Board Abides by Stay, Takes No Action at Meeting LED Lights Bring a Different Glow

64 Pages·2017·7.78 MB·English

Leisure World News
OF MARYLAND
October 5, 2018 • Published Twice a Month • residents.lwmc.com • leisureworldmaryland.com
LED Lights Bring a
Different Glow
by Kimberly Y. Choi, their benefits after the initial
Leisure World News purchase: they recover the cost
with their energy efficiency and
Light-emitting diode (LED) reduced need for maintenance.
fixtures are increasingly They also improve visibility by
replacing the conventional emitting a bluer light, according
incandescent lamps and lamps to Ohan.
based on gas vapor around With the former lighting,
Leisure World. residents sometimes complained
“I wasn’t willing to gamble on that community streets were ill-lit
them at first,” says Tim Ohan, at night. LED bulbs come in a
foreman of the electrical depart- far wider variety of colors than
ment of Leisure World’s Physical vapor lights, Ohan says, ranging
Properties Department (PPD). from the yellow of typical sodium
Though he knew of their benefits, streetlights to the full spectrum of
LED light fixtures are consider- daylight.
ably more expensive than usual At one point, resident artists
lighting, and Ohan would not requested daylight-spectrum
purchase them until he was sure lighting for the Art Studio in
they would last. Clubhouse I, but some were not
As the market grew better pleased with the change. Lamps
Montgomery Mutual property manager Steve Wischmann assists a resident
acquainted with LEDs, he became that imitate the sun might help
as she learns how to navigate the resident website, (residents.lwmc.com), and
convinced of their durability. artists select their colors but can
her mutual’s portal during a presentation and training session Sept. 20. The
Though Ohan selected high- be harsh on the eyes. PPD instead
presentation and training, periodically conducted by Leisure World of Maryland
quality fixtures from the leading opts for a color in the 3500K to
Corporation staff members, is available to all Leisure World mutuals. For more
brands, PPD was able to save 4000K range, which lies between
information, see page 2. Photo by Maureen Freeman, Leisure World News
money as a result of suppliers’ the two extremes.
eagerness for Leisure World’s The outdoor lamps, like all Board Abides by Stay,
business and Pepco rebates. streetlights in Leisure World,
The fixtures indeed proved ➤ to page 3
Takes No Action at
Meeting
by Stacy Smith, Leisure World News resident’s complaint filed in late
August claiming that LWCC
In compliance with an automatic “[failed] to hold election(s) in
stay placed on it by the violation of the State of Mary-
Montgomery County Commission land Homeowners Association
on Common Ownership Act.” County code requires that
Communities (CCOC), the while a CCOC complaint is being
Leisure World Community processed a community associa-
Corporation (LWCC) board of tion “must not take any action to
directors took no action at its enforce or implement the associ-
regular meeting Sept. 25. ation’s decision [i.e. the subject of
An LED light is installed by a Physical Properties department staff member at the
The CCOC placed the auto-
Administration Building parking lot. Photo by Stacy Smith, Leisure World News
matic stay in response to a ➤ to page 3
Governance & Information ....4 Club Trips Listing.................47
Holiday Schedule. ..................4 Sports, Games &
E Thoughts & Opinions .............6 Scoreboards ........................48
D Classes & Seminars ............52 For Monday, Oct. 8, Columbus
Events & Entertainment ......12
I
S Calendar of Events ..............55 Day hours and closings, see
Movie Schedule ...................18
N
Governance Meeting page 4.
I Health & Fitness .................20
Schedules ............................55
Clubs, Groups &
Classifieds ...........................58
Organizations ......................26
Hands-On Help for a Digital World
Mutuals Offer Training for Resident Website
“Everyone left excited,” said A Session Near You
Dave Merritt, senior business/ The websites’ presentation
systems analyst for LWMC and and training sessions are
Montgomery Mutual resident. available during the daytime
He added that many residents and evening to accommodate
tell him they see the websites’ residents’ schedules, often
value and are curious to see over with more than one session to
time how they might help save choose from.
costs in Leisure World. Residents who would like
Merritt, who had a hand in their mutual to offer the
helping prepare the launch of presentation and training are
(residents.lwmc.com) in October encouraged to contact their
of last year, said he personally mutual assistant or property
uses the website almost every manager.
day. The following is a list of
“I can now get the information contact information for each
Two Montgomery Mutual residents help each other during a training session on
I want 24 hours a day,” he said. mutual:
the resident website. Photo by Maureen Freeman, Leisure World News
by Leisure World News mutual’s website. Mutual Assistant/
Mutual Phone
The presentation also Property Manager
Leisure World of Maryland includes a drawing for a chance Montgomery Mutual Steve Wischmann (301-598-1081)
Corporation (LWMC) staff for one attendee to win a Leisure
5, 6A, 7 and 19A Jennifer Quinteros (301-598-1369)
offer a free presentation and World restaurant gift certificate.
6B, 8, 12 and 22 Alicia Drummond (301-598-1031)
training session to residents At the end of the session,
6C Wendy Bethke (301-598-1335)
of any mutual who would like residents have the opportunity
help learning how to sign up to sign up to use (residents. 9 Kenia Ibanez (301-598-1370)
for and use the resident website lwmc.com) and practice navi- 10, 15, 16, 19B and 25 Roberta Carter (301-598-1316)
(residents.lwmc.com) and their gating it and their mutual’s
11 and 18 Monica Tejada (301-598-1371)
mutual website. website. Staff members are
13, 14, 25 and 27 Kelly Barton (301-598-1338)
The presentation portion, available to provide assistance
which is roughly 75 minutes and answer questions. 17A Catherine Seger (301-598-1540)
long, explains the benefits of 17B JoAnn Mauzy (301-598-1520)
having a login-based, resident Seeing Potential
20A Marina Talavera (301-598-1505)
and non-resident homeown- Most recently, LWMC staff
20B Lynn House (301-598-1530)
ers-only website and portals to provided presentations and
21 Sandy Abram (301-598-1337)
the mutual websites, provides training to Creekside, Turn-
an overview of the websites’ berry Courts and Fairways 23 Alisia Madariaga (301-598-1050)
features, including the mobile South. The latest sessions, held
24 Cristian Juarez (301-598-1075)
app One Call Now, and admin- Sept. 20 and Oct. 1 of this year,
26 Elizabeth Schultz (301-598-5800)
isters a demo of both (residents. were well attended by residents
27 Carol Koendarfer (301-598-1534)
lwmc.com) and that particular of Montgomery Mutual.
A S P E N H I L L Leisure World News
E XXO N OF MARYLAND
An official publication of the Leisure World Community Corporation, Leisure World
301-871-6777 Auto Care News is published twCicoem mmounnthiclya tbioyn Lse iAsduvries oWryo rCldo mStmafitf tiene c.ollaboration with the
Leisure World News is published for the benefit of Leisure World residents. Its mission is
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to contribute articles of general interest. All matters concerning the Leisure World News will
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Maureen Freeman, Alan J. Goldstein, Chair
•Complete Automotive Maintenance Service & Repair • Most Makes & Models
• Two Years/24 Month Warranty • Factory Scheduled Maintenance Director of Communications Bernie Ascher, Vice Chair
Stacy Smith, Senior Editor [email protected]
Auto Service Discounts
Kathleen Brooks,
Resident Contributors
Senior Communications Associate
Mary Catherine Bibro, Barbara Braswell,
Oil Change Service Special - $29.95 Kimberly Y. Choi, Communications Associate
Rincy Pollack, Arthur N. Popper
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5 Qts of synthetic blend 5W/30 oil and Marilyn Boesch
Editorial: [email protected]
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Leisure World News of Maryland reserves the right to reject or discontinue any advertisement
Present this Coupon with Incoming Order. Expires October 31, 2018
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2 | Leisure World News October 5, 2018
response, and that’s how we’re of operations at Leisure World’s scheduling guide and made
Board
going to approach it,” Eisenhaur MedStar Health medical center, changes to its waiting room to
said, adding that if management provided the board with a improve patient comfort.
➤
from page 1
does not know the answer to a quarterly report on the medical
the CCOC complaint].” question during a board meeting, center’s progress. Proposals
The LWCC maintains that it will follow up with the resident Among the approximately The Special Strategic Planning
its directors are chosen by each later. 207 medical center patients who Committee (SSPC), which is
mutual in accord with LWCC Eisenhaur reminded residents completed a patient survey as of tasked with developing a long-
bylaws, and has filed a coun- to state their name and mutual Aug. 1, approximately 78 percent range strategic plan for the Trust,
termotion, along with Leisure before asking their question or rated their visit a 9 or 10 on a is reviewing four proposals it
World of Maryland Corporation, making their comment, for both scale of 1-10. When compared received from consulting compa-
requesting that the CCOC lift the those in the room and those who with historical data, patient satis- nies for the project, and is in the
automatic stay. will watch later on channel 974. faction at the medical center is process of interviewing these
The CCOC was required to Questions regarding operations trending upwards. companies, according to the
issue a decision to either grant or are best directed to the advisory Despite increasing patient LWCC board and SSPC member
deny the countermotion by Oct. 4. committee to which they pertain, satisfaction, however, primary Phil Marks.
Check (residents.lwmc.com) for he said. Eisenhaur also recom- and specialty care volumes The Technology Advisory
updates on the CCOC's decision. mended pre-submitting questions dropped for the medical center’s Committee is evaluating five
In the "Your Community" drop- to the board via (board@lwmc. first quarter and are trending proposals it received from
down menu, click on "Commu- com), and that, to expedite meet- downward. Comcast, Verizon, RCN, Hotwire
nity News." ings, each resident be allowed one “I’m taking my time as a new and Kent, for internet/broadband
question or statement. manager to really dive into these service for 2020 and beyond.
Open Forum The current open forum results and understand why, so I
The LWCC board is planning policy, applicable to LWCC board can give you a better idea of what Other Updates
to review its open forum policy, meetings and last revised in 2013, the root cause is by the next quar- The old fitness center in Club-
according to LWCC board chair is located on (residents.lwmc. terly meeting,” Giambrone said. house II is still in the process of
Paul Eisenhaur. In addition to com). Click on the “Documents” In an effort to further improve being converted to a room for
the opportunity to comment on dropdown arrow, and then the patient experience and attract ping pong tables, with painting
agenda items on which action will “Board of Directors” folder. The new clientele, the medical center and flooring being added, and
be taken, open forum provides an document is named “2013-05-01 is collaborating with MedStar the floor expected to be laid
opportunity for residents to speak Open Forum Policy Revised.” Montgomery Medical Center and down within the coming weeks.
at the end of each regular meeting the Health Advisory Committee After the meeting adjourned,
of the LWCC board. MedStar Report to develop more structured board members entered into a
“Every question deserves a Kellia Giambrone, manager educational programming for the closed session to discuss legal
community, and is evaluating the matters.
LED
completed a project that began
safety and security of the building The next meeting of the
two years ago to convert its inte-
➤ in partnership with the Physical LWCC board of directors is
from page 1
rior and exterior lights to LEDs.
Properties Department. Tuesday, Oct. 30, at 9:30 a.m.
are designed to prevent excess However, LEDs light up more The medical center has also in Clubhouse I. Board meetings
light from leaking into the night than lobbies and streets at Villa. extended some of its services are open to all residents unless
sky and contributing to light The community discussed hours, increased the size of its legally closed.
pollution. ways to make the Leisure
World Boulevard entrance to ➤ Jewish War Veterans
Time to Change the Villa Cortese more prominent.
Charles B. Krieger Post 567
Lightbulb When the idea of a new sign
The most recent LED was rejected for obstructing the
Calling All Veterans
installation projects are in the street, Arlene Reba, a resident
Clubhouse I lobby, Clubhouse on the mutual’s Landscape
II’s indoor pool and the Admin- Committee and Building and by Fred Shapiro
istration Building parking lot. Grounds Committee, pushed
When the suspended lights for the illumination of the The Jewish War
over the indoor pool were failing dogwood tree on that street Veterans Post 567 is
and incurred a high cost, PPD corner. conducting a community-
recognized the time was ripe to At first, Villa Cortese wide census to determine
convert them to LED. The new installed solar-powered incan- how many military
fixtures will not even require descent lights around the tree, veterans are currently The 94th AAA Battalion marches in
maintenance for another five but the community wasn’t living in Leisure World. Wackernheim, Germany, in 1955, where
years. impressed. The lights were The census will Jewish War Veteran member Fred Shapiro
PPD’s next project is weak, and due to the tree’s enable Leisure World served as a photographer and journalist.
installing three new lights in the shade, they often absorbed too programs to better address Photo by Fred Shapiro
parking lot behind the medical little sunlight during the day to the needs of all military
center. The lot has been rather last through the night. veterans living here, and in Reserves and ROTC programs.
dark for pedestrians, and it will LED lights solved the particular, to plan communi- Census question-
be LEDs that bring the place its problem: they, like the ty-wide programs and ceremo- naires are available in the
new illumination. solar-powered lights, added nies dedicated to veterans. Clubhouse I E&R office. Pick
little to the mutual’s electricity The census is not limited to one up, fill it out, and return it
Brightening Villa Cortese usage, while casting a much Jewish veterans; all veterans are to the Clubhouse I E&R office by
Attracted by the energy brighter light. Villa Cortese has invited to participate. Included Friday, Nov. 30.
savings, some mutuals are also since also implemented decora- in the census are any men and For questions, contact Fred
implementing LED lighting on tive LED lights around its stone women who served in any Shapiro at (fshapiro@comcast.
their own grounds. Villa Cortese obelisk. branch of the armed forces, the net).
October 5, 2018 Leisure World News | 3
GOVERNANCE
& Information
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
Dial 301-598-1313
Monday, Oct. 8, Columbus Day
for recorded Daily Events
Administration ..............................................Closed
CLUBHOUSE I
2018 Broadcast Schedule - Channel 974
Education & Recreation ................................10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Eyre Travel .....................................................Closed Executive Committee meetings are broadcast on Wednesday,
Rossmoor Library ..........................................Closed Thursday and Friday the week after the meeting. Board of Direc-
Clubhouse Grille ............................................Closed tors meetings are broadcast on Monday, Wednesday and Friday
Stein Room ....................................................9 a.m.-8 p.m. the week after the meeting. All broadcasts are at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Terrace Room ................................................9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Executive Committee Meeting Board of Directors Meeting
CLUBHOUSE II The Oct. 19 meeting airs on The Oct. 30 meeting airs on
Oct. 24, 25 and 26. Nov. 5, 7 and 9.
Education & Recreation ................................8 a.m.-6 p.m.
FISH Desk ......................................................Closed
Fitness Center ................................................4:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Group Email Addresses
Swimming Pool (Indoor) ...............................noon-6 p.m.
OTHER SERVICES Residents wishing to contact Leisure World Management or a specific
department, the LWCC Board of Directors, or the Executive Committee
Golf Course & Pro Shop .................................7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. may send an email to the appropriate email address listed below. It will
MedStar Health .............................................Open automatically be forwarded to all members of that group who have an
MedStar Pharmacy ........................................Open email address on record.
Physical Properties Department (PPD) ........Closed Messages to any of the email groups should pertain only to the man-
Post Office ......................................................Closed agement and operation of Leisure World trust properties, services, or
Security Gates ................................................Open activities. Please do not send emails to multiple addresses, as there will
Signal Financial Federal Credit Union ..........Closed be a duplication of recipients and will not result in a faster response to
your question or comment. Messages pertaining to mutuals or anything
Shuttle Buses: No shuttle service. Call Main Gate for else which Management, the Board of Directors, or Executive Commit-
supplemental transportation. tee does not control should also not be sent to these groups.
Trash Collection: No trash or recycling collection. Trash The group email addresses are:
collection will be on the next regular day for your location. • LWMC Management - [email protected]
• LWCC Board of Directors - [email protected]
Oct. 11: MVA Mobile
• LWCC Executive Committee - [email protected]
• Administration - [email protected]
• Communications - [email protected]
Office Returns
• Education and Recreation - [email protected]
• Physical Properties - [email protected]
Need to do business photo identification cards and • Security - [email protected]
with Maryland’s Motor vehicle registration.
Vehicle Administration? The You also can obtain a dupli- Oct. 21: ‘Chat with the
MVA on Wheels returns to cate driver’s license, a certified
Leisure World on Thursday, copy of a driving record,
Chair’ of LWCC Board
Oct. 11. disability placards, substitute
The van will be located in stickers, return tags and dupli-
the Clubhouse II parking lot, cate registrations, as well as
by Leisure World News
where the hours of operation apply for a change of address.
are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. If you need to register to On Sunday, Oct. 21, Leisure World
Services offered include vote and/or want to register
Community Corporation board
renewal of non-commercial as an organ donor, you can do
of directors chair Paul Eisenhaur
driver’s licenses, Maryland that at the mobile office, too.
hosts an Open Resident Forum, "Chat
with the Chair," from 4-6 p.m. in the
Oct. 19: Painting Clubhouse I Crystal Ballroom.
The event is an opportunity for
residents to learn about Leisure
Begins at Crosswalks
World governance and have their
questions answered. Additionally,
LWCC board of directors
Beginning Friday, Oct. 19, crosswalks Dr. Jim Leong, Technology Advisory
president Paul Eisenhaur.
Committee chair, will provide an
on Leisure World Boulevard and
Photo by Leisure World News
overview of broadband/internet
Gleneagles Drive will be repainted.
services.
Residents are asked to drive slowly and
The Open Resident Forum is free and open to all resi-
carefully where crews are working. The
dents. Tickets are not required, but residents planning
project is expected to take one to two
to attend are asked to RSVP by either dropping by the
weeks to complete. Photo by Leisure
Clubhouse I E&R office or calling (301-598-1300).
– Leisure World News World News
4 | Leisure World News October 5, 2018
➤ Communications Advisory Committee
Oct. 22: AARP Safe
Help Us Communicate
Driving Course and
by Alan J. Goldstein for the 2019 year. Preferred
requirements include the
Workshop
The Communications ability to communicate via
Advisory Committee (CAC) email which is essential.
needs your help. Members of the Communi- The E&R Department Smart DriverTEK workshop on
Leisure World is in the midst cations Advisory Committee sponsors an AARP Safe the latest safety technology in
of a wave of change. Its main must also have education, Driving Course on Monday, Oct. today’s automobiles. The cost for
method of communication training and/or experience in 22, in Clubhouse I from 9:45 the workshop is $5.
has been Leisure World News, journalism and/or marketing a.m.-3 p.m., with a one-hour Register for the course and/
which has evolved over the communications through any break for lunch. or the workshop beginning on
past several years from a small digital, electronic, print or Preregistration for the course Tuesday, Oct. 9, at 8:30 a.m.
newsletter to a professionally other channel. This includes is required. A check payable to in the Clubhouse I E&R office.
edited newspaper. online publishing, blog- AARP, $15 for AARP members Please bring your Leisure World
And now, the scope of Leisure ging, social media or email with current membership ID.
World’s efforts is evolving to marketing. card, and $20 for non-mem- Participants should bring
include extensive online and The CAC meets the third bers, is required at the time of their driver’s license and a pen
electronic communications. Thursday of each month at registration. or pencil to the course. For ques-
The community has two closed 10 a.m. in Clubhouse I. If Also offered after the course tions, contact the Clubhouse I
circuit TV channels that are interested in joining, visit your at 3:30 p.m. is a 90-minute E&R office at (301-598-1300).
being modernized with improved mutual’s property manager or
content, and soon, high-resolu- mutual assistant to obtain and Understanding General
tion equipment. fill out an advisory committee
Even more importantly, application. Applications are
Election Ballot Questions
Leisure World has two new also available for download
websites (one for residents, and on (residents.lwmc.com);
one for prospective residents and click on the link in the news by Ken Muir selected from names supplied by
others outside the community), alert section at the top of the the Democratic and Republican
websites for each mutual, social homepage. On the General Election central committees, plus one
media and multiple RSS feeds. Interested residents may ballot, there will be five named by the County Council.
Along with the Communications also attend the Committee’s questions – two that amend Approval of this Question
department’s plans to expand next meeting on Thursday, the Maryland Constitution, would change the Commission
content and features on the resi- Oct. 18, to see the Committee and three that amend the from nine to 11 registered
dent website, the Committee is in action. The deadline for Montgomery County Charter. voters, include at least one but
actively exploring other tools such applying for the 2019 year is The following is a brief expla- no more than four members of
as email communications. Wednesday, Oct. 31. nation of the five questions that each political party that received
For questions or further will be on the ballot. 15 percent of the total vote in
Members Needed information, contact Alan State Question 1 provides the last election, and at least
The Committee is currently Goldstein, CAC chair, at for the so-called “education one member from each Council
seeking additional members ([email protected]). lockbox.” It requires the election district.
Governor to include in the County Question B
annual state budget revenue changes the County Charter to
Leisure World of
from video lottery licenses require that a vote for a property
and other commercial gaming tax increase that exceeds the
Maryland Resales for the benefit of K-12 public consumer price index must be
education. unanimous. This allows the
In recent years, these funds Council to act when there is a
July through September, 2018
have supplanted general fund vacancy.
revenue required by state County Question C
RESALES FUND FEES education funding formulas. If changes the County Charter
MONTH RESALES
COLLECTED this question passes, gaming wording regarding aides to
July 52 $209,660.02 revenue dollars will supplement Councilmembers. Current
spending on public schools. wording provides for one aide
Aug. 40 $146.256.00
State Question 2 authorizes not covered by the Merit System
Sept. 39 $180.459.68
the Maryland General Assembly (similar to Civil Service protec-
TOTAL 131 $536.375.70
to pass legislation that would tions). The proposal would allow
enable people to register to vote all aides (four each) to not be
The buyer of a home in Leisure World of Maryland
at their polling place on Election covered by this protection.
contributes two percent of the home’s selling price to the
Day.
Resales Fund. Currently, those funds are used exclusively
County Question A amends For more information about
for Facilities Enhancement Plan (FEP) projects, which are
the County Charter to change ballot questions or candidates,
selected by the Leisure World Community Corporation board
the way that a Redistricting consult the League of Women
of directors.
Commission is appointed every Voters’ Voters Guide, which is
Recent FEP projects include the Fitness Center in
10 years to change county available in the Administration
Clubhouse II and renovations to the restaurant and Maryland
election districts. Currently Building, Clubhouse I, Club-
Room in Clubhouse I.
the Redistricting Commission house II and high-rise mutuals
– Leisure World News
has nine members: four each prior to the General Election.
October 5, 2018 Leisure World News | 5
THOUGHTS & OPINIONS:
From Our Residents
bettering themselves physically of their ability. We all must
A Few Things to
and intellectually. They understand and appreciate it.
engage in criticism of others, On one hand, I find so much
Remember disrespect differing political apathy amongst residents;
views and show malaise and an not many attend LWCC board
absence of patriotism. meetings. I also firmly believe
Relevance: Make sure that your submission is relevant to
They watch meaningless TV that some residents who are
the LW community as a whole and not to just
one person, mutual, or organization. programs, have an ignorance not on the LWCC board or
of world events and many any of its committees should
Respect: Remember that your opinion is about ideas, not
show religious indifference. be reviewing and monitoring
individuals, and please avoid personal attacks.
Some do not show apprecia- the operation and governance
tion to the many volunteers of Leisure World with open
Brevity: Being concise will ensure that your opinion will and staff and administration minds; but constant criticism
have maximum impact. employees who truly work for by these few can never be
our benefit. constructive for residents.
Let us be more aware of our In any case, no resident
Accuracy: Document all factual assertions. Opinions that
own faults and improve our should be insinuating anything
are backed up with facts are more powerful, but
only if the facts are accurate. social skills. Just be nice and without proof or insulting any
others will reciprocate in kind. members on the LWCC board
Ownership: All submissions are subject to editing but you
– P.D. Wendkos or management, or any resi-
will have the opportunity to approve the edits
dent. No one has a right to be
before publication.
OPEN FORUM, uncivil.
This lawsuit brought by a
Opinions are strictly those of the writers. Thoughts and Opinions is COMPLAINTS AND
very few, to have a different
maintained by the Communications Advisory Committee.
LAWSUIT system of governance, already
SILENT TOO LONG tion to costing the community has started costing residents.
a great deal of money. Please In an open forum of a The LWCC board has approved
This space in the Leisure familiarize yourself with the Leisure World Community $25,000 to start with. If the
World News appears to lawsuit they have filed and Corporation (LWCC) board of plaintiffs win the suit, it has
have been hijacked by the know that it will be necessary directors meeting, residents serious ramifications. It will
anti-Administration Building to opt out to not be included as have an opportunity to voice be expensive and chaotic to
contingent. Those of us a participant in the class action opinions about the LWCC conduct elections for members
who support our current suit. board, management or matters on the LWCC board. It will
management and the new Is everything perfect in discussed. open a Pandora’s box of all
building are guilty of being Leisure World? No – and it But a resident cannot kinds of problems.
silent for too long. never will be, here or anywhere find any forum to address a I am a completely neutral
Leisure World is a wonderful else. However, we need to work small group of residents who person in Leisure World. I urge
place to live. In addition to all on the issues constructively complain about anything or residents to carefully consider
the amenities offered within and cooperatively to make criticize those involved in our any overtures by this tiny group
the community, the proximity improvements. Lawsuits and welfare. Such action by these and not quickly embrace them.
to the Greater Washington, COCC complaints are divisive, few residents hasn’t done an – S. Sam Verma
D.C., area provides us with iota to improve residents’
expensive and wasteful.
unlimited cultural and histor- welfare.
– Janet Martin FEARING FACTS?
ical venues. Add to that the fact Is the LWCC board or
that Leisure World is one of management perfect? No, WHY NOT JUST ASK?
WHAT’S WRONG
the more inexpensive areas to they cannot be, they’re human
Misunderstandings
live in the area and you have a WITH RESIDENTS OF beings. It is very demanding
abound. Everywhere!
trifecta of opportunity. and a challenge to run and
LEISURE WORLD? Why add to the growing
Unfortunately, a group of manage a community like
“misinformation landfill?”
residents (who purport to Io ften encounter folks around Leisure World. The members
Yet that is what occurred in a
represent all of us) are threat- Leisure World who waste their on the LWCC board do the
letter in the Sept. 7 edition of
ening our way of life, in addi- time and just stagnate without volunteer work to the best
SUBMITTING AN ITEM TO THOUGHTS & OPINIONS
1. Submissionsmustbeemailedto[email protected]ordeliveredtotheLWNewsOffice.
2. Receiptofsubmissionswillbeconfirmedbyemailortelephone.
3. Submissionsmuststatethewriter’sname,address,telephonenumber,andemailaddress,ifany,butifthematerialispublished,
itwillincludeonlythewriter’sname.
4. LW News cannot guarantee when or if a submission will be published.
5. ToviewthefullLeisureWorldNewsGuidelines,loginto(residents.lwmc.com)andclickonDocuments,thenselecttheAdvisory
and Special Committees folder, and click the Communications folder.
6 | Leisure World News October 5, 2018
Leisure World News, entitled tainty, they do not auger crisis! FURTHER THOUGHTS about the Administration
“Be Careful What You Wish In so many ways, it is time Building; they ask for all actions
ON GOVERNANCE
For.” to re-remember the words of by the Leisure World Commu-
Were “fears” deliberately FDR: “The only thing we have The reaction was swift and nity Corporation (LWCC) board
implanted using subtlety? Only to fear…” overwhelming. of directors to cease immedi-
the author can say for sure. The lawsuit is highly unlikely At least 200 people stopped ately. No kidding.
Read it if you haven’t, or read to affect anything at all at me in the street, at the club- And, as I recently discovered,
it again. The very title sets the Leisure World unless and until houses and elsewhere thanking this actually effects more than
stage for “worst case scenarios.” a judge issues any order. me for my letter, “Be Careful the Trust; it affects all of the
Dire consequences were preva- If anything changes before- What You Wish For,” that mutuals as well. Each fall, every
lent. This did not have to occur! hand, it will be because the appeared in the Sept. 7 edition mutual signs an M&O Agree-
The class action lawsuit Leisure World Community of Leisure World News, vs. only ment with the Trust, specifying
filed against the Leisure World Corporation board of directors three complaints: one from my services to be purchased from
Community Corporation and made an independent decision wife, who thought I shouldn’t the Trust by the mutual, such
the Leisure World of Maryland to do so. admit to being friends with any as accounting, grounds and
Corporation in Montgomery As a result of having of the plaintiffs, and two visitors HVAC maintenance. The LWCC
County Circuit Court on July consulted with the firm at the last Communications board cannot vote to approve
19, 2018, is the basis behind handling the lawsuit, it is Advisory Committee meeting. the 2019 Mutual Operating
the hypotheses of the opinions my understanding that the I was accused of using scare Agreements, which will prevent
expressed in the letter. A lawsuit’s proposed order tactics. Instead, I should have the Trust from providing any
reasonable effort could have contains a method by which been more precise about what of these services to any mutual
been made by the letter’s any service interruptions can the lawsuit actually asks for, starting on Jan. 1, 2019. Good
author to avoid “merely specu- be avoided while a transition such as: luck getting your air conditioner
lating.” Plaintiffs were known. in governance occurs. The • Item 7, page 5: “…the Court repaired.
Why not call? Get some insight court will be apprised of these should immediately and For the most part, the plain-
into the facts about the case concerns. This is not immi- permanently enjoin the tiffs and their supporters are
beforehand. There was no need nent. Litigation takes time. activities of this unlawfully railing against the duly elected
to “leap before learning.” That As more aspects of the constituted entity.” officials of their own mutuals.
would have been reasonable, lawsuit unfold, the community • Item 86d, page 19: “That With very limited exceptions,
right? will be kept apprised of the the court issue temporary, you must be a current or former
Challenges to what is and “facts” through the communi- preliminary, and permanent member of your mutual’s board
have been Leisure World gover- cation means available; hope- injunctive relief enjoining the to serve on the LWCC board
nance practices for over 40 fully that will include Leisure Defendants from taking any and, in fact, most serving are
years are now pending. While World News. action…” current presidents or other
these “challenges” have uncer- – Marybeth Ardike These requests are not just officers of their mutuals, directly
October 5, 2018 Leisure World News | 7
elected to their boards by their even small mutuals are assured less affluent neighbors. If you money. It is my feeling that it is
mutual’s own residents. adequate representation. Alter- think that is easy, feel free to really all about the new Admin-
We do, however, have repre- natively, there is a benefit to help out. istration Building and how to
sentative democracy in selecting direct elections of officers, since – Alan J. Goldstein delay or stop it.
which popularly elected board it gives everyone an equal say. Let's come together and
member(s) represent each Unfortunately, we can’t have it LEISURE WORLD support our current board,
mutual on the LWCC board. both ways. as they are doing their best
LAWSUIT, ETC.
Representative democracy is not Regardless of what we want to make Leisure World the
a foreign concept in our govern- as a community, it is unlikely As I read the Sept. 7 edition place we all want to love and call
ment. The Founding Fathers that we will have a good home.
of Leisure World News, I
created the Electoral College outcome if our governance – Anne Dobbs
couldn’t help but feel that I am a
with the idea that citizens would structure is dictated by a court
part of the silent majority, who
be better served on average by or the Commission on Common is retired and just wants to live WE NEED PEACE IN
indirect elections of the presi- Ownership Communities
here in Leisure World and be
LEISURE WORLD
dent (regardless of your feelings (CCOC) under duress, and we
happy. We are grateful for the
about the current administra- will all feel the impact. When representatives in each of our The main problem in Leisure
tion). The Speaker of the House you put your future in the hands
mutuals that give of their time World is that too many
and all other officers of the of a judge, jury or commis-
and expertise. people are too angry and
House and Senate as well as sioners who aren’t that familiar
It is upsetting to me that a unwilling to talk calmly to those
our Supreme Court justices and with our circumstances and
small group do not accept the with whom they disagree.
federal judges are appointed by history, almost anything can
majority that are happy and like It seems to me that manage-
our elected officials, rather than happen, since they have pretty
things the way they have been ment and many Leisure World
through direct elections. wide authority.
governed since the buildings Community Corporation
In spite of this, it actually Instead of filing lawsuits, the
were turned over to the resi- (LWCC) board members
might make sense to reconsider complainers might be better off
dents years ago by the builder. consider most Leisure World
our governance structure after volunteering to join committees
The way we are and have been residents to be too ignorant to
50 years, as there are certainly or running for office and doing
governed is nothing new. Each care about — even to the point
pros and cons to the way we the hard work of governing our
mutual selects a representative, of having contempt for the resi-
are organized. The number of community: developing and
those officers form the board dents they have volunteered to
members of our LWCC board, approving budgets, keeping the
that represent each of us. The serve. I have heard some Leisure
at 34, is a bit unwieldy (but roads paved and the community
system has worked for us and it World staff and LWCC board
not nearly as unwieldy as our safe and secure and ensuring
is my opinion that the majority members express that opinion.
Congressional houses a few that our facilities are main-
feels the same. This lawsuit by I suspect that management and
miles down the road), but it tained, without imposing an
a few is going to cost us a lot of the majority of the LWCC board
does have the advantage that undue financial burden on our
8 | Leisure World News October 5, 2018
want to build a new Adminis- also with a need to reconsider is that we need to look at how is too important for the future
tration Building simply to show how Leisure World is governed. Leisure World works and make of Leisure World. Moreover,
that they have the power to do The problem now is that sure that we are operating in a there is no way that the cost for
that, whether it makes sense there is so much emotion tied way that is best for the commu- a rational approach will come
or not, no matter what the cost up in complaints and lawsuits nity now and in the future! anywhere near the costs of acri-
might be. that solutions are not going to Suggestion #1: Let us re-eval- monious fighting and lawsuits.)
By the same token, I believe come easily, nor will they come uate governance of Leisure I am convinced that no resi-
that many, perhaps most, quickly. And, even if we are told World with no preconceived idea dent of Leisure World is enjoying
Leisure World residents by the “authorities” that we have of what the outcome should be. the current level of acrimony,
consider management and most to change governance, I can Let’s take an honest, open and and that every resident wants to
of the LWCC board members to well imagine long debates, argu- fair look at how Leisure World have a community that remains
be stubborn and incompetent. I ments and continued vindictive- works, and then make recom- the best place to live in Mary-
wonder how many LWCC board ness between neighbors, as we mendations as to what might be land. This can only be accom-
members report to their constit- try and work out a new system. done. However, this re-evalu- plished, in my view, if we find a
uents on what the board is doing As a result, I fear that the ation cannot work if residents, way to review our approach to
and why they have voted as they quality of life at Leisure World, with all the current acrimony, are governance and structure in a
have. It may be that some board at least for many residents, will involved in the review. This leads calm and thoughtful manner,
members do not want to have go down if the current debates to: free of disagreement. And, this
that “honor” and do not do any continue. Suggestion #2: To do this should be done by individuals
studying to prepare themselves And one additional conse- review, we need to bring in a who are expert at community
to do a good job, but no one else quence of all this disagreement neutral outside group with real organization, and free from prej-
in their mutual is willing to take is that potential residents will expertise in community gover- udice as to potential outcomes.
the job and do the necessary hear about what is going on and nance and have them do the – Arthur N. Popper
work. question whether they want to review without bias or precon-
The answer is for everyone move to Leisure World. This ceived ideas. Ask them to then LAWSUIT – TWO
to talk calmly with each other. could have a significant impact come back to us with recommen-
THOUGHTS AND A
The only group that can bring on home sales. Indeed, home dations as to the best governance
that about is the LWCC board. prices could stop increasing and approach for Leisure World to PROPOSAL
They could schedule a series of even go down if fewer people ensure its strength, quality of
meetings where board members want to move to Leisure World. life, and future health, well-being The class action lawsuit filed
and residents would be required and growth. No one from Leisure in July against Leisure
to talk calmly with each other. A Potential ‘Solution’ World should be involved in World Community Corporation
An outsider should be asked to Because I am deeply this evaluation other than as (LWCC) and the Leisure World
moderate since there is no trust concerned about our future, I resources. But the outside group of Maryland Corporation stems
by the various groups in Leisure want to offer a set of sugges- should be directed to listen to from an unfortunate failure of
World in each other. This could tions that perhaps will bring the broadest range of residents communications and a perceived
be an elected official who is rationality to the issues at hand in learning about Leisure World lack of respect by the LWCC
liked by just about everyone in – governance at Leisure World. governance and in reaching their board of directors to the Leisure
Leisure World. There are several (And please note, that my conclusions. World community. There
people in that category. personal views on the subject Suggestion #3: After the has been a glaring absence of
If we do not do this, Leisure of re-origination of gover- recommendations are received transparency by the LWCC board
World will spend a great deal nance have no bearing on my and residents have been given a as well as a sense of arrogance
of money, and some residents suggestions.) chance to review and understand in that alternatives, including
will too, and in the end no one My suggestions are based on them, have a neutral group a major renovation, were not
will be satisfied and there will the fact that Leisure World was (perhaps the same group that given greater consideration. The
continue to be anger in Leisure founded over 50 years ago. Over did the report) determine the lawsuit will be expensive and
World. that time, Leisure World has interest of residents in change divide an otherwise tight-knit
Talk – calm talk – and grown (and prospered) and this as per the recommendations community.
compromise is the only way has resulted in growth of the size using fair and open procedures I am deeply concerned about
for everyone in Leisure World of the Leisure World Community that truly has broad input. the future implications of the
to be successful. The ball is in Corporation (LWCC) board Then, if there is a “vote” to lawsuit. For years, I have heard
the court of the LWCC board. of directors and our having a change, have the same group residents demand that the
Are they willing to take steps governance system designed for oversee implementation of the money be returned to them to
to bring about peace in Leisure a much smaller community. At recommendations. rehab their own residence even
World? the same time, even as Leisure What this does is remove the though that would be a flagrant
– Paul M. Bessel World and the world around us issue from acrimonious debate violation of the bylaws, which
has changed, there has been no and make it something that can mandate that the funds be used
RATIONAL consideration of how to make be accomplished in a rationale for maintenance/renovation/
the LWCC board of directors way without neighbor “fighting” replacement of common area
DISCUSSION ON and our governance respond neighbor. Moreover, I suspect facilities.
GOVERNANCE to the changes and work more that were Leisure World to adopt More troubling is the often-
effectively for the good of the a plan along the lines I suggest, heard refrain to shut down facil-
NEEDED community. we could have the review and ities that a majority of residents
So, the thesis I propose is that suggestions within a year of do not personally use. That
Ih ave been following the
it is time, after 50+ years, to starting rather than waiting years could occur if we go to a direct
discussions on Leisure World
carefully and objectively evaluate for a court outcome, and then vote by each resident. For
governance in Leisure World
our governance. I don’t care if having more years of fighting example, if only a minority of
News and elsewhere. I firmly
the outcome says to continue as we even figure out how to our community uses the golf
agree with several earlier letters
as we are, or to just tweak achieve any potential changes. course, then the majority could
about the need for rational
the system, or to make major (And yes, this will be costly, but just vote to shut it down. With
discussion of the issues, and
changes. The important thing cost should be no issue – this that mentality, how likely would
October 5, 2018 Leisure World News | 9
it be to have votes to shut down and our elected representatives lurking within the walls of the members of our community,
the indoor/outdoor pools, the have been wrestling with it for old building, or the desired spent more time than anyone
Computer Learning Center, ping quite a few years. updates to the roadways should have to wrestling with
pong room, Clubhouse II audi- Many of the most senior, and walkways leading to this problem a few years back.
torium, tennis courts, etc. The experienced and knowledge- Clubhouse I or the Administra- After all of their hard work
point being that if an amenity able of our 200 plus staff are tion Building. examining every possible alter-
doesn’t benefit me directly, I working under uncomfortable There was a suggestion to native, they brought their find-
might vote to close it. Creating conditions there each and ‘just bring in a contractor’ to ings and recommendations to
a working budget for Leisure every day, and that doesn’t estimate the cost of repair. No, the Leisure World Community
World would become a help us keep our best and that would be fine if you just Corporation (LWCC) board of
nightmare. brightest employees, or help us needed something fixed. Here, directors. Then, after much
That type of mentality will attract new ones. There is also you won’t know the scope of more agonizing hard work and
destroy our community. That the related issue that 1960 era the work until you perform introspection, the LWCC board
is why we have separate buildings usually have asbestos an expensive invasive study finally settled on the least
mutuals with people elected within their walls, sometimes and break open the walls, and onerous solution.
to represent us within the crumbling, and ancient, then it will most likely be too Since then, they have been
broader context of also doing inefficient and wasteful late. Once asbestos and mold endlessly second-guessed,
what is best for our community heating, cooling, electrical and is exposed, you can’t just sometimes by bright and
as a whole. plumbing systems. replace the sheet rock and go sincere members of our
With that in mind, I have Our Administration Building about your business. You have community, and other times
a proposal: 1.) Submit the has been grandfathered in to close the building, move by less knowledgeable and
lawsuit to mediation with the under outdated building codes, everyone out for an unspeci- enlightened ones. The latter
goal of establishing a refer- but that status disappears the fied period of time and pay the seem to me to be the loudest
endum vote by the community moment we undertake any tab for repairs, whatever that and most persistent. Listening
to either do nothing at this renovations to either change might turn out to be. There is to the uninformed opinions
time with the Administration the building’s configuration or no going back. swirling around has been
Building or, alternatively, to break open the walls to update Yes, it is possible, perhaps like agony to me as a rela-
proceed with some type of old infrastructure. even likely, that at the end of tively recent member of the
project to improve it. 2.) If the There are three possible the day, this solution could community.
vote is in favor of a project, options to this dilemma: save a million or two, or not. Add to the mix a group with
require the LWCC board to (1.) Replace the building. But then we will still have a an agenda, set on building
provide at least one viable The budget for this is 50-year-old building, built to the strength of their own
alternative to full replace- currently about $5.2 million, 1960s standards to support rebel organization, who care
ment of the building and but it most surely will go up 1960s needs, and it’s likely little about the welfare of our
allow the residents to vote to if we delay. Accompanying we’ll be back at square one community and the financial
either replace or renovate in that is a proposed change to in 20 years, not the 50 years well-being of our less affluent
accordance with the proposals the surrounding entry roads, that you typically expect from fellow residents, and we have
presented. The LWCC board parking lots and walkways as a new building. If you think quite a circus – one which is
would agree to work in part of the same master plan, that’s a good decision, my likely to encourage residents
conjunction with the mutuals with a projected total cost heart goes out to you. to leave, and deter new ones
by hosting a series of meetings for everything of about $7.2 (3.) Do nothing. from joining our community.
to consider the pros and cons million. Yikes. Most reasonable people There go our property values,
of each project alternative. (2.) Upgrade the old would agree that this is not as this battle spills over into
– Ronald E. Lyons, Esq. building. an option for the long-term lawsuits and CCOC complaints,
A document floating health of our employees or our potentially paralyzing our
THERE ARE NO around shows a projected community. community.
cost of about $2.3 million, The Community Plan- They speak of petitions,
GOOD CHOICES
but that was prepared with no ning Advisory Committee, which 2,000 plus residents
Yes, this letter is about the consideration or knowledge comprised of hard-working, signed, protesting the plans
of the potential problems conscientious (in my opinion) for a new Administration
Administration Building,
Building. My understanding
is that this was actually an
aggregation of several different
petitions, each with different
demands. To the best of my
knowledge, they never veri-
fied the identity of signers
as residents or deduplicated
between them, or ensured any
consistency between what each
demanded. Please go hire an
accounting firm to audit these
results before you broadcast
them, but not at my expense.
It’s about time someone
called these folks out for their
ill-advised behavior, returning
us to the kinder, gentler
Leisure World we bought
into…in my humble opinion.
– Alan J. Goldstein
10 | Leisure World News October 5, 2018