Oak Forest Plantation

PLAYGROUND VANDALIZED

2012-02-07T05:03:00.000-08:00

Recently the Oak Forest playground behind the pool was vandalized. Pieces of the play structure were kicked out and broken. The repair for this is costly and parts are not readily available. Please do not use the playground until further notice. The Board is planning a refurbishment and addition to the playground area but not if the vandalism continues. If you see people loitering in the area please call the North Charleston Police Department non emergency so they can go by and remove the individuals.

ANNUAL ASSESSMNT PAYMENT OPTIONS

2012-01-09T19:33:00.001-08:00

2012 assessment notices were mailed in December. Please note the amount due shown on the statement is $187.50. The actual 2012 annual assessment total is $375.00. The statement shows this different amount for owners to have the option of splitting the assessment into two payments if they need to. However, if you choose to split the payment there will be a convenience fee in the amount of $30.00 assessed on the second payment. To avoid the convenience fee please pay $375.00 in full by January 1st, 2012 with late fees applying on January 30th if the payment has not posted to the account.

To reiterate:

2012 Oak Forest Annual assessment is $375.00.
Option 1- Pay in full by January 1, amount due $375.00.
Option 2- Pay half of the assessment by January 1- amount due $187.50.
Second half due April 1, 2012- amount due $217.50 which includes the convenience fee.

If you have any questions please contact the Community Management office at 843-795-8484. There are several payment options online at www.cmgcharleston.com.

PRE-PAY YOUR 2012 ASSESSMENTS NOW!

2011-10-04T14:29:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can pre-pay your assessments for 2012. The Board of Directors are busy working on budgets right now and are doing there absolute best to keep assessments in the community at the same rate as 2011 or with as little increase as possible. The common concern heard when the assessment is due in January is: "This really stinks to pay right after the holiday." Unfortunately that's when it is due. You can avoid that cash shock or shortage whatever you prefer to call it by paying your assessment in advance. You can safely assume it will be the same as last year so paying that amount right now or over the next three months is better than getting hit with the entire amount January 1. You would only have to pay the difference, if any, on January 1 and if you overpay, a credit can be refunded or left on the account for next year. Its an option to consider before the holidays are upon you. Please visit the the Community Management Group website at http://www.cmgcharleston.com/ to make a payment or set up a reoccurring payment for the next three months. If you have a question regarding this please do not hesitate to contact me.

SCHOOL IS BACK IN FULL SWING SO PLEASE DRIVE SAFE!

2011-09-06T08:24:00.001-07:00

Now that all the county schools are back in session, please be cautious while driving through the community.... Here are some simple reminders for drivers:
Slow down and be especially alert in the residential neighborhoods and school zones
Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs
Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully
Watch for children on and near the road in the morning and after school hours
Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Put down your phone and don’t talk or text while driving

Reminder for your kids:
They should cross the street with an adult until they are at least 10 years old
Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks
Never run out into the streets or cross in between parked cars
Make sure they always walk in front of the bus where the driver can see them

PLEASE, add to the list a reminder to speak to your kids about not leaving trash behind at the bus stops.

HURRICANE PREP TIPS

2011-08-03T03:47:00.000-07:00

Hurricane season is in full swing. Please visit our website page www.CMGCharleston.com/storms.htm for information about storm preparation.

OVERFLOW PARKING AT THE POOL

2011-06-28T04:47:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed the new signs posted at the pool regarding the parking of vehicles in the lot. The Board encourages owners to utilize the pool parking area for overflow guests but the area is not to be used for long term parking. If you need to park a boat, trailer or RV up there please notify the office of the type of vehicle you need to park up there and the time frame for which it will be parked there to avoid having your vehicle towed. Parking at the amenity center is at your own risk. Although there has been no reports of theft or vandalism please be sure to lock your vehicle up there and remove all valuables.

Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!

NEW POOL MONITOR IN PLACE

2011-06-13T19:46:00.000-07:00

The new pool monitor for Oak Forest started on Memorial Day weekend. The big concern last year at the pool was that people who do not live in the community were accessing the area by jumping the fence or tail-gating people through the gate, and unfortunately by other people in the pool area in. The Board listened to the community and now have a part time pool monitor on site several days per week and on the weekends.

The pool monitor will be checking key fobs and pool registration as you enter the gate. If your account is current and you have you information in the book. If not please contact me at the office 843-795-8484 ext. 304. The pool monitor will not take payments from owners at the pool. He also has the authority to ask you to leave for infractions of the Oak Forest pool rules.

If you have any questions please give me a call.

ANNUAL MEETING JUNE 7th

2011-05-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

Please be reminded the Annual meeting for Oak Forest is scheduled for June 7th, 6:30 pm at Fort Dorchester Elementary School. You should have received the annual meeting notice in the mail which included an Agenda, a Proxy and a candidate form. If you are interested in one of the open Board positions please submit the candidate information as soon as possible. Please return your proxy as well whether you plan to attend or not so quorum can be met. 187 in person or by proxy are required in order to hold the meeting. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Terri Barry @tbarry@cmgcharleston.com

POOL OPENS APRIL 30th

2011-04-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

The pool will open April 30th. There has been much activity up at the amenity center the last few weeks. The pool building trim and awnings have been cleaned and painted as well as the pergola on the deck. New furniture has been purchased to complete the phasing out of the old plastic chairs. The front access gate has been raised from 4' to 6' foot to deter those people who have been setting their kids over the gate for access or others jumping the gate. Wireless access for your lap tops will be available and more information is to follow on this.

After school is out a pool monitor will be in place to check owners accessing the pool to be sure they are Oak Forest residents and that their assessments are current.

Please be reminded children under 14 cannot use the pool without an adult. Additionally they are not allowed to bring younger siblings or friends with them to the pool.

ANYONE CAUGHT WITH GLASS IN THE POOL WILL FACE IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION OF THEIR POOL PRIVILEGES

OAK FOREST COMMUNITY YARD SALE

2011-03-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

The Oak Forest Community yard sale had been scheduled for April 16th. 7 am- till your done! You can bring your items up to the pool or set up in your own driveway. An ad will run in the Post & Courier. So clean out those garages, closets and attics and make some green!

SPRING CLEANING TIME

2011-03-15T18:03:00.001-07:00

We all welcome the spring weather but before its warm enough to green up the grass the lovely weeds spring up in lawns. The violation inspector will be ramping up the lawn care notices as well as power washing on the exterior of the homes. Take measures to remove weeds from your lawn and clean out dead plant material in your landscape beds, freshen your mulch and pick up those dead leaves.

Inspect the exterior of your home for that pesky green and black algae so prevalent here in the humid south. Unfortunately with power washing you may even have to clean it again in the fall.

Avoid that violation notice and get a head start on those outdoor chores.

OVERNIGHT STREET PARKING PROHIBITED

2011-03-01T18:28:00.000-08:00

Please be reminded vehicles are not permitted to park on the street overnight between the hours of 11 am and 6 pm. Parking on the street causes a dangerous situation if emergency vehicles need to access your home or one in the neighborhood but cannot get through because of your car/truck on the street. Please be a good neighbor and park all vehicles in the garage, driveway or have your guests park in the amenity center parking lot.

FLOWER PLANTERS WANTED

2011-02-16T09:46:00.000-08:00

If you have a green thumb and enjoy digging in the dirt, volunteers are needed to plant flowers at the monuments in April. Please contact me at 843-795-8484 ext 304 if your are interested in participating.

Pool committee volunteers are also needed.

SPRING IS AROUND THE CORNER

2011-02-01T19:00:00.001-08:00

Cold weather got you down? Don't despair, spring is around the corner. The Board of Directors recently met and discussed plans for new pool furniture to phase out the remaining old brittle plastic lounge chairs, sitting benches by the pond, new lighting at the monuments, picnic tables in the field by the pool and many other items budgeted for 2011.

Plans have also been made to refurbish or replace many of the street signs in the community starting with those in Pebble Creek and Oak Forest. Some are warped and need to be replaced and some only need the paint touched up.

Look for the first newsletter of 2011 in early to mid March. If you have any information or and want to run an ad please contact the Community Management office.

HOLIDAY DECORATIONS NEED TO BE REMOVED

2011-01-18T20:21:00.000-08:00

Please be reminded all holiday decorations and lights should be removed from the exterior of the home. The general rule is decorations must be removed within 30 days after the holiday has passed. The Covenants enforcement department with Community Management Group will be touring the communities and notices will be sent.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AND OTHER REMINDERS

2011-01-05T10:03:00.001-08:00

Please be reminded your holiday lights and decorations must be removed no later than January 25th to avoid receiving a notice to remove these items from the house and yard.

Did your kids get a new basketball goal for the holidays. These must be used in the driveway at least 10' from the street. The CANNOT be used in the street and North Charleston code enforcement will be called if they are. Basketball goals may be stored at the top of the driveway only or behind the home.

Please secure your trash and recyclables on pick up days. Trash blows through the community and ends up in the street drains, then into the ponds which look horrible.

The Board is still looking for volunteers for the Pool Committee, a Garden Committee and a Social Committee.

Please contact the office if you are interested.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

2010-12-22T07:20:00.001-08:00

Thank you to Brenda Burdine and her husband Paul for decorating all the entrances for the Holidays.

Congratulations to the October yard of the month winner. 9668 South Carousel and to the Holiday light winner 9602 North Carousel. The Board of Directors would like to thank these people for their dedication to their property and their holiday spirit!

Please be alert this holiday season. Recently a women was going door to door in the Birkdale area after dark. This individual claimed to be selling different items at different homes. Two men in a white van were in the vicinity where this women was knocking on doors. The police were called and responded and asked the individuals to leave the area. Please call the police for any suspicious activity in the community.

Happy Holidays to everyone. See you next year!

2011 ASSESSMENT STATEMENTS MAILED

2010-12-07T18:01:00.000-08:00

Residents will be receiving their 2011 assessment statements in the mail over the next few days. The annual assessment this year is $375.00. Payment is due January 1st, 2011.

Owners have the option of either paying the $375.00 in full by January 1st or the option of making two payments with an additional $30 convenience fee added. If you choose the payment option the first payment of $202.50 is due on January 1st, 2011 and the second payment of $202.50 will be due on April 1st.

Payment must be posted to your account by the 30th to avoid late fees being assessed.

You can pay your assessment in several ways: 1) Send your payments to the Columbia lockbox at Post Office Box 912, Columbia, SC 29202; 2) Go online to http://www.cmgcharleston.com/ and select “pay assessments”, you will need your account number for this option, which can be found on your statement, if you have not already setup your account. Make all checks payable to Oak Forest Village Homeowners Association.

Please do not mail payments to the management office at 349 Folly Road. Payments received in the office can take an additional five days to process which could result in late fees being assessed.

HOLIDAY SAFTEY TIPS AND CRIME PREVENTION

2010-11-23T18:31:00.000-08:00

As the Thanksgiving and Christmas season approaches, the North Charleston Police Department wishes to assure you and your neighbors that we are taking measures to combat and prevent the normal increase in criminal activity which occurs this time each year. We also wish to stress the importance of citizens doing their part to protect themselves by not presenting opportunity-criminals with the chance to ruin your holiday. Additional officers will be on high-visibility patrol around shopping areas, banks, and the like. They will also be available to provide bank escorts for businesses that request them. A particular problem this time of year is theft from automobiles and residential burglaries. These are the most preventable crimes. If citizens remove the opportunity, the crime is less likely to occur, and some types cannot occur at all.

While Shopping or Going Out:
• Secure valuables out of sight in your trunk. BUT, Be aware that many cars now have fold-down seats or a remote trunk release inside the car. These conveniences make your trunk vulnerable to thieves willing to break a window.
• If at a mall or a shopping center, periodically go to the car and lock away purchases so they will not “disappear” when you put them down trying-on clothes or at the food court
.• Safeguard your purse, wallet, bank cards, and personal information. Identity thieves thrive in this environment.
• Keep close tabs on your children while shopping. With so many people it is easy for them to become lost. Make sure they know their full name, your full name, address, phone, and your cell or pager number to reach you if you get separated.
• Be aware of your surroundings going to your car, going into and out of your house, and while at the ATM.

At Home:
• Make sure to keep doors and windows locked.
• Turn on outside lights at night.
• Report persons or vehicles roaming your neighborhood, day or night so police may check them. They may be simply looking at Christmas lights, or they may be “casing” houses to burglarize.
• Place your tree where the gifts will be less visible from outside. Thieves like window-shopping through your windows.
• After Christmas, don’t put the empty boxes out on the curb. This makes it easy for burglars to decide which houses to burglarize (ie: new computers, TVs, electronics, video games…). Break down boxes and put them in the trash, making sure to save all paperwork. Also remember many electronic devices require original boxes for warranty repair.
• Immediately make an inventory listing the model and serial numbers of new items (and old ones if you haven’t already) and engrave personal markings on them

If Leaving Home (On a trip or just for a little while):
• Make it look like you are still there.
• Timers on exterior lights, interior lights, and TVs will help make it look like you are home. Don’t leave an answering machine message saying you are gone, in fact turning it off would be better.
• Double check all doors and windows, including second floor and basement. The doors should have dead-bolts; key locks for windows are also available.
• Have the neighbor pick up mail, papers, and ads, put out your trash can, and park in your driveway. Give them emergency and cell numbers to reach you.
• Call the police department to request a periodic residence check (“Keep-A-Check”) while you are away. When you return, look around outside first. If you see any evidence of a break-in, do not go inside. Go to a neighbor’s house and call police. The burglars could still be inside.

While traveling: THINK SAFETY
• Before you leave, inspect the car for safety (lights, belts and hoses, fluids, wipers, tires-both wear and air – DON’T FORGET TRAILER LIGHTS).
• Pack expensive items in the trunk, or under coverings to keep them out of sight.
• Pack safely. Items stacked in the back of a van, wagon, or SUV will become 60mph missiles in a crash! They also block the driver’s view. Items secured to the roof greatly alter the vehicle’s handling in wind and emergency maneuvers.
• When you stop, take the keys and lock the doors. This applies all of the time, at home and away. An unlocked, running car invites a thief.
• Use a CLUB or other device when parking for the night or at shopping centers Keep doors locked while driving. It adds strength in a collision.
• Use seat-belts and child restraints properly.
• Be careful with bank, gas, and credit cards.
• Take regular rest breaks.
• Never send your children into restrooms alone.
• Store money in separate places to minimize loss or theft.
• Stay on roads you know and take maps, cell phones, and chargers, as well as safety items like blankets, flashlights, jumper cables, a jack, and a good spare tire.
• Drive carefully- better than those around you. You need to get there alive!

Have a wonderful holiday season. Remember, most crimes and accidents are preventable. Officers are working hard to locate and stop crime, but everyone must do their part to lower their risk.

TOWN HALL MEETING November 30th

2010-11-11T07:39:00.000-08:00

There will be a Town Hall meeting on November 30th, 6:30 pm at the Fort Dorchester Elementary School. The budget was mailed last week for all to review. A question form was also included in the mailing. If you would like your questions answered please submit them to our office in advance. Due to limited time at the school only questions submitted in advance will be addressed.

Please fax or e-mail your form to our office.

843-795-8482 fax

e-mail: tbarry@cmgcharleston.com

HALLOWEEN SAFTEY

2010-10-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

TIPS FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS
Carry a flashlight with you for visibility.
Always stay in a group with an adult!
Never enter a stranger’s house or car for a treat!
Always walk on the sidewalk.
If there is no sidewalk, walk on the grass away fromthe street.
Look both ways before crossing the street and if you are wearing a mask take it off.
Wait until an adult can check your candy before you eat any of it.
Only accept treats from neighbors or friends you know!

TIPS FOR PARENTS
Plan costumes that are bright and reflective!
Consider adding more reflective tape tocostumes + trick or treat bags.
Always carry flashlights.
Masks can limit or block eyesight, consider makeup or cut the mask eyeholes biggerso they can see.
Remind children to remove their masks to cross the street!
We recommend that children do not use props like guns, knives, or swords.However, if they are used, make sure they don’t look real!
Clear hazards from your property.
Remove obstacles such as flower pots and garden hoses, so children won’t trip on them rushing from house to house.
Remind your children not to eat the candy until an adult has checked their treats!
Your child’s school may be having a Halloween party. Call the School and ask.
Please explain to children the difference between tricks and vandalism.
TIPS FOR MOTORISTS
Drive slowly and cautiously through your neighborhoods.
Remember children maynot look before crossing the street.
Please report any suspicious activity immediately to the local law enforcement agency.
As always in an emergency call 911.

Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!

FALL COMMUNITY YARD SALE THIS WEEKEND!

2010-10-13T07:35:00.000-07:00

Don't forget the fall community yard sale this weekend. Saturday October 16th, 8am until 1pm. you can bring your items up to the pool or just set up in your driveway. Remember your junk is someones else's treasure. Good luck and hope you make lots of moolah!

POOL COSING OCTOBER 3rd

2010-09-28T12:37:00.001-07:00

Summer has gone and fall has come. Cool evenings, leaves falling and now its time to put the pool to bed for the winter. The last day to use the pool is October 3rd. Furniture will be stored and the gate locked on October 4th. Thank you to all those patrons who respected the pool and followed all the rules this summer. Have a great fall!

NEW BOARD MEMBER ELECTED

2010-09-14T13:06:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Mike Sapienza. Mike was elected at the August 19th, Annual meeting to fill the vacant seat left by Michelle English. Mike's term will run for three years. Thank you to all who came out to the meeting and to those who submitted their proxy if they could not. Quorum was met and the meeting held as required by the Covenants.

If you would like to volunteer to assist the Board on a landscape or social committee please contact our office.

MY NAME IS EARL...POSSIBLE HURRICANE HEADED OUR WAY.

2010-08-31T09:43:00.001-07:00

We here at Community Management Group have been proactively working out hurricane planning and what would need to be done to amenities on the properties if a hurricane did end up hitting our area. The Board of Directors for our communities have been provided a list of duties we are to be responsible for. If we are evacuated we have plans worked out with our entire staff to be back in the area as soon as possible. Our contracted vendors have been contacted and retained to help with storm clean up with our properties being priority. As homeowners we ask you also take a few precautions that are common sense to all of us. The last few months we have posted hurricane preparedness tips but when the time comes those fly right out of our heads. PLEASE BE PREPARED and revisit our blog history, our website and the local county information for pertinent information to protect yourself and your property if a storm does hit our area.

SLOW DOWN - SCHOOL IS BACK IN SESSION

2010-08-17T12:32:00.001-07:00

School is back in session which finds students out on the corners now waiting for the bus or being dropped off. The high school students are out there as early as 5:30 am. Please slow down and be wary of students. The difference to your destination traveling at the speed of 30 miles an hour compared to 20 or 25 is only 7 seconds. Is that 7 seconds really worth the life of someone in the community.

ANNUAL MEETING AUGST 19th

2010-08-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

PLEASE ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING RESCHEDULED MEETING ON AUGUST 19th, 6:30 at Fort Dorchestor Elementary School. Due to lack of quorum at the June meeting, no business was conducted and meeting has been rescheduled. PLEASE SUBMIT A PROXY IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND. A proxy is available online.

CAMERAS AT THE POOL

2010-07-22T13:20:00.001-07:00

The Board of Directors has installed video surveillance cameras at the pool. The cameras are the first step in alleviating the trespassing by non residents and for anyone violating the pool rules. The next step is going to be to raise the pool entrance gate to 6' so those who do not have a key cannot jump the gate undetected or set their small child over the gate to push the exit button to open the gate. If you see someone jumping the gate or the perimeter fence please call the police.

POOL ISSUES

2010-07-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

Please refresh yourself with the pool rules for the community. There have been several complaints of glass bottles, loud music, horse play, water balloon throwing, and general disrespect of the rules.

Cameras will be installed next week and the entrance gate will be raised in the next few weeks to prevent people from setting their kids over it to hit the emergency exit button.

If anyone see people jumping the perimeter fence. Please call the North Charleston police department or contact our office during business hours.

SCOOP THE POOP

2010-06-24T10:58:00.001-07:00

Dear Homeowners,

Below you will find some important information pertaining to taking care of your pets. Why Scoop the Poop?Besides being a nuisance, uncollected dog waste is a serious problem for our association. Next time you’re tempted to leave your dog’s droppings on the lawn, please remember these facts:
1. The Environmental Protection Agency is becoming aggressive about enforcing the Clean Water Act. Our association could be fined if dog waste goes uncollected.
2. Uncollected dog waste may lead to a special assessment. If fined by the EPA, the association could face a potential special assessment that would be levied against all members—not just dog owners.
3. The appearance and quality of the common areas are known to affect home sales—not just whether and for how much they sell, but how quickly.
4. The more residents complain about dog waste, the more time the manager must spend on enforcement rather than serving the association.
5. Uncollected dog waste spreads disease and attracts rodents who feed on pet waste.

Stop That Barking!

Dogs left alone all day get bored and restless, and many find relief in barking. Some respond noisily to any and all activity. But, nothing is as annoying as incessant barking—even for dog lovers. If your dog is a yapper or a yowler, please consider some of these bark-abatement ideas to keep the noise down in your area. Your neighbors will thank you!

 Training. Always the first recommendation for any behavioral problem! Help is as close as the Yellow Pages. Training not only helps your dog, you’ll be surprised how much it helps you, too. You may get some insight into why your dog barks so much, or what it is trying to communicate.
 Citronella collars. A humane alternative to the electric-shock, anti-barking collar and costs about the same. Available on the web and in pet stores.
 Confinement. Sometimes simply bringing an outspoken dog indoors or confining it to a crate can cut down on the disturbance to neighbors.
 Reduce stimulus. Close drapes to help muffle street noise, or leave a radio on to mask it. Disconnect telephones and doorbells before leaving your home if they upset your dog or make it bark.
 Companionship. Dogs are pack animals; they need companionship—a cat, bird, or another dog.

Consider a mid-day visit from a pet-sitting service, or drop your pooch off at a friend’s place or a day-care facility once or twice a week.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS TIPS

2010-06-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

Four simple steps can help YOU get ready:
1. Get a kit of emergency supplies.
2. Make a plan of what you will do.
3. Be informed about what might happen.
4. Get involved in preparing your community.
Emergency preparedness is everyone’s responsibility. Everyone should have an emergency plan and be prepared to take care of themselves for at least the first 72 hours after a disaster.

www.charlestoncounty.org 1. Get a Kit of Emergency Supplies
When preparing for a possible emergency situation, think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own for at least the first 72 hours after a disaster. The other kit should be a light-weight, smaller version that you can have ready to take with you in case you need to leave home.

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:
¨ Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
¨ Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
¨ Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
¨ Flashlight and extra batteries.
¨ First aid kit.
¨ Whistle to signal for help.
¨ Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air, and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
¨ Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
¨ Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
¨ Can opener for food (if your kit contains canned food).
¨ Local maps.
¨ Cell phone and cell phone chargers.

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:
¨ Prescription medications and glasses.
¨ Infant formula and diapers.
¨ Pet food and extra water for your pet.
¨ Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
¨ Cash or traveler's checks and change.
¨ Emergency reference material such as a first aid book.
¨ Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
¨ Complete change of clothing including a long-sleeve shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
¨ Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper. When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
¨ Fire extinguisher: ABC type.
¨ Matches in a waterproof container.
¨ Personal hygiene items and feminine supplies.
¨ Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, and paper towels.
¨ Paper and pencil.
¨ Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

www.charlestoncounty.org 2. Family Emergency Plan
Make sure your family has a plan in case of an emergency. Before an emergency happens, sit down together and decide how you will get in contact with each other, where you will go and what you will do in an emergency. Keep a copy of this plan in your emergency supply kit or another safe place where you can access it in the event of a disaster.

Out-of-Town Contact Name:

Telephone Number:
E-mail:

Telephone Number:
Fill out the following information for each family member and keep it up to date.

Name:

Social Security Number:
Date of Birth:

Important Medical Information:
Name:

Social Security Number:
Date of Birth:

Important Medical Information:
Name:

Social Security Number:
Date of Birth:

Important Medical Information:
Name:

Social Security Number:
Date of Birth:

Important Medical Information:
Name:

Social Security Number:
Date of Birth:

Important Medical information:
Where to go in an emergency. Write down where your family spends the most time: work, school and other places you frequent. Schools, daycare providers, workplaces and apartment buildings should all have site-specific emergency plans.

Home

Work
Address:

Address:
Phone Number:

Phone Number:
Neighborhood Meeting Place:

Evacuation Location:
Regional Meeting Place:

School

Work
Address:

Address:
Phone Number:

Phone Number:
Evacuation Location:

Evacuation Location:
School

Other
Address:

Address:
Phone Number:

Phone Number:
Evacuation Location:

Evacuation Location:

Important Information
Name
Telephone #
Policy #
Doctor(s):

Other:

Pharmacist:

Medical Insurance:

Homeowners/Rental Insurance:

Veterinarian/Kennel for Pets:

STORM WATER PONDS AND ALLIGATORS

2010-05-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

Recently a child was injured while playing on one of the inlet/outlet pipes that lead into one of the storm water ponds. PLEASE do not allow your children to play near the ponds without adult supervision.

Addi tonally Alligator Concerns…
We have been having calls lately regarding concern about alligators in the ponds of our communities. Please take a moment to read over the below alligator safety tips. This information is proven to be helpful when presented with a situation where an alligator crosses your path.

Stay out of the way!

Never allow small children or pets near water by themselves.

Do not allow pets to swim, exercise or drink from lakes or canals that may contain alligators.
Dogs are highly susceptible to attack since they resemble the natural prey of alligators.

Do not swim outside of posted swimming areas or in waters that might be inhabited by alligators.Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.

Leave alligators alone!

ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULED JUNE 10TH

2010-05-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

Owners should have received a package in the mail last week with the annual meeting announcement. In the package was a notice of the meeting, agenda, proxy and nomination form. It is very important owners either attend this meeting or return their proxy to the Community Management office. The quorum requirement is 1/3 or 187 in person or by proxy. If quorum is not met the meeting will have to be rescheduled and a second mailing sent at a significant cost to the community. PLEASE RETURN YOUR PROXY!

There is one Board position available. Included in the was a nomination form for the vacant position. If your interested in serving your community on the Board of Directors please complete and return this form as soon as possible. The term is for 3 years.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Community Management office for more information.

POOL OPENS MAY 1

2010-04-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

The pool will open Saturday May 1. Assessments must be current in order to use the pool. Those in arrears and caught using the pool can and will be charged with trespassing. Children under 14 must be with a parent. There is going to be a ZERO tolerance for glass containers in the pool area. You will receive one warning, if caught a second time your pool privileges will be suspended for the season. Please utilize the trash cans and pick up trash after your children. Anyone caught in the pool area after hours will also have their privileges revoked. No one wants to spoil anyones fun but the pool rules and DHEC regulations are in place so everyone can have a safe and fun swim season.

COMMUNITY YARD SALE APRIL 17TH

2010-04-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

The Community Yard Sale will be April 17th, owners are permitted to carry items up to the pool and set up or can simply set up in the driveway. Signs will be posted at the entrances and an ad has been run in the Post & Courier and one will also be put on Craigs list. So clean out those garges, closets and attics and make a little pocket change from those unwanted, unused items.

LOW COUNTRY FOOD BANK

2010-03-18T07:24:00.001-07:00

The National Association of Letter Carriers Food Drive happens every year on Mother’s Day weekend. All of the food that is collected, last year it was 100,000 pounds, comes to the Lowcountry Food Bank and Amy Kosar is in charge of the coordination of the efforts. She is trying to make sure that there is as much awareness as possible. It’s so easy, all people have to do is leave a bag of food at, in or by their mailbox and the letter carrier picks it up and brings it back to the local post office. Please contact Amy Kosar with any questions.

Amy Kosar

Food Solicitor

Lowcountry Food Bank

akosar@lcfbank.org

(843) 747-8146 ext 108

(843) 475-0625 cell

POOL SEASON RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER

2010-03-02T10:15:00.001-08:00

With the recent snow and cold weather, its hard to believe the pool will open in two short months. Please be reminded your assessments must be current in order to use the pool. Delinquent accounts will be deactivated and you will have to contact the office to have your pool fob reactivated. If you ave lost your pool fob a replacement can be issued but there is a $25.00 fee. If you need a pool fob please contact our office.

OAK FOREST SHED SURVEY

2010-02-16T12:52:00.000-08:00

The Board of Directors recently sent out a mailing with information regarding parking in the neighborhood. NO overnight street parking is permitted. If you have to park on the street during at anytime please be sure to park the right way, going with traffic and do not block the street.

Also in the mailing was a survey regarding storage sheds in the neighborhood, whether owners are for or against allowing residents to have some type of outdoor storage. The ones currently in the neighborhood are unapproved structures and placed there without approval of the HOA. Please cmplete the short survey and mail or e-mail it to our office.

STREET PARKING

2010-02-02T19:01:00.001-08:00

Everyone hates to do the vehicle shuffle when there is more than one driver and auto owner in the household. Unfortunately, sometimes it has to be done. A reminder to all homeowners that parking on the street overnight is a violation according to the Governing documents. This rule is in place to make our streets safer for our kids, allow emergency vehicles easy access, and to give an overall better appearance aesthetically. Please help us keep our streets safe. Do not block sidewalks as this also causes a hazard to those taking there evening strolls, kids heading to the bus stop etc. People are forced into the street which is a dangerous situation for the pedestrian.

HOA REMINDERS

2010-01-19T19:07:00.001-08:00

Holiday lights and decorations need to be taken down and stored until next year.

Spring is right around the corner, make a list of maintenance items the exterior of your home is in need of. Have a plan of action to spruce up your homes exterior to avoid those violation letters and keep the neighborhood looking its best.

Lawn maintenance is at a stand still this time of year but leaf removal is still a part of homeowners duties. Mulch and Pine straw also may need to be freshened.

Adding a fence, widening a driveway, changing your shutter color are just a few of the things that require you to submit an ACC application. An application is available on your HOA website.

Trash Cans must be stored in a location that is not visible from the street.

Please be a courteous pet owner. Do not allow your pet to roam free or defecate or urinate on anyone else's lawn. Some people don't own dogs or cats and do not appreciate you allowing your pet to do its business on their lawn, whether you clean up after it or not.

2010 ASSESSMENT PAYMENT INFORMATION

2010-01-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all! Best wishes to you and yours in the new year ahead.

In order for the HOA to successfully operate it counts on homeowners making their annual assessment payment to fund the various projects, keep the lights on, pay the contractors and sock a little away for a rainy day. 2010 assessment statements were mailed out in December, if you did not receive your statement please contact our office and we would be glad to provide you with a new one. The assessment payment was due the 1st of January and late fees will be applied if payment is not posted by the 30th of this month. There are various ways in which you can pay your assessment:

1) Detach the stub from the bottom of your statement form and mail your payment to the bank’s lockbox at Post Office Box 912, Columbia, SC 29202. Please make checks and money orders payable to "Oak Forest"

2) Go online to http://www.cmgcharleston.com/ and select “online payments.” You will need your account number noted on your statement for this option if you have not already setup your account.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns regarding this matter at (843) 795-8484 ext. 304. You can also reach my coordinator, Kristi Mohler, at ext. 322. We hope your 2010 is off to a great start!

Terri Barry, CMCA, AMS

DONT LET COLD WEATHER FREEZE YOUR WALLET....WINTER WEATHER TIPS

2009-12-01T09:28:00.000-08:00

Secure your outside faucets by disconnecting all hoses from outside faucets and make sure they are drained and turned off. If you don't have a separate shut-off valve for outside faucets, protect them with insulated covers. These can be purchased from your local hardware store. You can also place caulk around the pipes where they enter your home.
If your hot water heater is in an unheated area or near drafts from outdoors, insulate it.
Before traveling out of town, turn off your water at the main valve or at the meter. You can turn off your hot water heater at the electric breaker panel.
If the temperature will be below freezing, open one or two faucets in the house to allow water sitting in the pipes to expand.
If you have an irrigation system, be sure to wrap and insulate your back flow device to prevent freezing.

HOLIDAY DECORATION REMINDERS

2009-11-09T12:44:00.001-08:00

The holidays are here, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Ramadan..... With the holidays come the urge for owners to decorate and be festive. The Association does not prohibit holiday displays but would like to remind everyone lights and decorations need to be removed in a timely manner. The general rule to follow is holiday decorations can be placed out 30 days prior to the holiday and must be removed no later than 30 days after the holiday. We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME NO TRICK ITS HERE!

2009-10-27T13:10:00.001-07:00

Time to change those clocks back this weekend. FALL BACK, SPRING AHEAD as the old saying goes, so remember to turn your clocks back one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night. Also this is a good time to replace smoke detector batteries etc.

Additionally, Please be careful this Saturday as all the little ghosts and goblins will be out and about. If you plan to give out treats, put on your porch light so parents and kids know your home and participating in the old Trick or Treat Halloween tradition. Be extra cautious driving in the neighborhood and anywhere else you may travel. Children may dart out in front of you in their excitement.

OAK FOREST NEWS

2009-10-14T18:06:00.001-07:00

BUDGET SEASON IS HERE It's budget season and all homeowners need to know that collection procedures are in full swing. Please be sure that your HOA account is current and that all assessment payments are paid in a timely manner. This practice avoids fees and confusion regarding your account. It also keeps your community running smoothly and allows financial means to pay necessary HOA expenses. If you have any questions regarding your account, please contact Community Management Group at 843-795-8484. Thank you for taking care of your community!!

ANIMAL CONTROL. Owners should not have to be reminded that their animals are not be allowed outside of the home without being on a leash. Many people choose to ignore this. Its not only a violation of the covenants but a law in Dorchester County and the City of North Charleston. Please respect this and keep your dogs on a leash! They may be your best friend but no so for others.

COVENANT ENFORCEMENT AND MONETARY FINES

2009-09-30T08:00:00.001-07:00

Owners in the neighborhood have received from time to time a notification of a covenant violation on the property. Most residents take the necessary steps to bring the property into compliance., but there are those who do not comply and are eventually fined. A common misconception is the fines assessed against a property are collected by Community Management Group as a profit to the company. This is not the case. All violation fines assessed and collected are deposited directly into the Associations operating account. It is not the goal of the Association to collect these fines, more often then naught the fines are waived once the property has been brought into compliance and the resident has contacted the office. Covenant enforcement is not a pleasurable job by the Board or the management company but a necessary one to keep the neighborhood looking its best.

POOL SEASON COMING TO AN END

2009-09-17T11:18:00.001-07:00

September is here, the kids are back in school and soon the pool will be closed for the winter months. The season officially ends on September 30th and at that time the pool furniture will be stored. Technically the pool water is still safe for swimming even after the 30th but the contractor will only be servicing the pool once a week whereas right now it is handled seven days a week. The Board would prefer you do not swim after the 30th but if you feel you must please let us know so the neighbors who keep on eye on things don't run you off. Its swim at your own risk. Thank you to everyone for making the 2009 pool season a safe and enjoyable one.

HURRICANE PREPARDENESS

2009-09-01T07:16:00.000-07:00

Historically in the Charleston area, September has been the month for most Hurricanes to affect the area. Hurricane season lasts through November so we havent made it through the season yet but lets hope we do without incident. In the event of a hurricane, here are some helpful tips to help you weather the storm.YOUR OUR HURRICANE PLAN:
Have a practice drill to determine what everyone’s responsibility will be.
Educate all family members in CPR and other first aid measures.
Teach children how to use a fire extinguisher and when & how to call 911 for emergency assistance.
Check all fire alarms, smoke alarms, etc. for proper operation.
Determine what the criteria will be as to whether you evacuate or stay in your home.
Know your evacuation routes and determine which route you will use should an evacuation order be issued.
Determine in advance your evacuation destination. If you will not be staying with a friend or family member, make hotel reservations at this location as soon as a “watch” is issued. Remember, that during an evacuation severaltowns may be evacuated at the same time and hotels will fill up quickly in all surrounding areas. Reservations can be cancelled.
Make a decision about vehicles. If you have more than one vehicle and will not be taking all of them with you determine where the other vehicles will beleft during the storm.
Make a decision about boats and other recreational vehicles.
If you have pets, determine whether they will evacuate with you or be placed in a shelter.
Have a list of phone numbers, such as family members, doctors, employers, insurance company’s, etc.
Make arrangements for extra cash on hand.
Catalog all personal items NOW. Include description (brand name, model number, age, purchase price, place of purchase, etc.) Take a picture of everything and make two copies of the pictures and lists. Keep one copy withyou and send the other to a relative or friend out of town. Never give the insurance company the only copy.
Have a secure place for all valuables & documents that you will need to take with you, such as birth certificates, property deeds, insurance policies, etc.
Determine an out-of-town person who can be a “point of contact” to communicate messages if communications are down for an extended period oftime.
Prepare and maintain a “Hurricane Kit” (a list of recommended supplies isincluded). It is recommended that you have approximately 7 gallons of water for each person and food supplies for a minimum of 2 weeks.
Check all flashlights, battery operated radios & TVs, and other supplies in your“Hurricane Kit” for proper operation.
Evaluate your home to determine if you can make improvements that will provide better protection. If you have an older home, getting a professional opinion about updated building codes, etc. may be helpful in determining beneficial improvements. Community Management Group Hurricane Planning TipsPage 4 of 11
You should also review your insurance policy, with your agent, to determine if you need to make any coverage changes. Be sure to ask questions about coverage for updated building codes, demolition coverage for an undamagedportion of your home, flood coverage, understand your coverage and deductibles, clarify any exclusions, verify that in the event of a complete loss you will have the coverage you need to re-build, ask what you will need toprove a claim, find out what their procedures are relative to immediate protection of the home following a loss, ask who to contact immediately following the storm and get phone numbers, how long you may expect towait for an adjuster, how contact will be made in the event that all communications are lost for a period of time, and any other questions that you can think of. Preparing now will make the claims process much easier andless stressful for everyone.
Obtain and prepare plywood, plastic, shutters or other protective provision for windows & doors. Install and inspect the covering in advance of an emergency to insure proper fit.

SCHOOL IS BACK IN SESSION - PLEASE SLOW DOWN

2009-08-17T10:53:00.001-07:00

It is that time of the year again, school is back in session. Please be cautious when driving through the neighborhood, the neighborhood children will be out walking to catch their buses and walking back home in the afternoon. Please slow down.We hope all had a great summer with family, friends, vacations, time off, and enjoying the pool this summer. Please pass along to your visitors driving in the neighborhood to please slow down and keep our children safe. The high school kids catch the bus at 5:45 am, often times they are not fully awake nor are you driving to work. PLEASE SLOW DOWN AND BE CAUTIOUS. Additionally if your home has a sidewalk in front, please do not block the sidewalk with your vehicles. This is not only dangerous to the kids, joggers, walkers etc.. in the neighborhood but against the law and residents can be ticketed.

Please speak to your kids about courtesy while waiting for the bus. Bus stops are adjacent to homeowners property. Last year we received numerous complaints about the kids throwing trash on the lawns, parents pulling up on lawns while they wait to collect their children, noise and foul language. If they dont act like that at home they shouldnt act like that in public.

LETS HAVE A SAFE SCHOOL YEAR.

SUMMERTIME LAWN MAINTENANCE

2009-07-21T05:50:00.000-07:00

Summers half over all ready and soon the kids will be going back to school. We know owners are busy with summer fun and vacations but please remember to make arrangements for your lawns to be maintained in your absence.

Yard Maintenance standards are as follows.

Mow your lawn regularly.

Edge your driveways and sidewalks.

Trim tall weeds from around the house and pull weeds from landscape beds.

Please do not blow your grass clippings into the street. You must sweep them up after you mow.

If you use mulch or pine straw in your landscape beds it must be freshened on a regular basis. Pine straw tends to turn gray half way throught the season and generally needs to be applied twice a year.

July 15th meeting

2009-07-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

Please remember to attend the July 15th annual meeting. If you cannot atted please remit your proxy to the CMG office so that we may meet the quorum requirements.

BEAT CRIME THIS SUMMER

2009-06-23T06:43:00.001-07:00

Going on vacation. Its wise to take steps to be sure your house is safe while you are away. Contact the Post Office and Newspaper carriers to stop mail and delivery of your newspaper. Leave a light on in the house. Let a trusted neighbor know you will be gone who can keep an eye on your property. Be sure to make arrangements to keep your lawn mowed while you are away.

POOL REMINDERS

2009-06-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

Please be reminded all children that are not potty trained must be in swim diapers at all times while in the pool.

No glass containers are allowed at the pool.

No pets

Children under fourteen must be with an adult member at all times.

You must have your pool fob to enter the pool. This serves as your identification as a user of the Oak Forest pool so please have it with you at all times.

NOTICE OF RESCHEDULED MEETING

2009-06-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

The Oak Forest Annul meeting was held June 1st, 2009 at the Fort Dorchester Elementary School, unfortunately the required quorum was not met and the meeting was adjourned and has been rescheduled for July 15th, 2009 at 7pm. It will be held at the Fort Dorchester Elementary School. 5201 Glory Lane, Summerville, South Carolina.

Its important we meet quorum is met at this meeting so if you cannot attend please send in your proxy which you can print http://www.cmgcharleston.com/oak_forest.htm, click “Replacement Proxy Here”,

Your community manager Terri Barry will also be onsite at the pool June 11, 2009 from 5pm until 7pm for you to drop your proxy off.

If you have any questions please contact your property manager.

Pool Season!

2009-05-08T11:10:00.001-07:00

The pool is officially open and minor sprucing-up work is underway. We welcome your observations and suggestions for enhancements and maintenance considerations. Budgets are tight but your Association wants to maintain the property in the best condition possible.

Please stay in touch with us and report any concerns to Community Management Group at 795-8484.

Remember that access is self-policing. Please keep the gate shut and do not allow anyone other than your personal guests into the pool unless they have a working access card.

-Steve