June 2011

Is it a Manufactured Home or a “Trailer”?
We often hear manufactured homes referred to as “trailers”. That is an historically correct term, for the early dwellings that were designed to be pulled behind a car or truck.  However, it does not accurately describe the product of today.  When we hear our residents use the term “trailer” we tend to discourage it because it can also reflect a mindset that somehow their housing is inferior.  So what makes a manufactured home a trailer?  Is it the age of a manufactured home that makes it a trailer?  How about the size?  Nope.  The difference between a “trailer” and a manufactured home, can be the maintenance and upkeep it receives—or does not receive.  We have some very nice older homes in Johanna Woods that have been maintained very well over the years and are an asset to our community.  While it is absolutely true that manufactured homes are less expensive to live in than site-built homes, we think that’s an advantage, not a drawback!  Many Johanna Woods residents could live in more expensive homes if they wanted to.  Instead, most have decided to own a nice home, in a nice community and enjoy their life without spending $1,000.00 or more every month on a house payment!  Most of the homes in Johanna Woods are well maintained by their owners—and it shows!  Is it your home or a “trailer” to you?  Each of us must decide, but the answer will be obvious to everyone that drives by!

The Dollar Stretcher
With the price of gas continuing to increase, it seems like a good time to review some ways to increase fuel efficiency—and save some gas money!  Here are some proven tips:  1) Check Tire Pressure—When tires are not inflated properly, it’s like driving with the parking brake on.  This can waste a mile or two per gallon and that adds up in a hurry!  2) Don’t Purchase High Octane Fuel Needlessly!  Research shows that 20% of drivers purchase premium fuel, but only 5% of cars have engines that require it.  Check your Owner’s Manual for the octane level your vehicle needs!

NEW NEIGHBOR NEWS
Johanna Woods welcomes Logan Douglas Spicer!  He arrived early in the morning on May 10th, weighing in at 6 lbs., 3 oz.  Congratulations to parents Kevin and Tiffany Spicer, and to Logan’s Meme –me!

NEIGHBOR NEWS
We have some new folks in Johanna Woods, have you met the ones who live near you?

Our American Heritage
“As nations cannot be rewarded or punished in the next world, they must be in this.  By an inevitable chain of causes and effects, Providence punishes national sins, by national calamities.”  George Mason, in 1787 on the subject of National Accountability during the debates of the Constitutional Convention.  He is called the “Father of the Bill of Rights,” because he insisted that the first ten amendments be added to the Constitution.  Virtually all succeeding constitutions have followed the pattern he established.  From America’s God and Country, by William J. Federer

Taking Shelter From The Storms
Our storm shelters have had a workout so far this year and we are thankful to be able to provide this important safety feature to our residents.  In the event that we may need to “run for cover” again soon, it seems like a good time to mention a couple of things.  First of all:  we cannot allow pets in the storm shelters.  This is not because we do not like pets.  It is simply because we want all of the available space in the shelters for our human residents.  Secondly:  Please watch the weather during stormy events and don’t wait until the last moment to take shelter.  If we ever have to lock the doors in the midst of a storm, in order to protect those inside, we don’t want anyone to be locked out!

Cook’s Corner
Grilled Rib Eye Steaks
Ingredients:
1/2 cup soy sauce                                       
1/2 cup sliced green onions                     
1/4 cup packed brown sugar                    
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger                     
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 1/2 pounds beef rib eye steaks 
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions:
In a large re-sealable, plastic bag, combine the soy sauce, onions, brown sugar, garlic, ginger and pepper.  Mix together and then place the steaks in the bag.  Seal the bag, then turn the bag over to coat the steaks.  Refrigerate the steaks for 8 hours or overnight.  When ready to cook, drain the steaks and discard the marinade.  Grill the steaks, uncovered, over medium-hot heat for 8-10 minutes or until the meat reaches the desired doneness (for medium-rare, a meat thermometer should read 145 degrees F°; medium, 160 degrees F°, well-done, 170 degrees F°)  We hope you enjoy these!

Watch Your Speed…We Are!
As summer begins and kids are out of school, we MUST pay close attention to speed limits in the community.  Our streets are posted at 25 mph and that must be maintained throughout Johanna Woods, as well as stopping at stop signs.  Parents, if you have a new driver, please be diligent in monitoring their driving.  If you have young children, be sure they realize that the street is not the place to play and teach them to cross carefully and watchfully.  Let’s avoid any traffic mishaps this summer.

Community Calendar
June 1st…Rent is Due.
June 6th…Rent is late and subject to a $25.00 late fee.
June 14th…Flag Day!
June 19th…Father’s Day.