-OUR HOMES ARE OPEN!

YEP--THAT'S WHAT THE SIGNS SAY!

The gates are wide open,and have been for some time!
WHY?---It does not matter---the fact is --the gates don't work and are as-- ''worthless as teets on a boar hog'' ---Many people bought and trusted HTA to be a ''GATED COMMUNITY''--they put their money down----WAY DOWN -$$!
  Management may say ---''the mcgillacutti perdunkle '' broke and the parts are on order---SO WHAT?---did they ever hear of overnite Federal Express?
  Recently , the community has had some unusual happenings.----The misdeeds at the pools are a large part of the mysteries--but not all. We have numerous encounters of unknown visitors in here. 
  Take a look at the right side outgoing gate post----it has already been hit and pulled out of plumb!
  The open gates with the ''inviting signs'' say it all!

 I would encourage the concerned residents to ''BADGER'' HTA management--beyond the local command!

WHY SHOULD WE PUT UP WITH THIS CRAP?

  HELL ON WHEELS!

Recently,--Fairways Watch has received numerous calls and reports concerning this young man speeding on his new ''crotch rocket''!

For all of us old coots-- a crotch rocket is---

What is a crotch rocket?

A crotch rocket is a special type of motorcycle, very popular, especially among young men, usually for it's power to weight ratio, speed and killer looks. Since it is easy to handle and fast, it is very popular among stunters. It's a beautiful sport bike with an aerodynamic shape, capable of high speeds.

 Yes--- this young man is a resident!--estimated age of 19-20 years !
The reports of speeds are in excess of 50MPH in the 14700 block of Spyglass
 Early this AM --I sent Priscilla pictures

SOME PEOPLE NEED TO GROW UP!

A HAPPY 4TH OF JULY TO EVERYONE!
We should all be able to enjoy our great holiday in a PEACEFUL environment.
Fairways Watch has received numerous complaint calls regarding illegal fireworks in our retirement community.
 Not only does the loud explosions disturb the residents ,but also the loving pets and our beautiful wildlife.
 Our community rules, in our new prospectus, states that there will be no fireworks discharged in our community. [page 14]
 In addition to our own rules, the Florida laws prohibit most fireworks in a NON COMMERCIAL manner.
  see below
Florida law prohibits any fireworks that fly through the air or explode — such as Roman candles, bottle rockets and mortars — for recreational use. But according to state law, if they are used to scare off birds from farms or fish hatcheries, the explosives are fair game.Jul 1, 2013

Most complaints were from the Firestone Circle area
 I would encourage concerned residents to call 911
 Fairways Watch will not only call law enforcement
but will also take pictures and send them to HTA!
ENJOY YOUR JULY 4TH!

SOME NEW ''RESIDENTS''

WELCOME!

Normally the mission of this blog is to inform our community of the security issues that affect us. Unfortunately,much of the posts are of a negative nature.
  Let's take a break and discuss something positive.
Within the past 2 weeks, a good kind resident ,donated an additional 10 beautiful ''Pekin'' ducks to our community ponds.
The Pekin duck is the most popular commercial duck breed in the United States, after a small number were imported to Long Island from China in 1873 by James Palmer of Stonington, Connecticut. The animals are sometimes referred to as "Long Island duckling".

 These beautiful creatures are sociable with humans and respond to attention----especially when bread  ''crumbs'' are present.
 These 3 groups of 5 each maybe seen around the Westchester pools area---the fountain pond---and the far east pond on Spyglass St.
 Some may not consider our wonderful wild life as an amenity----BUT---many of us do think that the assorted animals and birds do add to our environment. 
  An extra treat is to go to the dogwalk areas , and meet some of our great canine friends. Frequently, you maybe able to meet ''big Frank'' [Boxer mix]---''Stanley'' [great Dane] or the ever sweet ''Suka''--the [blue eyed Huskey] 
 SO----take time to enjoy some of the FREE amenities we have

HAVE YOU SEEN THEM?

       SLOW DOWN---DAMN IT!

About mid -week, HTA changed all of the speed limit signs to 15 MPH--in all areas. I personally agree with this change---BUT--- There was nothing in place, to enforce the old 20 MPH speed!--Law enforcement can not do anything on private roads.
 It is sad to see the carcasses of wild life and small domestic animals laying on our roadways,early in the morning. -!---All from careless non law abiding IDIOTS!---This loss normally happens at night.
  This speed reduction was listed in the long list of changes in our letter that we received last November.----One might wonder when some of the other shoes will drop.
Bear in mind-- in the same change letter---the prospectus deleted the ''cost of living'' increase limit and replaced it with ''fair market value''
 This past week ,the Associated Press announced that social security checks will INCREASE next year!----A whopping average of $2.50 per month!----
THANKS A HELL OF A LOT!

     HAVE YOU SEEN THIS ALSO?

Strange people----coming in bare footed ,with back packs on bicycles!-----They just don't seem to fit the profiles of most Fairways residents!----Sorry about that for being so ''politically incorrect''---but---whatever!
 We have tried to politely, respectively talk to these folks---but nothing of value comes out---only cover-up and fabrication.
  I have no hesitation to call 911 for suspicious people, but the response time usually does not work out.
THE ONLY KNOWN AID FOR THESE ''UNKNOWNS'' IS A GATE MONITOR SYSTEM!
----------GO FIGURE-----

YA-ALL COME ON IN!

YEP--THOSE DAMNABLE GATES ARE STILL                                     OPEN!

For the past several months our ''GATED COMMUNITY'' has been continually ''UN-GATED!''

There seems to be all kinds of excuses---from grass cutters ripping out the gate & post---high winds --malfunctioning actuators--and now the current one--bad gears.

No matter what the reason might be---there are indicators and evidence that we have unwanted visitors  coming in at night!

Concerned observant residents have 3 times found evidence of contraband, in the front ''triangle'' area of Inverary and Pebble Beach.

 It is speculated by an OCSO officer that the syringes were discarded after the use of the number one favorite drug--heroin.

 The only evidence and value these syringes have to law enforcement is when they are on a person.

 The other photo of the envelope was a tested sample of ''crystal meth''---found in the same general area.

 We certainly give the OCSO, narcotics people credit--as noted last week ,three agents visited a residence on Warwick Hills Dr. 

 Our past experience is ---THEY WILL BE BACK!

I guarantee that the working gates wont stop all the bad activity---BUT---it might stop just one dealer on their way to or from Bithlo!

HTA---JUST QUIT MAKING EXCUSES AND FIX THE DAMN GATES!

THE SQUEAKING WHEEL WILL GET THE GREASE1

THIS OLD PROVERB CAN WORK FOR US!
YES---We have probably heard this statement many times from our elders.---
  '' THE SQUEAKING WHEEL WILL GET THE                                  GREASE!''
This remark can relate to law enforcement as well as community management.
  AN EXAMPLE ----As any other community, the Fairways IS plagued by different types of criminal elements.When complaint calls and comments are continually given to the proper agencies--actions are taken!
  Earlier this week ,the Fairways was visited by a 3 man team-- They were members of the OCSO narcotics division from the ''special investigations'' office, downtown.
 The officers did enter a home,with out a warrant, with the owners permission.--It is said that these types of visits-- [aka known as ''knock & talk''] are to inform people that there is suspicion of illegal activity at the residence. Sometimes the suspicions are unfounded,sometimes not!
 WHY were these agents here?-----They were in the Fairways because,several good residents gave them credible information!--The residents shared their concerns with the officers at our security meeting ,held April 28---others may have called the direct OCSO narcotics phone line anonymously---407 521 2400
  Folks---it works --I talked by phone yesterday to a very good friend of mine, in top management of a local area law enforcement organization.--We discussed the recent visit of the narcotics ''tip squad''--He said---''keep it up--keep the comments and tips going to the narcotics people--tips are their life blood''
NUFF SAID--GREAT ADVICE FROM ONE WHO KNOWS!

  Now-- we need some grease for our community swimming pools---WHAT A MESS!
With no monitors, we have big problems at this time of year!---To make the situation worse--There is no detailed regulatory signage in place.---It seems that the only rules posted here is-''-LET HER RIP!''

In the current Eagle, Priscilla outlines some common
sense rules. But why aren't they at the pools posted now?
The problems at the pool should be handled only by HTA management!---As Priscilla said---When there is a disruptive event at any pools --CALL THE OFFICE             DURING WORK HOURS!
AFTER HOURS& WEEKENDS CALL ED DOW --AT--407 408 6992  OR PRISCILLA---
 AT--407 770 9016  ----PEOPLE WE NEED TO MAKE THESE CALLS-- THIS IS THE ONLY PRESCRIBED CORRECTIVE METHOD WE HAVE AT THIS TIME!--
 MAKE OUR DAMN WHEELS SQUEAK LOUD!
 QUIT BITCHING AND BLOGGING---START CALLING MANAGEMENT AND WE MIGHT GET SOME GREASE ON OUR WHEELS----JUST LIKE WE HAVE WITH THE GOOD GUYS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT!

UPDATE---We have had numerous inquiries about an incident involving 3 OCSO units near the office yesterday morning--to quell any rumors or misinformation, we contacted our crime prevention officer--his reply was as attached--

• Richard.Conner@ocfl.net
 
• Today at 1:53 PM

To

• fairwayswatch@yahoo.com

Message body

Bill

I looked at the call and it was a man down call. 30 YOA old white male. He was checked out and released. He was not transported or arrested.  I will have to speak to the Deputy that was on scene and get more detail as no report was written.

That Deputy will not be back until Monday.

Rich

DFC Richard Conner

Crime Prevention(Sector 2)/HRIC Tech.

Sector II Substation - East Orange County

11000 Lake Underhill Road

Orlando, Florida 32825

HELP US WATCH FOR SOME SUSPICIOUS VEHICLES

RECENTLY, THERE HAS BEEN REPORTS OF 2 VEHICLES THAT RAISED RESIDENTS
CURIOSITY!

In the past few days an older black Nissan ,has been described in the following manner. This older model black car has Florida temporary plates --#BRY 3369. Occupants were reported as possibly, 3 young Hispanic males.There is the driver in the front seat, with 2 other young males riding in the rear seat.--There is a round, unidentified white logo on left side of rear window. This car was noticed in numerous area of the community,acting in a suspicious peering manner.
 After several calls --Fairways Watch, went out to attempt to locate the vehicle and call 911 for a police check. We were unable to find this particular car at this time. It is a waste of law enforcements time to call 911 without an approximate area of a location.
 However--later on we found the car matching previous descriptions,leaving the park. We were able to record the accurate temporary plate information.
  At about the same time as reports of the black Nissan,--we also got reports of a black pickup truck, with Florida plate #DHB 159
 These occupants were soliciting tree work in the park. --Upon leaving the park, they failed to stop a request by management to stop.--They cursed and went on!
  ANY RELATIONSHIP WITH THE 2 DESCRIBED VEHICLES IS UNKNOWN.
It does not take much brain power to see and recognize events like those described above with THE DAMNED NON-WORKING GATES
2+2=4----LAST TIME WE CHECKED!

POOL ADVICE FROM PRISCILLA HERRICK

The following message and advice concerning the pool problems is copied and printed from an email that fairways watch received today.
I agree with her statement below!

• Priscilla Herrick <pherrick@hometownamerica.net>
 
• Today at 11:52 AM

To

• Bill Heldreth

Message body

Bill- 

Can you convince these residents to write us a letter or complaint, instead of blogging about?  Drunkenness and disorderly conduct which impedes the quiet enjoyment of all residents is against the Rules of the community and repeated offenses of this kind can result in loss of pool privileges.

If we are moving in a forward direction to improve communication, maybe you can respond to “anonymous” that management can’t do anything to help the situation when they get the information third hand from a blog.  The Fairways Watch’s moto is if you see something, say something…..

   

Priscilla Herrick ~ Community Manager ~ Hometown America

Fairways Country Club

14205 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando FL 32826

P: 407.273.2360 ~ F: 312.205.1239 ~ C: 407.770.9016

www.HometownAmerica.com   e: pherrick@hometownamerica.com

THE CURRENT SITUATION AT OUR POOLS

YES---THERE IS SOME EXISTING PROBLEMS AT OUR 3 POOLS!

At the last board meeting,--there were comments made to Priscilla about unknown persons coming in and using our resident pools. She suggested that residents contact Fairways Watch for violations.

  I spoke up and agreed to help remedy the situation,---IF---she would agree to give me in writing, authorization to sign ''no trespass'' orders under the OCSO arrangement.

 Priscilla immediately agreed.
 Yesterday ,our manager contacted the HOA president and rescinded the offer to give any authorization to Fairways Watch. Priscilla, instead instructed the residents to call management!
 SO!--- Please do---contact Ed Dow cell phone at 407 408 6992 or Priscilla cell phone at 407 770 9016 !
  I would like to share a few past experiences that we have had in the past,that resulted in requesting some written authority from management.
  Some time back, on a Saturday afternoon---we received several calls from residents, concerning a disturbance at the Westchester. upon arriving---it was  chaos!---A total of about 6 rental residents and Deerwood relatives had taken over the pool.They were even putting a small dog in the water. All of the other residents had literally been chased out. One of the drunken ''participants'', informed me that they were not leaving because they had been in the park for years, and knew their rights!
 They would not listen to my request---so---I called 911 and requested assistance from the Orange County Sheriff.In short order 2 units responded. I knew one of the officers, Deputy Jeff Brown-- he demanded that the entire party leave the pool area immediately.
 One ''party person'' was so drunk that he could not stand, let alone walk.----so---Deputy Brown called for paramedics to remove the person on a lift.---where he ended up I do not know.
 I asked for an OCSO no tress-pass order against the non- residents. The officer explained that I needed an authorization form to sign for HTA---of which I had not.
  On the following Monday, I sent a complete report of the event to Priscilla, with names and and the renters address. I also asked If I could get an ok to sign no tress- pass forms.
 Priscilla at that time declined to give me a permit to sign.----No comment on the Westchester party.
One more of numerous amenity questionable ventures. About a week ago--we got a call concerning repeated visits to our exercise room by a young lady.
 I went to the Westchester room,--and sure enough--there was a very young lady ,sweating up a storm. I asked if she lived in the park?  No she replied--BUT--her grandmother lived in here and that made it ok to use our equipment.
  DOES IT MAKE IT OK?---for young outsiders come in and wear out expensive equipment that our rent pays for?----GOOD QUESTION!
It is useless for myself or anyone to try to establish any ''law and order'' with NO AUTHORITY or support from HTA.
Even Barney had one bullet!

There is another issue that sometimes confronts  residents that does not involve the ''outsiders''.
 The beloved old comedian, Gorge Gobel---once said ,and I quote---"I have never been drunk--but I have often been over-served'' ----This statement could fit into situations sometimes found around the Masters pool.
There have been complaints from pool users involving, intoxication with loud profanity, and even attempted abusive ''bullying'' from other residents.
  The copied Florida statute below, should correct the above problem,if it was enforced by local management!

The 2015 Florida Statutes

Title XLVI CRIMES Chapter 856  DRUNKENNESS; OPEN HOUSE PARTIES; LOITERING; PROWLING; DESERTION View Entire Chapter 856.011 Disorderly intoxication.— (1) No person in the state shall be intoxicated and endanger the safety of another person or property, and no person in the state shall be intoxicated or drink any alcoholic beverage in a public place or in or upon any public conveyance and cause a public disturbance. (2) Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. IF ANY RESIDENTS ENCOUNTER POOL OR AMENITY PROBLEMS--TAKE PRISCILLA'S ADVICE AND USE THE ABOVE LISTED NUMBERS!

NO CRIME FREE RECORD THIS TIME!

TWO REPORTED BURGLARIES ON FIRESTONE
  A young Sheriff Deputy, spent sometime Saturday evening,--writing two burglary reports for the 14500 block of Firestone. The 14500 block is close to the Pebble Beach intersection.
 There were similarities to both crimes.Both entries were to unlocked storage sheds and both losses were primarily tools.  The exact date of one of the losses is unknown,--the other was believed to be April 30.
  The Fairways would have celebrated our one year, anniversary of a ''no lost property'' report year, next month.
 At our sheriffs security meeting Thursday evening, --the C.I.D.[criminal investigation division] sector 2 officer presented an excellent presentation on burglaries and the relation of such to narcotic use.
 It is believed that at least 80% of thefts are tied directly to ''dopers''.
 We spent a good bit of time last evening with Deputy Snavely. This deputy was one of the officers hired to patrol the Fairways, back during our burglary crisis last year. This officer only works our sector 2 and knows  our 22A area well.
  Our security program was held last Thursday afternoon and evening. Deputy Conner said that the number of visitors afternoon exhibit trailer tour was the best he had ever had!
 However the evening attendance should have been better. The program was announced for over 2 months in advance, in every media available in the Fairways.
 It is almost ironical that all facets of these thefts were discussed at our meeting---even right down to the possible ''pawn shop'' factors!
WE MIGHT ALSO NOTE---IT HAS BEEN ALMOST 2 MONTHS SINCE WE HAVE HAD OPERATING GATES!----WHY?
 The tennis courts have been REWORKED again, for ''pickle ball''--who no one Knows how to play---[bringing in teachers]----would not the funds be better spent on GATE SECURITY?

THEY WILL BE HERE FOR US!

THIS THURSDAY EVENING AT THE MASTERS
                          7 PM

Please plan to spend some time with the GOOD GUYS ! 
The orange county sheriff will have a great exhibit and program that will interest and inform everyone. The subjects discussed will range from burglaries--scams and economic crimes, to the narcotics problem.
Plan to take a walk through tour of the sheriff's trailer.---Guaranteed you will learn and see items available no where else.

 A concerned resident had several of the pictured T shirt printed up. Some people may find that this picture and T shirt to be ''politically incorrect''---so be it--that is their problem --but not the problem for the majority of Fairways residents.

 Just yesterday--the governor signed an aid bill for families that have lost law officers in the line of duty. The act is named after Deputy Pine from the Orange County Office.---May the good Deputy, rest in peace,--now that his small children have some security.

PLEASE PLAN TO COME BY AND MEET WITH THE OFFICERS-- THEY ARE A GREAT BUNCH OF GUYS AND GALS

WE HAVE GOT AN UPDATE FROM DFC CONNER---THE NARCOTICS OFFICER WILL PRESENT AN EDUCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM ON OUR NEW PROJECTED BIG SCREEN!

A BIG MEETING WITH THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE

The annual Fairways Watch law enforcement meeting will be held Thursday evening April 28-- 7PM. at the Masters!

Deputy Dfc Conner

              Over the years ,Fairways Watch has brought educational, law enforcement programs intended for all residents in our community. This year with our new crime prevention officer, Dfc Conner--we may have the best and most inclusive gathering yet!
 Last week our final planning and layout meeting was conducted at the Masters. The planning is of follows---in early afternoon, the OCSO exhibit trailer will be brought into place, in a designated area of the Masters parking lot. This interesting display is scheduled to open for residents viewing after 3 PM. The 40 ft trailer is air conditioned and handicap accessible.
In the display along with security suggestions and safety items will be---confiscated weapons --narcotics sample displays, and many other items of interest. Operating the unit will be Dfc Conner. You will find this veteran officer a very informed, outwardly friendly man ,--who loves to ''chat'' with every one---YOU WILL LIKE AND ENJOY HIM!
 When evening rolls around,---more special sheriff's officers will arrive for the inside presentations, covering areas of personal interest for the Fairway.
 Included in their presentation will be---a narcotics agent, burglary detective and a officer addressing ''ECONOMIC CRIMES''--scams--financial thefts!
Captain Garrison, commander of Sector 2 has also been invited.
After the presentation, the officers will be available for personal questions and conversations with the residents.
 We are trying to cover the main crime areas for the prevention of problems directed to our area of East Orange County.
An example of why we selected the narcotics subject!

 This picture, depicts a problem in our community!

A short time back, an observant Fairways Watch helper,found this small packet,on a street, near a driveway.The resident picked up the envelope and called Fairways Watch. --We both agreed, as being suspicious of the contents. Fairways Watch immediately called our narcotics Sargent, in regards to the item. An officer was quickly dispatched to test and pick up the envelope. YEP!----it tested strong positive for ''crystal meth'' 

It's proof positive that stuff is in here!---That is why we are asking all residents to watch and help the sheriff's people.

ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE IS SPENDING A LOT OF TIME AND MONEY TO SPONSOR THIS PROGRAM FOR THE FAIRWAYS!

IN ORDER TO CONTINUE THIS TYPE OF PROGRAMS---WE NEED YOUR ATTENDANCE---PLEASE ATTEND AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR OUR FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE!

BINGO IS BACK---AND IT'S LEGAL

AN OLD FAIRWAYS AMENITY WAS ALMOST                                  LOST!

LOOK AT THAT BIG DISPLAY AND ALL OF THE OPERATING TV SCREENS!

As most residents know ,--after the renovation of the masters,our old BINGO system was not usable with the new electronics installed by Hometown.

 Although HTA offered a new digital bingo system, it was ruled illegal by Florida law.

SO---back to the drawing boards!--Mike and Lynn Englehart, spent a lot of time and energy to work with a Tampa gaming company, in order to reconfigure part of our old equipment.

Everything was done in the PROPER way---a cost of $2500 was required to modify some of the older salvaged equipment. 

 The needed money was properly explained to all residents in detail and a advertised vote was scheduled for our HOA meeting, April 7. 

 The appropriation for the expenditure was passed by a vote of 128 for and 10 against!

FOLKS THIS IS THE WAY OUR HOA SHOULD OPERATE---OUT IN THE OPEN--UP FRONT--NOTHING HELD BACK!

OUR SYSTEM WORKS---WHEN PROPERLY INTRODUCED,AND EXPLAINED TO ALL RESIDENTS!

A special thanks to Mike and lynn---these folks put in endless hours for our Eagle---and now brought back an old institution.

Watch for the announcement of the first bingo  Wednesday under the new system. There may be some time needed for learning how to use this great improvement.

SOME RAYS OF SUNSHINE---WITH MORE WAYS TO COMMUNICATE!

Our 2016 HOA board is working with ways to improve communications within the community.
 Below you will find photo's of one new avenue.

The purpose of these ''alert'' boards are to be used for several important purposes--such as special meetings--[as above]--or situations like ''BOIL WATER''

Shortly our new information FHAOI web site will be on line

A special word about the sign above with the meeting notice.

This resident HOA meeting will be extremely important to every homeowner. Since a filing of a court case by our FHAOI, against HTA,-- there has been all forms of information dispersed out into the community. Much of this information was here-say and some of it was inaccurate. In order to BEST inform the residents,--our attorney, Daniel Perry,--will be appearing in person to talk and respond and answer the questions posed by you the residents.---''NO HOLDS BARRED'' !

 Advance questions written and given to our Randy Muehl,--will be given preference!-- We would expect good manners and courtesy extended to Attorney Perry.

Folks---this is the type of meeting that should be-- EVERYTHING--UP FRONT--NO UN-ANNOUNCED CLANDESTINE MEETINGS''

 I as a board member, can only speak for myself,--no other member.---BUT-- I will never attend an un advertised ''private'' HOA meeting.--Some may argue that there are technical legal reasons permitting such meetings--but in my humble, personal opinion I find closed meetings improper.

Another important item on the agenda is our old beloved Bingo game!

There are funds needed to bring back our LEGAL form of Bingo.The amount is said to be $2500-- All details will be explained by residents that are well informed on the Bingo situation.

COME ONE--COME ALL--BE INFORMED--NOT CONFUSED!