Thursday, December 31, 2009

The winner of the 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parde of Lights is chosen


The Gables Estates 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights was held on Decemeber 12, 2009. The Boat parade was a great success as fun and holiday cheer were had by all. The participants in the parade and those on shore admiring the lighted vessels thoroughly enjoyed the parade. The winner was chosen by a panel of judges and the trophy was awarded to the winner by Santa Claus himself. This year's winner was the vessel "Patent Pending" owned and operated by Kevin and Kim Smith. To see photographs of the 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade click HERE

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Gables Estates Yacht Club to Launch 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights


WHEN: Saturday December 12, 2009, 6PM

WHO: Gables Estates Yacht Club

Your Commodore Daniel Canel cordially invites you and your family and friends to come and celebrate with your fellow members beginning at 6PM the 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. The parade will start from the main canal (marked “A” on your map) and travel through the Gables Estates canals. Each participating boat will receive a yacht club burgee. Votes will be cast to determine the winning entry for the best decorated boat and the first holiday boat parade of lights award will be given. Please bring your holiday spirit and play your best holiday music for everyone to enjoy. You can register by filling out the entry form below and returning it to the Arvida Parkway gatehouse or fax it to (305) 246-5288.

2nd Annual Gables Estates Yacht Club Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

Entry Form

NAME:________________________________________

PHONE:_______________________________________

ADDRESS:______________________________________

E-MAIL:_______________________________________

TYPE AND LENGTH OF BOAT:_______________________


This is my entry form for participation in the Gables Estates Yacht Club’s 2nd Annual Holiday Parade of Lights

Friday, November 20, 2009


A G E N D A
Wednesday, December 2nd , 2009 @
7:00 PM @ Fairchild Gardens, Classroom “A”

1) BALLOT COUNTING PROTOCOL & ANNOUNCEMENT OF RESULTS - Attorney Laura Russo

2)APPROVE MINUTES: - President Rene Guerra
a) Board of Governors - 10/20/09
b) Annual Membership Meeting - October 29, 2009 (as circulated to the general membership for membership approval at the next Annual Meeting in April)

3)ELECTION OF NEW OFFICERS: (due to ballot results)- Full Board
a) President
b) Vice President/s
i.
ii.
c) Treasurer
d) Secretary
e) Executive Committee - 5 Members = President, Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer

4) VARIANCES REQUESTED: Bill Box, Chairman of the Architectural Review Committee
a) Appeal Review - 8545 Old Cutler Road - Mr. and Mrs. Nicolas Finazzo
b) Variance - 50 Casuarina Concourse - Mr. and Mrs. Armando Codina

5) SECURITY: Meeting with Wackenhut Manageent - Daniel Canel, Chairman

6) CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE MODIFICATION - President Rene Guerra

7) BOARD DISCUSSION - President Rene Guerra
a) Casuarina Concourse Overhead Cables Converted to Underground Cables
b) Canal Dredging Due Diligence
c) Look into complaint of bad odor on Leucadendra Drive with City of Coral Gables Public Works Department

Ten minute recess
8)NEW/OLD BUSINESS:
a) Suggestions and Complaints - Dr. Ricardo Pines, 8805 Arvida Drive
b) General Membership

9) CLOSING:

Friday, November 6, 2009

Drafted Minutes of October 29th Annual Meeting


ANNUAL
MINUTES

October 29, 2009

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF GABLES ESTATES CLUB, INC., TOOK PLACE AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDEN, “BALLROOM”, 10901 OLD CUTLER ROAD, MIAMI, FLORIDA AT 7:30 P.M. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2009.

WELCOME & INTRODUCTION
MR. RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT, CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER AND WELCOMED THOSE PRESENT. MR. GUERRA INTRODUCED THOSE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: MR. JOSE BARED, VICE PRESIDENT; MR. ANTHONY ARGIZ, TREASURER; MR. BILL BOX, SECRETARY; DIRECTORS; MRS. TRISH BELL, MRS. BUNNY BASTIAN , MR. DANIEL CANEL AND MRS. CRISTINA MIRANDA. MRS. SISSY RUFFE WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND.

THE PRESIDENT WELCOMED & INTRODUCED MR. AND MRS. NAMIKI, CONSUL GENERAL OF JAPAN TO THE MEETING. THE MEMBERSHIP WELCOMED THEM WITH A WARM APPLAUSE.

THE PRESIDENT INTRODUCED THE HONORABLE MAYOR DON SLESNICK AND MR. SLESNICK ADDRESSED THE MEMBERSHIP. THE MAYOR STATED THERE HAD BEEN MANY CHALLENGES BOTH FOR THE MAYOR’S OFFICE AND THE CLUB. HE PLEDGE TO CONTINUE TO WORK WITH THE BOARD AND PLEDGED THAT HIS DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN AND HIS HEART IS IN THE RIGHT PLACE. HE STATED HE WILL CONTINUE TO WORK ON ISSUES WITH THE OUR BOARD SUCH AS THE TRASH COLLECTION AND REPORTED THAT THE SECOND SEAWITCH WAS ON ORDER FROM ENGLAND AT A COST OF $250,000. WHICH WILL BE USED TO HELP CLEAN THE DEBRIS FROM THE CANALS. THE MAYOR RECEIVED A HEARTY APPLAUSE FROM THE MEMBERSHIP AND DEPARTED THE MEETING.

PROXY REPORT
MR. CANAL, CHAIR OF THE PROXY COMMITTEE GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT:

THERE ARE 193 VOTING INTERESTS IN GABLES ESTATES, EVERYONE OWNING A LOT IN GABLES ESTATES IS ENTITLED TO VOTE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUE 617.305 (a). FLORIDA STATUTES 617.305 (1) PROVIDES THAT 30% OF THE VOTING INTEREST SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. 30% x 192 = 57.90 VOTING INTERESTS SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING BY PROXY IS 42. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING IN PERSON IS 31. THE TOTAL NUMBER VOTING IS 73. THEREFORE, WE HAVE A LEGAL QUORUM. SIGNED: MR. DANIEL CANEL, CHAIR.

MINUTES - SEMI ANNUAL MINUTES, APRIL 22, 2009 (AS CIRCULATED TO THE MEMBERSHIP)
MR. GUERRA ASKED FOR A MOTION TO BE MADE THAT THE READING OF THE MINUTES OF THE SEMI ANNUAL MEETING OF APRIL 22, 2009 BE WAIVED AND BE ADOPTED AS CIRCULATED TO THE MEMBERSHIP. A MOTION WAS SO MOVED BY MR. BOX AND SECONDED BY MRS. BELL. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

THE CHAIR GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT: THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE MET AT THE HOME OF THE BARBARA KELLY, 640 ARVIDA PARKWAY, ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2009 AT 7:30 P.M. THOSE SERVING ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE WERE: CHAIR; MRS. BARBARA KELLY, MR. SALVADOR JURADO, DR. ALBERT TANO, DR. SANFORD RAKOFSKY, AND MRS. IRKA CHOATE.

NAMES OF PERSONS NOMINATED:


1. MRS. TRISH BELL
2. MRS. CRISTINA MIRANDA
3. MRS. BUNNY BASTIAN
4. MR. ANTONY ARGIZ
5.

ALL FOUR MEMBERS HAVE AGREED TO SERVE ON THE BOARD FOR A TWO YEAR TERM. THE CHAIR ASKED FOR ANY ADDITIONAL NOMINATIONS FROM THE FLOOR? MR. EUGENE CONESE NOMINATED MR. ANTHONY MORGENTHAU, WHOM AGREED TO SERVE. UPON HEARING NO ADDITIONAL NOMINATIONS THE NOMINATIONS WERE CLOSED.

THE ADMINISTRATOR STATED MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE THEIR WRITTEN BALLOTS IN THE MAIL WITHIN SEVEN DAYS AS PER THE CLUB’S BY-LAWS SECTION 12.

ADMISSION COMMITTEE
MRS. BELL, STATED SHE WAS DELIGHTED TO SEE SO MANY MEMBERS ATTENDING TONIGHT’S MEETING. CHAIR READ AND WELCOMED THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS APPROVED SINCE THE CLUB’S LAST SEMI ANNUAL MEETING, SIX MONTHS AGO:
MR. AND MRS. RICHARD LUNEBURG PF 455 CASUARINA CONCOURSE
MR. AND MRS. SERAFIN GARCIA - 631 ARVIDA PARKWAY
MR. AND MRS. GIRALDO LEYVA - 100 CASUARINA CONCOURSE
MR. AND MRS. RENE DE JESUS VALVERDE - 460 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE
MR. AND MRS. BENJAMIN LEON III - 9100 ARVIDA DRIVE


PRESIDENT’S OVERVIEW OF CLUB AFFAIRS
THE PRESIDENT STATED THE FOLLOWING ACCOMPLISHMENTS TOOK PLACE IN 2008:

• PHASE II OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT ARVIDA, LEUCADENDRA & CASUARINA CONCOURSE BRIDGE LIGHTING COMPLETE
• PHASE II OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY HEDGE INSTALLATION COMPLETE.
• PHASE II OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS - 600 BRIDGE PLANTING COMPLETE
• CLUB SECURITY ENHANCED WITH ADDITIONAL WATERWAY CAMERAS AND ENTRANCE CAMERAS CONVERTED TO COMCAST DLS FAST SPEED LINES.
• CONTINUE PROGRAM WITH OFF DUTY POLICE OFFICERS AS WELL AS WACKENHUT BIKE PATROL AND THE 2ND PATROL VEHICLE.
• FILED LIENS ON DELINQUENT MEMBERSHIPS
• BOARD VOTED TO INCREASE THE APPLICATION FEE TO $60,000.
• BOARD ESTABLISHED PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE CLUB
• BOARD ESTABLISHED PIN CEREMONY FOR WACKENHUT SECURITY STAFF RECOGNITION
• BOARD MEMBERS MET WITH MAYOR SLESNICK ON BEHALF OF CLUB REGARDING THE BETTER REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CLUB BY THE CITY, CLEANING OF DEBRIS FROM OUR CANALS, INADEQUATE CANAL DEPTH, MAINTENANCE OF ROADS AND THE PURCHASE FROM THE CITY OF THE 2ND SEAWITCH TO CLEAN THE CANALS.
• PRESIDENT AND BOARD MEMBERS MET WITH THE NEW CITY MANAAGER PATRICK SALERNO REGARDING CLIPPING PILE PICK UP FOR FRIDAYS AND 25 YEAR AGREEMENT TO REIMBURSE CLUB UP TO $20,000. FOR LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE
• MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORIES WITH REVISED CHARTER, BY-LAWS AND DECLARATION OF PROTECTIVE COVENENTS DELIVERED TO EVERY CLUB MEMBER.
• BY- LAWS WERE PASSED TO FORM CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE WITH ABILITY TO FINE VIOLATORS.
• FIRST ANNUAL YACHT CLUB BOAT PARADE TOOK PLACE WITH FIRST PLACE AWARD AND PARTICIPATE AWARDS.

THE PRESIDENT STATED THE FOLLOWING ACCOMPLISHMENTS HAVE TAKEN PLACE OR WILL TAKE PLACE IN 2009:
• BOARD VOTED TO INCREASE THE ARCHITECTURAL FEE TO $750. PER VISIT TO COVER EXPENSES
• BOARD VOTED TO INCREASE THE TRANSFER FEE TO $5,000. PER TRANSFER
• BOARD HAS RESERVE OF $200,000. WHICH WILL BE USED FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FOR THE COMMUNITY.
• BOARD WILL REFUND $100,000. IN TOTAL TO THE CURRENT MEMBERSHIP IN GOOD STANDING FISCAL YEAR 2008/09.
• RENEGOTIATE WACKENHUT CONTRACT WITH SAVING APPROXIMATELY $80,000. PER YEAR & ACCEPT NEW LANDSCAPING CONTRACT SAVING $20,000. PER YEAR.
• CHANGE BY LAW TO HAVE ANNUAL MEETINGS IN MID NOVEMBER OF EACH YEAR.
• CHANGE BY LAW TO INCREASE ONE TIME VIOLATIONS OF CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE FINES TO MAXIMUM OF $10,000.
• HOLIDAY BONUS GIVEN BY BOARD TO BE BASED ON PERFORMANCE AND LONGEVITY.
• BOARD WORKING WITH CITY OF CORAL GABLES TO CREATE SAFETY OF CIRCLE AT LEUCADENDRA DRIVE AND ARVIDA PARKWAY - AWAITING CITY’S FINDINGS.
• NO INCREASES IN MAINTENANCE FEES GOING INTO THE SEVENTH YEAR AT $6,000. PER LOT
• CREATED $500,000. RESERVE FUND
• SALES IN BUDGET PROJECTED AT THREE AND THIS GOALS HAS ALREADY BEEN MET IN FIRST MONTH OF FISCAL YEAR.
• REDUCED BUDGET FROM LAST YEAR BY 11%

DR. PINES OF 8805 ARVIDA DRIVE RAISED HIS OBJECTION TO THE AMENDMENT TO INCREASE THE CODE AND COMPLIANCE FINE FROM $1,000. TO $10,000. DISCUSSION TOOK PLACE. MR. GUERRA STATED HE WILL TAKE DR. PINES OBJECTION TO THE BOARD FOR CONSIDERATION.

MRS. ROSS ASKED FOR CLARIFICATION OF THE CODE AND COMPLIANCE BY- LAW INCLUDING LICENSEES SUCH AS REALTORS BEING INCLUDED IN THE LANGUAGE SINCE THEY ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PROPERTY, MR. GUERRA EXPLAINED THAT ALL OWNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING THAT ANY AGENT OR EMPLOYEE, INCLUDING REALTORS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE HOME IN THE OWNER’S ABSENCE COMPLIES WITH THE STANDARDS SET FORTH IN CORAL GABLES CODE AND IN THESE BY LAWS AND ANY RULES AND REGULATIONS ADOPTED BY THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS. HE STRESSED IT IS THE PROPERTY OWNERS RESPONSIBILITY TO ASSURE STANDARDS ARE MET AND ONLY THE PROPERTY OWNERS CAN BE FINED. THE PRESIDENT ADDED THAT NON BOARD MEMBERS SERVE ON THE CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE AND THEY ARE REQUIRED TO HOLD HEARINGS ALLOWING PROPERTY OWNERS TO APPEAL THEIR DECISIONS. MR. FINKLE COMPLIMENTED THE BOARD FOR INCREASING THE VIOLATION FINE SINCE IN THE PAST SEVERAL HOUSES ON CASUARINA CONCOURSE HAVE LOOKED DERELICT AND HE HOPES THE COMMITTEE WILL NOT HESITATE WHEN NEEDED TO IMPOSE THIS FINE AS A MEANS OF PROTECTING THE PROPERTY VALUES WITHIN GABLES ESTATES.

MR. EUGENE CONESE OF 650 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE REQUESTED TO ADDRESS THE MEMBERSHIP SINCE HIS WIFE WAS ILL AND HE WOULD NEED TO LEAVE THE MEETING. MR. CONESE STATED HIS GENERAL IMPRESSION OVER THE LAST FIFTEEN YEARS WAS THAT THE CLUB NEEDED A POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE. MOST MEMBERS HAVE THEIR CHILDREN IN PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND TAXES FOR THE SCHOOLS WAS A GREAT BURDEN. HE SUGGESTION THE CLUB’S ACTION COMMITTEE JOIN OTHER ACTIONS COMMITTEES OF SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOODS AND HE OPPOSES SPENDING THE MONEY ON PAVERS AND FEELS THE OVERHEAD CABLES SHOULD BE PLACED UNDERGROUND FOR SAFETY REASONS. HE STATED THIS ITEM IS VERY ESSENTIAL AND HE WOULD RECOMMEND THAT THIS MATTER GO OUT TO THE MEMBERSHIP FOR A VOTE

DR. PINES ALSO REQUESTED TO ADDRESS THE MEMBERSHIP SINCE HE TOO HAD A SICK WIFE AT HOME AND NEEDED TO LEAVE THE MEETING EARLY. DR. PINES STATED HE HAD WRITTEN MR. GUERRA REGARDING AN ACCOUNTING MISTAKE HIS ACCOUNTANT HAD FOUND WITH THE BOOKS. MR. ARGIZ STATED HE CHECKED THE BOOKS AND AGREED A CLERICAL ERROR HAD OCCURRED. MR. GUERRA HAD INVITED DR. PINES TO SERVE ON THE BUDGET COMMITTEE. MR. FINKLE STATED HE HAD ATTENDED THE BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING HELD AT DR. PINES HOME AND THE ERROR WAS DISCUSSED AND CLARIFICATION WAS MADE AT THAT TIME THAT IT WAS AN ERROR IN BOOK KEEPING. THE ADMINISTRATOR EXPLAINED THAT SHE HAD APOLOGIZED TO DR. PINES AT THE TIME AND WILL AGAIN THAT SHE SIMPLY MADE IN INPUT ERROR WHICH WAS CORRECTED. DR. PINES STATED HE WAS NOT IN AGREEMENT WITH THE SECURITY EXPENDITURES OF $800,000. FOR GUARD SERVICE NOR THE $80,000 FOR OFF DUTY POLICE. HE STATED THE MEMBERS OF GABLES ESTATES PAY 20% OF THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES REAL ESTATE TAXES AND HE FEELS THE COMMUNITY SHOULD GET THEIR SECURITY FREE. DR. PINES ALSO OBJECTED TO THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS MADE TO LANDSCAPING WHICH HE STATED WAS OVER $800,000. HE STATED THE BOARD MUST REDUCE IT’S EXPENSES AND MEMBERS MUST CHECK ON WHAT THE BOARD IS DOING AND STOP EXCESSIVE EXPENSES. THE PRESIDENT STATED THERE ARE 193 LOTS IN GABLES ESTATES AND COLLECTIVELY WE PAID $4.5 MILLION IN REAL ESTATES TAXES TO THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES.


FINANCIAL REPORT
MR. ARGIZ, TREASURER INVITED THE MEMBERSHIP TO REVIEW THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT FROM THE CLUB’S ACCOUNTANTS CATARINEAU AND GIVENS, P.A. HE NOTED THAT THE FIRM PREFORMED AN AUDIT (SEE ATTACHED) DISCUSSION TOOK PLACE. MR. BARED MOVED TO APPROVE THE AUDITOR’S REPORT. MRS. BELL SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR. THE TREASURER ENCOURAGED THE MEMBERSHIP TO REVIEW THE PROPOSED BUDGET (SEE ATTACHED) APPROVED BY THE BOARD AT THEIR BOARD MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 20, 2009. HE ASKED IF THERE WERE ANY QUESTION. NONE WERE PRESENTED. MR. BARED MOVED TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED BUDGET AS PRESENTED AND MRS. BELL SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR.

MRS. BELL REQUESTED TO TAKE AN ITEM OUT OF ORDER SINCE THERE HAD BEEN A GREAT DEAL OF CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING THE PAVING OF PORTIONS OF THE STREETS. SHE STATED THAT SINCE WE ARE ALL FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS AND THE BOARD IS TRYING TO DO THE VERY BEST AND IT HAS COME TO THEIR ATTENTION THAT THERE IS A DEGREE OF UNHAPPINESS WITH THE PROPOSED PAVER PROJECT SHE BELIEVES THE MISINFORMATION OR LACK OF INFORMATION REGARDING THE PAVERS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. MRS. BELL STATED THE ITEMS REGARDING OVERHEAD CABLES BEING PLACED UNDERGROUND AND THE DREDGING OF THE CANALS WERE SEPARATE ISSUES AND WOULD NEED TO BE ADDRESS AS SUCH. MRS. BELL MOVED TO TABLE THESE MATTERS FOR ANOTHER DATE UNTIL THE MEMBERSHIP CAN BE WELL INFORMED REGARDING THE PAVERS, CABLES AND DREDGING. MRS. BELL STATED THE BOARD WILL PROVIDE A QUESTIONNAIRE FOR THE MEMBERS TO FILL OUT AND ALLOW THE NEIGHBORS AND BOARD TO HAVE A BETTER OPPORTUNITY TO SEE HOW EVERYONE FEELS AND ACT ACCORDINGLY. MR. BOX SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR.

MR. JEFFREY WECHSLER OF 485 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE STATED HIS CONCERNS REGARDING THE INFRASTRUCTURE, MAINLY THE SEWAGE PROBLEMS ON LEUCADENDRA DRIVE. THE PRESIDENT STATED THIS MATTER HAD BEEN ADDRESSED WITH THE CITY AND HE AGREES THAT HE WILL MAKE THIS A PRIORITY ISSUE.


BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE
THE PRESIDENT ADVISED THE MEMBERSHIP THAT MRS. RUFFE, CHAIR OF THE BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND TONIGHT’S MEETING. HE STATED THE COMPLETION OF THE CLIPPING PILE HEDGES AND 600 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE BRIDGE WERE COMPLETED.

SECURITY COMMITTEE
MR. CANEL, THE NEWLY APPOINTED CHAIR STATED HE WANTED TO COMMEND MRS. MIRANDA FOR THE WONDERFUL JOB SHE HAD DONE OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS CHAIRING THE SECURITY COMMITTEE. MRS. MIRANDA RECEIVED A HEARTY APPLAUSE. MR. CANEL STATED HE HAD MET WITH CAPTAIN URRA, SITE SUPERVISOR OF THE WACKENHUT SECURITY STAFF AND WILL MEET WITH THE OTHER OFFICERS. MR. CANELS WILL KEEP THE CLUB’S MONETARY CONCERNS IN MIND AS HE WORKS TO IMPROVE THE CLUB’S SECURITY. A COMMITTEE OF THREE BOARD MEMBERS WILL BE MEETING WITH WACKENHUT MANAGEMENT TO RENEGOIATE THE WACKENHUT CONTRACT IN ORDER TO REDUCE COSTS. MR. CANEL STATED ONE OF OUR CLUB MEMBERS, MR. NICOLAS JUNCADELLA, A SECURITY EXPERT, WILL WORK CLOSELY WITH HIS COMMITTEE AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD TO ADDRESS SECURITY ISSUES. MR. CANEL ASKED FOR FEEDBACK FROM THE MEMBERSHIP REGARDING SECURITY AND STATED PLEASE CALL KATHLEEN FOR HIS PERSONAL EMAIL ADDRESS TO COMMUNICATE WITH HIM DIRECTLY.

YACHT CLUB REPORT:
MR. CANEL STATED THE 2ND ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE WILL TAKE PLACE ON DECEMBER 12TH. MORE DETAILS WILL BE SENT TO THE MEMBERSHIP VIA MAIL.

THE PRESIDENT STATED THAT THE BOARD MEMBERS HAVE MET WITH COMMISSIONERS HOWEVER THE CLUB NEEDS MORE REPRESENTATION FROM THE CLUB AND HE INVITED THE MEMBERSHIP TO GET MORE INVOLVED AT THE CLUB AND CITY LEVEL.

THE PRESIDENT STATED ALBERTO DELGADO’S PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT PAVED ALL OF ARVIDA PARKWAY AND ARVIDA DRIVE AND HAVE COMMITTED TO PAVING ALL OF LEUCADENDRA AND CASUARINA WITHIN THE NEXT TWO YEARS. THE PRESIDENT ADDED THE BOARD WILL ADDRESS THE CONCERNS WITH THE PAVERS AND CLARIFY THE SITUATION, LISTEN TO WHAT THE MEMBERS HAVE TO SAY AND IF NEED BE, TAKE THE MATTER TO A VOTE.

MRS. KELLY STATED HER CONCERN REGARDING WHAT WILL TAKE PLACE ONCE THE MEMBERSHIP HAS THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE BOARD. SHE SAID THE BUDGET MUST BE A GUIDING FORCE FOR THE BOARD AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS DO NOT APPEAR ON THE BUDGET ND IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE PROCESS. MR. KELLY STATED LONG RANGE PROJECTS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE BUDGET AND THE MEMBERSHIP SHOULD BE INVOLVED AND FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH LARGE DECISIONS INVOLVING MEMBERSHIP VOTES.

MR. PEREZ OF 50 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE STATED HE WAS HAPPY TO BE BACK AND WANTED TO CONGRATULATE THE BOARD IN NOT INCREASING THE MAINTENANCE FEES IN SEVEN YEARS. HE SAID THE BOARD DID A GREAT JOB.


ANNOUNCEMENTS:
MRS. KELLY STATED THE HALLOWEEN HAYRIDE AND PARTY IS TAKING PLACE TOMORROW STARTING AT 6:00 P.M. AT THE CUL-DE-SAC IN FRONT OF 369 LEUCADENDRA AND EVERYONE IS INVITED.

ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY:
MRS. ROSS, STATED THAT THE ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY IS SCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY, JANUARY 31, 2010. FESTIVITIES WILL BEGIN AT 2:00 P.M. AT THE 369 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE ISLAND. THE THEME WILL BE “CARNAVAL RIO STYLE ”. MRS. ROSS INVITED ALL MEMBERS INTERESTED IN SERVING ON THE BLOCK PARTY COMMITTEE TO PLEASE LET HER KNOW. MRS. ROSS ENCOURAGED MEMBERS TO ATTEND AND BRING THEIR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN TO THIS COMMUNITY EVENT. SHE STRESSED THAT THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS AND ENJOY THE GREAT WEATHER THAT TIME OF YEAR.

OLD BUSINESS/NEW BUSINESS:
MR. BARED STATED THAT IN THE NEXT CITY ELECTION, THREE COMMISSIONERS TERMS EXPIRE. HE STRESSED THE MEMBERSHIP MUST GET OUT AND VOTE. VERY IMPORTANT TO SHOW UNITY BY VOTING AS A COMMUNITY FOR WHICHEVER CANDIDATE YOU PREFER JUST AS LONG AS YOU VOTE.

ADJOURNMENT
THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING WAS MADE AND SECONDED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR. THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT 9:15 P.M.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

MInutes of Board of Governor's meeting held October 20th


Board of Governors Meeting

Draft Minutes

October 20, 2009


The Board of Governors met at Fairchild Gardens, Classroom “A”, on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Present were: President; Rene Guerra, 1st Vice President; Sissy Ruffe, 2nd Vice President; Jose Bared , Treasurer; Anthony Argiz, Secretary; Bill Box. Directors: Trish Bell, Daniel Canel and Bunny Bastian. Mrs. Irka Choate of 480 Arvida Parkway, Mr. Nicholas Kelly and Mrs. Barbara Kelly of 640 Arvida Parkway were in attendance.

Opening of Meeting and Introduction of Guest Speaker: Alberto Delgado, Public Works Director

LEUCADENDRA DRIVE / ARVIDA PARKWAY TRAFFIC CALMING CIRCLE

The President welcomed those present to the meeting. He introduced Mr. Alberto Delgado, Public Works Director to the meeting. He thanked Mr. Delgado for resurfacing the entire roads of Arvida Parkway and Arvida Drive instead of just a small portion of the 100 block of Arvida Parkway. He stated this was a vast improvement and the membership greatly appreciated it. He also stated that Leucadendra Drive and Casuarina Concourse will be resurfaced over the next two years as promised by Mr. Delgado. Mr. Guerra stated the Proposed Capital Improvement Project will not include the enhancement of the Traffic Calming Circle at this time do to safety reasons. The President asked Mr. Delgado to address the issue regarding the safety of the design of the Leucadendra Drive / Arvida Parkway Traffic Calming Circle. Mr. Delgado informed those present that each Traffic Calming Circle the City has installed required some type of adjustment. In the case of the Gables Estates Traffic Calming Circle his department is looking into using “splitters” islands to assure that cars use the proper use as the circle was intended. Mr. Delgado stated that vehicles must slow down to the 15 MPH speed limit as this is what the circle was design to do, slow down traffic. City will make adjustments to the circle and the final decision may be to remove the circle if that is what the Association requests. Mr. Delgado added that the circle can have up lights to help with better visibility at night.

Mrs. Kelly stated she was concern about the safety of the Traffic Calming Circle prior to its installation in 2006. She felt that there was a constant sense there would be a head on collision and now she feels the problem is basically worse than before the circle was installed. She had recommended that a medium be installed instead of the circle to force the proper turn onto Leucadendra Drive. Mrs. Kelly stressed that the circle has created a major intersection in front of her house and that her wall mirrors the design of the circle. If delineations are installed, they will block her driveway and she feels it is imperative that her family be informed each step of this process to protect their interest. Mrs. Ruffe stated the traffic calming circle has slowed down traffic going to the far end of Arvida Parkway. Lengthy discussion took place. Mr. Bared explained the circle is there now and the professionals from the City Public Works Department are looking into making this circle safe with other alternatives. He suggest the Board afford them this opportunity to fix the issues and wait for their solution. If a solution cannot be found, the Board can vote to have the circle removed. The Board was in agreement with this. Mr. Guerra stated his personal commitment to Mrs. Kelly was that she would be informed and a part of the process regarding decisions pertaining to the circle.

PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT EXPENDITURE FOR PAVERS FOR CASUARINA CONCOURSE’S FIVE (5) TRAFFIC CALMING ISLANDS & TWO (2) ARVIDA PARKWAY AND ONE (1) LEUCADENDRA DRIVE BRIDGES AND CURBING AND GUTTERS FOR MUNICIPAL DOCK AREA.

The President explained the Beautification Committee’s recommendation to pave with Chicago Cement Brick Pavers the five traffic calming islands on Casuarina Concourse, the two bridges on Arvida Parkway, the first bridge on Leucadendra Drive; and the municipal dock area with curbing and gutters only. Mr. Delgado showed those present a couple of samples of the design layout of the brick pavers which could be used. Mr. Delgado recommended using the bands around the pavers and with a pattern to control movement of the pavers and minimize maintenance costs. Mrs. Bastian objected to the idea of the pavers and she felt the membership should vote on this issue and raised the concern of the bumpiness of the road. Mr. Kelly stated his concern was the cost of the pavers as well as the noise factor and felt neighbors should have the right to vote on this matter. Mr. Box stated the membership voted the Board in place and he feels issues should not go to the membership, but the Board must make these decisions. Mr. Delgado stated the cement Chicago brick paver is a very thick paver which is packed down and serves as a noise deterrent. This would not be the same cobblestone type brick as used at our entrances as this brick is a very flat brick and has not created a noise issue elsewhere. Mr. Guerra stated the Board has historically felt the reserve fund should have $500,000. and in the recent past the Club had between $350,000. To $450,000. in the reserve fund. The Board has taken measures like increasing the application fee to $60,000. and reducing spending whenever possible and as a result the Club now has $850,000. Two hundred fifty thousand has been place in IBF and Community Bank in one year CDs. Mr. Guerra proposed returning $100,000. in total to the current membership in “Good Standing” as part of the Boards fiscal responsibility. The President stated this would allow up to $350,000. for Capital Improvements which would increase the value of the properties in Gables Estates. Mr. Bared stated Mrs. Ruffe, as Chair of the Beautification Committee, has done a wonderful job enhancing the aesthetics our community. Mr. Bared said he feels under her charge our area will continue to be greatly improved. Mr. Kelly questions the cost of the proposed Capital Improvement . Mr. Guerra stated the cost would be $200,000. Mr. Bared moved to approve the Beautification Committee’s request for $200,000. to pave with Chicago Cement Brick Pavers the five traffic calming islands on Casuarina Concourse, the two bridges on Arvida Parkway, the first bridge on Leucadendra Drive; and the municipal dock area with curbing and gutters only. Mr. Canel second the motion and all were in favor.

PROPOSED BUDGET

The Treasurer, Mr. Argiz, reviewed the proposed budget with the Board, see attached. Discussion took place. Mrs. Bell moved to approve the proposed budget with attachments to present to the membership at the Annual Meeting, October 29,2009Mr. Box second the motion and all were in favor. Mr. Bared moved that all Club funds must be Federal Insured and no account shall exceed $250,000. The Administrator informed the Board the Mr. Guerra would be meeting with a representative to go over the CDARS program with a built in Ladder to address the Club’s financial needs this coming week. She explained that Mr. Guerra would come back to the Board for a final vote. All were in agreement.



CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE


The President stated he felt Mrs. Ruffe as Chair of the Beautification Committee should oversee the Code and Compliance Committee. All were in agreement.

CHILDREN’S PARK

The President asked for instructions from the Board whether or not to pursue a Children’s Park to be located within Gables Estates Club. The President explained this would be a City Park with no parking allowed and the City would assume all liabilities and upkeep. The Club could go into a matching funds venture with the City. Mrs. Bastian suggested surveying the immediate neighbors as a first step to see if they were in favor of this approach or not. All were in agreement.

APPOINT SECURITY CHAIR

The President stated the Mrs. Miranda has agreed to continue to serve on the Board however time did not permit her to continue to serve as Chair of the Security Committee and therefore she handed in her resignation. The President wished to appoint Mr. Canel as Chair of the Security Committee and Mr. Bared so moved and Mr. Argiz second the motion and all were in favor.

CHANGE LANDSCAPE PROVIDERS

The Chair of Beautification recommended accepting the bid from Golden Sun Tree Farms for $72,999. per year starting on November 1st, 2009. Mr. Argiz so moved and Mrs. Bell second the motion. All were in favor.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

The Board was reminded to attend the Annual Meeting on Thursday, October 29th at 7:30 p.m. @ Fairchild Gardens, “Ballroom” and the invited guest speaker was Mayor Donald Slesnick. Mrs. Kelly suggested a flyer should go out to the membership advising that the Mayor would be the guest speaker. All were in agreement.

NEW BUSINESS

Mr. Bared discussed the lack of proper markers on the waterway entrance into Gables Estates. Captain Urra explained the Pat Burns from the City had replaced one marker and was still working on the others as they had to be ordered and should be installed within the next month.

ADJOURNMENT

As no other business came before the Board, Mr. Box moved to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Bared second the motion and all were in favor. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Gables Estates announces Annual Meeting for Gables Estates Board Members



A G E N D A
ANNUAL MEETING
October 29, 2009 @ 7:30 p.m.


1) WELCOME GENERAL MEMBERSHIP & INTRODUCTION OF BOARD MEMBERS :
- RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT

2) REPORT ON PROXIES FOR QUORUM: - DANIEL CANEL, CHAIR

3) MINUTES: RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT
SEMI ANNUAL MINUTES, APRIL 22, 2009 (as circulated to the membership)

4) NOMINATIONS TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS: - BARBARA KELLY, CHAIR

a) Nominating Committee Report

b) Nominations from the Floor

5) NEW MEMBERS: - TRISH BELL, CHAIR

New Memberships as of the Semi Annual Meeting:
a) Mr. and Mrs. Richard Luneburg- 455 Casuarina Concourse
b) Mr. and Mrs. Serafin Garcia - 631 Arvida Parkway
c) Mr. and Mrs. Giraldo Leyva - 100 Casuarina Concourse
d) Mr. and Mrs. Rene de Jesus Valverde - 460 Leucadendra Drive

6) PRESIDENT’S ACCOMPLISHED 08/09:
CHANGES & OBJECTIVE FOR 2009/10
- RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT

7) FINANCIAL REPORT: - ANTHONY ARGIZ, TREASURER

a) Review Auditor’s Report, Receipts & Disbursements
b) Review Proposed Budget for fiscal year 2009/10 (presented for membership approval)

8) BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE REPORT: - SISSY RUFFE, CHAIR

a) Completion of all clipping pile hedges throughout Community
b) Completion of 600 Leucadendra Drive bridge planting to match existing plantings
c) Compliance and Code Committee will report findings to the Chair of the Beautification Committee

9) SECURITY REPORT: - CRISTINA MIRANDA, CHAIR

a) Briefing from Captain Roberto Urra, Wackenhut Site Supervisor
b) Briefing from Officer Michael Hearns, City of Coral Gables Police

10) YACHT CLUB REPORT: - DANIEL CANEL, COMMODORE

11) OLD BUSINESS / NEW BUSINESS: - RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT

a) Need Community Involvement For Better Representation @ City Level
b) Road Paving Commitment from Director of Public Works Department, Alberto Delgado

12) ANNOUNCEMENTS:

a) CHILDRENS' CLUB: HALLOWEEN HAYRIDE & PARTY - PATRICIA CRUZ, CHAIR
b) BLOCK PARTY: - AUDREY ROSS, CHAIR

13) ELECT NEW OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS: - FULL BOARD - PROVIDED NO
NOMINATIONS ARE MADE FROM THE FLOOR - (IF NOMINATIONS FROM THE FLOOR,
ELECTION PROCESS WILL TAKE PLACE)

14) CLOSING/ADJOURNMENT :- RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT

Gables Estates Board of Governor's Meeting set for October 20th




A G E N D A


Board of Governor's Meeting October 20, 2009

Meeting Place: Fairchild Gardens, Classroom “A” @ 7:00 p.m.


1) REVIEW & DISCUSS PROPOSED BUDGET 2009/10

2) REVIEW & DISCUSS PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT EXPENDITURE – PAVERS FOR CASUARINA CONCOURSE’S FIVE (5) TRAFFIC CALMING ISLANDS & TWO (2) ARVIDA PARKWAY AND ONE (1) LEUCADENDRA DRIVE BRIDGES - GUEST SPEAKER, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR, ALBERTO DELGADO

3) REVIEW & DISCUSS SAFETY OF LEUCADENDRA / ARVIDA TRAFFIC CALMING CIRCLE AS CURRENTLY INSTALLED – GUEST SPEAKER, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR, ALBERTO DELGADO

4) DISCUSS PROPOSAL TO REFUND % OF MAINTENANCE FEES FROM FISCAL YEAR 2008/09 TO EQUAL APPROXIMATELY $100,000. IN TOTAL BACK TO THE GENERAL MEMBERSHIP IN “GOOD STANDING WITH THE CLUB”.

5) NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29TH @ 7:30 P.M. @ FAIRCHILD GARDENS, “BALLROOM” – INVITED GUEST SPEAKER, HONORABLE MAYOR DONALD SLESNICK

6) NEW BUSSINESS:

7) ADJOURMENT

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Gables Estates 2009 Halloween Hayride and Party



The 2009 Gables Estates Halloween Hayride and party is scheduled for Friday October 30th 2009. This fun filled event for residents and their guests begins at 6:00pm and the hayride begins at 7:00pm sharp. This year's Gables Estates Halloween Hayride and Party will be held at the Cul-de-Sac in front of 369 Leucadendra Drive. All those interested in attending please RSVP Barbara Kelly at (305)669-0619 or you can email her at brbkelly@bellsouth.net
This year all Gables Estates homeowners have been provided with a harvest yellow flyer that says "STOP HERE." If you would like the Gables Estates Hay wagon to stop at your house and have the children visit your door for trick or treat please hang the flyer on your mailbox where the hay wagon can clearly see it. If you want a flyer but did not receive one, extra fliers can be obtained from the Arvida Gate House.

Gables Estates Halloween Hayride and Party






When: Friday, October 30th, 2009


Times: 6:00pm (hayride begins at 7:00pm sharp)


Where: Cul-de-Sac in front of 369 Leucadendra Drive


RVSP: Barbara Kelly at (305)669-0619, or email at brbklly@bellsouth.net

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Gables Estates Board of Governors supplies Hurricane information for residents


Hurricane Awareness

Here we are once again, hurricane season officially begins on June 1st and ends November 30th. Weather Experts are predicting a very active hurricane season again this year, although not as bad a pervious years. Please make sure our security staff has an updated Gables Estates Contact Form on file for your property. (You may obtain a form at either gatehouse.) This information is necessary to provide the optimum security during your absence (storms, business travels, vacations, etc.).
In the event a Hurricane Advisory is issued, the Homeowner’s Association has requested Wackenhut security to report loose objects not anchored or secured to the appropriate homeowner, to work closely with the City so that garbage and debris are removed prior to the arrival of the storm, and to contact construction personnel on site to request construction material be secured. Please notify Kathleen or Captain Urra at either gatehouse (Arvida 305-667-3604 or Casuarina 305-667-3295) to report loose objects, your assistance is greatly appreciated.The following are some helpful numbers for information and assistance:

1) Emergencies call 911

2) Special needs 305-460-5560

3) Electricity problems 305-442-8770 (FP&L)

4) Telephone line problems 611 or 305-780-2840 (BellSouth)

5) Coral Gables Citizen Information 305-460-5401

6) City Gas 305-693-4311

7) American Red Cross (Shelter Information) 305-644-1200

8) Wackenhut Station One 1-800-666-5808


Since Gables Estates is located in a flood zone, Coral Gables and Miami Dade County Zoning Boards recommend that all residents evacuate the area in the event of a Hurricane with a category of two or greater, winds reaching 96 miles per hour or above and a storm surge seven feet or higher.
Wackenhut Security and Coral Gables Police as well as all other emergency response personnel will evacuate the area during a mandated evacuation. Immediately following the mandatory evacuation/hurricane, Wackenhut officers will resume patrol and assist members whenever possible.
Any security related issues should be reported to Captain Urra for the Arvida side at 305-667-3604 or 305-667-3295 on Casuarina.


We know you have heard this before, but it is very important and bears repeating once again.
Please keep all doors to your home and vehicles locked. Please keep your security lights for your property and dock area on at night and do not leave your boat keys in the ignition. Please be safe this Hurricane Season.

Monday, April 20, 2009

Gables Estates takes the initiative to simplify the entry and exit requirements for travel to and from the Bahamas


Summer cruising weather is approaching fast and The Gables Estates  Board of Governors has taken the initiative to simplify the processing of entry and exiting the nearby Bahamas.

US. Customs User Fee Decal Online

Follow the steps below to obtain your U.S. Customs User Fee Decal online. They are not yet equipped to receive applications by mail, but you can send them an email and request a form to be faxed to you. Processing is much slower this way than online.

U.S. vessels of 30+ ft. must display a Customs User Fee Decal and be prepared to give the decal number when clearing back in to the States. The new Decal and Transponder Online Procurement System (DTOPS) replaces the previous online system.

To procure your Decal, go to:


Click on Register under New DTOPS User. 
Enter name and information and set password (case sensitive; check Password Help.).
Follow steps; system will assign a User ID. 
Log in. 
If you have a decal, Link Existing Account. Enter Account # from 9/22/08 letter. (9 characters beginning with a letter.) 
View Account Details. 
Verify information. 
Enter current decal #
Submit
Yes to link. Bottom of screen: Successfully linked account.
You can then either cancel or continue to create new orders, renew, check for private vessel with  vessel year, add to your account, and other items.
Proceed to Checkout. 
Choose Shipping terms and verify address. 
Make Payment. 
If you do not have a decal, Register New Account on Home Page
For technical assistance call 317.298.1245 or email decals@dhs.gov.

You will be called back, but not for several days. Customs is still trying to simplify the website and make it more user-friendly.

New Duty On Boat Repair Parts

There has been a rumor circulating that boaters now have to pay duty on replacement boat parts coming in to the Bahamas. Here is the latest information from Bahamas Customs officials:

As of July 1, 2008, customs duty is now payable on ALL items shipped to the Bahamas. Items such as printed matter, original artwork, and replacement parts for pleasure vessels are no longer duty free. For printed matter and original artwork, there is now a $10 stamp tax per shipment, plus a 10% duty. For boat replacement parts, the duty is 15% on engine parts and an average of 45% on anything else, plus the $10 stamp (or document) tax on each shipment.

For more information, call the Comptroller of Customs in Nassau at 242-326-4401.

Passports Required for Air Travel to United States as of January 23, 2007

The Departments of State and Homeland Security announced  that the requirement for citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to present a passport to enter the United States when arriving by air from any part of the Western Hemisphere will begin on January 23, 2007.
This change in travel document requirements is the result of recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission, which Congress subsequently passed into law in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. These new travel document requirements make up the Departments’ Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). In order to obtain national security benefits as quickly as possible, and to expedite the processing of arriving passengers, the plan will be implemented in two phases.

The first phase involves travel by air and requires all citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to have a passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer’s identity and nationality to enter or re-enter the United States from within the Western Hemisphere. The final rule for the air phase of the WHTI rule will be published in the Federal Register on November 24, where it can be viewed at www.regulations.gov. That rule is also available on the Department’s consular web site which is  travel.state.gov and on the Department of Homeland Security’s web site, www.dhs.gov.

A separate proposed rule addressing land and sea travel will be published at a later date proposing specific requirements for travelers entering the United States through land and sea border crossings. As early as January 1, 2008, U.S. citizens traveling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea could be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. While recent legislative changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon as possible.

U.S. citizens can find information about how to apply for a passport at travel.state.gov or by calling 1-877-487-2778.

Bahamas Customs Form (click here to print out forms before you go)

Entering the Bahamas

The procedure for vessels clearing Customs & Immigration entering the Bahamas as of August 20, 2004, is as follows: A pleasure vessel arriving in the Bahamas shall be subject to a fee of $150 for boats under 35 ft and $300 for boats over 35 ft. Each additional person over four persons will be charged $15. No charge for children under six years old. This covers the cost of an initial-entry cruising permit, plus a return visit within ninety (90) days; a vessel would be exempted from additional fees within that 90-day period. This also covers a three-month fishing permit and any attendant fees payable to a Customs Officer, as well as any overtime and travel costs required for the attendance of an Immigration Officer. If you need to fly home, present your receipt at the airport for the $15 departure tax so that you don’t have to pay it twice. (Bring a copy of your cruising permit to the airport.) There should be no overtime, holiday, or transportation charges above this fee. Ask for a receipt, get the name of the officer, and call Customs (242-326-4401 or 242-325-6551) or Immigration (242-325-2668) in Nassau if you have any problems. You may want to call Customs before you cross the Gulf Stream into the Bahamas to verify fees.POLICY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Bahamian Ports of Entry

THE ABACOS: 
Green Turtle Cay, Marsh Harbour, Spanish Cay, Treasure Cay, or Walker’s Cay

ACKLINS: 
Spring Point

ANDROS: 
Congo Town, Fresh Creek, Mangrove Cay, or Morgans Bluff

THE BERRYS: 
Chub or Great Harbour Cays

BIMINI: 
Alice Town or South Bimini

CAT CAY: 
Club Marina

CAT ISLAND: 
Arthurs Town, Smith Bay, New Bight, or Hawks Nest

CROOKED ISLAND: 
Colonel Hill

ELEUTHERA: 
N. Eleuthera. Airport, Governor’s Harbour, Harbour Island, Rock Sound, or Spanish Wells

THE EXUMAS:
George Town, Exuma

GRAND BAHAMA: 
Grand Bahama Yacht Club and Port Lucaya; Old Bahama Bay at West End

INAGUA: 
Matthew Town.

LONG ISLAND:
Stella Maris or Deadmans Cay

MAYAGUANA: 
Abrahams Bay

NEW PROVIDENCE: 
Any approved marina (Nassau: Brown’s, Harbour Club, Yacht Haven, Texaco Harbourview; Paradise Island: Atlantis, Harbour Club, Hurricane Hole; and Lyford Cay)

SAN SALVADOR: 
Cockburn Town

Upon arrival in a Bahamian port you should:

1.  Hoist the yellow quarantine flag near a port of entry.
2.  Report to a Customs and Immigration facility as soon as possible upon entering Bahamian          waters. Only the captain may go ashore to clear Customs. No one else is allowed ashore until      the boat is cleared.

The captain should have the following information ready for Customs officials

 Ship’s documentation/registration
 Passports (or birth certificates and valid drivers licenses/photo i.d.) for all persons aboard
 Pet import permit and firearms information (make, model, serial number and number of rounds or ammunition—do not carry weapon ashore).
 NOTE: The U.S. requires a passport for all travel abroad after December 31, 2005. Bahamas Immigration has not yet set this policy in motion. Call for info.

Treat officials with respect and follow their instructions. Be courteous and neatly dressed.
After receiving your cruising permit, take down your “Q” flag and hoist your Bahamian courtesy flag (cruising pennant).

Fishing License

At the time of clearing Customs, you will have an opportunity also to obtain a fishing license as part of the fee. If you intend to troll or spearfish (fishing with SCUBA equipment or speargun is illegal), you will need a fishing license. Details of fishing regulations are on the permit.

Firearms

Bahamian law permits firearms on your vessel as part of your ship’s equipment. They must remain aboard in a secure compartment. In the event of your being boarded by Customs or the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, the information on your cruising permit will be checked carefully against your actual supply. Ammo must match cruising permit.

Pets

If you wish to bring a pet aboard when cruising the Bahamas, secure a permit before you leave home. An application will be sent to you if you write to:
 Department of Agriculture:

P.O. Box N-3704, 
Nassau, N.P., Bahamas.

You may expedite the process by calling 242-325-7413 or faxing 242-325-3960. Expect to pay a $10 fee (send International Money Order or Postal Order made payable to the Public Treasury) with your application. To receive your certificate by fax, include an extra $5 and your fax number. In addition, you will need a health certificate for your pet from your veterinarian to present to the Customs officials when you clear in.

You can now download an application to import domestic animals via the Pet Import Form. The new phone number is: 242-325-7502 or 242-325-7509. Please update your Explorer Chartbooks!

Immigration Notes:

There is no set policy for Bahamas Immigration in terms of length of stay granted to persons on cruising boats. You will find a wide diversity at various Ports of Entry. To quote a senior Immigration Officer in Nassau, “It is at the whim of the officer. There is no policy.” The maximum time permitted is eight months though six months, and often less, is usually given. This may be extended to the full eight months by personal application to the Immigration Department before expiration.
In the event that you are given less time on your visa than you would like, you have three choices:
 1) Ask to speak to the Immigration Officer’s supervisor (if there is one)
 2) Call Immigration Nassau 242-325-2668 or 242-326-1211 to report it
 3) Renew and extend your visa where you are near the time of expiration. We are advised that        there is usually no problem clearing in Nassau.

Every major island in the Bahamas has both Customs and Immigration. Exceptions are at Green Turtle Cay, Chub Cay, Cat Island and Stella Maris. At those sites, there is only a Customs Officer, who is authorized to act for Immigration. Depending on the guidelines of the District Immigration Office, the Customs Officer can grant varied periods of length of stay.

If you clear in at one of the ports with only a Customs Officer, you may receive only a short stay and have to appear later at a Customs and/or Immigration Office on the day your visa expires to get an extension.

Special Reminders:

When leaving home, make sure you have the three essential flags for cruising in the Bahamas—your country’s flag, a yellow quarantine flag and the Bahamian courtesy flag.
Your vessel’s Temporary Cruising Permit is for one year from date of entry. It may be renewed for up to two additional years by written application to Bahamas Customs, Nassau, prior to expiration and with payment of $500 per year. To leave your boat in the Bahamas permanently, you must pay an import duty of 27 percent for vessels under 30 ft. or six percent for vessels 30-100 ft.

At your first opportunity, make copies of your cruising permit. If you need to fly home, you will need a copy, as well as your passport, to present to your airline and Bahamas Immigration when you reenter the Bahamas. Leave the original on the boat.

Customs duty is payable on most items shipped to the Bahamas. Items such as printed matter, original artwork, or replacement parts for pleasure vessels are exempted from duty. However, a 7% stamp tax is payable. In the case of replacement parts for pleasure vessels, a copy of the cruising permit (C-39) must be presented when clearing the parts through Customs. If you experience anything contrary to this, call the Comptroller of Customs in Nassau at 242-302-3302.

Exiting the Bahamas

It is not necessary to clear out of the Bahamas when going farther south or entering the U.S. When entering the States, you must clear in with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) by calling one of the numbers below. If you are clearing back in to the U.S. anywhere from the Sebastian Inlet south down the east coast of Florida, including Ft. Pierce, Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, and Miami, and on through the Keys to Key West and as far north on the west coast as Ft. Myers, the correct phone numbers are 800-432-1216 or 800-451-0393. Numbers for clearing in at other locations in Florida are:

Fernandina Beach
 904-261-6154

Ft. Myers 
239-225-0041

Jacksonville (St. Augustine) 
904-360-5020

Naples City Dock, 880 12 Ave. S

Panama City 
850-785-4688

Pensacola 
904-432-6811

Pt. Canaveral 
407-783-2066 (24 hrs)

Pt. Manatee 
941-729-9301

St. Petersburg 
727-536-7311 (24 hrs)

Tampa 
813-228-2385 (24 hrs

The least busy times to call are during business hours on weekdays. Weekends and evenings are busier times for CBP, so you may have to wait longer.

As of November 2006, you can make an appointment with one of the Ports of Entry listed to appear in person and pre-register before you go to the Bahamas. Call the toll free numbers above. When you return to the U.S., call the appropriate number. You may be able to clear in over the phone. Otherwise, you will be asked to call Immigration as well, and you will be directed to the nearest Port of Entry (POE) for a face-to-face interview. Be prepared to leave your boat and get a ride there if necessary. For instructions on clearing Immigration, call any of the following:

General Aviation Facilities:

Miami 
305-526-7155

Tamiami 
305-969-7511

Ft Lauderdale 
954-356-7412 or 954-356-7946

West Palm Beach 
561-233-1083

Ft Pierce 
772-461-1733

Ft Myers 
239-561-6205

Port Facilities:

Key West
 305-296-2233

Miami 
305-536-4758

Port Everglades
954-761-2000

Palm Beach 
561-848-6922

U.S. vessels of 30+ feet must display a CBP User Fee Decal and be prepared to give the decal number when clearing back in to the States. For the fastest service in procuring you U.S. Customs User Fee Decal, you have the option of applying online at the Department of Homeland Security web site http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/pleasure_boats/user fee/user fee decal.xml. Click on  Options for Applying and follow the instructions from there. Please note that the user fee will be increasing from $25 to $27.50 on April 1, 2007.




Thursday, April 9, 2009

Gables Estates posts a friendly reminder for residents concerning Dade County leash laws for dogs


With summer swiftly approaching and expectedly more outside activities to ensue, Gables Estates would like to remind all of the residents of animal leash laws for Dade County. With the longer daylight hours and more residents biking and walking in the neighborhood it is imperative that dog owners follow the Dade County Ordinance and keep their dogs on a leash when away from their property.

The actual ordinace reads:

Your dog is not permitted to roam free off your private property. When your dog is off your property, it must be leashed at all times. Running at large: $150.00 fine for an unsterilized dog (plus a $10.00 surcharge), $50.00 fine for sterilized dogs (plus a $10.00 surcharge).
Source: http://www.miamidade.gov/animals/leash_law.asp

Remember summer is for all to enjoy in a safe and healthy manner

Monday, March 30, 2009

Gables Estates Semi Annual Meeting agenda announced


Gables Estates Semi Annual Meeting

April 22, 2009

7:00 p.m. @ Fairchild Gardens Ballroom

A G E N D A

1) WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION:

Rene Guerra, President

2) REPORT ON PROXIES FOR QUORUM: -

Trish Bell, Chairperson

3) MINUTES: 2008 ANNUAL MEETING

Rene Guerra, President

4) NEW MEMBERS:

Trish Bell, Chairperson

a) Mr. and Mrs. Frank Milton, 100 Leucadendra Drive

b) Mr. and Mrs. Mauro Libi, 401 Arvida Parkway

c) Mr. and Mrs. William Zelaya, 8585 Old Cutler Road

5) BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE REPORT:

Sissy Ruffe, Chairperon

a) Phase II Ground Lighting Installation, Casuarina Concourse Status

b) Change of Pick Up Day of Clipping Piles

6) COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT COMMITTEE-

Barbara Kelly Chairperson

7) SECURITY REPORT

Cristina Miranda, Chairperson

a) Wackenhut Ribbon Program & Awards for Officers - Eddy Esquivel

8) OLD BUSINESS / NEW BUSINESS

General Membership

7:30 p.m.

Intermission for membership to meet and greet Presidential Award Recipients and Family Members

8:00 p.m.

Presentation Ceremony of Presidential Awards

9) ANNOUNCEMENTS / CLOSING

Rene Guerra, President

Thursday, March 12, 2009

The Gables Estates Board of Governors Minutes of February 27, 2009



The Board of Governors Meeting Took Place at Fairchild Tropical Garden, Classroom “A”, 10901 Old Cutler Road, Miami, Florida at 7:00 P.m. Thursday, February 27, 2009

WELCOME & INTRODUCTION:

Mr. Rene Guerra, President, Called the Meeting to Order and Welcomed Those Present. Mrs. Sissy Ruffe, Vice President; Mr. Jose Bared, Second Vice President; Mr. Bill Box, Secretary; Directors; Mrs. Bunny Bastian and Mrs. Cristina Miranda. Unable to attend were: Mr. Anthony Argiz, Treasurer; Mr. Daniel Canel and Mrs. Trish Bell. Guest Speaker was Mr. Eddy Esquivel, General Manager of the Wackenhut Corporation, Florida Regional Office. Also in attendance: Mrs. Marta Guerra, Mrs. Barbara Kelly, Mrs. Joyce Dickerson, Mrs. Irka Choate, Mrs. Pat Bean, Mr. and Mrs. Lazaro Milton, Mrs. Rava Fridman, and Mr. Nicolas Finazzo.

PRESIDENTIAL AWARD:

The President proposed to the Board adopting a “Presidential Award” as a means of giving recognition to members and non members of the Club who have gone beyond the call of duty. He explained the following:

Scope and Purpose:

Responsibility:

Procedure:

Presentation:

Records:

Eligibility:


All members in good standing and non members who have worked towards the betterment of Gables Estates Club, Inc., beyond the normal commitment. This could include; leadership, commitment of time, effort, involvement and talent. for Gables Estates Club, Inc., will be maintained indicting the recipients of the Gables Estates Club, Inc., Presidential Award.The presentation of the Gables Estates Club, Inc., Presidential Award will take place with proper notification given to the full membership in writing. Presence of the recipients and their family members will be requested at the presentation ceremony. The Administrator will maintain a list of nominees of members in good standing and /or non members whom contributed to the Club beyond the normal call of duty. Nominees will be evaluated by the President along with the Board of Governors to determine if meritorious requirement have been fulfilled. Final determination will be the decision of the Board of Governors. Members may make nominations to the Administrator, President and/or Board at will. The Board of Governors will administer the policy and process recommendations for this award.To provide procedures to acknowledge with special recognition of exceptionally meritorious acts of service to and for the Community of Gables Estates Club, Inc.The President stated the first time presentation will involve a formal invitation prepared and printed from the Board requesting the presence of the recipients to a presentation ceremony. Members will be encouraged to bring their family members. He stated all Past Presidents living in Gables Estates will be honored the first year of presentation. Past Board Members: Arch. Jose Milton, Dr. Phillip George, Mr. Arthur Finkle, Mr. Jose Ortega, Mrs. Patricia Wallace and Mr. Jack Ross. Posthumously: Mr. Fred Havenick and Mr. Guillermo (Bill) Miranda. Other nominations that were approved thus far are: Mrs. Audrey Ross, Mrs. Patricia Cruz and Miss. Lamar Curry. Mrs. Ruffe moved to approve the Presidential Award and guidelines for said award as submitted by the President. Mr. Box seconded the motion and all were in favor.

BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE REPORT:

Clipping Pile Hedges: Mrs. Ruffe, Chair of the Beautification Committee Gave the Following Report: Twenty one new clipping pile hedges have been installed on the right of ways and 49 additional hedges will be installed, once funded in next year’s budget.
Phase II Ground Lights: She said Phase II of the Additional Ground Lighting for the 200 and 300 Arvida Parkway and 665 Leucadendra Drive Bridge Locations are complete. The plans for the ground lighting for the Second Island Behind the Gatehouse on Casuarina Concourse are in the permit stage and will be installed once the City issues the permit.
Cost for City Survey: Mrs. Ruffe explained that this Board had requested from the City on numerous occasions a change of clipping pile pick up from Monday to Friday. The Chair discussed the response request from Mr. Dan Keys, City of Coral Gables Public Service Director which is to have the Club pay $1,000. for his department to mail out a survey ballot allowing the northern neighborhood to vote yes or not for the pick up date change. She stated this survey requires 51% no votes in order for the change not to happen. (See attached survey) Discussion took place. Mr. Bared moved to approve the expense for said survey and Mr. Box seconded the motion and all were in favor.
The President added that as per his conversation with the City of Coral Gables Manager, Mrs. Maria Jeminez, a second seawitch is being purchased by the City and the old seawitch will serve as a back up. He stated the cylinder buried at the entrance in the main canal was located by the City and will be removed by the City in March. He also mentioned Mr. Alberto Delgado, Director of the Public Works Department, has committed to repairing two roads every year for three consecutive years until all the roads in Gables Estates are repaired.

CREATE FINANCIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO GO OVER BUDGET (2010) AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE TREASURER:

The President stated the Club’s income and expenses are on target with our budget; however, he would like to propose a non-Board member committee to review the past year’s budget 2007-2008 with this year’s budget 2008-2009 and make recommendations for savings where possible in the next year’s fiscal budget 2010. This Committee would be given guidelines and report directly to the Club’s Treasurer, Mr. Argiz, and Mr. Argiz would make recommendations to the Board for Board action. Mr. Guerra would like to recommend Mr. Arthur Finkle, past President, to serve on this Committee along with Dr. Ricardo Pines. Both have agreed to serve. Mrs. Ruffe moved to accept the formation of said Committee along with the nominees noted. Mr. Bared seconded the motion and all were in favor.

CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE BASED ON AMENDMENTS TO THE BY-LAWS

(See Attached) The President explained the amendments have allowed the Board of Governors to make rules and regulations governing the properties located within Gables Estates; specifically for contractors, Realtors and landscape contractors, as well as levy fines on those who refuse to comply. He stated non-Board members would serve on the oversight committee to make recommendations to the Board on fines being levied. Ms. Lilliana Farinas-Sabogal, from Becker & Poliakoff, went over the Compliance and Enforcement Committee Guidelines, the Courtesy Warning Notice and the Notice and Compliance of Violation Forms with the Board and Club members in attendance. (See Attached.) Lengthy Discussion took place. Mrs. Barbara Kelly, as Chair, Mrs. Irka Choate and Mrs. Joyce Dickerson have agreed to serve on the Compliance and Enforcement Committee. Lengthy discussion took place. Mrs. Ruffe moved to approve the formation of this Committee and accept the volunteers submitted to serve on this committee. Mrs. Miranda seconded the motion and all were in favor. Mrs. Farinas-Sabogal was thanked for her time and departed the meeting.

SECURITY COMMITTEE REPORT:

The Chair, Mrs. Miranda gave the Following Report:
1. A Comcast cable line has been ordered for the Riley Camera, once this line has been installed, an infrared camera will be installed at this location.
2. Our President, Mr. Rene Guerra, working with Wackenhut Management has designed pins for Officer of the Year, Appreciation, Recognition and Distinction. These pins were created to enhance morale and pride among the Security Staff serving Gables Estates. For the same purpose one year, five years, ten years, fifteen years, twenty years and twenty five years pins have been established. All these pins are exclusive to Gables Estates by way of Gables Estates Colors.
3. The Chair read the following letters of appreciation for Wackenhut Custom Protection Officers; Castillo, Hammett, Rosser and Linares and presented said letters to Mr. Esquivel. Lt. Castillo was recommended by the Board to Wackenhut Management to receive the appreciation award.
4. Mr. Nicolas Juncadella has volunteered to work with the Security Committee and the Wackenhut Site Supervisor to review all Club and Wackenhut policies, procedures and post orders and make recommendations for improvements being mindful to stay within the existing budget.
Mr. Esquivel expressed appreciated for the letters for his Officers and for the Gables Estates Security Committee and President working so diligently to continuously enhance the Club’s overall security program. Mr. Esquivel explained the Security Bulletin procedures, Burglary Prevention tips, possible alarm monitoring for the community being provided by G4s Technology as well as other items of security interest. Discussion took place. Mr. Esquivel was thanked for his time and departed the meeting.

VARIANCE - PROPOSED DOCK, MOORING PILES AND WATERCRAFT LIFT FOR 8545 OLD CUTLER ROAD - MR. & MRS. NICOLAS FINAZZO

Mr. Box, the Chair of the Architectural Review Committee, stated his Committee had met at the above mentioned property and reviewed the applicant’s request for an L shaped dock. His Committee took into consideration concerns and objections from some of the surrounding neighbors. The Committee did not Recommend the variances requested as presented. However, a request for a T shaped dock was submitted approximately two weeks earlier which after careful consideration, weighing the neighbors’ objections and approvals, the Committee felt they could recommend. Mr. Box stated this recommendation was based on the hardship and approval established by DERM, Florida Department & Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corp of Engineers. (Due to the water depth and mangroves at this location). ( See Attached Plan and City description of said variance requests). Mrs. Bean was present and expressed her disapproval for both variance requests (L Shaped & T Shaped). Mr. Finazzo expressed his desire for the L shaped dock due to easier excess to and from the boat, however, he was willing to accept the Committee’s recommendation. Mr. Box requested from Mr. Finazzo that any deviations from his Committee’s recommendation first must come back to his Committee with full notification of any and all changes. Mr. Finazzo agreed. Lengthy Discussion Took Place. Mrs. Ruffe Moved to accept the Architectural Review Committee’s recommendation to not oppose the T Shaped dock. Mr. Bared Second the Motion and All Were in Favor accept Mrs. Bastain, who voted against the variances requested.

Kathleen Will make sure the plans are approved by Ramon Pacheco’s Architectural Review Committee, all conditions are met with DERM’s approval and once this is accomplished, Send a non objection Letter to the Building & Zoning at the City of Coral Gables.

ADJOURNMENT:

A motion was made and seconded for the adjournment of the meeting at 10:15 p.m.

Friday, February 20, 2009

Gables Estates Board of Governors initiates new blog information forum designed to inform residents and readers regarding safety issues


The Gables Estates Board of Governors is instituting a new forum pertaining to crime prevention, and safety issues to the Gables Estates Blog. Following the adage that information is empowering, the Gables Estates Board of Governors will be periodically posting articles and Internet resources designed to inform and enlighten the residents and readers of the blog about personal safety, property protection, home safety, as well as roadway and marine safety issues.
Today's safety topic of interest concerns the issue of kidnapping with tips and preventative measures that can be undertaken to thwart any kidnapping threat to you or a loved one. The information is provided by The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and is printed in both English and Spanish and can be found by simply clicking the link HERE

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

2009 Gables Estates Block Party Announcement


The 2009 Gables Estates Block Party is set to swing into full action on Sunday February 8th. The theme of this year’s party is “Mardi Gras on the Green” and the event will be held at the Leucadendra cul-de-sac between 2pm and 5pm. Come join your neighbors and their invited guests for food, rides, and fun!!

Thursday, January 15, 2009

President's Message from the Gables Estates Board of Governors



President’s Page

On behalf of the Board of Governors and myself Happy New Year to you and your family. I trust you had a pleasant and safe holiday season.

As most of you are aware, the $6,000. yearly maintenance fees for Gables Estates Club have not been increased in the last six years. However, your Board will be addressing a difficult decision of whether or not to raise the dues if the projected sales (only3) for this fiscal year do not take place. So far, we have had one sale and feel confident that two other sales will take place this fiscal year. The Club traditionally has relied on application fees to off set our fiscal budget and without that income the Club will experience a deficit, raise the yearly maintenance fees or be forced to dip into the Club’s reserve fund.

The Board has designed a “Presidential Award” which will be awarded, from time to time, to a special member or non member of Gables Estates Club. This award will be given to those who have contributed to the well being and betterment of our Club beyond the normal call of duty. Many members over the years have given a great deal of their time and this is a nice way to honor and acknowledge those members. This award will be given based on a set of rules which must be carefully considered by the Board prior to selecting and nominating a recipient. A ceremony will be hosted by Gables Estates for the presentation of this award

Our 21th Annual Block Party is scheduled for:

Sunday, February 8th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This year’s theme is an “Mardi Gras in The Green.” I hope you can attend this Club function, meet some new neighbors and have an enjoyable afternoon. Once again, we owe our gratitude to Mrs. Audrey Ross, Chairperson of the Block Party Committee.

Phase III of the Beautification Committees’ Capital Improvement Ground Light Project for additional bridge lights and trafficcalming island lights is currently being assessed and designed to meet within the Club’s budget and maximize the best use of the lighting improvement. The Beautification Committee will continue to install portacarpus hedges around the clipping piles, as our budget permits, in the order of the highest visible impact to the community.

The Board has received a commitment from the Director of Public Works, Mr. Alberto Delgado, that two roads within Gables Estates will be re-paved each year over the next three years, thus completing all the road re-paving by the end of 2011. Your Board is also working with the Public Service Director, Mr. Dan Keys, to change the pick up day of the clipping piles from Monday to Friday. This will greatly enhance the appearance of our community.

It is imperative that each member of Gables Estates take an active role by encouraging the City to uphold their pledges to our community. You can do this by voting in the upcoming election this April. Please make sure you and your voting age family members are registered to vote. Please vote by absentee ballot if you are not planning on voting in person. Your Board will be inviting all candidates running for City Commission to present their position regarding issues affecting Gables Estates at a regular Board meeting to be announced shortly. Please submit any questions you would like asked. A brief summary of their answers will be sent to you.

The Board will soon be appointing a Compliance & Enforcement Committee of Five to oversee the implementation and compliance of the rules and regulations for maintenance standards for Gables Estates Club. This Committee will review proper standards for homes, landscaping, construction, proper use of trash and clipping piles and realtor activities as they relate to securing and maintaining property within Gables Estates. If you are not a member of the Board and wish to serve of this important Committee, please contact Kathleen.

Thanks go out to our Commodore, Daniel Canal, for creating The Gables Estates Yacht Club’s 1st Annual Boat Parade of Lights. This activity was received with great enthusiasm. The “Best Dressed” award was given to Mr. and Mrs. Patricia Cruz and all participants were given a participant award. We hope to see this Yacht Club event take place every year. We encourage members to participate next year so submit your suggestions and comments now.

Lastly, just a reminder, our Semi-Annual meeting will be held on:

Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at Fairchild Gardens.

Please mark this date on your calendar.

Rene Guerra, President