HIGHLAND LAKES

CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
November 2016

November 2016

NEXT BOARD MEETING:

Monday, November 21, 2016
at 7:30 p.m.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

www.facebook.com/hlca.mi

Buckthorn Article - Page 15

Whats Cooking? - page 20
Womens Club - page 21
Fireplace & Chimney
Cleaning Policy - page 22
Mark your calendars!!

Happy
Thanksgiving

Clubhouse Closed
November 24th
Christmas Clubhouse
Decorating Party (pg 16)
November 26
Traditional Christmas SingA-Long (pg 17) December 2
Adult Christmas Party (pg
18) December 3
Gingerbread Decorating
Party (pg 19)
December 10
.

20301 Silver Spring Drive Northville, MI 48167

Phone: (248) 349-4006 Fax: (248) 349-8821

Website: www.HLCA.us
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hlca.mi

Do you need a venue for your upcoming event?

Consider the Highland House!

Did you know The Highland House is available

for rent to Highland Lakes co-owners?
For as low as $35 (plus security deposit) you can
rent the Highland Room for your next family
party or business meeting. The Highland Room
rental includes the use of tables and chairs and
offers a variety of lighting options as well as a
projector screen for your slide shows or meeting
presentations.
For larger functions, you may also include the
main lounge of the clubhouse for your party.
Our full kitchen, which includes a full size
refrigerator, stove, microwave and buffet serving
area is also available for rent.
The Clubhouse Committee has worked hard
to make the Highland House an amenity you
would be proud to utilize. We encourage you to
visit the facility. Details about rental rates and
restrictions are available at the Clubhouse, or on
the Clubhouse Committee page at HLCA.us
2

Highland Lakes
Management Section
Highland Lakes Board of Directors

Guy Balok, President

Kathy Baldwin, Vice President
Sandy Nolan, Secretary
Michelle Todorov, Treasurer
Kathleen Connor, Director
Margaret (Peggy) Zonca, Director
Ann Creviston, Director
This section of the Herald contains minutes of the Board of Directors meetings
and management information. This section is the official medium of communications of the Association as prescribed by Board Resolution R-6, March 22, 1976.
We recommend that you not only read but save this section of the Herald for future
reference. Resolutions and Regulations approved by the Board become part of
your Association By-Laws.
3

HIGHLAND LAKES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION DIRECTORY

20301 Silver Spring Drive, Northville, MI 48167
Phone: 248-349-4006
E-mail: clubhouse@hlca.us
Fax: 248-349-8821
Web: www.HLCA.us

After Hours Emergency Maintenance Phone: 248-349-4043

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Guy Balok, President................... 734-667-3507
Margaret (Peggy) Zonca, Director.248-348-5283
Kathy Baldwin, Vice President..... 248-974-6688
Michelle Todorov, Director............ 248-380-1611
Sandy Nolan, Secretary............... 248-349-3587
Ann Creviston, Director.................248-894-4961
Kathleen Connor, Director........... 248-207-6417
PERSONNEL
Guinevere Eatmon........Senior Receptionist (Notary)
Heather Greer........................................Receptionist
Alexis Jackson......................................Receptionist

Joe Poma........................................Property Manager

Emily Lutzenkirchen.....Publications & Records Assistant
Sharon Englund.......................................Bookkeeper

COMMITTEE INFORMATION
COMMITTEE

CHAIRPERSON
Barb Balok

734-667-3507

Sandy Nolan & Ann Creviston

Court Liaison

Joel Lutz

248-349-6782

Peggy Zonca & Sandy Nolan

Engineering

Tom Werner

248-349-4459

Kathleen Connor & Peggy Zonca

Community Social

Brad Todorov

248-380-1611

Finance

Joyce Elvy

248-349-1747

Guy Balok, Kathy Baldwin, Sandy

Nolan & Michelle Todorov
Kathleen Connor & Ann Creviston

Clubhouse

PHONE

BOARD LIAISON

Grounds

-----

248-348-9811

Kathleen Connor & Peggy Zonca

Herald

-----

-----

Kathleen Connor & Sandy Nolan

Guy Balok & Michelle Todorov

Ecology

Cathy Watkins

248-765-2327

Pool

Rosemary Campion

248-349-8227

RV

Cheryl Huizing
Hugh Battley

Guy Balok, Kathleen Connor,

& Sandy Nolan
248-231-7603
248-349-4841
Michelle Todorov

Tennis

Carol Shields

248-305-7123

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Michelle Todorov

After Hours Emergency ...................................................................................................................248-349-4006

Northville Township Police-Non-Emergency .................................................................................248-349-9400
Northville Township Fire Department ..........................................................................................248-348-5807
Northville Township Police and Fire Emergency ........................................................................................... 911
After Hours Maintenance Emergency ..........................................................................................248-349-4006
Assessment/Billing Inquiries .....................................................................................................248-349-4006
Consumers Power Company .......................................................................................................800-477-5050
DTE-Electric Company ...............................................................................................................800-477-4747
Hazardous Waste Information .....................................................................................................734-326-3936
HLCA WOW! Account Rep (Bob Sivori) ........................................................................................248-808-9872
WOW! Sales & Support .............................................................................................................1-866-496-9669
HLCA AT&T Account Rep (Denise Smith) .....................................................................................810-265-4946
AT&T Sales & Support (Phone or U-Verse) ..................................................................................800-288-3466
HLCA Comcast Account Rep (Erin Timmermann)..............................................erin_timmermann@comcast.com
Web site ......................................................................................................................................www.HLCA.us
Association Facebook Page ..............................................................................................facebook.com/hlca.mi

Highland Lakes
Herald

Herald Committee

Joy Gaskin
(looking for volunteers)

Herald Staff

Ray Parzych
Betty Parzych
Joel Lutz
Tom DeGalan
Gloria Janks
Ilio Alessandri
Barbara Evans
Marty Tingstad

The Highland Lakes Herald is the official news medium of

the Highland Lakes Condominium Association, serving all
residents, groups and organizations.
The Association and its Board of Directors control and are
responsible for the contents of the Herald.
The staff of the Highland Lakes Herald serves on a voluntary
basis. Editorials reflect the opinions of the staff and are not
construed as representative of the general membership of
the Association.
The Herald welcomes comments, suggestions and articles
from its readers. All material submitted for publication
in the Herald must be true, factual, and newsworthy. The
editor reserves the right to withhold items from publication
pending verification of facts. In some cases where items
are of a critical or controversial nature, the editor reserves
the right to solicit comments from those with opposing
viewpoints.
Materials submitted for publication are to be given to the
receptionist in Highland House. All materials submitted
must be signed, but signatures will be withheld upon request.
Communications to the Herald should be in writing. No
material will be accepted for publication in the upcoming
issue after the 20th of the month.

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

AUTO REPAIR
Flash Glass..................................................27
Phil's 76 Service..........................................28
BEAUTY / SKIN CARE

HOME REPAIR & HANDYMAN SERVICES

Roger the Handyman............................... 26
INSURANCE

Amway........................................................23

Merrick Maris Insurance.......................... 31

Avon/Mary Kay........................................25

PLUMBING

CARPET & FLOORS

Simply Floor Coverings............................23
ELECTRICIAN
Noonan Electrical Service........................27
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
OBrien Sullivan Funeral Home...............27
GAS FIREPLACE REPAIR

Evans Plumbing........................................27
REAL ESTATE
Real Estate One.......................................... 25
Claudia Hernandez, Realtor....................25
Megan Atkinson, Realtor.........................24

American Gas Works LLC.......................25

WINDOWS / WINDOWS REPAIR

HAIR STYLIST

R & H Glazing........................................... 26

Paul Warddell...........................................23
HEATING & COOLING
Harriman Heating Inc...............................26

https://www.facebook.com/hlca.mi

HIGHLAND LAKES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING MINUTES - October 17, 2016

The monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of Highland Lakes Condominium Association was held on the
third Monday of the month, in accordance with the By-Laws of the Association. President Guy Balok called the
October 17, 2016, regular meeting of the Board of Directors to order at 7:35 p.m.
Attendance
The following Directors were present: Guy Balok, Kathy Baldwin, Michelle Todorov, Sandy Nolan, and Peggy
Zonca. Also present were Joe Poma, Property Manager, and Emily Lutzenkirchen, Publications and Records
Assistant. Approximately 12 Co-Owners attended.
Approval of Minutes:

Clubhouse Committee Report: page 10

Board Action: Motion by Peggy Zonca, support by Sandy Barb Balok reported.
Nolan, to approve and file the minutes of the September
19, 2016 executive session of the Board of Directors. All Discussion: In regards to item #1, the Committee will not
be putting flyers out.
in favor. Motion passed.
The collection for Civic Concern will be at noon on
Treasurers Report:
October 22nd. The Court Liaison and Clubhouse
Committees will be picking them up from patios. People
Joe Poma reported.
are emailing Joel Lutz to let him know if they can help
This months financial statement represents the end of the with pick up. Peggy requested that canned goods and
fiscal year; running favorable at $192,694. The Association boxed goods be separated and boxed since Civic Concern
was able to improve upon and bring the residents various is in the process of moving. Also, to have them call Civic
forms of cost savings. These categories included contracts Concern and let them know when they will be arriving
from AT&T and Comcast for using our property to route with the donations.
their wiring and marketing contracts, there were no
foreclosures this year, less collection actions, work done in- Board Action: Motion by Michelle Todorov, support
house, and the lack of need to tap into our write-off budget by Sandy Nolan, to approve the Clubhouse Committee
to collect uncollectable receivables. The legal collectable report of October 3, 2016. All in favor. Motion passed.
account is favorable $31,000. The renegotiation of our
natural gas contract has saved the Association almost Court Liaison Committee Report: page 11
half of what it was the previous year as far as cost per unit Joel Lutz reported.
of natural gas. Due to this, the gas account is favorable
slightly over $87,000. Maintenance wages is under this Discussion: Last month the Committee was short 40
year due to the lack of need for overtime during the mild Heralds. Joel noticed that people are helping themselves to
winter. Also, snow removal has a surplus of $11,000. There a Herald from the pile that is designated for Court Liaisons
were no insurance losses this fiscal year which resulted to pick up for delivery. He is requesting that a sign be put
in the property and liability account being favorable up to please wait for their Herald to be delivered. Michelle
$11,000. Employee health care is favorable $21,000 due to commented that it sounds more like a printer error since
the 4.6% price reduction. In summary, it was a very good so many were missing. Joe commented that the Heralds
year and the Board has budgeted to roll over $125,000 of used to be in the Highland room but now they are front
any surplus to long-term but that was before they were and center in the Billiard room which makes them more
aware that the surplus is actually $65,000+ better than visible to the general public. Sandy asked if Joel liked them
that. The extra amount may be rolled over to long-term better in the Highland room. Joel replied that he did but
to finance the concrete and asphalt contract, to pay any they were moved to the Billiard room due to events taking
overages or cost overruns from the roofing project, or place in the Highland room. Peggy asked what day Joel
anything else the Association needs and do it in such a checks to see who hasnt delivered. Joel commented that
manner that Association fees do not have a substantial he gives the Court Liaisons a week, makes phone calls to
raise. Receivables, which is at its lowest point since the those who havent delivered by then, and then eventually
year 2002, ended at $36,370, about $3,000 higher than last places them at the Court Liaisons door.
month, due to Association fees paid after the 10th of the Board Action: Motion by Kathy Baldwin, support by
month. There is no assessment increase this year and we Peggy Zonca, to approve the Court Liaison Committee
look forward to a well run 2016/2017.
report of October 6, 2016. All in favor. Motion passed.

Grounds Committee Report: page 12

Management Report: page 9

Joel Lutz reported.

Joe Poma reported.

Discussion: Michelle asked if the submitted garden plans The Meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
were for only one section in the front of the Clubhouse
and, if so, are they concerned about consistency. Joel
commented the location is currently an evergreen
landscape but the age has got to them, they are starting
to look unattractive, so that is why they want to redo that
one section. Also, it comes down to funds and how much
the Committee can afford to do at one time. Michelle
commented that there are funds set aside in long-term for
projects such as this, so why not use it and redo all of the
gardens in front of the Clubhouse including the sign, at
once. Kathy commented that the Board is also concerned
about moving forward with the project in October and
November since some work may be done at the same time
on the Clubhouse which may result in damage to the new
landscape. Joel commented that he is concerned that if
they wait until spring plant stock will be more expensive.
Guy commented that he is not concerned about a small
increase in price.
Board Action: Motion by Kathy Baldwin, support by
Sandy Nolan, to approve the Grounds Committee report
of October 10, 2016 and to table the recommendation
to approve the landscaping plans. All in favor. Motion
Passed.
Engineering Committee Report: page 13
Tom Werner reported.
Discussion: Tom requested an amendment to the
Engineering report to add unit 454s engineering request
form.
Board Action: Motion by Michelle Todorov, support
by Sandy Nolan, to approve the Engineering report of
October 11, 2016 and the recommendations #1-8 and the
addendum for unit 454. All in favor. Motion Passed.
Ecology Committee Report: page 14
Cathy Watkins reported.
Discussion: Michelle asked about #4, the new EcoGrass.
She wanted to know which one is doing well and which
one isnt. Cathy replied that they are both over by the lake.
One looks really good while the other one needs to have
seed put down and then soil placed on top to deter the
birds and ducks from eating the seed.
Guy asked how much is being requested for the Buckthorn
tool. Joe commented that he has seen them online for
around $150.
Board Action: Motion by Sandy Nolan, support by
Michelle Todorov, to approve the Ecology Committee
report of October 11, 2016 and the recommendation that
Highland Lakes purchase the buckthorn removal tool not
to exceed $200. All in favor. Motion Passed.
8

MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager

RE: Property Managers Report

DATE: October 17, 2016

1. Unit Winterizing: We are starting to experience colder temperatures and it wont be long until we drop below freezing on
some nights. If you are done using your outside water faucet, be sure to turn off the water supply valve in the basement and
then turn on the faucet to let the remaining water out. This will also tell you if there is a faulty stop valve. If the water continues to trickle out, have the valve replaced before winter so the pipe does not freeze and burst. Now is also a good time to
change your furnace filter, replace your thermostat batteries and smoke detector batteries. If you plan on using your fireplace
this year, be sure to have it cleaned and inspected if it has seen recent use. For those of you with wide ranging temperatures
between the upstairs and downstairs, give your neighbors a break with the heating portion of their assessment by keeping
your front door and windows closed; there are other ways to equalize temperatures between the upper & lower floors of your
home. Finally, if you are planning to leave for an extended time or for more than a couple of days, shut the water supply off
to the entire unit and keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees. A family member or representative should check your
home regularly regardless.
2. First Home Improvement, Inc.: We have two companies out there that consistently violate our door-to-door solicitation
rules. In September, I had several residents call and say that they were being lied to by the solicitor. He apparently told
them that the Association gave them permission to go door-to-door and they work with us; this is not true. The Association
recommends very few contractors on this site and would never authorize door-to-door solicitation unless it was a contractual
matter, as with AT & T or a similar marketing contract. The solicitors from First Home Improvement will finally leave once
the police are called and it is interesting to note that they are not the contractors themselves. They are a middle-man company who finds a contractor to do the work and gets a fee for locating a customer. They will lie to the homeowner as well
as the Association and they often get belligerent or deny everything when confronted; do not do business with them. Companies like this only have to get one (1) resident to sign up to make it worth returning. If they make a couple of thousand
dollars, its worth their roll of the dice to be here. Their website has no contact information other than your ability to send
an e-mail. There is no phone number and no address and you should be careful. The other company we have had problems
with in the past is Majic Window Company. They do not respect our solicitation rules, Wallside Windows does. In summary, if anyone comes to your door and says that they have permission to be here soliciting our residents, its a lie and they
should be told to leave. Call the office or the police afterward.
3. Watercraft Removal: All paddleboats and other watercraft should be removed from the lakes very soon. Place them on the
boat racks whenever possible and arrange them close so that there is room for others. Turning a paddleboat upside down and
covering it will prevent water from collecting inside, freezing, expanding and cracking the hull. Also secure the watercraft
with a cable or raise it off of the ground slightly to prevent damage during the winter. Any watercraft left on the lakes after
November 1st will be confiscated and there will be a $75 impound fee for retrieval. We do this to protect the seawalls, keep
the community looking good and also verify who has abandoned their watercraft upon moving out or otherwise. Remember
that storing a paddleboat or other watercraft within the patio enclosure is permitted; so long as the watercraft height does not
rise above the top of the fence (turning it on its side is the preferred way to store it).
4. Roofing: The remaining buildings on the property should be finished shortly. This will conclude our roofing project for the
entire community and we hope to concentrate on asphalt & concrete next summer.
5. Vehicle Storage: If you are leaving for the winter or using long term parking, make sure that all tires stay inflated and are
checked often. Vehicles in long term parking at the clubhouse, or anywhere on site for that matter must have a valid registration & plate, be in operable condition and properly parked.
6. Fall &Winter Events: Just because the pool is closed does not mean that the committees have been idle. Look for the
large signs this fall and winter for Pool Committee and Social Committee events. There are upcoming decorating parties, a
Christmas party, Bell Choir and some other events.
7. Gutter Cleaning: Midwest Gutter Cleaning will be cleaning out all of the gutters and downspouts on the buildings in midNovember. They are responsible for the clean-up of all debris that is created and if you see anything left on your patio, call
the office and we will see that it is taken care of.
9

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT

COMMITTEE: Clubhouse Committee
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Barbara Balok - Chairperson
Cheryl Huizing
Betty Parzych
Elaine Anderson
Judy Nakdimen
Mary Lou Levine
Tom Werner

MEETING DATE: October 3, 2016

GUESTS PRESENT:
Sandy Nolan - Board Liaison
Kathy Baldwin - Board Vice President
Ann Creviston - Board Liaison

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Civic Concern Collection. Signs will be out on October 17, and donated items will be collected Saturday, October 22, by
members of Clubhouse and Court Liaison Committees. Flyers will be left at the doors of Co-owners without donations
reminding of the box at the Clubhouse entrance.
2. Clubhouse Rental Policy. Members discussed requests for exceptions to existing regulations and will be working on
amendments.
3. Library Maintenance. Committee members will meet at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 29, to re-shelve books and weed
some of the older books.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: There were no recommendations to the Board

NEXT MEETING: Monday, November 7, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.
Submitted by Barbara Balok, Chairperson
10

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT

COMMITTEE: Court Liaison Committee
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Joel Lutz - Chairperson
Barb Adams - Secretary
Stan Savitskie
Dianne Hartman
Carolyn Toyer
Barb Evans
Ralph Downey
Tom Werner

MEETING DATE: October 6, 2016

GUESTS PRESENT:
Peggy Zonca - Board Liaison
Kathy Baldwin - Board Vice President
Barb Balok
Cheryl Huizing

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Cheryl Huizing brought up the Civic Concern Event. HLCA will be collecting for Civic Concern on Saturday, October 22nd
around noontime. Residents should leave any donations on their front porch for Court Liaisons to pick up for delivery to
the Clubhouse.
2. The individual trash carts placed inside the court trash corrals for disposal of pet waste and small items has not started out
well. If used correctly the amount of loose trash in our corrals should decrease substantially if not even end. This was initiated by our new trash disposal company, but we were not alerted beforehand and so residents were not informed on how to
use them. Details will be in October Herald.
3. A question came up in regards to fining offenders who do not follow the guidelines in regards to trash disposal. This is believed to be possible, we'll check this out.
4. A separate truck picks up the Yard Waste bags.
5. Once the Heralds are stuffed with flyers and set out for distribution, some individuals come into the Clubhouse and help
themselves instead of waiting for the Court Liaison to deliver. This is causing a shortage of Heralds when Court Liaisons
arrive to pick up what is needed for distribution in their court.
6. There are three (3) courts without a Court Liaison. Aqueduct, Lehigh and Iron Gate.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: There were no recommendations to the Board

NEXT MEETING: Thursday, November 3, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.
Submitted by Barb Adams, Secretary
11

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT

COMMITTEE: Grounds Committee
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Marti Tupper - Chairperson
Joel Lutz - Secretary
Elaine Anderson
Judy Nakdimen
Rosemary Campion
Betty Parzych
Ray Parzych
Stan Roberson

MEETING DATE: October 10, 2016

GUESTS PRESENT:
Sandy Nolan - Board Secretary
Peggy Zonca- Board Liaison
Guy Balok - Board President
Joe Poma - Property Manager
Kathleen Connor - Board Liaison

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Landscape plans: Three companies were asked to submit a landscape plan and design for the front of the clubhouse.
- Executive Landscape did not respond.
- Begonia Brothers submitted a quote for $7,347 without a design plan which would be additional.
- Plymouth Nursery submitted a quote for $4,954 which includes a one year warranty on all plants.
The Committee reviewed the design plan submitted by Plymouth Nursery, clarified the size and type of the plants, and the
number of bushes.
The price for cedar mulch was questioned and the possibility of having the mulch delivered and installed by maintenance to
save money was discussed. Joe suggested that Plymouth Nursery may not warrant the plantings if they do not use their own
mulch because of the possibility of mold or disease.
It was voted to accept Plymouth Nursery's plan as submitted.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: Approve the plan and pricing from Plymouth Nursery so that installation can begin in October or November of this year.

NEXT MEETING: April 2017

Minutes taken by Rosemary Campion, submitted by Marti Tupper, Chairperson
12

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT

COMMITTEE: Engineering Committee

MEETING DATE: October 11, 2016

MEMBERS PRESENT:
Thomas A. Werner - Chairman
Art Baynes, Co-Chairman
Lorraine Scully

GUESTS PRESENT:
Joe Poma - Property Manager
Kathleen Connor - Board Liaison
Peggy Zonca - Board Liaison

MODIFICATION REQUESTS REVIEWED:

Unit 10
Installation by:

Storm Door SD-2

Home Depot
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:
2

Unit 50
Installation by:

Unit 102
Installation by:

(3) Windows
Wallside
Meets HLCA Requirements

Unit 122
Installation by:

Unit 378
Installation by:

Doorwall PD-1
Wallside
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:
Entry Door ED-4
Christopher Hatcher
Meets HLCA Requirements

Unit 514
Installation by:

Notes:
4

Entry Door ED-5

Home Depot
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:

Notes:
3

Unit 367
Installation by:

Storm Door SD-2

Home Depot
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:
Load-Bearing Wall
Hometown Builders of Plymouth
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:
5

Unit 190
Installation by:

Doorwall PD-1
Wallside
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:

Amendment: Added Unit 454, hand rail to the list for approval.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: To approve modifications 1 - 8, and the amendment for unit 454
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at 3:00 p.m.
Submitted by Tom Werner, Committee Chairman
13

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT

COMMITTEE: Ecology Committee
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cathy Watkins - Chairperson
Liz Gannon co-chair
Diane Pittaway
Sharon Smith
Judy Nakdimen
Stan Roberson
Elaine Anderson
Brad Todorov

MEETING DATE: October 11, 2016

GUESTS PRESENT:
Jeff Fidge
Sandy Nolan - Board Secretary
Teri Garnet
Guy Balok - Board Liaison
Leslie Ottino
Michelle Todorov - Board Treasurer
Kristine Fenton
Kathy Baldwin - Board Vice President
Rosemary Campion

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Phragmites are turning brown and will be removed once completely dead.
2. The PVC tubes for fishing line disposal will be installed in the next few weeks.
3. Lids for the trash cans around the lakes have been purchased and will be installed along with caps for bridge posts that have
been used as cigarette ashtrays.
4. The two areas of ECO lawn: one doing well, the other needs more seed and soil.
5. Davey Tree will start clearing the wooded area near Silver Spring lake on November 7th!!
6. Discussion of how much buckthorn there is on the property and that is should be removed, especially while pruning or at
co-owner request.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: Highland Lakes purchase the buckthorn removal tool.

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.

Submitted by Cathy Watkins, Chairperson
14

HLCAs Most Unwanted Enemy

#1 Common Buckthorn
(Rhamnus cathartica)

Buckthorn is taking over our urban woods and parklands. You cannot walk in woods that are full of buckthorn. It is
growing on city lots, city, county, and state parks, wood lots, farm sites, hunting land, and along our rivers. Efforts to
control it will pay huge dividends now and for generations to come. We can reclaim our woods only if owners are
willing to remove it from private land and all citizens from public lands.
I DONT KNOW WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE
No one knew what it looked like until it overgrew so much that we couldnt miss it.
Absolutely the best way to learn what buckthorn looks like is to have someone show
you. Coming to a community pull is a fun way to learn how to identify the plant and to
see how removal is done.
The positive identification for buckthorn year round is to peal the thin bark with a utility
or pocket knife. If the layer under the bark is bright orange, it is buckthorn. The leaves
are egg shaped and shiny. The veins in the leaf are spread apart and end at the top of
the leaf. The trunk tends to have spikes. The older trees have the darkest bark in the
forest and can reach 25 ft. tall. The bark is too variable to use for identification. People have a hard time seeing the
older buckthorn trees unless it has the berries.
TOP PRIORITY: REMOVE TREES WITH BERRIES
Buckthorn plants with berries spread the nasty plant everywhere because they are junk food for birds. The berries are
delicious but contain no nutrition. The birds discharge the seeds undigested everywhere. The berries are green in
June and ripen to dark purple or black in August. They remain on the tree through November and some all winter.
Birds dont eat green berries so you can leave them on a brush pile with no worry. Ripe seeds have to be burned in
order to avoid spreading another 1000 plants.
There are two basic ways to get rid of buckthorn: Pulling it out by the roots or cutting it at ground level and
sponging on herbicide.
PULLING OUT THE ROOTS
There are many good tools to use to pull buckthorn out by its roots: hands, weed wrenches, spades, trowels, and
chains. The best tool is the one that is easiest to use given the size and quantity of the buckthorn. Children and older
adults can stoop, kneel, or sit on the ground or a stool and get rid of hundreds of small plants with only garden gloves.
Pulling by hand is dependent on how moist the soil is. In dry times, hand pulling is too difficult; the ground does not
give up the roots. A sharp trowel or small spade works best with hard ground.
CUTTING THE PLANT AT THE GROUND
There are many good tools to cut buckthorn: loppers, hand saws, chain saws and brush cutters. Cut as close to the
ground as possible. The downside is that herbicide must be applied immediately. The environmental impact of
herbicides is negligible if used with a sponge tipped applicator that prevents dripping on soil, water, and other plants.
Never spray herbicide, use an applicator. It saves money besides being environmentally responsible. You are only
interested in killing buckthorn, not the plants around it. There is one simple alternative to herbicides. After the stump is
cut, place a tin can larger than the stump and anchor with a rock or brick and keep it there for a year. This will work in
your backyard if you have just a few trees to cut down that cant be pulled.
HERBICIDES
The effective herbicide is 50% glyphosate better known as undiluted Roundup. Use an applicator to paint on larger
stumps. The big disadvantage is that it doesnt work April through June when the buds are breaking and sap is flowing
up. It is effective the other 9 months of the year and is much safer for the environment. Mark your applicator so you
know which product you have in it. Always protect your skin and eyes with any chemical.
HOW TO GET STARTED
Attend community buckthorn pulls where you can learn how it is done. Consider adopting a portion of a park or the
bike trail to clean out and monitor for regrowth. Consider using buckthorn removal as a volunteer job that gives you
eco-exercise and a great deal of satisfaction. If you are interested in volunteering or need more information, please
contact plantnative@lizgannon.com
15

CLUBHOUSE
HOLIDAY

DECORATING PARTY
Saturday, November 26th

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Please join the Clubhouse and
Community Social Committees to
decorate the Clubhouse and trim the trees.

All residents are welcome

- young and young at heart.

Join the fun, meet new

people and ring in the
Holiday Season with
family and friends!
Pizza and refreshments
will follow for all
participants.
16

St. Priscilla Bell Choir

Director, Pat Knorp
presents

Traditional Christmas
Sing-A-Long
December 2, 2016
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Refreshments provided
17

Youre invited to
the Highland Lakes Annual

Adult

Christmas Party
Saturday,

December 3, 2016
Beginning at 7:00 p.m.
in the Clubhouse
The perfect way to get in the
Holiday Spirit and celebrate the
season with your neighbors!
Bring your favorite dish to
share.
$1.00 per person at the door

BYOB
Prizes & 50/50 Raffle

18

Get Your

Gumdrops
READY!
Join us for Highland Lakes
Gingerbread Decorating Event!

Saturday, December 10:

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
We hope you join us for community fun and maybe
some friendly competition. All ages welcome!
THIS DECORATING PARTY WILL BE FUN AND DELICIOUS
FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Come make some Holiday inspired Gingerbread

Houses, snacks will be provided. Completed Houses
will be displayed around the Clubhouse for all to
enjoy. Put all your creative juices together to make
your own edible art!
Houses can be picked up between

December 21-23.
19

Tuscan Bread Soup

Ingredients:
4 slices crusty Italian bread, 1 inches thick
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1 large onion, chopped
6 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme (or teaspoon dried)
salt and pepper
cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 475 degrees. Place bread slices on baking
sheet, brush tops with 1 tablespoon oil, and bake until golden brown and crusty, 8 to 10 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, heat 3 tablespoons oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add onion and cook until lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook
fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add broth, cream, and thyme and simmer until onions are
softened, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Cut bread into 1-inch chunks and place in soup bowls. Ladle soup over bread, sprinkle
with Parmesan, and drizzle with olive oil. Serve.

Submitted by Joy Gaskin

20

Highland Lakes
Womens Club Luncheon

SAVE THESE
DATES:
November 3, 2016
@10:30 AM:

A tour of Braille Seedlings

2nd building in the back
14151 Farmington Rd.
followed by lunch at G. Subus
20300 Farmington Rd.
Livonia, MI
Arranged by Rosemary Campion

December 1, 2016 at noon:

Genettis ($22 per person, IN ADVANCE,

make checks out to Highland Lakes
Womens Club or cash)
108 E Main St
Northville, MI
Arranged by Peggy Zonca

All adult female residents of Highland Lakes are invited to meet with us
on the first Thursday of each month.
For further information about the Highland Lakes Womens
Club, you can contact
Bev Dudley at (248)349-4139 or leratcat@aol.com
21

Highland Lakes Condominium Association

FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEY CLEANING POLICY
(Short-Form)

Issued and Passed by the Board of Directors: October 1, 2005

The National Fire Protection Association (N.F.P.A.) cites one major cause of home heating res
as a lack of regular cleaning and resultant creosote and nesting material build-up in wood-burning
devices, associated chimneys and connectors.
Highland Lakes Condominium Association, in the interest of reducing the likelihood of res resulting
from improperly maintained replaces and chimneys, requires that all replaces and chimneys be
inspected and cleaned by a qualied, licensed and properly insured contractor on an annual basis.
This policy, as approved and adopted by the Board of Directors, is mandatory for all units containing
a replace.
Responsibilities:
Highland Lakes has adopted a Fireplace and Chimney Cleaning and Inspection Policy. The Association
shall be responsible for publishing co-owner notication in the Herald and making this program mandatory
for all units containing a replace.
Owners are responsible for ensuring access to each replace and chimney in accordance with normal
Association procedures, scheduling the annual inspection and cleaning, maintaining the replace and
appurtenant hardware and responsibly using the replace as designed.
The contractor shall diligently perform all duties per N.F.P.A. and building codes. The inspection and
cleaning report shall disclose in writing the name of the owner, street address, unit number, date of service,
name of technician, ndings of the inspection, description of the service provided and conrm that the
replace and appurtenant hardware and chimney are safe or unsafe for normal usage. A copy of this report
shall be given to the owner and a signed true copy to Highland Lakes. Further, if the replace is found
unsafe, the contractor shall red tag the unit and immediately notify the Property Manager or Maintenance
Superintendent, and the owner of the unit.
The owner(s) of each condominium unit shall be responsible for the cost to inspect, clean, and maintain
their units replace, ue and chimney. Repairs to the replace, rebox, rebricks, ue, and chimney up to
the point of the rooine shall be the sole responsibility of the condominium owner. Repairs to the chimney
roof enclosure, screen and/or vent pipe above the rooine shall be the responsibility of the Association.
Notes:
1) A full-copy of the Fireplace and Chimney Cleaning Policy is available free of charge, at the clubhouse, to
any co-owner or occupant.
2) Fireplaces and wood burning appliances are used to a greater extent during the winter months or colder
weather. This is the time when res typically occur due to a failure to clean and inspect. HLCA is advising
all residents of this issue. Your own inspection of your replace and the ability to see daylight as you look
up the chimney is not a sufcient determining factor that the replace is t for use. Creosote, ash deposits,
nesting material, etc. may be bound to the inside walls and look like the wall itself. A qualied professional
must do the work.
3) HLCA has business cards at the ofce for resident-recommended contractors that have done work here for
years. The price for the work is somewhat nominal.
4) Any questions should be directed to the administrative staff.
22

Carpet | Tile | Hardwood | Sanding & Refinishing | Laminate |

Vinyl

Did you know we have a recycle bin located

at the Clubhouse parking lot? Pick up is
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

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248.956.0131
248.924.2883

guineatmon@gmail.com

(248) 756-3418

HOME BEAUTY NUTRITION

Nutrition, Skin & Color
Consultation by
Appointment

MercerMike35@aol.com
Michael Mercer

www.amway.com/guineatmon

President

THE FLOORING
STORE AT YOUR
DOOR!

Call today for an appointment.

Mention this ad to receive
20% off your haircut with me.
Hope to see you soon!

THE

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Ive been practicing my craft for 30+ yrs and

just recently joined The Q-Hair Studio.
I would love to try something new with
your hair and create a new
summer expression for you , Lets Talk.

Paul Warddell

HAIR STYLIST
734.927.6690
630 STARKWEATHER
(OLD VILLAGE) PLYMOUTH, MI 48170
23

Looking to Sell Your Home?

I am passionate about Highland Lakes and I would love the opportunity to sell
your home. I work hard to bring proud homeowners into our neighborhood.
On average, my listings sell within 13 days on the market.

Call me today to get your home SOLD!

Around Town

November 4
First Friday Experience

5PM-9PM, Downtown Northville

November 8
Election Day

7AM-8PM, General Election Polls are Open!

Megan Atkinson
Highland Lakes

Resident & Realtor

(734) 414-3247

megan@pattimullen.com

November 10
Girls Night Out

6PM-10PM, Downtown Northville

November 18-19

Holiday Home Tour

10AM-4PM, Northville Community Foundation

November 18
Holiday Lighted Parade

Highland Lakes
Market Update

6:30PM-7:30PM, Downtown Northville

November 19-20
Greens Market in Town Square
10AM-4PM, Northville Town Square

Recently Sold in Highland Lakes:

November 20
Christmas in the Village

19865 Silver Spring

19644 Aqueduct Court
20141 Silver Spring
41292 Lehigh Court
42708 Lyric Court
19505 Whitman Court

12PM-4PM, Mill Race Village

Coming Soon!

19848 Irongate Court

(734) 414-3247
24

Offering the best makeup and beautification

products for every skin type and age.
YOUR INDEPENDENT BEAUTY CONSULTANT

www.youravon.com/geatmon
avonladyguinevere@gmail.com

www.marykay.com/geatmon
geatmon@marykay.com

Your Highland Lakes Realtor Connection

Twice the Knowledge, Twice the Experience,
Twice the Service!
Weve helped many of your neighbors and are
ready to help you. If you are thinking of buying
or selling, please give us a call!

Mary Ketelhut
734-634-8128

Real Estate One Northville / Novi

41430 Grand River Ave, Suite D
Novi, MI 48375

The Customer Experience is

the Heart of My Business

John OBrien
248-756-0414

Nobody works harder for

satisfactory results.

Claudia Hernandez
Highland Lake Resident Realtor

734-732-3674

chernandez@cbwm.com
201 CadyCentre, Northville

This is home.

This is where
awesomeness
happens.
25

WEIR MANUEL

AIR CONDITIONING TUNE-UP SPECIAL!

Senior
Discounts

WE SERVICE ALL BRANDS INCLUDING

Heating & air Conditioning

734-237-1249

HarrimanHeating.com

ROGER THE HANDYMAN

Need a light in
that closet?

R & H GLAZING, INC.

LICENSED & INSURED 23 YEARS EXPERIENCE GUARANTEED WORK
WE REPAIR ANY WOOD, VINYL OR ALUMINUM WINDOW
SPECIALIZING IN BROKEN, SEALFAILED & FOGGED

(734) 379-5355

Does the door

stick?

OR

(734) 422-5355

NO JOB
TOO SMALL...
WE BID THEM ALL!

Association Discounts
10 Year Warranty on Glass
Low E Reflective & Tinted Glass
Lowest Prices in Town
Parts Available for Most Windows
Completed Promptly & Efficiently
Two Weeks Service on Most Jobs

Painting, Carpentry, Electrical,

Plumbing, Drywall & Plaster Repair,
Wallpaper Removal, Leaky Fixtures,
Wax Rings, Install Ceiling Fans.

NO TRIP
CHARGE
FREE
ESTIMATE

DO YOUR WINDOWS HAVE...

Bonded and Insured

Seal Failure? Moisture in Glass?

Windows Dont Stay Up?
Stripe Failure?
Is Your Window Manufacturer
out of Business?

CALL NOW!

CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

1-888-391-4040
Sharon: 734-732-2066

Check Freon

RICK THE WINDOW DOC!

(734) 379-5355

roger: 734-732-0771
26

On site service to home or work for residential and

commercial vehicles.
We are an approved vendor with every insurance
company, network & fleet management and we can
assist with claims.
Specializing for over 15 years in windshield
replacement & chip repair.

www.flashglassauto.com

248-446-1234

SPECIAL
40 Gallon Gas
Water Heater

Installed for $790

I.S.E.

Garbage Disposal
Installed for $235

Family Owned
Est. 1898

OBRIEN
SULLIVAN

FUNERALS, CREMATIONS, PREARRANGEMENTS

41555 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48375-1822

248-348-1800

www.obriensullivanfuneralhome.com

Offering Pre Need & Aftercare Programs

27

South Lyon, MI

28

HIGHLAND LAKES HERALD AD RATES

All advertising accepted on a prepaid basis. Make checks payable to Highland Lakes Condominium
Association. The Highland Lakes Herald is distributed monthly to 691 homes. Copy requiring
resetting type will be charged design fees as per the following schedule and must be paid in advance.
1/8

SIZE

1/8 PAGE
3-3/4 X 2-1/2

1/4

1/4 PAGE
3-3/4 X 5

1/2

1/2 PAGE
7-1/2 X 5

Full Page

FULL PAGE
7-1/2 X 10

ONE MONTH

PREPAID YEARLY

$15.00

$165.00

$25.00

$275.00

$40.00

$440.00

$65.00

$715.00

Prepaid Yearly Price Includes ONE FREE MONTH!!

FULL PAGE CENTERFOLD / FRONT COVER / BACK INSIDE COVER
FULL PAGE $75.00
$825.00
INSERTS: $50 - Please submit 725 copies
* Free month with pre-paid 4 month commitment

CLASSIFIED ADS

DESIGN FEE: $25 (Does not apply to inserts)

* No fee with 1 year or 6 month prepaid commitment

Up to 30 words
(200 Characters)

Resident
$3.00

Non-Resident
$5.00

THE HERALD DEADLINE IS THE 20TH OF EACH MONTH

For more information, contact Emily in the Clubhouse: 248-349-4006 or email emily@hlca.us

29

Highland Lakes Court Liaisons

NOTE: ALL AREA CODES ARE 248 UNLESS INDICATED OTHERWISE

Anchor

Tracey Green........................321-4614

Althea

Sue Tocco............................ 348-3396

Amboy

Brad Todorov.........................380-1611

Andover

Pam Takacs...........................374-0864

Aqueduct
Vacant

Bryn Mawr

Robert Gorczyca............734-751-7828

Dartmouth

Sue Misiulis...........................344-4949

Dearborn

Jim Delaney..........................348-6554

Dorothy Gay

Renee Morris.................810-334-1434

Eddington

David Duey....................586-996-2098

Farragut

Lorraine Scully (B 89 & 90).......344-8703

Janice Booher (B 88)..............344-4229

Hayes

D. & G. Loudy (B 30, 31 & 32)

..................................................349-3308
Steve Sapp (B 28 & 29)
.......................................734-512-6890

Inlet

Betsy Byrne...........................207-6221

Irongate
VACANT

Ironwood

Esther Allison.................... 880-1673

Itham

Bob Rudolph......................924-2600

Juliet

Neptune

Lucy Curtis (B33)............349-0301

Robert Nulty
(B34, B35).......................349-0511

Norwood

Stan Savitskie .............. 946-4338

Eric Behrmann............734-934-0621

Kenyon

Oakland

Earl Smith.......................349-6478

Elizabeth Dombles..............Unlisted

Old Bridge

Linda Tomica.................. 349-6107

Lagoon

Marchelle Brotz...........517-525-1661

Lehigh

Pond

Diane Pittaway............... 347-1078

Vacant

Queen Anne

Lehigh Lane

Kathy Baldwin.................974-6688

Dianne Hartman.................229-3884

Leidel

Richards

Barbara Adams..................982-8247

Ralph Downey.................974-9625

Lilac

Beverly Brenner..............348-2982

Barbara Evans...................348-3087

Longwood

Sandy

Savoy

Mary Kraska............313-268-8516

Jim OConnor.....................344-6600

Lyric

Schoolhouse

Leslie Wilcox.......... ........449-6726

Minda Commire.................701-0004

Madison

Seabrook

Andrea Valle....................819-0704

Carolyn Toyer.....................348-9745

Malvern

Valiant

Ilio Alessandri ................ .449-6959

Judy Whelan (B 45)...........921-2125

Unlisted (B 46)

Mann

View Point

Stanley Roberson.....734-674-3600

Sharon Smith.....................348-0706

Whitman

Mariner

Windsor

Douglas Perrin....................Unlisted

30

Frank Jensen................. 880-2011

Tom Werner....................349-4459

protecting communities and

associations across Michigan.
Servicing all your insurance needs:
Condominium Associations
Homeowners Associations
Apartment Buildings
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Directors and Officers Coverage
Fidelity Bond Coverage
Equipment & Machinery Coverage
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248-257-5556

248-879-3100

merrick.maris@fbinsmi.com

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31

rrossell@fbinsmi.com

November 2016
SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

1
Yoga 9:30 a.m.

2
Ladies
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

3
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Euchre
Womens Club 6:00 p.m.
10:30 a.m.
Yoga 6:00 p.m.

SATURDAY
4

Court Liaison
Comm. 7:00 p.m.

13

8
Yoga
9:30
a.m.
Ladies
Clubhouse
Pinochle
Comm. 7:00 p.m.
12:30 p.m.

14

15
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Ladies
Pinochle
Engineering
Comm. 3:00 p.m. 12:30 p.m.

10
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
& 6:00 p.m.

11

12

16

17

18

19

25

26

Yoga 9:30 a.m. Euchre

& 6:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m.

Ecology Comm.
7:00 p.m.

20

21

22

Finance Comm. Yoga 9:30 a.m.

6:00 p.m.
Board Meeting
7:30 p.m.

27

28

23
Ladies
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.

29
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Ladies
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.

24
Happy
Thanksgiving
Clubhouse
Closed

30

1
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
Womens Club
12:00 p.m.
Yoga 6:00 p.m.
Court Liaison
Comm. 7:00 p.m.

6
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Ladies
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.

Christmas
Clubhouse
Decorating
Party 1-5 p.m.

Traditional
Christmas
Sing-A-Long
7-8 p.m.

8
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
& 6:00 p.m.

Adult
Christmas
Party 7:00 p.m.

10
Gingerbread
Decorating
Event 1-4 p.m.

CLUBHOUSE WINTER HOURS

M o n d a y - F r i d a y..........9 : 0 0 a .m. - 9 : 0 0 p .m.
Satur day. .. . . . . . . . n o o n - 9 : 0 0 p .m.

Su n d a y.............n o o n - 5 p.m.