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4 | LIFE IN SOLERA | APRIL 2022 | Driving Awareness By Marcia Casem Many of us have been fortunate to have lived in Solera for more than 10 years. We drive through the community to the Mail Room every day, to the Clubhouse for activities and meetings, to the closest exit for shopping, or to see friends throughout the area. My guess is that most of us know the streets, stop sign locations, and posted speed limits. Again, my guess is that most of us follow the speed limits and stop at the intersections. There are residents and guests who do not always follow the speed limits or stop at the intersections. Here is something to consider: There are streets that intersect with a street that, if you are not looking for it, you can drive right past it in the blink of an eye. When drivers don't stop at the stop sign on North Forest Oaks (which goes across the intersection toward South Forest Oaks), or fail to stop at the signs on Fairway in either direction prior to making a turn onto South Forest Oaks, they will not realize that Sarazen crosses South Forest Oaks, a street the length of one house from the aformentioned intersection. People live on Sarazen and, if they drive up to South Forest Oaks Dr., it is likely they won't see a speeding car as it turns the corner, or comes across the intersection. Alternatively, that speeding car may not see them. This is just an example. There are many side streets, some of which do not have a four-way stop at the intersection. Drivers on the side streets are cautious to stop and look both ways before pulling out. Most of these streets do not have another street one house away. Many times, I turn off of Fairway onto South Forest Oaks Dr. and find myself driving up on people walking their dog, a car parked right at the side of the house on the corner, or cars pulling off Sarazen. If I had not stopped at the stop sign first and just turned quickly around the corner, it would be easy to run into walkers or cars. Please be aware that people walk at all times of the day, cars park on the streets, and not every intersection is a four-way stop. Slow down, stop behind the crosswalk, be patient and drive safely. And remember to ask your guests to do the same. Residents are responsible for their guest's driving in Solera. We would like to give Alex Avila and Dave Paredes, our HOA Monitors, a big thank you for all they do for our community. These young men have been here at Solera for six years and previously worked at Sun Lakes. You have likely seen them around the Clubhouse, the pool, or the tennis courts. They play an important role in keeping our common areas spic and span. Their duties are extensive and include cleaning, repairing, replacing, and generally making sure everything is in tip-top shape. They keep an eye out to ensure our Rules and Regulations are being followed and help our clubs and guests set up tables, chairs, decorations, and audio/sound equipment (sometimes teaching us how to use them). With all they do, they always have a big smile and hello for everyone. So when you see them, say "Hi" and let them know what a good job they are doing. ~ George Vawter T HANK YOU!

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