ADIOS!

Blog Closes Down

2011-12-31T21:54:00.000-05:00

Its time to say Farewell to the Whisperings.The first post on this blog was on May 29, 2007. This is the last one. There have been over 77,600+ hits in those four and a half years.

A new day of communication is coming, right on your Bright House TV screen. Stay tuned.

Nothing will be deleted for a month or so, the archives are quite interesting. Thanks to the loyal followers who left comments periodically.

Have a safe and happy new year. May peace return to our community.

Mark Your Calendars

2011-12-31T10:59:00.002-05:00

The culmination of a year's work will be celebrated in a ceremony honoring the veterans of Regency Cove on Sunday January 15, at 2 pm. Dignitaries from MacDill will speak, a short video will be presented, and the books will finally be handed out. The publishing is coming to an end, so please reserve your book in the next few days. The books are being sold for $10 at Sunset 10 (Bedores).

We're hoping that refreshments will be served so that the vets can linger over the stories and share a few more memories.

Thank you to all who took the time to share your memories and photos with us. We respect those who chose not to share. Ed and I hope that this keepsake will be cherished in your family for a long time to come. The whole experience meant a lot to both of us.

See you there!

2011 - The Year in Review

2011-12-31T10:24:00.002-05:00

This hasn't been one of my favorite years, but here's how it was reported on the blog. This is the third annual Regency Cove Whisperings Year in Review.

January 2011
The new year began with Happy Days and coupon books. The Friendship Club new year party was again a sellout! The Vegetable Lady was approved set up a stand to sell fruit and vegetables twice a week. Mary Willsey writes her last Friendship Club article in the Outlook, since the presidency has turned over to Alice Disharoon.

Wade Nimon

February 2011
Another Regency Cove Gasparilla celebration goes off, due to the cooperation of Mike Ross, Ron Jeffries, Chuck Davis (Flotilla) and Cheryl Corbett ( Decorations). The Veteran's anthology is announced in the Outlook, and interviews begin in earnest. Leonard Helbig, Tony Sencich, and Mike Ross begin fabrication of the new cement benches for Sunset Point. Maintenance supervisor Ed Scobee is one of the team, doing a lion's share of the work. A new lawn service for our common areas started this month. (Wade is the most senior veteran in the book)

March 2011
In an unprecedented quorum, the shareholders of Regency Cove vote at the Annual Meeting 251 to 5 to not fully fund the Reserves, after threatened with a fabricated 33% maintenance increase. Elaine Belba, Dennis Hayes, and Rose Reis are elected to the board. The 18 Hole Golf League ended its season with a banquet. To bid farewell to our Snowbirds, the Friendship Club hosts a Sock Hop and the Yacht Club presented a free dinner dance to its members.
On March 31, a tornado sweeps across Pinellas County, hitting two mobile home parks in Largo, crosses the bay, and hits Tampa just south of Regency Cove. Many folks gathered at the clubhouse, while the TV blared warnings. A nice time was had by all. Thank you, God.

April 2011

The new benches are placed on Sunset Point, and a few volunteers come out to assist. Tony and Mike have hand mixed over a ton of cement, and Sandy and Etel Helbig sand and stain over 500 feet of lumber for slats. A meeting is held at the Platt Library by Bayside West Neighborhood Assn. informing us that Georgetown developers want to be grandfathered in on traffic issues. Only one board member attends, Dennis Kralick. Residents of Regency Cove respond with a Town Hall meeting set up by director Dennis Kralick for one week later.

May 2011
The infamous Town Hall meeting of May 5 allowed Georgetown officials and attorney to respond to questions of residents. They got an earful! Our board was not prepared to join in our fight against the developer, DeBartolo. Shortly after that, resident Ellen Nimon took the microphone and described the board's historical stand against Gandy Improvements and radical Georgetown development. The people of Regency Cove spoke, but only 2 board members remained to listen to the people.
The Kentucky Derby party was held on May 7. Simultaneously, an impromptu meeting was held at the pavillion on Sunset Point to organize a recall. On May 13, manager Cheri Scobee's employment is terminated by the board of directors, and reported later that day on this blog, and the largest number of comments (33) were posted by residents from all over the country. New manager Dawn Simmons, with 25 years experience, takes the reins a few days later.

June 2011
When the recall ballots arrived by process server at the June board meeting, the president resigned. The results of the recall were 222 for and 31 against. Housekeeping in Regency Cove goes to a new level, sprucing up and painting. The boat storage yard finally receives electric power.

The Beast

July 2011
Father Bob Goodwin bids farewell to Regency Cove. Judy Webb resigns as editor of the Outlook. Employee Richard Gauss leaves Regency Cove for a position at Bright House. His position will not be refilled. The board voted 5 to 3 to approve the $590 permit fee for the kayak ramp on Pelican. No cars are allowed and no parking signs were installed at the turnaround. Hall improvements paid by the Friendship Club are beautiful.
The Beast and I become acquainted at the Cardinal Bernadine Cancer Center radiation dept. in Maywood IL for the next 7 1/2 weeks.

September 2011

Hurricane Irene has smashed and devastated the eastern coast. Folks at home up North are having a worse hurricane season than us down here in Florida. New signs appear on our waterfront. Residents are amazed and curious. Board member Elaine Belba resigns from the board due to her husband's ill health. Although the board has requested and received resumes from the shareholders to fill vacancies, the item is tabled.

Board at work

October 2011
A survey of residents' opinions is distributed in the October Outlook. One item of note was reducing the size of the board to seven. We still wait to hear the results.

November 2011

Pool repairs take a little longer than expected, but the stairs, railings, and a whole new surface completes the job. The spa gains its own entrance, an improvement long overdue.

2011 Christmas Decorators

December 2011

Budget meetings are efficiently completed. Commodore Chuck Paramore retires from the Yacht Club, Paul Dillon steps in. A new light appears on the cupola above the Sunset Point pavillion.
Tragedy strikes when fire destroys a home. The quick response of neighbors kept the fire from tragic consequences. Neighbors generously donate money, clothing, and items for their new accommodations.

Happy New Year!

Shriners Burn Center & Crippled Childrens hospitals

2011-12-26T15:38:00.002-05:00

THANK YOU.....THANK YOU......THANK YOU

For the many donations in 2011 of the snap tops from aluminum cans. Your donations to the Shrine organization contributed to 380 lbs collected in 2011. This will aid in the manufacture of MANY braces for the needy crippled children. Please drop off any large quantities at my home (10 Sunset), as believe it or not, some of these dissapear before I can get to them. Again, the Shriners thank you. Ed Bedore

A Different Christmas Poem

2011-12-23T15:13:00.000-05:00

~ Anonymous

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.

The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.

Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

'What are you doing?' I asked without fear,
'Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!'
For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts.

To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said 'Its really all right, I'm out here by choice.
I'm here every night.'
'It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.

No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at ' Pearl on a day in December,'
Then he sighed, 'That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers.'
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ' Nam ',
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue.... an American flag.
I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.

I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.'

'So go back inside,' he said, 'harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right.'
'But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
'Give you money,' I asked, 'or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son.'

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
'Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.'

Commodore Retires

2011-12-11T19:35:00.000-05:00

After two years of service as Regency Cove Yacht Club Commodore, Chuck Paramore retired last night handing the torch over to Paul Dillon. Tony Policelli will serve as his assistant, and Jean Wilson takes over as Treasurer. Good Luck folks, have a productive term.

Thanks to Chuck and Karen for a great two years.

New Light Atop the Pavillon

2011-12-08T22:35:00.000-05:00

Did anyone spot the new light on top of the Sunset Point pavilion tonight? Something brand new is now adorning our shelter. Go check it out.

Fire Victims

2011-12-08T22:28:00.002-05:00

I've been asked to report on Mike and Lucy Wishart, saying that aside from the total destruction of their home, both are doing well. President Dennis Kralick sent out an email asking for donations for the Wisharts, to get them through this difficult time.Bedding, clothing and food can be dropped off with Mike and Lucy at 7-28. The office has a donation fund if you care to kick in. This couple lost everything!

Please think about them this holiday season, and consider giving a nice gift of cash tucked into a Christmas card.

Fire Destroys Home

2011-12-08T09:42:00.000-05:00

Both of the inhabitants made it out safely, but the home at 5-37 is severely damaged. Neighbors provided immediate comfort and assistance to the couple until Tampa Fire and Rescue arrived, and later on the Police. The couple's golf cart was rescued. The couple was relocated in the park temporarily. Clothing donations began to arrive early last evening.

SNAP for Seniors

2011-12-03T16:17:00.000-05:00

Are you 60 years of age or older?

· Are you having trouble making ends meet?

· Could you use some help with your grocery bill?

· Do you live in Hillsborough, Manatee, Polk, Highlands or Hardee County?

If so, call the West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging Resource Center. We have a team of specialists who can help you complete the “SNAP” or “Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program” application over the phone. SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps) makes it easier than ever to apply for food assistance.

· No long paper applications to sift through

· No computer or computer skills needed

· Apply from the comfort of your home

If you would like assistance in applying for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), give us a call at:

800-96ELDER or 800-963-5337

Patricia Henderson, Community Services Coordinator
West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc.
hendersonp@elderaffairs.org
813-676-5609 / Fax 813-623-1342

Tampa Tribune

2011-11-29T11:37:00.000-05:00

To get a preview of the upcoming front page article about our Vets Book, click on the link below.

Go to TBO

If it doesn't work, leave a comment, and I'll try to fix it.

Christmas Decorators

2011-11-28T18:08:00.001-05:00

This was probably the 4th annual wine and cheese decorating celebration hosted by the Friendship Club. The hall looks festivelt beautiful. Thanks to all who helped.

Veterans Book

2011-11-27T07:19:00.002-05:00

The Tampa Tribune reports that there will be an article in the Monday paper about your upcoming Veterans of Regency Cove book. We are sure you will want a copy of this to put in your book. Watch for it. The book will be going into print soon, and delivery will be on our special day, January 15, Sunday, 2pm.

Regency Cove Veterans Book

2011-11-23T07:04:00.003-05:00

Mark your calenders. January 15, 2pm, 2012, Goodwin Hall. DO NOT MISS THIS. We will distribute the Veterans book that day, and hope to have a very exciting program, with some surprises. We have over 80 vets in this book, with their picture when they were in the service, and their experiences, written by them. Honor our vets by participating in this event. If you haven't ordered, or paid ($10.00, no profit), get in touch with Ed @839-6776 or Sandy@835-9098. We hope to have Media coverage.
A reporter from the Trib has already spent some time with us. Keep your eyes peeled for an article about our vets.

November 16 Board meeting

2011-11-16T17:05:00.004-05:00

Meeting was opened on time: 1pm..finished..3:30pm..after preliminaries, the Financial report was approved, all OK.
Managers report: Pool construction is done. The 4 sided home inspections are done, and mostly all look OK. Our closed circuit TV channel will be ready Dec. 2. Dawn is very happy with the board cooperation. Every one should bring your title to the office, so they can make a copy of it for your file. Very important. The resent survey taken...421 sent out, only 119 replies...please, reply ASAP.
Committe reports: They are looking for volunteers for opening and closing the pool...
Incident reporting: Tailgating and speeding still an issue. We may pay $35 per hour, 3 hour minimun, on selected days for unmarked police officers to patrol the park. They have the power to enforce speeding laws....fine $155.00 per ticket..this may solve our problem? To be talked further about.
Adopt budget: Final approvement by members in 30 days.
Release of accounting firm: Done...we are now on Quick Books
Payment of tax penalties: Board approved 1166.00 in penalties..see manager for details.
Start Procedure for revoke share: Done....no names given...this is a first for our park. This is against a shareholder who is "undesirable" and has not complied with our rules or requests. It was unimous, that we go ahead with it, with all present.
Capitol Improvements: would "like" to put in a horse-shoe pit...more umbrella tables...new pool furniture...2 new picnic tables...a new grill for Junglelandia, add a Bochi Ball pit....
Lawn Car: Botanical Dimensions will have new contract...all in agreement.
January and February Board Dates: January 7, 10AM February 8, 1pm

Town Hall Notes

2011-11-14T09:52:00.002-05:00

For other people who, like me, were unable to attend the latest Town Hall meeting, Ed and Dee were kind enough to keep minutes for us.

MINUTES FOR 11/12/11 TOWN HALL MEETING

The Meeting started at 10am with approximately 70 in attendance.

Brighthouse with discussion of closed circuit This will be active on December lst on either Channel 95 or 96. If you have problems, call Brighthouse.

2. Discussion on the condition of the medical equipment in the office, and the defibrillator and how to use it. This unit is automatically checked and is OK..instructions are verbal when opening.

3. DNR forms: This is the form you must fill out re: resucitating.. do you

Want to be helped or not…office will supply and laminate for

You.

4. Is the sign out front on the “to do list”?

Dawn has much planned to beautify the park. Entrance sign included.

5. Re-instate the maintenance of the uniforms.

The board will look into this.

6. With Richard not being replaced – reverse pay cut.

There was no pay cut..just no increase. Board will look into this.

7. No town hall meeting for December. There will be a special board meeting on the budget only.

OTHER ITEMS TALKED ABOUT, NOT ON THE AGENDA

The parking problem will be completely re-visited.

Rules that cannot be enforced will probably be dropped, except speeding?

There are now 5 openings for the board.

Bi-fold walls for the hall…..opinion of the majority was NO.

Blvd 3 near Canal, eyesore home…being investigated.

Capital Improvements possible…picnic tables on Pelican Point, new pool furniture….re-web some present pool furniture…add horseshoe pits where unused shuffleboard courts are…also add bocce ball court?

Website needs to be updated periodically.

Note: There were two website administrators prior to this summer. Board Minutes and activity schedules, houses for sale, etc. were all up to date. The chief web administrator (Cheri) was fired by the board. The other web administrator (me) stopped updating the site from that moment on. This community needs tech savvy residents for Communications. Any volunteers out there?

PS Watch out for flying horseshoes....

Pools Repairs Are (Almost) Done!

2011-11-02T17:13:00.000-04:00

The pool repairs are almost finished!

Water is being pumped into the empty white shell at this very minute. The pool received a new white surface, new stairs, and new tile trim. It looks beautiful, and very very clean. Two handrails will go on tonight.

The reconditioned tables look almost new, and await placement on the deck area. It sure will be a treat to dip our toes into the water!

Smoke over Regency Cove

2011-10-25T19:46:00.000-04:00

Tampa Fire Rescue firefighters have contained what earlier today was a raging fire at a scrap metal and recycling business at the Port of Tampa.
The fire was reported at about 3:30 p.m. today at Trademark Metals Recycling, 4201 Maritime Blvd., Tampa.
No one was injured in the blaze.
The fire started in a pile of household machinery and appliances which is about 2 1/2 stories high and the length of a football field, said Capt. Lonnie Benniefield, a fire department spokesman. The pile of metal ultimately was going to be transferred to a shredder, he said.
It is unknown exactly how or where the fire began. Benniefield speculates it started in the middle of the pile.
Large plumes of smoke from the blaze can be seen throughout much of the Tampa Bay area. Smoke is drifting over Davis Islands and Hillsborough Bay.
The fire department hasn't issued safety or hazardous warnings. Benniefield cautioned that no one should stand in an area where they can inhale the smoke.
The cause of the fire is considered accidental, Bennefield said.
"When you are moving piles of metal, they touch and there could be a spark," he said. "This is not uncommon for this to happen."
It isn't known how long it will take firefighters to put out the fire. It might take days, Benniefield said.
In November 2007, a large fire broke out at Trademark Metals, in an area where scrap metal was piled. Like today's fire, that fire caused a plume of smoke that could be seen for miles.
Stay with TBO.com for updates.

Oct Board Meeting Notes

2011-10-21T11:37:00.000-04:00

Forty-three residents were in attendance when the meeting opened. During the committee reports, Ron Jeffries announced that it was legal for any resident to fish off any HORC dock, a numbered dock. Please don't trespass on the private docks.
Manager Dawn Simmons gave a thorough report. We are in the first phase of our recycling program. A company in St. Pete is paying us for our stuff, but restrictions apply. The newspaper bin is for NEWSPAPER ONLY. Glass is white only, no colored glass. Curb service for recycles will begin on Nov 1, 2011. Please find an appropriate bin for glass, plastic and newspaper.
Nov 9 2011 - Regency Cove Junk Day. Put everything curbside for pickup.
Nov 14 2011 - Four side home inspections will begin. No junk is allowed around your home.
Pool repair delays have occurred. Pool may open Monday.
Bright House will soon provide to its customers a designated community TV channel for FREE. They plan to send a rep to the next town hall meeting to sign up new customers.
The Board approved a new credit card for Office expenses, with a $1500 limit before board approval is needed.
A motion was made and approved to begin the replacement of apartment windows. New doors will follow. The lowest bid was not accepted.
Three new bids for lawn and tree care have been received. The manager is dissatisfied with the current company. Item was tabled.
Old Business
The residents who use the Pelican Point kayak ramp requested car access to the Point. President Kralick offered unloading only privileges, but the group refused to negotiate.
Please be specific when filling out Incident Reports. Document time, date, vehicle description, tag number, person/s involved, and behaviors.
Property on B5, formerly owned by Mr. Lindenberg,was not sold on the court house steps, and has reverted back to park.
The board attorney will be present at the November board meeting.
The final item of business involved the purchase of a new financial program, Quick Books, to bring the finances back to the Office. Jerry Sullivan will return as our accountant, and folks with questions about their payments will be handled immediately by our staff. The current company is slow to respond to questions or other issues.

Town Hall Meeting Today

2011-10-08T16:41:00.001-04:00

Five residents sat at the table in front of the Town Hall Meeting this morning: Ellen Nimon, Ron Herb, Pat Hecker, Diane Woods, and Rosemary Mann. Ron opened the meeting with a prayer and recognized the couples newly returned to the park. He announced that the coffee and donuts were provided by Lisa Wheaton of the Barefoot Realty Group. The following represents some tidbits of the meeting:
The Town Hall meetings are held to insure transparency and to keep communication alive. Residents have concerns about the board meetings, i.e. the routine waiving of the minutes at meetings, financial reports could be more detailed by describing the financial activities. Another concern is how are board conclusions are arrived at, because of the volume of emailing among board members.
Pat continued by questioning the use of a proxy to select a board member at the last board meeting, and cited the section in our documents prohibiting this very thing. The president Dennis Kralick was available for comment and said that the board was unaware of the resignation and the proxy before the meeting started. Why are some board members so secretive that they can't even share among themselves?
Residents were encouraged to read our documents. Whether you have a gray book or a blue book, they are our governing documents and are, by law, required for inspection before the sale of every unit. The seller should be held liable for providing the buyer with the documents, not the board and not the manager. If you don't have them, buy them. R&Rs should also be provided for inspection before the sale.
On Respect-
Residents are discouraged from booing at board meetings. Conversely, board members are encouraged to listen to the residents and show equal respect. Workshops and Town Hall meetings will be used to promote open discussion after the agendas are posted. The agenda lately has been posted on the website.
On The Survey-
Support was overwhelming in favor of the recently distributed survey. Not every item was favorable i.e. equal maintenance fees. There was discussion on the size of the board, and the feeling I got is that the folks in charge are looking forward to a 7 man board. Many opinions were voiced.
On Parking and Motorcycles-
A committee has been formed to study the issue. Again. The motorcycle rule was omitted in a very sneaky way, when the board approved the rules that were written by a very secretive president. Rule changes have historically been presented to the people with bold print and strike-throughs.These were not. Let's see how this shakes out.
On double lots-
Equitable maintenance fees, taxes, and sale of partial lots were discussed and will become future agenda items. Although one past board member admitted to promoting the idea years ago, no one person is to blame. Its a park issue that arose during the Ron Herb administration, was turned over immediately to our attorney, and needs to be resolved quickly.
More than two people in a home-
Please refer to section C of our documents, in the Master Occupancy Agreements, Article Four. You can't get any clearer than that.
The 2 Year Rental Rule-
I happened to be on the board when that was changed, and it was understood then that the change was only temporary. Its time to discuss this again. Another future agenda item.
The Canadian Flag-
Fly it or not? Most people said to leave it alone.
The next board meeting is Oct. 19 at 1:00. After that, Nov 16, with the agenda posted around the 6th. The next Town Hall is scheduled for Nov 12.
First Friendship Club dinner Oct 17.
First Yacht Club Dance is Oct. 22.

This was a good meeting. We've had good Town Hall meetings in the past. Let's hope this movement stays alive and strong, and that the board listens to the residents.

Town Hall Meeting

2011-10-05T11:56:00.002-04:00

A Town Hall Meeting is scheduled for this Saturday at 10:00 am. Come to listen. Bring your concerns.

Just a thought... please complete the Surveys that were included in October's newsletter. The manager is interested in your comments and ideas. If you're still up north, mail them back to the office.

Can You Identify?

2011-10-05T11:11:00.000-04:00

As in all organizations involving the transfer of information, small glitches occasionally occur. One such glitch is the crashing of the hard drive which contained the contents of the veteran's memories and all their photos.We are in the process of recovering the information from the printed copies we have, and hope that our program will still be held in January 2012.

We have a photo, but can't identify the soldier. Can someone please comment below if you have any ideas. The words "England 1943" appear on the back of the photo.

Who is this man?

Tai Chi Class

2011-10-05T10:58:00.000-04:00

Jan Platt Library will hold FREE Tai Chi exercise classes every Fri 1-2 pm.

This is a great class for everyone. It highlights deep breathing and gentle movements.

It will benefit those with balance problems, wheelchair bound, and those who just HATE

the very thought of exercise.

The teacher is Bonnie Thomas Birdsall, well known for her work in Assisted Living facilities including Grand Court. Resident Mary Lou Mittel has volunteered to drive a few on a first come-first served basis. Contact her directly, her name can in found in the residents' directory.

Thanks, Mary Lou!

Platt Bridge Closes Monday

2011-09-30T09:22:00.001-04:00

The 85 year old drawbridge, which carries thousands of motorists daily into downtown Tampa, will close Monday. It is scheduled to be reopened in January 2012.

The 518 foot bridge, built by the same firm that created the Golden Gate Bridge, was given historic status five years ago. All the gears and motors have been custom machined and are ready for use in this $13.8 million rehab job. The new bridge will be an exact copy of the former.

Traffic snags are expected. We are advised to use the Lee Roy Selmon instead of Bayshore Blvd for trips downtown. Northbound Bayshore Blvd. will be closed at Swann Avenue. You are advised to add extra time to your trips downtown.

source: TBT 9/28/11

Bayside West Meeting Oct 10

2011-09-30T08:33:00.000-04:00

The Bayside West Neighborhood Association and the Guernsey Estates Crime Watch will meet at Regency

Cove on Monday October 10, 2011 at 7pm.

Representatives of the Tampa Police Department will be there to discuss any problems in the neighborhood.

Fire Chief Tom Forward and Operations Chief Scott Ehlers will be at the meeting to give a presentation about the Tampa Fire and Rescue Department.

City Councilman Harry Cohen, our district, will speak and answer questions about the latest happenings in Tampa and at City Council.

Article Pulled

2011-09-28T15:15:00.000-04:00

On August 31, a post was written describing a newspaper problem which was uncovered that day. Someone was picking up newspapers from homes around the park. The article was presented in a tongue-in-cheek manner, describing ridiculous scenarios for the disappearing newspapers. No accusations were made, and no one person was ever identified on this blog as the "culprit".

Some residents apparently have issues discerning fact from fiction and have created their own spin on this situation. Without wishing to create any more drama or make further explanations, I have deleted the post and all of the comments with it. I am sorry if any resident has been been unwittingly fingered and mistreated by any individuals who misunderstood that post.

Don't Read The Blooooog!

2011-09-20T03:44:00.000-04:00

I really have to thank my dear friends (who love and have spent nearly a decade of their lives serving this community) for the information to keep this internet discourse going while I was involved in treatments in an attempt to remain on this planet for a few years longer. There are so many people in this wonderful community who have volunteered on committees, club boards, or the association Board of Directors of Regency Cove. Its good to hear feedback from experienced residents.

I also love hearing from the faithful blog followers, some of you I barely know, but you send your comments and letters of encouragement to keep the information coming to your homes all over the country. Communication has ALWAYS been a primary concern with the residents of this park. Communication was the primary shareholder concern 3 to 5 years ago, while I served on the Board, as Communication chair. This blog was initiated in an attempt to produce a method of immediate communication with all the shareholders in the event of a catastrophe. This blog has never been particularly welcomed by any of the 5 presidents serving during our existence. This blog has been brought before the association attorney twice, that I'm aware of. Each time I have readily made the changes requested by the attorney to dissociate this blog from the association.

Our president doesn't like my bloooooog. He has asked the residents not to read it. I agree with him completely. If you can't handle sarcasm, or a tongue-in-cheek post about a phantom newspaper raider, for God's sake, please don't come here. Read the wonderful Outlook.There is much wonderful and timely information.

If our Board would get onboard and begin their own immediate communication avenue (their OWN blog), I might be happy to close this blog down. But on the other hand, someone has to point out the problems and irregularities.

We recently paid over $1700 to secure that 8 foot stretch of slippery slimey kayak ramp built illegally by a few residents at Pelican Point. The property does not belong to us. How are we insuring this little strip of slimey land, that doesn't belong to us? If we don't insure our beach, how do we insure an illegal kayak ramp?

By law, any changes to our common grounds require a vote of the shareholders. BIG PROBLEM! I see why Dennis doesn't want anyone to read the BLOOOOOG.

Historically, the Board has controlled repetitive seasonal rentals when there are many homes for sale in the park. When questioned by a shareholder at the meeting, one board member loudly defended the current open rental policy for the folks who have multiple investment properties. I have a problem with this. The majority of shareholders are NOT multiple owners. The board should be representing the majority of shareholders, not the handful who own multiple shares. The Board should do everything possible for the average shareholder to get the most for his investment.

BOD meeting 9/17/11

2011-09-17T12:32:00.002-04:00

The meeting opened promptly at 10am with 89 people in attendance. It was a long meeting, not ending until 1:30pm. Elaine Belba resigned from the board because of her husbands physical problems, otherwise all 7 board members were present. After the Call to Order, Pledge of Allegiance, and silent prayer for Sept.11 incident, the board elected Dennis Kralick President, appointed Susan Dunphy temporary Secretary. Wes Rice, Parker Kimball, and R. Siddens ran for one of the other vacant seats. There was discussion, and that position is tabled till the next meeting. The board will be asking for more people to run for the openings. Minutes of July 20th meeting were approved and finnancial report was given by Reis. The subject of a new book keeping system was tabled till next meeting. Tim Reynolds and Warren Mansfield resigned from the infrastructure committee and were praised for their efforts. The Kayak launching area brought some discomfort as the cost to the park was over $1700.00. Because of the economy it was voted to lower the monthly cost for an upstairs apartment to $725.00, and a lower to $750.00. Some of the way some subject matter, on the "Blog" was presented was critizied and our President suggested that we don't read the "Blog", and discontinued the link from our website to the Blog. The no swimming signs brought alot of talk from the residents, and our manager will go back to the insurance company, to try to get the subject clearer. After all, for the same reason, shouldn't a sign by put at our swimming pool?????? More to come on this subject later. Our managers contract was approved by all board members with the exception of Paul McCumber. Having an "open house" weekend was discussed,and tabled. They wish to add a section for Home Sales to the website. $8/10 to list with 4 pictures and write-up.

Visiting an Illinois Museum

2011-09-13T14:10:00.001-04:00

We had the opportunity on September 11 to visit a Fall Harvest Fest in the Chicago suburb of Wood Dale, just west of the city. There is an interesting museum contained in an old farm house from the 1800s in its original location. The site boasts a few acres of land, a stately 3 story home, an old barn with a silo, and the tiny little home which was the original farm house on that property. Residents dressed in vintage clothing sheared sheep, spun wool, and discussed Indian arrow heads found in the vicinity.


Mary Lou Mittel stands beside Yesterday's Farm Museum.

It may interest you to know, that Regency Cove resident Mary Lou Mittel spearheaded this historical project some 40 years ago. She convinced the family to donate their home to start the first ever Wood Dale Historical Society. Mary Lou served as curator for many years, constantly seeking donations to bring her dream to fruition.

Wood Dale residents have donated everything to Yesterday's Farm Museum. There's a room full of old typewriters and cameras, living and dining rooms, second story bedrooms and porch filled with memorabilia donated from residents of the town and area. The kitchen is as charming as it is authentic to the turn of century Midwest location.

This sentimental day was a difficult one for me and many other Americans as well. The Sunday sermon highlighted Forgiveness. My heart isn't quite ready to forgive the act of war that ended so many lives ten years ago. I can't stomach those who believe that the tragedy was actually the result of America's mistakes. I will not run out and volunteer for service as our president requested. I couldn't even find the words to write a post for that day. I chose instead to spend the day visiting a symbol of America's past built from hard-working, God-fearing, patriotic and generous people of our country.

New Waterfront Policy?

2011-09-10T14:05:00.000-04:00

People are amazed at the new sign that showed up on our waterfront the other day. I think most of the board members were pretty surprised too!

Just imagine... a waterfront community, with several sets of stairs going down into the bay, putting up signs to keep the residents and their guests out of the water!

Who is enforcing this rule? What exactly is "swimming"? Is wading allowed? What are the stairs for?

President Dennis Kralick explained that the new association insurance stongly urged that the sign be installed. Liability.
When asked for further comment, Dennis explained that the policy is now "Swim at your own risk". That's what the sign should say. As waterfront residents, we've always gone into the water at our own risk. Feet cut open by a razor sharp shells --- own own risk.Stepping on a buried treble hook lure--- our own risk. Our responsibility.

Are people really that obsessed with greed and revenge that they might actually sue our lovely association? Of course they are! What's wrong with me?! I have been been threatened with lawyers and lawsuits just for reporting the happenings in the park. Just look at someone wrong, and they're threatening to call their lawyer. Enforce the rules? Some people cuss and gesture, and threaten to take you to court.

We were told by our attorney many times "Do not make rules you can't enforce". I believe there needs to be further discussion from the board or the manager. If you want people to swim at their own risk, please say so. I agree with you.

A Word About Irene

2011-09-02T14:23:00.001-04:00

Power is finally being restored to our friends and neighbors up north. We're glad to have you back. I talked to a friend in New York yesterday who was cleaning out her freezers and throwing away all the wasted food. Instead of cooking it up when the power went off, she kept the freezer closed in hopes of saving it. No such luck.
We've sat in awe watching on TV the force of the storms and floods you've endured as tropical storm Irene devastated New England. Wowee, the damage is unbelievable! We hope you're all safe and dry, your lives are back in order, and you hurry back to Florida where, for now, we're safe. Keep in touch, and let us know how you're doing.

More on the Gandy Extension

2011-08-26T20:34:00.000-04:00

By Rich Shopes, Times Correspondent
In Print: Tuesday, August 23, 2011

TAMPA — The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority hasn't committed to a bridge linking the Lee Roy Selmon Crosstown Expressway to the Gandy Bridge, but that isn't stopping its opponents.

The project, they say, would divide South Tampa and destroy businesses on Gandy Boulevard.

"To me, there is nothing good from having a business under a bridge," said Mark Rubio, a South Tampa resident and commercial property owner. "Businesses just don't grow under bridges."

The authority earlier this month approved a study required to build the two-lane bridge but says it hasn't decided whether to move forward on the $130 million project to connect St. Petersburg to downtown Tampa, Brandon and Interstate 75.

Currently, drivers exiting the bridge have to drive about 2 miles east on Gandy Boulevard to reach the expressway's entrance at S Dale Mabry Highway. Business owners say a bridge to bypass Gandy Boulevard would mean losing thousands of drive-by customers and could separate them from customers north and south of Gandy. Others say it would destroy neighborhoods by creating a noisy barrier.

In a concession to residents and business owners who spoke against the plan, the authority's board called for a study to gauge attitudes toward the proposal.

Joe Waggoner, the expressway's executive director, said he will report back to the board in September about the scope and nature of that study.

If the authority moves forward, it will also need to complete a traffic and economic analysis to show lenders that the project would succeed.

Meanwhile, opponents say they've turned in 1,500 signatures of people against the plan and that they're trying to set up a meeting this week or next to decide on a strategy. Residents and business owners have been fighting the idea since it was introduced in 2008.

Al Steenson, president of the Gandy/Sun Bay South Civic Association, argues the authority should respect community concerns and that the agency's studies three years ago don't reflect current traffic levels or economic conditions.

The project would further hurt businesses by cutting drive-by traffic, he added.

"You put a 30-foot high elevated road down Gandy Boulevard and you will destroy this neighborhood," Steenson said.

"Most of the business here will go under," said Mikael Eskildsen, owner of Scan Design, a furniture store on Gandy Boulevard. "Everybody here has drive-by business: gas stations, liquor stores and banks. People stop here and do their shopping. But with this bridge, there won't be any off ramps. Forget it. They're going to be gone."

The authority estimates that traffic on Gandy will swell to about 48,100 cars a day by 2015, up from about 45,000 now. If the bridge is built, traffic on Gandy will drop to about 36,200 cars. Some 19,000 vehicles will take the new bridge, including drivers who otherwise would have used the Howard Frankland Bridge.

Tolls are estimated at 25 cents to 50 cents and would be collected electronically through Sunpass or the expressway's high-speed camera system.

[Last modified: Aug 22, 2011 11:50 PM]

Citizens Insurance

2011-08-23T09:02:00.003-04:00

Citizens Insurance has notified some in our park that they will not renew thier home policy. In most cases, its because of the roof being over 25 years old. Should this happen to you, call AMS at 1-800-282-3572 and ask for Joe. They will come in, take 2 color photos, inspect the roof and send the form to Citizens. Cost is $45.00. The reason for this blog is that there are some companies that are asking 125.00 for the same service. Don't be taken. Dee Bedore

Brown Recluse Found

2011-08-21T02:24:00.000-04:00

Today I got a phone call from the resident who found the brown recluse spider near his front door. Asked to warn everybody, and just refresh your memories. Here is the photo. They like to hide in clothes.These are the ones who have the violin on their backs.

Town Hall Meeting 8/20/11 10am

2011-08-20T13:44:00.005-04:00

The recorded meeting was opened with a prayer by Ron Herb. Dennis Kralick then presided over the meeting of 4 board members and 60 residents. The unsightly mess at Georgetown will be addressed. Over 1/2 hour was covered on Parking, and suggestions will be referred to the Board. We will not replace the loss of one of our maintenance men. The West Shore gate will be open from 7am-3pm while waiting for parts to repair.

Interested parties wishing to be a board member were requested to submit their resumes, as it it will be discussed at next meeting on Sept.17. Outlook will be outsourced at NO CHARGE to the shareholder. To submit an article, email it to patti@regencycove.com Patti Fennessy.

Dawn, our manager is now permanent, which met with a large response of applause. Our new hall renovation is absolutely beautiful, and cost was donated by the Friendship Club. Pats on the back were given to Sandy Ross and her committees re: almost $8000.00 obtained in grants. The new park benches and swings being finished now.

The meeting was run extremely well by Ron Herb and Dennis Kralick.Meeting adjourned at 11:30am.

Westshore Gate Under Repair

2011-08-19T16:59:00.000-04:00

The Westshore Gate will be open from 7am to 3pm daily until repaired.... We are still awaiting parts....

Dennis W. Kralick

Editors note:

As always, please keep your eyes peeled for suspicious persons or activities in the park. If you see anything unusual, please call the police.

ARMED SERVICE VETERANS OF REGENCY COVE

2011-08-14T11:00:00.003-04:00

Good Morning All..As most of you know, Sandy Ross and I have started a project about our Veterans here in the park. Its turning out to be a daunting task, however, we have about 70 finished, most all with their early photos. Our biggest concern is that we DO NOT want to leave anyone out of the book. There are 10 of you who we are waiting for your photos and about 9 who still have to be interviewed. There may be even some we don't know about?? Please, we need your help if you are one of those, as we want this to be finished for presentation perhaps in January. Sandy won't be back here till Sept. so time is getting to be of the essence! Call Ed 813-839-6776, or email saltydg@aol.com with any help you can offer. Thanks................Ed Bedore

A meeting will be held tomorrow with a reporter from the St.Pete Times Re: our project. They seem to be very interested.

Grant Money

2011-08-09T14:35:00.000-04:00

Regency Cove received a check today for $2491 to repay the expenses for buying the 6 benches around the hall, the 9 cement benches on the waterfront, and the 2 new swings to hang under the pavillion.There were three funding agencies responsible for these funds: The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, the Hillsborough County Children's Fund, and the Frank E Duckwall Foundation. Once again, the residents of Regency Cove thank these agencies for their generosity, and all the volunteers who contributed to the benches and plaques.

Investment Advice

2011-08-09T14:26:00.002-04:00

If you had purchased $1,000 of shares in Delta Airlines one year ago, you would have $49.00 today!

If you had purchased $1,000 of shares in AIG one year ago, you would have $33.00 today.

If you had purchased $1,000 of shares in Lehman Brothers one year ago, you would have $0.00 today.

But, if you had purchased $1,000 worth of beer one year ago, drank all the beer, then turned in the aluminum cans for the recycling refund, you would have received $214.00.

Based on the above, the best current investment plan is to drink heavily and recycle.

It is called the 401-Keg.

And as a bonus...

A recent study found that the average American walks about 900 miles a year. Another study found that on average Americans drink 22 gallons of alcohol a year. That means that the average American gets about 41 miles to the gallon!

Makes you damned proud to be an American!

Editor's Note: Don't hold me to the authenticity of the dollar amounts. Economic variables in today's market are highly unstable.

No August Board Meeting

2011-08-06T12:47:00.000-04:00

I don't believe that there is a board meeting scheduled for this month. Time off to relax! It might be entertaining to tell our directors what we think are the issues to put on the agenda for September. Residents, what do you think? Maybe there is one or two who might be interested in your thoughts.

Gandy Overhead

2011-08-06T12:44:00.000-04:00

An email sent out by Dennis Kralick Friday evening indicated that the Gandy Elevated has been taken off the THEA calendar for a year. There will be no state or federal money for this project. Thank you Dennis and Elaine for taking the time to sit down with Commissioner Murman. Its good to know our BOD is actively engaged in community affairs that impact our home investments.

We need to brush up on communications in the upcoming year, because this topic will no no doubt resurface again next year.

Gandy Elevated- A Concern Again

2011-07-31T14:04:00.000-04:00

We have learned from Sandra Murman, our county commissioner, that the Gandy elevated project has been put on the agenda for the next Metropolitan Planning Org. meeting. The demon has reared its ugly head again.
Ms. Murman has planned to meet with local residents at the Platt library on August 5 to discuss topics of interest. Our association president, Dennis Kralick, has agreed to work closely with the Bayside West neighborhood association president Jerry Frankhouser to spread the word of our opposition to this project. It is so nice to once again have a board president interested in community affairs. Dennis will share our concerns with Ms. Murman. If you are in the neighborhood, stop in and speak with her too.
The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) once agreed to honor the wishes of the local businesses and residents. We made our objections to the Gandy overpass loud and clear and THEA took the project temporarily off the burner.

On Monday, August 8 at 1:30 pm, the Board of Directors of the Expressway Authority will meet to discuss the Gandy State Environmental Impact Report (SEIR). The Board meeting will be held at 1104 East Twiggs Street, First Floor, Tampa, FL 33602. During this meeting the study process, community involvement objectives and outcomes, and the study’s suggested preferred alternative will be presented to the Board. The Board will be asked to accept the SEIR document. Board acceptance of the study does not mean that the Board is adopting the project or deciding to move forward with implementation.

In the past we have had just a few representatives from Regency Cove. If you plan to attend, please note that you may park in the fenced Authority lot or under the Selmon Expressway. There will be signs designating the parking area. Public input is limited to three minutes per person. Please prepare your remarks accordingly.

If you cannot attend, please write your objections to the Gandy overpass in an email. You can send it to the president, in care of the Office. For all who are interested in the value of your property, we need to voice our opposition to this ghastly project.

Norway in Sorrow

2011-07-29T12:07:00.001-04:00

This just arrived from Finn:

A week ago today we were informed about a heavy explosion in what is known as the Government Quarter in Oslo. The possibility of a gas leak was mentioned but when we got the pictures on TV we all thought of an Al Quaida attack and a tremendous bomb blast. Soon experts disregarded Al Quaida. This did not have "their mark". Fortunately it happened late Friday in a vacation period. Relatively few people were in the departmental offices And the Prime minister was at his residence.

An hour or so later we were informed of shooting at Utoya (the outer island) where the Labour Party has conducted their summer camps for decades. Here were now six hundred youngsters and a few adults to assist them. Our former prime minster Gro Harlem Brundtland had given a speech at the camp two hours earlier.

We soon heard that the police had identified the person responsible for both the bomb and the shootings. He was ethnic norwegian and my reaction was that, as bad as it was, at least he was one of our own and not one of our new fellow citizens. After he was apprehended by the terror troop, the police reported that ten persons were killed at the camp and six at the government offices.

The next morning we were informed that the number of victims were increased to 80 plus. In addition several critically ill were at the hospital. Today we hear that the critically injured most likely will make it. Also, it turned out that in the chaos counting of the dead was a little off. So what?

After this happening we have seen an unbelivable participation in the mourning by people all of the country. Outside City Hall in Oslo there were 200,000 persons with roses in their hands listening to the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince and several others. The main theme was to avoid hate and fright and to keep our open society the way it is. Our police walks in the streets without weapons and they will continue to do so.

Breivik is now in max security prison and will remain there for a long time to come. Death penalty is out in Europe and most of us agree with that. Max legal penalty is 21 years or 30 if the crime has been socall «against humanity». Thereafter he may be kept in an insitution for mentally ill. Hardly will he ever walk streets again.

Our muslims were scared to death that it was one of theirs». It turned out to be an ultra extreme far right politically person. They are in any country. Difficult to protect against. Nobody had ever heard of this man. A goodlooking fellow with nice manners.

Foreign journalists have criticised that we were not prepared for such an incident. We did not have a helicopter ready to bring the terror troops into action. The police boat that took them to the island had motor trouble. As the prime minister said.....we should remain an open society but would not have to be naive.

These gruesome happenings from last Friday have brought as all together here ..... like you wouldn't believe. Soon we will be back to everyday life but history is there. All the hundreds of thousands of flowers shall be collected and composted into earth and later used to create a site for reminiscence, for remembering the young, 14 and up to sixty that died in this unbelievable massacre.

For Berit and myself it has been a week full of questions and TV and tears. We did not know any of the victims. We did not vote with the Labour Party, but politics are put aside. We have seen people hug each other and cry over the tremendous loss. We can so well understand the sorrow, being a parent or not.

When we see what one man's hate can do, think of what the love all these people can do.

Thanks for sending mails and for calls from far and near.

Board Meeting Highlights

2011-07-22T00:31:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday July 20, 2011, the Board of Directors met. Those in actual attendance were Dennis Kralick, Dennis Hayes, Chet Hindman, Patti Fennessy, and Elaine Belba. There were some telephone problems, but on conference call were Susan, Paul and Rose. Here are the highlights as reported to me:
The boat storage yard finally has electricity. Blacktop paving repairs will be made for this area and other locations around the park and at our main entrance.
The maintenance crew has been painting the curbs and curb stops, and the sidewalk around the clubhouse.
The fire alarms in the apartments have been repaired, and additional improvements are in the works.
The board has received three bids for the pool repair, but none have as yet been accepted. I believe that some investigation is being done on references and such.
The topic of the kayak ramp was once again discussed. Apparently the ramp is not on our property, and is under the auspices of Port of Tampa. As was reported to me, a permit may be issued for $590 for our use. The BOD voted 5 to 3 in favor of accepting the cost. Absolutely no cars will be allowed on Pelican Point or at the turnaround. No Parking signs are now (finally) posted in the area.
The Board has announced Father Bob Day at Regency Cove on Sunday July 24. Send your greetings and best wishes soon.
With a split decision, the board has voted for a new attorney... David Luczak. So long Ellen De Haan!

Although not announced at the board meeting, our employee Richard Gauss recently resigned and is now working for Brighthouse. At today's meeting. the board read the resignation letter of Outlook editor Judy Webb. This letter has been posted in the Information Room for several days. Apparently Judy is rather disgusted that the residents of Regency Cove exercised their legal rights by recalling a board member. Apparently its hard to embrace Democratic principles that are not in your favor. No final word has been given yet on the future of the newsletter. Stay tuned.
The topic of the Recall Ballots was discussed by the board. It was put into the minutes of this meeting that the Recall packet delivered at the last Board Meeting to director Dennis Kralick was retrieved by resident Pat Hecker shortly after the verbal resignation of the recalled president. Director McCumber spoke against this action, and asked that the Board get a legal determination. Apparently there was a lot of discussion on this issue. I wasn't there, so I won't comment further.
Two apartments are available, and the Board sanctioned a $100 Finder's Fee to the resident who recommends a new resident who actually moves in.
Chet requested that any resident reporting an incident to the Office records the actual date and time of the incident. Its extremely difficult to review days and hours of video surveillance. When reporting an incident, be very thorough in your data, recording the actual time if possible.
There is a vacancy on our BOD, but the Board is in no hurry to fill the vacancy. Dennis Kralick suggested that interested persons submit a resume to the board for consideration. Apparently this was met with some resistance from several board members, because it has never been required in the past. Heck, why not? If you feel you have the qualifications to serve on the BOD, send a resume to the BOD, in care of Dennis Kralick.
The topic of Parking was discussed. Residents are upset that they cannot park in the usual places as in the past. Drastic changes occurred throughout the community without any feedback from the shareholders. The rules of the park were modified, and the use of the common grounds was altered to benefit a few and not the majority. Our Directors need to listen to the shareholders on this topic. Please comment if you have a concern about parking. Does anyone know why this rule was altered?
That's it! It was a long board meeting, so I heard. Please leave your feedback, so our Directors know your thoughts.

Thanks to my

Father Bob Goodwin Leaves Regency Cove

2011-07-09T21:30:00.000-04:00

Father Bob Goodwin is retiring from service. St. Patrick's Church honors this icon tomorrow after the 11:00 am Mass. The send-off is scheduled from 12:00 to 3:00pm in the school hall tomorrow. Thanks to Joe Marchitto for this information.
Father Bob Goodwin, a Regency Cove resident for 21 years, has sold his home and is moving to his diocese in Manchester, New Hampshire. I spoke with him tonight, and he is looking forward to the care he needs at this time in life.
I regret that I can't be there to give a final hug to the man who was my next door neighbor. Father Bob was a primary player in the history of Regency Cove. He served on the Regency Cove Board of Directors for more than a decade in various positions. For years he performed in our Talent Shows. Father Bob is by all means, a legend in Regency Cove.
I hope that our community chooses to honor this wonderful legend before he disappears in the beginning of August.

New Grants Available

2011-07-08T12:00:00.000-04:00

Anyone interested in writing the next grant to help improve our community (new pool furniture, library supplies, beautification, etc), please see below:

Good News!!!

The 2012 Neighborhood Mini-grants will be available on-line at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/onr on Monday June 27, 2011. Please note*** Since I am now the only staff in Neighborhood Relations (due to major budget short falls the office will continue to have only one staff person) there will be no orientation meetings held in the communities.
I have arranged for an on-line orientation training that is "Mandatory". There has been changes made to the application, such as submittal and deadline changes, what can be purchased, etc. Viewing of the video is "mandatory for everyone", no application will be accepted without the form at the end of the video viewing. We are accepting applications for the 2012 Neighborhood Mini-grant until August 12, 2011, however, we will not know if the grants are funded until the Hillsborough County Budget has been approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
Application deadlines have been shortened this year, so be sure to complete the application ASAP!!

Wanda Sloan
Office of Neighborhood Relations
Hillsborough County

Westbound Kennedy Ave Closed Tonight

2011-07-08T11:34:00.000-04:00

Westbound Kennedy Boulevard Will be Closed Starting at 9 p.m. Tonight

Between Himes Avenue and Dale Mabry Boulevard

TAMPA, FL (July 7, 2011) All lanes of westbound Kennedy Boulevard will be

closed between Himes Avenue and Dale Mabry Boulevard starting at 9 p.m. tonight

to allow City of Tampa Water Department crews to repair a damaged water main.

Traffic approaching that location will be rerouted.

Repairs and road surface restoration are expected to be completed on Friday,

July 8, by 3:30 p.m., depending on weather conditions. Barricades and signs will

be located in the area to assist with traffic flow. Drivers should seek

alternate routes during this period. Please use caution when traveling in the

area.

The staff and crews of the Tampa Water Department appreciate everyones patience

during this time.

Tampa Water Department serves a 211-square mile area with a service population

of approximately 560,000 people. The Tampa Water Departments mission is to

provide superior drinking water and reclaimed water services to its customers.

Happy Independence Day

2011-07-02T11:13:00.000-04:00

Its the start of the best holiday of the summer. I am heading up to Wisconsin's North woods, and will be out of commission. Have a safe and happy holiday. Regency Cove, enjoy your picnic, and please show appreciation to the planners and workers.

No comments will be moderated until further notice.

saving water

2011-06-26T07:43:00.003-04:00

We all have heat pumps, or air conditioners. They all expel water each day, and in most cases, it just drips in one place on your lot. I get 5 gallons of water EVERY day, which goes into a 5 gallon pail, which I then distribute to my plants. Can you imagine the water and money our park would save if we all did this ? Give it a try. Thanks....Salty Dog

Town Hall a Success

2011-06-25T22:33:00.001-04:00

A town hall meeting was held on June 25th at Goodwin Hall at 10am.The meeting was opened by Ron Herb and conducted by Dennis Kralick, acting president. There were 60 people in attendance.

The meeting was called to suggest the forming of a committee to act as liaison between the shareholders and the board. Volunteers were requested. Dennis gave a report on the recent Disaster Meeting held June 23. There will be a block captain and an alternate assigned to each street in the park. A July 4th picnic will be held at 4pm, at Junglelandia. Use the sign up sheet in Info room. A potluck and hotdogs and hamburgers will be furnished. Everyone brings a covered dish.

The parking problems, the pool repair, the front gate call box were all discussed and will be put on the agenda for a future board meeting. Judy Webb is no longer the editor of the Outlook. No explanation or replacement was discussed.

The next board meeting will be July 20th 1pm...next town hall meeting Aug. 20, 2011 at 10am. Meeting adjourned at 11:30am.

Town Hall Meeting Saturday

2011-06-22T00:13:00.000-04:00

There will be a Town Hall Meeting on Saturday, June 25, 2011 at 10:00 am. The purpose of the meeting is to establish a committee as a permanent liaison committee between the shareholders and the Board of Directors. The Board has been invited to attend.

All our encouraged to attend as every voice is important.

A New Board Member for Regency Cove

2011-06-21T01:12:00.000-04:00

A park majority conscensus has been been publicized, and a board member has resigned. The Board of Directors now has the responsibility to fill the vacancy. Here are a few thoughts that I would like to share with you board members. I encourage other residents to add your ideas:

1. No personal agendas are welcome. At Candidates' Night in March 2011, several of you spoke of representing the residents. ( Elaine, are you listening?) Well, the residents have spoken, and now its time for the BOD to reconfigure their policies and loyalties of the last few weeks/months to finally represent the residents in choosing a new board member. It was unbelievable to hear that after the recall results were announced, and the board president resigned, that one board member called out and refused to accept the resignation of the president. One question for that board member: Do you, in any way, understand the meaning of representing the majority of the residents of Regency Cove? Apparently not. Who needs you?

It wasn't that long ago that a president changed our hot tub rule because his visitng grandson couldn't get into the tub. I fought that while I served on the board and I continue to disagree with allowing children into our hot tub because it is a therapeutic device, and not a recreational toy. Get off your fat ass and take the kids to Busch Gardens or Lowery Zoo, for cripe sake.
Board members, remember who put you where you are. Start listening to your neighbors, and get off your high horse, because horses aren't allowed in Regency Cove. Motorcycles, on the other hand, are. BOD, you dropped the ball on that rule, and many of us are mad as hell. A year has passed and not one single one of you has has bothered to re-initiate the No Motorcycle Rule in the park. Who are you listening to?

Next: the Board of Directors, or the officers of the BOD must stop doing favors for their friends. This is one of those "touchy areas" that our board has refused to publicly address. A request was recently submitted to the board via the approved office form, regarding the kayak ramp on Pelican Point.
Someone chose to eliminate the topic from the agenda. This is the president's job. Why wasn't this discussed at the last board meeting? The residents of Pelican Point have requested attention to their needs. Betty Ridge and our Board has overlooked their requests.
What a shame to Regency Cove!

Killing the Messenger

2011-06-19T14:09:00.000-04:00

I received an email this morning that I'd like to share.

Sandy:

Why don't you just stay up at the Lake and leave this Park and the people alone. What is wrong with you that you keep using that Blog to start problems with statements that are just untrue. Let it go and consider staying up north forever and maybe things will get better here in our community with you out of the picture.

Please try to get your heart in the right place for right now you feel powerful but maybe not in the eyes of our Lord.
"God is Love"

Betty Ridge

Betty:
I find it amusing that I am the focus of your contempt. I merely report both sides of the issues, and folks can draw their own conclusions. This blog has lasted for three presidents, and it will last for at least one more. Like it or not, this is called COMMUNICATION. Why doesn't the Board have its own blog?

I served on the Board for three years, introduced the board to some wonderful educational opportunities (ROC Forum, the Master Gardener program, Hillsborough County mini-grants, to name a few). I wasn't the best board member the park ever had, but I wasn't the worst either. I served my community, and accomplished some nice projects. My heart is and always has been, in the right place... making positive contributions to my neighborhood.

While working on my projects, I worked alongside our employees, and always treated them with respect. They've always done the same for me. I never poked my nose into personnel files, because the Board isn't supposed to do that. I never promoted firing anyone.

Now as to me staying up here at the lake, it ain't gonna happen. What an unkind thing for you to suggest. I hope your bitterness leaves you soon. Maybe God will, after all, place His Love inside you.

Please heal.
Sandy

Recall Results

2011-06-18T17:03:00.000-04:00

During the board meeting this morning, a process server arrived and delivered a package to the table where the board members were sitting. Although several board members showed an interest in it, nothing was said about it during the meeting. After the meeting someone asked what the package was, and Dennis Kralick announced that it was the results of the recall ballots: 31 were against the recall and 222 were in favor of the recall.

Our president asked for the floor, made a few comments, and then resigned.
The residents of the park have made their opinions very clear. The majority has spoken.

Funeral Notice

2011-06-14T08:57:00.000-04:00

RICARDO BRAVO ( RICKIE), BLVD. 2 LOT 3, PASSED AWAY AT 6:30PM TUESDAY JUNE 10. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS ARE JUNE 14 6-8PM, BOZO FUNERAL HOME ARMENIA & OSBORNE.

REGRETS TO JULIE 837-8959

Citizens Requires Roof Inspections

2011-06-09T17:41:00.000-04:00

Late last winter at the monthly ROC Forum meetings (educational seminars for residents and board members of resident owned co-ops), we learned that Citizens' Insurance had begun a new policy to require roof inspections of mobile homes before the insurance would be carried for another year. Those first residents were very confused, as were the companies doing the mandatory inspections. Things have improved.

Several residents in our park have recently been required to submit inspection photos and reports to Citizens. If you have had AMS for any major roof repair or replacement, call them back, and you will probably get a good deal on the inspection. Another major inspection company that has long done business in Regency Cove, Diamond Home Inspections, has agreed to a reduced rate of $50 for the inspection... Citizen's form included. Call their Hillsborough number 813-229-0603.

Don't be talked into spending big bucks on this inspection. Its just a formality, and a few more bucks coming out of your wallet.

No News is **** News?!

2011-06-03T21:55:00.001-04:00

Things have been relatively quiet in the park. Ballots continue to return to the attorneys' office. We've heard that some Canadian ballots were just delivered a few days ago, so returns will be slow. A few people have reported that they never received their ballots. These things will be corrected.

I admit, this blog has been deadly quiet for well over a week. Reason One: There is no news to report. Reason Two: My cancer surgery last week knocked me right on my ass. Eat, Sleep, Recover.... PERIOD.

I occasionally viewed blog comments while under the spell of strong pain medication. (Too bad for you, Nasty People.)
Comments that come in attacking me were deleted on-the spot because this is MY BLOG, and I have the power to do so. There is no freedom of speech on my blog. If you don't like what I write, shut up already, don't visit here. I have tried to present both sides of the arguments presented. I posted all comments until they became so malicious and personal, I chose to delete them.

I haven't been out of the house very much since my surgery last week. I spent some time with our Maintenance Supervisor this afternoon trying to order new swings and hardware for our pavillion, to use up the grant money. When I walked to my car, I was quite literally accosted by one of Betty's Goons. "Why are you spreading LIES on your blog?" To tell you the truth, I told him, I am so sick of the word "lies". Both sides of this squabble are throwing around "LIES" that its hard to determine what is real anymore.

We discussed--- no, I listened to this man's version of driving his car out to the Pelican Point. Apparently my sources LIED about what happened out there that night. Did he blow his horn? Did he shout to the folks at Sunset Point? I don't know. Do I give a damn? Hell No! I printed both versions... y'all can make up your own minds. ( Chuck: WTF ?? Was your car out on Pelican Point or wasn't it? Everyone else in this Park knows the rules... what's wrong with you? The Pope could've been out there with you, I don't give a flying fig. YOU WERE WRONG!!) Shut up about everything else.. Bro, you are WRONG! If I was Betty I'd tell ya, " Hey Chuck, please don't do me any "favors". Go home, put some blankets over your head and shut the hell up."

This isn't important. This is not an issue that we need to spend any time on. Our issue is the recall of the president of this park who has chosen to overstep her position as board president, and begin making decisions that our manager should be making. Our president has been involving herself in too many day to day decisions of park. Its perfectly OK for the park Manager to go around and make decisions.That's why we hired her. The Board president, by our By-Laws, is the mouth of the Board of Directors. Our Board president has no authority to go around and make decisions on her own. We need a whole meeting to catch-up on Betty's recent decisions around the park.
Let's get this over with now. Folks, Mark the X in front of the Recall, sign your name, date it, and mail it to the attorney... NOW!

Addressing a rumor

2011-05-27T08:27:00.008-04:00

The Bible study group that meets every Tuesday at our hall has been accused of "starting all the trouble in the park". Religion has NOTHING to do with this conflict, and this statement couldn't be further from the truth. It is sick just how far "the opponents of the recall" will go....this is pathetic. Dee Bedore

Lies and Questionable Behavior

2011-05-20T17:26:00.001-04:00

The president has stubbornly refused to resign from the board, and the recall vote was initiated. No one has challenged the numerous "Reasons for Recall" included with the ballot because everything was factual.

Since the ballots were mailed, residents of the park have witnessed aggressive outbursts of profanity from the president's BF and friends.Lies intended to discourage voting are being spread around the community. No, the president hasn't decided to resign, because they are still making calls to folks up north to encourage them to discard their ballots or vote no.

Can anyone explain the obnoxious behavior demonstrated by the guy who chose to drive his car out to Pelican Point last night to heckle and harass the Sunset Point sitters? The president's "friends" are setting such a pitiful example of adult behavior, its hard to understand who could even side with them.

The residents are tired of the secrecy of this board. Yet many of the presidents "friends" are blabbering such secrets, its impossible to believe in the integrity of some current board members. Things that only the president should know are being blabbed by someone who has never even served on the board. The president's BF is telling folks up north about the sizeable severance our ex-manager received. Is there any character and integrity left in some of our officers? Its terrible to see the other board members huddling around their questionable leader, and not listening to the will of the majority, as they claimed on Candidate's Night. Keep in mind, we put you office, we can undo you just as easily.

Let's get on with this recall, and find a board with some character that can honestly serve this community.

micro managing

2011-05-20T10:37:00.001-04:00

Our board has to quit trying to "micro-manage" the park. Let the new manager do her job, or, she won't be with us very long.

May 15 Board Meeting

2011-05-18T19:12:00.001-04:00

We saw again today what happens in a community when the board speaks to the people, and the people are allowed to speak back to the board. We had a very pleasant meeting this afternoon, for the most part. The usual business took place, except that the manager's report was read by a board member and not the manager, and no reason was given. And no one asked.
The topic of additional security cameras was tabled, but we will get a safe deposit box for our office records. (I can't believe that a board action was necessary for this.) The open community Trash and Treasures suggested by Elaine Belba was pretty much shot down by most of the membership. Most people didn't like the idea of strangers roaming our community, and the parking nightmares in front of homes with sales. Estimates will be sought for pool repairs. (Again... a board decision is needed for this?)

Very troublesome was the topic of parking on Pelican Point. The residents stressed the need for an uncluttered turnaround for emergency vehicles. The safety of the residents became the issue vs. parking for the people who play on the water. I still believe this topic should have never come to the board for a decision. Apparently some of them want to change our common grounds use to the benefit of their friends. And we learned who they were when both Betty and Paul vote against the safety of the residents on Pelican, in favor of parking for the kayakers. (This just makes the decision to recall easier!)

The highly unfavorable Paul McCumber CPP (continuous parking permit) dilemma resurfaced today when a resident couple requested an additional parking permit so they could rotate their cars at Sunset Point. Some days his car should be parked out there, but once in awhile her car should be off the carport and out on the Point. Our Rules and Regs will need to be changed again, of course. But they were rather secretly changed to put this CPP crap into existance in the first place. This was another of those rules, like the motorcycles in the park, jammed down our throats at a board meeting, We had no say in the matter, but the board rammed it through. One older gentleman asked a question about where his visitors are supposed to park. No one answered him, and he was pretty much ridiculed. "Do you want to answer that one Chet?" ...Hahaha... "No way!" Hahaha...The old guy persisted and asked his question again, and maybe even twice before he was given an answer to register his guests in the office and get a parking permit. Criminy, our senior residents never had to do this before, no wonder they're confused!
Next, the Marine Commitee recommended that the dock fee be reduced. Many many dock vacancies exist because the annual fee has gone up to $500 , and private docks in the park are available for cheaper. The board has recently reduced the apartment rents, to fill an extraordinary amount of vacancies. The board has also reduced the price of HORC homes/shares to below value to get rid of them. Why shouldn't they reduce the dock fees as well, to encourage leasing them out to capacity? The membership seemed to take two sides... those with and those without boats. The topic was closed for further comments when I realized that the availability of well-maintained docks is a strong selling point for every resident in this park. Sure, you may not have a boat, but it may become a selling feature to the couple who wants to buy your house. The dock fee reduction passed when it was put by Dennis Kralick to the membership for a vote.
After the meeting, Betty opened the floor for questions. Under no circumstances would they entertain any questions regarding Cheri's removal. "I can't say bad things about people who aren't present" Betty said. Dennis Hayes blurted out that they are not allowed to talk about it at all, by attorney rules. When questioned about the new manager, we learned that she started today. The board had to be prompted by the membership to ask her to come meet us. (?!?) (This secrecy stuff sucks!) So Dennis H went to get her, and we were introduced to Dawn Simmons, our new manager. She has been in management for over 30 years, and a co-op manager for 12. Her credentials are great. She is probably unaware of the issues in our park, and shouldn't be held accountable for anything that's occurred before her arrival. Please welcome her.

Board Meeting Tomorow

2011-05-17T21:54:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow, Wednesday May 18, 2011, the board of directors of Regency Cove will hold their monthly meeting at 1:00 pm at Goodwin Hall. The agenda has been posted in the Information Room.

We hope to see our residents at this meeting.

Update

2011-05-13T15:40:00.001-04:00

Blogger has been down for almost two days. Sorry for that.

Yesterday morning, our manager Cheri was observed being escorted out of the office building by member(s) of the Board of Directors. Her position has been terminated.

This is a sad day for Regency Cove.

Feel free to leave comments below.

Town Hall Meeting May 5, 2011

2011-05-06T01:37:00.000-04:00

Many thanks to board VP Dennis Kralick who initiated tonight's Town Hall meeting. An estimated 150 people were present. What a surprise for us that Ronald Weaver, the agent (attorney) for DiBartolo Development and Mr. Rosenberger showed up at our Town Hall meeting tonight... apparently uninvited! The attorney Weaver was given the microphone to answer questions. Someone asked for a simple explanation of the recent Good Neighbor Notice we received in the mail, and Weaver likened it to a hockey game. How would you like to be playing an important conference game only to learn that the rules have changed since last night's game? Each point tonight will only count for half of last night's points. How would you like that?
He joked and guffawed thru the explanation, and then asked for questions. His mistake. The people of Regency Cove made some pretty remarkable queries to which Mr. Weaver answered more than once "Hey, I want you on OUR SIDE!!" He dodged, avoided, and skirted many tough issues, or deferred the site questions to Rosenberger. He jabbered and babbled but many questions had to be asked more than once to get a suitable answer.The membership was patient as questions were asked, and re-asked, and asked again.

After they left, the conversation continued, and all residents were asked to please either sign a petition, or write a letter to request a traffic study and mitigation plan for the new Georgetown construction. Snowbirds are strongly urged to return the form in May's Outlook ASAP.
Our board members were asked by residents present to support this request either in writing, or to appear if meetings are held downtown. Other than Dennis, not one board member present addressed the need for a traffic study. They were all ill-prepared for tonight's topic, or waited for a consensus.
Ellen Nimon described her many meetings attended to show our displeasure at the Gandy Overpass Project, and encouraged the current board to Get With It. It soon became very apparent that our board, other than Dennis, wanted no part of an official stance, despite resounding applause or votes by hand on the issue. "The Board will consider this issue at a later date" said Betty, which, hopefully, will be TOMORROW (May 6)?!? The deadline for letters downtown is May 12.
Send your letters to Dennis Kralick, the only board member who attended a recent emergency meeting of Bayside West Neighborhood Assn, and came forward in support of this important issue. Imagine 6,000-12,000 new car traffic on West Shore Blvd, coming from this new community which is being planned for twice the number of units that old Georgetown had.
THEN:
Ellen Nimon took the mic and started speaking directly to the residents. She spoke about how Rules and Regs have been taken away from the people, many, many changes have been made recently with no communication with the people. Town Hall meetings have disappeared. Shareholders began contributing their own comments. One woman recounted attorney Ellen De Haan's address to us at the Annual Meeting about how rules should be enacted. It starts with the people, at Town Hall meetings, ideas are shared and residents are given the opportunity to speak. Longer than three minutes, and more than once if necessary. People were irate at the most recent Rules and Regs changes, under the previous president, and accused the board of voting on them without knowing what they were. It seems as if the Board wants no input from the shareholders, and are running away with new policies, new accounting practices, and the firing of our manager and possibly our maintenance staff if a management company comes in. Many residents have no confidence in our attorney, and want the board to hire a new one.The president and several board members stood and argued their positions. The were drowned out by more and more questions, comments and jeers from the membership. People continued to demand transparency and communication, and board members repeated the procedure to fill out a form to get items on the agenda. The problem is, the people's agenda items are put at the end, and recently board meetings have been cut short with several agenda items completely ignored.
People began addressing questions directly to specific board members, some were pertinent, some were a little off the wall. It appeared as though the president went to each board member standing and told them not to answer any more questions, because one by one they disappeared out the door. By the end of the meeting that asked for board members to LISTEN to us, only two remained in the hall (Hindman and Belba) sitting in the audience, not up front speaking to the group.
The residents were generally polite in their public comments during the meeting. Elaine was wrongly accused of statements made by another candidate during Candidates' Night. She addressed her accuser and remained in the hall.
The irony of the evening is this: the people were asking for communication. Damn near all of the board members present ( Dunphy, Fennessy, Hayes,Kralick, Ridge) responded by walking out on the people they represent. The comments after the meeting were not so polite.. .talk of secret board meetings on Saturdays, too much board business done by email, and ultimately, let's have a board member recall.
The Board of Directors has a lot of damage control to remediate. Kudos to Dennis Kralick for initiating tonight's informative and exciting Town Hall meeting.

Mail your personal letter requesting a traffic study and mitigation plan for the Georgetown Project
Case Number FD 11-26
Folio: 130055.0000Tell them who you are, and that we are worried about traffic at our back gate.
to:
City of Tampa
Land Development Coordination
306 East Jackson St, 3E
Tampa, FL 33602

I can't end this without one short little commentary. I think our newly elected board members got an earful tonight. If I'm not mistaken, 5 of our 9 board members have been onboard for 2 years or less.
All of our board need to recognize the importance of maintaining a neighborhood position within the city of Tampa. Bayside West has been that avenue since its inception in 2008 (?) . Our neighbor association president, Jerry Frankhouser has for years attempted to pull Regency Cove into its fold. Not so long ago, we had a position imposed by our board to stay away from "Downtown" because they were the enemy, or highly suspect.
Over the years we have learned that by cooperating with the city and the county, we gain immeasurable rewards. Things like our master gardener who helped us plan Blvd 7, rain barrel workshops and micro-irrigation workshops giving us hundreds of dollars of free materials. And don't forget our grants... to date $5,500 in the last three years.
Regency Cove is not only a wonderful senior citizen community, it is a distinct neighborhood in the city of Tampa, and a neighborhood association by Hillsborough County definitions. I am asking the members of our board to be sensitive and receptive to our governmental agencies. Be proactive, they are our benefactors. You can write the grants in the future. I'm getting a little tired.

Regency Cove Responds to Georgetown

2011-05-02T08:02:00.001-04:00

The development next to us (Georgetown) is asking to be Grandfathered in for 6319 trips per day for a large development. They were granted this when they first went thru the permitting process. Our petition asks for a Traffic Study per the new Ordinance adopted March 17, 2011.

Bayside East Association, Regency Cove residents and surrounding neighborhood feel this will get us to the table to talk to the developer and at his expense put in Right and Left Turn lanes plus a signal at Fair Oaks which will be their main entrance to help with the traffic at our back gate during the two rush hours of the day.
Please Sign the Petition, Print your name, Date, and give your address. Please Fax to our office at (813) 839-5442. (All who reside in your home at Regency Cove can sign the Petition).
You can also attach the petition to an email and send to
peggy@regencycove.com or denniskralick@yahoo.com. Email Dennis for a copy of the petition.

You can also mail it to the office: We have to have all the petitions returned by May 11, 2011 to hand deliver them to the zoning administrator on May 12, 2011. If you need further information please contact Dennis at denniskralick@yahoo.com. Or, Cheri at the office.
We are holding a Town Hall Meeting at Goodwin Hall, 7pm, Thursday, May 5, 2011. All residents are invited.
Thank You,

Dennis W. Kralick

Neighbood Meeting

2011-04-24T15:42:00.000-04:00

This just in from Jerry Frankhouser, President of Bayside West Neighborhood Association:

On Friday afternoon, we received a "Good Neighbor Notice" from counsel for the DeBartolo group.
DeBartolo is requesting a Formal Decision on the number of trips they want to and from Georgetown in a day. Tampa City Council made some changes in the code on March 17, 2011 that would give Georgetown developers a problem. They want to be "grandfathered in." They say they are entitled to 6314 trips to and from in one day. That is a LOT. Just imagine the traffic on W.Fair Oaks and S.Westshore.

Please come to a special meeting of Bayside West Neighborhood Association at Jan Platt Library Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00pm in the StoryTime room. Go all the way into the library; turn left and go to the second door on your left. You personally expressed concern about the Georgetown project in the past. That is why I am including you in this email notice. We need to come together now on a strategy for having their petition denied. The deadline to submit a response is May 6, 2011.

I will attempt to have someone from the City to talk to us. Please let me know if you are coming.
Thank you.

Jerry's home phone: 839-1066

The Final Friendship Club Dinner - 2010 Season

2011-04-19T01:09:00.000-04:00

It was great to see more than 100 residents at tonight's final dinner of the season. Alice Disharoon has done a fantastic job in her beginning months as the 2011-2012 Friendship Club President. The dinners have been well-organized, and beautifully decorated. The entertainment has been wonderful, especially that circus guy on the unicycle a couple months ago. I don't think this park has laughed like that for years.
The block committees are working, so far, to host the parties. If the blocks don't volunteer, they say the dinners won't happen. We all need to take an active part in our community.

God bless our cooks! Tonight Joe, Matt, Chuck, Wes, and Tony S. prepared the salad, chicken and vegetables. Karen P went into the kitchen to help serve. What an unbelievably devoted group they are!

The entertainment tonight was great. One little thought, however. Both entertainers did sing well, however, so did our participants. I just wish the DJ would have stopped his singing once in awhile to let the crowd hear itself. I love hearing our sing-alongs. I hope they never stop.

Thank you Alice and her Board for their work and planning. Thanks for voting to provide supplies for more improvemenets to the hall this summer.

Pull Tops Collections Help Local Kids

2011-04-19T00:28:00.000-04:00

Shriners Hospital recently sent a Thank You note to Mama's Kitchen, at 5524 S Dale Mabry, where our neighborhood collection of pull tabs get deposited periodically. Here it is, in part:
       "On behalf of the Shriners Hospitals for Children-Tampa, I would like to thank you for the generous donation of can tabs. Collecting tabs is a time-consuming effort, and we are thankful for your commitment to this project. Although they might seem small, the can tabs quickly add up and bring in thousands of dollars each year to support the Shriners' mission.
       "You can be assured that your contribution will be used to help keep smiles on the faces of our patients and their families."
       The letter goes on to describe the research and teaching programs and all the horrific conditions that receive care and family services through Shriners Hospitals. How blessed we are with our healthy families to never have experienced the true level of Shriners care. Please continue to save your pull tabs in the Info Room, and please don't attempt to recycle our collection yourself. There are people designated to collect and turn in the tabs. Keep up the good work. Thank you.

Neighborhood Owl

2011-04-19T00:08:00.000-04:00

Its almost midnight, the deck doors are open, the house is quiet, and I'm listening to the "Hoot Hootie Hoot, Whoo Whoo" of the owl that has been hanging around our waterfront for that past several weeks. Its very close tonight, but I still can't see it.
Our home in Illinois was in a very wooded area, and we frequently heard the calls of owls at night, screech owls and horned owls. Its very comforting to listen to this, knowing that they are quietly decimating the rodent population every night.
If you can't sleep some night, take a walk towards the water, and listen to our visitor. There he goes again....

Benches are Placed

2011-04-07T22:54:00.004-04:00

The board approved the bench committee's suggested placement for new benches, and early this morning, the process began. Two solid concrete benches were placed on Pelican Point, replacing the aged spindley wood and metal benches of days gone by. If anyone asks, those old ones were trashed. They were rusted, rotten, and unfit for any further safe use by our residents.

Six brand new solid concrete benches were placed at Sunset Point this morning. A few new volunteers, Claude Pegdan and George Blanchette, added their support placing the wooden slats, while Ed Scobee and Richard Gauss muscled the 160 pound bench ends into position. Etel Helbig and I refinished the scrapes and dings on the newly sanded/stained 2x4 slats.They were perfect before they were stacked and moved about.

Removing an old bench

Leonard Helbig and Mike Ross arrived to assist in the placement of benches five, six, seven and eight on the Point and closer to the pavilion. There were two crappy rusted pipe benches east and west of the pavillion that were totally removed and replaced today with these new concrete replacements. Some of the slats on these old benches literally fell apart when they were moved, the hardware was so corroded. The memorials plaques will be replaced soon.

One little item of interest of which every resident needs to be aware: when the bobcat was filled with 700-800 pounds of concrete, our diligent maintenance crew decided to fill the front tires with air. Richard noticed nesting very near the air spigot on the tire, a Black Widow spider. His diligence prevented a catastrophe, and perhaps even, the death of one of our employees. I was there, I saw the little sucker smashed under the foot of one of our volunteers. I did write an article in the Outlook about these spiders a year ago or so. Brown recluse spiders too. Be aware! They are here.

The Bedores donated the champagne for the workers to share. Thanks! Thanks to everyone who helped. Len, Tony, and Mike... you are Heroes! Thanks to Wes for cleaning the old plaques

Workers Celebrating

Claude helping

April 5, 2011

2011-04-06T09:37:00.000-04:00

A day of contrasts

8am

8pm

New Bench Update

2011-03-31T20:09:00.004-04:00

Today in the maintenance shed, the ninth and hopefully final cement bench was cast. The three-man muscle team of Leonard Helbig, Tony Sencich, and Mike Ross fabricated forms, hand-mixed and shoveled 2,880 pounds of cement, and later broke open the molds. The 160 pound bench ends were then smoothed with a stone, layered with a coat of filler, and again smoothed.

While this is going on, the 54 wooden bench slats are being cut, planed, sanded, and stained. Today another female volunteer, Etel Helbig, showed up to help me stain the mountain of bench slats.
Our wonderful maintenance supervisor, Ed Scobee, is on-hand and contributing to all the work, staying late after we leave and beginning work early before the volunteers arrive to keep the work area organized, and materials handy. While tamping wet concrete, or cutting 2 by 4s, he continues to answer crisis calls on his walkie-talkie, cell phone, and with his crew who are in and out all day long.

At his home, Wes Rice has taken the responsibility for the nine aged brass plaques that were removed from discarded benches and he is restoring them to their original brilliance. When all of these pieces come together at Sunset Point and Pelican Point, I hope the residents show their appreciation to these wonderful volunteers.Soon we are planning a day for the residents to refinish the benches around the park.It has yet to be approved by the board. We'll let you know the date as soon as it happens. Stay tuned.

March 31st Rough Weather

2011-03-31T18:59:00.001-04:00

What a remarkable weather day! While working with the Bench Brigade in the maintenance shed, we observed more and more cars arriving at the clubhouse after 11am. The storm sweeping through Tarpon Springs earlier this morning slowly moved south. In the maintenance shed, we had a NOAA radio broadcasting the tornado watches and warnings. When the alarm beeped and the radio broadcasted the tornado warning in Pinellas County, the folks at home apparently were watching on their TV sets, and they drove over to the clubhouse.

I was very happy to see the enlightened few leave their mobile homes and take cover in a brick building. OK OK it might not be the the BEST solution, but staying in your mobile home during a tornado warning is a pretty dumb thing to do. The atmosphere in the room may have been somewhat tense with the group watching the TV, but there is always a group looking for a card game, and by George, a card game of Golf started up, keeping 8 or 10 residents entertained thru the crisis.

It appears from the TV news that there were two tornado trails through the city today, one north of us, and another through south Tampa along Interbay. Straight line winds also contributed to considerable damage. Mayor Iorio spent her last day in office surveying the tornado damage throughout the city. The tornado warnings continue tonight until 8pm, another hour or so.

If we can make it through the next little round of storms tonight, once again Regency Cove has been blessed.

Our Bench Grant

2011-03-23T00:40:00.001-04:00

A small group has been working since Friday to fabricate concrete bench ends to add to Sunset and Pelican Points. They will almost match the benches there now. Resident Len Helbig made the pattern from an existing bench end. A few modifications were made, and a prototype mold was made last Friday, and cast on Monday. Today, the concrete shapes were removed from the forms, a nice smooth layer skimmed to fill the little voids, and they were set to the side to dry while the next batch is being cast.
By tomorrow, we will have completed 6 bench ends to make 3 new concrete benches. A bid arrived in February with a cost of $800 per pair of bench ends. We will have made three benches for under $400, if all goes well.
This grant is supported by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, the Hillsborough County Children's Board, and the Frank E. Duckwell Foundation within the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay. Our thanks to them, and to our wonderful volunteers.

Ed Scobee has been working with the trio, which also includes Mike and Sandy Ross. Coming in April we will have a volunteer day to sand and stain and recondition all of the benches in the park.

HB 5005

2011-03-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure of spending some time on Moday with two representatives from the Division of Business and Professional Regulations.One came from Tallahassee, the other from the Tampa office. They presented at the annual ROC Forum Board Orientation held on March 21, 2011. Three of our board members attended. I was saddened to hear that there is a bill (HB 5005) attempting to eliminate the Office of Compliance which oversees mobile home parks and condos.
The bill is attempting to deregulate many professions, including CAMS, our licensed community association managers. What in the world are they thinking about?
The FMO Watchdog group claims that this bill may take up back 20 years or more. We need to let our representative know that we strongly oppose this bill.

Representative Dana D. Young

Capitol Office: 1101 The Capitol , 402 South Monroe Street , Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300 Phone: (850) 488-2770

District Office: Suite 202, 2909 W. Bay to Bay Boulevard , Tampa, FL 33629-8175, Phone: (813) 835-2270

2011 Annual Meeting

2011-03-16T17:18:00.000-04:00

The Election Committee was present bright and early before 9am to get all set up for the important task of counting ballots. At 9am, the ballot box was opened and sorting began, by last name. When names couldn't be read, the committee relied on the address to identify the voter. If the envelope name didn't match the recorded voter name, the ballot was marked "disregard". Several names and addresses were quite illegible, and they also were marked "disregard". Bundles of 25 were made and placed back into the ballot box, which was re-locked.
Many of the last minute ballots were missing the outer envelope. By law ballots and envelopes must be available at the meeting. After the final call for ballots, the ballot box was opened again, as attorney Ellen Hirsh DeHaan announced a quorum was present and she opened the first Annual Meeting in several years. Mr Godels gave the certified public accountant's report. Questions were allowed at the end.
A vote was taken by the membership whether to fully fund the reserves in 2012, or not. The vote was 251 to 5 NOT TO FULLY FUND the reserves next year.
The results of the election were posted, and the three candidates receiving the most votes were Rosalie Reis, Elaine Belba, and Dennis Hayes.
A few members requested items for the agenda, and discussion followed on changing common areas, motorcycles in the park, rules and regulations, the use of fines, and reducing the number of board members from 9 to just 5. The attorney wasn't there to make legal judgements or decisions, she commented a little,and mostly she just thanked the speakers for their comments.
After the meeting was adjourned, the Organization Meeting was held. Patty Fennessy was on a conference call from her bed at the rehab center, so all board members, new and old, were accounted for. Our new officers are Betty Ridge as president, Dennis Kralick as VP, Elaiane Belba, secretary, and Rose Reis as treasurer.
Ruth Paruszkiewicz announced that she would be retiring as Chairperson of the Election Committee. We all need to thank Ruth for her conscientious efforts over the years.
'Nuff said.

March Madness

2011-03-15T21:09:00.001-04:00

It has been a very sedate campaign this year. Our candidates have been very professional in their endeavors. Tomorrow will tell....

It was posted in the Info Room that the ballot box will be opened at 9am, for the purpose of verifying names and addresses, a very time-comsuming process.This is open to the public. Ballots will be accepted until the meeting is opened at 10 am. After that, any late ballots will not be counted.

If a quorum has been met, the annual meeting will be held. Again we must vote to keep from fully funding our reserves the next time a budget is done. If you will not attend the meeting, please assign a proxie to count your vote.

Our Veterans' Anthology

2011-03-02T03:43:00.000-05:00

It was at a potluck supper, many months ago, that a new friendship was struck and a brilliant idea was born. IMAGINE!!?? Meeting a new person at a potluck supper? Maybe this is why the Friendship Club frowns at those folks who continually reserve seats for their neighbors, and refuse to be receptive to someone new at their table.

Well, it happened that a relatively new potluck attendee (Robby Roberts) sat near resident Ed Bedore, and they happily chatted throughout the dinner. Ed learned that Robby is the quiet little guy who calls people on their birthday and serenades them with Happy Birthday on his harmonica. Ed also learned that Robby was a WWII pilot who shot down a few Jap planes in his time. It was then that Ed decided that there are too many wartime stories right here in Regency Cove that need to be recorded right now, before we lose any of them.
.
For a couple of months now, Ed has been pursuing his dream of recording the stories of the veterans of Regency Cove. He enlisted the aid of a friend who likes to write and doesn't know how to say "No". (That would be me.)

We're pretty close to 60 vets so far, men and women, Americans and Canadians, and there are many lurking in the shadows. We have been advertising for several months in the Outlook. Word of mouth has been working for us, as one guy suggests another down the block. We're hoping to get all the snowbirds before you leave.

There will be no money made on this publication, no ads, no memorials. We are planning to take the typed text to Kinkos and have them reproduce and bind the pages we've typed. It won't be a slick hard cover edition like the history book, but then again, it won't cost $45 either.

Would you just give us a call so we can talk to you? We don't want to dredge up any horrible memories, but just record who you are and briefly what you did and where you served. Think about it. Call me.

New Regency Cove Weather Site

2011-02-27T12:01:00.000-05:00

A new weather site for Regency Cove opened this week. You can access it at http:// wunderground.com.
For as long as our local weatherman has his computer up and running, you can access the site from anywhere in the world.
Go to http://wunderground.com/, and type in our zip 33611 in the search box.

Candidates Night 2011

2011-02-23T02:12:00.000-05:00

It was so remarkable to see all the candidates up front and personal tonight in the hall. Some had beautifully prepared statements which they presented, others "winged it" and spoke off the cuff. The format they used this evening was brilliant, and Patty Fennessey did a great job as a moderator.
There are six new candidates, and two current board members running to fill three vacancies. In alphabetical order, each of the candidates answered the question "What can I contribute to Regency Cove as a Board Member". Many brought up their priority concerns: saving money and keeping costs down. management, maintenance, etc. One or two others just gave a little background info about their candidacy.

THEN candidate names were drawn to stand before the membership to answer direct questions. I'm sure they were all very nervous at this point. (I remember a few years ago I thought I might pass out at the mike.)
They were given a 10 minute limit, and by George, almost every candidate used every minute to defend their position on the topics raised by the shareholders.

For the most part, the questions were thoughtful and intelligent. But then, we always have that back row at the board meetings who love to heckle and make a lot of noise. Yeah, they were there tonight. QUESTION: Why didn't any of THOSE guys run for the Board? I'm not even gonna attempt an answer to that one.

We have a tough decision to make with this group of candidates.Of the new candidates, I like to look at their past performance: who has regularly attended board meetings and questioned the board of directors? Who has shown an interest in the community by serving on a committee? Volunteering? We can't judge by attendance in the park because our board has historically survived "Snowbird Presidents" in Dan Dillon and Paul McCumber.

None of the candidates discussed serving on committees, with the exception of Parker Kimball who is currently serving on several... Marine, Finance, Building Standards.....

Two of the owners of the Becker-Poliakoff attorney firm wrote a book recently about community association living, and they likened the election of board members to an election of high school officers. Its a popularity contest, they claim. We don't need to know who the most popular candidate is, if they shuffle or play Bingo or Euchre every week. We need a few strong candidates who will stand up to a group of officers who decide to run the park without including the rest of the board. We need individuals who are willing to attend ROC Forum seminars, and not the free breakfasts at CAI, where the main topic is condo issues and you sit among condo-vendors. We have had four presidents in the last ...what 5 years? I would like to see some stability return to our board.

I have to admit, our newest candidates Belba, Evans, Hayes, and Swift attended the most recent ROC Forum seminar. They all appear eager to attend and learn about the Florida statutes and understanding our governing documents. This is a good sign.

Vote your conscience.

New Candidates

2011-02-12T01:59:00.001-05:00

What a surprise for the HORC community to see so many candidates nominated at the meeting held on Feb 9th. This weekend, block captains will be distributing packets to all shareholders with the resumes of all the candidates running to fill the three board vacancies.

PLEASE DO NOT VOTE UNTIL YOU HAVE HEARD THE CANDIDATES SPEAK!!

FYI: Yesterday on Thursday afternoon, candidates were given notice of the monthly ROC Forum meeting this morning. Notice was very very short. Not all candidates were able to attend.

What is ROC Forum? Resident Owned Communites (ROCs) joined forces in the mid 80s to form a consortium to educate the boards of directors of newly formed resident owned communities. New ROCs continue to be formed in this new decade. The Forum continues to train board members, which is close to 50 resident owned communities in membership.

The candidates from our park who were able to attend the ROC Forum Roundtable this morning were Jim Swift, Dennis Hayes, Elaine Belba, and Naomi Evans. Gee, not one of our current board members attended this free educational event. I understand that conflicts DO occur. Let's keep watching the board members' progress.

Just Checking In

2011-02-12T01:28:00.000-05:00

No, I am not off on vacation, just very busy and very late updating the Whisperings...

Thanks to all the volunteers who contributed to the success of the 2011 Regency Cove Gasparilla celebration. The committee, the cooks, Cheryl and the decorating group, the band at Sunset Point, the breakfast table servers and cooks, and all the ticket sellers and ticket takers.... THANK YOU! Because there is no official club sponsoring Gasparilla, we rely on the resources of our club leaders...Chuck and Karen Paramore from the Yacht Club, Harry Margolis and Ron Jeffries from Shuffleboard, and Alice Disharoon from the Friendship club... we can't thank you enough for all you've contributed.

The weather certainly didn't dampen the spirits of the flotilla, golf carts, and the bicycle.

Mike Ross did a fantastic job chairing the event this year.He also maintained the books, serving again as Treasurer, watching every penny coming in and going out. He shopped with the cooks, and did an awful lot of last minute shopping and running around. The event turned a profit this year!! Roger Des Rosiers acquired two $25 Sweetbay gift certificates, and Ed Bedore donated a top of the line salt water fishing pole and reel to our raffle drawing. New pennants will be purchased to replace the weather-beaten ones gracing our boulevards, and there is even the prospect of a donation to the community kitchen. Last year Gasparilla purchased a $90+ industrial can opener to help the fantastic guys in the kitchen.

It was SOOO rewarding to see so many residents dressing up, decorating carts, and coming out to the Point. Chuck Davis was responsible for the Flotilla, and also the band playing at the Point. Thanks to everyone who helped to clean up at the end of the night. It was a very long day for the committee. From the general consensus, it was a GREAT party.

Gasparilla is Right Around the Corner

2011-01-27T21:47:00.001-05:00

Gasparilla volunteers worked diligently this morning hanging the pennants and setting the stage for the February 5th festivities.The Backyard Gang will provide entertainment under the Sunset Point pavillion, beginning at 2:15. The Flotilla arrives at the Point at 3:00, The parade will form at Sunset Point under the guidance of Grand Marshall Chet Hindman. Bikes, trikes, and carts will be judged for innovation and imagination. Doors to the clubhouse open at the end of the parade. All outside activities are subject to weather conditions. We are planning to eat at 4:30 and Jerry Chase will begin the music around 5:00. BYOB. Soft drinks, coffee and water will be provided.

Mike Ross, Jerry Williams,
Roger Des Rosiers, Ed Bedore

Ron Jeffries, John Rechsteiner,
Chuck Davis, Ed Bedore

Roger at work

You can purchase the $6 tickets from Guy Hislop, or at the following homes: Davis B3 L28, Bedore 10 Sunset, Jeffries B11 L23, Rechsteiner B15 L31, and Ross B15 L28.

As usual, prizes will be awarded for costumes!

Board Meeting 1-19-11

2011-01-22T08:40:00.001-05:00

A friend asked why I hadn't put the board minutes on the blog yet. I'm busy!
Here's a very short synopsis:
Past treasurer feels that too much cash is sitting in operating fund, and should be in an accout getting interest.

Two apartments will be empty at the end of the month. Rents will be adjusted.

Someone wants to bring two dogs into the park, blaming a mail snafu four years ago. Unanimous NO!

Owners are renting units without following procedure. Manager must then follow-up on strange people in the park.

There's a problem with the pool. No, not the pool, but the people in charge of it. Sounds like they need to do a little sit-down.

Contact any board member in an emergency.

A motion was approved to have all video equiptment set up in the back of the room.

A resident proposed a kayak rack at the end of Pelican Point near the ramp. It was stated that our property line is the fence. So whose property is the ramp on? The rack will cost $350 to build.

There was a pile of brush left on an empty lot over the Christmas holiday to which residents added their own, creating an unsightly mess. If a permanent out-of-sight location could be found for a brush holding area, the association could conceivably save quite a bit on trash removal. The dumping fee is $51 a ton for brush, and $71 a ton for trash. A committee was approved to study this issue.

Why doesn't anyone listen when I complain? Put your complaints in writing and sign them. Or shut up.

Now that payroll is outsourced, the Treasurer will now approve and sign employee paychecks.

A motion was made and approved that two signatures are required on all checks written to cover Reserve expenses.

Nice meeting. It moved along.

Help for Hownowners in Financial Crisis

2011-01-09T11:53:00.001-05:00

This just in from Florida ROC (Resident Owned Communities):

The Florida Department of Financial Services is sponsoring a free Florida Housing Help Workshop on January 12, 2011 at the Joseph P. D’Alessandro Office Complex (State building) at 2295 Victoria Ave, Fort Myers 33901. There is free parking available.

The following lenders will be available to meet with their borrowers facing foreclosure; Bank of America, Chase, Sun Trust and Freddie Mac. There will be U.S. HUD non profit approved Housing Counselors available for home owners whose bank is not listed above. The programs rounds from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

For additional information please contact Terry Cerullo, Community Outreach Coordinator for the department at 239 - 461- 4019.

We've called to ask if owners of mobile homes also qualify for assistance, and they certainly do. If another meeting closer to home occurs any time soon, we'll let you know.

Submitted by:

Terry Cerullo

Community Outreach Coordinator

Florida Department of Financial Services

Terrance.cerullo@myfloridacfo.com

239-462-4019

Highlight of 2010

2011-01-02T10:32:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year Friends and Neighbors!
The year 2010 is but a memory. During the year 160 posts were written for this blog. And now, with no further ado, here is the year 2010 in review.
January
January 2010 started cold and only got worse! Ornamental landscaping was freezing and dropping leaves. Our Master Gardner Lisa Strange advised us in early January to leave the dead branches and wait until spring to prune. We learned that many of our plants did re-emerge in the springtime.
Georgetown was coming down.
On a bitter cold January 2, 2010, office assistant Michelle married Derrin Knoop in a waterfront ceremony in Regency Cove. The celebration was marred with the theft of decorative lanterns that were left at the site, which were never recovered.
The tide of January 12 brought in scores of comatose, dying and dead fish, and the phenomenon continued for days. Florida Fish and Wildlife deemed it unlawful to scoop up the fish and we were told to let Mother Nature clean them up.
On January 14, block captains began distributing notices for the March Annual Meeting. The packet contained a final copy of new Rules and Regulations for the park. We would learn that the Rules and Regs continued to change for many months to come.

February

Pad prep for the new WalMart began in early February, with the foundation scheduled for pouring in a week. We held our breath in anticipation.

Regency Cove residents complete ballots to determine their support for the Gandy Bridge overpass project. Of the 74 ballots turned in, 52 were opposed to the project. Results were shared with Tampa city council and the Expressway Authority.

Gasparilla was held in Regency Cove on a bitter cold Feb 6. Strong winds and dangerous waves all but cancelled the Flotilla as only one hearty pirate crew ventured out into the canal to throw some beads.

Co-chairmen Ron Jeffries and Mike Ross, with Grand Marshall Chet Hindman meet on Sunset Point to assess the conditions. The party was a blast and scores of golden coins were awarded as prizes for costumes, golf cart, and bike

The Gandy Coalition is formed with Bayside West Neighborhood Association, and neighboring associations, and most all of the Gandy business owners in opposing the Gandy Overpass project.

House Bill 419, with over 70 pages of legislative changes to Chapter 719, died in committee in the last days of February. This bill would have limited board of director terms to two years, among other things.

March

A March 2 meeting at Scan Design on Gandy, residents and store owners formed the Gandy Coalition to publicize the neighborhood’s strong opposition to the Gandy Overpass project, challenging THEA (Tampa/Hillsborough County Expressway Authority). At an earlier community meeting, THEA declared that they would not build if the surrounding communities oppose the project. The group planned a visit to Tampa City Council to stage a unified opposition front.

Georgetown demolition is almost complete, with 40 of the 50 two story red brick buildings razed. Plans are formulated to turn the waterfront area into Tampa’s second largest waterfront park, next to Sandwich Island.

A quorum of HORC residents was not established at the Annual Meeting on March 17, but elections were held. Dennis Kralick, Betty Ridge, and Parker Kimball were elected to the board of directors.

March 23 was the date of the first 4 hour board meeting with the new board. Residents drop like flies from the meeting as the afternoon droned on.

April

Tampa hosts its first tea party, but few Regency Cove residents attend.

May
Resurfacing began at the Sunset Point parking area and continued on through the hot summer months.
The HORC board of directors learn that TriNet, the company who leases our employees, was dropping us in July.

June

Throughout the month, June storms create havoc on roofs and carports in the park. Some units were damaged from flying debris from other homes.

July

Fourth of July party is held in the hall with a barbeque. Residents brought dishes to round out the hamburgers and hot dogs provided. Music was provided by many locals and guests, and it was GREAT.
A new back gate was installed on July 10, bringing closure to the new fence project.
The president of the board rewrote the Rules and Regulations, and presented his changes at the July 14 meeting to the board who then began to make changes. There used to be a committee of residents who did this. The board of directors declared war on the parking lots of Regency Cove. Change was in the air.
The Tampa Post Office makes changes to the addresses of the park units. Mail is returned, some pension checks, bills, and financial statements are returned to sender, wreaking havoc on the residents of regency Cove.
Maintenance supervisor Ed Scobee is hospitalized for several nights after ruling out appendicitis.

August

Aug 1, A small committee meets and agrees on writing a grant for new benches for Sunset Point. Hillsborough County Office of Neighborhood Relations deadline for grants was fast approaching.
There was a slight delay in completion of the seal coating. The equipment was unavailable til the end of the month.
At the August 18th board meeting, the board approved $15k for a shuffleboard roof. The board president announces plans to eliminate funding of reserves. He was informed that the residents must vote on this.
August 21

September

Yet another version of the HORC Rules and Regs were distributed to the residents. Unlike rules of the past, where the old rules were shown crossed out and new changes were typed in bold, no attempt was made to help residents see the changes. Some of the changes were not even discussed at board meetings. The rule restricting motorcycles in the park disappeared from our documents, without any mention at a board meeting!
Security cameras turned up in many surprising locations throughout the park. We learned that our president has been watching us from his home in Canada.
The board agreed to put power in the boat storage yard!
A new gate code was established for the pedestrian gates.
Continuous parking permits were established.
Coupon books for monthly maintenance fees will go into effect in January. The Office will no longer collect the fees after the new year. Change is upon us.
For a day or two around September 24th, the seal c oating project came to an end with the boat storage yard. All boats were carefully relocated for this project.

October

The Gandy Coalition put alderman John Dingfelder on the spot with his support for the Gandy project. Voters were made aware of John’s stand. Pity, it was going to cost him.
The Black Box continues to control board meetings, and demonstrated a bit of a temper tantrum at the Oct, board meeting when board members refused to back one of his decisions.
Another $1,000 was approved for the shuffle court lights.

November

National election results are announced. The voters spoke. The state of Forida got a new governor and senator. The nation elected a new congress.
In Regency Cove, the 2011 budget discussions continue. President threatens a 33% maintenance fee increase, if a full funding of reserves is required.
Due to the effort of block captains and alternates who distributed notices house-to-house, and a group of residents who literally telephoned scores of northern residents to mail in their proxies, on November 23, a quorum was established at a Members’ Meeting in Regency Cove. The vote officially determined that the 2011 Budget would not fully fund the newly established reserves.
President Paul McCumber resigns from the office of president of the board of directors. Betty Rigde assumes the presidency.
The Office of Neighborhood Relations announces that Regency Cove won the $2500 grant for new benches.
The residents of Regency Cove decorate the clubhouse for another Christmas celebration.

December

Chet Hindman is selected to fill the office of vice president of Regency Cove.

A hot tub enclosure was approved at the Dec 9 board meeting so residents can use the tub if the pool is closed due to cold temperatures. Small fish can be preserved there in case of another cold snap.

A new accounting firm has been selected by the board of directors to eliminate payments made directly to the Office. Coupon books are distributed to residents for use in January 2011..

Regency Cove Association wins a First Place Award from Bayside West Neighborhood Association for Christmas lighting and decorations.

Bayside West Announces Regency Cove Decoration Winners

2010-12-27T23:08:00.000-05:00

Ann Frankhouser, Secretary of Bayside West Neighborhood Assn. awarded the Regency Cove maintenance crew a First Place Blue Ribbon for Best Neighborhood Decorations for their wonderful job of Christmas lighting this year. Bayside West Treasurer Sandy Ross was on hand to witness the honors.

An anonymous committee of judges viewed the park and designated the final winners.

Although many residents were considered in the judging of Homes category, the La Cava residence won the honors. Unfortunately they were not at home when Ann delivered their Blue Ribbon prize this afternoon.

Congratulations to our staff and to the LaCavas, and to all the residents of Regency Cove who get to enjoy the beautiful and festive illuminations.

Pick Up Coupon Books

2010-12-27T22:53:00.000-05:00

The Office staff is waiting for residents to pick up their new maintenance fee coupon books. Richard C. Commons, P.A., CPA has been engaged to handle our bookkeeping beginning Jan. 1st. Your payments will now be sent directly to First Community Bank. There was a slow start in the clubhouse as residents trickled in at noon today. Tomorrow will be the last day for this pick up, beginning at noon again. If you don't make it, we'll have to pay for the postage to deliver it.

Remember... do not mail your maintenance check to the office any more. Wait til your coupon book arrives. There will be no late fees charged this month as this transition occurs. Any questions on maintenance billing, call 727-461-9770.

Christmas Quotes

2010-12-23T14:25:00.000-05:00

“Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people once a year.” – Victor Borge

“I once bought my kids a set of batteries for Christmas with a note on it saying, toys not included.” – Bernard Manning

“I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six. Mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked for my autograph.” – Shirley Temple

“You know you’re getting old, when Santa starts looking younger.” – Robert Paul

“Oh, for the good old days when people would stop Christmas shopping when they ran out of money.” – Unknown Author

“What I don’t like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day.” – Phyllis Diller

“The one thing women don’t want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband.” – Joan Rivers

“Christmas at my house is always at least six or seven times more pleasant than anywhere else. We start drinking early. And while everyone else is seeing only one Santa Claus, we’ll be seeing six or seven.” – W.C. Fields

“Mail your packages early so the post office can lose them in time for Christmas.” – Johnny Carson

“The worst gift is a fruitcake. There is only one fruitcake in the entire world, and people keep sending it to each other.” – Johnny Carson

“Aren’t we forgetting the true meaning of Christmas? You know… the birth of Santa.” – Bart Simpson, The Simpsons

“The proper behaviour all through the holiday season is to be drunk. This drunkenness culminates on New Year’s Eve, when you get so drunk you kiss the person you’re married to.” – P.J. O’Rouke

Cleaning For A Reason

2010-12-23T07:40:00.000-05:00

Just received this email from a resident:
Cleaning for a Reason

If you know any woman currently undergoing chemotherapy, please pass the word to her that there is a cleaning service that provides FREE housecleaning - once per month for 4 months while she is in treatment. All she has to do is sign up and have her doctor fax a note confirming the treatment. Cleaning for a Reason will have a participating maid service in her zip code area arrange for the service. This organization serves the entire USA and currently has 547 partners to help these women.
It's our job to pass the word and let them know that there are people out there that care. Be a blessing to someone and pass this information along. http://www.cleaningforareason.org/

You may not know someone going through chemo, but someone on your email list might. Please pass this information on to your family & friends.

Last Night of the Cruise

2010-12-18T23:58:00.000-05:00

Regency Cove seems very far away. Regency Cove IS very far away. I am on the last few minutes of the internet connection package we purchased, on the last night of the 7 day cruise. The party is over, our bags are out in the hallway, or gone away already. We made new friends, and partied with old friends. All the hustle and preparation we made for this week, and now its a memory. We are still so far in the Gulf that no land is visible.

Hope things are alright at home. A few more days we'll share another Christmas holiday with our neighbors, and then another year will have ticked off the clock. I just can't believe how fast life is going. Must be having fun. Hope you are too. Merry Christmas. Caroling is tomorrow night. Hope to see many residents there.

Clubs Celebrate Christmas

2010-12-10T00:04:00.001-05:00

Commodore Chuck Paramore telephoned members of the Regency Cove Yacht Club to personally invite them to the complimentary Christmas luncheon this Saturday at noon. A delicious meal of Chicken Cordon Bleu will be served. This French delicacy involves a piece of chicken, stuffed with ham and cheese, and baked until it reaches perfection.. A dance will follow the meal, with entertainment by Fatu.

The Friendship Club's December Dinner on Dec 13th consists of baked ham with Regency Cove's secret raisin sauce. The dinner includes all the fixings, and a delightful ambrosia dessert. Members only need to contact Linda Siddens for ticket sales, or memberships for 2011.

Look ahead to the Annual Christmas Caroling event. Please sign up in the Info Room. If you are aware of a neighbor who has a difficult time getting out, please call Mary Willsey or Alice Disharoon. They will make certain that the carolers make a visit, and a goody bag is delivered by Santa and his "seasonal wife". A party follows in the hall after the singing. Bring a $2 wrapped gift for the drawing, and of course, homemade cookie donations are ALWAYS appreciated.

Board Meeting Today

2010-12-09T23:18:00.000-05:00

Take a deep breath. Do it again. Can you smell it? Can you taste it? Its fresh air.

There was a wonderful breath of fresh air at the board meeting today. No long speeches. No lengthy explanations. No recap of all the wonderful things this board has done. Betty Ridge presided over the meeting and kept things moving well. Business was discussed efficiently. There was at least one contentious item regarding the employee Christmas bonus, but it was handled quickly with a board vote after some discussion.

Today's agenda actually included old and new business again. One item handled is that an enclosure will be put in the hot tub area, allowing residents to legally use the hot tub if the pool is closed. The hot tub will be accessible 24 hrs a day, which I think is absolutely NUTS, but that's my opinion. That's just asking for trouble. Besides, you and I are paying to heat it for the one or two people who may actually take a midnight soak. Remember last year's January freeze? Heck, if any fish start floating in the bay this year, we can pop them into the hot tub to warm them up a bit.

The boaters will finally get electricity at the storage yard so they can charge their boat batteries without bothering the neighbor next door. The annual meeting will be on March 16, 2011. And Chet Hindman was made Vice-President today! A few other things were discussed that would be better not mentioned in this open forum.

The Town Hall meeting will be publicized when the date has been determined. Keep looking for those coupon books. New payment options begin on January 1, 2011. Do NOT send your check to the Office.

Support Your Local Board Members

2010-12-04T02:51:00.004-05:00

Recently, there has been a change of command in our board of directors. Our VP Betty Ridge assumed the office of president after Paul's untimely resignation. There may be an election of the Board of Directors soon to establish a board-determined president to carry us through to the Annual Meeting in March. Or maybe not. We'll see what happens in the days to come.

I do have, however, a very strong recommendation to the shareholders of Regency Cove. Support your Board of Directors. They are forced to make unpopular decisions every month. Just think of yourself in that circumstance. Its a tough and unrewarding job. How would YOU handle the pressure of making decisions that just might put you out of favor with many of the residents? Their job is not to sit there and agree with eachother, but to make tough and thoughtful decisions. That's why we voted for them.

Just in case a new vote for president happens soon, I can only recommend that an experienced and well-seasoned board member assumes the office of president. Inexperienced presidents cost us money with frequent calls to the corporate attorney, and board meeting mistakes. Let's cut it out. I hope the new board takes advantage of the educational opportunites available (ROC Forum, and CAI to a lesser degree). We want the board to make the best decisions for Regency Cove. To all nine of you...Keep up the good work!

Give a hearty Thank You to every board member you see in the days to come. In three more months there will be elections again, and no telling who might be on the board in March of 2011. We're always looking for a few good men and women.

Weather Record Broken Today

2010-11-29T18:24:00.001-05:00

According to Channel 10 News at 6pm, we learned that a weather record was broken today. We officially hit 86 degrees this afternoon, breaking the 1985 record of 85. For you northerners, be advised that the humidity far exceeds the temperature. The sun has set, its dark out there, and all the windows are open. Yeah...you betcha, this is Florida!

We Won The Grant!

2010-11-29T10:48:00.000-05:00

An email has been lingering in my account that had been hacked dated Nov 24, congratulating us for winning the $2500 grant from the Office of Neighborhood Relations for new benches around the park! Yahoo!
Funds for restoring the existing benches was included in the grant as well. The purpose of the grant is to pull the neighborhood together while making a beautification improvement. As before on Blvd 7, volunteers are critical to the success of the project. They will be needed to sand, paint or stain the existing benches, and to assemble to new galvanized metal ones on the point.

Suggestions are welcome how to begin and organize this project. The check will not be in the mail for probably a month.

Christmas Decorating Party

2010-11-28T21:26:00.001-05:00

Shown here are 35 of the fabulous residents who came out today to decorate the hall for Christmas. Its a great feeling to see so many sharing their talents. Alice Disharoon, soon to be new president of the Friendship Club, set up the memory tree yesterday. Pam and John Evans and Earlene Randolph set up the stage trees and tables for the party today. Almost 40 residents participated in some way in the decorating process, and everyone enjoyed the snacks and libations that followed. For more pictures go to the Friendship Club site at:
www.clubregency.blogspot.com.

Pre-Thanksgiving Party

2010-11-24T20:48:00.000-05:00

There was a pre-Thanksgiving party at the point. A couple friends got together for a bite.

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate our differences. Have a great day!

Member's Meeting

2010-11-23T20:21:00.000-05:00

Residents had the opportunity to meet Rick Commons, the CPA who will serve as the new Regency Cove accountant beginning Jan. 1, 2011. He described the coupons that will be mailed out shortly, and explained new payment options. You will have to tear off a coupon, and mail it directly to First Community Bank, or set up an Auto-Pay account allowing the bank to debit your account on the day you specify. Rick fielded many questions from the shareholders. He will be back in December.

The Shareholders' meeting was called to order by President Paul McCumber at 2:13pm. It was well-attended, and it was great to see so many new faces in the room. The necessary Proof of Meeting Notice was read by Cheri. Paul did a t-h-o-r-o-u-g-h explanation of the need for the meeting, explaining fully funded and not fully funded reserves, and finally called for a motion from the membership. I move that the Homes of Regency Cove shareholders waive the reserves required by section 719.104 (4) (b) for the 2011 fiscal/calendar year. Ellen Nimon so moved, and Ron Jeffries seconded the motion. Proxies already counted numbered 325, and another dozen or more shareholdeers voted Yes at the meeting, firmly establishing a majority in favor of waiving. Marie Avant introduced the women who made phone calls to absent shareholders. After lots more discussion and comments from the members, this meeting adjourned.

A Board of Directors' Budget Meeting followed immediately at 2:50. Paul asked for approval of the 2010 Income Forecast and also the 2011 proposed budget. We would have thought that this was already agreed upon by the members of the board, but we learned otherwise. Rose questioned the new format used. Later Marie questioned the amount to pay down the loan, Patti commented on the utilities, and residents voiced many concerns. Some do not want to see excess pre-paying the mortgage. Several defended the employees disliking their wage freeze and benefits reduction.

More than an hour of discussion and negotiations resulted in $3,000 set aside for employee Christmas bonuses, $38k to the mortgage, and a little over $30k to undesignated contingency.

At the meeting's conclusion, Paul made a startling announcement, and resigned from the office of president. He quietly explained that three grandchildren have moved into their home, and he will be unable to spend the time here in the park that the presidential office demands. He will remain on the board, however. Betty Ridge has assumed the office of president at the end of the meeting, and requested cooperation from all of the board.

Members' Meeting Tomorrow

2010-11-22T08:43:00.000-05:00

The first emergency Members' Meeting in recent history will be held tomorrow and we will hear the results of the membership's choice for partial funding or full funding the reserves. I've heard unofficially that the Office has tabulated enough YES votes to guarantee that there will be no maintenance increase this year.

Someone asked why it wasn't posted on the sign out in front? Well, you did receive an official notice in your packet, right?