December 2006

DECEMBER 2006

BOARD MEETING

Treasurer Bill Tennenbaum Gives Financial Update
Bill - 2 Delinquent Accounts
After open discussion with the owners, the meeting of The Regency Tower Board was called to order at 7:10 p.m. on Tuesday, December 12, 2006 in the Meeting Room of The Regency Tower by the President.

Roll Call - The roll call showed the following Board Members present: Iris Anastasi, Eric Berkowitz, Dee Lanzillo, Fern McBride, Bob Nagle, Dott Nicholson-Brown and Bill Tennenbaum (via speakerphone).

Reading of Minutes - The minutes of the meeting of The Regency Tower CY2007 Budget Presentation Meeting held on November 9, 2006 were read. Eric Berkowitz made a motion to approve the minutes as read, seconded by Dee Lanzillo, unanimously approved.

Financial Report - Treasurer Bill Tennenbaum gave a detailed report reflecting the Association’s financial position as of December 12, 2006. (Reported financial details are available to Regency Tower owners in our newsletter, the “Regency Tower Times”. - editor)

There is one (1) delinquent account and five (5) hallway assessments in collection at this time.

A motion was made by Iris Anastasi to accept the Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Eric Berkowitz, unanimously approved.

Secretary Fern McBride
Secretary Fern McBride
Board Vote on CY2007 Budget - Bob Nagle made a motion that the Calendar Year 2007 Budget as presented by the Finance Committee at the November 9, 2006 Board Meeting be approved, seconded by Eric Berkowitz, unanimously approved.

Committee Reports - President Nicholson-Brown then called for Committee Reports. Click Here to read the Committee Reports.

New Business - President Nicholson-Brown then called for New Business. Click Here to read New Business.

Announcements -

Untrue remarks were made regarding skimming money from the Association. After contact by an attorney who stated that the accuser must support the claims or action would be brought and damages assessed, the accuser recanted with a written apology. As in this case, an attorney will become involved if this type of occurrence is repeated. Great awareness of the need for honesty and integrity has been of primary importance with this President and the members of this Board.
Thanked Round Table members, Board members, Committee Chairs and Committee members, and Employees for their work and dedication this past year.
A moment of silence was observed for our employee and friend, Montcalm Gibbons.

Adjournment - A motion was made by Iris Anastasi and seconded by Dee Lanzillo to adjourn the meeting at 8:00 p.m.; unanimously approved.

Fern McBride
Board Secretary

PRESIDENTS REPORT

DECEMBER 2006

“Life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we respond to it.”
- Charles R. Swindoll

.: ♥ Aloha ♥ :.,

Theologian
Charles R. Swindoll
Over the past year I think that about ninety percent of the time, I’ve responded to anger, complaints, criticism, profanity, etc. with patience. However, I draw the line at outright lies which denigrate my ethical standards. (See end of the Board Meeting Notes for explanation).

As another fast-paced year comes to an end, we can look back and recall good and bad, happy and sad times. I can truthfully state there were more happy times than sad times until the last six months of 2006. Rather than get depressed writing about Montcalm Gibbons – our latest sadness, please read Eric’s excellent article elsewhere in this issue of The Regency Times.

This Board came into existence in 2001. During the six years (2001, 02, 03, 04, 05 and 06) we’ve been on board, countless people have contributed to our success. If you’re reading this you’re one of them. We established high standards, specific goals and selected the optimal team to implement the goals. With the assistance of our 5 year Plan Committee, our Round Table, 15 Committees and a wonderful hardworking staff of employees, we accomplished all the items outlined in our 2001 – Five Year Strategic Plan in four years. In 2005, we began adding hurricane windows throughout the building. During 2006 we undertook further improvements; a few which are new Fire Exit Doors, Hurricane Glass Doors throughout Lobby, Hallway Renovation, etc. In other words, we’ve rebuilt the building from the roof to the basement including outside. (pavers, well, fencing, pool re-surfacing).

Galt Mile Presidents Council Meetings

Roving Beach Patrol - Last year we mentioned the Galt Mile Community Association joining the Roving Beach Patrol which now roves up to and includes L’Hermitage. To date two (2) buildings (Edgewater Arms and Southpoint) are preventing the entire Galt Mile buildings from being covered. These are off-duty policemen who rove the beach area and the street area on a 24 hour basis. A couple of weeks ago, here at The Regency we had three fellows deliberately jump up and down on the chaise lounges to destroy the straps. About a month prior someone cut the straps on a pool chair to make a circular hole, then sat on it and defecated. Our lighting does not reach the beach area. The cost is only $20 per unit per year! Can you imagine two Boards resisting this? It is impossible to drive from south to north without including these two buildings and unfair to include them at our expense. So please; we beseech you. Should you know anyone in the two buildings, tell them to get on their board members to get onboard the Roving Patrol Train.

The Round Table

November 2^nd Meeting Members in attendance were: Rafael Alleguez, Shirley Appelman, Laszlo Bandi, Betty Burns, Chris Feneck, Tom Palumbo, Anne Petroe, Jim Rigney, Debi Tinsley, Jean Veitch, Ad Wilson. Ron Forment, Mike O’Carroll and Liz Urbano were excused. Mike advised he would be absent the next two meetings due to marrying his beautiful Thea. Board members present were Iris, Eric, Dee, Fern and Dott.

Laszlo - Slow Down!
The meeting began with a discussion of an incident wherein a resident drove into the garage the wrong way, received a Violation Notice and tore the letter up into small pieces. It was agreed further action was necessary. Anne mentioned the space under the newly installed North Fire Doors. Thresholds will be installed. Ad spoke about the need for fire extinguisher in units. Everyone agreed this is a necessity. Rafael will investigate the different types. Jean suggested a pool tournament to increase game room use. This will be relayed to Social Committee. Laszlo feels more presence of Security is needed in garage and speed limit must be enforced. Tom asked if we are monitoring trucks on upper deck. Response: Trucks weighing more than one ton are prohibited. We do have visitors/owners with pick-up trucks. Shirley added her assent regarding controlling the speed limit in the garage. Betty stated she liked the original idea for front entrance doors. Jim commended Carl Richardson in Security for the way he handled an intruder on the property. Also feels Security is doing a good job. He complimented Halloween decoration. Rafael stated plans should be underway for protection of carpeting when installation is complete and a good vacuum which will not damage the carpet should be purchased. Also stated grocery and luggage cart wheels must be kept clean so as not to dirty carpets when residents and employees roll them down hallways. Also, owners must be careful when carrying garbage to Trash Room to assure nothing is dripping or spilling out. Dee stated when garage is washed; grocery cart wheels are also washed. Ad concurred with purchasing a new vacuum cleaner. Dott stated plans were already underway to purchase protection for carpeting that must be placed down before all Do It Yourself owners, deliverymen and contractors perform any work in units or utility closets. Chris and Debi had no supplementary suggestions to add and stated all is well.

Jean Veitch - 86° is too Cold!
Jean - 86° is too Cold!
December 7^th Meeting - - Members in attendance were: Rafael, Shirley, Laszlo, Chris, Ron, Tom, Anne, Jim, Debi, Jean, Ad. Betty advised she will be absent two meetings. Previously excused were Mike and Liz. Board members present were: Iris, Eric, Fern and Bob.

Two items were immediately addressed by Fern.

Rumors that Montcalm had AIDS were false. The article from Sun-Sentinel was read.
Some owners have not paid their hallway assessment. Request was made that members encourage anyone they may know who have not paid to pay before they are sent to the attorney.

Look for “ABC”
u>Laszlo wanted to know if we could have floor monitors. Consensus was that wouldn’t be practical. When a problem/violation is noticed Security and/or Administration should be notified. Jean feels water in pool at 86 degrees is too cool. (Note: When purchased, the manufacturer cautioned the Association to buy 3 versus 2 and never set them higher than 86 degrees). Ad investigated carpet cleaning companies; feels chemical dry system is good which can be taught to maintenance staff. Bids and info were presented to Fern. Liz will also be contacted to ascertain carpet manufacturer’s cleaning recommendation. Anne wants something green or colorful in front of our Entrance/Exit signs. Shirley spoke to Tom at Winn-Dixie about the shopping carts being brought onto our property. Winn-Dixie is still seeking a viable solution. Ron wanted to know how to keep South door to Garage level Lobby open for easier access with packages, carts, and wheelchairs. Response: It is a Fire Door and must be kept closed at all times. If it is not tight, the wind will blow it open. Rafael gave presentation on info he obtained on different types of Fire Extinguishers. The best is dry powder ABC. The info was presented to the Board. Debi volunteered to pick up fire extinguisher for anyone unable to do so for themselves. Debi stated hallway renovations and holiday decoration look great. She is happy. Tom stated he was concerned about live Christmas trees in units. Note: Owners should follow safety rules with live trees. Tom also suggested Cobblewash for the pavers. Chris and Jim stated items they planned had been discussed already. Every thing fine.

Silver Linings

Hallway Renovation The renovation/decoration of our hallways is progressing. We have a couple of items to complete – we’re awaiting receipt of the molding strips for the East and West kitchen doors (a few floors already had these). Also, tiles holding the Exit and Smoke alarm need a special installation. All floors except two have been accessorized. Thank you, Liz, for your patience and endurance during the past 4 months. I bet you didn’t have any idea of what would lie ahead in dealing with 203 unit owners – each with our own personal likes and dislikes. My hat’s off to you. “You’re a better man than me, Charlie Brown.”

By the way I constantly receive plaudits on the excellence of “The Regency Times” – our newsletter. When we began the Newsletter, we had no idea the enjoyment you would receive from reading it. Although the Presidents Report is mentioned for some of its humor, it is clear to me that the success of The Regency Times is due your beautiful publisher, editor, “do-it-all” Liz Urbano. For, I know if the Times did not possess an inviting design layout, with lovely colors you would not even read my report. Thanks Liz.

As I begin my 19^th year here at The Regency Tower, I recall the many discordant Board meetings, the neighbor against neighbor disagreements, the lock-out of administration, Board coups d’etat, Board and Committee member resignations, verbal and physical abuse etc. etc. During the past six years this has disappeared and our Board has encouraged neighborliness and harmony by example. To a great degree it has worked. We look back with gratitude to the many, many people who have supported us, especially the “Silent Majority” who call and write with personal support. We say thank you from the bottom of our heart. We look forward to a bright future. Realtors have named us the “Best Managed Building on the Galt Mile”. We pledge to “keep the faith” and continue working towards keeping the Regency Tower the best managed, the most secure and most improved on the Galt Mile.

I Wish a Blessed and Happy Holiday to everyone.

“Shoot for the moon… even if you miss, you’ll be among the stars”
- Les Brown

I always shoot for the moon.

Aloha – I love you
Dott

COMMITTEE REPORTS

DECEMBER 2006

Architectural Review & Construction Committee
Eric Peter Berkowitz

Construction Committee Chair Eric Peter Berkowitz Gives Report
ERIC - HURRICANE
REPAIRS NEAR END
I am delighted to report that the damage we sustained during Hurricane Wilma has finally been addressed. As anticipated in last month’s report, the interior and perimeter fences have been repaired and upgraded. Repairs to our roof damage have also been completed. Our owners’ singular achievement of making our building a model of windstorm damage mitigation by installing impact rated windows in every room of every unit was mirrored on our lobby floor by the Association. Every ground floor common area window and door has been upgraded to effectively resist windstorm damage and entitle us to the best insurance rates available to any Galt Mile Association. The rehabilitation of our balcony railings is also nearing completion.

While the repairs to roof damage sustained during Hurricane Wilma have been completed, damages from Hurricane Katrina presented an ongoing dilemma. The two 30” vent turbines that were blown out to sea were no longer being manufactured. That unfortunate incident taught us to remove the vent turbines prior to their being threatened and replace them afterwards. It also prompted consideration for the future of our rooftop venting system.

During Hurricane Katrina, the rooftop vent over the storage area adjacent to the elevator mechanical room was damaged, creating an infiltration into the building. Since the vent was custom created by the developer according to the original building specifications, the damage could not be addressed with a stock “off the shelf” replacement. Fortunately, our talented Maintenance Chief, John Sala, created a protective cover that kept the room dry. When Hurricane Wilma compromised the structure, Sala again patched the 5-foot plywood cover. As expected, the temporary patch was ultimately penetrated, necessitating an effective permanent repair.

Roof Vents
Many Associations that sustained significant roof damage were forced to replace their roof and the rooftop venting elements. The vulnerability of these rooftop structures to windstorm damage is proportional to their exposure. Simply put, the taller these structures are as they rise above roof grade, the more prone they are to being blown off the roof. Therefore, engineers and roofing specialists currently recommend the installation of vents that are close to roof grade, obviating the need for their removal and reinstallation during Hurricane Season.

There is another reason to upgrade the roof vents. Since they are more efficient, they may successfully rid us of some persistent odors that have been the target of intermittent complaints. However, the complete replacement of these venting elements is not an inexpensive proposition.

Vent Turbine
The unanticipated repair expenses posed by storm damage to every Galt Mile Association resident are incremental to mitigation expenses, windstorm insurance increases, and inflationary impacts on basic maintenance. While Regency Tower residents were assessed far less than their neighbors to address these onerous obligations, the net hardship is still horrific. Given the current environment, it was decided to postpone the replacement of our rooftop venting system. Instead, we opted to create an alternative replacement for the unavailable 30” turbines and the large storage room vent.

As reported last month, two 24” vent turbines attached to custom built 1.5 inch adapters were affixed to the two exposed 30” roof vents. This past Friday, a custom-built 5-foot rectangular copper cover commissioned to protect the mechanical room storage area was finally installed on the roof. Its installation marks completion of the storm-related structural roof repairs and should provide effective protection from infiltration. More important, these repairs have made the purchase of a new venting system optional instead of necessary.

The interior and perimeter fence repairs underway during last month’s report have been completed. Each individual repair incorporated additional strengthening that specifically addressed its predecessor’s vulnerability. The pool and seawall fence posts were buttressed with 3” wide steel braces visible only from the beach. The fence separating the pool from the upper patio deck and the North Parking Deck security fence were braced with exterior flashing to preserve the integrity of the concrete walls supporting the posts. As detailed in the November report, post widths were increased while the spaces between posts were decreased, effectively quadrupling stability. Two of the six eviscerated balcony railings require adjustments before being signed off as acceptable.

Installation of impact rated doors at the main entrance completed the mitigation elements required to fully protect the lobby floor from windstorm damage. The electronic components required for our keyless entry system, remote security controls and fire safety system had to be carefully reconnected. Similarly, intercom communications and remote response capabilities had to be restored to every lobby entrance. Following installation, some of these response functions were intermittently unavailable. The project manager from Stanley Door worked with Bass United to discover a software error in the door’s programming. Once reprogrammed, the door operated as expected.

Continental is completing the electrostatic recoating of the balcony railings in stack number ten. In a few days, they will move the swing stage to the eleventh and final stack. Completion of the larger stack 11 wrap around balconies (except for the ground floor) could take almost a month. Work days postponed because of wind or rain will extend the projected completion date. Spot checks (every third or fourth balcony) continue to demonstrate excellent results.

Continental also did a terrific job on the South Deck security gate. Like other fence sections that were largely unaffected by storm damage, the gate was a target for rehabilitation instead of replacement. The gate section suffered severe molting and deterioration of its protective coating. Following repairs to the South Parking Deck security fence, the gate was sanded, electrostatically recoated and reattached with additional bracing.

The Regency Tower computer network recently underwent security upgrades. In addition to installing improved antivirus protection and strengthening network firewalls, cutting edge encryption software will afford us state-of-the-art security for all internet banking transactions. These safety features are incremental to existing network protections uploaded when the computers were installed last year. Productivity software in the Receiving Room security computer was also validated, allowing Carlos to independently issue security notices, memos and schedules without burdening office resources.

Please submit plans for any construction within your unit to the office for review. While you are entitled to mold your home to suit your needs, it is important to do so without improperly accessing limited common area elements or providing insufficient sound insulation. During the past few years, the Board has approved three new sound underlayments that provide excellent noise and impact insulation without creating tripping hazards. Appliances plumbed improperly to drainage lines inadequate for their purpose are responsible for expensive floods and leaks every year. The cost is passed to the unit owner responsible for the damage. Undergoing this mandatory review protects the unit owner from these costs. Submissions are generally approved within 48 hours and when the occasional problem is discovered, it is usually cured by a minor adjustment to the plan... often resulting in a lower cost! If interior construction is performed without approval, it is subject to mandatory removal and reinstallation. To avoid the expense and inconvenience of tearing up a newly installed floor or disconnecting an appliance, simply inform the office of your intentions prior to starting work. It will cost you nothing to protect your neighbors, protect the Association and avoid an expensive headache! Thank you for your kind attention.

Hallways Report
Liz Urbano’s report was read by Iris Anastasi

Liz Urbano - Our Dynamic Designer
Liz Urbano
Dynamic Designer
We are in the final stages of our long project. The accessories for almost all of the floors have been selected and the floor representatives have done a wonderful job of creating an individual look for each floor. There are a few more things that need tweaking and we hope to accomplish all of them this month. I thank you all for your patience and cooperation.

On a personal note, I wish to express my sadness at the loss of a loyal and valued employee, Montcalm Gibbons. This was a tragic and sad circumstance. My heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends; he has my prayers.

Welcome to new members; we will miss Louise
Iris Anastasi
Checks a Landscaper
Landscaping Committee
Iris Anastasi

The Landscaping Committee has met on several occasions during the past weeks. We are considering a landscaper who we are now in the process of working with on the different types of trees, shrubs, plants and flowers to be planted that will work within our budget. He has mentioned to us that once an agreement is reached he would be able to begin in about ten days with completion in approximately two weeks.

Maintenance & Housekeeping Committee
Dee Lanzillo & Ofelia Alleguez

Maintenance: The following items were completed:

Dee - Extremely Busy!
Christmas decorating of our building is complete. Many thanks to John and Marc;

Pressure cleaned North and South parking lots as well as the Garage Receiving area;

Replaced florescent fixture and light in garage area;

Cleaned Package Room behind guard desk in lobby area;

All medical equipment such as wheelchair, walkers and crutches have been cleaned and properly stored for anyone in need of them;

Replaced paper towel dispensers in pool area. We also have mineral spirits in spray bottles for use to remove tar;

Replaced vent on roof for storage area;

Marble thresholds have been ordered for all fire exit doors and will be installed as soon as we receive them;

Disposed of all the old files from 1979 thru 1994 from 19^th floor utility room.

Housekeeping: Hallways from the 20^th floor to the lobby area are in excellent condition. Laundry Room cleaning is much improved. The remodeling to our building is tremendous and quite elegant. It is now up to us to make sure we keep it in this order. As you know the Hallway Renovation is a great expense to us all. Personally, I feel it was well worth it. At least now that the improvements have been done we can all be proud of the outcome. Many thanks to all of our workers that were involved in all that has been accomplished.

Screening Committee Chair Margie Nagle Thanks Committee Members for their Dedication
ONE SCREENING
Screening Committee
Margie Nagle

Margie Nagle reported that there was one screening since the last meeting: Peter Lagadas was screened as the lessee for Unit #403.

New Security Chief Carlos Pereira
Chief Carlos Pereira
ON THE CASE!
Security Report
Security Chief Carlos Pereira

Uff! We made it!! Most of the Security goals were achieved in this past year. Most of all, thanks to the Board of Directors for their extra efforts of digging in the budget to find some needed funds to improve security around the weak points in our building.

These are the most important projects completed this year:

Our 16 camera system was replaced by 26 advanced models with digital eyes.
Increased our outside lighting, with the help from our maintenance crew.
All new metal fences have been installed which are stronger than the previous ones, thanks to Mr. Eric’s supervision. They look very professional and more secure, adding a much needed security reinforcement to our exterior borders.
All new guards are required to have or obtain the “D-License” (Security Guard un-armed license). This was a very good decision because to obtain this license, the guard needs to enroll in a 2 day (24 hours) training program and have their background checked by the State and FBI prior to receiving their license.
All common doors are now equipped with new advanced model speaker phones. These new speakers will enable us to speak and, if needed, open any of the 10 doors from the lobby front desk.

Night Patrol
For 2007, one of our goals will be to bring a professional instructor to teach all security, maintenance and office staff, First Aid, CPR and Emergency procedures. All of us will be certified on that.

Please remember that your cooperation and suggestions to the Board are always welcomed.

As you can see, we are striving, all the time, to achieve our aim of making this building the most secure on the Galt. In the name of the Security staff, we wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a healthier new year. God bless you all.

Safety Tip: When you drive into the building, always use the South side ramp and to exit always use the North side ramp. This will avoid accidents.

Social Committee
Margie Nagle

We went to see a two act show, “Wally’s Café” on Saturday, December 9^th at the theater at City Hall in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Eight persons from the Regency Tower attended.

Thank you for coming.

We Care Committee
Ofelia Alleguez

Ofelia Alleguez reported the following:

We Care Committee Chair Ofelia Alleguez of Regency Tower Angel Squad
Ofelia Alleguez - Regency
Tower ♥ ANGEL SQUAD ♥
November

Joyce Woodward’s (307) – father passed away; note on bulletin board; card sent.

December

Montcalm Gibbons – our employee of many, many years has passed away. Our deepest condolences were sent to his family. Montcalm will be remembered by many of us as a very polite and quiet man, always ready to help us. May he rest in peace.

Harold Allen (902) – passed away at home in Kentucky; note on bulletin board, card sent and trees will be planted in his memory.

Web Site Committee
Eric Peter Berkowitz

Report about Hurricane Damage
Eric Berkowitz
Many Updates
The Regency Tower web site offered Association-relevant updates during November and December. These included Hallways Project progress, the inception of a Saturday car wash organized by budding entrepreneur Carl Richardson, new Social Committee offerings from attendance at a local presentation of “Wally’s Café” to a plea for participants in a Monday Afternoon Bridge game. A pre-Election Day litany of reasons was published supporting why and how Regency Tower voters would be advantaged by “early voting”.

Robert Rozema
In November, the web site received 62,039 hits and 1023 Unique Site Visits (first timers). After hits from sites in the United States and Canada, they heralded primarily from Japan, Malaysia, Portugal, Germany, Austria, Argentina, Italy, Turkey, Seychelles, United Arab Emirates, Norway, Tuvalu, Bulgaria, Brazil, Israel, Netherlands, Thailand, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Montcalm Gibbons
Consistent with the painful losses we sustained during the summer and fall, an article was posted outlining what the loss of GMCA President Robert Rozema means to every Galt Mile resident. It also speaks to the untimely passing of our own Montcalm Gibbons. The tightly clustered losses of people that touched so many of our lives are addressed in the Notices and Reminders page.

The “Around Town” section of the home page is in continuous transition, reflecting events available for the entertainment and/or enlightenment of Regency Tower residents. Currently populating the section are Christmas On Las Olas & “Holiday Happenings”, the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, the Chanukah Fair On Las Olas, the monthly SunTrust Sunday Jazz Brunch, Commissioner Teel’s pre-agenda meetings, the monthly “FIESTA! Fort Lauderdale” and the third annual “Downtown Countdown” to ring in the New Year. Each of these abbreviated blurbs is linked to fuller explanations of the events on the Notices and Reminders page.

As you probably noticed, the Galt Mile City Cruiser Shuttles have been replaced by Sun Trolleys. They connect the Galt Mile with the Coral Ridge Towers Complex, North Beach, the Beach Community Center and the Coral Ridge Mall. The Galt Mile Sun Trolley’s operational data joins similar information for busses run by Broward County Transit and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea’s “Pelican Hopper” on the General Information page under “Inexpensive Bus Service”. The latest route map and shuttle schedule have been posted there as well.

Thank you for your kind attention.

NEW BUSINESS

NOVEMBER 2006

Rafael investigates fire extinguishers
Look for “ABC”
Rafael Rates Fire Extinguishers

December 12, 2006 - The subject of fire extinguishers in each apartment was brought up by Ad Wilson at a recent Round Table meeting. Rafael Alleguez investigated the issue and presented the following information: The best fire extinguishers for our units would be dry powder that are marked “ABC” as they are good for all types of fires. They are relatively inexpensive - $15 to $25 each, and, if possible, it would be good to have two extinguishers in each apartment.

The Board is recommending that all unit owners place at least one fire extinguisher in their apartment.

NOTICES & REMINDERS

DECEMBER 2006

Fire Extinguishers

As noted in the minutes, the Board is requesting all owners to purchase a UL Rated Type ABC extinguisher for your units. The cost is from $15-$25. It fights wood, paper, cloth fires, plus flammable liquid and electrical. Type BC only fight flammable liquid and electrical fires. As a minimum there should be one in your kitchen, Master Bedroom should also be included.

Fire Doors

The Security Department has brought to our attention that certain owners are in violation of the Fire Department Regulations by using Fire Doors for Ingress and Egress. These violations are particularly flagrant on the East end of the building and the North Center door used by units in the 10 and 11 stacks. No one is allowed to open the Fire Exit Doors at any time. Violators will be penalized!

Social Committee

During the past two years of Louise Collins illness, the Social Committee has struggled and conducted primarily Bingo and Coffee Hour. We need someone to throw theme dinners, theatre visits, barbeques, entertainment, etc. If interested, please call Fern McBride at 954-561-2965.

Service Contracts

We again remind you to secure contracts for maintenance and repair of your air conditioners, toilets, sinks, refrigerators, dishwashers, hot water heaters etc. The Maintenance personnel are busy maintaining the common area property. Some of the recommended contractors are:

Service America – 954-979-1100 or 1-800-884-3500,
Total Appliance – 954-454-6801 or 1-800-427-1519,

Broward Factory Service – 1-888-237-6060.
Or you may call any others in the Yellow pages.

Another Legacy Untimely Taken
Montcalm Gibbons
Montcalm Gibbons
December 7, 2006 - As if orchestrated by some cosmic balance, the losses we didn’t suffer from the serial hurricanes expected during the fall and early winter were replaced by a severe human cost. Helen Quinlan, Pablo Verol and Louise Collins were recently joined by Robert Rozema. Although not a Regency Tower resident, he was a friend to every Galt Mile resident. The untimely loss of these special people that touched so many of our lives felt like a series of blows to the spirit of our Regency Tower family. Given the clustering of these losses, many of us have been in a perpetual state of mourning since spring. With the passing of Montcalm Gibbons, it appears that this condition will persist into the Holiday Season.

After coming to Florida from Haiti by way of the Bahamas in 1980, 20-year-old Montcalm landed a job in the Regency Tower. While employed here, Montcalm furthered his education, studying Data Entry, Air Conditioning, Real Estate and Auto Repair. He married Annette in 1986 and fathered 4 girls, each of whom was a source of explosive pride to Montcalm.

7^th Day Adventist Church
A spiritual man, he was first elected in 2001 to serve as First Elder in his Church and subsequently re-elected. Montcalm was a Personnel Minister and the Church Treasurer for 20 years. He also served as Secretary of the Broward County Elders Association.

His tenure here was marked by achievement in the face of adversity. Although he received letters of commendation from the Board of Directors in 1983, 1985 and 1988, Montcalm was repeatedly subjected to baseless allegations of not carrying his weight. Pigeonholed by racial profiling, Montcalm tirelessly performed whatever task was asked of him - without complaint. While participating in a mini-autobiographical interview, Montcalm sketched a revealing description of the thinly veiled racial slurs he tolerated from supposedly enlightened residents. He said, “For some reason, the residents didn’t pronounce the name Montcalm and started to call me ‘Moca.’ However, now nearly everyone calls me Montcalm and that makes me very happy.”

Montcalm with Work Pals
Looking past the abuse he received from certain residents whose self-worth is only realized by standing on someone else’s neck, Montcalm exclaimed glowing satisfaction with his position here and his amicable relationship with the vast majority of residents. “I love to work at The Regency Tower. The residents are very nice to me and I am very, very happy to be working under the current Board of Directors and Maintenance Supervisor, Johnny Sala, who has taught me quite a few mechanical and electrical skills. This helps me at home where I love to do all my own repairs in my house. I love America and was much pleased when I obtained my American citizenship 12 years ago (Sic. in 2002... citizen since 1990). God Bless America and God Bless you all.”

Dott and Dee Recognize Montcalm Gibbons
for 25 years of Dedicated Service in 2005
Upon assuming control of the Maintenance department, John Sala leveled the playing field and clarified expectations for his personnel. Once Montcalm’s abilities and commitment became apparent, he quickly earned the respect of our residents, his supervisor and the Board. In fact, Montcalm was a valued asset to the Maintenance Department, a gentleman and a team player when fulfilling Association responsibilities. His quiet demeanor belied his accomplishments. When Maintenance Chief John Sala went on a prolonged vacation a few years back, Montcalm successfully ran the Maintenance Department until Sala’s return. The fact that few people were even aware of Sala’s absence during that period speaks to Montcalm’s unheralded capabilities. John Sala acknowledged that Montcalm was a fast learner who took pleasure in tackling new challenges. This helped offset his lack of previous training and experience. In 2005, President Dott Nicholson-Brown and Housekeeping Committee Chair Dee Lanzillo presented Montcalm with an award commemorating more than twenty-five years of dedicated service to all of us.

Click for Map to
Bethlehem 7^th Day Adventist Church
Funeral Services for Montcalm will be held on Sunday, December 17^th at 10:00 AM in the Sinai 7^th Day Adventist Church at 201 NW 46^th Avenue in Plantation. Viewing is arranged for Saturday, December 16^th from 7 to 9 PM in the Bethlehem 7^th Day Adventist Church at 406 NW 3^rd Avenue in Pompano Beach. For additional information, call Miriam (954) 829-8849.

Directions to the Sinai 7^th Day Adventist Church are as follows: Take I-95 south to Broward Boulevard west; after crossing 441 (State Road 7), make a right at 46^th Avenue followed by the first left. The Church is on the right.

Click for Map to Sinai 7^th Day Adventist Church
The family would appreciate that donations be made to Montcalm’s wife, Annette. Please send to:

Annette Gibbons 5341
NE 9^th Terrace
Pompano Beach, FL 33064

If you prefer to leave your donation with the office, it will be forwarded to Mrs. Gibbons. Fern McBride and Ofelia Alleguez of the Employee Holiday Fund Committee have indicated that Montcalm’s expected share of the collected proceeds will be donated to Mrs. Gibbons as well.

Robert J. Rozema Galt Mile Leader
Robert John Rozema
December 2, 2006 - The Galt Ocean Mile lost an irreplaceable asset on November 27^th. When President Robert Rozema of the Galt Mile Community Association passed away, not only did the neighborhood residents and merchants lose an irrepressible advocate, they lost a fast friend. Robert John Rozema lived in neighboring Southpoint Condominium, the double tower near the southern end of Galt Ocean Drive. After moving to the Galt Mile from New Jersey in 1983, he focused his efforts on improving his home. His Southpoint friends and neighbors, cognizant of his organizational skills and talent for achieving consensus, elected him to serve on their Board of Directors. He organized the Association office and streamlined their maintenance and security to better address their residents’ needs. Bob whipped Southpoint into a model for the rest of the block.

Galt Mile Officials Celebrate Improvement Project
Having taken notice of Rozema’s achievements as Southpoint’s President, Galt Mile civic leaders recruited him to the Galt Mile Community Association. He joined Earl Lifshey, Rose Guttman and Dick Tymeson in planning the Galt Mile’s impending rehabilitation. Bob brought his fellow Galt Mile Directors to the table with then District 1 City Commissioner John Aurelius and other city officials. Together, they hatched the Galt Mile Improvement Project, arguably the most successful of its kind in Fort Lauderdale history. Enlisting the cooperation of every participating Association, they settled on an assessment amount that would actualize the pioneering project. For the $658 that every Galt Mile resident chipped in, they received a model community. Our high-end lighting, pavered crosswalks, tailored landscaping, pink aggregate sidewalks, street indents and below ground electrical lines were some of the fruits of their labors.

The city was committed to maintaining the block “in Disney-like fashion”. To this day, that contractual agreement forms the legal basis for community’s persistent demands that the City fulfill its obligation. Although many Association officials and other volunteers contributed to the effort, Bob Rozema is widely considered to be the project’s sparkplug. After rising to the organization’s Presidency, Bob relocated Galt Mile headquarters to the Southpoint administrative office.

Mayor Naugle at Wake
As President of the Association, Bob expanded its venue from its previously local impact. Bob engineered relationships that reached into City Hall, Broward County Headquarters, Tallahassee and Washington. He initiated FLPD’s local noise abatement and traffic safety project, new signage and traffic lights, the construction improvements at the Mile’s Corner area, new landscaping and the renourishment of Broward’s critically eroded beaches. Bob waged campaigns against destructive legislation while supporting laws that helped condo owners. Given the political diversity of its members, Bob maintained the Galt Mile Association’s non-partisan political voice. In addition to being a resource for focusing on Galt Mile political objectives, he shaped the Association into a platform for sharing information.

Fern McBride
Attends Service
Hundreds of friends and neighbors attended Bob’s wake at the Kraeer Funeral Home on December 1^st. Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle told mourners how fortunate he was to have shared lunch with Bob at an Advisory Board Meeting two weeks earlier. Various officials paying their last respects were City Manager George Gretsas, Florida State Senator Jeffrey Atwater, City Commissioner Christine Teel, former City Commissioner and Broward Housing Authority Commissioner John Aurelius and Bob Wolfe from the Broward County Property Appraiser’s office. Fiancée Marilyn Peters was joined by Bob’s children (Darlene Joy Scruggs, Robert John Rozema, Jr., John Frank Rozema and stepson, Richard Albanese), Galt Mile officials, Southpoint friends and employees, local merchants and scores of friends and neighbors from every building on the block as well as the Coral Ridge Towers Complex. En route to the service, GMCA Advisory Board member and Regency Tower resident Fern McBride expressed the general sentiment, “He will be sorely missed!” Bob’s GMCA responsibilities will be assumed by Vice President Pio Ieraci.
Those of you who knew Bob - or knew of him - are aware of the copious civic contributions he made on our behalf. As for those of you to whom this is “new information”, well... you just lost a good friend! P.S. - To read more about Bob and his contributions to the Galt Mile Community, Click Here.

EVENTS

DECEMBER 2006

The Regency Tower Social Committee Invites You to
an Evening of Theatre

The Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Performing Arts Center Proudly Presents

A Comedy in Two Acts

Directed by our own Pat DiSebastian

The Social Committee Presents Wally’s Café
Date: Saturday, December 9, 2006
Time: 8:00 PM
Where: Jarvis Hall at Town Hall
4501 Ocean Drive (A1A), LBTS
How Much: $15 Admission
Home of the Wallyburger
Wally’s Café is a gag-filled comedy by the authors of MURDER AT THE HOWARD JOHNSON (Ron Clark & Sam Bobrick). Its about a couple who run a diner 60 miles from Las Vegas. In 1940, their only customer is a footsore Illinois girl hitchhiking to Hollywood and certain stardom but ends up staying as a waitress. Years later she returns in a limousine to bail out her old friends. This play is a classic!

Tickets must be purchased in advance
Make checks payable to "Regency Tower Social Committee"
All checks must be received by Sunday, December 9, 2006.

We can car pool!

For more information, please call Jim or Pat DiSebastian at 954-630-3339.

Margie Nagle, Chairperson & Guru, Social Committee - (954) 563-3034

2006 Employees Holiday Party!

Vince, Chris, Jim, Candace, Carlos, Mark, John, Ernest, Cindy, Edison, Pam, Jerry, Nick, Joz, Carl
Heather and John Stopped Clowning Around Long Enough to Pose for this Shot

Chris, Carl, John and Joz - Security Buddies
December 30, 2006 - The men and women that work for Regency Tower nurture a special dedication to our home. This level of commitment is a two-way event that only flourishes in certain environments. The combination of equitable, merit-based advancement, mutual respect, ongoing peer review, effective technical support and institutional courtesy have helped mold the capable individuals that work here into a team. The personal relationships they've developed with the people that live here - and one another - have helped mature this team into a family.

Staffers Clown Around and Pose for Portrait
Due in large part to the relentless efforts of John Sala and Carlos Pereira, our maintenance and security departments compare favorably to the best in the neighborhood. However, each and every employee has helped to coalesce their respective departments into close-knit and highly versatile units. While John and Carlos provided the leadership necessary for this transformation, their team members have displayed the ability to seamlessly compensate for one another and demonstrate real pride in their effectiveness as a unit.

Employees Share the Magnificent Spread
Those that power our home have a history of responding to emergencies by sacrificing their safety to promote our own. During every hurricane, employees worked with resident-volunteers to perform a wide variety of emergency functions above and beyond any job descriptions. Those of us in residence during these events witnessed their having performed emergency repairs to blown out windows and doors, clearing the decks of dangerous windblown debris and providing assistance to homebound neighbors. Our employees softened life without water, electricity and communications during Hurricane Wilma. As compared to most of our neighbors, we uniquely benefited from the “unusual level of commitment” demonstrated by our employees who worked double and triple shifts to help maintain vital services to those in need. Since they were relieved of their responsibilities once the storm evacuation was ordered, their contributions to our well-being were voluntary – performed primarily in return for little more than our gratitude! This behavior more closely approximates that of a friend than an employee.

Liz and Heather Chow Down
On December 22^nd, we were afforded the opportunity to return the favor. At the annual Employees Holiday Party, we try to show our appreciation for the dozens of courtesies given every day, both small and large, that extend beyond their regular job responsibilities. The party is the culmination of efforts to this end. Fern Mcbride and Ofelia Alleguez co-chair the Employees Holiday Fund Committee, which collects donations from any Regency Tower resident seeking to return something to our employees for improving our lives on a daily basis. The proceeds are distributed at the annual party according to a formula that considers the employee’s length of service. (Funds collected after the party are subject to a secondary distribution held specifically for that purpose.)

Employees Trading Off Party Gifts
In a repeat performance of the wonderful party she threw last year, Margie Nagle organized every aspect of the party, arranging for food, refreshments and entertainment for the guests of honor. Aside from some minor assistance from others, Margie created a bash that fully expressed the collective gratitude of the Association for its valued employees.

The party is historically comprised of three major activities. At the outset, everyone graces the huge buffet to load up on the excellent assortment of prepared victuals. With full plates, the attendees find a seat and settle into some serious eating - blissfully undisturbed by beeping buzzers or ringing telephones. Volunteers such as Marty Rivas and Rafael Alleguez manned critical posts, freeing the staff to enjoy themselves.

Party Planner Margie Nagle Enjoys Spread
Once the invited guests are no longer hungry, phase two of the party cranks up. A table groaning under the weight of dozens of gifts becomes the center of attention. One of the most important responsibilities of the hostess is to devise new and interesting ways of distributing the gifts. (These gifts are incremental to the funds collected from our residents for general distribution.) The table gifts are donated by Board Members and others as additional tokens of their appreciation for the daily efforts of our employee family.

Mark Sneaks up on the Guys
To enhance this top-flight fête, Margie devised a new format for gift distribution that took everyone by surprise, including her! During an occasionally confusing process, dozens of gifts were repeatedly passed around the room. After a time, Margie initiated another game more familiar to the quests.

Fern, Iris, Dee and Bob Watch the Gifts Fly
A lottery determines the order in which participants select a gift based solely on its wrapped appearance. Once selected, the gift is opened. The person that selects the next gift can either keep it or trade it for any other previously opened gift. As the most attractive gifts are slowly revealed and identified, they travel through many sets of hands, setting up a dramatic series of covetous victories and defeats. Participants and onlookers are equally entertained by watching developments unfold. By the end of the game, every participant has a gift and a good time.

Dott Clowns with John, Liz and Joz
The third and final activity is the distribution of collected donations. The donations made by scores of residents often determine the extent to which our employees are able to share the holiday spirit with their families. Fern and Ofelia - as well as the Board of Directors - want to thank every resident who helped to improve our employees’ holiday through their generous contributions.

Smiling Cyndi Digs In
The party clearly demonstrated that our employees don’t just punch the same time clock, but sincerely care about each other. While the events were fun, the success of the annual Holiday Party draws more on the camaraderie between staffers and their sense of being a part of something worthwhile and rewarding. With the input and oversight of Dee Lanzillo and Dott Nicholson-Brown, Carlos and John have done a remarkable job developing their staffs. Margie Nagle’s annual Employee Holiday Party is an excellent stage for seeing the extent to which their personnel have knitted themselves into a family – our family. For a clearer understanding, Click Here to see pictures of the party on our Photo Page (Click on each thumbnail to get a larger view).

To peruse a plethora of party pictures, Click Here to the Regency Tower Photo Gallery.

Employees Enjoy Their Holiday Together

Home Page | Archives

Click to Top of Page