LETTERS
The World Wide Tangled Web of Laguna Woods Village
Dear Friends,
This is an email exchange I felt you should see in its entirety. Nowhere was it identified as CONFIDENTIAL therefore I am comfortable in sharing it, word for word.
Most importantly, it introduces the subject of an optional form of governance many feel we should look at, and if you start reading the messages from the bottom up, it will also shed some light on the behavior of Mike Straziuso to a fellow board member.
Just scroll down to the line OKAY THIS IS WHERE YOU START READING ...Then work your way up through the interchange. This is one way we can shed some light on what the minority members of THIRD BOARD have to deal with when the TV cameras are not operational as well as some of the discussions that have been going on among various other Board members in the community who are deeply concerned over the direction into which we have been led.
Carol S
KEEP SCROLLING DOWN
From: " carol moore" <carolmoore1234@comline.com>
To: "Mike Straziuso" <mikestraz@comline.com>
Cc: "Lloyd Foster" <lloydf2162@comline.com>,
"Lynne Dvorak" <lynnedvorak@comline.com>,
"Don Tibbetts" <dont@comline.com>,
"maxine mc intosh" <mcfamily@comline.com>,
"patrick murphy" <gempdm@comline.com>,
"Bevan Strom" <strombevan@yahoo.com>,
"Ray Gros" <charay@comline.com>,
"Ken Hammer" <kensexpress@fea.net>,
"pat feeney" <feeneypat@gmail.com>,
"Marv Rosenhaft" <marvr@comline.com>,
"ron beldner" <rabeldner@aol.com>,
"Jack Bassler" <jckbsslr@aol.com>,
"Barbara Howard" <changemanager@comline.com>,
"Barbara Copley" <bjecop@comline.com>,
"Mary Stone" <zmastone@fea.net>,
"Paul Vogel" <MKPRVogel@aol.com>,
"Charles Hammer" <charleshammer33@yahoo.com>,
"Won Ho Chang" <changw37@gmail.com>,
"Denise Welch" <dennywelch@comline.com>,
"isabel muennichow" <isabel@comline.com>,
"Rae Tso" <tsorae@yahoo.com>,
"dick palmer" <palmerichard@fea.net>,
"Lucy Shimon" <lucyshimon@aol.com>,
"Sy Wellikson" <mirsy@fea.net>,
"Kathryn freshley" <kategolfer@comline.com>,
"John Paulus" <johnpaulus1925@comline.com>,
"Erwin Levy" <erwinlevy3@gmail.com>,
"Douglas Rook" <douglas_rook@hotmail.com>,
"Carol Skydell" <cwsinca@comline.com>,
"Connie" <cgrundke@dslextreme.com>,
"Weiming Tao" <weiming.tao@gmail.com>,
"Ted Shapiro" <tedsfolly@comline.com>,
"LeLeng Isaacs" <leisaacs@yahoo.com>,
"TED MARTIN" <TFMLEE@MSN.COM>,
"Jerard Werner" <jbwer@comline.com>,
"Jim Matson" <rsmatlinden@aol.com>,
"Kay Livingston" <kaylivingston@comline.com>
Subject: Re: Self Governance
Date: Wed, 23 May 2012 10:30:01 -0700
X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 6.00.2900.5931
X-PCToolsMIME: Updated by PC Tools Mime Parser 1.0.0.4
X-SmarterMail-TotalSpamWeight: 0 (Authenticated)
To: "Mike Straziuso" <mikestraz@comline.com>
Cc: "Lloyd Foster" <lloydf2162@comline.com>,
"Lynne Dvorak" <lynnedvorak@comline.com>,
"Don Tibbetts" <dont@comline.com>,
"maxine mc intosh" <mcfamily@comline.com>,
"patrick murphy" <gempdm@comline.com>,
"Bevan Strom" <strombevan@yahoo.com>,
"Ray Gros" <charay@comline.com>,
"Ken Hammer" <kensexpress@fea.net>,
"pat feeney" <feeneypat@gmail.com>,
"Marv Rosenhaft" <marvr@comline.com>,
"ron beldner" <rabeldner@aol.com>,
"Jack Bassler" <jckbsslr@aol.com>,
"Barbara Howard" <changemanager@comline.com>,
"Barbara Copley" <bjecop@comline.com>,
"Mary Stone" <zmastone@fea.net>,
"Paul Vogel" <MKPRVogel@aol.com>,
"Charles Hammer" <charleshammer33@yahoo.com>,
"Won Ho Chang" <changw37@gmail.com>,
"Denise Welch" <dennywelch@comline.com>,
"isabel muennichow" <isabel@comline.com>,
"Rae Tso" <tsorae@yahoo.com>,
"dick palmer" <palmerichard@fea.net>,
"Lucy Shimon" <lucyshimon@aol.com>,
"Sy Wellikson" <mirsy@fea.net>,
"Kathryn freshley" <kategolfer@comline.com>,
"John Paulus" <johnpaulus1925@comline.com>,
"Erwin Levy" <erwinlevy3@gmail.com>,
"Douglas Rook" <douglas_rook@hotmail.com>,
"Carol Skydell" <cwsinca@comline.com>,
"Connie" <cgrundke@dslextreme.com>,
"Weiming Tao" <weiming.tao@gmail.com>,
"Ted Shapiro" <tedsfolly@comline.com>,
"LeLeng Isaacs" <leisaacs@yahoo.com>,
"TED MARTIN" <TFMLEE@MSN.COM>,
"Jerard Werner" <jbwer@comline.com>,
"Jim Matson" <rsmatlinden@aol.com>,
"Kay Livingston" <kaylivingston@comline.com>
Subject: Re: Self Governance
Date: Wed, 23 May 2012 10:30:01 -0700
X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 6.00.2900.5931
X-PCToolsMIME: Updated by PC Tools Mime Parser 1.0.0.4
X-SmarterMail-TotalSpamWeight: 0 (Authenticated)
KEEP SCROLLING DOWN
Dear Mike,
I agree with your request that I should provide a platform for discussion regarding self-governance. This email is an attempt to provide an introduction to that concept. Self-Governance has been talked about for several years. It involves simply keeping our current staff but having the general manager report only to this community instead of the current arrangement that requires him to report to us as well as to PCM-CA and also to Associa. You likely know, the community is facing many challenges and a considerable number of those challenges are due to our aging structures. Costs are increasing dramatically as we address maintenance issues such as wide spread dry-rot. We're just beginning the budgeting process and already can see that Third Mutual may well face a $30 a month increase in our assessments. To avoid that, we mustlook for ways to reduce Third Mutual costs and in order to not diminish our maintenance program, we must look elsewhere for savings. One obvious area is administrative costs. The community can save about $400,000 per year by changing to a self-governance program. That would mean that money now paid to PCM-CA/Associa could instead be used to "beef-up" our engineering staff. All other positions would remain. That would mean very little change in the current governance.
Let's look at some of the FAQ's for such a change:
1. What happens if we become employers, aren't we better off letting PCM/Associa handle the employment issue?WE ALREADY ARE EMPLOYERS.. We have letters stating our current obligations and that includes any pension benefit shortfalls.We already have a Human Resources Department. That issue was long-ago decided.
2. What if the boards don't have the expertise to manage this community?THE BOARDS HAVE BEEN MAKING THE DECISIONS from the start. Ultimate decisions have always been made by boards; votes are taken for all major expenditures. Instead of the current three which are the (1) community, (2)PCM-CA, and (3) Associa, a general manager and his employees who are in the employ of this community would have only one master.
3. What about the employees, we love the employees? That doesn't have to change. Only PCM-CA and Associa would be eliminated. All employees who choose to remain would continue to be employed in their current positions and would maintain their current status.
4. Wouldn't employees lose their retirements or their benefits?No, we are currently obligated and make contributions to the employee retirement programs which include 401-Ks as well as Union contractual commitments. We already provide all benefits and pay for them as well as workman's compensation.
5. What about the Shared Cost Concept?
The Shared Cost Concept would not be affected by this change.
6. Isn't this too big a change to make without outside study and advice?
This seems like a big change, and we need to move forward with the advice of GRF counsel, but we have the history and experience of the other Leisure Worlds to use as our guide; e.g. Walnut Creek, Maryland, and Leisure World Arizona. Two of those we have already visited ourselves.
7. Won't we lose important support by not being attached to PCM-CA and Associa?No, we already operate independently and our community is entirely different than most of their clients. Few communities, other than the other Leisure Worlds such as those located in Walnut Creek, Maryland, etc. have employees and are of this size. In addition, participation in industry associations such as CAI would continue. Furthermore, most, if not all of our legal firms offer legislative-change information as a part of their service.
Kathryn Freshley, Lucy Shimon and I traveled to Walnut Creek to see firsthand how the former Leisure World Walnut Creek functions (on our own dime, I must add) We spent several days in meetings with their staff and various board members and toured their facility. While we did not agree with some of their programs, such as the transfer fee, we did observe that self-governance works quite well. We still believe strong reserves are a more sound policy rather than the reliance on transfer fees for the number of sales can affect the amount of money available. Because we have reserves, our community was able to build the Village Greens at a much lower cost than previous other facilities; we did not have to take out a loan and we were able to take advantage of much lower construction costs due to economic conditions. All of this was done with the reserves which are created by our contribution to them in our monthly assessment.
Lloyd Foster and Bevan Strom also made the same junket and came away with their own observations which I believe are similar to ours.
Since it's inception, the community has undergone many changes. Just a few of those many changes which have occurred in recent years include the following:
First, thanks to the former Third Mutual board that had the foresight to establish the reserve study and initiate the 30-year plan, we have a reserve program in place. This program is critical for sustaining our community.
When I first joined the board, the reserves were barely $5 million, now they are approaching $20 million. One of the changes that also helped make the reserve increase possible was elimination of the wasteful earthquake insurance policy. The policy was costing us more than $50,000 per month ($600,000 per year) while providing very little coverage. Instead of paying the premium to the insurance company we voted to put the money into our own bank account and are self-funding earthquake protection. At the time, there was quite an outcry from our former general manager as well as some board members. In fact, the day we voted to make the change, an attorney was present at the order of the then general manager and we were advised we could have possible bank problems as loans could be called in if we were to vote to eliminate the policy (Third Mutual had no loans then or now). There were other threats, but by then the other directors realized that we could pay ourselves that money and ultimately those directors voted with us. Now, even PCM acknowledges the change was sensible and proper; and of course not one of those threats materialized. We know how important reserves are as we face the increasing costs of aging structures. We now have money available to help defray catastrophic losses as well as to help insure appropriate maintenance of our buildings.
A few years ago Stan Feldstein urged us to use the Small Claims Court to recoup some of our debt. There was resistance, but the board voted to test the program. The program has grown and plays a significant part today in our debt recovery program and it's all managed in-house by our employees while being overseen by the Third board.
Three years ago, when we learned we needed to reduce our water consumption the board realized we could "kill two birds with one stone" and we moved to accelerate a front-load washer change out. At the recent M&C budget meeting we were told not only did we save water, we reduced maintenance. That change is now paying off as we are in the last year of that program and as a result of removing the old machines, maintenance costs are down considerably. Even though our water costs have increased, they are considerably lower than they would have been had we not reduced water consumption by changing the old machines.
Thanks to the persistence of Jim Matson, we have our new Village Greens. This action was not only opposed by the former general manager, but also some GRF and mutual directors. That general manager prevented staff from working with Jim to help initiate the process. Fortunately, with Jim's leadership and support the community prevailed, construction occurred, and we have a building the community is proud of. It's a top draw for the Docent Tours.
Due to the observation of Margaret Klein, we changed our investment policy. We now reinvest the interest in our Black Rock account at a substantially higher earnings rate.
Thanks to boards in the past that had the foresight, the community has adjusted to change. When we spend money properly i.e that is when boards vote for long-term change, we're investing and we plan for the future.
I would be happy to discuss this issue more fully with any individual or group that is interested in learning more about the subject.
Just as businesses that don't change are no longer in business, we too must change to successfully meet the challenges or face the consequences.
Respectfully,
Carol Moore
I agree with your request that I should provide a platform for discussion regarding self-governance. This email is an attempt to provide an introduction to that concept. Self-Governance has been talked about for several years. It involves simply keeping our current staff but having the general manager report only to this community instead of the current arrangement that requires him to report to us as well as to PCM-CA and also to Associa. You likely know, the community is facing many challenges and a considerable number of those challenges are due to our aging structures. Costs are increasing dramatically as we address maintenance issues such as wide spread dry-rot. We're just beginning the budgeting process and already can see that Third Mutual may well face a $30 a month increase in our assessments. To avoid that, we mustlook for ways to reduce Third Mutual costs and in order to not diminish our maintenance program, we must look elsewhere for savings. One obvious area is administrative costs. The community can save about $400,000 per year by changing to a self-governance program. That would mean that money now paid to PCM-CA/Associa could instead be used to "beef-up" our engineering staff. All other positions would remain. That would mean very little change in the current governance.
Let's look at some of the FAQ's for such a change:
1. What happens if we become employers, aren't we better off letting PCM/Associa handle the employment issue?WE ALREADY ARE EMPLOYERS.. We have letters stating our current obligations and that includes any pension benefit shortfalls.We already have a Human Resources Department. That issue was long-ago decided.
2. What if the boards don't have the expertise to manage this community?THE BOARDS HAVE BEEN MAKING THE DECISIONS from the start. Ultimate decisions have always been made by boards; votes are taken for all major expenditures. Instead of the current three which are the (1) community, (2)PCM-CA, and (3) Associa, a general manager and his employees who are in the employ of this community would have only one master.
3. What about the employees, we love the employees? That doesn't have to change. Only PCM-CA and Associa would be eliminated. All employees who choose to remain would continue to be employed in their current positions and would maintain their current status.
4. Wouldn't employees lose their retirements or their benefits?No, we are currently obligated and make contributions to the employee retirement programs which include 401-Ks as well as Union contractual commitments. We already provide all benefits and pay for them as well as workman's compensation.
5. What about the Shared Cost Concept?
The Shared Cost Concept would not be affected by this change.
6. Isn't this too big a change to make without outside study and advice?
This seems like a big change, and we need to move forward with the advice of GRF counsel, but we have the history and experience of the other Leisure Worlds to use as our guide; e.g. Walnut Creek, Maryland, and Leisure World Arizona. Two of those we have already visited ourselves.
7. Won't we lose important support by not being attached to PCM-CA and Associa?No, we already operate independently and our community is entirely different than most of their clients. Few communities, other than the other Leisure Worlds such as those located in Walnut Creek, Maryland, etc. have employees and are of this size. In addition, participation in industry associations such as CAI would continue. Furthermore, most, if not all of our legal firms offer legislative-change information as a part of their service.
Kathryn Freshley, Lucy Shimon and I traveled to Walnut Creek to see firsthand how the former Leisure World Walnut Creek functions (on our own dime, I must add) We spent several days in meetings with their staff and various board members and toured their facility. While we did not agree with some of their programs, such as the transfer fee, we did observe that self-governance works quite well. We still believe strong reserves are a more sound policy rather than the reliance on transfer fees for the number of sales can affect the amount of money available. Because we have reserves, our community was able to build the Village Greens at a much lower cost than previous other facilities; we did not have to take out a loan and we were able to take advantage of much lower construction costs due to economic conditions. All of this was done with the reserves which are created by our contribution to them in our monthly assessment.
Lloyd Foster and Bevan Strom also made the same junket and came away with their own observations which I believe are similar to ours.
Since it's inception, the community has undergone many changes. Just a few of those many changes which have occurred in recent years include the following:
First, thanks to the former Third Mutual board that had the foresight to establish the reserve study and initiate the 30-year plan, we have a reserve program in place. This program is critical for sustaining our community.
When I first joined the board, the reserves were barely $5 million, now they are approaching $20 million. One of the changes that also helped make the reserve increase possible was elimination of the wasteful earthquake insurance policy. The policy was costing us more than $50,000 per month ($600,000 per year) while providing very little coverage. Instead of paying the premium to the insurance company we voted to put the money into our own bank account and are self-funding earthquake protection. At the time, there was quite an outcry from our former general manager as well as some board members. In fact, the day we voted to make the change, an attorney was present at the order of the then general manager and we were advised we could have possible bank problems as loans could be called in if we were to vote to eliminate the policy (Third Mutual had no loans then or now). There were other threats, but by then the other directors realized that we could pay ourselves that money and ultimately those directors voted with us. Now, even PCM acknowledges the change was sensible and proper; and of course not one of those threats materialized. We know how important reserves are as we face the increasing costs of aging structures. We now have money available to help defray catastrophic losses as well as to help insure appropriate maintenance of our buildings.
A few years ago Stan Feldstein urged us to use the Small Claims Court to recoup some of our debt. There was resistance, but the board voted to test the program. The program has grown and plays a significant part today in our debt recovery program and it's all managed in-house by our employees while being overseen by the Third board.
Three years ago, when we learned we needed to reduce our water consumption the board realized we could "kill two birds with one stone" and we moved to accelerate a front-load washer change out. At the recent M&C budget meeting we were told not only did we save water, we reduced maintenance. That change is now paying off as we are in the last year of that program and as a result of removing the old machines, maintenance costs are down considerably. Even though our water costs have increased, they are considerably lower than they would have been had we not reduced water consumption by changing the old machines.
Thanks to the persistence of Jim Matson, we have our new Village Greens. This action was not only opposed by the former general manager, but also some GRF and mutual directors. That general manager prevented staff from working with Jim to help initiate the process. Fortunately, with Jim's leadership and support the community prevailed, construction occurred, and we have a building the community is proud of. It's a top draw for the Docent Tours.
Due to the observation of Margaret Klein, we changed our investment policy. We now reinvest the interest in our Black Rock account at a substantially higher earnings rate.
Thanks to boards in the past that had the foresight, the community has adjusted to change. When we spend money properly i.e that is when boards vote for long-term change, we're investing and we plan for the future.
I would be happy to discuss this issue more fully with any individual or group that is interested in learning more about the subject.
Just as businesses that don't change are no longer in business, we too must change to successfully meet the challenges or face the consequences.
Respectfully,
Carol Moore
KEEP SCROLLING DOWN, YOU'RE NOT AT THE START YET
----- Original Message -----
From: Mike Straziuso
To: Carol Moore
Cc: Lloyd Foster ; Lynne Dvorak ; Don Tibbetts ; maxine mc intosh ; patrick murphy ; Bevan Strom ; Ray Gros ; Ken Hammer ;pat feeney ; Marv Rosenhaft ; ron beldner ; Jack Bassler ; Barbara Howard ; Barbara Copley ; Mary Stone ; heather gerson ; Paul Vogel ; cbrians@aol.com ; rturner2u@gmail.com ; Charles Hammer ; Won Ho Chang ; Denise Welch ; isabel muennichow ; Rae Tso ; Carol Moore ; dick palmer ; Lucy Shimon ; Sy Wellikson ; Kathryn freshley ; John Paulus ; Erwin Levy
Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2012 8:12 PM
Subject: secret meeting
Lloyd,
Never argue with a fool, it's like arguing with a pig; it frustrates you and it annoys the pig.
Carol
OKAY THIS IS WHERE YOU START READING THEN WORK YOUR WAY UPWARDS THROUGH THE OTHER MESSAGES
Carol,
As the President of the Third Mutual Board, a position you yourself held last year, I am making a formal request for any information you may have regarding the so-called “secret meeting” and your participation in this event. I am doing this to protect the board against any potential claims of “interference with contractual relations” or a violation of fiduciary duties; namely the duty of loyalty.
I am extremely sorry that you chose to enter the discussion (see above) that was initiated by Lucy Shimon about my communication with Lloyd. You just don’t understand that it is not all about you and your agenda. It appears that you cannot state your case without innuendo, snarky comments and allegedly manufactured legal opinions of dubious veracity and value.
If you have evidence that PCM has violated the law, our trust and their fiduciary duties, present it in the proper forum.
If you have a plan for self-management, place it on the table where it can be examined in a businesslike manner.
If you have a problem with another person, state your case, back it with evidence and discuss it like an adult.
Might I suggest that you keep your snarky comments to yourself, lest you embarrass yourself further and further insult the intelligence of those who are forced to read your diatribes.
Might I further suggest that you do not openly insult invited guests to our Board Meetings using subtle digs or showing complete disinterest in the proceedings by filing your nails, reading emails on your ipad or engaging in other unbecoming behaviors unworthy of a board member.
If you have a position, please state it clearly; separating the points so that each can be fully considered and debated.
Leave the playground behavior where it belongs ...
Mike
|
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Conduct constituted malice, oppression, or fraud and committed by one or more officers, directors or managing agents of the HOA - Presiding Juror Earlier this week a jury in a case filed in Superior Court of California Riverside, a jury ruled in favor...
GRF 2009 Budget Review, Be There or Be Out of Luck!
Letter from LWV resident M. Curtis inviting concerned residents: Tomorrow (Tuesday, July 22) at 9AM, in the Community Center Board Room, GRF will have a Special Corporate (all boards) meeting to review next year's budget. See the...
Letter from LWV resident M. Curtis inviting concerned residents: Tomorrow (Tuesday, July 22) at 9AM, in the Community Center Board Room, GRF will have a Special Corporate (all boards) meeting to review next year's budget. See the...
Different Homeowners Association, Same Issues
I assume that you are a member of the Walnut Creek Leisure World Association, or is this another HOA in the area? We have had many comments of similar problems by HOA's who happen to run into our website and I'm glad that you contacted me
I assume that you are a member of the Walnut Creek Leisure World Association, or is this another HOA in the area? We have had many comments of similar problems by HOA's who happen to run into our website and I'm glad that you contacted me
The Right LWV Leadership for Such a Time as This?
Is this general manager (Milt Johns) over his head in his management skills? Can someone come out with only experience from the garden to manage a 90 million dollar business without a conflict of interest? When is the last time Mr. Johns lowered our costs...
Is this general manager (Milt Johns) over his head in his management skills? Can someone come out with only experience from the garden to manage a 90 million dollar business without a conflict of interest? When is the last time Mr. Johns lowered our costs...
Working to Serve, Or Serving To Work - Letter to OC Register Columnist
Another good column. I was wondering if there was ever any serious consideration to any non-union government employee for the position of publicly elected Sheriff by either the Register or Supervisors? That is all I see in your Top Five selection and...
Another good column. I was wondering if there was ever any serious consideration to any non-union government employee for the position of publicly elected Sheriff by either the Register or Supervisors? That is all I see in your Top Five selection and...
To Destroy a Community, or to Destroy the Status Quo?XThat is the Question in this Letter to the Menifee SCCA Board of Directors
First of all I have no intentions or no desire to destroy "our community". However, I must ask you to please define what you think the community is, what it is you think I am threatening to destroy?Secondly, Sun City has been declared a "blighted...
First of all I have no intentions or no desire to destroy "our community". However, I must ask you to please define what you think the community is, what it is you think I am threatening to destroy?Secondly, Sun City has been declared a "blighted...
HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION TITLEHOLDERS ARE "HUMAN CAPITAL"
by D. Vanitzian(c) 2007 Donie VanitzianWhen criminal liability is not charged against the "criminals" in an association, then the titleholders become the Human Capital used to fund the criminal activities and wrongdoing.
by D. Vanitzian(c) 2007 Donie VanitzianWhen criminal liability is not charged against the "criminals" in an association, then the titleholders become the Human Capital used to fund the criminal activities and wrongdoing.
HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS: A CLUB YOU DON'T WANT TO BELONG TO
This ain't no party! This ain't no disco! This ain't no community!
This ain't no party! This ain't no disco! This ain't no community!
Dare's role in Pastures cost association $100,000
By BRENDAN J. LYONS, Senior writer First published: Sunday, Times Union August 12, 2007. Republished with permissionAugust 12, 2007 ALBANY -- An advocate for the Historic Pastures Homeowners Association, which lost more than $100,000 in...
By BRENDAN J. LYONS, Senior writer First published: Sunday, Times Union August 12, 2007. Republished with permissionAugust 12, 2007 ALBANY -- An advocate for the Historic Pastures Homeowners Association, which lost more than $100,000 in...
HIRING AN ATTORNEY CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH LEGAL
BLACKMAIL--TAKING CLIENTS HOSTAGE- Q: How can you tell when an attorney is lying? A. His lips are moving.August 10, 2007 If California can place caps on spending and caps on fees of various types of businesses -- then it needs to put caps...
BLACKMAIL--TAKING CLIENTS HOSTAGE- Q: How can you tell when an attorney is lying? A. His lips are moving.August 10, 2007 If California can place caps on spending and caps on fees of various types of businesses -- then it needs to put caps...
BRING BACK GOVERNOR PETE WILSON
by Donie Vanitzian, JD(c) 2007 D. VanitzianYou can?t have a good old boys and girls club without a little help from friends in high places, of course, a little help from California?s State Bar wouldn?t hurt either. [FN1]Forget for a moment that the term...
by Donie Vanitzian, JD(c) 2007 D. VanitzianYou can?t have a good old boys and girls club without a little help from friends in high places, of course, a little help from California?s State Bar wouldn?t hurt either. [FN1]Forget for a moment that the term...
Should I stay or should I go - in/from my HOA? X
First was the Delegate?s Corner blasting CZ Master Association board of director?s critics for speaking out against a corrupt delegate system and electoral process in favor of direct elections, consistent with current legislation, and consistent with the...
First was the Delegate?s Corner blasting CZ Master Association board of director?s critics for speaking out against a corrupt delegate system and electoral process in favor of direct elections, consistent with current legislation, and consistent with the...
Casta Courier Coverage of Unhappy Campers at Leisure World
I'd like to comment on the following paragraph that was in your publication "The Casta Courier" on July 19, 2007. The second paragraph reads as follows:
I'd like to comment on the following paragraph that was in your publication "The Casta Courier" on July 19, 2007. The second paragraph reads as follows:
SPENDING OTHER PEOPLE?S MONEY by Donie Vanitzian, JDX(c) 2007 Vanitzian
I mean really! How difficult is it to spend other people?s money? Cheech!! It?s a no brainer, especially with no statutory accountability. "Hey man, it ain't difficult" one board member tells me, he says "no one gives s**t." He proceeds to point to his...
I mean really! How difficult is it to spend other people?s money? Cheech!! It?s a no brainer, especially with no statutory accountability. "Hey man, it ain't difficult" one board member tells me, he says "no one gives s**t." He proceeds to point to his...
Critics do not attend board meetings - GRF that is!
Critics do not attend Home Owner Association Meetings to learn of actions deemed necessary by their Board!August 6, 2007 Critics are principally individuals who fail to attend Home Owner Association Meetings to learn of actions deemed necessary...
Critics do not attend Home Owner Association Meetings to learn of actions deemed necessary by their Board!August 6, 2007 Critics are principally individuals who fail to attend Home Owner Association Meetings to learn of actions deemed necessary...
The New Seven, err... Eight Wonders of the World
CZ's definition for leadership is that whenever questions are raised, the canned response is ?Remember the Reserves?! Now CZ Spin Machine has to be the Eight Wonder of the World!- August 6, 2007 The results of the NOWC?s New Seven Wonders of...
CZ's definition for leadership is that whenever questions are raised, the canned response is ?Remember the Reserves?! Now CZ Spin Machine has to be the Eight Wonder of the World!- August 6, 2007 The results of the NOWC?s New Seven Wonders of...
"TWIN RIVERS" = "TRIPLE PROBLEMS"
Note to the do-gooders whose glasses are corrupted by the half-full half-empty circular-argument nonsense and who want only to hear the good-of-it-all and nothing too depressing, oh, and want only smiley ha-ha journalism: Go grab your teddy bears and...
Note to the do-gooders whose glasses are corrupted by the half-full half-empty circular-argument nonsense and who want only to hear the good-of-it-all and nothing too depressing, oh, and want only smiley ha-ha journalism: Go grab your teddy bears and...
Lawyer seeking condominiums' business goes over the line
Question: I manage a large condominium project in Los Angeles. Unsolicited, an attorney sent me an invitation to meet with him over lunch. He then phoned me several times, including the day before the lunch, explaining the purpose was to speak only with...
Question: I manage a large condominium project in Los Angeles. Unsolicited, an attorney sent me an invitation to meet with him over lunch. He then phoned me several times, including the day before the lunch, explaining the purpose was to speak only with...
CONDOMINIUMS ARE A GREAT INVESTMENT- FOR LAWYERS
About every two months I get a call, or a client comes in to ask me about condominiums. It usually starts off with, ?I bought this adorable little condo? and then the upstairs neighbor had a flood?. And then the Homeowners Association refused??
About every two months I get a call, or a client comes in to ask me about condominiums. It usually starts off with, ?I bought this adorable little condo? and then the upstairs neighbor had a flood?. And then the Homeowners Association refused??
Paraphrasing the LA Times on Defeat of SB670 & Wicked Twin Witches of the West - SB 127 & AB-980
Taking a page out of the OC Register?s ?paraphrased reporting?, an article written by LA Times staff writer Diane Weder titled ?Bill to limit transfer fee founders?, published appropriately on May 13, 2007, quotes the president of the statewide Realtors...
Taking a page out of the OC Register?s ?paraphrased reporting?, an article written by LA Times staff writer Diane Weder titled ?Bill to limit transfer fee founders?, published appropriately on May 13, 2007, quotes the president of the statewide Realtors...
Private Transfer Tax - Good for the Common Interest Development (HOA/CID) Industry or Good for the Politicians?
When we received our copy of the report that the California Association of Realtors (CAR) used to Sponsor and help draft transfer fees, we were confused. Given that Vanitzian has become an icon in Sacrament (some say a thorn in the legislature's side),...
When we received our copy of the report that the California Association of Realtors (CAR) used to Sponsor and help draft transfer fees, we were confused. Given that Vanitzian has become an icon in Sacrament (some say a thorn in the legislature's side),...
Management company's tape-recording tactic puts homeowners at risk
Question: Because our management company has been sued before, it has a policy of recording all incoming and outgoing phone calls. Before a management employee answers the phone, there is an automatic announcement warning callers they are being recorded....
Question: Because our management company has been sued before, it has a policy of recording all incoming and outgoing phone calls. Before a management employee answers the phone, there is an automatic announcement warning callers they are being recorded....
Of Trial Lawyers, the AAJ and the Democratic Party
The National College of Advocacy and AAJ Education maintain two distinct programs that recognize AAJ lawyer member efforts in pursuit of advanced legal learning and professional development?the Achievement Recognition Program and Advanced Studies in Trial...
The National College of Advocacy and AAJ Education maintain two distinct programs that recognize AAJ lawyer member efforts in pursuit of advanced legal learning and professional development?the Achievement Recognition Program and Advanced Studies in Trial...
Laguna Woods Village CC&Rs, What CC&Rs? I Got Your CC&Rs Right Here!
Coto de Caza is not the only place where the board of directors consistently either disregard the civil code, governing documents (Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions - CC&Rs) or even the moral code.
Coto de Caza is not the only place where the board of directors consistently either disregard the civil code, governing documents (Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions - CC&Rs) or even the moral code.
What is better in HOA Management? Transparency and Accountability or Feel Good?May 22, 2007
Mostly as a result of the Enron and Worldcom scandals, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 known as the Public Company Accounting Reform and Investor Protection Act of 2002 and commonly called SOX; was enacted to provide business executives with less wiggle...
Mostly as a result of the Enron and Worldcom scandals, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 known as the Public Company Accounting Reform and Investor Protection Act of 2002 and commonly called SOX; was enacted to provide business executives with less wiggle...
HOW DO OWNERS SPELL L-A-W S-U-I-T? SENATE BILL NO. 127!X
This author asks WHERE ARE THE PENALTIES AGAINST MANAGEMENT COMPANIES AND BOARDS? WHAT?S THE PENALTY FOR BREAKING THE LAWS THAT THESE LEGISLATORS ARE PASSING?
This author asks WHERE ARE THE PENALTIES AGAINST MANAGEMENT COMPANIES AND BOARDS? WHAT?S THE PENALTY FOR BREAKING THE LAWS THAT THESE LEGISLATORS ARE PASSING?
Two of the Worst & Most Detrimental Laws to Hit California are Sponsored by None Other than: California Association of Realtors (R) The Gold is Gone --No more gold in the Golden State!
Dear Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger,
SHATZI! PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR PROMISE TO US. Please listen to the people who support you and look to you to help us! When you first began buying property in California NO ONE told you what you could or could not do...
Dear Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger,
SHATZI! PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR PROMISE TO US. Please listen to the people who support you and look to you to help us! When you first began buying property in California NO ONE told you what you could or could not do...
THE LAW OF INTENDED CONSEQUENCES - WHAT A DIFFERENCE A "WORD" MAKES: NO! ON ASSEMBLY BILL NO. 563
It apparently does not matter that titleholders with a vested interest in their property cannot get their legislators to carry legislation to help US, but, they can waste taxpayer funds by preventing the bills WE WANT and NEED by CHANGING *ONE* WORD in an...
It apparently does not matter that titleholders with a vested interest in their property cannot get their legislators to carry legislation to help US, but, they can waste taxpayer funds by preventing the bills WE WANT and NEED by CHANGING *ONE* WORD in an...
EMERGENCY! EMERGENCY! OOPS! WE JUST HAD THE MEETING! YOU MISSED IT!!
So THIS is what the Senate calls an "Open Meeting." How many Open Meetings have THEY been to? Obviously not many. ROTFLMAO!
So THIS is what the Senate calls an "Open Meeting." How many Open Meetings have THEY been to? Obviously not many. ROTFLMAO!
CAN YOU OUTSWIM YOUR HOA SHARKS? or will you drown trying?
Owning, let alone living in an HOA is a tough JOB and requires you be physically fit, possess a certain sophistication of the processes, and have the character let alone stamina, that allows you to be persistent in a manner that indescribable to REAL...
Owning, let alone living in an HOA is a tough JOB and requires you be physically fit, possess a certain sophistication of the processes, and have the character let alone stamina, that allows you to be persistent in a manner that indescribable to REAL...
HEY GRAY PANTHERS! YOU GOT IT WRONG!
(c) D. Vanitzian
May 16, 2007The Gray Panthers are on record as SUPPORTING A BAD BAD BAD BAD BILL: Senate Bill Number 948. SHAME ON YOU. Where the heck are you getting your information from?
(c) D. Vanitzian
May 16, 2007The Gray Panthers are on record as SUPPORTING A BAD BAD BAD BAD BILL: Senate Bill Number 948. SHAME ON YOU. Where the heck are you getting your information from?
The Law of Unintended Consequences: Legislation and HOA BOD Cause and Effect: Clueless in my CAR Coming off a most improbable but successful campaign to defeat SB 670 author and HOA advocate Vanitizian thanks supporters making a connection between the quality of legislation being passed in Sacramento, and the quality of life in most homeowners...
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