The Community News is to let homeowners know what is happening in and around your community.If you have any news to share, please submit your story or information. Thank you for your participation in the community website it was designed exclusively for Surfside Homes by the Sea. What a wonderful community to call home! |
-
It's Official Fresh Market is Moving In!Posted on: 2011-12-13Greg the project manager for the Beach Promenade Remodel confirmed today that Fresh Market will be the new market. His crew is doing the outside of the building and hope to hand it off by the end of the month for the interior crew to get started. All the buildings will look like the back of the old Rite Aid looks now. There will be no condos, no hotels and no second story. We discussed what the architect posted but he assured me they are just doing the remodel with the one story. - Coyote SightingsPosted on: 2011-12-11Surfside recently lost another beloved pet to the coyote population that hunts throughout the community. They have been spotted as early as 5:00 a.m, seen running down the streets at 11:00 a.m and scaled the back wall like it wasn't there and all hours of the evening and night. The homeowner that recently lost her dog has provided information about reporting coyote sightings.
Here is what the community and people like yourself reading this can do.
Every time you see a coyote you need to call OC Animal Care and Control at:
714-935-6848 8am - 5pm and ask for field services
714-935-7158 after 5pm and ask for field services
You should also send an e-mail to our local city council members to always let them know because they are the ones who make the decisions on trapping etc. Animal control said they hold the cards in telling them what to do since these animals are protected wild life. But its up to the city council to protect its people so if there are an increase of sightings in the area they will be forced to act if they are made aware.
If you go to www.huntingtonbeachca.gov/government/elected_officials/city_council/ you will see a link that says Send an e-mail to all seven City Council Members.
Tell everyone who see's a coyote to call and report. Even if its 3 times a day everyday. The more often the reports the better for us. - Mark your Calender Upcoming Shred Event!Posted on: 2011-12-06Save the day...Saturday January 14, 2011
stay tuned for location and time! - Results of November ElectionPosted on: 2011-12-05Dianne Gillespie (Incumbent)
Ross Seller (Thank you Ross...he is brand new to the board!)
Gina Stubbert (Incumbent)
Thanks to all our Board Members for their service, but I really appreciate when someone new from the Community steps up! Board members volunteer more time than most community members realize. Next time you meet a board member, Please say Thank you for your time! - Turkey WinnerPosted on: 2011-12-05Patricia J. Yamazaki was the winner of the Free Turkey this year!
Many thanks to all who participated!
Hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful! -
Haunted Maze Was a Hit!Posted on: 2011-11-07Halloween has always been kind of special in Surfside. Where can kids go and get that much candy and Mom and Dad know most of the neighbors! The Haunted House has been a part of Surfside for along time now. The Austin's used to live on Whitestone and host it every year! When they moved, Bamboo Ben stepped up and started hosting the event. This year, Jack Bamboo Ben's oldest son....asked the board(with his brother Blake in tow and friends)if they could use the common area located next to the tot lot! The board approved and the boys did fantastic work! It was a hit! Please go to the Neighborhood Pictures Haunted Maze to see the results!
-
November Elections Board Meeting Tuesday the 15th in the South Clubhouse, 5pmPosted on: 2011-11-07November is the time for our Annual Meeting. During this meeting, the election of new directors to the board takes place. This year, there are three positions open and the candidates are:
Ross Seller Dianne Gillespie*
Mark Shapiro Gina Stubbert*
* indicates incumbent.
Ballots were received this past weekend.
When reviewing the material, read and follow the
instructions carefully, so that your vote is counted.
Be sure to send your sealed ballot in the double envelopes provided.
If you plan on attending, come early (5:00 p.m.) to the South Clubhouse, and register.
You may turn in the sealed envelopes at the meeting.
Be sure and bring valid identification, such as a drivers license or state ID card.
Surfside is using the accounting firm of Schonwit and Associates for the collection and tallying
of ballots.
All voting is conducted in accordance with the Davis-Sterling Act and California State Law. -
The New Beach PromenadePosted on: 2011-09-13Location:
Huntington Beach, CA
Client:
Sassounian Development
Size:
10 acres
180 residential units
150 hotel rooms
87,000 sf retail
Density:
30 du/acre
A 10-acre mixed-use development located on Beach Boulevard in Huntington Beach, Beach Promenade will transform an under-used shopping center and frontage road into a vibrant urban village. As one of the last large infill parcels near downtown and the beach, the site offers visibility and access to adjacent communities while its proximity to the beach provides an opportunity to expand and complement the existing hotel and resort district. The project features a mix of commercial, hospitality and residential space including The Village Center with an upscale market and a drugstore with offices above the shops.
Click on link to view new renditions of drawings. - Pacific Villas is now OpenPosted on: 2011-07-12This new gated development is reached from Newland, but backs up to Surfside on the East side of the Complex in the South Corner(near the south pool).
The Villas at Pacific Shores is a collection of luxury courtyard homes that take residential elegance and spaciousness to stunning heights. Spanning approximately 3,527 to 4,142 square feet, these dramatic residences encompass four to five bedrooms plus a bonus room and loft space for entertainment and parties. Generous courtyards adjoining the living and family rooms take on the character of outdoor rooms, and a three-car garage adjoins every home.
Anticipated staring prices will be in the $900's. The Gated Community will be offering a community pool as well.
Call me to schedule an appointment at 714-404-7081. - Community Event UpcomingPosted on: 2011-07-12Watch your Surfside Newsletter for the latest information about the upcoming community event that the Social Committee is planning. If you want to volunteer, please contact Jim Karona!
- Carbon Monoxide Alarm Did You Know?... It’s the Law!Posted on: 2011-06-08Carbon Monoxide Alarm Did You Know?... It’s the Law!
Effective July 1, 2011 (per California Senate Bill 183 -
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act)
ALL existing single-family dwellings that contains
a fossil fuel burning heater or appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage,
MUST INSTALL Carbon Monoxide Alarms!
The California Air Resources Board has determined that 30-40 “avoidable deaths”, on average,
occur in California each year due to unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, this
is the cause of 175-700 “avoidable” emergency room visits and hospitalizations in the state.
For a list of California State Marshal approved carbon monoxide detectors
go to website: http://osfm.fire.ca.gov/licensinglistings/licenselisting_bml_searchcotest.php
under the drop down menu:
Category -
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The winner of the Carbon Monoxide Detector was Dorothy, who asked that her information be kept confidential.
homes4salebyrobin@yahoo.com
www.robintaylor.com
Robin Taylor
License # 01248003
1720 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 101
Huntington Beach,
- Mark Your Calendar for Hang Tag SwapPosted on: 2011-06-03Surfside’s board of director’s decided to do something about the
large, crumbling plastic parking hang tags that resident’s use.
These old hang tags haven’t stood up to the heat and salt air. They have
curled and cracked and have been an eyesore. The security guard has
also had difficulty reading the numbers. We hope we have solved these
problems.
Smaller hang tags have been ordered and are ready to be picked
up.
These new hang tags are also permanently printed with your corresponding lot number.
Three days in June have been made available for homeowners
to pick up the new hang tags at the South Clubhouse; Friday, June 10,
from 4 to 6 pm, Saturday, June 11, from 12 to 3 pm, and Sunday, June
12, from 12 to 3 pm.
In order to receive your new hang tag, you must
bring your old hang tag to exchange—Same for Same! If you have
never received your 3rd hang tag, you may purchase it for $25. We have
a record of how many hang tags residents received (and/or purchased).
If you lost your hang tag, new can be purchased for $75. Pay cash or
make your check payable to Surfside HOA. As of July 1, old hang tags
will no longer be valid and vehicles using them will be towed.
Renters, we sent homeowner’s (your landlord) a form in the
mail along with the June dues statement, and you need to bring this
signed permission slip with you, in order for you to exchange the old
hang tag(s) for new.
If you have questions, contact Merit or Mary Reardon. Both
phone numbers are always listed on the front page of the newsletter.
- Big Turn Out For Garage SalePosted on: 2011-05-02There was a great turn out for the Surfside Community Garage Sale that was held on April 30, 2011. More people reported brisk and increased sales this year despite gas prices being over $4.09 a gallon. Bicycles were a big request, but not many were selling in here. It is always fun to get out and meet more neighbors than you knew before. It was fabulous weather till the Santa Ana winds picked up, blowing down some homeowners goods and wares.
Teen Challenge came through at the end and picked up many donations. They appreciate Surfside's Generosity.
Stay tuned, Ice Cream Social coming up, watch for the banner to go up in the olive trees. - Winner of The Endlless Food and Fun ContestPosted on: 2011-04-13The Bassham Family won the $50.00 gift certificate to Endless Food and Fun located 7227 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714-377-7671
See front page of www.surfsidehomesbythesea.com website.
Website:endlessfoodandfun.com/ -
Mama's on 39Posted on: 2011-04-12Mama's on 39
Help us spread the the word!! MAMA'S is HIRING!!! The Hiring Fair will be held, April 20,21 from 9am-4pm, and April 22 from 12noon-7pm. The hiring fair will be held at 21132 Beach Boulevard, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 (previously the Rite-Aide building, now vacant), corner of Beach & Atlanta. Please print the attached application and bring filled out. Mama's can't wait to meet you!! -
Garage Sale Coming April 30, 2011Posted on: 2011-03-08The Surfside Annual Garage Sale will be held April 30, 2011 from 7:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m.
Teen Challenge will be around to pick up after the sale. If you want Teen Challenge to pick up goods you must call Robin at 714-404-7081 or email her with what you have for pick up.
All items must be in good working shape. No old TVs will be picked up.
Make sure you email, or call Robin to get on the list. 714-404-7081 or email.
Robin will advertise in the Penny Saver and put up signs to direct the shoppers.
Email:homes4salebyrobin@yahoo.com - Robbery in SurfsidePosted on: 2011-02-15Hello Neighbors- I wanted to inform you that we were robbed Monday, Feb. 14, 2011 sometime in the evening when we were home! Someone came in through our back gate and went into our garage and stole a laptop computer, road bike, and a few other small things. This person obviously knew what they wanted from our garage as these items were not easily accessible. Just wanted to notify everyone and remind you to lock your gate and/or garage doors.
-
New Restaurant taking ShapePosted on: 2011-02-08Whenever your shopping over in the Big Lot's Shopping center, whether you are at Las Barcas, Beauty Shop or Big Lot's everyone is an expert on who the new restaurant is going to be. I heard the other day that it is the Salt Creek Burger Joint with their offices from Dana Point relocating to Huntington Beach to be above their newest restaurant.
There is definitely a yoga center going in on the top floor as well.
Stay tuned, the city and the owners of the center should be finishing escrow on the frontage road and then construction should really take off.
Seeing the change is exciting. - Cash Prize 1st Ever Surfside Chili CookoffPosted on: 2011-02-08All Surfside residents are welcome and you don't need to enter a Chili in order to attend. It will take place at the South Clubhouse from 12 noon until 4pm on Sunday, February 13th.
Please keep this date open for our first Chili Cook Off social event. Chili, bottled water and snacks will be provided. Pot Luck enthusiasts, you may also bring
a side dish to share!
If you plan to enter a Chili into the competition, please be aware of the following:
You should bring it in a crock pot with lid and serving
spoon. Small 1 oz. containers and spoons will be provided. All types of
Chili's are welcome, spicy, not-so-spicy, meat, bean, vegetarian, red
chilies, white chilies, green... or any combination. It's your call! Ballots will be provided for judging. There will be prizes for the best Chilies voted by the attendees and CASH prizes for the best Chilies voted by
the official Judges. If you enter a Chili into the contest, then you can't
be a Judge. We are also looking for Judges, so come on down and join
in on the fun! If successful, we are hoping to make this an annual event! - Shopping Center UpdatePosted on: 2011-01-05Progress has been a little slow with all the rain that we have had. However, you have to admit we are coming out of the drought we have been in.
There is no confirmation as to who the market or drug store will be. They are working on securing a large name market that has a drug store within their store.
- Election ResultsPosted on: 2010-12-07James Korona,
Don Truitt,
Teria Horner
Beth Schafer
all incumbents kept their positions. - Flood Zone ChangedPosted on: 2010-12-07Please see the link below regarding the latest changes to our flood zone. The Board of Directors voted at the November 17, 2010 meeting to discontinue flood insurance. Any information you need should be found on the website under the HOA and a link to a PDF file has been placed at the top of the page.
-
Big Lot's Redevelopment UpdatePosted on: 2010-11-09
Despite all the changes to the old Bank of America building the drive up ATM is still operational and it will not be moving per Greg the Superintendent of the Project. I also spoke with Bill who the project manager and he was saying that the new restaurant will be called, Mama's on 39 and will be a casual breakfast, lunch and dinner house. There will also be a yoga studio as well as another restaurant join that corner! They still are not ready to release who will be the big major market for the Old Rite Aid building!
The city council did agree on October 18, 2010 to vacate the frontage road allowing the entire project to move forward!
Stay tuned! All business will remain open during remodeling!
-
Pacific Shores DevelopmentPosted on: 2010-10-12Pacific Shores the new home development located at Newland and Hamilton will be opening soon November 2010. They will be priced from the mid $500's for a 1 bedroom to the $800,000's for the larger townhouses. Pacific Shores development backs up to the south east side of Surfside.Website:www.pacificshoreshb.com/news/ -
Big Lot's Shopping Center UpdatePosted on: 2010-10-12As many of you have noticed the Bank of America building is undergoing a major transformation. The goal is to have the corner building buttoned up by November and a new restaurant open around end of January - Mama's Beach House.
Go to communit
They are getting very close on leasing the market - probably another two weeks away. It will take close to a year to get their space and the site expansion complete. Negotiations with the City regarding acquisition of the frontage road is on the agenda for the next City Council action on October 18.
-
Surfside has Lost A FriendPosted on: 2010-10-12In case any of you have missed Shannon Coffman who resided on Pawtucket, Shannon went to the Rainbow Bridge on October 7, 2010 to wait for her family.
Shannon will be greatly missed, not only by the duck here but many in the neighborhood.
Shannon was a truly a unique dog. I don't think Shannon ever met a dog or cat that she didn't like! Not to many of our furry friends tolerated the ducks eating their treats, but Shannon always took it in stride.
She will be greatly missed!
-
Community BBQ was a Huge SuccessPosted on: 2010-10-12Make sure you check out photos under neighborhood pictures Community BBQ 2010 to see the photos of the BBQ that have been submitted. Jim Korona is looking for volunteers for the Social Committee, please contact Jim. - Front Porches Back On The Ballot this Fall!Posted on: 2010-09-30*
Voting for porches in November
We are going to get to vote for front porches again this year. In the November ballot, you will be able to cast your YES vote. We need 222 yes votes which is 67% of the owners. Three years ago we had a 95% YES vote but only 166 owners voted. WE NEED YOUR HELP TO GET THE VOTE OUT. Call me to ask questions. In a nutshell, you will be allowed to bring your porch out no more than 10 feet from your home. Many of us will be able to go out to the walkway in front our homes. Some have more space than others, but the maximum distance is 10 feet. I plan to have a 7 1/2 foot porch and a 2 1/2 foot flower garden. Your YES vote does not mean you have to build a front porch. However, those of us who do, it will add good value to your property and our community as a whole. Only cement and used brick will be allowed. The corner edges of the porch will need to be curved not squared off. Each owner will be required to submit plans and they will be OK'd by the architecture committee and the board. Again, I NEED HELP TO GET THIS VOTE PASSED. Those of you who know your owner are encourged to contact them and help us win this vote.
Email:nvstwyz@gmail.com
- Community BBQ September 12, 2010 New DatePosted on: 2010-09-07Our community BBQ is being held at the South pool barbeque area Sunday, September 12, 1-4pm. All residents are invited. Food, soft drinks, a bounce house, and pinata are being provided. If you like, you may
bring your favorite pot luck dish to share. Say hi to old friends and make some new friends! A plumbing company vendor booth will also be set up.. Want to
help or have ideas to share? Contact Jim Korona at 714 642-2800. - Back to School Back Pack Winner!Posted on: 2010-09-07Michael Kissel resident of Surfside is the lucky winner of the back pack loaded with school supplies this Fall.
Thank you to all who participated in the drawing. -
New Development Under WayPosted on: 2010-08-10They are constructing the model homes of the new development off Newland that backs to Surfside. -
Big Lot's Shopping Center DevelopmentPosted on: 2010-08-10Many of you have noticed that the reconstruction of the old Bank of America building is in full swing. The biggest changes for the shopping center is that Rite Aid has closed and that bulding is now empty. The plans call for a new drug store to be located where the old Bank of America building is. Stay tuned to find out who the market will be that is going in the shopping center. - Community BBQ September 12, 2010Posted on: 2010-08-10Our community BBQ is being held at the South pool barbeque area Sunday, September 12, 1-4pm. All residents are invited. Food, soft drinks, a bounce house, and pinata are being provided. If you like, you may
bring your favorite pot luck dish to share. Say hi to old friends and make some new friends! A plumbing company vendor booth will also be set up.. Want to
help or have ideas to share? Contact Jim Korona at 714 642-2800. -
Bank Of America Building Getting A Face Lift!Posted on: 2010-06-08Finally the Big Lot's shopping center renovation has begun. You can still use the drive up ATMs. Many if not all the business that are currently in the center plan on staying. Las Barcas is not leaving! - Community Garage Sale was a SuccessPosted on: 2010-05-11Community Garage Sale that was held on April 24, 2010 had over 50 families participating. Many residents, cleaned out their garages, made a little money and met their neighbors. I can't tell you how many residents assisted their neighbor and recycled their wares by taking it to their home.
Teen Challenge came around after the garage sale and picked up donations for the residents.
Thanks to all who participated and helped make it a huge success.
If anyone has any pictures from the Garage Sale, I would appreciate you forwarding me a few. My camera broke and took all the pictures I had with it.
- Sunday SundaesPosted on: 2010-05-11The Social Committee for Surfside sponsored their first Sunday Sundaes from 1-4 at the back of the complex near the BBQ's. They had a great turn out. Contact Jim Korona if you are interested in volunteering for the social committee.
Look for the next community event and get out and meet your neighbors. - Update On the Beach Promenade ProjectPosted on: 2010-05-07
The Beach Promenade Project has begun on the corner of Atlanta and Beach. The old Bank of America building has been cordoned off and work has begun.
The development is awaiting final approval from the Planning Commission to extend to Beach Blvd. and eliminate the old frontage road and add 3 new buildings to the project. They hope to have final sign off in June.
Site Plan - Huntington Beach Union High School District Summer FestPosted on: 2010-05-07The Huntington Beach Union High School District is pleased to offer a new summer enrichment program called SummerFest 2010. SummerFest is a fee-based program open to all students within our boundaries in grades 4-10. Beginning June 28th, students will be able to participate in a wide variety of entertaining and creative activities during three 2-week sessions of morning and/or afternoon classes in an affordable, safe, and quality environment at each of our comprehensive school sites.
Check out the website for more detailed information.
Brought to you by a thoughtful neighbor!
Website:www.hbuhsd.org/ -
Changes Around SurfsidePosted on: 2010-03-10Have you noticed the new basketball court resurfacing? How about the new windows at the south clubhouse on the pool side! The board had new windows installed that open and actually allow a cross breeze in the clubhouse. The fence has been repainted a light beige that appears to match the buildings. It really looks nice and most people are so glad to see that ugly old gray go!
Did you notice we have lost 4 of the Lelani cypress trees along Atlanta? One came down in a recent storm, another one just broke in the middle of the night and the remaining 2 were removed March 8, 2010. Those cypress trees have been a landmark for Surfside for over 40 years. The cypress have developed a disease and unfortunately before long they will all be gone. Please check out Surfside pictures in Around the Neighborhood to see some of the changes discussed here! - Neighborhood Garage SalePosted on: 2010-03-10The Surfside Annual Garage Sale will be held April 24, 2010 from 7:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. Teen Challenge will be around to pick up after the sale. If you want Teen Challenge to pick up goods you must call Robin at 714-404-7081 or email her with what you have for pick up. All items must be in good working shape. No old TVs will be picked. Danish will be served, so make sure you email, or call Robin to get on the list. 714-404-7081 or email. Robin will advertise in the Penny Saver and put up signs to direct the shoppers.
- Mortgage Changes Coming Soon!Posted on: 2010-02-24Those Who Wait Will Pay Thousands More This Spring
Waiting a few extra days or weeks to purchase a home this spring could cost buyers thousands of extra dollars as the office of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) implements several changes for loans guaranteed by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA).
Coming just weeks before the April 30 deadline for the Home Buyer Tax Credit and just days after the March 31 expiration of the Federal Reserve Board's mortgage backed securities purchase program (which has kept home loan rates artificially low for over a year), these FHA changes make it even more important to act now to save big.
Here are a few reasons why:
On April 5th, the cost of required up-front mortgage insurance for loans guaranteed by the FHA will increase from 1.75% to 2.25%. For a borrower purchasing a $200,000 home with a $7,000 down payment, the up-front mortgage insurance will increase by $965. Up-front mortgage insurance is typically financed in the final loan amount so the impact to a monthly payment will be minimal but overall, the increase is still borne by the borrower both upfront and monthly.
It is important to note that in order to be eligible for the lower cost up-front mortgage insurance, a lender has to order a case number from the FHA before April 5th. A case number can only be generated for loan applications where a property is involved and a fully executed purchase contract exists. Home buyers who have been pre-approved but are not under contract will not be eligible for the reduced premium effective April 5th.
Later this spring, the amount of money that a seller can return to the buyer from their sale proceeds will be reduced from 6% to 3%. The reduction in these 'seller concessions' can increase the amount of cash a buyer will be required to pay at closing by $6,000 for a home purchase of $200,000.
There is only one way to avoid being affected by all of these costly changes that lie ahead - submit all FHA mortgage applications by the last week of March.
If I can answer any questions you may have about how these changes could impact you, call me. I appreciate your business. - Big Lot's Shopping Center Update!Posted on: 2010-02-08Big Lot's Phase 2 expansion plans for the center were submitted last August, but the Planning and Public Works Departments are treating it like an entirely new project, so new engineering, soils, traffic and water quality studies and reports, which took some time to prepare and revise to the City's satisfaction had to be completed. They are back in for second check and hope to have final approval in March from the Planning Commission.
They have submitted working drawings for the remodel of the B of A building and intend to start work on this building as soon as permits are cleared, as we have a restaurant tenant interested in this space. They are in the process of obtaining bids for all phases of construction and finalizing the grading and utility plans.
The City is moving ahead with closure of the frontage road - there is a Planning Commission item on tomorrow night's agenda to clear the way for the City Council to formally vacate the road in March.
- FREE FORECLOSURE PREVENTION HELP AVAILABLE AT LOCAL NONPROFIT AGENCIESPosted on: 2009-12-30Troubled borrowers looking for FREE Foreclosure Prevention Counseling, as well as information about the Obama administration’s mortgage modification and refinancing programs, can contact a local HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agency, to apply for help in working with their mortgage servicer. Borrowers can also check to see if they qualify for a loan modification and refinance under the Obama plan and apply online at www.makinghomeaffordable.org for help from their mortgage servicer. Visit the Orange County Home Ownership Preservation Collaborative for a list of local housing counseling resources and events at www.ochopc.org or the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development’s website at www.hud.gov. Local Orange County HUD-Approved Agencies include three of OCAR’s Community Partners: the Fair Housing Council of Orange County www.fairhousingoc.org, Neighborhood Housing Services of Orange County www.nhsoc.org, and Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Orange County www.cccsoc.org.
“HOPE NOW” APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE
Troubled borrowers hoping to participate in the Obama administration’s mortgage modification and refinancing programs now can apply online for help from their mortgage servicer. Borrowers can submit details about their financial situation at www.hopenow.com, the website operated by the coalition of mortgage servicers and nonprofit counselors. For more information, please visit the website or call (888) 995-4673.
- The New Board Is In Place!Posted on: 2009-12-03The results are in and the 3 new board members joining the board are:
Charlean Allen
Dianne Gillespie
Gina Stubbert
Mary Reardon is now the President, Teria Horner is Vice President, Jim Korona is Treasurer, Beth Shafer remained at Secretary. Charlean, Dianne and Gina will all be members at large.
-
Surfside Soilder Has Come HomePosted on: 2009-11-11Greg and Myra Sonnenberg, Daniel and Marcos welcomed Spc. Chris Sonnenberg, home from Operation Iraqi Freedom War. Chris served in the Army and he is now going to be in the Reserves. He was part of the 419th CSSB ' Wolf Pack'. Go to Neighborhood Pictures and click on Soilder Returns to see the pictures. - Home Buyer Tax Credit PassedPosted on: 2009-11-10Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended and Expanded:
The highly successful first-time homebuyer tax that was set to expired at the end of this month has been extended for a second time. Plus, it is now available to people that currently own homes. There are a lot of myths about who can get this tax credit, so I have prepared the following for you:
Important date: April 30, 2010. This is the date that purchase contracts must be signed to be eligible. The transaction must close by June 30, 2010. But purchase contracts dated June 1st, for example, are not eligible even though they will close prior to July 1st because the contract was executed after the April 30th, 2010 deadline.
First-time Homebuyer: Tax Credit Amount = up to $8,000. How is this calculated? It is 10% of the home’s value or $8,000 whichever is less. So, any home over $80,000 will get a maximum tax credit of $8,000. What is a First-time homebuyer? It is anyone that has not previously owned a home or has not owned a primary residence within the last 36 months. Individuals that currently own second homes or vacation homes but have not lived in them for the past 36 months may still qualify.
Existing Homebuyer: Tax Credit Amount = up to $6,500. This is for current homeowners that have lived in their current home for at least 5 years. So, if you purchased your home 2 years ago you would not qualify.
Military Bonus: If you served in our military for more than 90 days outside of our boarders, you get a one-year extension and have until 2011.
Income Limits: The tax credit begins to phase out for a single person that makes more than $125,000. For married couples it phases out at $225,000. - A Veteran's Final Journey Home!Posted on: 2009-11-10A client of mine who is a Veteran shared this with me:
THIS IS WHAT IS RIGHT WITH AMERICA . YA GOTTA LOVE 'SMALL TOWN USA '
Killed in action the week before, the body of Staff Sergeant First Class John C. Beale was returned to Falcon Field in Peachtree City , Georgia , just south of Atlanta , on June 11, 2009. The Henry County Police Department escorted the procession to the funeral home in McDonough , Georgia . A simple notice in local papers indicated the road route to be taken and the approximate time. This was filmed during the procession by a State Trooper.
Nowadays one can be led to believe that America no longer respects honor and no longer honors sacrifice outside the military. Be it known that there are many places in this land where people still recognize the courage and impact of total self-sacrifice. Georgia remains one of those graceful places. The link below is a short travelogue of that day's remarkable and painful journey. But only watch this if you wish to have some of your faith in people restored. Please share widely.
http://blip.tv/play/%20%20AYGJ5h6YgmE
God bless the U.S.A.
Thank a Veteran for Your Freedom!Website:blip.tv/play/%20%20AYGJ5h6YgmE - Candidates are Named!Posted on: 2009-10-13Don't forget we have an election on November 17, 2009. This November three candidate seats are up for reelection;
Robin Taylor, Robert Coffman and David Katz. Unfortunately Robin
Taylor and Robert Coffman will not be in the running due to other commitments.
Homeowners who have turned in their candidate statements
are Mark Shapiro, Dianne Gillespie, Hap Cole, Gina Stubbert , Donald Truitt and Charlean Allen. Names are listed in the order of which they submitted to run for the board!
It is so important that everyone get out and vote! - Big Lot's Shopping Center UpdatePosted on: 2009-10-13See the attached new rendering of the the Beach Promenade Shopping Center. Shortly after the city council meeting in May, the City Council agreed to work with the land owners and incorporate the frontage road into the redevelopment. In August the City Council approved selling the frontage road to the developers of the shopping center to permit expansion of the parking lot, new access points to Beach Boulevard and future development of three new retail buildings along Beach, as shown on the attached site plan. No hotels or high rise buildings are proposed - only one and two story buildings. The old Bank of America building is 2 stories and they propose that one of the buildings that will be closest to Beach Blvd and the back to the Apartments parking lot would be the additional 2 story structure.
The revised project must go back through the City's approval process, which they hope to accomplish by year end. They have a number of great tenants interested in the project, but will need City approvals before we can commit to leases.
Stay tuned!
Click Here for Rendering
-
Back Pack WinnerPosted on: 2009-09-08Griffin Lotts won the back to school back pack drawing!
Thanks to all who entered the contest!
- Election Time is Right Around the CornerPosted on: 2009-09-08Surfside has 3 positions that are up for election this November.
Robin Taylor, Robert Coffman and David Katz must all toss their hats in the ring if they intend to run for the board again. Deadline is September 18, 2009 and you must submit it to Merit Property Management.
How about some new faces to join? -
Community BBQ a Huge SuccessPosted on: 2009-08-12Jim Korona Chairperson of the Social Committee and Member at Large for the Board of Directors cooked and flipped burgers with his neighbor Robert . They cooked over 140 burgers and 110 hot dogs. We had offsite owners visit as well as the people who live right here in Great Ole Surfside!
It seemed that the banner reminded folks of our Social Gathering which provided for a steady stream of residents throughout the day.
There was a table set up for emergency repsonse information CERT for a few hours.
The pinata was a great hit especially after the bounce house sprung a leak. Not to worry the kids decided they would try out the pool!
Many thanks to all who pitched in and helped out! Wendy, Jody, Martha, Mary, David and many others.
By the way the Bounce House ended up to be free since it fizzled early! More money for the next party! Thanks to some star negotiators we have!
- Back To School DrawingPosted on: 2009-08-12Look for the flyers coming to your door soon that explains about the back to school back pack loaded with school supplies. Or see the neighborhood contest page.
-
Community BBQPosted on: 2009-06-09Save August 2 for a Community BBQ! Jim Korona is heading up the Social Committe and in addition to planning the Community BBQ he is in the process of revamping the interior of the clubhouses with his Committee! Stay tuned! -
The Paint ProjectPosted on: 2009-06-09I am sure you have all noticed that the painting project has begun. We have a wood working team that is moving ahead of the painters that is repairing or replacing the wood and shutters that have been designated for replacement. The north clubhouse has been completed. Please see the neighborhood picture section on Paint Project that will show you what your model will look like. It is looking marvelous!
Remember if you still have the original windows they might not keep all the water out when they power wash your front. Watch for notices for your building on your front doors. - Big Lot's Revitalization ApprovedPosted on: 2009-06-09May 4th the City Council approved the one story remodel of the Big Lot's Shopping Center. That is great news for the community.
We have a new coffee shop and Chinese restaurant in the center. The bank building will become Rite Aid. Check out the story posted on this same page 1/12/2009 it has PDF files that you can click on and see the plans. -
Garage Sale Sales Lighter Than ExpectedPosted on: 2009-05-08Even though we had over 40 families that participated in the Surfside Annual Garage Sale. There was a much lighter turn out of would be bargain shoppers than expected. It didn't stop one neighbor from helping another neighbor by purchasing their wares. The Penny Saver ad ran in over 56 areas as well as posted on Craig's List in a multitude of areas.
The cinnamon rolls were a big hit this year. We no longer have a Krispy Kremes Donuts local, so I changed to Cinnamon Rolls from the Albertson's at Atlanta and Magnolia.
Go to Neighborhood Pictures and Garage Sale to see the pictures of the neighbors having fun meeting neighbors.
Neighborhood boys pose for a picture. They sure are getting big.
Jay who is always excited about the garage sale as well as life in general!
See who you recognize. - Pictures submitted from a proud owner of Desert TortoisesPosted on: 2009-04-29See what happens to some of our flowers.
-
Rainbow Over SurfsidePosted on: 2009-04-07Taken March 22, 2009
A double Rainbow is forming, check out the pictures under Community Pictures Category Sky Shots. Follow the link. - Foreclosure Scams and HelpPosted on: 2009-04-07Foreclosure scams are destructive, deceptive, and devastating to families who are fighting to survive. We have families on the edge of foreclosure that are being offered relief too good to be true, and we at HUD will take every possible measure to educate and protect consumers and homeowners, bring these scams to light, and prevent con artists from exploiting the housing crisis. There are legitimate people, places, and agencies that American families can turn to when they are facing foreclosure, and many of you are working on these efforts.
Homeowners NEVER have to pay to participate in the President’s Making Home Affordable program. I encourage anyone trying to modify or refinance their loans to a monthly mortgage payment that is affordable to visit the Making Home Affordable website at makinghomeaffordable.gov.
Homeowners can also call the Homeowner’s HOPE Hotline at 1-888-995-HOPE for free foreclosure counseling assistance.
Making Home Affordable
www.makinghomeaffordable.gov
HUD Approved Counselor
www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/ hcs.cfm
HUD
www.hud.gov
HUD Housing Counseling
800-569-4287
Hope Now
888-995-4673
Website:makinghomeaffordable.gov. - Making Home AffordablePosted on: 2009-03-10On Tuesday, February 10th, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner outlined a comprehensive plan to restore stability to our financial system. In the address, Secretary Geithner discussed the Obama Administration’s strategy to strengthen our economy by getting credit flowing again to families and businesses, while imposing new measures and conditions to strengthen accountability, oversight and transparency in how taxpayer dollars are spent. And Secretary Geithner explained how the financial stability plan will be critical in supporting an effective and lasting economic recovery. Following is a website with information about the 'Making Home Affordable' programs. It includes a fact sheet, guidelines, and Q&A.Website:financialstability.gov/
- Pools Are ClosedPosted on: 2009-02-10Both of the Pools are currently closed to replace the drains to comply with the Virgina Graham Baker Act. The act calls for new drains so that no one can be trapped at the bottom of the pool by catching their hair in the drain. Hopefully they will be open sometime in late March early April.
-
New Perimeter Wall StartedPosted on: 2009-01-13Many of you know that John Laing is developing new homes (someday) behind our property on the south east corner. The agreement was that they would replace our existing wall and landscaping that they removed. The wall will be relocated on the actual Boundary lines of Surfside and we gain approximately 5 feet of land from the east end of Foxhall to the end of the South Clubhouse on the East side. The wall has been started and you can now see how high it is and what it will look like. This photo was taken from inside the South pool area. Stay tuned for future updates!
-
Upcoming Paint ProjectPosted on: 2008-09-11Check out the color boards for the upcoming paint project that are posted at the South Clubhouse, and then email your thoughts, concerns, and or questions.Email:surfsideopinion@aol.com -
Fire Works Over SurfsidePosted on: 2008-07-10We survived another year of 4th of July in Surf City USA!
I have included some photos of the fireworks from Surfside. If anyone else has any they would like to submit, we will get them posted. Be Thankful of our Freedom! Freedom isn't Free! Thank a Vet!
