2024-25 Board of Directors

Great Turn-out for the Annual Members’ Meeting! Thanks for attending!
After the election yesterday (6/9), here are your 2024-2025 Craneridge BOD members:

Shannon Wichlacz  (term ends 2025) 
President

Andrea Post (term ends 2026) 
Vice President

Angela Jackson (term ends 2026) 
Secretary

Sam Lewandowski (term ends 2027) 
Director

Austin Ridley (term ends 2026) 
Director

Gwen Alegre (term ends 2025) 
Director

Kathryn Orrange (term ends 2025) 
Director

Kathie Sharp (term ends 2027) 
Director

Sherri Weber (term ends 2027) 
Director

——————————–
Jeff Randall (ex-officio) 
Interim Treasurer

NOTICE: Installation of Cameras at the Pool and Playground Areas on June 11.

Dear Members,

After a year of discussions and serious deliberation, the Board of Directors (BOD) has decided to install security cameras in the common areas, specifically directed at the pool, pool shelter, playground, and basketball court. The cameras are scheduled to be installed on June 11th. This project aims to address ongoing vandalism and the destruction of our shared assets. Some concerning examples include:

  • Last spring, the boy’s bathroom door at the pool was forced open, resulting in a broken toilet and a hole kicked in the wall before the pool was officially opened.
  • Last year, after volunteers planted a new garden at the meadow, some youngsters took rocks out of the garden to make a fire pit in the grass, had a fire, and left garbage.
  • Last fall, someone let down the canvas sides at the pool shelter after they had been put up for the winter. They were not properly secured, and a windstorm damaged many of the canvas walls.
  • Last summer, a plastic table at the pool was mysteriously smashed.
  • A neighbor witnessed an adolescent hop over the locked pool fence and attempt to take one of the umbrellas.
  • A toy box donated by a volunteer for the playground area had its top smashed in.
  • Recently, someone removed cages from newly planted trees at the meadow, smashed the cages, and threw a tire into the water area.

After thorough research and deliberation, the Board of Directors (BOD) has chosen Powered Protection to install the WatchNET Surveillance Camera System on June 11th. The cameras will be strategically placed in plain sight on the pool building.

We want to assure you that this decision was made with the utmost care and consideration. The BOD has adopted a comprehensive policy vetted by our lawyer to ensure compliance with our bylaws and covenants. The policy has been confirmed as solid and appropriate.

Key points to note about the video system:

  • Purpose: The cameras are intended solely to deter inappropriate behavior and to help identify individuals in the event of asset damage or criminal activity. They are not for monitoring.
  • Privacy: In common areas, there is no expectation of privacy. The cameras will only record video,
    In compliance with legal requirements, no sound nor conversations will be recorded.
  • Footage Access: Footage will only be viewed if there is damage to common areas or criminal activity. It will not be monitored and will be retained for a minimum of seven days, or longer depending on storage capacity.
  • Data Security: Recorded footage will remain within the DVR system and will not be accessible via laptops or the internet.

We understand that some community members have concerns about privacy, particularly regarding children. We want to emphasize that the footage will only be accessed under specific circumstances and is not intended to invade anyone’s privacy. This measure is in place to protect our communal assets and ensure the longevity of improvements made by dedicated volunteers.

The installation of these cameras is a proactive step to enhance the security and care of our shared spaces. We believe this will help maintain and improve the quality of our community areas, ensuring they remain safe and enjoyable for everyone.

We encourage you to read the full policy for detailed information on the scope, access, and usage of the video camera system. This policy has been designed to balance the need for security with respect for individual rights. The policy has been read and approved by our lawyer. [READ Policy]

Thank you for your understanding and support in making our community a safer and more enjoyable place for all.

Reminder: Annual Members Meeting this Sunday June 9th at 2:00 pm

Craneridge Annual Members Meeting

Sunday, June 9, 2024   2:00 pm
@ Pool Shelter

AGENDA:

Introductions

Review & Approval of 2023 minutes

Officer Reports:
– President – Shannon Wichlacz 
– Vice President – Andrea Post
– Secretary – Angela Jackson
– Treasurer / Finance– Jeff Randall
– Executive Secretary – Erin Reese

Committee Reports:
– Architectural – Angela Jackson
– Maintenance – Adam Wichlacz
– Pool – Kathryn Orrange
– Woodlands & Habitat –Gwen Alegre
– Neighborhood Engagement – Butch Lesniak
– Communications – Shannon Wichlacz
– Lighting – Sam Lewandowski
– Welcoming Committee – Committee Rep
– Bylaws – (no activity this year)

Old Business:
– None

New Business:
– None

Election of Board Members (3 position open)
Candidates:
– Samuel Lewandowski 
– Kathryn “Kathie” Sharp
– Sherri Weber
– Dave Reese

If you cannot attend the meeting, please appoint a proxy to vote for you:
Proxy Form

Stay for the Pizza Social right after the meeting!!!

Note: The Pool will be CLOSED during the members meeting.

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Update

And…What to Look For in June!

HWA Treatment Update

  • In April and May, we treated over 100 Eastern Hemlock trees for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA).
  • A majority of these trees were treated proactively. Once established, HWA spreads very quickly. These invader bugs reproduce asexually, so it takes only one female to produce hundreds of evil HWA babies. Whether infested or not, treated trees are protected for 5-7 years!
  • A BIG THANK YOU to Craneridge neighbor Matt Gregory who volunteered two full days supporting forester and HWA expert, Joshua Konovitz.
  • Each tree’s diameter was measured, and a metal ID tag was attached. Imidacloprid, was applied to the bark at the base of the tree. Each tree is tracked in a master spreadsheet, so we know when and where treatment occurred.
  • Trees over 9 inches in diameter were prioritized for treatment. Dense Hemlock areas, especially along Tarn Trail, received attention. An area at the north end of Ridge, where some of Craneridge’s largest Hemlocks live, was also treated.
  • Known infested trees were also targeted. Based on what we continue to see, we are in the early days of HWA infestation. However, we did find additional infestations during treatment.

Future Treatment Goals

  • Our goal is to treat at least 150 Hemlocks in 2024.
  • Treatment will continue in the fall. Cooler seasons are ideal treatment times.
  • Additional Hemlocks will be treated over several years until a permanent bio-control (predator insects) is established in our area. And of course, we’ll continue to monitor.

What to Look For in June… and a Note of Caution

Now through June, healthy Hemlock branches have bright lime green, new growth tips. This time of year, the new growth is very visible!

HWA infested branches do not have this new growth. The image below is from the same Hemlock tree. The picture was taken from an infested tree along Tarn Trail.

What You Can Do!

  • Look for branches that have previous years’ needles but no new bright green tips.
  • If these branches also have white fuzzy balls (like mini Q-Tips), this is a sign of HWA.
  • Ignore dead branches with no needles. Dead branches have not been impacted by HWA and their demise was caused by other impacts.
  • If you have concerns about any Hemlock branches or trees, contact Gwen at gwenalegre@gmail.com or Sam at Slewandowski92@gmail.com. We’ll stop by to confirm HWA infestation and mark your tree for treatment for either this fall or next spring.

A Word of Caution!

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, which are very tiny and hard to see, are currently in their active “crawler” stage (they do not fly). If you suspect an HWA infestation, avoid touching the branches. And don’t go hugging other Hemlocks!

If you have any questions or need HWA identification help, please contact either Gwen or Sam at the emails listed above! 😊

Want to Learn More About HWA?
If you love Craneridge and our Hemlocks, you’ll want to spend some time exploring this page. https://craneridge.org/take-a-stand-against-hemlock-woolly-adelgid/

June Event Reminders!

Monday June 3rd — Get your Brush out to the Road by 6 am – More info here: https://craneridge.org/2024/05/10/craneridge-brush-pick-up-on-monday-june-3rd-2024/

Saturday June 8th — First Day Pool Opens: https://craneridge.org/2024/05/31/pool-opening-next-weekend-june-8th-9th/

Sunday June 9th – Attend the Annual Members Meeting at 2:00 pm. More info here: https://craneridge.org/2024/05/27/join-us-for-the-annual-members-meeting-on-june-9th-at-200-pm/

Read the 2024 Spring Newsletter: https://craneridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/craneridge-newsletter_may-2024_online-version-1.pdf

Volunteer! – New Tasks Uploaded! Check it out – https://craneridge.hostsites.me/

Learn about the Neighborhood Engagement Committee and how we need YOU to get it started: https://craneridge.org/2024/05/28/neighborhood-engagement-committee-members-needed/

Pool opening next weekend June 8th & 9th

Pool opening next weekend!

We plan to open:
Sat. June 8th, 11am – 9pm
Sun. June 9th 11 am- 9 pm (closed 2-3 pm for the Members meeting)

Sat. June 15th, 11am – 9pm
Sun. June 16th 11 am- 9 pm

Sat. June 22nd, 11am – 9pm
Sun. June 23rd 11 am- 9 pm

Then everyday starting around June 26th (when school’s out) 11am – 9pm

Any changes to pool hours will be posted here on the Craneridge Website under NEWS.

CRANERIDGE POOL RULES

Craneridge provides American Red Cross trained Lifeguards with CPR training as a level 2 pool during business hours. We will close for inclement weather, staffing issues or cleaning issues.

Everyone must sign in! When signing in you are attesting to your knowledge of the pool rules and the intent to comply. Signing in includes names of all family members, lot number, phone number, time entering and leaving the pool. This provides important information that allows us to track usage, schedule staff, and track in the event of a health issue.

OBEY THE LIFEGUARD! Lifeguards are on duty to ensure a safe environment. Any issues with pool personnel should be directed to Kathryn Orrange, Pool Chairman, Martha Kemsley, or any Board of Directors member.

NO LOITERING around the lifeguard chair at any time.

Children of ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the pool area at all times. Children ages 10 and older may attend the pool alone and swim in the deep end with lifeguard discretion after passing a “deep end” test!

Guests may be allowed but must be accompanied by a resident family member at all times.

NO GLASS CONTAINERS! Food is restricted to tables only. Please take your garbage and empty containers home with you!

Please report any unsafe conditions or concerns about the pool here: https://craneridge.org/craneridge-connect/.

ENJOY!!

Next BOD Meeting – Monday June 3rd @ 6:45 pm at Pool Shelter

Monday, June 3, 2024  @ 6:45 pm – at Pool Shelter

Craneridge Association BOD Meeting Agenda:

Mission Statement: Enhance our living environment through woodlands stewardship, shared property maintenance, and community building.

Outcomes [or Intended Results] for this meeting: 

By the end of this meeting we will accomplish the following: 

  • Understand the latest developments occurring within our committees;
  • Update BOD on the progress made on “Actions we agreed to complete” that are outside of the committees;
  • Review Craneridge Homeowners Association HOA Surveillance Camera Security Policy
  • Discuss the “CAI WNY Ask the Legal Experts” panel 
  • Finalize plans for the Annual Members Meeting on Sunday, June 9th at 2:00 pm
Sections and TopicsLeaderTime (minutes) 
CONNECT – Check-in Shannon W. 5
COMMENTS – Member’s Public Comments WelcomeN/AN/A
Meeting Minutes Meeting Approval for May 2024Shannon W. 5  
CONVENE – Quick review of Outcomes, Agenda, and rolesShannon W. 5
CONSENT AGENDA – Officer & Committee ReportsPresident, Vice President, Secretary, & Treasurer/Finance ReportCommittees Executive Secretary Officers, Committee Chairs & Executive Secretary 1 minute each

(~10) 
CONTEXT – Review Follow-up Action Plan Template ItemsShannon W. 5
CONTENT – with “open,” “narrow,” or ”close”
Camera Security Policy – Read, review, and approve the policy. (C)Shannon 15
Review & Discuss “CAI WNY Ask the Legal Experts” panel from 5/15/2024 (O)Shannon 30
Discuss Annual Meeting Plans for June 9th (N,C)Shannon 15
Any other Topics that need to be Discussed N/AN/A
CONTINUE & CONCLUDE  – Summarize, Action Plans, Next MeetingShannon5

NOTES: ONC label meanings
O = Open (Talking about it for the first time & opening the discussion)
N = Narrow (Focusing on Options & narrowing down the discussion)
C = Close (Making a decision and closing the discussion) 

Neighborhood Engagement Committee Members Needed!

Last Fall, members Tara Beaudoin and Peggy Stearns proposed a revamp of our Social Committee. Recognizing the burnout faced by past volunteers, who were responsible for planning, implementing, and cleaning up all events, they suggested a more sustainable approach. That’s why we are excited to introduce the re-imagined Craneridge Social Committee, henceforth known as the Neighborhood Engagement Committee!

You know those awesome social events you’ve been missing? Well, they’re not going to happen unless we roll up our sleeves and make them happen ourselves. Yep, you heard it right. It’s not the job of the BOD to plan our fun—it’s up to YOU – Craneridge members!

That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce the Neighborhood Engagement Committee (NEC), formerly known as the Social Committee. Our goal? To bring our community together with awesome events that YOU want to see.

But here’s the thing: we can’t do it alone. We need volunteers—like YOU—to step up and make it a reality.

Are you organized and tech-savvy? We’re looking for an NEC Liaison to help keep things running smoothly. You won’t have to plan events, just help organize and track. Peggy Stearns and Butch Lesniak have laid out the groundwork—we just need YOU to bring it to life!

Summer’s around the corner, and we’re itching to fill our calendar with fun. But we can’t do it without YOU.

Want to help get the ball running? Reach out to Shannon at 716-432-4778 or email scmenter@yahoo.com. Let’s get the social events back on track! 🎉

Join us for the Annual Members’ Meeting on June 9th at 2:00 pm

The association’s Annual Meeting is the best opportunity for you to learn about this year’s events and get caught up on everything happening in our community and vote for new Board Members. There will be three (3) Board positions open.

The meeting will last approximately an hour and directly after, we will have Pizza
Social!

Sunday, June 9th at 2:00 pm – Pool Shelter

Meet your Board Member Nominees:

Samuel Lewandowski – Sam has been a member of Craneridge since 2020. He is a current BOD Incumbent and active volunteer member of the Woodlands & Habitat Committee and the Lighting Committee.

Kathryn “Kathie” Sharp “I have been a resident of the Craneridge Community since 2009 and has served the community as the Executive Secretary for the last 3 years.  My fulltime job is as a Business Development Manager and Technical Manager for a global quality services company. My many years in business and management help me guide decision-makers towards mutually beneficial solutions, and I believe this will translate well to the Craneridge Board of Directors.”

Sherri Weber “My husband Glenn and I moved to Craneridge in the winter of 2021. We were immediately welcomed into the neighborhood and fell in love with the people and the scenery. Running for a board member position in a homeowners association (HOA) is an opportunity to contribute positively to the community and make a difference in the neighborhood. As a candidate, I believe in fostering open communication, transparency, and collaboration within the HOA. I have been an educator for the past 30 years and have served on numerous committees and boards. It would be a privilege to give back to the community which we love and to preserve what others have worked so hard to maintain.”

The Craneridge May 2024 Spring Edition Newsletter is out now!

Please remember to attend the community Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 9th @ 2:00 pm. We need your involvement in the election of 3 new officers to the Board. We want to share what is happening in the “business” of Craneridge as well as sharing our vision for the future. If you are not able to attend the annual meeting of the community, please fill out a proxy for your vote and network with the Board and other members. Check out page 11 of the Newsletter for the list of Board Nominees.

The Newsletter will be printed and mailed out to residents residents who requested paper copies next week, but in the meantime, please check-out the PDF version on-line now!

Craneridge Spring Newsletter 2024