MSMD office at the Shops and also in the Meridian Ranch newsletter

• Categories of DRC Violations

• An Easy Reference Contact List and its inclusion in the new homeowner’s letter and possibly in the Meridian Ranch newsletter.

Bill Gessner and Wayne Reorda, Meridian Ranch residents and Board Members, were very helpful in answering questions and clarifying issues. The meeting lasted just over an hour. The Committee is still looking for members to represent each neighborhood in Meridian Ranch. All Meridian Ranch residents are welcome at the meetings.

The next meeting will be held on February 8th at 6:00 pm at the Rec Center

Stonebridge HOA Corner

STONEBRIDGE RESIDENTS: WE NEED YOU!

The Stonebridge Homeowners Association (HOA) would like input from homeowners. A good way to get involved is to become a Board member. If you are interested in being appointed to the Board, please submit your application, which can be found on the Stonebridge HOA website, www.stonebridgemrhoa.org: Go to the “Resources” tab and click “Board of Directors Application”, fill it out and send it to [email protected]. If you have any questions, please call Jamie at 719-685-7824.

The Stonebridge HOA oversees the implementation and enforcement of the CC & R’s and Design Guidelines for Stonebridge, as well owning and operating the Lodge at Stonebridge.

If you would like to reserve the Lodge at Stonebridge for a special event, please contact Karlona Dimoff at [email protected] or 719-685-8743.

Also, remember the Daily Burn is available for Stonebridge residents use in the yoga room. Check it out and have a great workout!

Your Stonebridge Management Team is here to assist you with any questions you may have:

Jamie Adams, CMCA, AMS, PCAM – Association Manager

[email protected]

Melonie Marshall, Management Team Assistant

[email protected]

Karlona Dimoff, Onsite Management Team Assistant

[email protected]

Main line to the Stonebridge Lodge is 719-694-8768.

For covenant or improvement questions, please contact the WMG office at 719-685-8743.

It’s that time again to vote for Antler Creek Golf Course in The Gazette’s

Best of the Springs Contest!

Visit gazette.com/bestof to cast your vote before February 18th.

Last year Antler Creek received the Bronze award and this year we are “Going for gold!”

We can't do it without you so please show us your love and

make sure your voice gets heard!

Antler Creek Golf Course

is Going for Gold in 2018!


Roberta LoughmanREALTOR®, MRP, REO, CSSP

LIC # 40034822

[email protected]

719-332-8083

Meridian Ranch Residentsince 2005

PikesPeakHomeGuide.com"Taking care of business means taking care of you!"

As a premier real estate agent in Colorado Springs, I’m here to provide you with all the resources and information you need to buy or sell real estate. I work with with buyers and sellers in Colorado Springs, Peyton, Monument, Castle Rock, Woodland Park and the surrounding areas. I’ve had extensive training in the latest real estate marketing strategies. I’m confident that I can offer you knowledge and tools most other agents can’t.

Contact me so I can keep you updated on the latest real estate activities in our community and answer any questions you may have. I look forward to assisting in all of your real estate needs!

2016 DISTINCTION ACHIEVEMENT Award Winner2015 NOMINEE BEST REALTOR GAZETTE BEST OF SPRINGS

2015 CIRCLE OF HONOR Award Winner2014 CIRCLE OF HONOR Award Winner2013 CIRCLE OF HONOR Award Winner2012 TOP GUN GRADUATE With Wings2012 CIRCLE OF HONOR Award Winner

Meridian Ranch Valentine’s Dance Saturday, February 10, 2018

5:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Meridian Ranch Recreation Center

DANCE

Father~Daughter Mother~Son

$15 per person

Dinner DJ Dancing FacePainting PhotoBooth Prizes BalloonTwisting

Come dance the night away with your daughter, son or grandchild and make memories they will never forget!

Event sponsored by Meridian Service Metro District for the residents of Meridian Ranch

For Reservations: Meridian Ranch Recreation Center—10301 Angeles Rd.—719.495.7119

Mon-Fri: 7:30am - 6pmSaturday: 8:30am - 2pmOr Leave in Drop Box 24/7Cleaning Green for Falcon!

Drive Thru

7356 McLaughlin Rd.

(719) 886-7200• Military Uniforms• Family Laundry:

Wash, Dry and Fold• Minor Alterations & Repairs• Wedding Dresses • Formals• Starched Shirts/Pants• Comforters • Sleeping Bags

Full ServiceDrycleaning PLUS

www.FalconDrycleaning.com

Between Meineke & Walgreens

Recognize your great neighbor and have them profiled in

The View From Meridian Ranch.

Send your nominations to [email protected] by the 15th of the preceding month.


Trash Pickup

DRC 1 & 2Homeowners contract with a local company. MSMD has negotiated a discount with Rocky Mountain Disposal.Stonebridge HOA Trash collection is included in HOA fee.

Streetlights

Report Outages to Mountain View ElectricMSMD & Homeowners

RepairsMountain View Electric

Landscaping

MSMDParks TrailsStreetscape Open SpaceDog StationsHomeownerYard and Right-of-Way

Streets/ Sidewalks/ Curbs

El Paso CountyMaintenance & Repairs: 719-520-6460

Parks Playground Equipment

MSMDMaintenance & Repairs

SnowplowingMSMDRec CenterTrails

El Paso CountyPublic StreetsHomeownerSideways and Driveways

DRC 1 & 2Warren ManagementGovernance and enforcement of Conditions, Cov-enants, & Restrictions (CC & R's). Billed annually.

Drainage

MSMD Ditches, Creeks, Ponds Homeowner Drainage to, on or off your property

Trash Pickup DRC 1 & 2Homeowners contract with a local company. MSMD has negotiated a discount with Rocky Mountain Disposal.Stonebridge HOATrash collection is included in HOA fee.

HomeownerProperty Maintenance

HomeownerMaintenanceDRC1ComplianceDRC2Compliance

Streetlights Report Outages to Mountain View Electric MSMD & Homeowners

Stonebridge HOACompliance

RepairsMountain View Electric

Rec Center Operations

YMCARec Center OperationsYMCA Team SportsAquatics ProgramsChildwatch

Landscaping MSMDCommon Areas TrailsParks Open SpaceStreetscape Dog StationsHomeownerResidential Lawn

Rec Center Maintenance

MSMDRepairs & MaintenanceYMCADaily Cleaning

Streets / Sidewalks / Curbs

El Paso CountyMaintenance & Repairs719-520-6460

Wastewater Treatment Ponds @ Stapleton and Meridian Ranch Blvd.

Woodmen Hills Metro District719-495-2500

Parks Playground Equipment

MSMDRepairs & Maintenance

New Construction Debris & Vacant Lots

Builders / Developerhttp://meridianranchmetro.org/contactinfo.php

Snowplowing MSMDCommon AreasRec CenterLodgeEl Paso CountyPublic StreetsHomeownerSidewalks and Driveways

Billing Water/Sewer/Rec. Ctr./Street LightsCRS719-495-5152Stonebridge HOAWarren ManagementDRC 1 & 2Warren Management

DRC 1 & 2 Warren ManagementGovernance and enforcement of Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC & R's). Billed annually.

Stonebridge HOA Warren ManagementGovernance and enforcement of Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC & R's). Billed monthly.

Drainage MSMDDitches, Creeks, PondsHomeownerDrainage to, on or off your property

12/15/2017

Warren ManagementJamie Adams / Melonie Marshall1720 Jet StreamColorado Springs, CO phone: 719-685-8727website: www.meridianranchdrc.orgemail: [email protected]

YMCAAbigail Harlan and Dane Leecyphone: 719-495-7119website: http://ppymca.org/locations/resident-only/meridianranch

Who does it?

Meridian Service Metro District (MSMD)11886 Stapleton Drphone: 719-495-6567website: www.MeridianRanchMetro.orgemail: http://meridianranchmetro.org/contactinfo.php

Community Resource Services (CRS) 7995 E. Prentice Ave, Ste 103-EGreenwood Village, CO 80111phone: 719-495-5152email: [email protected] bill online: https://remote.crsofcolorado.com/ubs12/index.html

Who does it? Homeowner Property Maintenance

Homeowner Maintenance DRC1 Compliance DRC2 ComplianceStonebridge HOACompliance

Rec Center Operations

YMCA Rec Center Operations, YMCA Team Sports Aquatics Programs, Childwatch

Rec Center Maintenance

MSMDRepairs & Maintenance YMCA Daily Cleaning

Wastewater Treatment Ponds@ Stapleton & Meridian Ranch Blvd.

Woodmen Hills Metro District719-495-2500

New Construction Debris & Vacant Lots

Builders / Developer [email protected]

Billing

Water/Sewer/Rec. Ctr./Street Lights CRS: 719-495-5152 Stonebridge HOA Warren Management DRC 1 & 2 Warren Management

Stonebridge HOA

Warren ManagementGovernance and enforcement of Conditions, Covenants, & Restrictions (CC & R's). Billed monthly.

Meridian Service Metro District (MSMD) 11886 Stapleton Dr Phone: 719-495-6567 Website: www.MeridianRanchMetro.org Email: http://meridianranchmetro.org/contactinfo.php

Warren Management Jamie Adams / Melonie Marshall 1720 Jet Stream Colorado Springs, CO Phone: 719-685-8727 Website: www.meridianranchdrc.org Email: [email protected]

Community Resource Services (CRS) 7995 E. Prentice Ave, Ste 103-E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 719-495-5152 Email: [email protected] Pay bill online: https://remote.crsofcolorado.com/ubs12/in-dex.html

YMCA Abigail Harlan and Dane Leecy Phone: 719-495-7119 Website: http://ppymca.org/locations/resident-only/meridian-ranch

Porchlink Media is

proud to publish

your newsletter!

To place a display or business services ad:

Please contact: Kerri Watts [email protected] 720-295-2649


Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday1

AOA Pinochle12:30 pm

EVERY Thursday, Kids eat for Free w/ a paying adult

Dine –in only at the CreekView Grill4:00 - 8:00 pm

2AOA Lunch Out

1:00 pm

Parents Night Out5:30 – 10:00 pm

3

4Super Bowl LII

5 Swim Lessons Start

6Swim Team Prep Start

7 8 AOA Mexican Train

Dominos12:30 pm

Homeowner’s Committee Meeting

@Rec Center6:00 pm

9 10Meridian Ranch

Father - DaughterMother - Son

Dance5:00 – 7:30 pm

11 12 13 14Valentine's Day

Quilting Club5:00 – 8:00 pm

15 AOA Pinochle

12:30 pm

16 Parents Night Out5:30 – 10:00 pm

17

18 19Presidents Day

No School

Rec Center Pool Hours

5:30 am – 7:50 pm

20 21 22 AOA Mexican Train

Dominos12:30 pm

23 24

25 26 27 28Quilting Club

9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Quilting Club5:00 – 8:00 pm

EVERY Wednesday is Ladies Night @ the CreekView Grill from 4 pm until Close

EVERY Thursday, Kids eat for Free w/ a paying adult. Dine-in only at the CreekView Grill

February 2018

Winter Garden Tips (Too Much) Salt and Plants, a Bad CombinationWe are approaching the time when icy streets and sidewalks may again make walking and driving hazardous. Ice melting products can help keep us safe, however these products vary in their ice melting abilities and safety to nearby plants. There are 5 main materials that are used as deicers:

Calcium chloride is the traditional ice-melting product. Though it will melt ice to minus 25 degrees F, it will form slippery, slimy surfaces on concrete and other hard surfaces. Plants are not likely to be harmed unless excessive amounts are used. It is fast acting and more effective than rock salt. This product can damage grass and plants if over applied.

Rock salt is sodium chloride and is the least expensive material available. It is effective to approximately 20 degrees F, but can damage soils, plants, metals, and paving surfaces.

Magnesium chloride is effective down to minus 13 degrees F, and is more effective than sodium chloride. (This, and the next 2 products, can also damage plants if over-applied.)

Potassium chloride is effective down to 25 degrees.

Urea is a fertilizer that is sometimes used to melt ice. Though it is only about 10% as corrosive as sodium chloride, it can contaminate ground and surface water with nitrates. Urea is effective down to 10 degrees F, but works better between 25-30 degrees F.

Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA), a newer product, is made from dolomitic limestone and acetic acid (the principal compound of vinegar). CMA works differently than the other materials in that it does not form brine like salt, but rather helps prevent snow particles from sticking to each other on surfaces. It has little effect on plant growth, but can damage concrete surfaces. Less corrosive than chloride products, be aware that performance decreases below 20 degrees F.


FRENCH ONION SOUP Ingredients

• 4 pounds yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced (approximately 5-6 large onions)

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons flour

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 6 cups of beef stock

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

• 1 bay leaf

• 3 sprigs of thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

• a few generous pinches of salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• baguette

• grated cheese (Gruyere, Asagio, Swiss, or Mozzarella)

DirectionsIn a large heavy-bottomed stockpot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.

Add the onions and sauté until well browned and caramelized (but not burnt), about 30-40 minutes, stirring every few minutes.

Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Stir in the wine to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.

Add the stock, Worcestershire sauce (optional), bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for at least 10-15 minutes, partially-covered.

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Discard the bay leaf and sprigs of thyme.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. While the soup is simmering, slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and arrange them in single layer on baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes, until the bread is toasted and golden around the edges. Remove and set aside.

Switch the oven to the broiler. When ready to serve the soup, top with a baguette slice and your desired amount of cheese. Place on an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat and broil for 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove and serve immediately.

FRENCH ONION SOUP

Ingredients • 4 pounds yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced (approximately 5-6 large

onions) • 3 tablespoons butter • 4 cloves garlic, minced • 3 tablespoons flour • 1/2 cup dry white wine • 6 cups of beef stock • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional) • 1 bay leaf • 3 sprigs of thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) • a few generous pinches of salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • baguette • grated cheese (Gruyere, Asagio, Swiss, or Mozzarella)

Directions

In a large heavy-bottomed stockpot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.

Add the onions and sauté until well browned and caramelized (but not burnt), about 30-40 minutes, stirring every few minutes.

Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Stir in the wine to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.

Add the stock, Worcestershire sauce (optional), bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for at least 10-15 minutes, partially-covered.

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Discard the bay leaf and sprigs of thyme.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. While the soup is simmering, slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and arrange them in single layer on baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes, until the bread is toasted and golden around the edges. Remove and set aside.

Switch the oven to the broiler. When ready to serve the soup, top with a baguette slice and your desired amount of cheese. Place on an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat and broil for 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove and serve immediately.

with

Chef Pinto SUPER BOWL

Specials start at 4:00pm

Game at 4:30pm SUN. FEB4TH

Bucket of Beers $10

$1 Domestic Draft Beer

$5 Food specials include:

Wings, Potato Skins, Three Amigos Sliders

Q: What do snowmen eat for lunch?

A: Iceburgers!

Q: What two letters of the alphabet do snowmen prefer?

A: I.C.!

Q: What happened when the icicle landed on the snowman’s head?

A: It knocked him out cold!

Q: How do snowmen greet each other?

A: Ice to meet you!

Q: What is a snowman’s favorite drink?

A: Iced tea!

Q: Why was the snowman’s dog called Frost?

A: Because Frost bites!

Q: What did Frosty’s girlfriend give him when she was mad at him?

A: The cold shoulder!

Q: Who are Frosty’s parents?

A: Mom and Pop-sicle!

Q: Who is Frosty’s favorite aunt?

A: Aunt Arctica!

Q: What do you get when you cross Frosty with a baker?

A: Frosty the Dough-man!

Kids Riddles: Snowmen


Advertise in the March issue of The View From Meridian Ranch

Deadline: February 15, 2018To place a display or Business Service ad:

Please contact: [email protected] or 720-295-2649

Ad SizeBlack & White

Pricing per month

Color Pricing per

month

1/6 page $80 $1151/4 page $120 $1701/3 page $185 $2101/2 page $225 $270

Manager’s Message, February 2018We sometimes get requests from residents to fly our flags at half-staff in honor of the passing of some local law enforcement officer or other notable person. However, only the President of the United States can order the lowering of the American flag and only the President or Governor can order the lowering of the State flag. District personnel receive automated email

messages whenever the President makes such an order. Only then will we lower our flags to half-staff.

According to USClimateData.com, the average snowfall in Colorado Springs during December is 6 inches, and the average snowfall in January is 6 inches. During December, 2017 we saw only 2 days of snow totaling less than 1 inch. At the time of this article, it has not yet snowed in January and there is no forecast of snow in January.

Occasional winter watering during a warm spell is recommended, especially for grass and immature trees. Using a hose to hand water will avoid having to drain irrigation systems again before the next freeze. Remember to disconnect and drain the hose after watering. You may notice the District’s landscape contractors performing mid-winter watering in parks and open spaces in Meridian Ranch.

Please remember that snow and ice conditions will likely occur later this winter and early spring and you should make appropriate preparations. Every year the District experiences damage to landscaping and irrigation systems when impatient drivers go outside the roadway to pass vehicles stranded in snow (especially on Londonderry Drive

near the Recreation Center). Driving outside the roadway is illegal and the damage to our landscaped grounds is expensive. If you witness this happening, please report the vehicle license number and description of the driver.

Finally, please keep your children away from frozen ponds – they are extremely unsafe.

David A. Pelser, General Manager, Meridian Service Metropolitan District

New Tax LawsIf it’s likely you’ll either purchase or sell real estate in the 2018 calendar-year, or you’re a current homeowner, you may be wondering how the newly enacted tax laws might impact you. We’ve assembled a few basic Q&A items, in order to address some of the most common questions:

Q: As a current homeowner, will I still be able to deduct the mortgage interest on my primary residence?

A: For homes purchased after December 14, 2017, the new laws limit deductibility of mortgage interest to the first $750,000 of debt attributed to the purchase of your home. For homes purchased prior to this date and under the old laws, interest on debt of up to $1m may still be deductible.

Q: In 2018 I plan to take out a home equity loan to make improvements to my primary residence. Can I still deduct this interest?

A: The new tax laws specifically prohibit a tax deduction for interest on home equity lines.

Q: Will I still be able to deduct the property taxes I pay during 2018?

A: Yes, within limits. The new tax laws prohibit total deductions in excess of $10,000 for state and local taxes paid, which include income taxes, and personal property taxes such as real estate, and automobile taxes. Any related taxes paid in excess of the $10,000 threshold, are non-deductible in 2018.

Q: If I sell my primary residence in 2018, will I be taxed?

A: Unlikely, if meeting the IRS guidelines for ownership and use set forth in IRC sec. 121. The exclusion of gain for individuals of $250k and $500k for married couples remains intact for 2018.

Q: I pre-paid an estimate of my 2017 real estate property taxes on December 31, 2017, prior to being assessed by my county. Can I deduct this on my 2017 income tax returns?

A: Generally, a tax deduction for federal purposes is allowable when a few criteria are met: 1) The taxpayer has been made aware in writing, of the liability (in other words, assessed); 2) The assessment and corresponding tax payment both occurred during the 2017 calendar-year.

Q: I am an employee, and required to maintain a home office. How will my home office deductions be impacted for 2018?

A: Under the new 2018 laws, no deduction for employee-related expenses will be allowed. This includes home office expenses properly claimed through the 2017 tax-year. We would suggest discussing a possible reimbursement plan, with your employer.

Every tax situation is different, and we recommend seeking out professional advice tailored to your circumstances.

By John Lillis, EA, Lillis & Company – Public Accountants


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Some products and services not available in all areas.

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11605 Meridian Market ViewFalcon, CO 80831Bus: 719-495-9515

NMLS #139716, NMLS MLO #1455164MLO License #100506715

Love is in the air!

You and your Sweetheart are invited to a Valentine’s Day Dinner at CreekView Grill.

Wednesday, February 14th

4:00-8:00pm S A L A D Beet Salad

White Grape Juice Poached California Beets over Mixed Greens, Goat Cheese, Cherry Tomatoes, English Cucumber, drizzled with Grape Vinaigrette

S O U P Tomato Basil

Homemade with fresh Tomatoes and fresh Basil

E N T R E É Stuffed Chicken - Free Range Chicken Breast topped with Sun-dried Tomatoes,

Baby Spinach, Gouda Cheese, Prosciutto served with Angel Hair Pasta finished with a Basil Alfredo Sauce

$16.95

Grilled New York Steak - Grilled 10 oz. N.Y Steak topped with a Baby Porto-bello Mushroom Demi Sauce, Served with fresh Rosemary Baby Red Potatoes

and fresh Vegetables

$21.95

Shrimp Kabobs - House made Shrimp Kabobs with Mushrooms, Peppers, On-ions over Beef Fried Rice and finished a Sweet Chili Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce

$18.95

VALENTINE’S DINNER

For reservations call 719.494.1900 ext. 2

Love is in the air!









$16.95



$21.95


$18.95



Love is in the air!









$16.95



$21.95


$18.95




The Teen Services Listing is for the convenience of Meridian Ranch residents and is not a service of, nor endorsed by Porchlink Media, LLC or Meridian Service Metropolitan District/Meridian Ranch Metropolitan District. Neither Porchlink nor the Districts make any warranties or representations concerning any of the listings. By using the Teen Services Listing, you assume full responsibility for performing your own due diligence to ensure any individual you choose to work with meets your requirements. Teens wishing to have their services listed must have their parents submit a request. The Districts reserve the right, in its sole discretion, to reject any listing that appears discriminatory, unethical, or inappropriate for a Teen Services Listing.

B&W

NO NEED TO LOOK ELSEWHERE...FIND THE HELP YOU NEED!

FIND THEM IN THIS PUBLICATION!

localQUALITY BUSINESSESWORKING IN MERIDIAN RANCH

1

2

SUPPORT THOSE WHOSUPPORT YOUR NEWSLETTER!

TEEN LISTINGSHAVE BEEN REMOVED


Firefighters Remind Residents to Stay

Off the Ice!In mid-December, Falcon firefighters

witnessed kids playing on an ice-covered pond in the Meridian Ranch area. By the time the crew returned to the pond everyone had left, but footprints and tracks from bicycle tires remained on the snow-covered surface of the pond. There was also evidence that someone had tried to chop a hole in the ice away from the shore. All of this occurred despite signs warning people to keep off the ice. While no one had to be rescued that day, this story could easily have ended with a needless tragedy. In January 2016, two teenagers died after falling into a frozen retention pond in Parker, Colorado.

El Paso County has a number of natural and manmade lakes and ponds. However, unlike other places in the country, the ice that forms here is typically not thick enough to walk on or skate on, even late in the winter. Falcon firefighters train in ice rescue techniques, but those are skills they would rather not have to use.

Firefighters are asking parents to teach their children to stay off outdoor ice, and talk to them about the dangers of playing on or near iced-over water. Once a person falls into icy water, hypothermia sets in quickly and muscle control is lost. Permanent injury and even death can occur.

Keep these ice safety tips in mind.

• Ice in Colorado is deceptive and cannot bejudged strictly by its appearance. Just because itlooks safe does not mean that it is.

• Beware of ice covered with snow, since snowcan actually insulate ice from cold air andprevent it from freezing solid.

• Keep pets leashed when near an ice-coveredpond so they cannot chase geese or otheranimals onto thin ice.

• If a pet runs onto ice or falls through it, do notfollow. Call for help.

Stay connected with the Falcon Fire Protection District:

Website: www.falconfirepd.org Facebook: @FalconFireDepartment

Twitter: @FalconFireDept

Meridian Service Metro District

2018 Dates To Remember*FEBRUARY 2 Parent's Night Out 10 Daddy Daughter, Mother Son Dance 16 Parent's Night Out

MARCH2 Parent's Night Out 16 Parent's Night Out 17 Flick n Float 4:15 pm19 & 21 Mini Camp - Sports 24 Underwater Easter Egg Hunt 27 & 29 Mini Camp - Super Heroes 28 Aquatics Camp - Olympics

APRIL6 Parent's Night Out 14 Flick n Float 20 Parent's Night Out 21 Healthy Kids Day

MAY4 Parent's Night Out 18 Parent's Night Out 19 Flick n Float 27 Summer Luau 27 Outdoor Pool Opens

JUNE2 Sky Sox Night 4 Farmers Market 11 Farmers Market 15 Parent's Night Out 16 Community Garage Sale Day 16 Community Clean Up Day** 16 Movie on the Range 18 Farmers Market 18 & 19 Dumpsters available for residents** 23 Flick n Float 25 Farmers Market 30 Falcon Freedom Days

*All dates are subject to change** Communication will be from your DRC

JULY2 Farmers Market 9 Farmers Market16 Farmers Market 18 & 20 Mini Camp - World Cup 20 Parent's Night Out 21 Movie on the Range 23 Farmers Market28 End of Summer Flick n Float Bash 25 & 27 Mini Camp - Mad Science 30 Farmers Market

AUGUST2 Concerts in the Park - Wendy Woo 6 Farmers Market 13 Farmers Market 16 Concerts in the Park - Dotsero 17 Parent's Night Out 20 Farmers Market 27 Farmers Market

SEPTEMBER3 Last Day Outdoor Pool is Open 21 Parent's Night Out

OCTOBER5 Parent's Night Out 8 & 10 Mini Camp - Time Travelers 19 Parent's Night Out11 & 18 Mini Camp - Under the Sea 15 & 17 Mini Camp - Inventors Workshop 27 Trunk or Treat

NOVEMBER2 Parent's Night Out16 Parent's Night Out19 & 21 Mini Camp - Art

DECEMBER1 Tree Lighting & Cookies with Santa 7 Parent's Night Out 10 & 11 Holiday Lights Contest Judging** 21 Parent's Night Out

11886 Stapleton Dr. | www.meridianranchmetro.org | 719.495.6567

High Tea at Glen Eyrie Castle By Roberta Loughman

The perfect way to enjoy an afternoon of enchantment and history! Served in the Castle Music Room.

Glen Eyrie is an English Tudor-style castle built by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs. There are 17 guest rooms in the castle, as well as 4 meeting rooms, 2 dining rooms and 24 fireplaces. The castle was advanced for its time, featuring a primitive intercom system, and a chimney system that would hold the smoke until the wind was blowing in the right direction to take the smoke out of the valley. Glen Eyrie is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The castle is now owned by The Navigators. The general public is allowed on its grounds Monday through Thursday (9-4) to visit its bookstore, located at the Carriage House. Tours of Glen Eyrie Castle are available to the public and require an advance reservation.

Glen Eyrie Conference Center is located at 3820 North 30th Street in Colorado Springs, CO 80904. Their website is https://gleneyrie.org/ and the phone number is 1-800-944-4536.


Porchlink Media, LLC6525 Gunpark Dr. #370-133Boulder, CO 80301

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

PAIDDENVER CO

PERMIT 2897

If you walked all 18 holes of Antler Creek Golf

Course you would walk approximately 10 miles.

Did you know...

Going For Gold in 2018! Be sure to go to thebestofthesprings.com/ and show your love for Antler Creek Golf Course in the Sports & Recreation Category.

A-List Prime Membership Unlimited Golf any day Includes Shared Cart 1 Range Token per day Receive a 25% discount on logo

merchandise Invited to participate in A-List only

tournaments. Non-Prime membership level available

A-List PRIME $165/month (Single)

$230/month (Couple) $260/month (Family)

A-List NON-PRIME $125/month (Single)

$175/month (Couple) $200/month (Family)

For more information call or visit (719) 494-1900 ext. 1 ~ AntlerCreekGolf.com

GOLF MEMBERSHIPS

V A L E N T I N E ’ S D I N N E R

719.494.1900 ext 2

You and your sweetheart are invited to a Valentine’s Day Dinner at CreekView Grill!

Wednesday February 14th 4:00-8:00pm

Documents

The View From Meridian Ranch...Page 3 The ie rom Meridian Ranch News from the DRC January brought warm temperatures with little to no moisture. Please remember when the temperatures