Meridian Place

2012-01-24T10:41:00.001-08:00

The next Meridian Place Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday January 26th at 6:30pm

Please Recycle

2012-01-17T06:12:00.000-08:00

You can recycle solid styrofoam packing, as well as the 'worms' at the
Pack & Mail store behind Walgreens on the corner of Folly Rd. and Camp Rd. They have a grinder that will make small pieces of solid blocks of
styrofoam.
9-6pm M-F and 9-3pm Sat.

Keep it out of the landfill!

2012-01-17T06:08:00.000-08:00

Good day all. This is the Charleston Police Department’s Citizens Advisory

Group (CAG) meeting schedule for 2012. The purpose of these meetings is

for Charleston Chief of Police Greg Mullen and his senior staff to meet with

residents in an open forum to get feedback on issues or concerns, community issues in general, and to keep a dialogue open with the community to form stronger partnerships. All citizens of the city of Charleston are welcome to attend these meetings.

The meetings will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. during the following

months, dates and locations:

• Team 1 area (Upper peninsula, north of Calhoun St.) meetings will be held at the John L. Dart Library at 1067 King Street and the Arthur W. Christopher Community Center at 265 Fishburne Street.

• Team 2 area (Lower Peninsula, below Calhoun St.) meetings will be held at the Charleston County Main Library at 68 Calhoun Street.

• Team 3 area (James and Johns Islands) meetings will be held at the James Island Library Branch at 1248 Camp Road.

• Team 4 area (West Ashley) meetings will be held at Ashley River Creative Arts School at 1871 Wallace School Road, and Bees Ferry Community Center at 1580 Ashley Gardens Blvd.

_____________

February

Team 1 – John L. Dart Library – February 2nd

Team 3 – James Island Library Branch – February 9th

March

Team 2 – Charleston County Main Library – March 1st

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – March 8th

April

Team 1 – Arthur Christopher Community Center – April 5th

Team 3 – James Island Library Branch – April 12th

May

Team 2 – Charleston County Main Library – May 3rd

Team 4 – Bees Ferry Community Center – May 10th

June

Team 1 – John L. Dart Library – June 7th

Team 3 – James Island Library Branch – June 14th

July

Team 2 – Charleston County Main Library – July 5th

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – July 12th

August

Team 1 – Arthur Christopher Community Center – August 2nd

Team 3 – James Island Library Branch – August 9th

September

Team 2 - Charleston County Main Library – September 6th

Team 4 – Bees Ferry Community Center – September 13th

October

Team 1 – John L. Dart Library – October 4th

Team 3 – James Island Library Branch – October 11th

November

Team 2 - Charleston County Main Library – November 1st

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – November 8th

For questions contact Charles Francis at 720-2497.

2012-01-13T13:58:00.000-08:00

The next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday January 26th at 6:30pm

2012-01-03T08:53:00.003-08:00

The Charleston Police Department invites residents and merchants to complete an online Citizen Satisfaction Survey. We look at this survey periodically to evaluate citizen interaction with officers, dispatchers, records staff, and other members of the department. Please go to http://www.charleston-pd.org/ , click on the Citizen Satisfaction Survey on the home-page and follow the link. It only takes a few minutes.

Please forward to any neighborhood e-mail lists, church or business e-mail lists or other social media you may have access to with persons who might have had interaction with the Police Department over the last year.

Thank you,

Sgt. Shelor

Charleston Police Crime Prevention / Community Relations

2011-12-28T07:24:00.003-08:00

Festival of Lights named among 100 best

Staff report
Published Dec. 27, 2011
The American Bus Association recently announced that the James Island County Park Holiday Festival of Lights has been named one of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2012 by a tourism industry selection committee.
The list, which was published as a supplement to the September/October issue of Destinations magazine, said that the Holiday Festival of Lights offered excellent entertainment value to tour groups and individual travelers from around the world, according to the American Bus Association.
The Top 100 Events selection committee chose the Holiday Festival of Lights based on the event’s broad appeal, its accessibility to motor coaches and skill at handling large groups and a variety of other relevant criteria
With more than 2 million lights, the three-mile driving tour delivers more light displays each year, with more than 700 displays produced this season. In addition to the driving tour, guests can park the car and experience attractions, including Santa’s Village, a 50-ton sand sculpture, annual gingerbread house competition, marshmallow roasting pit and a festival gift shop.

2011-11-30T10:10:00.001-08:00

2011-11-30T10:06:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder the Annual Meeting is scheduled for Thursday December 8th at 6:30 located at the James Island High School.

2011-11-10T08:02:00.001-08:00

Click Here for Second Sunday info and parking pass

2nd Sunday on King Street is November 13th

2011-10-31T12:50:00.001-07:00

HALLOWEEN SAFETY

TIPS FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS

§ Carry a flashlight with you for visibility.

§ Always stay in a group with an adult!

§ Never enter a stranger’s house or car for a treat!

§ Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the grass away from the street.

§ Look both ways before crossing the street and if you are wearing a mask take it off.

§ Wait until an adult can check your candy before you eat any of it.

§ Only accept treats from neighbors or friends you know!

TIPS FOR PARENTS

§ Plan costumes that are bright and reflective! Consider adding more reflective tape to

§ costumes + trick or treat bags. Always carry flashlights.

§ Masks can limit or block eyesight, consider makeup or cut the mask eyeholes bigger

so they can see. Remind children to remove their masks to cross the street!

§ We recommend that children do not use props like guns, knives, or swords.

§ However, if they are used, make sure they don’t look real!

§ Clear hazards from your property. Remove obstacles such as flower pots and garden

hoses, so children won’t trip on them rushing from house to house.

§ Remind your children not to eat the candy until an adult has checked their treats!

§ Your child’s school may be having a Halloween party. Call the School and ask.

§ Please explain to children the difference between tricks and vandalism.

TIPS FOR BUSINESSES/MOTORISTS

§ Heighten your awareness and be cautious of purchases that may have the potential

to cause personal injury or property damage – such as paint ball guns or large quantities of eggs.

§ Drive slowly and cautiously through your neighborhoods. Remember children may not look before crossing the street.

Please report any suspicious activity immediately to the local law enforcement agency. As always in an emergency call 911. Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!

From our friends at the United States Attorney’s Office

District of South Carolina

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sc

New ordinance allows neighbors to report barking dogs, messy yards

2011-10-27T06:39:00.001-07:00

http://www.live5news.com/story/15878383/be-nice-to-your-neighbors-new-county-ordinance

2011-10-17T10:18:00.001-07:00

Upper King Design District Fall Walk

Upper King Design District Fall Design Walk October 20 5:00 PM

Join the Upper King Design District as they celebrate another Fall Design Walk October 20 at 5:00 PM. Here are just a few of the events you can enjoy...
- Modern Trousseau will host a reception featuring Callie Tein Designs, Roberto Coin Jewelry and Bob Ellis Shoes.
- Seeking Indigo will celebrate their 2nd birthday with a party similar to their grand opening, which drew 1200 people.
- SieMatic's Charleson Grand Opening at Design Walk was the best attended in the company's history, worldwide.
- Michael Mitchell Gallery will host a reception featuring abstract-impressionist artist Susan Colwell.
- Osteria la Bottiglia will feature handbag and home designs by Bottega Brandina Designer Marco Morosini at a Happy Hour reception.
- La Fourchette will host a Happy Hour Reception featuring artist Sybil Fix, founder and creator of The Terra Project. The Terra Project creates educational programs for children that use food to teach academic disciplines and explore social justice and environmental issues.
- Evan Powell, Mixologist at Fish, will serve Designer Negroni Cocktails
- Receptions will also be held at Circa Lighting, Haute Design, Butterfly, Aqua Day Spa, Canvas and Morris Sokol Furniture.

$2 parking for the evening is available at the Visitors Center Garage on Ann Street between King and Meeting.

2011-10-05T11:10:00.001-07:00

2nd Sunday on King Street is October 9th.

2011-09-30T06:10:00.001-07:00

This week there have been some motorcycle thefts. No specific known connection, but there is also a Fall Bike Week occurring in the Myrtle beach area. Occasionally we suffer thefts of motorcycles coincidentally timed with these events. Please advise your residents or neighbors to take a few extra steps to protect their motorcycles (enclosed storage, heavier chains, blocking in with other vehicles, alarms or “kill-switches” etc.). As always, call 911 if you see suspicious activity, particularly in this case, unfamiliar people, trucks or vans near where motorcycles park.

Thank you.

Sgt. Shelor

Charleston Police Crime Prevention Unit

2011-09-30T06:08:00.001-07:00

Over the last week, particularly the last two days, all across the suburban areas from Johns Island, James Island, West Ashley, and Daniel Island, we have been receiving calls about door-to-door solicitors selling magazines. The solicitors are giving various stories, but several claim (FRAUDULENTLY) to be members of a local school sports team – One saying West Ashley High, the next saying James Isl Christian, or some other school (don’t bother trying to check them out with the schools, it is all false).

It is unclear whether you would ever actually receive your magazines, but at least in these cases the people are outright lying to make a sale. At least two are girls. They try to be convincing. Don’t be conned.

IF YOU ENCOUNTER THESE PEOPLE, TELL THEM YOU ARE NOT INTERRESTED. MAKE NOTE OF THEIR DESCRIPTION AND DIRECTION OF TRAVEL AND CALL POLICE IMMEDIATELY (577-7434) SO OFFICERS CAN RESPOND AND INTERVIEW THEM.

They will be checked for ID and warrants, at least warned and dispersed, and might even be cited or arrested. (one was arrested on Daniel Island today for drug possession). Also be advised that often other crimes follow these individuals, including neighborhood car-break-ins and fraud involving the checks citizens write to them.

See the page in the attached booklet regarding City of Charleston PEDDLER’S PERMIT which is required but none of these people have.

POST a “NO SOLICITORS” sign on your door.

2011-09-21T05:35:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder the next Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday October 11th at 6:30pm.

Please let me kow if you have any questions.

Thanks
Hollianne Stackpoole hstackpoole@cmgcharleston.com

2011-09-07T07:32:00.000-07:00

2nd Sunday on King Street is September 11,

Followed by a Special 9/11 Tribute at Marion Square

2nd Sunday on King Street, Charleston's most popular shopping, dining and cultural event, continues September 11, 2011 from 1:00-5:00 PM. More information about 2nd Sunday food, musicians, events and activities can be found at www.2ndsundayonkingstreet.com.

This month, 2nd Sunday will be followed by a special City of Charleston 10-year anniversary commemoration concert in remembrance of September 11, 2001.

The free concert takes place at Marion Square from 5:00 - 6:30 PM. It will be in partnership with Operation R&R, a non-profit organization designed to provide service men and women an opportunity to reconnect with their spouses and children on a vacation when they return from deployments Iraq and Afghanistan.

Reflective and patriotic music will be performed by the Charleston Community Band, Charleston Men's Chorus, Charleston Symphony Orchestra Chorus, College of Charleston, the Citadel and others. The event will honor and remember our first responders, military service men and women and those who perished in all of the events on September 11, 2001. Attendees should bring blankets or folding chairs for seating on the lawn at Marion Square. Free parking is available at the Gaillard Parking Garage on Calhoun Street.

For more information about 2nd Sunday, visit www.2ndsundayonkingstreet.com.

For more information about the Commemoration Concert, Download the Press Release.

Don't forget you can stay downtown after the concert for Charleston Restaurant Week.

See you at 2nd Sunday!

Board Meeting

2011-08-31T08:49:00.001-07:00

The next Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday October 11th at 6:30pm.

Please contact Hollianne Stackpoole for location.
843-795-8484 x316

Thank You

2011-08-16T11:18:00.001-07:00

2011-08-16T11:03:00.003-07:00

Recently there has been a rat problem through some areas in

Meridian Place

. The following are tips DHEC asked to share with

Meridian Place

owners

as helpful preventative solutions for everyone to use.

Pull pine straw away from the house.
Don't feed dogs or cats outside.
NO bird feeders.
Barbeques need to be degreased and left open in sunshine (rats hate light).
Put trash in can not outside of can.

Rats look for water sources such as the saucers around the plants, bird baths, dripping faucets etc.

Hollianne StackpooleCertified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) Accredited Association Management Company (AAMC)Community Manager

2011-08-03T08:28:00.001-07:00

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

Board Meeting

2011-07-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

The next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday August 18th at 6:30pm

If you would like to attend please contact Hollianne Stackpoole at hstackpoole@cmgcharleston.com

Thanks

2011-07-12T12:03:00.001-07:00

2011-07-12T11:56:00.001-07:00

Homes for Sale/ Vacant Homes/ Code Enforcement Issues

To: Neighborhood Presidents, Crime Watch coordinators, HOA Management

From: CPD Crime Prevention Unit

Re: Please take notice of unusual activities in “Homes for sale” and vacant homes

The Police Department would like for you to pay extra attention to vacant homes for sale, as well as those that are lived-in. Vacant ones particularly have the potential to harbor criminal behavior close to your home. These homes can be used by juveniles or homeless persons to “hang out” and/or do drugs, have sexual relations, or damage the actual home. Other criminals actually steal the copper from the home or its a/c units, or appliances.

The City of Charleston Police Department would like for you to keep an eye on these properties and to not hesitate in calling Police if there appears to be someone there and it looks suspicious. We would rather you err on the side of caution.

ALSO IF YOU FEEL THESE HOMES ARE IN VIOLATION OF CITY LIVABILITY/NUISANCE ORDINANCES, REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE WITH THE ADDRESS AND ANY PERTINENT FACTS OR PHOTOS. WE WILL WORK TO GET CODE ENFORCEMENT INVOLVED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

What is “Suspicious Activity”

Activity which is obviously criminal :

Violence, Weapons, Stealing, Vandalism, Graffiti, Screams, Gun Shots.

Also activity which MIGHT be a crime happening or about to happen

– Prowlers walking around the homes

– Juveniles (single or group) during school hours, immediately after, or late at night

– People looking into vehicles

– Vehicles driving without headlights at night

– Riding a bicycle aimlessly and looking at all the homes

– Vehicle parked at a vacant residence

What to do if you own a vacant property?

Consider ways to make it look occupied - Keep blinds closed, use lights on timers, keep lawn mowed, ask a neighbor to watch the house and call Police if necessary. Have a neighbor park an extra vehicle in the driveway.

Please don’t hesitate to at the following numbers:

Charleston Police 577-7434, CrimeStoppers 554-1111 or 911.

Charleston Police Department –Crime Prevention Unit
180 Lockwood Blvd., Charleston, SC 29403 /843-769-7407

2011-06-28T12:13:00.001-07:00

Board Meeting

2011-06-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

The next scheduled Board meeting is Tuesday July 18th at 6:30pm. Please contact Hollianne Stackpoole for details. 843-795-8484 x316

2011-06-15T06:40:00.001-07:00

Board Meeting

2011-06-15T06:37:00.001-07:00

The next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday June 20th at 6:30pm

If you would like to attend please call Hollianne Stackpoole for details at 843-795-8484 x316

Collection Statistics

2011-05-31T08:25:00.001-07:00

One of the most unpleasant aspects of management of a Homeowners Association is collection of Assessments. Your budget requires full funding in order to meet the expenses of the Association, which include insurance, grounds and building maintenance, utilities, taxes, reserves etc. The only significant source of funds is member Assessments. If payment is not made, collections progresses in accordance with the Association’s Governing Documents through a series of letters and fees, Recording of a formal Lien with the County, progress through County court to secure a personal judgment for the balance owing, possible seizure and sale of property through the County Sheriff…

Should these considerable efforts not succeed, the Association may only be left with costly legal action toward foreclosure of the home.

While these steps may sound drastic and unpleasant, and they are, collection of 100% of Assessments is necessary to balance the budget. There are no “bailouts” and the Association has limited options. Failure to collect the amounts necessary to balance the budget require one of these options: Special Assessments to the well-paying owners to cover those who don’t pay, further cutting of services or insurance (higher risk to owners), borrowing from necessary reserves (delays the inevitable) or increasing Assessments to everyone… None of these are good options, particularly since the budget is already very VERY lean…

Just like every household is doing its share of belt-tightening, every Homeowners Association in this economy is facing this challenge. Your Board and management are working diligently to keep YOUR fees low and we are focused on fairness. It is fair that everyone pay their share so that you don’t have to make up for those who choose not to pay. Nationally, the average delinquency is over 13% but due to focused efforts, your Association is in far better shape. This figure is improving as we progress. Here are the current collections statistics:

___ Homes greater than 3 months behind in Assessments

___ Homes with liens recorded with the County

___ Homeowners in the County Court Judgment process (some served by Sheriff, some by Private Process)

___ Homeowners with the Association’s attorney

2011-05-12T05:46:00.000-07:00

The next Board meeting for Meridian Place is scheduled for Thursday May 19th at 6:30pm

2011-05-02T13:20:00.001-07:00

Dear

Meridian Place

Residents:

We have received a report that one of the residents in the community has had her car broken into last night. Please remember to keep an eye out for suspicious activity.

Call either 911 (in-progress crime, prowler in a back yard) or 577-7434 for Charleston Police dispatch line. The same dispatchers answer both lines, right here at CPD. Cell phones may get County dispatchers, the effect is the same. (If you live in Sheriff's jurisdiction call 911, or 202-1700 for the administrative line)
Suspicious Activity to Call About:

1. Someone loitering or wandering aimlessly, on foot or a bicycle

2. Anyone staring at a home or looking into a parked car

3. Anyone ringing or knocking at your door with unreasonable or odd explanation

4. Someone running from a car, home, or business

5. Sound of breaking glass or breaking wood

6. Persons walking around the neighborhood with items which may have been stolen

7. Strange vehicles passing through or parked with occupants

2011-04-18T06:19:00.001-07:00

Neighborhood Residents,

This week is Spring Break for Public Schools. Many residents will be gone on vacation. If you are leaving town (or even just going to the beach for the day), please heed the following tips. If you are staying home, keep an extra eye out for your neighbors and the neighborhood as a whole. Call Charleston police about any suspicious people or vehicles you see: 577-7434 or 911.

VACATION SECURITY CHECKLIST
Thieves look for “TARGETS of OPPORTUNITY”. There are many things
you can do to avoid becoming a victim when you are going to be away.
Mainly, try to give the illusion you are home.

Have Deadbolt Locks installed on all exterior doors (Single-cylinder on solid doors / walls, Double-cylinder when near a window). USE THEM
Keep an inventory list and photos of all serial numbered items, engrave them with your Drivers License Number, to help get them back.
Double-check ALL windows and doors (basements, bathrooms, kitchens)
Leave a car in the driveway
Use timers for Exterior AND Interior lights, TVs, stereos, etc.
Tell a trusted neighbor about plans, leave emergency contacts and a key. Ask them to check the house and call Police if they see people around.
BUT Limit how many people you tell of your plans. Word may spread.
Cancel newspapers, have mail held, or at least ask the neighbor to bring them in for you. If leaving for a week, have them put the trash can out. It is an obvious marker that you are gone.
Upon returning, walk around the house once to look for any signs of a break-in. You don’t want to walk into a crime-in-progress. If you see something open or broken, go next door and CALL POLICE.

IF You plan to pack your vehicle the night before you leave, also plan to park it in the garage. Packed vehicles left outside overnight invite theft. If that happens, you will be missing property, and will also not get to leave on time.

Sgt. Shelor
Charleston Police

2011-04-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

An Alarming Message
:
Please check your smoke
detectors. One of our
homeowners had a
smoky kitchen fire and
the smoke detectors did not go off.
Please don’t take the detectors for
granted. Contact the Charleston Fire Department
at 843.720.1981 for your
smoke alarm questions and a free fire
safety survey.

2011-03-24T11:55:00.001-07:00

Spring has sprung and if the pollen and gnats have allowed you to leave your home, you probably had a heavy sigh as you faced your spring yard work. We're having another promotion. Leave a good word on our Community Management Group Facebook page about what you love about spring in your community (and maybe your manager) and be entered to win one of SEVERAL Home Improvement Store spring gift cards!

2011-03-16T09:27:00.001-07:00

Board meeting

2011-03-16T08:56:00.001-07:00

The next Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday March 31st at 6:30 pm

Target Termite Inspections

2011-03-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

Termite Inspection: Your
Best Protection
Don’t let termites make
your house dinner. Each
homeowner must call Target
Termite to get your
home inspected annually.
This service is included in
your monthly fees. This is
very, very important.
Call your neighbors connected
by a common wall
and have all units in the
building inspected at one
time.
Call Target today 843.
762.0575

2011-02-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

It’s that time again –
spring cleaning time!
We are asking each
of you to help improve the value of your
home by continuing to make it look brand
new. A few special points of interest:
Faded shutters: Nothing makes a house
look more tired. Let’s freshen up! Please
paint faded shutters the same color as
the original. Please contact Hollianne Stackpoole at 843.795.8484 x316 for the original colors or email at hstackpoole@cmgcharleston.com

2011-01-31T11:49:00.001-08:00

Charleston Chief of Police Greg Mullen and his senior staff meet with residents in an open forum to get feedback on issues or concerns, community issues in general and to keep a dialogue open with the community to form stronger partnerships. All neighborhood residents, merchants, and citizens are invited to attend.

The meetings will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. during the following months, dates and locations:

· Team 1 (Upper Peninsula Above Calhoun St.)meetings will alternate monthly between Mitchell Elementary School at 2 Perry Street and the John L. Dart Library at 1067 King Street.

· Team 2 (Lower Peninsula Below Calhoun St.) meetings will be held at the Charleston County Main Library at 68 Calhoun Street.

· Team 3 (James and Johns Island) meetings will be held at Harbor View Elementary School at 1576 Harbor View Road.

· Team 4 (West Ashley) meetings will be held at Ashley River Creative Arts School at 1871 Wallace School Road.

February

Team 1 – Mitchell Elementary School – February 3^rd

Team 3 – Harbor View Elementary School – February 10^th

March

Team 2 – Charleston County Main Library – March 3^rd

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – March 17^th

April

Team 1 – John L. Dart Library – April 7^th

Team 3 – Harbor View Elementary School – April 28^th

May

Team 2 – Charleston County Main Library – May 5^th

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – May 19^th

June

Team 1 – Mitchell Elementary School – June 2^nd

Team 3 – Harbor View Elementary School – June 9^th

July

Team 2 – Charleston County Main Library – July 7^th

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – July 21^st

August

Team 1 – John L. Dart Library – August 4^th

Team 3 – Harbor View Elementary School – August 11^th

September

Team 2 - Charleston County Main Library – September 1^st

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – September 15^th

October

Team 1 – Mitchell Elementary School – October 6^th

Team 3 – Harbor View Elementary School – October 13^th

November

Team 2 - Charleston County Main Library – November 3^rd

Team 4 – Ashley River Creative Arts School – November 17^th

2011-01-19T05:18:00.001-08:00

2011-01-19T05:08:00.001-08:00

2011-01-06T10:45:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! It is time to pay your 2011 Assessment. Please see below various ways in which you can pay your assessment:

1) Detach the appropriate sheet from your statement and mail your payments to the bank’s lockbox at Post Office

Box 912, Columbia, SC 29202

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

3) Download the form from our website and set-up ACH for automatic draft of your assessment for 2011. Please remember that if you have your payments set up on ACH through Community Management Group, you need to be aware that any outstanding balance may be debited from your account.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns at 843-795-8484 ext. 316. You can also reach Suzanne Carriere, at ext. 314.

2010-12-07T07:38:00.001-08:00

CHRISTMAS and HOLIDAY SAFETY

Christmas and the holidays are an exciting and busy time but with all the joys of the holiday season come potential safety hazards that can cause injury or even death. Help prevent injuries at Christmas and during the holidays by following these tips:

Christmas tree safety begins with the selection and purchase of a fresh tree. When buying a live pre-cut tree, make sure the tree is still alive and healthy. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from the branches, and when bent between your fingers, needles do not break. Pull on the needles. The trunk should be sticky and the limbs should be very flexible. Lift the tree and bounce the cut end on the ground, if a bunch of needles come tumbling off, it isn’t a safe tree to take home.
When you get the tree home, cut off the bottom two inches of trunk to expose the fresh wood. This will create a fresh, raw cut for the tree to soak in water, allow for better water absorption and helps keep your tree from becoming a fire hazard.
Keep your tree well hydrated. Keep the water in the stand well above the fresh-cut bottom of the trunk.
Christmas trees dry out with heat, so place your tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces or heater vents.
When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant”.
Unplug the lights and decorations when you are not home.
Check each set of tree lights for frayed wires, broken bulbs and loose connections.
Never run electrical cords under the carpets or rugs, over nails or in traffic areas.
Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use. To hold lights in place, string them through hooks or insulated staples, not nails or tacks. Never pull or tug lights to remove them. Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks.
In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid the child swallowing or inhaling small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a young child to eat them.
Remember that mistletoe, holly berries and Christmas cactus are poisonous if swallowed.
Use care with “fire salts”, which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten.
Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

2010-11-22T07:56:00.000-08:00

Going on vacation and need someone to watch your animals?

Working a weird shift and need someone to let your dog out?
Charleston Dog Walker is here to help!

Please follow this link: http://www.charlestondogwalker.com/

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Are Your Heat Sources Ready for Winter?

2010-11-10T04:29:00.000-08:00

Heating is one of the leading causes of home fires in the United States. Over 25 percent of these fires started due to improperly maintained heating equipment.

Tell residents that following a few simple safety tips can make all the difference:

Have chimneys professionally inspected and cleaned each year;

Ensure wood stoves are properly installed;

Make sure space heaters are kept at least three feet away from flammables and have an emergency tip-over, shut-off control;

Use a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting drapes, furniture, and carpets; and

Never use a range or oven to heat your home.

For more tips and fire safety information to distribute to your community, go to: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/heating/hotspot.shtm

Halloween Safety

2010-10-26T12:34:00.001-07:00

HALLOWEEN SAFETY

TIPS FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS

§ Carry a flashlight with you for visibility.

§ Always stay in a group with an adult!

§ Never enter a stranger’s house or car for a treat!

§ Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the grass away from the street.

§ Look both ways before crossing the street and if you are wearing a mask take it off.

§ Wait until an adult can check your candy before you eat any of it.

§ Only accept treats from neighbors or friends you know!

TIPS FOR PARENTS

§ Plan costumes that are bright and reflective! Consider adding more reflective tape to

§ costumes + trick or treat bags. Always carry flashlights.

§ Masks can limit or block eyesight, consider makeup or cut the mask eyeholes bigger

so they can see. Remind children to remove their masks to cross the street!

§ We recommend that children do not use props like guns, knives, or swords.

§ However, if they are used, make sure they don’t look real!

§ Clear hazards from your property. Remove obstacles such as flower pots and garden

hoses, so children won’t trip on them rushing from house to house.

§ Remind your children not to eat the candy until an adult has checked their treats!

§ Your child’s school may be having a Halloween party. Call the School and ask.

§ Please explain to children the difference between tricks and vandalism.

TIPS FOR BUSINESSES/MOTORISTS

§ Heighten your awareness and be cautious of purchases that may have the potential

to cause personal injury or property damage – such as paint ball guns or large quantities of eggs.

§ Drive slowly and cautiously through your neighborhoods. Remember children may not look before crossing the street.

Please report any suspicious activity immediately to the local law enforcement agency. As always in an emergency call 911. Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!

From our friends at the United States Attorney’s Office

District of South Carolina

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sc

Fall Back

2010-10-26T12:22:00.001-07:00

Just a reminder, fall back time change is November 7th at 2am.

2010-10-12T13:24:00.001-07:00

Ten Reasons to Volunteer for the Association

1. Protect your self-interests. Protect your property values and maintain the quality of life in your community.

2. Correct a problem. Has your car been towed, or do you think maybe maintenance has been neglected?

3. Be sociable. Meet your neighbors, make friends, and exchange opinions.

4. Give back. Repay a little of what’s been done for you.

5. Advance your career. Build your personal resume by including your community volunteer service.

6. Have some fun. Association work isn’t drudgery. It’s fun accomplishing good things with your neighbors.

7. Get educated. Learn how it’s done—we’ll train you.

8. Express yourself. Help with creative projects like community beautification.

9. Earn recognition. If you would like a little attention or validation, your contributions will be recognized and celebrated.

10. Try some altruism. Improve society by helping others.

Crime Prevention

2010-09-28T05:26:00.001-07:00

What is "Suspicious Activity?"

It is something abnormal, possibly indicating criminal activity. It may eventually be found to have a reasonable explanation, but someone needs to notify law enforcement to come check it out. This will possibly prevent a crime from occurring. If people see the suspicious activity but do not call police, the criminal completes his theft unhindered, lives are changed, the criminal continues to vicimize more people, and he might never be located.

Particularly regarding recent daytime home burglaries, often residents have reported seeing some of these indicators to police AFTER the FACT. With all the media coverage recently, it is nearly impossible not to know that these crimes are happening, so PLEASE, if you do see something odd -listed here or not- CALL POLICE.

Call either 911 (in-progress crime, prowler in a back yard) or 577-7434 for Charleston Police dispatch line. The same dispatchers answer both lines, right here at CPD. Cell phones may get County dispatchers, the effect is the same. (If you live in Sheriff's jurisdiction call 911, or 202-1700 for the administrative line)

Suspicious Activity to Call About:

1. Someone loitering or wandering aimlessly, on foot or a bicycle

2. Anyone staring at a home or looking into a parked car

3. Anyone ringing or knocking at your door with unreasonable or odd explanation

4. Someone running from a car, home, or business

5. Sound of breaking glass or breaking wood

6. Persons walking around the neighborhood with items which may have been stolen

7. Strange vehicles passing through or parked with occupants

Charleston Police Crime Prevention Unit

2010-09-13T13:29:00.001-07:00

2010-09-13T13:18:00.001-07:00

James Island has been hit hard with burglaries over the past weekend. The mode of operation appears that the majority of the burglaries are committed during the day, while the occupants are at work. It appears the suspect(s) are gaining access thru the back of a residence mainly by kicking in or forcing open the backdoor.

The agency is currently working hard and following any and all leads to catch these thieves. Remember, when you leave your residence lock it up and turn on your alarm, if you have one, no matter how short of a time you will be gone. Criminals don’t just operate in one particular area, but move to different locations where they may find other victims, so please keep a diligent watch on your communities, and report any suspicious activity directly to the agency at 202-1700. Please pass on this information to your members and neighbors.

Best Regards, Lieutenant Donald L. Martin

Fountains

2010-08-30T07:36:00.000-07:00

Due to some of the ponds water levels being very low, you will see a few fountains turned off. This is temporary until the water levels rise.

Shutter Colors

2010-08-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

If your shutters are in need of repainting, please remember only the original manufacturer colors are allowed. To make this easier for you, Sherwin Williams located at 464 Savannah Hwy has the colors on file for you. Just tell them you are from Meridian Place. The phone number is 556-4021.

Updates

2010-08-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

The median at the Dexter entrance had some irrigation problems and the flowers were not getting enough water. Harry Grant will be replacing the flowers at no extra cost and the irrigation has been fixed.

Dexter Fountain

2010-07-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

The Dexter fountain is out again for repairs. There was water getting into the quick connect causing the fountain to trip the breaker, along with some oil leaking at the top of the seal.

It will be at least 3 weeks before the fountain in back in the pond.

Recycling Calendar

2010-07-08T03:30:00.000-07:00

Please follow this link for the Recycling pickup schedule for Meridian Place

http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/SolidWaste/pubs/calendar.pdf

Please clean up after your pet

2010-07-07T10:17:00.000-07:00

Friendly Reminder…….
Increasingly some of our neighbors have been disrespecting their neighbors by letting Rover leave an unwelcome deposit in someone else’s landscaping and flowerbeds.

In addition to this not being a welcome “decoration” on others’ property, it is creating very negative feelings! It is against the law and can create health issues.

Also, Your neighborhood rules require that you do not allow your pet
to use others property as well as common areas for this purpose.

Thank you!

Yard Sale

2010-06-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

Yard Sale - James Island
Saturday July 3rd starts at 7AM
1684 Dexter Lane, Charleston SC 29412

We just got married and are cleaning out the house to fit our new items!!

We'll be selling mint condition items!

Washer/dryer, kitchen appliances, china, clothing, furniture,
decor, and much more!

Email any questions to
apjordan83@gmail.com

Heather J. Chipley
Office of Undergraduate Admissions

Updates

2010-06-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

The Dexter fountain is shut down temporarily. The pond company is trying to clear up the algae (Spike Rush) problem that keeps clogging up the fountain. When the algae is under control we will turn the fountain back on. (hopefully within a couple weeks)

Harry Grant with Grant landscaping is replacing the Dexter entrance flowers. The irrigation has been checked and is working properly, but for some reason the flowers were not doing very well, so Harry is replacing them at no cost to the HOA.

There are 2 broken lights at the Dexter entrance ( in the middle median) that are being replaced. This will probably be within a week.

Storm Season

2010-06-22T16:20:00.001-07:00

Hurricane season is approaching and I would like to extend some helpful hints in hurricane preparedness for you and your family. Please visit our link below regarding storms.

http://www.cmgcharleston.com/storms.htm

Board Meeting

2010-05-28T06:03:00.001-07:00

The next Board meeting for Meridian Place will be Thursday August 5th at 7pm.

2010-04-28T07:48:00.001-07:00

Charleston County News Release

MEDIA CONTACT
Name: Jennie Davis Flinn, Charleston County Public Information Officer
Phone: (843) 958-4012
Email: jflinn@charlestoncounty.org

Release Number: 3099
Date: April 20, 2010

County Expands Recycling Program to Accept Cardboard at Curbside
Charleston County will begin picking up corrugated cardboard and more paper items during its normal curbside recycling routes

During last Saturday’s 11th Annual Earth Day Festival, Charleston County Council member Colleen Condon announced that Charleston County’s Environmental Management Department has expanded its recycling program to accept corrugated cardboard as part of its residential curbside recycling program. Corrugated cardboard is considered cardboard boxes with a middle “waffle-like” layer.

In addition to cardboard, the County is now also accepting all paper items to include envelopes with plastic windows, gift wrapping paper, etc.

“We are excited to announce that Charleston County now accepts cardboard and all types of paper in our curbside bins and dropsites,” Condon said. “If you can tear it, recycle it in your bin.”

In honor of Earth Day, the County has compost on sale for the month of April at the Bees Ferry Landfill for $1 per bag or $5 per ton, which is half off the regular price.

How to recycle cardboard:
• Residents with curbside service can now place cardboard at the curb with their regular recyclables that are placed in one bin for plastic bottles, glass bottles, aluminum cans, steel cans and aerosol cans, and in another bin for paper, such as magazines, newspaper, junk mail, paperboard (examples: cereal boxes, tissue boxes, etc.) and office paper.
• Curbside residents should flatten and place cardboard boxes, up to three feet by three feet in size, between or under their two bins or inside a separate bin. Curbside recycling in Charleston County is collected bi-weekly in the urban areas starting at 7 a.m.
• Rural residents, as well as curbside users who have cardboard pieces larger than three feet by three feet, can drop their cardboard off at the drop site locations and County staffed Convenience Centers. Charleston County Environmental Management maintains 40 cardboard drop sites and eight Convenience Centers located throughout the County.
• Residents in the rural parts of the County can utilize drop sites and Convenience Centers for recycling services. Drop site locations are open 24 hours per day and seven days a week and are not staffed. Convenience Centers are staffed by Environmental Management Department employees.

Residents can call (843) 720-7111 or visit recycle.charlestoncounty.org to find out their recycling collection day, the nearest drop site location, and Convenience Center addresses and hours of operation.

2010-04-14T05:54:00.001-07:00

Need help with your shutters and mailboxes?
There are two Meridian Place Homeowners who are available for hire to help you with your shutters and mailboxes inexpensively. Please give them a call.
All new mailboxes and address numbers must be approved by our Architectural Review Committee. Call Hollianne.
John Lutz 866-530-2489. Shutters $45, Original Manufacturers Paint Color. Mailbox and address number replacement.
Bob Lippert 345-6204, re-furbishing the shutters and pressure washing of houses and driveways

2010-04-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

The Charleston area is in the process of having the new Automated Meter Reading (AMR) meters installed. You will receive a mailed notice before work is to begin. When the installers arrive on your property, they will knock on your door and identify themselves as a courtesy to inform you of the work being performed.

AMR is a proven technology that allows for consistent and accurate collection of meter readings using wireless communication. It also reduces the need for SCE&G crews to access a customer's property. However, there are times when we will need access to your meter.

A meter reader collects information either by driving or walking near meters that have been outfitted with a device that transmits readings via a secure radio frequency. Once the information is collected, it is transferred to our billing department, where the unique transmitter ID and reading are matched to your account number.

You can read about SCE&G's Automated Meter Reading (AMR) Program at the following link:

http://www.sceg.com/en/residential-services/rates-and-metering/amr/automated-meter-reading-faqs.htm

Board Meeting

2010-03-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

The next Board meeting for Meridian Place will be Thursday April 29th at 7pm located at 1595 Brianna

Crime Watch

2010-03-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

Door to Door Solicitors

Charleston residents are reminded to be aware of door-to-door sales people, particularly “magazine sales”. Usually the concerns about these individuals are property / financial-crime related, but the possibility of a physical assault should not be ignored.

Tips:

1. Post a NO SOLICITING sign on your front door, and maybe another in the yard. (One at the front of the neighborhood is not enforceable)

2. DO NOT Open the door to ANY strangers

3. If someone claims to be from a utility or law enforcement, Request to see ID (through window) and look for an official vehicle.

4. If they are “selling” anything, know that it is perfectly fine to tell them you are not interested, to please leave.

5. If you are interested, request to see their Peddler’s Permit from the City of Charleston (again through the window - see info below).

Know that solicitors are probably breaking the law if they do any of these:

1) Knock IN SPITE of a NO SOLICITING sign

2) Do Not have a City Peddler’s Permit with them(and their company is to

have a Business Permit)

3) Tell you the magazine sale can be donated to be delivered to a charity

(like the Boys & Girls club, etc)

4) If they use ANY High Pressure or Intimidation or will not leave

What to do:

Call Charleston Police at 577-7434, give a description of the subject and

their direction of travel, so an officer can interview them. (Ask to speak to the officer so he can get more details). If they are operating within the law, you'll be advised. If not, they will be dealt with accordingly.

For more info and to see a sample permit, open the attached Crime Prevention Tips booklet.

Lowcountry Food Bank

2010-03-16T10:56:00.001-07:00

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

Amy Kosar

Food Solicitor

Lowcountry Food Bank

akosar@lcfbank.org

(843) 747-8146 ext 108

(843) 475-0625 cell

Next Board Meeting

2010-03-12T05:36:00.000-08:00

The next Board meeting will be held on Thursday March 25th at 6:30pm. Please call Hollianne Stackpoole at 843-795-8484 x316 for details or email at hstackpoole@cmgcharleston.com

Winter Pictures

2010-02-17T07:38:00.000-08:00

When August comes and we are hating the heat, here are some winter pictures to cool us off

2010-02-02T11:55:00.001-08:00

Next Board Meeting

2010-01-29T07:29:00.001-08:00

The next Board meeting for Meridian Place will be held on Thursday February 25th at 6:30pm

Solicitors

2010-01-20T12:51:00.001-08:00

In the last few days a subject was in the Northbridge area apparently trying to solicit for windshield repairs/replacement. The reporting resident advised he was very persistent.

Tips:

Post a NO SOLICITING sign on your front door, and maybe another in the yard. (One at the front of the neighborhood is not enforceable)

DO NOT Open the door to any strangers

If someone claims to be from a utility or law enforcement, Request to see ID (through window) and look for an official vehicle.

If they are “selling” anything, know that it is perfectly fine to tell them you are not interested, to please leave

If you are interested, request to see their Peddler’s Permit from the City of Charleston (again through the window)

Know that solicitors are probably breaking the law if they do any of these:

Knock IN SPITE of a NO SOLICITING sign

Do Not have a City Peddler’s Permit (and their company is to have a Business Permit)

Tell you the magazine sale can be donated to be delivered to a charity (like the Boys & Girls club, etc)

If they use ANY High Pressure or Intimidation or will not leave

What to do:

Call Charleston Police at 577-7434, give a description of the subject and their direction of travel, so an officer can interview them. (Ask to speak to the officer so he can get more details). If they are operating within the law, fine. If not, they will be dealt with accordingly.

Thank you.

2010-01-19T10:36:00.001-08:00

2010-01-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

As if the cold didn't give you enough things to worry about…

Charleston neighborhood presidents, complex managers, residents and merchants,

With the long cold-snap we are predicted to have the next week or two, and through the winter, many people will feel a need to "warm-up" their car in the mornings. Some do it to make it more comfortable for children or themselves; some to get the ice off the windshield; some just to make the car run right.

We highly recommend against leaving a vehicle running and unattended, as this opens an opportunity for the car to be stolen, even in a "safe" neighborhood. On city streets it is unlawful to do it for more than a few minutes, just for this reason.

Who steals cars this way? Consider the middle school kids at the corner tired of waiting in the cold for their bus, or the worker who can't be late again to the jobsite, or the teen runaway looking for a way out, or any other number of scenarios, not to mention professional car thieves.

If you still decide to pre-heat your vehicle (again, we discourage this), please remember that you need to also take steps to keep it from being stolen.

Lock the doors, keep visual observation

Use a CLUB or similar steering-wheel lock (separate the keys)

Block the vehicle in with another car.

Maybe now is the time to clean out that garage and keep the car inside…

People also often feel a need to leave the car running to keep the heater on when they're "just running in for a second". These include school and day-care drop-offs, delivering or picking up take-out food or dry-cleaning, convenience store stops, etc. Cars are stolen this way constantly, occasionally with small children left inside.

Please TURN the CAR OFF, Lock It, and Take The Keys (AND your purse, ladies). The couple of minutes you turn the car off will not make I the car significantly colder. You'll save yourself the misery of waiting in the cold to file the stolen car report and everything else associated with having your car stolen.

Thank you.

Sgt. Shelor

Charleston Police Crime Prevention

769-7407

Annual Meeting

2009-12-02T13:46:00.000-08:00

Meridian Place Annual Meeting will be Wednesday December 9th at 6:30pm located at James Island Charter High School. Notices have been mailed. Please send in your proxies to make sure a quorum is met. If you have any questions or need another copy of the notice please contact me at 843-795-8484 x316

2009-11-09T06:13:00.000-08:00

Knology, Charleston County and the Tanger Outlets present...
Electronic Recycling Day

November 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Tanger Outlets’ parking lot on the Tanger Outlet Blvd. side
Celebrate America Recycles Day!

Bring your old and unused electronics for recycling!
This event is for Charleston County residents only. No businesses or contractors.
For more information about recycling electronics and other items, call 720-7111

Roundtable Meeting

2009-11-06T06:59:00.000-08:00

The Board of Directors will be holding a Roundtable Meeting on Tuesday November 17th at 6:30pm loacted in the Media Room at James Island Charter High School.
Please remember this meeting is open to Homeowners only.

Board Meeting

2009-10-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

The Board meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday October 13th has been rescheduled for Wednesday October 21st at 6:30pm located at 1595 Brianna Ln.

Next Board Meeting

2009-10-09T11:39:00.000-07:00

The next Board Meeting for Meridian Place will be Tuesday, October 13th at 6:30 pm. Location: 1595 Brianna Lane