MEETING NOTICES - CHANNEL 63

Hi All,
In order to preclude the need to watch the entire schedule on CVTV - 63, Ed has placed Meeting notices around the start of each and every hour.

So, if you tune in at 5 minutes before the hour; all meetings will be presented in the slot up to about 5 minutes past the hour.

These same meeting announcements are also scattered throughout the schedule, in order to comply with the FS-718 requirement to notice meetings in broadcast media at least 4 times per hour.

So, if you are in a hurry; tune in 5 minutes before any hour to get the 411 on meetings.

thanks Ed.

Dave Israel

Don Imus , The Godfather talks about John Edwards

Click Header

A Little Material Girl To Wake You Up.

What Next?

Tuesday night's karaoke has been eliminated , the outcome of the last
Operations committee meeting with Ms. Cruz. Not having the minutes
in my possession, I cannot quote, however, due in fact to a motion made
by one of the committee members, obiviously seconded and approved
by ALL of those present ( VP Frank Cornish was out of town) it was
concluded that both Jack, who essentially is responsible for bringing
Karaoke into the village, following the first hurricane, and Tommy&
Dolores, who replaced the original host of Tuesdays' night, Bo, would
alternate as "hosts" Friday Night...... both of these "hosts" have their
own unique style~ and following...why should the villagers, not be able
to enjoy BOTH evenings? It cannot be financial, the budget, provides
for it...and if in fact, one evening is eliminated, where will the EXCESS
monies go? Into the General Fund? How about transportation?
they certainly COULD use additional funds, considering the excessive
daily trips, for grocery shopping, gaming etc., not to mention, the collective hours spent "Idlying" in front of both the club house, and Publics on Community Drive.....

As my topic states " What's Next?"

NEW X-WORD AVAILABLE

Hi All,

See URL at end of Sidebar for a new X-word; it is a large size puzzle but straight forward to solve.

Soon I shall make a deviously difficult puzzle to stump the Nutmegger utterly!

Dave Israel

This is my Last Patriot

Click header

Delivery of UCO Reporter

I wish there were a better way for our association to get the UCO Reporter each month. The system that was in place, and apparently is back in place now, was for one representative for all the Sheffields (or Chathams, Oxfords, etc.) to pick up ALL the magazines for the Sheffields and be responsible for delivering them. This just hasn't worked for us, perhaps because we are one of the largest groups of associations (17 in all). We have tried but to no avail.

It is too much to expect any one person to do this month after month. Some have done this for a year or more, gotten virtually no cooperation, and then had to give it up. One of our residents tried assigning a month to each association (A through Q). In theory this should have worked and shouldn't have been a burden, for, after all, each association representative would only have had to do the job once in 17 months. But it didn't work, because there just wasn't the cooperation, and the poor person in charge ended up doing the job herself many times. Finally, she gave it up. I can't blame her.

The problem is more than an unwillingness to pitch in, I think, though. People are always moving, and the responsible association owners and board members are always changing, so today's list of volunteers is completely outdated six months later. There has to be a better way, especially for the larger groups of associations like ours.

Why not have the UCO Reporter delivered just as your daily newspaper is? Well, apparently other groups of associations were having the same sort of delivery problem we were having, so for two months this summer the magazine was delivered. At long last, we thought: the solution.

Now UCO has reverted back to the old system. "Why?" I asked. The answer I got from Irving Lazar (who is doing the best job he can, I believe) was twofold. First, and primarily, the cost of printing the magazine had gone up, so we no longer could afford to pay for the delivery. Second, the delivery took a long time, a good week, I think Irving said.

I would like to address both these points. With regard to the cost of production, it just happened I said to Irving a couple of months before (when I was FINALLY "allowed" to pick up the magazines for just our association) that it must cost quite a bit to print the magazine. His answer surprised me. He said we actually MAKE money on the magazine, and it seemed he meant quite a bit, because of the number of ads. When I saw him more recently (and was "allowed" to pick up only ONE copy of the magazine and told I would have to wait a week to pick up enough for our association!), I said, "With that extra money from the ads you told me about, why can't the delivery continue to be paid for?" He answered, honestly, I'm sure, that this was out of his hands, a decision made "higher up." It sounded to me as though a decision had been made to siphon off the extra money there had been to pay for non-magazine shortfalls.

As for delivery of the magazines taking a week or longer (due partly, Irving said, to the fact delivery was done by an open golf cart, so when it rained, delivery was postponed), I don't think its taking a week was really all that bad. We certainly got the magazine faster than under the old (and now again current) system. And surely the kind of delivery vehicle could be improved upon in time. Get someone with a station wagon, such as the Palm Beach Post uses.

The UCO Reporter is THE most important means of communication we have in the Village. Far more people read the Reporter than go to any meetings. It is important it be delivered in a timely fashion. Newspapers arrange for their own delivery right to your door. You don't have to have a representative run to the Palm Beach Post plant and pick up copies. The UCO Reporter should operate in the same way. Money from the ads should go toward the magazine production AND DELIVERY. Then, and only then, if funds are left over, perhaps they could go elsewhere.

An efficiently run delivery service would save a lot of work for the UCO personnel, would save a lot of work on the part of the volunteers who now distribute them, and would result in the news getting out promptly rather than weeks later.

Lanny Howe

NEW WPRF COMPUTER FOR UNIT OWNER USE

BLOGMEISTER tests new WPRF Computer
Photo By: Ken Davis

Newly installed in the WPRF Staff Office off the main lobby in the Clubhouse; is a Workstation for Unit Owner use. I have tested the machine and find it to be an excellent, well configured machine. Following is a brief description of the machine parameters, the Software and the rules for usage.

-----

Brand/Model: Dell, Vostro 200 series

-----

Monitor: Flat panel LCD 16:9 aspect ratio, Circa 20 inch.

-----

Software: Power point, Microsoft Word and Excel Spreadsheet, Windows Media Player, Microsoft Office Tools, Power DVD Player, Windows movie maker and Outlook 2002, to name but a few.

-----

Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition

-----

Memory: 1024Mbyte

Hard Drive: 75Gbyte

Clock speed: 1.75Ghz

-----

INTERNET Connectivity: Via WiFi.

-----

Browser: Internet Explorer

-----

Email: Via Microsoft Outlook

-----

Read/Write Media: CD/DVD burner Re-writeable (No Floppy drive)

-----

I/O: USB and Audio

-----

RULES OF USE

--------------------

1) Give your ID to a WPRF Staffer, who will make a record of your machine usage.

2) You may then use the machine for 45 minutes, after which you must Log off and your ID will be returned.

3) Staffers will not provide instruction on the use of the Computer.

-----

Dave Israel

Homicides in PB County 2007

If you click on the zoom-in you will find CV was a fine place to be in 2007. http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/content/news/pbc_murders_2007.html

Its amazing what you find on the internet when you have to hang around home waiting for UPS deliveries.

Skeeters and Mossies

A helicopter will spray for mosquitoes starting at sundown Thursday 8/28, the Palm Beach County Division of Mosquito Control said today.
I hope they get the north Canal, the mosquitoes are very aggressive there, you have been warned.

Why all the big banks might be in trouble?

Click Header

Retired Congressman Phill Gramm was the Author of the Bill that repealed Glass- Steagall Act in 1999. He is John McCain's finance advisor and works for one of the big banks lobbying congress today. Just a little info. Mike

BLOG DINNER

The food and conversation were great. All the World and UCO problems have been solved. I just got a text message from Hillary and she will break bread with us next month.
Mike

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your BLOGMEISTER appends:

The conclave was really great and the Pizza delicious; two large ( 16 inch) pies devoured all but two slices.

Present were:
Mike, Chris, Grace, Ed, Elaine, The Nuttmegger and of course The BLOGMEISTER!

There will be other gatherings; think about attending, even some of you A Nony Mouses.

Dave

wikiHow get-rid-of-ants

http://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Ants more than you ever needed.

wikiHow is a trip - wikiHow is a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. With your edits, we can create a free resource that helps millions of people by offering solutions to the problems of everyday life. wikiHow currently contains 43,152 articles — written, edited, and maintained primarily by volunteers.
http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page

Movies and Shows

There has been much chatter about the movies and the shows at the Clubhouse. Here is the link to all 4 Villages for the Clubhouse Happenings. http://www.centuryvillagetheater.com/

OPERATIONS COMMITTEE AND THE WATER FOUNTAINS

Hi All,
One of the many items discussed at the Operations Committee meeting today was the work in progress on the water fountains.

We are working with Florida Power and Light (FPL), who will install a transformer which will allow connection of the fountains to the local power grid. FPL is very busy at this time due to extensive damage to the FPL infrastructure caused by TS Fay.

In due course the connection will be made; at that time we must determine the condition of the pumps and what degree of corrosion is involved, it is not clear that the fountains will just plug in and work.

So, please be patient and be assured that the issue is being worked by UCO and WPRF jointly.

Also, consider attending the Operations Committee meetings, as many interesting and important matters are discussed.

Dave Israel

OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING

ANY INFORMATION ON THE OUTCOME OF TUESDAY'S
KAREOKE, WHICH WAS BROUGHT UP AT THE PREVIOUS MEETING AND WAS TABLED?

CHANNEL 63 MUSIC RETURNS

Hi All,
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of our COMCAST Rep. Christine Saxon, Ken Davis, Ed Black and yours truly, the music background on CVTV 63 has been restored.

Please check it out and let us know what you think.

Thanks,
Dave Israel

Water Craft Removal

Hi All:The following is a letter from Anita Cruz of WPRF......Please see to it that alll water craft owners receive this notice to permit them time to respond. Please read the passage in red (my color choice) so owners of said craft will not be surprised.

Ed Black



W.P .R.F., Inc.
200 CENTURY BOULEVARD
WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33417-2247
(561) 640-3111 Ext. 4
FAX: (561) 640-0075
August 8, 2008

All Condominium Associations

Re: Boats and Watercraft
Over the last several months, an issue has arisen regarding the storage of sailboats and other types of watercraft on the lakes and on the shoreline around the lakes within the West Palm Beach Century Village®. As many of you know, UCO is in the process of initiating a shoreline restoration project throughout the entire village. In furtherance of that project and to clarify W.P.R.F., Inc.'s position regarding this matter, I have been requested by the UCO Operations Committee to advise the Century Village® condominium boards of directors and residents that all privately owned sailboats and other watercraft must be removed from the lakes and the shoreline around the lakes within six (6) weeks of the date of this letter. The purpose of this letter is to give sufficient advance notice to allow all boat and watercraft owners to make other arrangements for the storage and use of their watercraft outside of the West Palm Beach Century Village®. The onIy boats and/or watercraft that will be allowed to be used within Century Village® will be those that are owned by W.P.R.F., Inc. and located in the appropriate sailboat area outside of the main Century Village® Clubhouse.

The presence of privately owned boats and other watercraft will present a very serious hazard to life and property if a hurricane, tornado or other natural disaster should strike our community. Therefore, it is imperative that the removal of all boats and watercraft be permanent. There will be no exceptions.
Please keep in mind that the prohibition of boats and other watercraft is contained in the original condominium documents as well as in the 1999 model documents that were adopted by many of the associations within Century Village®. Additionally, the cost of maintenance and repairs to the interior lakes and canals was made a part of the operational rent under the Millennium UCO Amendment to the Long Term Lease and the Operating Agreement attached thereto.

Anyone failing to remove their sailboat and/or other watercraft from any lake and/or shoreline within the West Palm Beach Century Village® before September 19, 2008 shall have their watercraft removed by W.P.R.F., Inc. and stored off site. The cost of removal and storage will then be added to the owner's W.P.R.F., Inc. account. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation in this regard.
Sincerely,
W.P.R.F., INC.

Signed by Anita Cruz

By:Anita J Cruz, as Vice President

GATE PASSES

Hi All,
The following is extracted from the CV Q & A:
Dave Israel
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


VISITORS PASS

Author: Dorothy Schornick (---.proxy.aol.com)

Date: 08-25-08 19:56

Question:
Is there an annual pass that can be obtained for a visitor to come into the gate and for how long can this pass be used during that year, meaning days, weeks, etc? I hope this is clear.. Thank you....
Reply To This Message

Re: VISITORS PASS

Author: Ken Davis (---.hsd1.fl.comcast.net)

Date: 08-26-08 07:28

Dorothy;

If you are referring to replacing the gate pass which you have been getting with a 90 day expiration date, the answer is Yes.

My understanding is that there will be no pass issued. The visitor will be put into the system and show their Drivers License at the gate upon entering. For more concise information, call UCO at 683-9189 and ask for the person issuing passes.

Pizza Nite for CV Bloggers

Join us at Paisano's on Wednesday at 6pm. 8/27/08
Paisano's is out the Okee gate, look across Okeechobee right, next to Royal Subs. It is cozy, new decor, and clean.
Dave promises to be there, the first blog event for him.
Paisano's Pizza maps.google.com 5926 Okeechobee BlvdWest Palm Beach, FL 33417(561) 687-3443

Simultaneous Open Mtgs

09/09 Tue 9:30 am Irrigation/Infrastructure Channel 63
09/09 Tue 10:00 am Maintenance Room C
Open meetings takes more than an open door, residents need to be able to go to both of these meetings, Pat Blunck our LCAM should also probably be able to go to both. You have plenty time to adjust this UCO.

Beijing Olympics Costumes

I would like to see the 47 styles of costumes at the Beijing Olympics I have not found a site for that yet, but - There are some great photos at boston.com.
They take awhile to load on my pc but worth it, wait for the lower task bar to say ‘Done’. CLick on title or -
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2008/08/2008_olympics_opening_ceremony.html

Participants were dressed in some 15-thousand costumes in 47 styles. More than 25-hundred special lights were used, and some of the special effects were dreamlike and almost magical.

Heresssssssssssssssssssss MOTHER

Click Header

Donovon was FATHER
Mike

SAFE DRIVING COURSE AT CLUBHOUSE CAN SAVE YOU MONEY ON INSURANCE

Hi All,
The following post was forwarded by Lannie Howe.
Dave Israel

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On August 2, my neighbor and I took the 4-hour course on Safe Driving
at the clubhouse.

We passed, as did everybody else (I think virtually
no one fails), received our certificates, and sent them to our
respective car insurance companies.

My neighbor got a semi-annual reduction of about $45 on her premium, and I get a $34 semi-annual reduction.

The course, arranged for ahead of time at the WPRF office
in the clubhouse and called "Coaching the Mature Driver," costs $15
per person.

The insurances savings are good for three years.

The course was well taught, and we all picked up a number of good
pointers.

No one need be afraid of taking it.

You don't jeopardize your right to drive in any way, and the insurance savings, which vary
from company to company, can be well worthwhile.

Through the end of 2008, the course will be held in Room C on the first Tuesday of every
month except in November, when, due to election day, it will be held
on Monday, November 3.

Lanny H.

Who Is Running America? Lobbyists Thats Who.

Click on header
This is great info, if anyone beside me cares about it.
Mike

Joe Biden for VP

How about that Joe Biden! I like him. He seem honest, strong, smart, love of family, love of country, wonderful background, speaks his mind. I like his story, I like where he comes from. Wish he was on the top of the ticket.
Chris

JIGGLE DIAGNOSIS

Hi All,

There will be some adjustments to the Sidebar in an attempt to diagnose the cause of the jiggles.

Dave Israel

Where in 718 ?

Page two...UCO Reporter...September 2008...." No person shall be permitted to occupy a unit without a certificate of approval per Florida statute 718 "

Anyone, please tell me where in Florida Statutes 718 I can find this statement.

Thanks in advance.

A SHIP LIKE NO OTHER

For all you Ex Navy Rates I suspect you have never seen a vessel quite like this Hi-Tech. Stealth technology Anti-Terrorist Ship.

USS New York

It was built with 24 tons of scrap steel from the World Trade Center .

It is the fifth in a new class of warship - designed for missions that include 20 special operations against terrorists.

It will carry a crew of 360 sailors and 700 combat-ready Marines to be delivered ashore by helicopters and assault craft.

Steel from the World Trade Center was melted down in a foundry in Amite, LA to cast the ship's bow section. When it was poured into the molds on Sept 9, 2003, 'those big rough steelworkers treated it with total reverence,' recalled Navy Capt. Kevin Wensing, who was there.

'It was a spiritual moment for everybody there.' Junior Chavers, foundry operations manager, said that when the trade center steel first arrived, he touched it with his hand and the 'hair on my neck stood up.'

'It had a big meaning to it for all of us,' he said. 'They knocked us down. They can't keep us down. We're going to be back.' The ship's motto? 'Never Forget'

Dave Israel

UCO OFFICE BLDG. AUG. 22, 2008

Hi All,

Shown above, The new UCO Office Building is well advanced in construction.

Photo by Ken Davis.

Dave Israel

UCO Reporter

I have just finished reading the new UCO reporter and I think it is the best issue I have seen in 3 years. There is a spirit of cooperation, no bashing, some fun jokes. I am not a real poetry fan but the one on page 28 by Suzanne Cohen is wonderful. Tales from the cold war by Dave Israel just confirms to me how little I know about what is actually going on in the world. Stu Richland's How old is old, is interesting and thought provoking. The Village of Hopes by "The Villager" talks about all the good things that happen here in the Village.

I do not like many of the "added fees" that Jeff Koons talks about. $1.00 each to take a book out of the library, Fees for some of our wonderful county parks. These are the things that families can do that are free. Free helps the average man who can barely afford gas and food still have some fun with their family. I take ten books at a time from the library 2-3 times a month. I would stop using and would miss greatly. I do not use Palm Tran or Tri-rail but increasing their fees would again hurt the people who are just trying to get by. I understand that the county has real money problems but these fees will hurt the little man the hardest. I wish I could come up with a sound suggestion for making up these shortfalls but I can't. I would suggest that politicians at all levels that are convicted of fraud should lose their pensions and benefits. That is what would happen to us if we stole from our company and got fired.

Sorry about the negative paragraph in a comment that was meant to be totally affirmative. Thank you to the Reporter Staff for such a good issue and thank you to all who contributed.

SCROLLING CRAWLER

Hi All,
We seek your opinion on the two crawlers at the top of the Sidebar.
Do you prefer;

Number 1

Number 2

or

Remove both

Do not consider content, rather consider the style; please respond in comment stream.

Dave Israel

OPEN MEETING RESOLUTION via ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING

Please be advised that the Open Meeting Resolution, Section 3, has been unanimously approved by the Advisory Committee this morning. It was referred to the Officers' Committee, which will refer this matter to the Executive Board, with or without recommendation. It will be presented at the next meeting of the Delegate Assembly for final adoption. The following proposed amendment to the Open Meeting Resolution, Section 3, is as follows:

Section 3: THAT the Officers’ Committee shall be exempt from these meeting provisions in order to make the mundane and low impact decisions necessary to be made on a regular basis or to hold meetings for the purpose of information sharing and informal discussion on matters of importance, except, that the monthly meetings or Special Meetings or informal meetings on any matter that requires AND produces a final Officers’ Committee recommendation or final report to the Executive Board shall be bound by the provisions of this Resolution. In addition, meetings of any committee which are of such a time sensitive nature that they cannot reasonably meet the 48 hour noticing requirement may be held without such notice. The minutes of any such “Emergency Meetings” shall be recorded and distributed to the Executive Board and Delegate Assembly along with the minutes of the monthly meetings of the Officers’ Committee and Executive Board.

COMCAST MAINTENANCE NUMBER

Hi All,
Our COMCAST Rep. Christine has provided the correct number to call for COMCAST Cable TV maintenance and malfunction issues; Service Reps. at this number should be familiar with the CV special Channel bundle.

The number that residents should call is 655-3842. When a Customer Service Rep looks up a particular account, each account within Century Village has notes on it denoting what services are provided as part of the Bulk Agreement. So the Rep will know what the resident should or should not get.

Dave Israel

CV CABLE TV

Hi All,
I have received a call that Channels 27, 28, 29 and 17 has vanished from the lineup. You will recognize channels 27, 28 and 29 as our special HBO channels.

I have attempted to contact our COMCAST Rep. to investigate the cause, thus far without success.

My first thought is that this is storm related, so do not be concerned, it will be restored in due course.

I will keep you informed.

Please advise in the Comment stream if you are observing the same problem of missing channels.

Thanks,
Dave Israel

ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING - RESCHEDULE

Hi All,
Due to inclement weather, the ADVISORY Committee meeting is rescheduled as follows:

DAY:..........Thursday

DATE:.......August 21, 2008

TIME:.......10:00AM

PLACE:.....Clubhouse, Music Room B

Per Randall Borchardt, Chair Advisory Committee.

Dave Israel

Fay for northerners - live webcams

Morning and my NW area of CV has electricity and cable, touch wood! The scientific out-the-window forecast shows lashing rain, standing water on streets, broken branches, soggy pigeons.
If you northerners are jealous you can look at live webcams at http://www.co.palm-beach.fl.us/parks/aquatics/inletwebcams.htm, (title link) click on the one you want. Only Jupiter seems to be updating properly this morning, see date time on corner of pics. The Jupiter site has lots of info. Graphs, plots, cams, wind, surf, moon, tides. Thx to Mike.
Real Time 'Weather-Loop' Video - nothing but rain on the lens!

PB CT.PRIMARY ELECTION INFO

Click Header
Mike

Movie Review

There have been many suggestions on how to select the movies and who should do the selection. It seems that our residents were not pleased with most of the selections. I with some friends have gone to our clubhouse theater to see a movie twice in the past six months. Both times, we were pleased with the selection. This past Sunday, we saw "Fool's Gold" featuring Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey. Both these actors are current stars. The movie was pleasant, humorous, and we came out feeling up and contented. We did not feel cheated. Now my question: Was I just lucky both times or are people just more difficult to satisfy when the cost is so small? A comment would be appreciated.

Updated Condo Assoc Documents

How important is it to have updated Condo documents? Are the basic UCO Model CV Documents available on a disc. And I mean actual text , (no OCR and fuss). Was Tennysons’ offer to package our documents replaced by any other when he terminated that. I have 1990 docs + approx 10 amendments from up to 2002.

RIG FOR HEAVY WEATHER; A MATTER OF FETCH

Hi All,
Plus or minus a bit of movement right or left; the Storm Track of TS Fay is not yet certain.

Of potential import to us here in WPB is the matter of "Fetch". If the storm hugs the coast of South Western Florida with epicenter in the Gulf, the "Fetch" refers to the quantity of open water over which the storm travels, that the storm will pull up and dump as torrential rain right here in WPB. The point being that we, being on the Eastern exposure of the Storm could get heavily dumped on!

Dave Israel

Following is the 2:00pm Bulletin:




TROPICAL STORM FAY INTERMEDIATE ADVISORY NUMBER 12A

NWS TPC/NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL AL062008

200 PM EDT MON AUG 18 2008...

CENTER OF FAY APPROACHING KEY WEST...

TROPICAL STORM CONDITIONS
SPREADING INTO THE LOWER AND MIDDLE FLORIDA KEYS...

A HURRICANE WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR THE SOUTHWESTERN COAST OF FLORIDA FROM FLAMINGO TO ANNA MARIA ISLAND.

A HURRICANE WARNING MEANS THAT HURRICANE CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED WITHIN THE WARNING AREA WITHIN THE NEXT 24 HOURS. PREPARATIONS TO PROTECT LIFE AND PROPERTY SHOULD BE RUSHED TO COMPLETION. A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT ALONG THE FLORIDA EAST COAST FROM COCOA BEACH SOUTHWARD...AND ALONG THE FLORIDA WEST COAST EAST OF FLAMINGO...INCLUDING LAKE OKEECHOBEE.

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING AND A HURRICANE WATCH ARE IN EFFECT FOR THE FLORIDA KEYS FROM OCEAN REEF TO KEY WEST...INCLUDING THE DRY TORTUGAS AND FLORIDA BAY.

A HURRICANE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR THE FLORIDA MAINLAND EAST OF FLAMINGO TO CARD SOUND BRIDGE...AND ALONG THE FLORIDA WEST COAST NORTH OF ANNA MARIA ISLAND TO TARPON SPRINGS. A TROPICAL STORM WATCH IS IN EFFECT ALONG THE FLORIDA EAST COAST NORTH OF COCOA BEACH TO FERNANDINA BEACH.
A TROPICAL STORM WATCH IS IN EFFECT FOR THE NORTHWESTERN BAHAMAS. INTERESTS ELSEWHERE IN THE FLORIDA PENINSULA AND THE EASTERN GULF OF MEXICO SHOULD MONITOR THE PROGRESS OF FAY.

FOR STORM INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO YOUR AREA...INCLUDING POSSIBLE INLAND WATCHES AND WARNINGS...PLEASE MONITOR PRODUCTS ISSUED BY YOUR LOCAL WEATHER OFFICE.

AT 200 PM EDT...1800 UTC...THE CENTER OF TROPICAL STORM FAY WAS LOCATED NEAR LATITUDE 24.3 NORTH...LONGITUDE 81.6 WEST OR ABOUT 20 MILES...30 KM...SOUTHEAST OF KEY WEST FLORIDA.FAY IS MOVING TOWARD THE NORTH-NORTHWEST NEAR 14 MPH...23 KM/HR. A TURN TOWARD THE NORTH WITH A SLOWER FORWARD SPEED IS EXPECTED LATER TODAY AND TONIGHT...WITH A GENERALLY NORTHWARD MOTION EXPECTED ON TUESDAY.

ON THE FORECAST TRACK...THE CENTER OF FAY SHOULD PASS OVER THE LOWER FLORIDA KEYS DURING THE NEXT FEW HOURS...AND BE NEAR THE SOUTHWEST COAST OF THE FLORIDA PENINSULA ON TUESDAY. MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS ARE NEAR 60 MPH...95 KM/HR...WITH HIGHER GUSTS. SOME STRENGTHENING IS FORECAST DURING THE NEXT 24 HOURS...AND FAY IS FORECAST TO BECOME A HURRICANE AS IT NEARS THE SOUTHWESTERN FLORIDA COAST ON TUESDAY.

TROPICAL STORM FORCE WINDS EXTEND OUTWARD UP TO 115 MILES...185 KM FROM THE CENTER. THE NOAA AUTOMATED STATION AT SOMBRERO KEY FLORIDA RECENTLY REPORTED 10-MINUTE AVERAGE WINDS OF 52 MPH...83 KM/HR...AND A WIND GUST OF 62 MPH...100 KM/HR...AT AN ELEVATION OF 159FEET.

KEY WEST RECENTLY REPORTED A WIND GUST OF 47 MPH...76 KM/HR.THE LATEST MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE REPORTED BY AN AIR FORCE RESERVE HURRICANE HUNTER AIRCRAFT IS 1002 MB...29.62 INCHES.

STORM TIDES OF 3 TO 5 FEET ABOVE NORMAL ARE POSSIBLE ALONG THE SOUTHWESTERN COAST OF FLORIDA NEAR THE CENTER OF FAY. TIDES OF 2 TO 4 FT ABOVE NORMAL ARE POSSIBLE IN THE FLORIDA KEYS.

FAY IS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE TOTAL RAINFALL ACCUMULATIONS OF 4 TO 8 INCHES OVER MUCH OF CUBA...WITH ISOLATED MAXIMUM AMOUNTS OF 12 INCHES. THESE RAINS COULD PRODUCE LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODS AND MUD SLIDES. HEAVY RAINS ARE EXPECTED TO SPREAD ACROSS SOUTH FLORIDA TODAY.

STORM TOTAL AMOUNTS OF 4 TO 8 INCHES...WITH MAXIMUM AMOUNTS OF 10 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE FOR THE FLORIDA KEYS AND SOUTH FLORIDA.

RAINFALL ACCUMULATIONS OF 3 TO 5 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE IN THE NORTHWESTERN BAHAMAS. ISOLATED TORNADOES ARE POSSIBLE TODAY OVER THE FLORIDA KEYS AND THE SOUTHERN FLORIDA PENINSULA. REPEATING THE 200 PM EDT POSITION...24.3 N...81.6 W.

MOVEMENT TOWARD...NORTH-NORTHWEST NEAR 14 MPH. MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...60MPH.

MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1002 MB.THE NEXT ADVISORY WILL BE ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER AT 500 PM EDT.

FORECASTER BEVEN/BROWN

CABLE COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

Hi All,
Following are the Official Minutes of the first meeting of the Cable Committee that I Chaired; attendance was good with about 20 Unit Owners and UCO Officers in attendance. There was a good exchange of views with the COMCAST POC and many questions were raised and ideas surfaced.

We look forward to such productive meetings in future.

Dave Israel

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



CABLE COMMITTEE MEETING - MINUTES - AUGUST 14, 2008

DAVE ISRAEL, Chair

ATTENDANCE - attached:

Dave welcomed all guests and introduced the members of the Cable Committee, the UCO Officers, and Christine Saxon the representative from Comcast.

Christine reported that the February 17, 2009 digital transition will not affect cable TV customers. At this time Century Village West Palm Beach does not have to do anything.

However the cable company will be moving some channels from analog to digital. In this way they will be able to provide more channels and services. A box will be required for more services such as Video-on-Demand.

Many questions and much discussion followed for which Christine will get the answers and address at the Delegate Assembly.

How many and what channels will be available at no extra cost to residents?

What about units with more than one TV? Will there be a charge of $3.40 for a box for each TV?

Need In writing from Comcast what channels will be available without a box.

Since UCO's contract (which runs to 2010) with Comcast calls for 70 channels, what reduction will be given if we receive fewer channels? Each unit is now paying $20.55.

How many units in Century Village now have a Set-Top-Box? We have a total of 7,854 apartments.

Christine was invited to address the Delegate Assembly on Friday, September 5th. She will give us other information re high speed internet, etc. (Handouts will be available in the UCO office) Christine will confirm this date.

"Recent notes on the CV Cable TV project" prepared by Dave Israel, which included the Comcast channel line up was distributed to the committee,

These minutes were taken by Mary Patrick Benton.

PURCHASER ACCESS TO RECORDS

Hi All,

I received the following query by Email; the source is redacted for privacy reasons. The information may be important to many:
--------------------------------------------------------------

"I wish to purchase a CV condo, I will be snowbirding from Toronto Canada.

I have found a condo I want but the listing agent is making me feel like I am unreasonable.

Before I put in my offer I want to know the amount of the condo's reserve fund, plus would like to see the condo's rules and regulations.

He tells me that in all the years of selling no-one has ever asked to see the rules and regulations before putting in an offer, and I find that really hard to believe.

I tried to get the names of the condo association's president from UCO investigations but they said their list was out of date and all the numbers they gave me were disconnected and I have been told that it because they are snowbirds.

So my questions to you are: is a condo's reserve fund public knowledge, and if yes, where can I find out about it and secondly how does one get a copy of a condo's rules and regulations i.e. does it have to go on file anywhere?

---------------------------------------------------------
BLOGMEISTER responds:

The Realtor is "full of prunes"!

The law is unambiguous on these issues:

Following is an extract from Florida Statutes: FS 718, the Condominium act.

REF:

http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=Ch0718/ch0718.htm


"The association shall maintain an adequate number of copies of the declaration, articles of incorporation, bylaws, and rules, and all amendments to each of the foregoing, as well as the question and answer sheet provided for in s. 718.504 and year-end financial information required in this section on the condominium property to ensure their availability to unit owners and prospective purchasers, and may charge its actual costs for preparing and furnishing these documents to those requesting the same. Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph, the following records shall not be accessible to unit owners:……"

If you wish to read the entire section; simply click on the Reference above and plug in the search term “prospective purchaser”

Furthermore, the Declaration of Condominium, the Articles of Incorporation, the Bylaws, and all legal Amendments thereto are a matter of public record, to be found as follows;

http://www.pbcountyclerk.com/oris/records_home.html

If you have a problem navigating this site let me know; simply give me the Name of the Association and I will point you directly to the records. I will also find out the name of the President of said Association, which is also a matter of public record; if you are adept at Site navigation you may find same as follows:

http://www.sunbiz.org/search.html

Click on “inquire by name” near the top of the left panel and plug in the name of the Association; each Association must file this form every year; so the information on Officers should be current.

Again please advise if you have navigation problems.

I hope this is helpful

Dave Israel

BLOG STATS

Hi All,
Following is a brief overview of BLOG Statistics since 01/01/2008:

Unique Visitors:..........3081
Total Visits:..........38,863
Total Page views:..........98,399

Total number of countries visiting:..........60
Top Ten, in order of frequency:
US, Canada, Israel, UK, Argentina, India, Australia, Germany, Spain, Hungary.

Total number of United States:..........47
Top Ten sources, in order of frequency:
FL, NY, Mobile, Mass, Cal, TX, NJ, Vermont, CT, GA.

Like Topsy; this BLOG just "Growed and Growed"!

Dave Israel

HELP FROM THE BLOG UNIVERSE

Hi All,
As I have noted in another post, we are having a problem with a jiggy Sidebar. Another very experienced BLOGGER in the BLOGGOSPHERE, named Chuck is assisting us in attempting to diagnose this problem; I am very grateful for the assistance.

He has asked for some data as follows:

"{It might help if you could take an inventory of who is seeing the problem, what Internet service do they have, and what browser and operating system is involved. Right now, I'm shooting in the dark, and probably against a moving target. And I may have blanks in my gun too. }"

So, what is being requested of all BLOGGERs observing the Jiggy phenomenon is as follows:

1) Your BLOG name

2) Your ISP (EG: MSN, COMCAST, BELLSOUTH...)

3) Your Operating System ( EG: XP, VISTA, Windows ME, Windows 2000...)

4) Your Browser ( INTERNET Explorer, Firefox, Netscape....)

Help make our BLOG well.

Thanks,

Dave Israel

Storm Prep Tips from FPL

Before the Storm

• Develop an emergency plan including evacuation routes and special medical needs.
• Update your FPL account phone number at www.FPL.com. This will expedite the response time to your phone call in the event of an outage.
• Turn off and unplug a TV set before lowering a TV antenna or satellite dish. Avoid power lines.
• Turn off and unplug any non-essential electrical equipment.
• To keep food fresh in the event of a power outage, turn refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings ahead of time.
• In the event of a power outage, make sure you have a battery-operated radio, multiple flashlights, and a battery-operated fan along with extra batteries.
• Put important documents in a waterproof container.

During the Storm

• If your electricity goes off:
• Freezer foods can last up to three days. They're safe to eat if they still have ice crystals at the center.
• Post a list of contents on your freezer to minimum the times you open it.

After the Storm

• Please be patient. Listen to your local radio news on a battery-powered radio for regular updates from FPL. Assume that FPL is aware of mass outages. However, if your neighbors have power and you don't, have your account number and call 1-800-4OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243).
• For your safety, please stay away from fallen wire flooded areas and debris.
• Please be careful to follow safe operating procedure for generators. Never run them inside your home.
• Visually inspect the area around your electricity meter (outside). If you detect or suspect any damage call an electrician.

Very Funny Ads

Click on title, we have had all kinds of videos but not ads.
Drink Water should come up first - The good ones always get away!

Termite Season

Does anyone have recommended reasonable price coverage for drywood termites other than Hulett and Orkin? I would like to know what you pay for how many units. Does your contract include subterranean termites? Please send to elbr@comcast.net if you do not wish to go public. TIA

Best Hospitals- Just a little info.

Click link

FL. does not score very well.
Mike

REMOVAL OF GOOGLE GADGETS

Hi All,
Since we added two google gadgets; "Watch Shows Online" and "The Wonderful World of Weird",

A strange Jiggy Bug has plagued the Sidebar.

Until GOOGLE/BLOGGER corrects this problem; we have removed both gadgets.

We have replaced "The Wonderful World of Weird" with a URL link.

Check out the site, it is quite bizzar.

Dave Israel

Storm Track Map PB Post

Click on title. I will put this link on the Members Favorite Links on left sidebar. It should constantly update the storm map. Fay looks as if she doesn’t like water, the track goes over every possible bit of land.
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/storm/content/storm/homepage/index.html

INSPECTION REQUIREMENT

Hi All,
I received the following query by Email:
----------------------------------------
Would you comment on your blog on the new 5 yr inspection requirements, good, bad, opt out, penalties, board liabilities, etc.????

Am I right in interpreting that the inspection is only a guide for associations to budget their reserves?

What are 3 & 4 story buildings in CV doing? Rumors of UCO coordinated inspections????
----------------------------------------
Following is a brief response and a bit of my opinion.


On May 1, 2008, Florida Governor Crist signed House Bill 995.



House Bill 995, which takes effect on October 1, 2008, amends various provisions of Chapter 718 of the Florida Statutes, the Florida Condominium Act.



The following is a brief summary of amendments, relevant to your query, included in House Bill 995:


REF:
http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?FileName=_h0995er.xml&DocumentType=Bill&BillNumber=0995&Session=2008


The 4 digit numbers are line numbers in the referenced document.

(6) As to any condominium building greater than three
1563 stories in height, at least every 5 years, and within 5 years if

1564 not available for inspection on October 1, 2008, the board shall

1565 have the condominium building inspected to provide a report

1566 under seal of an architect or engineer authorized to practice in

1567 this state attesting to required maintenance, useful life, and

1568 replacement costs of the common elements. However, if approved

1569 by a majority of the voting interests present at a properly

1570 called meeting of the association, an association may waive this

1571 requirement. Such meeting and approval must occur prior to the

1572 end of the 5-year period and is effective only for that 5-year
1573 period.
----------------------------------------------


718.113 (Maintenance; limitation upon improvement; display of flag; hurricane shutters):


New Subsection (6): Requires an inspection of condominium buildings greater than 3 stories in height every 5 years by an engineer or architect unless waived by a majority of the voting interests present at a duly noticed meeting. The engineer or architect must provide a report attesting to required maintenance, useful life and replacement costs of the common elements. The report must be maintained as an official record of the association under amended 718.111(12).
-------------------------------------
OK! Now as to your questions:


Good? To the extent that hard information is “good” of course this is a good piece of legislation?
------------------------
Bad? The only thing that could be considered “bad” is the expense; of course, consider the expense of not knowing what hidden problems may exist in your 30 year old + building.
------------------------
opt out? Sure, the law gives you an out:

“by a majority of the voting interests present at a properly
called meeting of the association, an association may waive this requirement”.
------------------------
Penalties? Not directly; but please read the next bullet.
------------------------
board liabilities? If you fail to conduct this inspection; and an event occurs of great damage or loss of life; what possible liabilities may ensue as regards failure of Insurance coverage to be granted or direct legal liability to the Association for failure to follow the law.


If you do conduct this Inspection and the resulting record of insufficiencies is ignored and not repaired; the liabilities are rather obvious.
------------------------
Clearly, this is merely my opinion and competent Legal Counsel should be sought.
------------------------
While this Law only requires the Inspection for buildings over three stories high; I would recommend it for any building in CV, due to the age of our infrastructure.
------------------------
Ask yourselves, what is the condition of the REBAR embedded in your Catwalks, Patios and rails? Ask, what is the condition of the Aluminum wiring in your Units and the cast iron sewer pipes; in my building, every backup revealed roots in the sewer pipes? Then after due consideration; you decide.
-----------------------
Finally it should be noted that this Inspection can be used as a primary driver for the establishment of your Reserves for the requisite 5 year cycle of the Inspection law.

Think smart; not cheap!!!

Dave Israel

SELECTION OF MOVIES

After walking out of several showings, this summer, including tonight's
feature, should like to know who is responsible for the selections...
Is it in the hands of the individual who as well selects our live enter-
tainment? Thank you for your input..

NEW FEATURE ON THE BLOG

Hi All,
We have added yet another unique feature, it is called:

This Disturbing World Wide Weird

It will contain the curious, bizzar and strange!

Look for it in the Sidebar.

Let us know what you think about this addition.

Dave Israel

Keeping Minutes

You may now go to UCO and request copies of any of their minutes (new openness) give them plenty time for write up.

From FL Ombudsman Raphan FAQs: "Q. How much detail is required when writing the minutes of association meetings? Should the minutes be verbatim or a summary of each statement? A. Robert's Rules of Order states the minutes should record what was "done" at the meeting, not what was "said" by the members. In other words, the minutes should not be a narrative, but they should reflect the business that was conducted. People do not understand what minutes mean. People will stand up at a meeting and say, "I think the [board] **** is an idiot." That doesn't belong in the minutes.”

COMMITTEE: A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours.

Cable Meeting

Good meeting Dave.

Huey Lewis-Heart of rock and Roll

Click link,
This is the last one, I gotta go to bed.
Enjoy , Mike

White Wedding - Billy Idol

click link

The guy is nuts but this is one of my favorite rock songs.
I can't sleep,

Enjoy , Mike

Another Carly Simon

Click link

She wrote this about her parents.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING

Hi All,
The following important post is copied from the CV Q & A:
--------------------------
Author: Ken Davis (---.sip.bct.bellsouth.net)Date:

08-13-08 11:23

The Advisory Committee Meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 19th at 10:00 AM in the Clubhouse Music Room.

Agenda: Waive reading and approval of previous minutes(September 2006)

Discussion of UCO Bylaws

Dave Israel

Open Meetings

There will be an Advisory Committee Meeting on Tuesday, August 19th, AT 10:00am, to be held in the Clubhouse Music Room
Agenda
Wave the reading and approval of previous meeting (September 14, 2006)
Discussion of UCO Bylaws

Companion to New TV Feature

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR HOUSE
1. Open a new file on your computer.
2. Name it 'Housework.'
3. Send it to the RECYCLE BIN.
4. Empty the RECYCLE BIN.
5. Your computer will ask you, 'Are you sure you want to delete Housework permanently ?'
6. Calmly answer, 'Yes,' and press mouse button firmly..
7. Feel better?
Works for me!

NEW BLOG FEATURE

Hi All,
We have added a new feature called "Watch Shows Online".

This feature may be accessed in the Sidebar and connects you to hundreds of current and past Network TV programs with limited commercials.

Simply click on the desired Network feed, download the Video Player and enjoy the shows of your choice.

Comments on this latest GOOGLE Gadget will be appreciated.

Dave Israel

MULTIPLE TV HOUSHOLDS and the CABLECARD

Cablecard; a possible solution to the multiple TV household.

A Cablecard is A digital cable TV authorization and decoding system that uses a Type II PC Card module. Introduced in 2003 and mandated for HDTV sets by the FCC, it is plugged into "Digital Cable Ready" TV sets.

Replacing the set-top box, the CableCARD contains the subscriber's identity and decryption algorithms used by the cable provider. DVRs and digital media servers may include CableCARD slots, and CableCARDs can also plug into a PC for viewing.

The Single Stream CableCARD (S-CARD) supports one data stream in one direction. Multi-Stream CableCARD (M-CARD) enables bi-directional transmission for video-on-demand and for recording one channel, while viewing another.

REF: http://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia_term/0,2542,t=CableCARD&i=56369,00.asp

There is no charge for the first CableCARD that you use as it is already included in the primary outlet fee. If you have a multi-card device on the same outlet (i.e. TiVo Series 3 or two Digital Cable Tuners connected to the same personal computer), you will be charged an additional regulated fee of up to $2.05 for the second CableCARD.

If additional CableCARDs are needed for other devices that are installed on additional outlets, you will not be charged for the first CableCARD installed on this outlet as the cost is included in the additional outlet fee.

In addition to the cost of the digital cable service, you will be charged a regulated fee of up to $2.05 for the second CableCARD on the additional outlet in addition to the cost of the digital cable service.

Note: The same pricing schedule will be applicable to additional outlets with multi-CableCARD devices, e.g. no charge for first CableCARD on the third outlet and an additional regulated fee of up to $2.05 for the second CableCARD in addition to the digital service charge.

REF: http://www.comcast.com/customers/faq/FaqDetails.ashx?Id=2651

Clearly this is an option to be discussed at the Thursday meeting.
Perhaps we can negotiate the nominal charge away.

Dave Israel

Macaroni Grill

If you haven’t been to the Macaroni Grill on 441 in front of the Wellington Mall, give it a try. The prices are very reasonable and the atmosphere is festive. I had eggplant parmesan that was terrific for $10.79. It comes with a side of pasta of your choice. They put a loaf of wonderful rosemary bread on the table and pour some tasty olive oil in a dish for dunking of the bread. To add a salad is an extra $1.99, choice of caesar or mixed. The caesar was very nice. Terrific place, very clean, wonderful Italian music (the classics) playing in the background. I like it a lot. And by the way Flynn, the parmesan is brought to the table by the waiter/waitress. They grate it on your plate to your specifications. So you won’t find any “moldy parmesan” hanging around. Give it a try if you are up for a ride. I am pretty sure you will like it. It could be a good choice for the next blog party.
Ciao for now!
chris

Military Humor

http://www.tom-phillips.info/images/funny.military.htm

It cannot all be photoshop! click title or ^^
If you don't have a typical military sense of humor, do not look.

CV CABLE TV PART 2 THE SET-TOP-BOX (STB)

Hi All,
There has been some discussion and interest in the Set-Top-Box, STB; what exactly is it?

The STB is a combination of two major components; it contains a receiver/tuner, and in this regard it is essentially a radio which operates in the TV frequency spectrum.

Scientific Atlanta/Cisco is the primary provider for these STB's

The second major component is a communications card which allows the STB to communicate with the COMCAST local office, in particular what is called "The Head End"; this is where the COMCAST TV signal block of channels is multiplexed and transmitted to the subscribers.

The head end also houses large server farms, these are simply computer storage facilities, not unlike the hard drive of your computer, if you have one, but much greater in capacity.

These server farms contain Content; primarily movies which COMCAST offers as Pay-Per-View product and also Video-On-Demand (VOD)

VOD allows the subscriber to order content with your remote control at any time of the day or night; thus if you desire to view a certain movie at a certain time, you may do so. There are hundreds of movies available at any given time.

This STB is the device which COMCAST will offer to us at a cost of $3.40 per month, so we will all hear more about it in future.

Dave Israel

CV CABLE SERVICE

Hi All,
There will be a meeting with Christine Saxon, our POC at COMCAST Cable.
This will be the first meet and greet for your new Cable Chair and this meeting will be informational in nature.

It turns out that the figure of 29 channels in the analogue tier is inaccurate; the number of channels which will be available in the analogue tier is yet to be determined. Christine will address this and other Cable issues at the meeting.

The complex issues of digital transition and Cable Channel realignment is one of shifting sands.
I will make every effort to obtain accurate information in future and keep you all "in the loop".

Please attend the meeting and bring questions as there will be a time for Q & A with Christine.

Event: Meeting with COMCAST Rep.
Date: 14 August, 2008
Day: Thursday
Time: 10:00am
Place: Classroom B in the Clubhouse

Yes, this is a limited capacity venue; but in future Christine has agreed to brief the Delegate Assembly of all matters COMCAST and Digital Transition.

Dave Israel

REMOVAL OF NEGATIVE POSTS FROM THE BLOG

Hi All,
The Poll on this issue has closed and the vote is as follows:


For Removal of Negative posts: 15 (44%)

Against Removal of Negative posts: 20 (57%)

Hence the record shall remain as it is; unmodified.

This vote, while decisive, was not what one might consider a landslide, it suggests that there is a strong component of the Electorate that favors a toning down of the rhetoric and invective that has marked the BLOG from time to time.

I agree, that the time has come for those opposed to an issue to act as a "loyal Opposition".

This is easily accomplished by framing criticism in a constructive and respectful way.

The goal, of course, is to act for the benefit of the Village; all voices need to be heard, this is best accomplished by dialing down the noise level.

Dave Israel

Voting Machines

Learn how to use the new voting machines at a hands on demonstration

Thursday, August 14th

From 10:00 AM til Noon

Clubhouse Party Room

Everyone is invited

CV Sunset

8/10/08 CV Sunset, click to enlarge.

If you really want to get sick.

Click Link

IS THE BLOG GOING AWAY ?

From what I read on the forum it appears with a degree of certainty that the blog is going to be eliminated in the near future. Should that be the case, I once again say thank you to David Israel for starting it in the first place. Over a rather short period of time it has proven that when truthful information is given to the public, the people respond in kind.

Change is not easy; oftentimes it is easier to return to the familiar, where we anticipate that it will be different, but it never is.

WE SUGGEST YOU LET US WIN

Hi All,

In case you missed this Video from the sidebar; give it a look and pay attention to the captions.

It makes me want to cry:

http://felixdhimmi.wordpress.com/2008/08/05/we-sugest-you-let-us-win/

Dave Israel

W.P.R.F. Letter to Associations.

This letter arrived Friday, August 8, 2008. I have placed this on the BLOG for all to see, whether permanent or seasonal residents. All watercraft Owners should be noticed that their opportunity has only a six-week window to resolve this issue. Please make everyone aware!!

Ed

W.P .R.F., Inc.
200 CENTURY BOULEVARD WEST PALM BEACH,

FL 33417-2247 (561) 640-3111 Ext. 4
FAX: (561) 640-0075
August 8, 2008

All Condominium Associations

Re: Boats and Watercraft

Over the last several months, an issue has arisen regarding the storage of sailboats and other types of watercraft on the lakes and on the shoreline around the lakes within the West Palm Beach Century Village®. As many of you know, UCO is in the process of initiating a shoreline restoration project throughout the entire village. In furtherance of that project and to clarify W.P.R.F., Inc.'s position regarding this matter, I have been requested by the UCO Operations Committee to advise the Century Village® condominium boards of directors and residents that all privately owned sailboats and other watercraft must be removed from the lakes and the shoreline around the lakes within six (6) weeks of the date of this letter. The purpose of this letter is to give sufficient advance notice to allow all boat and watercraft owners to make other arrangements for the storage and use of their watercraft outside of the West Palm Beach Century Village®. The onIy boats and/or watercraft that will be allowed to be used within Century Village® will be those that are owned by W.P.R.F., Inc. and located in the appropriate sailboat area outside of the main Century Village® Clubhouse.

The presence of privately owned boats and other watercraft will present a very serious hazard to life and property if a hurricane, tornado or other natural disaster should strike our community. Therefore, it is imperative that the removal of all boats and watercraft be permanent. There will be no exceptions.

Please keep in mind that the prohibition of boats and other watercraft is contained in the original condominium documents as well as in the 1999 model documents that were adopted by many of the associations within Century Village®. Additionally, the cost of maintenance and repairs to the interior lakes and canals was made a part of the operational rent under the Millennium UCO Amendment to the Long Term Lease and the Operating Agreement attached thereto.

Anyone failing to remove their sailboat and/or other watercraft from any lake and/or shoreline within the West Palm Beach Century Village® before September 19, 2008 shall have their watercraft removed by W.P.R.F., Inc. and stored off site. The cost of removal and storage will then be added to the owner's W.P.R.F., Inc. account. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation in this regard.
Sincerely,
W.P.R.F., !NC.
(signed by ) Anita J Cruz
By: Anita Cruz, as Vice President

WATER FOUNTAINS

Hi Mark,

The following is extracted from the CV Q & A:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Author: Marc Velonis (---.234.42.94.Dial1.Miami1.Level3.net)

Date: 08-08-08 23:05

Does any (one) know if the water fountains in the lake are ever going to work again? They were very nice. I remember there was talk about it a few years ago, but nothing was ever done.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is a somewhat complicated issue; when the fountains were originally installed the electricity to run them came from the Admin./Medical center building, which then was the property of W.P.R.F., Inc.

When Brad Estra purchased the building he did not realize that he was paying for the power to run the fountains for a long time.

When he found out, to make a long story short, instead of simply having FPL cut off the meter and the power, he destroyed the wires.

Now there is a controversy as to how to proceed; a number of possibilities occur;

1) Reroute the wires to the Clubhouse.

2) have the wires reconnected to a single meter in the Medical building and simply agree to pay the bill on that meter.

3) construct a small solar power panel along the shoreline for each fountain and let the sun power the fountains which in due course would amortize out the original costs.

I believe this issue is on UCO's plate and will be resolved in due course.

Dave Israel

Paving “Reserve” Fund

I have often written of the above fund and concerns that I had in the long haul. I have now a different view, after a considerable conversation with LCAM Pat Blunck. We reviewed records showing the last repaving event occurred in the Village in 1998 with the final billing occurring in 1999. That amount was approximately $ 1,000,000.00. We reviewed how the original $ 4,050,000.00 was developed and why it was unnecessary to include cost of living increases for the past few years as that number was approximately a four (4) fold increase over the last paving expenses.

We further discussed that now there is a growing need for a proposal by an engineering firm to estimate the details of how we would scrape and resurface within the next few years, especially since we now are experiencing the 10th anniversary of that repaving project. This would give us a specific project proposal for the bidding process to begin in a timely fashion, with the special attention given to the drainage, and height disadvantages from the last resurfacing.

From this experience, I must admit the Paving concerns and “Reserve” considerations seem to be well in hand and I commend the Team for staying on top if this very important issue.


Ed Black

PRELIMINARY THOUGHTS ON CV CABLE SERVICE

Hi All,
Every Unit owner must be alert and listen carefully;

1) Larry Kall did not say that COMCAST would provide channels 2 - 29; he said that they would provide 29 channels. We have yet to hear what those channels are.

2) The 29 channels will probably be COMCAST's version of "Basic Cable". They must, by law, include the local broadcast channels, the rest will be up to COMCAST, but we can probably negotiate the mix to a point.

3) As noted in Jules, post, some folks will be happy with the 29 channels, so a set top box in every Unit is probably a non-starter.

4) The standard cost for Basic Cable ranges from $7.00 - $10.00 per month; adding in the Set-Top-Box offer of $3.40/month puts us roughly in the ballpark of what we pay now, so don't say ouch before you are bitten.

5) Today Rob Siebeneck presented a briefing at the Computer Club. I am advised that it was a very aggressive sales pitch and I must warn everyone to be very careful.

a) Rob Seibeneck is NOT our point of contact for negotiation of an ammended or new Cable Contract.

b) There is no shortage of Cable Boxes, there is no need to do anything within the next 3 days, there is no rush.

c) Do not be pushed into expensive bundles of Cable TV, High speed INTERNET and digital telephony. Digital telephony (with Video) for example may be obtained free for Computer to Computer digital calls anywhere on Earth, by simply downloading a program called SKYPE. SKYPE also supports interface with landline telephony for 2.8 cents/min. Examine all the options.

So, please go slowly; I will be meeting with the Official COMCAST POC next week and we will get answers to all of the questions and issues noted above.

Of course, this meeting will be an open meeting and will be noticed in advance.

Dave Israel

Financial Crisis in America - Warren Buffet

Click on header

Thought this might be of interest to some people .
Mike

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Hi All,
As you may have noted in another Post, I have been appointed to Chair the Cable Committee.

Currently this is a Committee of one and I would like to change that; I would like to expand the Committee to at least 5.

This BLOG is a call to anyone who has worked in the TV/Cable industry and would thus have specific knowledge of the marketing and Technical components of Cable operations.

Please send me an Email at nsasigint@comcast.net if you would like to volunteer.

Thanks,

Dave Israel

Ok, last one...

One more picture of beautiful Niagara Falls from the American side. It's truly magnificent! July 2008

One more, printed larger

Niagara Falls, American side view, July 29, 2008

Beautiful Niagara Falls

This is a test. This is our beautiful Niagara Falls on the American side, July 29, 2008. Enjoy!

NEWLY ELECTED UCO OFFICERS SWORN IN

Hi All,
Seen above, the newly elected Officers of UCO are seen being sworn in.

From left the right:

President: George Loewenstein, Presiding VP: Sal Bummolo, VP: Jerry Karpf and VP: Ken Davis.

We all wish the best of fortune to the reconstituted Officers Group in healing the Divisions in our Village and in getting us all working on the same team with a common purpose.

President Loewenstein also announced the appointment of Ed Black to serve on the Channel 63 Committee, the Committee is Chaired by VP: Ken Davis; we look forward to many improvements in this key Community Information Channel.


Dave Israel

OFFICERS OF UCO GATHER FOR SWEARING IN OF NEWLY ELECTED OFFICERS

Hi All,
Today, August 07, 2008 the Officers of UCO gathered for the Swearing in ceremony of the newly elected Officers; from left to right above:

VP elect: Ken Davis, VP: Frank Cornish, VP elect : Jerry Karpf, Treasurer: Dorothy Tetro, Corr. Secty: Avis Blank, Rec. Secty: Betty Lapidus, President elect: George Loewenstein, Executive Secty: Mary Patrick Benton, and at the podium VP: Sal Bummolo.

As an aside I am pleased to announce that yours truly, the BLOGmeister was offered the position of Cable Committee Chair by President Loewenstein, and I have accepted; Larry Kall , God rest his soul, will be hard to replace; but I shall do my best for all of the Unit Owners of Century Village.

Dave Israel

NozzleRage: Attack of the Pump

Mike go get your bike - Reminder as requested.

Geography, Beauty, and Satellite

Click on title above, or paste
http://www.greatdanepro.com/Blue%20Bueaty/index.htm

Settle in with cuppa, look at those electric lights, second half - amazing space technology for Dave.
Geography was never like this.

Preparation Olympics

Leap, flip, bend, flex!