The Annual Meeting in October had the highest voter response of any annual meeting in recent history. Thank you for your response and participation. It's gratifying to see a community speak out on important issues. There certainly was lively discussion with those participating in the meeting. I would caution that the developer that made the second gate offer will not easily give up his plans to have a second gate for his benefit.

The seasonal road paving is complete and the restriping of all major roads is scheduled for accomplishment prior to this being published. The Roads and Grounds Crew is starting to clear brush and tree branches in anticipation of snowplowing. The lighting at the storage lot behind the stables is operational and the security fence should be installed any day. Expect the lot to open within about a month. We already have a waiting list that will probably initially fill the lot. Work on the wetlands trade off project with VDOT was delayed and now should start in early December. The most noticeable part of this will be the road pipe and access road off Harpoon Drive under the power lines. The contractor has been instructed not to impede traffic during peak travel times.

If you haven't had an opportunity, do visit the country club and check out the new flooring both upstairs and downstairs. Thanks are due to the Beautification Committee for all their work to bring this together. A good opportunity to look will be on December 17th when American Health Screening will be offering an ever-expanding series of health screening tests for our residents at very reasonable prices. Look elsewhere in the Harbourview for details.

The board and I recently completed a midyear budget review. We are right on track and, barring some unexpected surprise, expect to come in very close to budget. All this despite having to absorb the additional trash costs. The FY05 budget cycle has started and amenity managers, supervisors and committees are putting forth their requests for consideration.

Recently one of our unsung heroes has given notice that he and his wife will be moving back to their old homeland. For the past 17 years Leo Perlot has quietly (usually) worked in the background for the betterment of the community. Leo has been the anchorman on the Security Committee for what seems like forever and more recently served as Chairman of the Legal Compliance Committee. His consistent wise counsel and good judgment have been invaluable. Thank you Leo. We wish you and Marian the best in your new home.

A reminder. The holiday tree lighting will take place at 6:00 p.m. on December 5th at the large pine tree in front of the Business office. After the tree is lit we will move into the conference room for treats and a chance for the kids to decorate ginger bread men. Come help light the tree and ring in the holiday season.