Professional Community Association Management Since 1984
Archived Newsletters
Every month, we issue an electronic newsletter, eNews Monthly, to keep clients informed about Association items, spotlight clients, answer frequently asked questions, and let you know what is happening with the company. Old issues of eNews Monthly are available on our Library page.
Manager Earns Designation
We are proud to announce that Stacey Hitchcock, a portfolio manager at our Houston office, has earned her AMS designation! The AMS (Association Management Specialist) designation is the second level in the career track for community association managers developed by the Community Associations Institute.
The AMS designation demonstrates a higher level of commitment to the community association industry and requires two years of experience in multiple aspects of association management. To qualify for an AMS, managers are required to earn the CMCA designation and successfully complete at least two approved continuing education classes on various association-related topics.
Join us in congratulating Stacey Hitchcock on achieving her latest professional goals!
Raquel Thornton of Community Association for Withers Ridge, Inc.
by Nora Twohy
Strong communities don’t happen by accident—they’re shaped by the dedication and heart of individuals who go above and beyond. This month, we’re honored to spotlight Raquel Thornton, President of the Community Association for Withers Ridge, Inc., for her outstanding leadership and tireless commitment to making her neighborhood a better place for everyone. Her passion and service continue to make a lasting impact.
Since moving to Withers Ridge in 2006, Raquel Thornton and her husband have become an integral part of the neighborhood’s fabric. From the very beginning, their warmth, generosity, and genuine care for others helped shape the strong sense of community we enjoy today.
Raquel joined the Board of Directors in August 2009, and her leadership has been nothing short of remarkable. Whether it’s lending a helping hand to a neighbor, responding to community needs, or simply being a reliable presence, she continues to lead with dedication and heart.
Outside of her role on the Board, Raquel balances being a devoted wife and mother of three with a deep commitment to service. She and her husband volunteer with Meals on Wheels and are always ready to support those facing difficult times. Their quiet acts of kindness and ongoing involvement remind us all of the power of showing up for one another.
We’re proud to recognize Raquel Thornton this month for her years of service and her unwavering commitment to making Withers Ridge a better place for everyone.
Easing the Transition
Back to school time is upon us. Lazy days in the sun are ready to give way to the hustle and bustle of bus schedules, homework, and after-school activities.
For many of us, that means chaos and hectic schedules, but many experts say it doesn’t have to be that way. There are many things we can do to help ease the transition for ourselves and our kids.
Click here to review a list of articles, compiled by Marilyn Price-Mitchell, Ph.D., from many noted experts on back to school tips for everyone.
Tax Free Weekend
Many of us look forward to this annual ’holiday’ to help cushion the cost of back-to-school shopping. This year’s Sales Tax Holiday is set for August 8-10.
The State of Texas designates specific supplies and items that qualify for tax-free shopping.
For more information, lists of qualified purchases and FAQs click here to visit the State’s Tax Holiday website.
We are proud of every one of our communities, so it’s always hard to find just one to spotlight. However, we are always eager to share!
Here are the most recent selections:
To see the full story on these communities and more, visit the Community Spotlight page on our site.
Every month we appreciate the communities that are celebrating their anniversaries with us. Here are the clients that started with us in August.
Our goal has always been to create a positive, long-term relationship with all of our client communities. We are very proud to be managing all of these communities!
Employee Anniversaries
We love to celebrate special milestones with our employees. In the Employee Corner of each eNews issue, we will list all employees who have reached their first anniversary with our company. Additionally, once employees reach five years and become stockholders, we recognize them each year on their anniversary month.
Read on for this month’s company anniversaries.
Stockholder and One Year Anniversaries
Congratulations to Roque Escamilla on his one-year anniversary with us! During his tenure as a member of our Customer Service team, he has consistently been happy to help anyone who needs assistance. In his free time, he enjoys being around his family, girlfriend, and newly adopted cat, Ichigo. He is also a dancer and dance teacher, and he loves to work with his students.
Join us in celebrating Tera Rond on her 6th anniversary with C.I.A. Services! As a Community Manager, she is most proud of the relationships she has developed with her Boards - those of mutual trust, respect, and cooperation. She is a proud mother of 3 and rescue dog owner. Outside of work, she loves being outside, whether it be gardening, floating in the pool, or hanging out with loved ones.
We are thrilled to announce Frances McIntyre’s 20th anniversary! Frances has explored many different roles within the company, currently holding the positions of Lead Community Specialist and Administrative Assistant. She is proud to have the experience needed to lead new additions to our team. In her personal life, she enjoys spending her days with family, traveling, and trying new foods.
Stay Plugged in With Webcasts
We offer each of our seminars in the form of a recorded webcast on demand for you to watch at any time! If you are interested in one of our seminars, they are available on our YouTube channel. The following seminars are now available:
To watch any of the webcasts, simply click on the links above.
Associations in Practice
Our Associations in Practice Series is an offering of short videos with specific topics.
With the Texas 89th legislative session in progress, we have a new video previewing the bills that would impact property owners associations if passed. Check out our Texas 89th Session Preview.
For comparison, you may want to see the legislative action from 2021 and 2023.
We have also started a series of essential seminars providing important basic insights. Two new videos are now available in this series: Governing Documents - What You Need to Know and Certificates of Formation - What You Need to Know.
All of our Associations in Practice Series videos are available on our YouTube channel. We will send updates when new material is added. You can also subscribe to our channel for news on the latest additions.
C.I.A. Services, Inc. has a long and proud history of providing up-to-date news on our company happenings, industry news, and association governance. Each month, we are pleased to share our eNews Monthly. Each issue is loaded with great information!
We also provide updates through LinkedIn and Facebook. With these additional layers of communication, you can always find the latest information about our company, employees, association management, and other related news.
If you are not already following us, please ”Like” us on Facebook and “Follow” us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on all things C.I.A. Services and beyond.
customercare@ciaservices.com
Toll Free: 866-219-0563
Houston 713-981-9000
San Antonio 210-490-0000
