SDCEA COMMUNICATIONS
Connecting Our Community
The Valley News is published and emailed weekly for the members of San Diego Country Estates. Timely and relevant information is presented by our business, lifestyle and amenity managers, and we share stories about interesting residents and unique Ramona events.
Monthly features include an Association update letter by our General Manager, Financials, our Board of Directors meeting draft minutes and the SDCEA Community Calendar.
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Community News
Jan Ryan's Annual Yard Sale is this Saturday, May 17. Shop local treasures. Meet your neighbors. And become part of something special.
As spring brings fresh energy and growth, we're proud to recognize someone who brings the same qualities to our team every day. Our May Employee of the Month, Ashlie Alshouse, stands out for her dedication, positivity, and exceptional contributions that strengthen our workplace and contribute to its success.
Recreation Manager Amy Holsapple-Lueck’s 27-year journey with SDCEA reflects her deep commitment to children, families, and the community she loves.
Annual mowing of Open Spaces and homeowners' easements is underway, with expanded coverage this year due to Fire Fuel Management efforts. Completion is expected by mid-to-late July.
Board & Governance
As home improvement season begins, the Community Relations Department is ready to assist homeowners with project applications, permits, and guidance.
The Environmental Control Committee (ECC) upholds community standards by reviewing homeowner applications, ensuring compliance with governing documents, and making updates to enhance property values and safety.
There was an excellent turnout of homeowners who attended the 2025 Board of Directors Meet the Candidates Night to hear from candidates, ask questions, and prepare for the upcoming election. Watch the event video to learn more about the candidates and make an informed vote.
SDCEA invites residents to join committees that shape community facilities, policies, and activities.
Lifestyle & Amenities
May brought exciting progress at the Equestrian Centers, including the promotion of Marissa Travis to Equestrian Supervisor, essential tree trimming, the installation of a new well tank, and ongoing mowing and weeding.
SDCEA members can take advantage of free spring clean-up days on May 3 (green waste) and May 10 (bulk items) at the International Equestrian Center, courtesy of the Community Relations Team.
The Equestrian Team remained active throughout March, focusing on maintenance, safety, and welcoming new boarders.
Kelly Van Zant has been a trainer at the IEC since 2016 and embodies a true passion for horses, sharing her knowledge and love for the sport with every rider she teaches.
San Vicente Resort - Golf
Golf isn't just a job for PGA Professional Michael Gainey; it's a family affair. By day, he is a Southern California Career Consultant for the PGA of America. But off the clock, you can find him walking along the fairways with his own kids, sharing tips, encouragement, and the same love for the sport that launched his career.
Golf is more than just a game; it’s a journey of personal growth, skill refinement, and pure enjoyment. At San Vicente Golf Course, we make that journey easy and convenient with expert lessons tailored to golfers of all skill levels and all ages. With the guidance of an experienced golfer, you’ll unlock your potential and discover why lessons are the key to mastering your game.
Help First Responders and Military Families: Join us for the Dan Reed Memorial Golf Classic, a Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T) annual fundraiser, on Friday, May 30, at San Vicente Resort.
Bringing together new faces and lifelong friends, the Nine & Wine golf event at San Vicente is all about building connections, boosting confidence on the course, and celebrating the simple joys of golf and great company.
San Vicente Resort - Dining and Entertainment
Three Hills Winery, nestled in the heart of Ramona's wine country, offers wine enthusiasts a serene and inviting atmosphere. Owned and operated by Tobias and Carrie Panek, this family-run vineyard spans nine acres, including three acres of vineyards and a picturesque one-acre lake surrounded by shade trees.
Singer-songwriter Ashley E Norton and Marcia Claire celebrated their birthday dressed in pink at the Par Lounge on Wednesday, February 26, featuring the Smoking Cannon Brewery. This was the San Vicente Resort's first craft beer tasting this year.
From local talent to seasoned musicians, the Par Lounge is where you’ll find amazing live music. Meet Colleen Doulgeropoulos who brings in the talent.
Local artist Rose Evans created art for the Par Lounge that lets guests know the place is alive with music. The walls speak for themselves, and art captures the spirit, history, and soul of the space and our town's booming music scene.
San Vicente Resort - Guest Rooms
A home for your guests right down the road.
San Vicente Resort is refreshing its guest rooms with a new warm white paint color, upgraded furniture, and exclusive homeowner rates. We invite guests to experience the transformation and attend a special open house in June 2025.
The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones, and San Vicente Resort's guest rooms are the perfect destination to host your visiting family and friends.
This holiday season, give the ultimate gift of quality time with family and friends at San Vicente Resort Lodge, where exclusive homeowner rates, recently upgraded and spacious accommodations, and a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure await—just moments from your home.
Safety & Security
Firewise volunteers will survey SDCE homes this month to assess fire risks and help develop a 5-year community fire prevention plan.
Extensive fire fuel clearing and trail restoration on Nature Trail East has enhanced safety, accessibility, and natural beauty for the community, with more work planned in the fall.
On Saturday morning, April 12, the IEC Rotunda buzzed with purpose as 40 SDCEA homeowners and residents gathered to take action toward protecting their homes and community from wildfire. The Firewise Educational Training workshop brought together local fire experts, law enforcement, and community leaders, all offering practical knowledge and guidance.
Your neighbors found the Fire Safety Assessment to be a truly helpful experience, with many appreciating the personalized guidance and proactive steps they could take to better protect their homes.
Home Improvement & Tips
As the days grow longer and the air turns warmer, spring signals the perfect time to start, refresh, and revitalize your garden. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, now is the time to prepare your soil, select plants, and set the stage for a season of growth.
Home improvement projects happen year-round. Connect with the Community Relations team to process your applications.
Read highlights about the rapid and widespread tightening of the insurance marketplace affecting home and auto policies across various states, emphasizing increased premiums, policy restrictions, and strategic recommendations for navigating these industry shifts.
Going without screens can be a challenge for kids at first, but memories can be made over time while enhancing both their lives and mom’s.
Member Spotlight & Stories
Mother’s Day is a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the extraordinary women who shape our lives with love, strength, and boundless devotion. This year, we shine the spotlight on one super special mom, Krystin Withers, who goes above and beyond every single day.
Edie Hazen’s journey from battling cancer and life-altering surgeries to winning golf tournaments showcases her unwavering determination, positivity, and the power of perseverance.
Local businessman Daniel Towers, known as Danny, combines his love for Ramona, food, and cooking to create something truly special—Danny's Kitchen.
Meet Hannah Anderson, SDCE resident and longtime golfer. Having played since her childhood, she showcases her skills on the Cal State San Marcos women's team, where she has placed in various tournaments and celebrated team victories.
Ramona Happenings
Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and get ready for some classic cars, cool tunes, and community pride. Ramona Cruise nights have begun, and Thursday, May 1, marked the first of four cruise nights through SDCE this season. Car lovers and families alike can enjoy an evening of nostalgia and neighborly connection while watching vintage vehicles roll through the Estates in a celebration of Ramona’s small-town charm.
Barrel racers from across Southern California gathered at the Ramona Rodeo Arena on Sunday, April 13, for a thrilling day of speed, skill, and camaraderie. With about 100 competitors and $500 added to the pot, the event showcased the heart and hustle of a passionate rodeo community.
Last weekend, the two-day Ramona Artist Open Studios Tour invited art lovers, creatives, and curious visitors to explore the vibrant artistic community nestled in the heart of Ramona.
Join us for lunch and learn about San Diego County Voter ID efforts.
