Los Rancheros Association

OFFICERS
President: Norma Moore — 887-0463 • Vice President: Mary Dimsdale — 785-2571
Secretary: Marisa Leasure — 978-6778 • Treasurer: Suzanne Hicks — 887-3160

EXECUTIVE BOARD
Rey Abaya — 670-8711 • Jerry Abbott — 887-8237 • June Hart — 783-3639
Fran LaTorre — 887-1509 • Patty Little — 783-1534 • Julie Manzo — 783-1911
Juan Puyeo — 782-4624 • Judy Rodgers — 785-4894

RESIDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND COMMUNITY CONTACTS

Bingo . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ron Gomez — 782-5183 Dime Bingo . . . . . . . . Lorraine Schmuck — 783-7294
HMOA Rep . . . . . . . Fran La Torre — 887-1509 Lunch Bunch . . . . . . . Joy Cunningham — 785-4609
N.E.R.T. . . . . . . . . . Dawn Plaskon — 887-2199 Neighborhood Alert. . Darlene Richardson — 785-8780
Spectrum Meals (Tuesday and Thursday). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Horton — 732-6671

The EXECUTIVE BOARD meets the LAST THURSDAY of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the main clubhouse.
Los Rancheros RESIDENT’S ASSOCIATION meets the FIRST THURSDAY of the month
at 7:00 p.m. in the main clubhouse unless otherwise announced.

EL TORO — Jeanie Schultz — 784-1997 • e-mail el t o ro . e d i t o r @ c o m c a s t . n e t

Deadline for all submissions to the El Toro is the 10th of each month for the following month.

From the Editor EDITORIAL POLICIES

Articles that appear in the El Toro are presented as an
informational service to the residents. Contents are the option
of the editor but do not necessarily represent the opinion of
the editor, the homeowners association or management.
Reader response is welcome. Your article must be in
my paper tube at 28408 Granada Circle, or posted to my
e-mail address, no later than the 10th of the month. All
submissions must be signed with your name/phone num-
ber included, as any article must be verified. Your name
will not appear, if you so request.
Editor has the right to edit for space or libel. Articles
considered in bad taste will not be printed. Submissions
must meet the Editorial Guidelines set forth by the pub-
lishers, Mobile Home Park Magazines.
Whenever possible, the editor prefers to “capture key-
strokes” for material to appear in the El Toro. If you are
typing something up, you might as well type it directly into
an e-mail and send it to me that way. No e-mail? Well, OK,
submit the hard copy and we’ll manage.
PLEASE DO NOT “FORWARD” EMAIL. Forwarding results
in those little >> marks all through the copy, plus it exposes MY
e-mail address to YOUR whole broadcast list and I DON’T
want THEIR forwards. If you are submitting an item someone
e-mailed to you, COPY IT and PASTE it into a NEW e-mail
window to send to me at: eltoro.editor@comcast.net.
Thanks, Jeanie Schultz, editor
1
(http://mobilehomeparkmagazines.com/mhbsite/editorial/rules.aspx)
The Mobile Home Board publications informs and pro-
motes the mobile home system; residents, management
and those that serve the mobile home community.
The Mobile Home Board publications are not political
tools. They are a source of information and enjoyment for
park residents. To ensure this policy we have developed
the following guidelines:
Editorial Guidelines:
• Editor is responsible for gathering information and
sending it to us in a form they want. Each editor must
allow all resident’s organizations and management to par-
ticipate in the publication.
• The publication is not to be used for disputes by either
residents or management. Mobile Home Park Magazines
must remain neutral in all resident/management issues to
preserve the integrity of the magazine. Not all residents
are on one side or the other of an issue. Since we do not
research each story, we cannot use Mobile Home Park
Magazines to weigh either side of these very fragile rela-
tionships.
• Resident political organizations are asked to limit their
information to meeting notices and reports of chapter
meetings. • No listings of in-park-services (i.e. babysitting,
handymen, Avon, etc.)
 Come
to
the
Los Rancheros
Association Meeting

THURSDAY, Join us for

November 6, 2008
at 7:00 p.m. BINGO
in the main clubhouse. First and Last
EVERYBODY THAT LIVES HERE is asked to Saturdays
attend (not just the homeowner).
of each month,
Next meeting:
THURSDAY, December 4, 2008
NOON TO 3:00 P.M.
Snack bar open before play
ELECTION DAY is and during breaks
serving nachos, hot dogs, sodas, snacks.
NOVEMBER 4, 2008
Ron Gomez, coordinator 782-5183

VOTE! Volunteer help is appreciated, call Ron for info.

NOTICE
Per state law, no one under the age
of 18 is allowed in the clubhouse
during Bingo

COFFEE
is available in the
Clubhouse daily
during office hours for
residents of Spanish Ranch I.
Spanish Ranch I Information
has moved to page 15.
2
 & Craft Faire

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Sponsored by Los Rancheros Charities.

HOLIDAY CRAFTS and GIFT ITEMS GALORE !

Bargains • Gifts • Baked Goods
(get a jump on your holiday shopping plus take home dessert)

Contact: Kevin Kelly, 589-8119

for more information.
TABLES RESERVED FIRST COME FIRST SERVED.
Call Kevin to see if there are any tables left.
Cost $15/table or 2/$25.

SNACK BAR WILL BE OPEN!

Coffee/doughnuts! Come have lunch!
Note to vendors:
The clubhouse will be open at 7 p.m. Friday evening for setup to
vendors only. You must cover your table to protect the surface
before set up. No tires or excessively greasy or dirty items, please.

3
 Join the SPANISH RANCH I
Ladies Club RESIDENT INFORMATION
at noon on the www.spanishranch1.blogspot.com
second The web address is not case-sensitive, but you MUST
use a number 1 (one) and not a roman numeral I (i).
Thursday The El Toro is posted here.
for

DIME BINGO! Ladies Club invites all Ladies

at SR-I
Ladies! Bring your lunch to come join us at any of our events. Get acquainted!

and let’s get together.

Dessert provided.
LUNCH
BUNCH
It costs only a dime a game, The Lunch Bunch meets
winner take all! on the third THURSDAY
+ .25 for the bank which gets raffled back to (unless otherwise
somebody at the first gathering in January. announced) of each
month at noon (earlier
Come to the Main club- for carpooling). All are
house on the Second welcome.
Thursday, at noon! 2008
Nov 20 TBA
For more information call Dec Christmas Party
Lorraine Schmuck 783-7294 Coordinator:
Joy Cunningham,
785-4609
Ladies Dime Bingo is for mature women who
would like to get together for sharing ideas. SCHEDULES SUBJECT
TO CHANGE.
DIME BINGO!
Ladies!
Bring your lunch and
let’s get together.
Dessert provided.
It costs only a dime a
game, winner take all! +
.25 for the bank which
gets raffled back to
somebody each January.
Come to the Main
clubhouse on the
Second Thursday,
at noon! For more
information call
Lorraine Schmuck
783-7294
Dime Bingo Dessert
Schedule:
November: Joy
December: Christmas Party

IF IT’S NOT YOURS, DON’T LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

FEED IT!
Sure, you feel sorry for that stray cat or dog,
but if you feed it, it WILL stick around and per-
haps not go back to it’s rightful family.
Don’t leave pet food outside!
Food left out will attract
raccoons, stray pets,
opossums, and other
varmints!
Only indoor pets are permitted
in the park so don’t
encourage outside
animals to stay!
4
Letters to the Editor are welcome on any
subject. Send to:
eltoro.editor@comcast.net.
(You MUST sign your name but
we won’t use it if you don’t want
us to.)
Newspaper Tubes
Newspaper tubes donated by the local news-
papers are used to notify residents of events via
flyers and the monthly park magazine. Please call
the office and let them know if you need a tube
installed at your home. 783-5535
 Comedy Corner
(most copyright info unknown - web-exchange)
Potato Garden
An old man lived alone in Idaho. He
wanted to spade his potato garden,
but it was very hard work. His only
son, Bubba, who used to help him,
was in prison. The old man wrote a
letter to his son and described his
predicament.
Dear Bubba,
I am feeling pretty bad because it
looks like I won't be able to plant my
potato garden this year. I'm just get-
ting too old to be digging up a garden
plot. If you were here, all my troubles
would be over. I know you would dig
the plot for me. Love Dad
A few days later he received a letter
from his son.
Dear Dad,
For heaven's sake, dad, don't dig up
that garden, that's where I Buried the
BODIES. Love Bubba
At 4A.M. the next morning, F.B.I.
agents and local police showed up
and dug up the entire area without
finding any bodies. They apologized
to the old man and left. That same
day the old man received another
letter from his son.
Dear Dad,
Go ahead and
plant the potatoes now.
It's the best I could do
under the circum-
stances. Love Bubba.
Submitted online by Cetrysha-freejokesonline.com
contributed by S. Higman (no. 169)
Blonde...Infant Scale
At a pharmacy, a blonde asked to use
the infant scale to weigh the baby she
held in her arms. The clerk explained
that the device was out for repairs,
but said that she would figure the infant's weight
by weighing the woman and baby together on the
adult scale, then weighing the mother alone and
subtracting the second amount from the first.
"That won't work," countered the woman. "I'm not
the mother, I'm the aunt."
Why ENGLISH is so Hard to Learn
1) The bandage was wound around the wound.
2) The farm was used to produce produce.
3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more
refuse.
4) We must polish the Polish furniture.
5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.
6) The soldier decided to desert
his dessert in the desert.
7) Since there is no time like the
present, he thought it was
time to present the present.
8) A bass was painted on the
head of the bass drum.
9) When shot at, the dove dove
into the bushes.
10) I did not object to the object.
11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to
row.
13) They were too close to the door to close it.
14) The buck does funny things when the does are
present.
15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer
line.
16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to
sow.
17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.
18) After a number of injections my jaw got number.
19) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.
20) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
5
 NEIGHBORHOOD A L E RT
S e p t e m b e r ’s
Neighborhood
Alert meeting
was very enlight-
ening. The guest
speaker was a
member of the Hayward street nar-
cotics team. He explained the dif-
ferent narcotics, street names, how
they were used and the effect it had
on people. Crystal methampheta-
mine is very big in Alameda
County. The drug of choice in
Hayward seems to be crack cocaine.
These Neighbor Alert meetings are
open to everyone, they are the last
Wednesday of the month.
Hayward Police are asking for
any information on gangs that you
might have. You can call John Lage
Submit a police report online
You can complete and submit a
police report online for seven types
of non-emergency incidents:
• harassing phone calls *
• hit and run
If the
• lost property incident
• theft is an
• vandalism Emergency,
• vehicle burglary CALL
• vehicle tampering. 9-1-1
GO TO
http://www.hayward-ca.gov/
Under Online Services, click
Police Reports
Before using the online reporting
system, be aware that the incident
must meet the following conditions:
—Be a non-emergency.
Call 9-1-1 if the incident is an
emergency.
—Have occurred within the
Hayward City limits only, not
in another city, nor in the unincor-
porated areas of Alameda County,
nor on a State freeway.
If the incident happened in
another city, call the police depart-
ment in that city. If the incident
happened on a State freeway, call
the California Highway Patrol
office nearest you. If the incident
happened in the unincorporated
area of Alameda County (Ashland,
Castro Valley, Cherryland, Fair-
mont Terrace, Fairview, Mt. Eden
and San Lorenzo) contact the
at H.P.D. and leave a message, it
can be unanimously or you can e-
mail him at:
John.lage@Hayward.ca.gov.
It has been stated that
Neighborhood Watch does not sup-
port Los Ranchos Association. We
do support the association. We also
support management and the
Hayward Police. We do not get
involved in the politics of the park.
Neighborhood Watch does try and
promote peace and harmony with
all residents. We work with man-
agement and the H.P.D. on drugs
and crime here in the park.
Blight was a problem in the park
in the past but has gotten better.
Ninety percent of all crimes are
Alameda County Sheriff's
Department.
—Have no known suspects.
This means neither you nor
someone else knows who did the
crime, or that person's location, or
the license plate of the vehicle
driven by those who committed the
crime.
—Not involve Identity Theft.
Police reports regarding identify
theft are not taken online. If you
are a victim of identity theft and
a Hayward resident, please call
510-293-7272.
If the non-emergency incident
occurred in the Hayward city
limits, but does not meet the other
conditions listed above, call
510-293-7272.
After completing and sub-
mitting the online report:
• You will get a case number, and
be able to print a copy of the report.
• Your report will be reviewed by
a police officer.
• You may be contacted if further
investigation of your case is
needed.
Note: Filing a false police report
is a crime.
*If you are reporting a Harassing
Phone Call, there is an additional step
required: After filing a report, call SBC
Security (1-800-698-7223) with the
report number for more instructions.
6
drug related. We had a terrible rash
of burglaries last year in the park.
Most of the people implicated in
these have either moved away or
were arrested.
As of late I have not heard of too
much crime in the park. One new
resident did have a very bad wel-
coming and they reported it. If the
crimes aren’t reported it is very
hard to help. I know some of the
neighbors reported at the associa-
tion meeting that strangers were
walking up to their doors. Instead
of reporting to H.P.D., management
and Neighborhood Alert, one
neighbor chased the intruder with
a baseball bat. That is not recom-
mended as now days you have no
idea if that person is carrying a
weapon or what.
National Night Out was criti-
cized for not having enough food.
Yes, we ran out of food. To our sur-
prise we had many more residents
attend this year. Next year we will
plan for more residents and hope-
fully have more activities for the
children. Last year, 2007, the asso-
ciation donated $150.00, this year,
2008 they donated $50.00.
Most of you know that I have
sold my house. Surprisingly, it sold
quicker than I had anticipated. I
eventually will be moving out of the
area but one of the residents asked
me to stay and be on her rental
agreement. So I also have a home
here in the park and you will be
seeing me from time to time.
Darlene Richardson has gra-
ciously offered to take over
Neighborhood Watch for me. This is
a volunteer position and there are
requirements from the Hayward
Police department that Darlene has
met. You can always call her.
Neighborhood Watch meetings
are the second Tuesday of the
month at the main clubhouse at
7 p.m. Thanks for all your support.
Stay alert, keep safe.
Linda Moniz,
Neighborhood Watch
510-461-1131
Darlene Richardson,
Neighborhood Watch
510-785-8780
 Fire Safety on Thanksgiving
With fire-wise common sense,
you can make sure tragedy does
not come between you and the fes-
tive holiday you have planned.
Follow these fire prevention tips to
help you and your family have a
safe and happy Thanksgiving.
—Keep your family and
overnight guests safe with a work-
ing smoke detector on every level of
the house, in every bedroom, and in
the halls adjacent to the bedrooms.
Test smoke detectors monthly and
replace batteries at least twice a
year.
—Overnight guests should be
instructed on the fire escape plan
and designated meeting place for
your home.
—Have a fire extinguisher avail-
able not more than 10 feet from the
stove, on the exit side of the room.
—A 2-1/2 lb. class ABC multi-
purpose dry chemical extinguisher
is recommended. Know how to use
your fire extinguisher.
—Start holiday cooking with a
clean stove and oven.
—Keep the kitchen off-limits to
young children and adults that are
not helping with food preparations
to lessen the possibility of kitchen
mishaps.
—When cooking, do not wear
clothing with loose sleeves or dan-
November 11, 2008
7:00 p.m.
in the Clubhouse
Come join your neighbors and
bring your good ideas for making
our park safe, drug-free
and a nice place to live!
gling jewelry. The clothing can
catch on fire and the jewelry can
catch on pot handles, causing spills
and burns.
—Cook on the back burners
when possible and turn pot handles
in so they don’t extend over the
edge of the stove. STOP
—Never leave cooking unattend- GRAFFITI
ed. If you must leave the kitchen
while cooking, turn off the stove or
REWARD
have someone else watch what is PROGRAM
being cooked.
—Keep Thanksgiving decora-
tions and kitchen clutter away
from sources of direct heat.
—Candles are often part of holi-
$500
day decorations. Candles should
never be left burning when you are REWARD
away from home, or after going to RECOMPENSA
bed. Candles should be located
where children will not be tempted
to play with them, and where For information that
guests will not accidentally brush
leads to the arrest and
against them. The candle holder
should be completely noncom- conviction of graffiti
bustible and difficult to knock over.
The candle should not have com-
vandals in Hayward.
bustible decorations around it.
—If smoking is allowed inside,
Para información que
provide guests with large, deep
ashtrays and check them frequent- dará lugar a la detención
ly. After guests leave, check inside
y a la convicción de los
and under upholstery and in trash
cans for cigarette butts that may be delincuentes de graffiti
smoldering. en Hayward.
Please Report
Vandalism:
Call:
Please — call the 510-583-5500
police and then the English & Español
office if you see anyone
vandalizing property in
the Park such as break- More info:
ing street lights, signs www.hayward-ca-gov
and back gate key pad,
etc.
Please report any- REPORT PROBLEMS IN YOUR
thing suspicious. NEIGHBORHOOD TO
Darlene Richardson 785-8780
Thank you, Teresa (file a complaint, too or call the
Cruz, SR-1 Manager police, 293-7000.)
7
 Neighborhood Watch
Know Your Neighbors!
Courtesy of Los Rancheros Association

Across Left Across Across Right

Your
Home

Report a Crime
Next Door to Left POLICE • FIRE • RESCUE Next Door to Right

911 Fill in your neighbors’ names on

this handy reference sheet.
In an emergency you’ll need this
information, but in the meantime you’ll
Please do your share! know who to call if you spot a problem
your neighbor should know about.
Let’s all watch out for each other! Let’s get acquainted!
8
 Travel Tips for the Holiday Season (or anytime)
from The Police Notebook
When you travel, know where you are going
and how to get there and back. Check for con-
struction detours; for longer trips, get a weather
forecast.
Check conditions
If traveling out-of-state, most state law
enforcement agencies provide
road-and-highway information;
check to see what conditions
they report before leaving.
Inform a family member where
you will be and when to expect
you back; give them your route
if they don't know it.
Travel and conduct your business during day-
light hours if possible. Lock doors and windows
when getting into your car and keep them locked
while driving.
Take your cell phone
If you have access to a cellular telephone, carry
or take it. If possible, know the emergency cell
codes for the area you're in. All the western states
use 9-1-1. In addition, Nevada’s highway patrol
can be reached at star-N-H-P (*647) and Idaho’s
state police at star-I-S-P (*477).
When driving, keep doors locked and windows
rolled up. Maintain at least half a tank of fuel, and
keep vehicle in good repair.
If planning a "road trip" over the holidays,
have your vehicle serviced and checked out suffi-
ciently far ahead to allow for repairs if needed.
Don’t forget to have the mechanic check your
spare tire and all fluid levels along with the other
preventive maintenance procedures.
Consider keeping spare fuses and a "break-
down kit" in your vehicle at all times. Breakdown
kits may be purchased from a variety of sources, or
you can assemble your own at any auto parts or
hardware store using a commercial version as a
guideline.
Breakdown Kit
Minimally, a "breakdown kit" should include:
• a thermal blanket/bag and a gallon of water
• a “HELP” sign/flag and flares/reflectors
• a flashlight (check batteries semi-annually)
• duct tape
9
Also consider carrying:
• a set of jumper cables, a tire gauge, and work
gloves
• a few hand tools (pliers, screwdrivers, Allen
wrenches)
• some rope and at least one bungee cord
• towels and a roll of toilet paper (in a plastic bag)
• a small 12-volt tire-inflator
• an empty (new, never used) one-gallon gas can
• change for a payphone and a pair of comfortable
shoes
• a cheap/disposable rain coat/suit/poncho
All these items can fit in a small or medium
size gym/duffle bag or a box and kept in your vehi-
cle's trunk, back-seat floorboard, or other storage
area in the vehicle. Keep it updated, but never
remove it from your vehicle.
In addition to your basic "breakdown kit" you
should also have a basic first aid kit in your vehi -
cle at all times.
Fire Extinguisher
Also consider purchasing and mounting a
small ABC-rated portable fire extinguisher in your
vehicle. Buy one with a "mount" designed for use
in vehicles. Portable fire extinguishers should be
securely "mounted" in the vehicle to prevent
rolling and damage. The extinguisher should be
visible and easy to reach. Mount the bracket on a
strong, stable surface. It can be mounted in any
sloping, vertical or horizontal position.
Where’s the spare?
Know how to access your spare tire and jack.
Vehicle owners should also consider obtaining tow-
ing insurance, either as a rider on their automo-
bile insurance policy (such riders are usually very
inexpensive for excellent coverage) or by joining
an automobile club or other provider. Be prepared!
Top off
It doesn't cost any more to keep the top quar-
ter of your tank filled than it does to keep the bot-
tom quarter filled. Even if you're pressed for time,
take time to fill up the tank. Making a habit of
checking your fuel gauge whenever you start dri-
ving, and routinely "topping off" your tank, can
prevent unexpected, untimely and dangerous
roadside emergency situations.
 Come and Eat!! It’s a SNAP!
(Senior Nutrition and Activities Project)

All SR-1 seniors are eligible and invited to participate in

SPECTRUM MEALS
A government-sponsored program for seniors over 55.
Es un programa guvernamental para ancianos mas de 55 años.

Tuesdays & Thursdays in the main SR1 Clubhouse

(except holidays)
Martes y Jueves en el Clubhouse (menos dias feriados)

NOTE! Signups are required. You must call before noon the day before.
Tiener que registrarse antes de doce un dia nates. Llamen a Ruth Horton 732-6671.

Call Ruth Horton — 732-6671

for reservations or information. (Help is invited, too.)

Meal served at 4:30 p.m. Come early to socialize.

Las comidas estaran servidas a las 4:30 p.m.
Illegue temprano para socialisar se lon ellos.

$3.25 at door • Non-seniors/Guests $4.75 • 10 Dinner Tickets: $30.00

$3.25 en la puerta. • Los invitados pueden atendes por $4.75.
Donations are always accepted.
Meals include fish, BBQ chicken, vegetarian spaghetti, salads, soups (more so in winter),
pork chops, hamburger, lasagna, and — always a dessert! Milk is included with each meal.
NOTE: on days soup is scheduled, you can substitute
a hamburger or veggie burger! A Spectrum menu is posted in the SR-1 clubhouse.

More information: Food is delivered hot from a central facility.

Volunteers monitor the temperature of the food as it arrives and served and keep a log
as required by the government.
All SR1 seniors are eligible and invited to participate.
Dinner is served 5 nights a week at the Josephine Lum Lodge at W. Tennyson and Oliver.
(Lunch is served at 11:30 daily — same menu.) Phone 785-1997.

10
 Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Your Pets
Pet care expert, magazine
columnist and radio and televi-
sion pet care personality,
Charlotte Reed discusses keep-
ing your pet safe during the
Thanksgiving holiday.
“The fragrant smell of
Thanksgiving dinner permeat-
ing throughout your home is
likely to whip your four-legged
friend into a food frenzy,” says
Reed.
“Unfortunately, the holiday
meal could be lethal for your pet
but by following a few simple
precautions, you will ensure the
upcoming holiday weekend will
be happy and healthy for the
entire family.”
Charlotte suggests when
planning for Thanksgiving, con-
sider the following:
1. Don’t give your animal dif-
ferent food than they would nor-
mally get. Feeding turkey to
your dog or cat can cause him or
her unwanted abdominal pain,
vomiting or diarrhea, none of
which are welcome during this
festive weekend.
2. Discourage your family
members and guests from
indulging your pet with inap-
propriate snacks. Food high in
sodium (especially peanuts and
chips) and other fatty foods like
poultry skin, beef or pork fat can
cause an inflammation of pan-
creas. Pancreatitis is potentially
life-threatening condition.
3. Dispose of aluminum foil,
plastic wrap, and wax paper
from holiday foods. If your pet
can get to it, he or she will lick
the food off foils or wraps. The
swallowing of such coverings
can cause an intestinal obstruc-
tion.
4. Secure your
garbage. It only
takes a minute
for your little
scavenger to get into the
garbage and wolf down whatev-
er smells good-including the
string used to tie the turkey.
5. Keep chocolate away from
your dog. Chocolate, which con-
tains theobromine and caffeine,
can be harmful to your pooch.
Rapid breathing and hyperac-
tivity are signs of bad reaction
to chocolate.
6. Turkey bones are also
dangerous for your pet. Any
brittle, spiky bone could lodge in
the esophagus or cause an irri-
tation of his or her stomach or
intestines.
7. Maintain his regular
schedule for feeding and exer-
cise. Minimizing the stress of
animal means being aware of
his daily routine and expecta-
tions. Pay as much attention to
your pet as usual so that he will
not feel neglected or insecure.
8. Keep your pet home and
away from parade celebrations.
With the large crowds, your pet
can become stressed or even
worse, can get lost in the crowd.
Changes to Your Home
Require a Permit!
Did you know that a permit
is required when you make
most physical changes to your
home?
The State Department of
Housing & Community Develop-
ment (HCD) requires a permit
for exterior changes, such as:
• awning extensions
• room additions
• air conditioner installations
• storage shed construction
• porches
• decks
• water heater replacement
11
9. Make sure your furry
friend has fresh water at all
times. Frequently check your
pet’s water bowl to make sure
the supply is clean. Busy chil-
dren and relatives may bump a
bowl and spill the water.
10. Provide a quiet
refuge for your animal.
With all the holidays
fanfare, you pet will need
a “time out” from visiting
friends and family. A
comfortable crate is
one solution; a room with a “Do
Not Disturb” sign is another.
Give your dog or cat time and
space to settle down or take a
nap.
11. Keep current registra-
tion and identification tags on
your pet. With guests coming in
and out of your home, it is very
easy for a door to be left ajar and
for your animal to wander off.
By being aware of these dan-
gers to your pet, you can ensure
both you and your pet the best
possible holidays.
Park managers are required
by HCD to sign off on a permit
application for exterior items.
HCD requires permits for
changing your homes’ interior
as well, but management does
not get involved in this area.
The management office has
plot plan forms required for
the permit application.
Teresa Cruz, park manager
ARC Management Co.
Is your contractor licensed?
Check at www.cslb.ca.gov/
 New CARE income levels; New Family Electric Rate
Assistance (FERA) program
By Edward G. Poole
Effective June 1, 2008, there are new income levels to determine if a person or household qualifies
for the 20% California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) discount provided by the electric and gas util-
ities. From June 1, 2008, to May 31, 2009, the income levels have increased over current levels, and con-
tinue to be based on the number of persons in one household:
1 or 2 persons $30,500 5 persons $50,600
3 persons $35,800 6 persons $58,000
4 persons $43,200 Each additional person $ 7,400
To be a CARE household, the total gross income from all sources, both taxable and nontaxable,
must be less than the totals shown in the above chart. Persons who are claimed as a dependent on anoth-
er person's income tax return will not be eligible to be considered part of a household. For any person in
the household receives public assistance (Medi-Cal, Food Stamps, AFDC/TANF, WIC, or LIHEAP),
CARE is also available.
The CARE discount is for both gas and electric service. It is important that community owners com-
municate the new income levels to residents. In addition, under the Public Utilities Code, community
owners are required to post, in a conspicuous place, the applicable prevailing residential gas and elec-
tric rate schedule as published by the serving utility.
FERA Program Household Income Guidelines
Updated Effective June 1, 2008, for electricity customers of PG&E, SDG&E, SCE
The FERA(Family Electric Rate Assistance) program is for households of three or more persons with
total income that falls between 175% and 250% of the federal poverty limits.
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program
The PUC adopted a program to assist lower-middle Check this out, too
income households with electric rates by permitting Tier If you have already completed and were
3 electric rates to be charged at Tier 2 rates in order for approved for the C.A.R.E. program (which
certain residential customers to afford basic energy reduces your cost of electricity and gas),
needs. Residents receiving the benefit of CARE for their you may be eligible for a reduction in your
submetered electric bills, or those receiving medical base-
WASTE Management fee.
line benefits, are not eligible for the FERA program.
You may obtain the application for this
Instructions: Take the number of persons in the program at the:
household who live there more than 50% of the time, and
City Clerk's office
add up their incomes from all eligible sources (see list
below table). The total combined annual income should City Hall - B Street
be less than or equal to the amount shown in the table. OR BY CALLING
510-583-4642
A household's gross annual income may not exceed
these amounts: They will mail it to you.
Number of Persons Total Combined Once you have completed the applica-
in Household Annual Income tion and attached the required documents
(one being proof of income), return the
1 or 2 Not Applicable
application to City Hall where you received
3 $35,801 to $44,800 it. They will tell you how long it will take for
4 $43,201 to $54,000 review of your application and a decision
5 $50,601 to $63,200 sent to you. Generally if you received
6 $58,001 to $72,400 C.A.R.E. rates then you should qualify for
Each Additional Person + $7,400 to $9,200 this program as well. It doesn’t hurt to ask!

New forms available from utilities

In order to implement the FERA program, the utilities have provided and made available new appli-
cation forms. The forms are substantially similar to the CARE forms previously available.
Edward G. Poole is an attorney and partner with the San Francisco law firm of Anderson & Poole, represent -
ing clients in utility matters. He is also a utilities consultant for WMA.
12
 WEAR WHITE AT NIGHT! LIGHT UP
Out for a Walk? YOUR LIFE
Going to the Neighbors? AND
We Can’t See You OURS TOO!
Leave your porch
in the Dark! light on at night!
It doesn’t have to break the bank.
Wear something WHITE or You can use:
REFLECTIVE even if it’s just to throw a ☛ light sensors that will turn your light
white sweater over your shoulders or around on automatically at dusk and off at
your waist. This simple precaution could
prevent a tragedy.
dawn.
☛ motion-activated lights
☛ solar-powered walkway
SAFETY FIRST lights or spotlights

IN THE HOT TUB For more information

about these things, come
The following are not allowed in the hot tub enclosure: to the Neighborhood Watch meeting
NO Food • NO Glass the second Tuesday
of every month,
NO Floating Devices
at 7 p.m. in the clubhouse
NO Toys (including squirt guns)
NO Pets
Approved swimwear only
Use common sense and care when using the
hot tub. Minors should always be
accompanied by a parent or adult.
Shower before entering the hottub and
get out to use the bathroom.

THWART THE
THIEVES!
Put your mail in the
U.S. POSTAL SERVICE

MAILBOX
located in front of the
Main Clubhouse close to the
street (near the Park map).
13
 Resident Suggestion / Objection Form
We welcome your views and suggestions on how to improve the quality and range of services we provide at
the community you reside. This form will allow residents to provide feedback to management on services,
suggestions for improvements, or general concerns.
While we are attempting to promote a harmonious community atmosphere, sometimes incidents occur which
may infringe on your enjoyment of the Park or perhaps you may have a suggestion or positive feedback to
share. In order to remedy the situation when appropriate, we request all complaints and/or suggestions to be
submitted to management in writing.

Type of communication: (Please check one that applies)

____Concern about Park Facilities ____Concern about Park Management

____Concern about park residents ____Suggestion
____Positive Feedback ____Other: _________________________________________

Name of Community: ______________________________________________ Space Number:_____________________

Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Full Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Detail suggestion, feedback, incident or concern (specify date, time and place if applicable):
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What action do you think is appropriate?

________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Because of repeated complaints, in extreme cases, eviction proceedings may be initiated against an offend-
ing park resident. In compliance with California law, it may be necessary to use this statement for documen-
tation purposes. Consequently we cannot insure complete confidentiality.

Signed: _____________________________________________________________________Dated:_____________________

Print name:_____________________________________________________________________________________________

______ This form is for informational purposes only and does not require a response.
______ I wish for a response. My telephone number is:_____________________________________________________

Management Office Use Only: Received On:__________________ Form of Delivery: __________________

Disposition __________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Equal Housing Opportunity

Please provide a copy of this form to the Los Rancheros Association Board and keep a copy for yourself.
14
 Food Safety and Happy Visiting
Food Safety
• Bacteria are often pre-
sent in raw foods. Fully cook
meats and poultry, and thor-
oughly wash raw vegetables
and fruits.
• Be sure to keep hot liq-
uids and foods away from the
edges of counters and tables,
where they can be easily
knocked over by a young
child's exploring hands.
• Wash your hands fre-
quently, and make sure your
children do the same.
• Never put a spoon used
to taste food back into food
without washing it.
• Always keep raw foods
and cooked foods separate,
and use separate utensils
when preparing them.
• Always thaw meat in the
refrigerator, never on the
countertop.
• Foods that require refrig-
eration should never be left
at room temperature for
more than two hours.
Happy Visiting
• Clean up immediately
after a holiday party. A tod-
dler could rise early and
choke on leftover food or
come in contact with alcohol
or tobacco.
• Remember that the
homes you visit may not be
childproofed. Keep an eye out
for danger spots.
• Keep a laminated list
with all of the important
phone numbers you or a
baby-sitter are likely to need
in case of an emergency.
Include the police and fire
department, your pediatri-
cian and the national Poison
Help Line, 1-800-222-1222.
• Traveling, visiting family
members, getting presents,
shopping, etc., can all
increase your child's stress
levels. Trying to stick to your
child's usual routines, includ-
ing sleep schedules and tim-
ing of naps, can help you and
your child enjoy the holidays
and reduce stress.
—American Academy of Pediatrics

Spanish Ranch #1 Information

EL TORO MAGAZINE is published monthly and distributed
around the first of the month. Dates and times of activities are
noted on the calendar therein. Special activities will be
announced in the regular section of pages.
RESIDENT MANAGERS/OFFICE
Manager: Teresa Cruz, Rutherford Investment Co.
Office hours: 9-12 and 1:30-4 Monday-Friday.
Office address: 28400 Granada Circle
Rent may be dropped in mail slot in office door (next
to laundry room on front side of bldg.)
Phone: 510-783-5535
Shari and Kenny Bachmann, relief managers
On-call for emergencies Sat.-Sun.-Holidays
In an emergency, call 510-783-5535.
Answering service will contact managers as needed.
ORGANIZATIONS
The Los Rancheros Association and the Spanish Ranch #1
Ladies Club are automatically comprised of park residents.
There are no dues.
MEETINGS of the Los Rancheros Association are the FIRST
THURSDAY of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Main
Clubhouse unless otherwise announced.
LADIES CLUB meets the SECOND THURSDAY of each
month at 12 NOON in the Main Clubhouse.
The LUNCH BUNCH meets the THIRD THURSDAY of
each month to go out to lunch at various area restaurants.
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH meets the SECOND TUESDAY.
BINGO is the FIRST and LAST SATURDAY of each month.
15
SWIMMING POOL / HOT TUB
Pool open May-October. Hot Tub open year round.
TRANSPORTATION
#391 SHOPPER’S SPECIAL — Leaves hourly beginning
10:10 a.m. on TUES. and FRI. for SOUTHLAND from front
of Main Clubhouse. RETURNS at Noon, 1 and 2 p.m. Ask for
transfer if you plan to return on the bus.
#77 AC TRANSIT BUS — Leaves for downtown every hour
5:52 am-5:52 p.m. M-F. Bus stops outside the park across
from Ruus Park. To go to Tennyson Shopping Center, bus
stops at corner of Ruus Park. Catch return bus at Tampa side
of shopping center. Sat.-Sun. service 8:31 am-6:31 pm
AC TRANSIT FARES — $1.75 ages 18-64, ages 5-17 and
65+ is 85¢. Transfer good for 1.5 hours is an additional 25¢.
MISCELLANEOUS
The Clubhouses are available to residents for private affairs.
Contact the Office, 510-783-5535
The POOL ROOM inside Main Clubhouse is available for
residents to use. See the office for a key.
COMPLAINTS/SUGGESTIONS/REPORTS
are to be submitted to Park Management in WRITING and
must be SIGNED. For any complaints or suggestions
concerning safety, maintenance, replace/repair, give a
copy to the the Executive Board as well as the Office. These
also must be in writing and must be signed.
THERE IS A RESIDENT REPORT FORM IN THIS
ISSUE OFTHE EL TORO.
 N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 8
SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT

OCT 26 OCT 27 OCT 28 OCT 29 OCT 30 OCT 31 1

Hal’ween BINGO
BUS SPECTRUM Party 12-3
10 A.M. DINNER 4:30 6-9
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Daylight SPECTRUM Homeowners
Savings DINNER Association
4:30 p.m.
Ends Meeting
Election Day 7:00 p.m.

SPECTRUM
BUS DINNER BUS
10 A.M. 4:30 p.m. 10 A.M.

9 10 11 12 13 14 15
El Toro Veterans Day DIME
Deadline N’borhood BINGO
Watch 7pm noon

SPECTRUM
DINNER 4:30
SPECTRUM
BUS DINNER BUS
10 A.M. 4:30 p.m. 10 A.M.

16 17 18 19 20 21 22
SPECTRUM
DINNER LUNCH
4:30 p.m. BUNCH

SPECTRUM
BUS DINNER BUS
10 A.M. 4:30 p.m. 10 A.M.

23 24 25 26 27 28 29
SPECTRUM Thanksgiving BINGO
DINNER Day 12-3
4:30 p.m.

BUS BUS
10 A.M. 10 A.M.

30 1 2 3 4 5 6
SPECTRUM Assn Meeting
DINNER 7:00 p.m. BINGO
4:30 p.m. 12-3
D E C E M B E R