Any Committee Updates?

If anyone has information on either of the committee meetings that took place this week could you please update us on what was discussed? I'm sure those who couldn't attend are interested, I know I am. Any updates on the Garage Conversions or Security Issues?

Here is an update from the Landscape Committee Meeting held yesterday (Thanks to Saul and Joe for submitting the update):

Recap of (02/28/08) discussion on the following topics. Noted with an asterisk (*) are the concerns discussed with the converter, need firm completion date from the converter.

*1) Painting utility doors

*2) Removal of sales signs in front of office

*3) Dumpster removal within the week

*4) Pick-up bricks, stones and debris behind parking space

5) Adam to finalize parking space documentation for homeowner distribution. Need firm implementation date

6) Unit Q2 upstairs hand rail loose, safety issue

7) Get pending quote from landscaper for trimming front and back boogie? plant that over hangs in front of office

8) Signs needed for pool and parking spaces

9) All car ports must be free of outside storage items

10) All upper car ports storage color to be consistent throughout

11) Met with arbor rep. to get revised quote on tree and stump removal

12) Converter to paint/touch-up throughout M.V. complex as needed per discussion

Monterey Villa Parking Tags Concerns Due To Liability, This is not an official decision simply a possibility: Homeowner responsibility to maintain proper use of his/her parking permit. Improper use or abuse of parking tag(s) privilege such as to sell, lend or exchange is in violation between the Monterey Villas HOA and homeowner/tenant signed agreement. Each numbered and assigned parking permit is cross reference to each specific unit number along with its current tenant name.

Timeout!!! Converters Trying to Fill Empty Condos with Renters

I was going to just update my last post but thanks to Brian and Mashimel27 this is on a whole new level. I'm sure we have all felt some sort of deception since moving into MV but this one takes the cake. Brian posted this craiglist link, http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/apa/588075766.html. That's right, they are trying to attract renters to the empty condos. As Mashimel27 pointed out this is a "No, No." How can we expect this place to get better if we let the converters turn parts of it into an apartment complex? I was going to say that the board shouldn't allow this but I realized that the converter is the board! Please voice your disapproval on this matter.

Oh Those Sneaky Converters

I forgot to post this in the recap of our past association meeting; when asked if we could finally take down the $200,000 for sale sign in front of the clubhouse, one of the members of the Converters said that we could not because they still haven't sold all of the properties. There are still 14 condos for sale. Some of the auction winners who were at the meeting were puzzled because they thought they picked up what was left. I know that the starting bid at the auction was $140,000 but I was interested in knowing how much some of them actually went for, would anyone like to share? It would be interesting to see how well the Converters did at this game of poker.

July 25, 2008

I try to promote a new movie at least once a week, and this is one that just couldn't wait. I've been trying to get some info on this for awhile now and finally here's some..

Mark it on your calendar, because that’s the release date for the new X-Files movie. Apparently, at the recent WonderCon, people who sat in on a Q&A session with X-Files stars Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny were treated to a short teaser trailer for the movie, which ended with a release date. So of course, that trailer has now made its way onto the internet in shaky, handicam form. I have no idea what the film is about, but I already know I’ll be there on opening day.

Blog Fliers

I'm not sure if the fliers I put up are coming down purposely or accidentally but it will not stop me from promoting this blog. It would be nice if the board would post my flier in the glass case next to the mailboxes but until then I'll have to do the work myself. 1,500 hits and going proves that residents are interested on what is posted here. Once Again I'll say that this blog is not intended to offend anyone but rather to improve communication amongst residents at the Monterey Villas.

Action already being taken!

The safety committee appears to be on the ball, Joe updated us this morning telling us, "Just to keep everyone up to date, I've contacted a couple different contractors about the garages and hope to meet with them within a next week or so."

Upcoming Committee Meetings:
Social Committee - Tuesday Night
Archiectectual Committee - Thursday
If the members could please keep us updated we'd appreciate it...

Februrary Association Meeting Recap

Last nights meeting went fairly well, I apologize for not having our finances because I got to the meeting a couple minutes late, but I did hear Charity say that we made over $2,000 in investments for last month. She also mentioned the blog and said that it is not endorsed by the association. Lets get this straight, I'm not looking for the association to endorse this blog, I started it as a way of communication between residents. Charity then went over service contracts that needed to be discussed.

Some of the contracts that were discussed were landscaping, tree trimming, lighting, cleaning, and the all important laundry service. It was difficult to understand whether or not the board approved the landscaping, tree trimming, and cleaning contracts or if they were going to be negotiated a little more. The lighting contract was approved so we should have our lighting inspected and fixed on a monthly basis. The laundry contract was a personal concern of mine and I'm sad to say that we still have to deal with our current provider, Coin Mach. Before you get upset please understand that this is not the board's fault. When Charity told Coin Mach that we would be terminating service with them they told her we are bound by contract with them for another 2 years. The board is considering taking legal action against Coin Mach due to their failure to maintain and service the machines at Monterey Villas in a timely manner. The board will review the cost of legal aid and determine if it would be in our best interest to terminate Coin Mach's contract or modify it.

After the contracts were discussed each committee gave a summary as to progress they've made over the last month and what they hoped to see in the coming month.

Adam spoke on behalf of the Architectural Committee. He gave us information about the approved window replacer, Sierra Window Concepts and that they have received applications for satellite dishes and windows. He also informed us that they will be sending out resident specific violation notices. Violations would cover satellite dishes, BBQ's, and more. The parking permit situation is still in the works.

Adriana spoke on behalf of the Social Committee and said that they are meeting next Tuesday at 7pm to discuss the establishment of activities for our residents such as: sport tournaments and parties. Which I believe is a great idea.

Joe spoke on behalf of the Safety Committee and told us that the safety committee has been very proactive over the past month trying to get bids in for security cameras. They were able to obtain the bids and they were submitted to the board. He also passed around a map with the possible placement of the cameras. I will try to obtain the map and post it here. The safety committee is also trying to establish stats of the crimes in our community, and I spoke to Joe about possible collaborating to help them.

After the committees spoke the floor was open for community discussion. Community discussion began in an organized fashion but quickly got out of hand with interruptions and outbursts. I'll list and give a brief summary of the concerns and ideas that were brought to the table:

1. Termites in the Carports
   
   • A termite inspection is needed for the carports and facility in general
     
2. Moldy Units
   
   • Mold in the units is caused by the paint the converters used. To eliminate the mold you need to clean it first by using a industrial strength mold remover and then paint over it with semi-gloss paint. I feel like the converter should eat this cost but that's just my opinion.
     
3. The Poop Shoot Balcony
   
   • Interesting title huh, there was a resident who asked for the boards' help with a neighbor complaint. Apparently there is an upstairs resident who has a dog that pees and poops on the balcony and it falls through the floorboards onto the downstairs neighbors' porch. If that's not enough the upstairs resident then hoses down their balcony creating an even more disgusting and not to mention unhealthy seen downstairs. We had the unpleasant pleasure of viewing images from this situation. The board agree that action needs to be taken and is going to set up a hearing with both parties. If that does not work we could see a CIVIL LAWSUIT between the parties.
     
4. Carport to Garage Conversion
   
   • A resident suggested that the board look into building Garages. This was brought on by the constant vehicle thefts which have taken place over the 18 months. The safety committee volunteered to take on the task of meeting with a vendor to discuss the possibility and cost of the project and we hope to hear the results at our next meeting.
     
5. Take Your Trash to the Dumpsters
   
   • Resident and janitorial service provider Maria asked that residents not dump their household garbage into the trash cans along the walkways.
     
6. Broken Washing Machines
   
   • Be advised that the janitorial service is not responsible for the washers and dryers, if they are broken post it here or contact Coin Mach or Charity.
     
7. Parking Permits
   
   • As Adam stated earlier the parking procedure is still not concrete and are still being discussed.
     

Last Call..Meeting Tonight 7pm Clubhouse

Hope I'm not bothering anyone with the Association Meeting Reminders but I just want to see some new faces there tonight. Tonight is the night to show support for where you live. Don't let the board make a decision without hearing from you first. We all need to do our part to make this place better. VOICE YOUR IDEAS AND SUPPORT OUR BLOG!!!

Vantage Point

Do you like movies that keep you guessing till the end? Well, Vantage Point is one that delivers. Vantage Point is narrated movie is about an attempted assassination on the President told from eight different perspectives. Check out the trailer below.

Association Meeting Tomorrow Night

Tomorrow Night the Association will hold its monthly meeting in the Clubhouse. The meeting starts promptly at 7pm with the board members meeting at 6:30. I encourage all residents to attend.

If you haven't been to a meeting yet, this is the general structure:

1. The board opens by going over the finances
2. Charity, Our Property Mgm. Rep., discusses current issues
3. We hear from each Committee:
   
   • Architectural and Landscaping
   • Social
   • Safety
4. OPEN DISCUSSION!

This is a great place to meet your fellow neighbors and express your concerns.
If you can't make it don't worry, I will have a recap of the meeting here.

Clubhouse Use

Who here hasn't wanted to play a game of pool in the clubhouse?

Okay, I know this has been something that has gone around the discussion block for sometime now but changes need to be made for use of the clubhouse. Reserving the clubhouse for parties is cool by me, but as residents we should have access to it all other times like the gym and pool.

The board has pulled the liability issue every time this subject arises, but what's the difference between the clubhouse and the gym or pool?

This is how I feel access to the clubhouse should work:

• The current reservation requirements would stay.
• On non-reservation days the clubhouse would be open to all residents for general use. (general use would exclude the clubhouse kitchen)
  
• On reservation days the clubhouse would be off limits to residents not leasing it for that day.
  
• A clubhouse reservation calendar would be posted in two locations: near the mailboxes, by the clubhouse or on the blog.

What do you think about the fact that we don't have access to our own clubhouse?

Your Input!

What would you like to see on our blog? Do you feel like something is missing, let me know what it is? My goal for this blog is to make it a one stop spot for your local needs? I've tried to do so by placing the weather forecast on our blog but I need your input to make this complete. Some things I've thought about placing on the blog are sport scores, movie listings and a restaurant guide.

Kimbo vs. Tank

If you're not a fan of art but still need something to do, you can catch this MMA fight on Showtime. This is going to be an all out brawl...

Need Something to Do Tonight, Local Artwalk

February Art Walk

Although it feels early, tonight is in fact the third Saturday of the month—Art Walk Night!

If you haven't done so already, stop by the Santiago Street Lofts after sundown to check out some great art and meet some of the awesome people that make living here a treat.

Here's a list of the galleries that are open tonight:

Curbside Gallery
928 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
Artist: Dan Rhoades

Salu Gallery
919 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
Photography by Karen Lewis

Liberty Fine Arts
921 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
Artist: David Ehlen (the heart of the matter)

Gallery 675 (grand opening)
675 Poinsettia St. (interior/south side)
Artist: Christine Eyer

J. Lewis Gallery
906 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
Fine Art by: John Lewis

712 N. Santiago St.
Art from the Hive

916 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
Photography by: Jason Nguyen/Julie Shen

UPDATE: A gallery directory can be downloaded here.

Neighbor Complaints

Is there something that your neighbor does that just annoys you? And you're too nice to tell them, but you really hope they'd stop? Well hope no more, here is the chance to do it? If you have a complaint about one of your fellow neighbors post it here and hopefully they'll read it and stop. There is no need to be specific...Here's an example:

• In the morning my neighbor takes so long in the shower that by the time I get in, there is no more hot water.

Use the Comments link below and I'll post them to the front page.

Added Complaints:

• My neighbor has a dog that barks all day long, usually it wouldn't bother me but I work nights and that dog doesn't let me sleep.

Crime Does Pay!

This is a must read post by Ben Dayhoe over at the Santiago Street Lofts.

By: Ben Dayhoe

If you recall a couple of weeks ago, a tagger decided to take a gamble and spray paint a unit at the Santiago Street Lofts. Well, that gamble he took paid off—me that is.


Mixed in with my usual magazine subscription renewals in yesterday's mail was this nice little "refund check" from the city of Santa Ana's Graffiti Reward Program.

I was shocked to see the reward arrive so soon after the incident. The last check from the previous tagger I caught with the help of an awesome neighbor (yes, catching taggers is now a part-time job for me) took about 9 months to process.

I'm really hoping that this was the last time a kid decides to deface someone's home in our community—but it probably won't be.

I'm tired of hearing the lame-ass excuse that they tagged our homes because they "thought our homes were businesses"—it’s vandalism and it makes no difference to me.

I wish that they would stop trying to explain to me that all they are trying to do is get some "respect", when they are blind to see that defacing someone's property is probably the worst way to achieve that goal.

You want some respect? Don't write on the walls, sidewalks, buildings or trees, and you've got my respect.

Indiana Jones IV Trailer

Here's the trailer for the most anticipated movie of all time, at least for me: Indiana Jones IV. We knew there are going to be aliens and Soviet soldiers led by Cate Blanchett, but one thing is seeing those made of LEGO and the other is to actually see how all looks like. Which is, amazing. Let's hope it is as good as it feels now. And yes, there are no weird mechanical traps and gadgets on the trailer, but this is Indiana Jones, people. There's nothing higher. Update: official video is up. [Yahoo Trailers]

Valentine's Day, Don't Worry It's Not Too Late!

In case you forgot, its tomorrow! Don't worry this should cover everything!

Your guide to Cupid's favorite holiday, complete with a barbershop quartet.

WINE AND DINE YOUR SWEETHEART
Where to eat: A sampling of Orange County restaurants planning special Valentine's Day menus.

• View the complete Valentine's Day dining guide
  

FUN STUFF FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

"My Funny Valentine" contest: Voting for the contest has concluded. Check back here tomorrow to see the top five Valentine submissions. » You can still share a photo and some loving words

• Valentine's quiz, dining and shopping edition: Do you know which O.C. restaurant is offering free tequilas for the holiday?
• Valentine's Day interactive graphic:  What do a pagan fertility festival, mating birds, martyred saints, candy hearts and brain chemistry have in common? Feb. 14. » View the graphic

FOOD TO GET YOU IN THE MOOD

It's all about chocolate: Local pastry chefs and confection fans select their favorites from 17 chocolates. Also get tips on buying chocolate. » Read the story and get recipes

• Suicide by chocolate: Chocoholic Ellen Crawford hosts an annual Valentine's party showcasing homemade chocolate desserts.  » Read the story and get the recipe for Suicide Chocolate Cake
  
• Food aphrodisiacs:  Fact, fiction, or just plain fun? » Find out
• Last-minute chocolates easy to make:  A homemade gift is still possible at the last minute. » Read the story and get the recipes

VALENTINE STORIES

Do you remember your second  first kiss? A high school flame gets rekindled after four decades. » Read the story

• 50 years of marriage? These couples must be experts of love: Three couples with more than 50 years of marriage share their secrets for a successful relationship.  » Read the story
• Cheating hearts keep Laguna Beach private investigators busy: For private investigators, the week of Feb. 14 is big business for catching potential cheaters. » Read the story
• First kiss? Readers tell stories of their magic moment. » Read the story
  

PLAN YOUR ROMANTIC EVENING

Romance:  Plan a romantic evening that's the right 'match' for you and your loved one.

• Get tips on picking the right getaway spot for you and your Valentine
  

GIFTS FOR YOUR VALENTINE

Barbershop Quartet for Valentine's Day?: Nothing says "I love you, baby" like four men singing inappropriately in public places. » Get info

• Valentine flowers: Red roses are the usual flower, but there are many more colorful buds to choose from. » Get more flowery ideas
  
• A gift of lingerie:  Here are a few tips to help increase the chances that a Valentine's Day gift will be on target. » Read the story
• How much money  are you willing to shell out for Valentine's Day this year?  » Take our poll
• What people really want for Valentine's Day:  Here's a look at the odd, the unexpected and the potentially funky. » Read the story
• The gift of massage. » Read the story and watch a video on massage techniques.
  
  Adopted From The OCRegister

High Tech Pizza!

I should have posted this sooner but I forgot, the pizza delivery war has gone high tech. Domino's Pizza now lets you track your order online. Its as if your pizza has a built in GPS as soon as you place your order, select locations of course. But guess what, our Domino's does offer it. I usually order online from Domino's because it has become such a pain in the ass to understand some of the people who work there. So the other night I order the usual online and when I checked out, I notice this pizza tracker icon telling me to put in my phone number to track the order.

As soon as I entered my number I noticed the ticker saying "Luis is making your pizza." Seconds later it said, "Luis has placed your pizza in the oven." It went on telling me that my pizza left the store and even the drivers name. I must say that I was pretty amazed. It even lets you rate how well each person did in making your pizza. No encouragement to order something tonight but the next time you do be sure to track it.

Could the Conversion be Coming to An End?

When I came home for lunch today I noticed a flatbed truck parked near building Q, as I drove past it I saw a guy on a forklift loading up those wooden crates that were taking up parking spaces along building P. I didn't bother to ask the guy if the conversion was done because I was starving, but it looks like the end is near. It would be nice if they decided to take that huge roll off dumpster with them so that we could have a couple more parking spaces. Wow, so far this work week that's 2 for 2, what's in store for tomorrow?

Here's a Long Shot

Tonight I took a late stroll to the mailbox and noticed that the tennis court lights were on. It was great to see that the court was in use and even better to see that all the lights were working (the nets could use a little help). Anyways, that's something different. As I looked at the two courts I thought to myself, with as much room as we have here we should turn one of these sides into a basketball court. Not sure if it was my architectural background talking or the extra adrenaline in my blood from watching the Lakers win another one; either way I did realize that this could be possible.
I don't get out to the tennis courts as much as I should, but rarely have I ever seen both courts in use at the same time. I like to play tennis and by no means am I a Roger Federer, but are two courts really necessary? Could those die hard tennis players here at MV get by with just one court? Are there any die hard tennis players here? Then again, is there anyone here who would like to shoot some hoops every now then? Please understand this, I'm not talking any NBA style regulation backboards, two Big 5 Portable Hoops would be nice to have.

Is Someone Parking in Your Spot?

Lately I've seen residents posting signs in their carports stating "This parking stall belongs to..." it appears to be happening a lot now that spaces are becoming more sparse. Thanks to footballrules we have been given instructions on what needs to be done in the event this happens to you. Here are his instructions, "If someone you do not know is in your spot, you can call Pepe's Towing 714.541.0707 (signs are posted at each entrance) & when you provide proof that the spot is yours, you can have them towed immediately." I don't carry my deed around with me either but I believe that this is the only "official" document that has our parking stall information on it. I think it would be a wise decision for the board to obtain the license plates, owner information, and parking stall assignments for the entire complex and submit it to the tow company, thus eliminating any confusion.

Out with the Mulch, in with the Rock!

Today landscapers started the transition from mulch to river rock underneath our stairways. It appears that they are making use of the mulch by placing it around the surrounding plant areas. Hopefully the river rock arrives soon as the area underneath the stairs looks pretty bare.

Oh My G'OSH

By: Ben Dayhoe

Back in November, a friend of mine was shopping at Kragen Auto Parts (Grand Avenue and Seventeenth Street) when he noticed the case for the spray paint was left unlocked.

Usually these cases are clearly labeled with signs that read something similar to, “Keep case locked at all times”–reminding employees to help keep loss at a minimum.


This past weekend while picking up a few things at OSH on Seventeenth Street, I noticed that one of the cases for the spray paint was left unlocked and unsupervised and wide open.

As I was finishing up my transaction at the register, I asked if I could speak with the (weekend) manager on duty. When she arrived at the front of the store, I notified her that the case was left unlocked and kindly asked if she could remind the employees to lock the door after the customer gets what they need from the case–you know, being that Santa Ana has somewhat of a tiny problem with graffiti.

The manager told me that the lock in question was a tricky one and that they have someone coming out this week to fix it. Hmm, it really didn’t seem all that tricky to lock when I did it with the tip of my shoe.

The next day I headed back to OSH to grab an item that somehow missed my initial list.

I walked past the aisle where the spray paint is located, stopped, turned around, and was shocked to see that a different section of the case was left wide open once again!


Again, with the tip of my shoe, I clicked the push-lock closed and secured the cabinet. I didn’t even bother asking for a manager this time.

The next day, I phoned OSH corporate headquarters where I shared my story and concerns with the representative. She notified me that this was unacceptable and that the district manager will be addressing this issue directly with the manager of the OSH on Seventeenth Street.

After reading about the graffiti problems occurring at the nearby Monterey Villas community, one can only hope that the folks at OSH remember that their carelessness affects all those around them.

OSH corporate headquarters can be reached at:
6450 Via Del Oro
San Jose, CA 95119
(408) 281-3500

This comment was left by nightlife, and I encourage everyone to keep their eyes out for situations like this:

"We were told at a neighborhood association meeting that the city's grafitti hotline and code enforcement numbers can also be used to report the paint seller violations.

A few citations and fines might help get that manager's attention."

Grafitti (877)786-7824
Code Enforcement (714)667-2780

Obama Sweeps Saturday, Must See Video

Obama's speech on atheist and faith may be the most important pronouncement by a Democrat on faith and politics since John F. Kennedy's Houston speech in 1960 declaring his independence from the Vatican. Obama offers the first faith testimony I have heard from any politician that speaks honestly about the uncertainties of belief.

Its a Beautiful Day!

I must say that the weather is awesome out today so take advantage of it! Here are some quick, can do activities for a today:

• Take a walk throughout MV, avoid the Volleyball court area, lots of poop there.
• Take a dip in the Pool, don't mind the kids they're just having fun!
• Make use of those awesome tennis courts we have.
• Lite up the BBQ.
• Invite some friends over for drinks.
• Spend some time out on your porch, or balcony.
  
• Relax in the Spa.

We haven't had a day like this in awhile so make the best of it.

What the Hell is that Smell!

For the last three days I've gone to get my mail and the whole way there I've had to deal with an awful stench. Does anyone know what it is? Am I the only one who smells it? It makes me want to gag.

No Parking!

Parking is becoming more and more of a problem as the new homeowners arrive. The free spaces have gone from abundant to extinct. Just a few months ago I was able to drive home and pick a nice spot close to my condo. Now I race home from work just so that I can try to secure a spot so that the Mrs. doesn't have to worry about parking out on the dreaded Wellington or Williams. I don't think anyone wants to park out there. I feel like when you do, your vehicle screams out to car thiefs "Break in here!"

At last months meeting the association described a proposed parking plan that could open up some spaces. Here is an overview of the plan.

• Any vehicle parked in a free stall would be required to have a MV parking permit or would be subject to tow.
  
• Each MV unit will receive only 1 parking permit, this means that if you have two vehicles the one not parked in your carport would be required to display a parking permit.
• Valid Vehicle Registration would be required for all vehicles parked on the premises or would be subject to tow; thus eliminating those non operational vehicles from being stored in free parking stalls. Although I do not know if this rule will apply to vehicles parked in carports.
• The use of the parking permit would be solely up to the homeowner. For instance, the homeowner could lend the permit to a guest or a neighbor.
  

I can't agree more with the proposed parking plan, Kudos to the board on this one.

RATS, and This isn't about Chinese New Year!

In case you missed out at last months meeting there was a pretty heated discussion between Charity, MV's representative from Beacon Property Management (BPM) and a MV resident about rats. And over the last month there have been a growing number of MV residents complaining about rats in the walls and on top of roofs. The discussion got ugly because the resident believed that this should be handled by the association since it was not inside her condo; and Charity was claiming that the area in between the walls was our responsibility. The two went at it for awhile and you could tell that neither wanted to loose the conversation. In the end, Charity agreed to have the problem solved ASAP. I have yet to hear anything else about the resolution, so if you know if anything has been done to solve this matter please let us know.

I had forgotten about the rat discussion until I saw a huge rat running up one of my neighbors balconies last night. This was no mouse, or possum, this was a RAT! This problem needs to be met sooner than later or Monterey Villas is going to look like Ratatouille!!!

Anonymous

I know that people like their privacy but it would help us to understand your views a little bit better if you use a nickname. The blog is set up so that you don't have to login, just try to use the same nickname every time you post a comment.

I would like to thank those who have created a nickname for themselves: GMAN, cleopatra, pumkin828, Sarah...just to name a few.

It Never Hurts to Ask...

Around noon today I noticed a group of three males walking around our complex, every so often they would stop, point at the buildings and talk to each other. My first instinct told me that these guys were thieves casing the area seeing who was home during the day. But, as I got a better view of them I recognized one of the guys from the association meetings. I decided to approach him and asked if anything was wrong. He said "No," and explained to me that he is a member of our newly formed Safety Committee and was doing a walk-through with a security camera company. I thought, sweet we're getting cameras installed. But, he explained to me that he was simply getting a bid from the company and hopes to have three bids ready for this months meeting.

I have a better feeling knowing that some action is finally being taken. I guess its just going to be up to us and the board to approve it. Hopefully those bids are ready for our next meeting or we're going to be waiting on a decision like the laundry contract. I remember the new contract was first brought up at our November meeting and still no decision.

Gettin' Some Love

I encourage everyone to check out Ben Dayhoe's blog, Life at The Santiago Street Lofts, in which he posted an article about our blog, and our fight to clean up Santa Ana.

Much thanks goes out to Ben and the rest of the Santa Ana Justice League.

Likes and Dislikes

Since moving here last year I have grown to love and hate certain aspects which make up the Monterey Villas. One of the things I love about this place is how friendly all the residents are. There isn't a time I can recall when I've greeted a stranger who didn't greet me back. It may not seem like that big of a deal but I guess it doesn't take very much to make me feel like someone is a kind person. On the other hand there are those things that just annoy the heck out of me. For example, I hate it when other pet owners don't bother to pick-up after their dogs. Have some common courtesy, no one likes to step in dog crap.

We all have our likes and dislikes about the Monterey Villas so let's hear them. Post Your Likes and Dislikes in the comments section and I'll put them on the front page.

Likes

• close to Alberstons
• friendly neighbors
• shady walks
• Auction signs finally being gone
• pool and tennis courts
• interior finishes

Dislikes

• vandalism
• bums
• large dumpsters blocking 4 parking spots
• broken laundry machines
• people dumpster diving
• people who don't respect the common areas
• CoinMach's service
• Poor choice of property management

To view more click on the comments below.

Super Tuesday!

Democrats

Republicans

Time to Vote everyone. Tomorrow is Super Tuesday, and its becoming a real race. Above are those candidates which are still in the running for 2008. Do you need to know where the nearest voting station is, or what the wait time is to vote? Just click here OC VOTE. OC Vote has all the in depth info on what you'll need to get you through Super Tuesday.

Superbowl 42 Champs, NY Giants! 18-1 Means Nothing!

A Superbowl Sunday to remember, the underdog New York Football Giants prevail over the once perfect New England Patriots 17-14. I must admit that I loved the outcome. Sure my team wasn't playing in the big game, but I did not want to see the Patriots go undefeated.

I took a quick walk around the complex just after halftime and noticed that there were some other football fans around MV watching the game and having get togethers. I could tell there were some sure football fans between buildings P and Q, and I didn't get over to the clubhouse but from my understanding one of the first clubhouse rentals took place for Superbowl Sunday. I would love to hear how that went, and I'm sure others would too.

If you hosted or attended the clubhouse party let us know how it went. How did your guest react to the MV? I've been in the clubhouse for the association meetings but have yet to really explore it. Give us your input on what you liked, or disliked about the clubhouse. Maybe there is something you can recommend to other would be renters. We would also like some input from homeowners in A and D, was it nice to finally see the clubhouse put to use? Or, was the party too loud?

Don't wait till the next association meeting to have your opinion heard, let your voice be heard today. Leave a comment, Thanks GMAN I look forward to your contributions as well.

Give Your Opinion!

Although this blog is very new, you the residents, are already interested in giving your opinion. Let your voice be heard, if you're new to blogging don't worry its easy. To leave you're two cents all you need to do is click on the "comments" link below each post. Once in the comments section simply input your comment and chose your identity. Click publish your comment and your done. Your comment will now be visible to everyone. I look forward to reading your comments, also don't forget to participate in the polls on the left side of the page. I will do my best to at least post once a day so check back often.

No BBQ's, WTF!

Yesterday I read through the monthly newsletter and I was shocked to see that we are not allowed to store BBQ's on our balconies. What the hell is this all about? What's a balcony without a BBQ? As an avid BBQ'er, I am totally against this. I must admit that it looks tacky when someone stores a bunch of crap, like boxes, or trash, on their balcony, but not a BBQ. Where do they expect us to store them when they're not in use? How could the board approve of this? Being resident's you would think they'd understand our situation; we only have electric stoves, and there is nothing better than food cooked on an open fire. This just doesn't make much sense too me and I will make sure that this is given some attention at our next Association meeting.