I Saw on the side bar a question asking if I was a delegate. I checked off yes, then clicked on view. But it said error. Can't imagine why. I sign on am able to comment and start new posts and create my own colors as you can see. But side bar does not seem to work for me.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Side Bar Delegate Assembly
BLOG USAGE STATISTICS
Hi All,
Our BLOG has been live for one month. It occurs to me that our readers might be interested in some of the basic statistics of usage. Following is a quick look at BLOG usage:
1,480 Visits
172 Absolute Unique Visitors
3,919 Pageviews
2.65 Average Pageviews
00:05:22 Time on Site
48.92% Bounce Rate
11.62% New Visits
In short, to date, 172 people have read the BLOG, they have visited 1480 times and viewed 3919 pages. In any given 24 hour reporting cycle close to 12% of visitors are new visitors, a very significant rate of growth.
We have had visits from Taiwan, Argentina, Israel, Canada and of course The United States of America.
Keep spreading the word and make this BLOG a powerful unrestricted channel of truthful, complete and useful wide ranging Information.
Welcome all!
Dave
VOTING DELEGATE POLL
We have opened a poll in the sidebar asking if our readers are Delegates in the Delegate Assembly.
Why you may ask;
On Friday, the list of Candidates for UCO Office will be announced at the Delegate Assembly. Candidates may be nominated from the floor, and if supported by 10 seconds will be added to the list of Candidates.
These Candidates will need various channels in which to publicise their qualifications in addition to the UCO Reporter.
We are considering encouraging the Candidates to use this BLOG to air their views and to answer questions that may arise, a format not supported by the UCO Reporter.
Clearly if there is a high percentage of BLOGGERS who are Voting Delegates, this would create an atmosphere conducive to such exchanges. So, please let us know if you are a voting Delegate by voting in our Poll.
Dave
MEDICS AMBULANCE SERVICE
The following is taken from the CV Q & A. While it clearly exceeds the current Guidelines of that forum; (Tile person, Plumber, High School Reunion.....!) it is, nonetheless important and it should be Posted where it has a high probablity of being read; please read and take notice:
Dave
Author: Jules Sitnick (---.mia-01.cvx.algx.net)Date: 01-30-08 19:36Today
I had occasion to use the new Medics Ambulance service. The driver said many things that left me wondering about the company. He said that the use of wheelchairs in the van would only accommodate slim wheelchairs. There was no seat in the van in case the patient had a spouse and an aid accompanying...only one seat next to driver. Also the people answering the phones to take the information for pick up, etc., do not speak English very well and so they took down the information given incorrectly causing the driver to be 1/2 hour late in picking me up. Luckily I asked to be picked up an hour before my hospital appointment or I would have been late. This company seems to be having problems, according to the driver, so when planning to use them, be sure to give them adequate driving/finding time before your appointment. Let us hope that this company improves their performance.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Following is a message from the General Manager of MEDICS Ambulance Service:
HI
Thanks for allowing me to post in your forum. Medics has been in business for almost 30 years.
In 2007 we transported approximately 50,000 patients throughout the Tri County Area.
We have a fleet of over 62 vehicles. Our "Call Center" is staffed with over 10 Full Time Employees. Several are "bi-lingual", and the remaining speak english.
We pride ourselves in having satisfied customers with every transport. However, if for any reason you have a problem with our service please feel free to email me directly at:
ACohen@medicsambulance.com
and I will personally look into whatever issue you had.
I also encourage and invite any resident(s) of Century Village to set up a visit to our Corporate office in Deerfield Beach to "come look around."
We also have an office off Forrest Hill Blvd., and we station an EMS Vehicle 24 / 7 at The Classic ALF, right across the street from Century Village.
For more information about Medics please visit our website at:
www.medicsambulance.com
or email me.
Thanks Again-
Andrew Cohen
General Manager
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Dell Support Upgrade
Hi everyone, I have a question about my computer that I thought maybe someone could answer. My computer is a Dell and it is no longer under warranty. It is over 3 years old. A box keeps coming up telling me that I need to update to Dell Support System 2.0. It says that the version I have is being discontinued. I hesitate to upgrade because I tried this about a month ago and after upgrading it, my computer seemed to go bonkers. I couldn't get on line, I couldn't get my emails and it seemed like nothing was working. So I went to Start/Restore (or something like that) - and restored my computer back to a previous date and then it was ok.
Well now -it has started again trying to get me to download this new Dell Support System. If I don't want it, then I should go to Start/Setting/Control Panel/Add or Remove Programs.
My question is - what would the harm be in removing the Dell Support system from my computer? The warranty is no longer in effect so I don't know what good it is doing me and I am afraid to download this new system because my computer might get all messed up again.
Any advice?
thanks, Chris
SMALL MIRACLE
(See previous coconut rant)
The cutting of coconuts has mostly stopped, frond trimming continues. The nuts that were cut are left on the ground for residents if they wish. Those still in the trees (west drive) are on hold. Jarriel Landscaping told me that it will be investigated if any soup kitchen would be interested in using the young coconut juice. It also gives us more time to enjoy the juice. Eventually any nuts not used or needed will be cut and cleared away.
WOW! ‘A’ for effort no matter how it works out. Thank you to whomever for their thoughtfulness.
UCO informed me that if I wanted coconuts I should plant my own trees. So much for common areas.
There is a representative of The Lord’s Place/Café Joshua living in CV, she said that while their chef could not use the coconuts, they welcome all other donations. Please think of them.
Responsibility
Responses to entries on the BLOG may be mixed. Especially when the information being placed before the “people” is sometimes troubling. It is not easy to write about issues that concern the entire Village, even more so when the “facts” or “truths” hurt!
Unfortunately, “those who can” must step up to the plate even when they would rather remain silent and avoid the “personal bashing” that occurs as a result of the efforts to INFORM! It would be simpler to “stick their head into the sand like so many, who choose not to concern themselves with the extraordinary challenges facing our village.
We have lost many who have walked away from their own Association, simply because the conflict “isn’t worth the fight”. We have voters who chose to not exercise their constitutional rights to VOTE.
So what are we to do? Speak out when issues require it. Stand up for those less able to withstand the rigors of criticism and speak out for the good of ALL?
Please remember. The effort is to inform, instigate discussion among the many, seek opinions not yet heard from, because this has, over history, enabled good intellect to participate in the development of GOOD suggestions and recommendations that may be worthy of such effort. Please do not shoot the messenger!
Ed Black
Foreclosure
A unit owner in our building passed away about a year ago, the estate has refused to pay the fees for the unit. We the Board of Directors have put a lien on the unit. There are two mortgages on the condo that exceed the market value of the unit.
Would anyone out there have any suggestions on the best way for the Board to proceed?Should we wait for the bank to foreclose (which may take a very long time) or should we foreclose?
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
USEFUL LINKS
Hi All,
Elaine has compiled a list of useful research links.
These may be found in the Side Bar under the heading;
USEFUL LINKS.
Many important issues may be researched at the sites represented.
Thanks Elaine.
Dave
WARNING FOR THE GUYS
9 WORDS WOMEN USE
(1)Fine:This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.
(2)Five Minutes:If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.
(3)Nothing:This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine.
(4)Go Ahead:This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!
(5)Loud Sigh:This is actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to # 3 for the meaning of nothing.)
(6)That's Okay:This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.
(7)Thanks:A woman is thanking you, do not question, or Faint. Just say you're welcome. (I want to add in a clause here - This is true, unless she says "Thanks a lot" - that is PURE sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. DO NOT say "you're welcome" ... that will bring on a "whatever").
(8)Whatever:Is a women's way of sayingF*cKYOU!
(9)Don't worry about it, I got it:Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking "What's wrong?" For the woman's response refer to # 3.
ELECTION RESULTS
Hi All,
Follow the election results Online:
http://www.cnn.com/POLITICS/
Or click on the Title of this Post.
Dave
WHY THIS BLOG???---LEST, WE FORGET
FASCISM
Removal Of Postings
Author: carole (---.hsd1.fl.comcast.net)
Date: 12-08-07 09:52
Questions that are not appropriate for this forum will be removed.
If you have questions about UCO, Seacrest, WPRF, etc. you need to direct your questions directly to them. You will not receive correct information on this forum, as residents do not always know the answers to these type questions, and UCO, management companies, WPRF and like organizations, have no obligation to read or respond here. Therefore, you will only receive someone's opinion, rather than the facts. When asking such questions, it's important that you receive factual answers to your questions. As a result, those type questions and statements are not allowed here.
Type of appropriate questions are:
Can someone recommend a good plumber, electrician, tile person?
Is there a place in the village that I can advertise something I want to sell?
Does Century Village have pet friendly associations?
Can anyone suggest an establishment in the area that might be a good place to hold a high school reunion?
Sorry folks, but we must hold the forum to what it was intended for. It is a place where one resident can ask a question and receive an answer from another resident, and it is a place for information sharing, such as postings about dangers lurking in our lake.
FREEBIE COCONUTS
The one thing that WAS really nice here was to go out and pick one coconut a day and drink the juice. It is awesomely healthy, see nutrition online. “A coconut a day keeps the urologist away” tropical people know that. Lots of people know and were enjoying our crop. Today UCO is paying to have food destroyed. Hurry out if you want to pick up a few unbroken coconuts, now dirty on the ground.
If they want to cut high nuts okay, but they are cutting all WRONG AND STUPID.
They are cutting green fronds that feed the palm WRONG AND STUPID.
They have mulched up to the palms, which causes fungus and destruction of the trees WRONG AND STUPID. There are Master Gardeners on the Beautification Cmte. Who know better.
Excuse me I snapped
FRAU CAROLE SPEAKS
Author: carole (---.hsd1.fl.comcast.net)
Date: 01-28-08 22:18
James, you have every right to ask a question here. Someone, who has no right to do so, has decided to act as a member of the forum committee, and is directing questions to another forum.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
FLAGPOLES AND PAVING STONES
The following question is extracted from the CV Q & A. It is being answered here, because it clearly exceeds the current; “Tile person, Plumber, High School reunion” guidelines of that Forum.
Can anyone tell me what the regulations are for a flag pole in the village? I mean either a pole in the ground or attached to the building. Also is there any regulations on putting paving stone down in the common area of the building?
ThanksHi James,
The Condominium Act speaks directly to the issue of displaying the Flag; it cuts thru ANY Association Declaration or Byelaw on the issue:
FS 718 .113 (4)
(4) Any unit owner may display one portable, removable United States flag in a respectful way and, on Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day, may display in a respectful way portable, removable official flags, not larger than 41/2 feet by 6 feet, that represent the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, regardless of any declaration rules or requirements dealing with flags or decorations.
Bolding is mine.
On the matters of Paving stones and permanent in ground or building attached Flagpoles, things become a bit more complex; Both of these projects are defined as modification to the Common Element
FS 718.113 (2)(a)
(2)(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, there shall be no material alteration or substantial additions to the common elements or to real property which is association property, except in a manner provided in the declaration as originally recorded or as amended under the procedures provided therein. If the declaration as originally recorded or as amended under the procedures provided therein does not specify the procedure for approval of material alterations or substantial additions, 75 percent of the total voting interests of the association must approve the alterations or additions.
On the matter of Flagpoles; once there is Association approval for said Ground based or Building based Pole, the following Planning Zoning and building Code applies:
REF. http://www.pbcgov.com/pzb/uldc/articles/Article8.pdf
Table 8.G.3.C-12 - Flag and Flagpole Standards
Flags
Maximum Number 3 flags per parcel
Maximum Ratio of Length to Height 2 to 1
Freestanding Flagpoles
Maximum Flagpole Height 50 feet
Maximum Flag Height 30 percent of total flagpole height.
Minimum Setback 110% of pole height.
Wall Mounted or Suspended Flagpoles
Maximum Height 15 feet above the highest point of the building or structure
Maximum Flag Size 6 feet by 10 feet
[Ord. 2005 – 002]
I hope that all of this is helpful
Dave
VIDEO CHANNEL LINK
Hi All,
The Poll on the Video Bar Feature has closed.
11 people voted; 8 in favor and 3 opposed. Hence, we shall give it a try. See Side Bar.
Ideas for subjects of the Video channel would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Dave
“give prior notice”
The UCO By-laws clearly encourage us to operate in a manner consistent with Florida Sunshine laws.
That means anyone may attend any meetings of UCO and be permitted to observe, and as time may permit, ask questions if recognized by the chair.
Meetings should be N O T I C E D clearly on the Community information station, channel 63 – as the main purpose of this station, not as an afterthought as is currently apparent.
Should the Community Information Station be used for UCO meetings, Delegate Assemblies and Town Meetings as the primary point of notice, rather that a brief note during the 45 minutes of OTHER information displayed, then
P R O P E R N O T I C E would have been achieved. Notice of meetings should be placed upon bulletin Boards of All Condominiums unless channel 63 displays a meeting for a minimum of 15 days.
Why does the station require that we “give prior notice”, before we may attend a meeting? To whom are we required to “give prior notice” before we may attend? If we stare at the station, does the answer “just come to us”? To “give prior notice “ of our intent to attend a meeting, is 1 day in advance a proper response? So on Sunday, should we decide to attend a meeting on Monday – “who ya gonna call – Ghostbusters”
Don’t the Officers of UCO, hand out the agenda for Executive Board meetings as you walk in to attend the meeting? Why then aren’t we able to do the same, attend on the spur of the moment, without the requirement to “give prior notice”?
Of course attendance would, of necessity, be dependant on availability of seating, and when capacity was reached UCO should plan for larger rooms for future meetings to properly accommodate the growing attendees.
That's my view - What is yours? UCO needs to know.
Ed Black
Saturday, January 26, 2008
TRIAL COMMENTS
This entry is my first, thanks to Dave Israel. My name, Sherm Rosen, is known by most who were disturbed by the outrageous actions of Wprf/Levy , especially as we got little info. So, after much study, as I am an attorney well-versed in related matters, and examining the Lease, I realized that we were being misled. I let my feelings be published in a blue flyer posted on all Association boards, got numerous calls, told owners don't pay more than 70% until you recover all the excess rent you paid, and found a strong law firm to file a class action. UCO, using two names of owners, one misspelled and both not qualified as they had other owners, since they were only life owners, filed a different action in State Court, then had it consolidated(whatever) in the Federal Court which called for a jury trial after the "arbitration". When the Federal Court judge had a hearing, and the issue of the arbitration and a later jury trial were raised, he made a broad ruling that "stayed" the first case and opened up the arbitration so that all matters are at issue, not just those "in dispute". After all, Levy had signed an agreement about the rent reductions and, it seems to me, the only question is whether UCO (?) caused additions to be made without approval.
Pet Peeve!
Hello everyone,
I have a pet peeve and I just had to write about it. It has to do with cell phone users. What is this thing with cell phones!!!! People cannot seem to do anything in life these days without a cell phone attached to their ear! I don't mean to sound like a grouch because truly - I am not. But I believe this cell phone thing is so totally out of control. Mind you - I do have a cell phone and use it all the time. But I don't have the need to communicate with someone every minute that I am awake.
I'm not even going to get in to the driving thing. I am sure you all know about that. It's ridiculous and should be outlawed. Some people can't drive down the street, pull into a parking space or pull out of a parking space - without being on their cell phone!!!!
I get very annoyed when I am at Publix standing in line to check out and the person in front of me, who is being taken care of, doesn't even have the common courtesy to get off the phone to pay attention to the cashier. It is just so darn rude. If I was a cashier, that would make me feel like a non-human being!!!!! I just don't get it. What the heck are these people always talking about anyway!
This morning really topped the cake for me. I was running my errands and stopped in a local shop that I deal with. When it was time for me to check out with my several items - this time it was the cashier being the rude one!! She didn't get off the phone the whole time she was checking me out. We had absolutely no communication at all. If I had to ask a question, I would have had to interrupt her conversation about what she was going to wear this evening with who ever it was she was talking to.
Cell phones really are great. I couldn't live without one. In fact, if I leave the house without my cell phone by mistake, I will turn around and go back home to get it. But for me, it is because it makes me feel safe. If my car broke down or if I ran into any kind of trouble, I know that help is only a cell phone call away. Cell phones are wonderful. I just can't imagine life without one anymore. But I don't have the need to be connected to someone every minute of my life!
Ok - I got that out of my system. I feel much better. Now I can go on with my day!
Be well all,
Chris
DO IT YOURSELF HOME PROJECTS
Hi all,
We have added a new feature in the Side Bar. It is a "Do it Yourself" Website. Just Click on the link and save some money on minor repairs.
Thanks to Ken Davis for this idea.
Dave
Friday, January 25, 2008
CLASSIC ROCK
Hi All,
Ray Charles, Fats Domino and Jerry Lee Lewis jam in New Orleans 1986. This is Classic Rock with a capital C.R.
Click on Post Title, turn up your speakers and,
Enjoy!
Dave
WPRF BUDGET
I recently wrote about the UCO Budget.
The budget for WPRF should also be openly discussed either in the party room or Theater for all interested parties to attend, since their BUDGET is common to all of us.
Currently UCO Operations Committee meets without notice to us, and that leaves us out of the loop. We must insist on being included in this process. Moreover the UCO budget is only $ 5,446,229.00 while the WPRF budget is over
$ 9,700,000.00 or nearly 80% larger than the UCO budget.
WHY shouldn’t we be permitted to sit in on those budget hearings as a way to evaluate our “UCO Operations Committee” expertise or lack thereof? We have a by-law providing for “openness”, so why does UCO still not recognize us as an important part in the WPRF Budget Approval process? Coming Elections would be so much clearer, with such valuable information, certainly.
I believe it is time for CHANGE! How do you feel, UCO needs to know! Tell your Delegate how you feel, by responding here and at upcoming Board/Annual meetings.
We really can make a difference!
Ed Black
Elections
There will be an election on March 7, 2008 for the following:
President,
Two Vice-Presidents
Corresponding Secretary
Recording Secretary
20 Members of the Executive Board.
How does one choose?
In the National Election all of the candidates are calling for change.
We too can cause change by electing those running that had no part in the
current Administration’s decision to: disregard the Millennium Agreement and begin an illegal rent strike and proceed to court immediately. Incidentally, this is the basis for the court action by WPRF against Mr. Loewenstein, President of UCO. The cost for which, unfortunately of course, we are paying.
Accordingly, vote against the status quo by electing new talent wherever possible.
Ed Black
UCO BUDGET
In my Association, we go over, with a fine toothcomb, the specifics of each line item. This helps all understand just what impact we may have on each item. When we have finished this discussion, we hear very few complaints over their new payments. The most difficult part of this is justifying the nearly 40% increase in discretionary spending proposed by UCO, none of which was ever explained in detail, compared to contracts increasing at only 5%!
Unfortunately, UCO handles it quite differently, by asking, “Are there any questions” and only showing the minimal increase in the payment for the entire budget. We never heard that Beautification Committee would be placing park benches and bird houses around the village, since the Officers of UCO don’t seem to believe we have a R I G H T to participate. How can this committee possibly place benches when we haven’t even begun to resolve the “SOIL ERROSION” problem and will likely be working on the solution for YEARS since the UCO Officers failed to adequately fund the resolution for the last three years?
UCO should have each Committee speak on their proposed budget for all to APPROVE or DISAPPROVE as was intended by the budgeting process called for in the by-laws. So WHY do we settle for less?
Why did we permit the budget to be approved without the explanation for each line item? We certainly could then discuss a refining of those items that should INCREASE and those that should DECREASE, which is precisely OUR RESPONSIBILITY, as Delegates!
Those Associations that routinely do not attend may be responding that: being ignored just doesn’t appeal to them. Perhaps inclusion would appeal to them and the rest of us as well.
How do you feel? UCO needs to hear from you!
BLOOMBERG FINANCIAL AND WORLD NEWS
Hi all,
We have added a comprehensive Financial and World news link at the Side Bar. It includes Video and Audio links and of course WEB textual data.
Comments on this feature would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks to Ed Black for the idea to add this feature.
Dave
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS WEB CAPTURE EXERCISE
Hi All,
The Library of Congress (LOC) WEB Capture exercise is one of the great efforts in Information Archiving and retrieval of modern times. The following snippet from the Site will give you an idea of the scope. Please click on the Title of this Post to go to the LOC site and explore the entire project.
Dave
Start Extract........................
The Library of Congress preserves the nation's cultural artifacts and provides enduring access to them. The Library's traditional functions of acquiring, cataloging, preserving and serving collection materials of historical importance to the Congress and the American people to foster education and scholarship extend to digital materials, including Web sites.
In 2000, the Library of Congress established a pilot project to collect and preserve these primary source materials. A multidisciplinary team of Library staff representing cataloging, legal, public services, and technology services studied methods to evaluate, select, collect, catalog, provide access to, and preserve these materials for future generations of researchers. The Library developed thematic Web archives on such topics as the United States National Elections of 2000, 2002, and 2004, the Iraq War, and the events of September 11. More about these collections can be found at the MINERVA Web Preservation project Web site.
End Extract.....................
Thursday, January 24, 2008
POSTING IN ANNONYMITY
Hi all,
I have received an Email suggesting that some folks would prefer to post without revealing their identity. This is no problem, simply use a "screen name" when you create your account. You may even avoid using your main Email address, by first creating a HOTMAIL account and using that Email address (screenname@hotmail.com) when you create your BLOG account, in this way, no one will know who you are, not even your BLOG Administrators. In Cyberspace, there are many ways to skin the digital cat.
Dave
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
CONGRESSMAN WEXLER- AMNESTY
Our borders are overrun with Drugs and Illegal Aliens , S Fl. has become a third world country with tens of thousands of illegals living 20 to a room in slumlord bldgs., hundreds more coming everyday and This is Congressman Wexler's answer to the problem . Comprehensive Immigration reform is code for AMNESTY
January 22, 2008Mr. Dear Mr. McNelis:Thank you for contacting my office regarding, H.R. 4088, the "Secure America through Verification and Enforcement Act" (SAVE Act). I appreciate your views on this important issue. The SAVE Act is an enforcement-only approach to address illegal immigration. I have very serious concerns with this legislation. First, the bill would require employers to use an internet-based system -- the E-Verify system -- which provides employers with an electronic means of verifying the employment eligibility of a recently hired individual. However, the E-Verify system is flawed and contains many serious problems. These flaws could force workers with erroneous information to be laid-off and would prevent them from working for any lawful business for the weeks or months it would take for government agencies to resolve the problem. Lawful employees should not have to fight the government just to keep working. Moreover, businesses should not lose experienced employees while government data glitches are resolved.In addition, the SAVE Act will expand detention facilities used to house illegal immigrants and would increase funding to local law enforcement authorities for enforcing our Nation’s immigration laws. However, enforcing our immigration laws is the responsibility of federal law enforcement officials, not local law enforcement officials. Enforcement-only policies will not repair our Nation’s broken immigration system. The punitive and enforcement-only focus of the SAVE Act will only force illegal immigrants into hiding and increase human trafficking. I firmly believe that this is an unacceptable result. Instead, we need a comprehensive approach that will repair the process used by immigrants to legally enter the country and become legal citizens; we need to repair the process for immigrants to legally work in our country; and we need to address the massive backlog of visas for immigrant families. This bill was only recently introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. Please be assured that I will keep your views in mind as this bill is considered and debated on the floor of the House. Thank you again for taking the time to write. Please feel free to contact me with any additional questions you may have or anytime I may be of assistance to you. If you would like to be updated on these and other issues, please stop by my website (www.wexler.house.gov) and sign up for my electronic newsletter. I hope you will find these tools to be valuable resources in keeping up with events in Washington and South Florida.
With warm regards, Robert Wexler Member of CongressRW:emConfirmation# 10048292Please do not reply to this email address.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
REMOVAL OF CONTRIBUTERS NAMES
Hi All,
We, (the Admins), are trying to figure out why users are not signing up to Post new subjects. To date, only 22 have signed up to do so. It has occured to me that perhaps folks do not like their names listed, so they have been removed (only the publication of names has been stopped; your ability to Post remains intact) . Of course this can be reversed and we would very much appreciate your input on this issue. In the end, this BLOG will rise or fall based on usage volume and New Subjects of interest. It is unlikely that 22 active users can sustain this effort for long.
Please let us know what you think and what we might do to improve the situation.
Dave
CONGRESSIONAL VOTING RECORD
Thanks to Mike for the following feed on Congressional voting in our district. hopefully he will update it as new data arrives.
Dave
January 21, 2008 In this MegaVote for Florida's 19th Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes -House: S-MINER ActHouse: National Defense Authorization Act, FY 2008 House: HOPE VI Improvement and Reauthorization Act Upcoming Congressional Bills -Senate: National Defense Authorization Act, FY 2008 House: Veto Override on Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007
Editor's Note: The Senate was in recess last week and will return on Tuesday, January 22.
Recent House Votes
S-MINER Act - Vote Passed (214-199, 17 Not Voting)The House passed the S-MINER Act in an attempt to improve mine safety standards.Rep. Robert Wexler voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
National Defense Authorization Act, FY2008 - Vote Passed (369-46, 15 Not Voting)On Wednesday the House approved a modified version of the defense authorization bill, which addressed concerns that caused the President to unexpectedly veto the original bill last month.Rep. Robert Wexler voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
HOPE VI Improvement and Reauthorization Act - Vote Passed (271-130, 29 Not Voting)The House passed this bill to reauthorize the HOPE VI grant program that revitalizes severely distressed public housing.Rep. Robert Wexler voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Upcoming Votes
National Defense Authorization Act, FY2008 - H.R.4986The Senate is likely to take up this defense policy bill when it returns from recess.
Veto Override on Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007 - H.R.3963The House is expected to vote on overriding the president’s veto of this bill to expand the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
ADMIN. Note.
Mike has contacted the providers of this content seeking permission to Link direct to the Content. They prefer that each individual wishing to view the Data must subscribe to it. Here is where to start to do so;
https://ssl.capwiz.com/exxonmobil/megavote/
Thanks Mike.
Dave
BLOG ADMINISTRATION
Hi all,
I have asked Ed Black and Ken Davis to join me as Co-Administrators of your BLOG. I am pleased to announce that both have agreed to do so.
Ken Davis started the Century Village Web Site at the request of Kurt Weiss during his Administration as UCO President. After two years, Ken also started the CV Q & A as a part of the CV Web Site, which he ran for two additional years. Ken is computer savvy and his experience is exactly what is needed on this BLOG.
Ed Black is also computer savvy and brings a comprehensive knowledge of Condominium Operations. As UCO Vice President Ed acquired a unique knowledge of CV infrastructure and process. This wealth of knowledge will be a positive asset in responding to any sort of question relating to operating CV and the Associations.
With the efforts of Ken and Ed, there is no doubt that your BLOG will steadily improve in its ability to provide solid accurate information on any subject of interest to the Unit Owners of CV. This service will be conducted in an open and unfiltered manner with no Political shaping or deception.
Welcome Ken and Ed.
Dave
Monday, January 21, 2008
Politician
Hope You all enjoy
A cowboy named Bud was overseeing his herd in a remote mountainous pasture in California when suddenly a brand-new BMW advanced out of a dust cloud towards him. The driver, a young man in a Armani suit, Gucci shoes, RayBan sunglasses and YSL tie, leans out the window and asks the cowboy, "If I tell you exactly how many cows and calves you have in your herd, Will you give me a calf?" Bud looks at the man, obviously a yuppie, then looks at his peacefully grazing herd and calmly answers, "Sure, Why not?" The yuppie parks his car, whips out his Dell notebook computer,connects it to his Cingular RAZR V3 cell phone, and surfs to a NASA page on the Internet, where he calls up a GPS satellite to get an exact fix on his location which he then feeds to another NASA satellite that scans the area in an ultra-high-resolution photo. The young man then opens the digital photo in Adobe Photoshop and exports it to an image processing facility in Hamburg , Germany ..Within seconds, he receives an email on his Palm Pilot that the image has been processed and the data stored. He then accesses a MS-SQL database through an ODBC connected Excel spreadsheet with email O n his Blackberry and, after a few minutes, receives a response. Finally, he prints out a full-color, 150-page report on his hi-Tech Miniaturized HP LaserJet printer and finally turns to the cowboy and says, "You have exactly 1,586 cows and calves." "That's right. Well, I guess you can take one of my calves," says Bud. He watches the young man select one of the animals and looks on amused as the young man stuffs it into the trunk of his car. Then Bud says to the young man, "Hey, if I can tell you exactly what your business is, will you give me back my calf?" The young man thinks about it for a second and then says, "Okay, why not?" "You're a Congressman for the U.S. Government", says Bud. "Wow! That's correct," says the yuppie, "but how did you guess that?"
"No guessing required." answered the cowboy. "You showed up here even though nobody called you; you want to get paid for an answer I already knew,to a question I never asked. You tried to show me how much smarter than me you are; and you don't know a thing about cows...this is a Herd of sheep . . .Now give me back my dog.
Comcast - What's the difference in speeds?
I have a question for all you smart computer geeks out there. I have my service through Comcast and pay $42.95 a month for the fast speed. A friend just told me that she was paying that with Comcast but now has gone down to the slower speed and is paying $24 a month and she can't even tell the difference. She said you only need the faster speed if you are downloading movies or music. Any opinions on that out there?
HOMELESS VET; IRAQ WAR LEGACY
Hi all,
Documented here is yet one more horror story of the Iraq conflict.
Click on the title of this Post to read about this Homeless Vet. and his sad journey, What will be done for them all.
Thanks to mike for the reference.
Dave
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Video link Poll
Hi All,
I direct your attention to the User Poll question in the Sidebar on the left; "Do you want a direct link capability to UTube/GOOGLE Videos". One BLOGGER has asked what these things are; a fair question:
YouTube (pronounced /juːtuːb/ or /juːtjuːb/[1]) is a video sharing website where users can upload, view and share video clips. YouTube was created in mid-February 2005 by three former PayPal employees.[2] The San Bruno-based service uses Adobe Flash technology to display a wide variety of video content, including movie clips, TV clips and music videos, as well as amateur content such as videoblogging and short original videos. In October 2006, Google Inc. announced that it had reached a deal to acquire the company for US$1.65 billion in Google stock. The deal closed on November 13, 2006.[3]
Unregistered users can watch most videos on the site, while registered users are permitted to upload an unlimited number of videos. Some videos are available only to users of age 18 or older (e.g. videos containing potentially offensive content). The uploading of pornography or videos containing nudity is prohibited. Related videos, determined by title and tags, appear onscreen to the right of a given video. In YouTube's second year, functions were added to enhance user ability to post video 'responses' and subscribe to content feeds.
Few statistics are publicly available regarding the number of videos on YouTube. However, in July 2006, the company revealed that more than 100 million videos were being watched every day, and 2.5 billion videos were watched in June 2006. 50,000 videos were being added per day in May 2006, and this increased to 65,000 by July.[4]
In August 2006, The Wall Street Journal published an article revealing that YouTube was hosting about 6.1 million videos (requiring about 45 terabytes of storage space), and had about 500,000 user accounts.[5] As of 20 January 2008, a YouTube search for "*" returns over 65,000,000 videos (the asterisk is a commonly used wildcard character in search engines, therefore showing all videos)[6].
I hope this is useful in helping you all to vote in the Poll!
Dave
Great Movie! - National Treasure: Book of Secrets
On the lighter side, I went to see National Treasures: Book of Secrets last night. What an absolutely fabulous movie. I highly recommend it to all of you. If you haven't seen it yet - try to see it. It really is that great! Fabulous cast too! Hope everybody is having a nice, lazy Sunday afternoon!
Loewenstein for PRESIDENT?
In the February Reporter a comment jumped off the page at most of us, I quote: “I have decided to seek another term as President, especially since I feel a moral obligation to see the Arbitration with WPRF to its conclusion”.
Mr. President, what about your moral obligation to uphold the responsibilities of the office of PRESIDENT, and follow the Millennium Agreement? See page 26, item 11. “Defense: Any attack on the terms and/or conditions of this Agreement by any third party shall be jointly defended by UCO and Management Company. EACHY PARTY shall vigorously defend this agreement.” Does your filing a suit against WPRF to create a Registry (and a rent strike) fulfill THIS moral obligation of which you speak?
What about your moral obligation to inform your constituents of your failing to properly fund existing expenses of UCO? Let’s just suppose the SOIL EROSION PROBLEM, that you have only approved funding for at a mere $ 500,000.00, really costs, not the guess of $ 3,000,000.00, but in reality $ 6,000,000.00. We now only have 10% of the funding available and the deficit you have permitted is 100% on UCO’s annual budget. Deficit now, and possibly growing: 5,500,000.00
Lest we forget you also extended the “Paving Reserve fund", without any authorization or justification whatsoever, for an additional 3 years. All the while FAILING to obtain estimates for the $ 4,000,000.00 to repave the entire village roadway, based on:
Cost of living increases of more than 3% yearly during the 9 years of this fund life.
Cost of oil by-products, that have increased by more than 66% in the 9 year fund life.
Cost of insurance increases contractors must pay for public liability, etc.
Cost of the removal of some of the roadbed prior to resurfacing, knowing all too well this was NEVER a part of the estimate, but must be included to correct the flooding and trip hazard that currently exists and will worsen if we resurface without removing some existing surface areas.
Will this also create a new deficit item? Certainly! This blank check amount could reach another 4,000,000.00 that will continue to grow as you read.
How do we consider reelecting someone who sidesteps these very important and costly issues?
Total amount of under funded items:
Legal Case WPRF versus Loewenstein and Arbitration: Close to $ 300,000.00
Paving Reserve: $ 4,000,000.00
Soil Erosion $ 5,500,000.00
Total amount $ 9,800,000.00
Almost 2 times the annual budget of UCO!
P l e a s e, is t h e r e another Candidate for PRESIDENT out there?
BLOG Changes
Hi all,
You will note that there is a new look and some significant new features. why all these changes?
Please understand that your BLOG Admin. is climbing a steep learning curve, as perhaps are some of you, I am not an expert in HTML. If you do not like the new look, please let me know about it.
One new feature spins out of a Comment made by Ken Davis regarding being able to see, at a glance, if any new Comments have been added. I have cobbled a partial fix which I would appreciate your input on. Note on the Sidebar of the Home Page, in the Sidebar to the left, you will see the first few words of the most recent 5 comments. To read those comments and their related Post, simply click on the snippet. We have also added a Newsreel feature, please advise of any topics you would like added.
Feedback would be greatly appreciated on these changes.
Thanks,
Dave
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Water Levels
The water levels in the CV lakes are very low. I was under the impression that the water reclaiming system was supposed to elimate this problem. If I am incorrect would someone please inform me as to the correct info. Thanks a bunch
1999 Model Document Program Suspended
Please be advised that a per a telephone conversation with Rod Tennyson on Friday at the UCO Office, I was informed that the 1999 Model Document program has been suspended. As many of you know, Bob Fogelman has given many years of effort in assisting associations in updating their condominium documents. He is quite ill at this time and I hope that he is in your prayers as he is in mine for a full recovery.
I am requesting that since Rod has suspended this document program due to the age of the documents and associated filing fees and office costs, that he give his permission in writing for the free use of these documents. Many associations (approximately 40) are operating under the original documents (Circa 1969) and may be better off with the 1999 documents. A problem with this does exist. I have assisted associations in their amendment process for a number of years now and since Rod is no longer involved with these documents, I feel that my further unassisted participation in helping assiociations update their documents places me in a position of engaging in the Unlicenced Practice of Law. I advise associations to seek their own legal counsel regarding the updating or amending of their Declaration of Condominium and/or Bylaws.
I can't help to wonder about the timing of this all. Is this Rod's first step in disassociating himself with the Village... stay tuned, only time will tell.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Oldies but Goodies
Hi All,
Do you remember the Burma Shave Road signs?
Click on the Title and turn up the volume.
Thanks to Mike.
Dave
FREE SPEECH
George L might be right or wrong on the legal issues which are taking place as I write this post, I sure don't know. The one thing I do know is, UCO under his leadership refuses to allow the free flow of information on the CV Q&A FORUM. For this reason alone I cannot vote for George. Many an American died for this right that George has taken upon himself to deny The CV Membership.
We must elect someone who respects the basic American Right of unfettered speech in the next election.
Arbitration Costs: (Legal Costs?)
Let's presume the rate of pay for an Arbitrator is $ 1,500.00 per day. We may then further extend that amount for the "3" to be $ 4,500.00 per day worked. Provided that amount is correct, the entire process for the "3", for 1 week would cost $ 22,500.00. That amount factoring in the likelihood of 4 weeks would amount to $ 90,000.00.
FYI: the following documents additional costs:
REF: http://www.adr.org/sp.asp?id=22440#Fees
(Fees)
An initial filing fee is payable in full by a filing party when a claim, counterclaim or additional claim is filed. A case service fee will be incurred for all cases that proceed to their first hearing. This fee will be payable in advance at the time that the first hearing is scheduled. This fee will be refunded at the conclusion of the case if no hearings have occurred. However, if the Association is not notified at least 24 hours before the time of the scheduled hearing, the case service fee will remain due and will not be refunded. These fees will be billed in accordance with the above schedule. For the $ 11,000,000.00 regularly written about in the UCO Reporter as the “amount”, the “Initial Filing Fee” would be $22,500.00 with the “Case Service Fee” $ 6,000.00 Adding another 28,500.00 to OUR costs.
Anyone interested in reviewing the UCO budget, passed in October will not find items addressing this cost or the costs of "copying 7 file cabinet drawers of materials, requested by WPRF". Adding to this extraordinary expense are the costs of our representation by our legal Team, at the rate of $ 300.00 hourly, $ 2,100.00 daily, $ 10,500.00 weekly and $ 42,000.00 for the same 4 weeks for the arbitration and you have just reached a grand total of $ 160,500.00 spent.
None of this information has been placed before the Delegate Assembly for discussion or approval. Why does UCO have this BLANK CHECK?
What if the process takes 6 weeks to resolve? The costs jump by 50% forAnother $ 66,000.00 to the new total of $ 226,500.00. THIS amount is just for the time spent before the Arbitrators. Our legal Team will need time to prepare for "OUR DAY IN COURT", and if we factor the same six weeks preparation for review of all the 'evidence gathered, the cost increases again by another $ 42,000.00. Please keep in mind this brings the GRAND TOTAL to $ 268.500.00. I believe in light of the terrible mistake made by our Legal Team to have the case against Mr. Loewenstein removed to the Federal court, some questions need to be answered. Especially since the Federal Court retained jurisdiction only to resolve the costs that will be OURS to reimburse to WPRF, for this mistake in judgment. How much this will add to OUR cost.....is currently unknown. Judge Hurley disagreed with the argument of “diversity” and rejected that point, but also state clearly, this cannot be transferred to the Federal Court anyway!!
How much is the Director’s and Officer’s Insurance going to pay of this amount? What is known, is this BLANK CHECK is continuing to GROW. Just who amongst us spends without the consideration of HOW WE ARE GOING TO PAY FOR IT?? The amount we just reviewed will currently cost each and everyone of us over $ 34.00. How much more will these costs increase before we have a discussion of this important issue???
Bob Marshall notes:
I believe that most if not all of the above to be true and that is enough to upset most of us. HOWEVER, when one reads the Judges position carefully it becomes even more troubling.The reason given for the transfer from State to Federal Court was something called diversity. The claim made was that the building is owned by the Corporation housed in New York or perhaps Delaware.The judge first ruled that diversity does not exist because the claim is between George and WPRF and the other corporation is not involved.Then the judge further ruled and I quote "Moreover, there is a clearer, independent reason why this case must be remanded, although it was not raised by either party. A defendant sued in the state courts of his home state cannot remove to federal court on the basis of diversity,even if the parties are diverse."My goodness, one might think that for $300 bucks an hour "our" attorney would have known that.So the saga goes on and we continue to pay.Oh yes, speaking of paying, I further quote "Putting aside the dispute about whether the parties are diverse, defendant knew that he was a citizen of Florida, and knew or should have known that removal on diversity grounds is not appropriate where a Florida citizen is sued in Florida state court. Therefore, the court will grant the plaintiff's (WPRF) request for attorney's fees and costs."The judge gives WPRF 20 days to submit their billing statements.I can only suppose that when those are received from the judge, whatever the amount it will be challenged by "our" attorney at $300 per hour. Seems like good work if you can get it!
Is this village really going to allow this person to be President for another two years?
wow i am in
thank you i am in now glad to see more people using this than the other one
thank you ALL and lets keep this going and going and going
thanks
franko
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Hey I did it!
Hi Dave. Thanks for the invitation! I think I did it and now am a member who can post. Just got home from work and had to try it. This is my second try. I think the first try I might have started my own blog. Oh well - let see what happens if I start getting all these crazy emails on my computer. Hopefully this time I did it right. Thanks again for your help and starting this amazing website. I hope to contribute more in the future but right now I can't think of anything to say except thanks - and then I will look to see if it shows up!
Isn't this charming
Author: carole (---.hsd1.fl.comcast.net)Date: 01-17-08 18:01
Hi Patricia,
People do not like the rules of the forum, so they went elsewhere.
Leave it to (She, who we don't speak her name) to be so helpful to Patricia.
LIEBERMAN
This guy is a disgrace, he sucked off the democratic party all his life and now he is backing a Republican who is for AMNESTY.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
WPRF vs George Loewenstein Federal case
As you may be aware, WPRF filed a law suit in the 15th. Judicial Circuit Court, Palm Beach County, against UCO President George Loewenstein, on the grounds of Failure to make Rental payments and Tortious Interference with other Lessees Rental Payments due on the Rec. facilities lease. George Loewenstein had the case moved to the United States District Court Southern District of Florida, The Federal Bench, before Judges Hopkins and Hurley. The Case Number is; 07-81063-CIV-DTKH. This case can be fully researched on the PACER Federal Courts Filing system.
On January 16th. 2008, Judge Hurley Found that the Federal Court has no Juris Diction in this case and Remanded it back to the State Court; of particularly ominous import is that George Loewenstein was found liable for Attorneys fees incurred. One can only shudder at the thought that should the Arbitration in progress fail, and if we find "ourselves" back in front of this Judge on the larger matter of the Clubhouse case; how might this judge find???
Please advise if there are any questions, as I have examined all the documents in the case which is now closed!
Dave
UCO
Why is UCO giving the MEDICAL Bldg. a FREE RIDE when all the condo owners have to PAY to live here?
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
POST RETENTION WINDOW
Hi All,
This is a reminder that the Post Retention window is 14 days.
Hence the earliest Posts will start to age-off. If there is any Post that anyone wishes to recover after it ages-off, you will find it in the Archives, which are accessible from the home Page, in the panel on the left of the page. Being that this BLOG is powered by GOOGLE, memory is not of great concern at this time, I believe we will be allowed some 6Tbyte; so encourage your Computer literate friends and neighbors to join and BLOG away!
Thanks,
Dave
ILLEGAL ALIENS
I have been a card carrying Democrat all my life but find I must change to an Independent because the Democrats are selling America out by supporting AMNESTY. A fence must be built on our southern border to stop the Illegal Alien invasion of our country.
Employers hiring Illegal Aliens should be fined heavily , any non profits protecting and supporting Illegal Aliens should lose their tax exempt status, Landlords who rent to Illegal Aliens should be fined heavily . Not one cent of American tax dollars should be spent on an Illegal Alien, be it for medical , schooling or any other reason. .
This is America, We speak English, our forefathers came here for the most part legally , learned English and assimilated into the fabric of American society. They did not hoist their native lands flag over The Stars and Stripes and disrespect the American government. No child born to an Illegal Alien should be given automatic American Citizenship.
Wake up Democrats , call your Senator and Congressman , tell them to support legislation to Fence the border and deport all criminal Illegal Aliens and as many other Illegals as Possible.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Voting
Just a reminder:
Early voting starts today at the Library outside the Village, not our library in the Clubhouse.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Friday, January 11, 2008
CV Computer Usage
In a Comment stream;
LARRY KALL said...
Anybody have any idea on how many of the 7854 units in CV have a computer ? How many of the 7854 units use a computer only for E Mail?
Jan 11, 2008 9:54:00 PM
The short answer can be derived from statistics developed by the Census Bureau spinning out of the 2000 Census.
28.6% of persons age 65 and higher use a computer.
21.2% of the same demographic use the INTERNET.
The Census Bureau Graphic showing Computer and INTERNET usage by age and disability may be seen at the URL embedded in the Title; simply click on it.
Larry, please consider accepting the INVITATION which I will re-send to you; this will enable you to originate new Posts (new subjects).
Dave
Florida Department of State Elections 2008
Hi All,
The Site contains everything you want to know about 2008 Florida Elections.
Please have a look.
Dave
PS: The Link to the site is embedded in the Post Title, simply click on it
VOTE NO on CONSTITUTIONAL REV.
Good meeting today - showed trickery of Property Tax Initiative. CVers would mostly gain nothing, zip, nada. They would lose services - reductions in Connections transport, home care, libraries, fire, police, schools. The 5-yr COST of this tax cut is figured at $9.3 billion to the state, $894 million to PB County. Less services in order to give Crist a tax cut soundbite.
This is an all or nothing vote on a complex pkg that does not solve real problems. Why is this Constitutional Revision being rushed through when the FL Budget & Tax Reform Commission is currently meeting to come up with a better more workable plan.
There is a nasty legal problem of inequality re portability that could open a legal challenge to all inequalities i.e. our homestead exemption and 3% cap. Do you want to lose your basic rights down the road. If the State (Constitution) gets their hands on local taxation here, they will do it again and again.
Howie will put the mtg video on Channel 63 when he gets to it, so check mornings occasionally (I have no definite time info) See for yourselves.
Why is the Ballot Summary mailed to us in such minuscule print!
FRAU CAROLE
Are the Presidency of the Computer Club and Warden of CV Q&A paid positions? Just wondering.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
INVESTIGATE ALTERNATE CV MANAGEMENTS
CV OperationsGreat suggestion from Bob M, it deserves its own topic:
“I'd suggest the formation of a task force to INVESTIGATE a different process for the administration of the Village.Perhaps this would be somewhat like a Town Manager form of Town management or something entirely different and not considered at this time.What harm could investigation do? In my opinion the current process is covered with warts and is hardly effective.Since this task force has not been considered at this point perhaps it should be developed outside the current administration?I would love to hear some comments, other opinions and any questions.”
Previous CV administrations must have collected many ideas from other Condos and HOAs I would love to know how others manage.
Bensons/Associa does consulting.
I bet Virgil Rizzo has ideas, also the FL Ombudsman coming to CV on 2/15/08.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
WHAT'S NEW IN PBC TAXES
Hi All,
Are you interested in these issues:
Personal Injury Protection is Required for Drivers on January 1, 2008:Florida’s no-fault personal injury protection law resumes January 1, 2008.Read more>
Property Tax Legislation:
Check back to our website soon for a detailed analysis. Read more on Palm Beach County Property Appraiser's website >
To read the articles; go to the following URL:
http://www.pbcgov.com/tax/
Dave
PROBLEMS POSTING
Hi All,
I am receiving feedback about problems Posting.
Folks seem to get as far as making Comments but then hit a wall when it comes to Posting. The main problem is in filling in the NAME of the BLOG and the ADDRESS of the BLOG.
Here they are:
NAME OF BLOG:..... CVBLOGANDCHAT
ADDRESS OF BLOG:.....
http://davesblogandchat.blogspot.com/
So, after successfully navigating thru the "invitation", how do you proceed?
1) Click on NEW POST in upper right of the Home Page.
2) A HTML (HyperText Markup Language) dialog box will pop up. Put in your title, type in your text and click on PUBLISH at the lower left.
If there are questions, do not give up; ASK!!! the reply will help you and others in the same boat.
Dave
New Member
Here goes David. It was a long hall and if this posts its only because of your patience and you ability to teach. I am so grateful to you. I think this blog will be a great thing for CV so if there is anything I can do to help you get this across to everyone, please call on me. I owe you a lot for everything you have done for me. Once again Thanks.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
CVBLOGANDCHAT
Dave , I think You should print up a flyer about the BLOG with directions on how to get to the BLOG,also informing people to pass the info on via the internet to all their friends in CV. I will chip in on the printing costs.A few of us can pass it out at the next delegate meeting. For a change in CV to take place, people have to be informed and this BLOG is the only vehicle for uncensored info. Mike
UCO MATERIAL BREACHES
Ed you said “UCO has exceeded its authority in a number of ways, ... This total disregard of principals of operation is totally unacceptable and must stop!” Do you have a list of UCO breaches? I have a copy of the 2005 Bilateral Agreement, although my Assoc did not sign, so I see where your terminology is coming from.
Postings
Is there a way to know that a new post has been added to a subject or am I just plain missing it?
Now, I am writing down the # of answers and in that wayI know if there has been an addition.
Ken
Monday, January 7, 2008
POLLING PLACES
There is a question on the CV Q & A about Polling places for the election coming up! Since that question exceeds the guidelines of the Q & A (tile places, high school reunions...Etc....) I will answer it here:
The official PBC Election site:
http://pbcelections.org/ElectionPollingPlaces.aspx?eid=0
Lists the Official Polling places by PRECINCT NUMBER.
Look at your Voter registration card for your Precint Number, mine is 2028.
The Polling Place is listed as the CV Clubhouse.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EARLY VOTING
In addition to the information above, there is a provision for EARLY VOTING; please see the following, extracted from the referenced site:
REF: http://www.pbcelections.org/content.aspx?id=25
About Early Voting
The 2004 Legislature passed legislation which standardizes early voting throughout the state. Early voting is defined as "casting a ballot prior to Election Day at a location designated by the supervisor of elections and depositing the voted ballot in the tabulation system."
Under the new provisions, which went into effect July 1, 2004, All supervisors will begin conducting early voting in their main and branch offices 15 days before the election. In addition, supervisors may designate any city hall or public library as an early voting site; however, if so designated, these sites must be geographically located so that all voters in the county have an equal opportunity to cast a vote. Early voting will continue through two days prior to the election.
Early voting will be conducted at least 8 hours per day on each weekday during the early voting period and will be provided for 8 hours in the aggregate for each weekend during the period.
Voters who want to vote early should remember to bring a photo and signature identification with them.
Dave
PS: Please note the DIRECT LINK feature; simply click on the Post Title to go to the referenced Link.
Dave
UCO Elections
How many delegates would like to see a candidate run for President of UCO against the incumbent?
How many Delegates would vote for someone other than the incumbent?
If there was a motto in the political community, today … it is certainly “CHANGE”.
It is all you hear on the news. Both Democrats and Republicans are speaking of it. People want to see a democracy where little people, like us, have a voice. Just like this Blog, not restricted because of your content or opinion
If you believe changes should occur, how many delegates agree with you and would vote for this CHANGE?
Sunday, January 6, 2008
COMPUTER CLUB
Would anyone know if the Computer Club is run in the same FASCIST manner as the The CV Q&A? I was thinking about joining it. Mike
EXCHANGE OF INFO
Dave , Thanks for the BLOG, it is a pleasure to engage in a true Q & A format . We might not solve all the problems of UCO and CV but it sure helps to be informed about some of the issues confronting all the condo owners. Maybe the UCO officers would participate in the forum , helping all to understand the issues. Mike
Fees and Expenses
I have been a resident at CV for 1 year. When I arrived, I received my assessments from my condo assoc and WPRF.
I have asked questions as to how these costs are allocated. I was told that the costs are allocated based on the sq. ft. of my condo as a percentage of the total sq. ft. of all the condos.
I have a problem with understanding this. My condo documents clearly indicate that not all units have the same sq. ft. For example, in my condo, an outside 2br is 2 ft. wider than an interior 2 br., and the 1 br. units have different dimensions. This was not taken into account when the monthly condo fees were developed. If they were, no one has demonstrated that to me. I have made this infomation available to Andy Rose of Seacrest Services who prepares the annual operating budgets for all the condo assocs. in CV.
I learned from Monica Wells at WPRF that the same methodology is used in part for the the WPRF fees except for the shoreline operations $5.31......I do not have a shoreline.
If anyone can provide more insight on the matter of cost allocations etc. It would be enlightening.
Thanks
Howard
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Breach of Contract
Have any of you experienced a refusal by UCO to permit an attorney review of a questionable applicant? Did You know this a contractual obligation of UCO through the BILATERAL AGREEMENT?
One Association has already experienced a breach of this agreement by Mr. Loewenstein.
That’s right BREACH OF CONTRACT!
When Mr. President was first appointed Assistant Treasurer and later elected to the Treasurer post he held for two years, he overtly dismantled the contract with all Associations. I say overtly because even though the contract was placed in effect prior to his appointment, he nevertheless had no right to dismantle this contract, nor did he ask the approval of the Executive Board or the Board of Directors, Delegate Assembly. It would seem apparent that the old adage “absolute power corrupts absolutely”
Our agreement with UCO is clear. We pay $ 100.00 per investigation and whatever remains after the costs are paid, simply remains in an “Appropriated Fund” “used for the unanticipated and unbudgeted legal costs as an appropriated fund balance” Why then has UCO changed the process to budget the “Income” and “Expenses” for Investigations?
If we were still operating as before this simply is not necessary. Why the change? Who authorized it? Do we Associations continue to have absolute authority to seek attorney review and expect defense if sued? Only the President of UCO knows, and that is just unacceptable. He refusal of one Association has set in concrete the Breach that is now in effect.
How do you feel about this change in policy, UCO NEEDS to know?
CV Q&A
Until I was exposed to Carole's CV Q&A, I was opposed to Sharia Law but now I think there is a place for it, in very limited doses. Maybe UCO could set aside an area on the Bar-B-Que island to practice stoning. I hope this doesn't deflate the value of my CV Real Estate . Mike
Friday, January 4, 2008
United Civic Organization ELECTIONS
United Civic Organization ELECTIONS
Here we are in another election season for Officers and Board Members for UCO.
Question:
Should we reelect officers and Board Members who ignored their responsibility to follow the mandate of the Millennium Agreement and:
1. Negotiate
2. Mediate
3. Arbitrate
4. Finally, file a law suit when the first three clearly fail to resolve the issues, and CLEARLY we have a real chance to improve the outcome with EVIDENCE supporting our position.
The Candidates seeking reelection clearly ignored this contractual mandate and began the legal action WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE Delegate Assembly. Only a FEDERAL JUDGE finally put a stop their efforts.
Many believe we need someone to run against these officers who violated their responsibility and defeat their reelection bid, soundly.
Many others believe they should resign in disgrace, for their failures of judgment. Especially, since their actions have placed many hundreds of thousands of your dollars at risk in these legal actions.
How do you feel? I am sure that both the candidates and your neighbors want to know.
LAKE RELATED
Kudos to Beautification Cmte for bird box plans. When we get around to letting vegetation grow on the shores of our waterways and perhaps making small islands in shallow areas we might enjoy something like this. Nature lovers allow several minutes. http://groverphoto.phanfare.com/slideshow.aspx?username=groverphoto&album_id=304621
Sandhill crane pics were taken in the Suntree area south of Titusville. Robert Grover, a dentist, didn't actually catch the birth but, he got some great shots (the second egg never hatched). Then he put together a slide show with music.
(Testing, I got error when I tried to add enclosure link!)
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
NEW FORMAT
Hi all,
Please let me know if you like the new format, or would you prefer the previous "dots" format.
Dave
Please let me know if you like the new format, or would you prefer the previous "dots" format.
Dave
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
AUTHOR A POST (NEW SUBJECT)
Would you like to be a contributer to this BLOG. Would you like to be enabled to Author new Posts (New Subjects). It's easy, send me your Email address at nsasigint@comcast.net . I will then enable your Email address and you will receive an Invitation. Upon accepting the Invitation, you will be enabled to Contribute Questions and Information via New Posts. Make our BLOG a voice for all CV Unit Owners.
WiFi HOTSPOT LOCATOR
Hi All,
For all of the mobile computers out there; here is a WiFi HOTSPOT locator:
http://hotspot.msn.com/web/SearchView.aspx
Just fill in the blanks and up comes a map with the HOTSPOTS.
Dave
MEDICAL BUILDING
Ok, Ok, I know I'm a pain in the neck but I have not gotten a satisfactory answer from UCO or anyone else . So I will ask the ? again.Why is the Medical Bldg. allowed to do business in CV a (private community) without paying UCO for the privilege to do? There seems to be no public record of a right away or easement granting said property the right to bring people into CV,be it tenant employees or anyone else. Dues go up in CV and every profit center should be taken advantage of to defer cost from the condo owners in the village.
Mike
Mike
FLORIDA PROPERTY TAX BALLOT INITIATIVES
FLORIDA PROPERTY TAX BALLOT INITIATIVES:
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A FREE LUNCH!!!
There is a Town meeting coming up wherein Susan Bucher will hold forth on certain PROPERTY TAX initiatives. In preparation for this meeting, the following references may prove interesting:
http://www.floridaballotinitiative.com/petitions/45505-11.pdf
AND
http://www.floridaballotinitiative.com/petitions/45505-8.pdf
Please try to attend the Town meeting
Dave
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A FREE LUNCH!!!
There is a Town meeting coming up wherein Susan Bucher will hold forth on certain PROPERTY TAX initiatives. In preparation for this meeting, the following references may prove interesting:
http://www.floridaballotinitiative.com/petitions/45505-11.pdf
AND
http://www.floridaballotinitiative.com/petitions/45505-8.pdf
Please try to attend the Town meeting
Dave
NEW POSTS
Hi All,
In case you have not noticed, any registered user may initiate his/her own Post (New Subject).
Start at the Home Page: http://davesblogandchat.blogspot.com/
Sign In at the upper right and then in the DASHBOARD dialog box, click on NEW POST.
This will bring up a full HTML editor box into which you may enter your Post.
Select your FONT and TYPE SIZE and enter your subject title. Then type in your QUESTION OR INFORMATION and when completed, click on PUBLISH POST at lower left.
Others may then append COMMENTS to your Post.
Dave
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