SUMMER 2008

MORE DAYS ADDED!

The weather is finally warming and preparations to open the Rio Vista pools are in full swing. Opening day is scheduled for the start of the Memorial Day weekend. The pool facilities will be open daily as follow:
 

Saturday, May 24th through Monday, May 26th and all weekends from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Tuesday, May 27th through Friday June 20th weekdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, June 21st, through Labor Day, Monday, September 1st from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
 

There will be two extra weekends after Labor Day, September 6th and 7th, 13th and 14th. Those hours of operation will be 12 noon to 6 p.m.
 

Photo IDs from previous years continue to be valid. If you need one, the administrative office will be taking photo IDs Tuesdays through Fridays noon to 2 p.m. Call 201-760-1258 for an appointment if these hours are not convenient.

In addition, for your further convenience, photo IDs can also be obtained in the clubhouse lounge on Sundays starting May 18th from 10 a.m. to noon.

Guest passes will be available for purchase in the administrative office and during the Sunday hours. The cost is $3 per pass or a book of 10 for $25.

Be sure to click here to see the Pool Rules.  Or see below.

RIO VISTA GOLF NEWS

RIO VISTA OPEN 2008  

Welcome to the 5^th annual Rio Vista Open Golf Season!

For the past four years, Rio Vista has held a series of golf events in local area public and private courses. We have identified approximately fifty golfers in Rio Vista who participate in this annual event. The schedule usually consists of 2 or 3 outings each summer, culminating in the Rio Vista Open where we crown our annual Champion.

The previous Open Championship Winners are as follows:

• Walt Farley (Wild Turkey) - 2004
• Dave Bagatelle (Ballyowen) - 2005
• John Wolfe (Apple Ridge) - 2006
• Phil Lipper (The Tuxedo Club) - 2007

Last year on September 21, 2007, Phil Lipper held off the field of 17 Rio golfers at The Tuxedo Club in Tuxedo Park, NY to take first place honors with a one shot victory. Phil will look to become the first time defending Champion in 2008! Bob McCahill was 2^nd and Bill Compagnone was 3^rd. Ned Lipes posted Low Gross and an assortment of long drive and ‘nearest to the pin’ awards were given out. Bruce Andrews was the member-host and The Tuxedo Club treated us to a great day. 

The other courses in 2007 we played were Manhattan Woods (Pat Borruso member-host) and Minnisceongo GC (Mike Singer member-host). We have already sampled the 2007 preferred courses of interest and we are going to choose from: North Jersey CC (Wayne), Patriot Hills (Stony Point, NY) and Mansion Ridge (Monroe, NY). 

The outings begin typically with a 9 a.m. tee time followed by lunch and drinks at 1 p.m.   

Anyone requesting additional information can call either the Association office or email Mark Arduino at mark_arduino@sandp.com to reserve a spot for these upcoming events.

Article contributed by Mark Arduino.

Thank you, Mark!

COYOTE SEEN IN RIO VISTA

A resident in Rio Vista has reported spotting a coyote in the area in recent weeks.

The police have advised the administrative office as follows:  unless it or any other wild animal is threatening people or property or is destructive in any manner, there is nothing they can do. These animals are not uncommon in the area and are part of nature.

If you do see an animal threatening people or property, police advise contacting them immediately.

HOLIDAY PARTY 2007

Rio Vista residents outdid themselves this year with a record-breaking turn out for the 2007 Holiday Party. More than 300 members attended the gala event that was held on Sunday, December 9, 2007, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the upstairs clubhouse.

Every year, the Association treats its members to a gala holiday celebration. Food, drinks, music and socializing are the orders of the evening.  This year's party guests took these orders seriously.

Much gratitude to the wonderful individuals who did the beautiful decorating for the festivities. Everyone marveled at the decor. The Decorating Committee was Sharon Bagatelle, Rachelle Coats, Sheryn Liva, Joyce Pfaffenberger, Nannette McGraw and Bridgid Scannell. A "thank you" also goes to Cheryl D'Elia for lending a helping hand.

The administrative and maintenance staff deserves appreciation for their hard work in preparing for the event. They are:  Renee Wolfe, Myra Dulberger, Bonnie Berens and John Barrett.

Special thanks to Allen Fishkin who volunteered to serve as photographer.

ANNUAL MEETING 2007

RESULTS

The Rio Vista Mahwah Homeowners Association held its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 24, 2007 at 7 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room in the clubhouse.

Congratulations to Bill Borra, Carrie Figueredo and John Terrano who were elected to the Board.

Thank you to the other candidates who ran!

The two Trustees, whose terms had expired on the Board, were Herb Schlesinger and Alex Cavegn. Both men were excellent Trustees.

Herb Schlesinger has been on the Board of Trustees for about twenty years serving either as a developer or a homeowner at various times. He was always involved and helpful in many Rio Vista projects and issues. Giving generously of himself and his time, Herb's extensive knowledge and background will be missed but all are hopeful that he will continue to be involved with the Board in an advisory capacity.

Alex served a two-year term. Bringing his calm, thoughtful approach, as well as his business background, to the various issues facing the Board, Alex was a tremendous asset and will be missed.

At the meeting, the 2008 Budget was approved.

About 60 Rio Vista residents attended the Annual Meeting. Refreshments were served and many members stayed to socialize afterward.

Thank you to all who sent in their proxies or attended the meeting in person!

The minutes from the Annual Meeting will be posted to the "members only" area of this web site as soon as they are available.

"WINTER WONDERLAND" HOLIDAY PARTY 2006

The Rio Vista Holiday Party took place on Saturday, December 9th from 7 p.m. to midnight in the Association's clubhouse. This year the party decor was exceptional thanks to the Decorating Committee. Praise goes to this Committee whose members were Barbara Davis, Sheryn Liva, Nannette McGraw, Joyce Pfaffenberger, Brigid Scannell, Joyce Terrano and Linda Comerci . The Committee worked many hours during the days before the party making the party room, as well as the entrance area, into the virtual and breath-taking "winter wonderland" pictured above.

About 300 Association members attended the gala event. All enjoyed the beautiful environment created by the Committee. By all accounts, guests had a great time as they dined, danced, made use of the open bar and socialized.

Appreciation also goes to the administrative staff, Myra Dulberger and Renee Wolfe, for all the planning involved in the months prior to the party and pulling it all together. John Barrett, the Association's maintenance man, also contributed to the efforts. Photography was courtesy of Allen Fishkin.

An extra special BIG thank you to Sheryn Liva, Joyce Pfaffenberger and Joyce Terrano for coming into the clubhouse on the Monday after the party to clean up and organize the decorations. In addition, Joyce Terrano put in hours organizing the storage area in the choir loft. John Terrano purchased storage bins that were used to store everything. Thank you to all these wonderful Rio Vista people.

CURB YOUR DOG!!!

A Rio Vista resident has written the following:

Rio Vista is a beautiful place to live. However, I have partaken in very heated discussions with a multitude of dog walkers. Their attitudes are as varied as their methods of dog waste disposal.

The following does not apply to all dog walkers. There are those that show respect and concern for their neighbors. Thank you to those, especially the fine gentleman who walks his two terriers several times daily. He keeps them at least three feet from the curb, on the street side, so his pets never eliminate near or on a neighbor's lawn.

I have found that there are three categories of dog walkers:

1.  The early morning walkers, who briskly make their way through the neighborhood, before the neighbors awaken, allowing their dogs to eliminate on lawns and wherever else they desire.

2.  The late evening walkers, who under cloak of darkness, allow their dogs to walk on other's lawns, eliminate and then probably gloat that they succeeded in not getting caught doing this disgusting act.

3.  Finally, there are the mid-day walkers who, while displaying a casual air, allow their dogs to venture on to the lawns of others to relieve themselves. The owners then briskly continue on their path of "innocence".

Recently, when I approached two individuals, one denied their dog's actions, even though the feces were partially extended from the dog onto my lawn. The other individual denied the dog's urinating when clearly there was a stream of urine running from my driveway onto the lawn. Each of these people abruptly walked away when I asked for their address, still denying their dog's activity. I called after them to have their dogs walk on their lawns and do the damage there. (Urine burns and kills the lawn, leaving brown spots.)

My dog never walks on the public thoroughfare. I keep him in my backyard and disturb no other person's property or possessions.

If a dog needs exercise, let him run on the owner's lawn and tear it up. If a dog needs to mark his territory, let him do so on the owner's property.

Citing town ordinances is meaningless as a disrespectful person ignores these.

I propose getting the address of the offender and reporting them to the town's health officer, citing the breed and color of the dog. This might bring attention to this dastardly act.

This behavior can not continue to be ignored. We, who respect the property of dog walkers, deserve and demand like behavior.

Signed,

A Concerned and Annoyed Rio Vista resident.

PS  Curbing one's dog means that the dog, not the owner, walks on the street side of the curb and not on the lawn.

RENOVATED GYM

RE-OPENS!

The newly renovated and enlarged gym reopened on Wednesday, October 11, 2006.

Spacious and airy, the gym was welcomed with great enthusiasm by all who have seen and/or used it. Besides the existing equipment, the gym also has a second elliptical cross training machine, a new set of free weights and two televisions. A stereo sound system has also been installed. A new weight machine will soon be added.

Appreciation goes to the Board of Trustees who worked long and hard to bring this project to fruition.

Come and see this beautiful addition to the clubhouse for yourself!

SECURITY UPDATE

JULY 2006

Mahwah Chief of Police, James Batelli, has notified the administrative office that there had been three burglaries in Rio Vista in late July. Residents were also to receive "Reverse 911" calls directly from the police notifying them of the incidents.

The streets where these occurred were Bramshill Drive, Emma Court and Great Hall Road. The police will have extra surveillance in the area. Only one of the homes had things stolen and no one was hurt in any of the burglaries.

The police noted that all windows and doors had not been locked nor were security systems armed when the incidents occurred.

The Mahwah Police Department has a web site, www. mahwahpd.org, that contains a Home Security Survey. You can complete the form and if you answer "no" to any question, you can request that the police conduct a home security inspection and make appropriate recommendations to improve the safety and security of your home and family. This service is available to all Township of Mahwah residents.

Some of the 40 questions on the survey are:

Do you set your alarm system whenever you leave your home?

Do you routinely lock your door every time you leave your home?

Do you lock your garage door which leads into your home?

Do you check to see if all windows are locked whenever you leave your home?

Do you call the Mahwah police department to report any and all suspicious activity in your neighborhood? (The police phone number for non-emergency situations is 201-529-1000.  Use 911 for emergencies.)

AREA VANDALISM ALSO SEEN

In addition, vandalism continues to occur in Rio Vista. Recently, graffiti was sprayed on the playground equipment located in the Park area. Association dues paid for the clean up.

If you see any "signatures" sprayed on as graffiti, let the police know. They can sometimes trace the offender by identifying the initials. (You may also call the administrative office at 201-760-1258 with the information.)

Call the police immediately if you notice people loitering around the Rio Vista common grounds who are rowdy, partying late into the night or otherwise do not appear to belong there. The common grounds are the playground, pool, parking lots, etc. (The police phone number for non-emergency situations is 201-529-1000.  Use 911 for emergencies.)

The police emphasize that they urge you to call them to report anything suspicious. (You don't have to give your name.) Again, their phone number for non-emergency situations is 201-529-1000.  Use 911 for emergencies.

The police website also contains useful information about other issues such as identity theft protection, the Citizens Police Academy, events, etc.

NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING

...IS HERE!

For the first time since its inception, the Vista Views newsletter will be accepting advertising.

This will be in the form of simple, standard size, black and white business cards. The charge, payable in advance, will be for the year, which is three issues. Issues are released in January, May and September of each year. Residents and non-residents may participate, however, residents will be charged a lower rate to advertise.

The cost of the advertising will be $175 for residents and $300 for non-residents.

If you are interested, call the administrative office at 201-760-1258. An acceptable business card, accompanied by your check for payment in full, must be received one month prior to newsletter release dates.
 

FYKE ROAD PROPERTY UPDATE

On April 24, 2006 the Mahwah Planning Board adopted a resolution rejecting the rezoning request by the would-be developers of the Fyke Road property, commonly known as "the junkyard".

The following is a brief summary of the Resolution:

The current zoning is for rural residential use which allows for detached single-family dwellings at a density of no more than .5 units per acre on the Fyke Road property. Therefore, seven single-family dwellings could potentially be allowed. The plan submitted by the would-be developers called for the construction of 26 connected dwelling units that would be age restricted.

The Mahwah Planning Board felt..."that this would be an overly intensive use of the site and would be inconsistent with the Rural Residential use designation of the subject property in the Township Master Plan."

In addition, the Mahwah Planning Board believed..."that the proposed rezoning would result in the subject property being inconsistent with the surrounding development pattern."

After reviewing the Township Planner's report as well as other information, the Mahwah Planning Board was..."of the opinion that the proposed rezoning would be inconsistent with the Master Plan and would not be in the best interests of the Township...the Board recommends to the township Council that the proposed rezoning not be implemented at this time."

For more complete information about the Planning Board's Resolution, contact the Mahwah Township. 

THE COVENANTS COMMITTEE

All owners of property in Rio Vista are required to adhere to the by-laws and covenants restrictions.  It is important to emphasize that the purpose and goal of the Covenants Committee is to preserve and enhance property values for all Rio Vista property owners, as well as promote the appearance of an exclusive custom home residential community.

Who is the Covenants Committee?

The Board of Trustees is required to deal with complaints and violations of the covenants restrictions. Other Association members can be appointed by the Board to serve on the Committee.

What is their purpose?

The Committee assures that properties in Rio Vista are maintained in good repair and with visual harmony. Activities that are deleterious to the aesthetics, property values, comfort, general welfare and safety of owners are addressed.

What are their responsibilities and procedures?

Rio Vista property owners must obtain Covenants Committee approval prior to construction or development of a home, as well as for any alterations, additions and improvements to the property.

Other specific areas that the Covenants Committee addresses are landscaping, property maintenance, fencing, signage and home rentals.

The Covenants Committee has the right to impose fines for violations. Ten days prior written notice must be given to a property owner.

Where can I learn more about the Covenants Committee?

The powers and procedures of the Covenants Committee are detailed in the Public Offering Statement. The specific covenants rules, regulations and restrictions are also located in this document.

HOLIDAY PARTY 2005

Another year, another fabulous party!

Once again, hundreds of Rio Vista residents turned out to celebrate the holiday season. This year the setting was a white and gold color scheme with green garlands draped from the chandeliers.  Trees lit with many lights and an illuminated eight-foot wreath added to the sparkle of the event.

There was plenty of food with unlimited drinks and music to complete the party. The menu had most of the favorites from past years. Hors d'oeuvres consisted of jumbo shrimp, sushi, Swedish meatballs and stuffed mushrooms. There was also an ornate "montage" consisting of crab, artichoke and spinach dips, breads, rolls, cheeses, fruits and raw vegetables. The main buffet offered salad, three entrees and side dishes. Fillet of beef, chicken cordon bleu and egg plant rollatini were the entrees.  Side dish selections were roasted potatoes, rice pilaf and green beans almandine. Assorted pastries, brownies, carrot cake squares, chocolate covered strawberries and cake completed the meal. Coffee service was also provided.

Just about everyone enjoyed themselves, catching up with old friends and/or meeting new people.

Much appreciation goes to the administrative and maintenance staff of Rio Vista, Myra Dulberger, Renee Wolfe and John Barrett, who worked long hours planning, shopping and decorating for the party. Allen Fishkin's services as photographer helped capture some of the memories for the future.

Any ideas or suggestions for the next Holiday Party? Feel free to contact the administrative office. Volunteers are especially welcome!

DEVELOPER APOLOGIZES FOR RIO VISTA MAILINGS

You may recently have received a letter from the Woodcliff Lake Development Co., Inc., the possible developer for the Fyke Road property, and noticed that your name and address appeared on the mailing label.

Some residents, who had received the mailing, were concerned that their privacy had been invaded and that an unauthorized release of their names and addresses in Rio Vista had occurred.

The Board of Trustees and the administrative staff have been distressed about this possible violation of privacy as well. They want to assure all Association members that their private information, including their names, addresses and phone numbers, is kept confidential and protected in the administrative office at all times. It is never released to unauthorized sources. The administrative staff takes every precaution to protect members' information including, but not limited to, shredding documents containing sensitive or private information.

The Woodcliff Lake Development Co., Inc., has issued an apology for the recent mailings made by their company to Rio Vista residents:

Woodcliff Lake Development Co., Inc.

PO Box 267

Mahwah, NJ 07430 

Phone:  (201) 934-6299                                             Fax:  (201) 934-7053 

TO:            Mr. John Terrano

                  Chairman Rio Vista Homeowners Association                 

 DATE:      December 7, 2005

Dear Mr. Terrano, 

            We have compiled a list of your residents from various sources so we could write and inform them of our upcoming proposal on the Merrill junkyard site. 

            We apologize to any member who feels we have compromised their privacy.  Accordingly, we have deleted our computer files for their security and no further mailing will be made.

            Over the past 20 years, we have built over 140 homes in Mahwah and consider ourselves part of this community.  We hope to see you at our information session on Saturday, December 10^th. 

Sincerely,

Peter Montalbano

PMM:ctm

 QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION'S FINANCES?

GET THE FACTS!

All Rio Vista Mahwah Homeowners Association members are permitted to examine the books of accounts. Records of income and expenses are kept in the administrative office and are available for inspection by members. All expenditures and receipts are itemized and open to members as well. These serve as the basis for the Board's determining the Association's yearly budget.

Copies of the yearly independent auditor's report are also at the administrative office for members to review. In addition, monthly Balance Sheets and Income Statements are on the "members only" restricted page on this web site.

If you have questions regarding the finances of the Association, get the facts and the answers from the administrative office where the records are kept. Call 201-760-1258 to schedule an appointment to examine these documents.

WARNING

MAGAZINE-SELLING SCAM IS BACK

A magazine-selling scam has returned to Rio Vista.

As reported by some Association residents, a team of two males has been knocking on doors trying to sell magazines claiming that they were "raising money for the soldiers in Iraq".

According to the Mahwah police, door-to-door sellers must obtain a town-issued solicitor's permit to do so. Police recommend that residents not open their doors until they are certain that the salespeople have their permits with them. A call to the police is advisable, and encouraged by the police, if there is any doubt about the legitimacy of the salesperson or persons. 

PARKING OFFERED

FOR WALSH HALL

Several Walsh Hall residents have been using the clubhouse parking lot for their residential parking. It appeared this location was more convenient for them than the WH parking deck. Because of insurance liability issues, they were not permitted to do this without risking having their cars towed.
 

Therefore, the Board of Trustees has decided to offer a very limited number of parking spaces to those residents. In exchange for their signing a Parking License and Waiver Agreement with the Association, as well as a $25 monthly fee, the WH resident releases the Association from liability related to the use of the clubhouse parking.

Contact the administrative office at 201-760-1258 to determine if you qualify and to sign up.

WELCOME TO THE POOL PATIO

Last summer Rio Vista residents enjoyed the beautiful paved patio located right next to the Rio Vista pool. Approved by the Board of Trustees in 2003, Darlington Associates expedited its construction. Moreover, they contributed generously to the cost. Thanks to the Board and Darlington Associates for their enthusiastic and efficient work.

The patio was originally conceived as a place for users of the pools to eat. However, several groups have held small gatherings there. From all accounts a grand time was had by all!

All residents are welcome to use the patio. However, in order to prevent conflicts, as well as keep the patio in good condition, here are a few rules for its use:

1. Notify the administrative office in advance about a group or gathering in order to avoid scheduling conflicts.

2. Grilling will be permitted on the grassy area only-not on the patio.

3. Grills must be removed as soon as possible, preferably on the same day.

4. The patio is to be left in a clean condition and free of debris.

5. Propane tanks are prohibited.

WARNING: UNAUTHORIZED RIO VISTA AFFILIATION

PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINERS & TENNIS INSTRUCTORS CLAIM RIO VISTA CONNECTION

At the present time, Rio Vista Mahwah has no official personal fitness trainers or tennis instructors sponsored by the Association. We are aware that some individuals have represented themselves as such. This is not possible without certain criteria being met by a trainer or instructor such as proof of insurance liability coverage as well as submission of certifications, all of which must be on file with the Association prior to utilizing the facilities.

Should such an Association personal fitness trainer or tennis instructor sponsorship come into existence, the information will be in the Vista Views newsletter as well as posted to this web site.

(Please note: At their own risk, an Association member may hire a personal fitness trainer or tennis instructor of their choice who may accompany them to the Association facilities.)

Please contact the administrative office at 201-760-1258 with any questions or concerns regarding this issue.

TENNIS COURT KEYS

NEW KEYS ISSUED

HELP NEEDED WITH SECURITY PROBLEM

During the summer, Association members were alerted that someone had taken the original padlock that secured the tennis courts. Unfortunately, the replacement lock did not function as well as the original. In addition, another problem was that the existing padlock was no longer being manufactured.

Since then a new padlock and key was installed at the tennis courts. Distribution of the new keys began in October 2004 and the new lock was in place in November 2004. Pick up the new keys at the administrative office on Tuesdays through Fridays between 10 a.m. and 12 noon. If these hours are inconvenient, call 201-760-1258 to schedule an appointment.

SECURITY ALERT--Surface damage to the tennis courts has already occurred. You are encouraged to notify the police if you see the courts being used for any purpose other than tennis. (For example, bike riding, skate boarding, roller blading, etc. cause severe damage to the courts' surface.)

NOTIFY POLICE--The police have informed the administrative office that you can call in your complaint anonymously. In addition, the police will be stepping up their patrols in the area.

Residents who live in the vicinity of the tennis courts and/or use the tennis courts, or happen to be in that area for any reason, are requested to make sure that the gate and padlock are closed and locked. Someone has been leaving the lock open on an almost daily basis, at times even damaging the lock and chain.

IT IS YOUR MONEY--We need your help with this problem in order to protect the security of the tennis courts as well as maintain the integrity of the surface of the courts. Remember, these are your tennis courts, that your dues paid to refinish, at great expense, just a few years ago.

Your help is most appreciated!

THE BEAR FACTS

Complete with a very large, real bearskin and other (artificial) bear artifacts, Liz Jackson appeared at the Rio Vista Mahwah clubhouse on Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 7 p.m. Ms. Jackson is a Public Information Assistant from the Fish & Wildlife Division which is part of the New Jersey State Department of Environmental Protection. The presentation was the result of a response to several homeowners' concerns about the bear situation in the development. The Board of Trustees directed the administrative office to contact all state representatives, governor, senators and assemblymen, in order to find a solution to the problems of living with bears so close to home. These letters from the administrative office lead to Ms. Jackson. Rio Vista Mahwah is most definitely located in bear country.

The bears are a fact of life and learning to deal with this fact is important. Projecting her eye catching and information packed slide show presentation "Living In Bear Country" on the front chapel wall, Ms. Jackson (nicknamed "The Bear Lady") gave an entertainingly lively and highly informative talk about the realities of living in bear country to about 45 Rio Vista residents.

All the information about bears was helpful and much of it was surprising. These animals have an extremely sensitive sense of smell. Obviously, garbage attracts them. But few in the audience were aware that a child who has just finished a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for lunch can also transmit an alluring aroma for the bear to other areas. This is because the smell of food on his, or her, hands can be transferred to the handlebars of a bicycle, for example. This alone is enough to attract a bear. Birdseed and suntan lotion also smell good to a bear.

Another bit of unexpected information was that bears love to hang out up in trees. What may appear to be an empty and peaceful landscape might actually be populated with a bear or two in the tree tops. From there they observe when you put out your trash cans. Once the you leave, the bears descend and feast.

Occasionally, Fish & Wildlife traps bears for various reasons. Usually it is to study the animal and tag it for tracking. But bears, thought to be related to dogs, are believed to be even smarter than canines. It only takes one experience with a trap for the bear to learn to avoid it. But sometimes they even learn how to get the bait while avoiding capture.

If you see a bear, stay far away and make a lot of noise. Let it know you are there. Under no circumstances feed a bear-ever. This could make it aggressive. Don't run. This might trigger its predator instinct and a bear can out race a person. It is also a good swimmer. Almost always bears will simply walk away from people. If it does start to come towards you, back away slowly and keep making noise. Keep an escape route open for the bear. Get indoors as soon as possible. Call the police and the Fish & Wildlife Division. Be especially wary if you see a bear with large tags on its ears. Notify authorities immediately. This, and other bears who don't walk away, should be "conditioned" by the police. This means that buckshot is fired at the bear. Bears are very smart and will want to avoid an area where they've experienced that type of discomfort.

Refreshments were available to all who attended the meeting. Members had a selection of wine, cheese, fruit, crackers, cookies, soda and apple juice. It was a great way to learn about living in bear country.

Please notify the police and the administrative office if you see or hear anything suspicious. The police would rather find out that it was a false alarm than not be called at all.

The administrative office may not always be aware of everything that is going on in Rio Vista. Please inform the office at 201-760-1258 promptly if you learn of any incidence of crime in Rio Vista. With your help, the office can circulate information in a timely manner to the community. More block captains would be helpful for disseminating critical information promptly to residents. Volunteers are needed for flyer distribution.

Coming in the future: Look for reverse 911 service. This means that the police will be able to call residents in specific areas with important information on a more timely basis.

CRIME ALERT

Detectives Martin Clancy & Lewis Santonacita of the Mahwah police personally and urgently request that Rio Vista Mahwah residents increase their vigilance during the holiday season. Since the daylight hours are now shorter, the police say crime traditionally increases because of the longer hours of darkness. In fact, there have recently been a number of burglaries at a nearby housing development. One tactic the criminals used was fraudulent pizza deliverers knocking on doors, asking directions. Another ploy was phony car breakdowns used to gain access to homes or ascertain if a house is empty. The detectives urge residents not to open their doors to strangers. Use alarm systems at all times. Do not leave holiday package deliveries outside which indicate an empty house. The police emphasize that residents should not hesitate to call police at 911 or 201-529-1000 if there is even the slightest suspicious activity in the neighborhood. Rio Vista Mahwah residents are invited to call the detectives at 201-529-1000 with any questions or concerns about this crime alert.

POLICE CHIEF CRIME ALERT

Mahwah's Chief of Police James Battelli has alerted Rio Vista residents to several recent crime incidents. A Seminary Drive resident briefly stepped out of his home to purchase hot dog buns. Upon his return, he encountered an intruder in his home. The intruder fled with the resident in hot pursuit. Unable to catch the perpetrator, the resident called police from a neighbor's home. Police arrived with police dogs and traced the scent of the criminal to a parking lot. Chief Battelli urges residents NOT to confront any intruders personally. Call police immediately. Meanwhile police patrols have been increased in Rio Vista. Residents should not hesitate to contact police regarding any suspicious activity. In particular, the presence of unfamiliar vehicles, even though high end, should be reported immediately.

SECURITY ISSUES

Once again theft and vandalism rear their ugly heads in Rio Vista Mahwah. We have had a rash of lawn ornaments and address signs stolen from the front of houses and lawns in the community. Mailboxes have been knocked over. Trash cans have disappeared. Police have been notified. Residents should be aware that by leaving decorative items outdoors, they risk having them stolen. What to do about this? Consider securing outdoor objects so that they might be less likely to be targeted. Police are aware and are continuing their increased patrols of the area. Vigilance and immediate reporting to the police of anything of suspicion in the community is essential. Please contact the administrative office at 201-760-1258 if you have any additional suggestions.

RADON Some residents in Rio Vista have reported that radon gas in their homes had tested at high levels. Radon is a radioactive gas which is found in certain geographic locations. The gas is odorless, tasteless and invisible. However it can cause long term health problems if it is undetected.
    Detecting radon can either be done by a professional or alternately by purchasing a radon detection kit from a hardware store. The kit contains simple, easy to follow instructions which can alert the user if radon gas levels are at a hazardous level.. Once this is determined, the homeowners can take the steps necessary to protect themselves.
    Radon gas can be dealt with if it does exist at a high level on your premises.