The Winchester Village Homeowners Association Board of Directors would like to wish each and every owner and resident the Best of the Season and Good Health. We truly hope you will be safe and sound in your various family travels.

Most of you will notice that our yard maintenance folks have started to trim the trees bordering our streets. This will be an on-going procedure until they are all done. We have also had a tree felling contractor remove SOME of the Village owned trees that were found to be in need of removal. Some of the trees were in very dangerous condition, as are still others. Those of you that would like your privately owned trees removed, the firm is able to remove and clean the area for a very reasonable fee. Those of you that are not amenable to having green belt area trees removed, so be it. But you will be required to sign a legal document removing the WVHOA of all responsibility should any Village owned trees fall as a result of storm conditions

Bob Southland, our Septic Coordinator, sent a special letter to your BOD pertaining to the Village Septic system. He advises that especially during an electrical outage where the electric septic pumps are out of commission, all of us should take extra steps to CONSERVE water by cutting back on water usage. This particularly means flushing of toilets, use of washing machines, dishwashers and other household conveniences that utilize water. There are critical areas/lots that should be watched closely when power is down. They are Lots 24,25,26, 27, 39,40,41,42, 51,52, 53, 54,67,68,69,70,75,76, 77 and 78. As the rainy season is upon us, we should all he conservative, as drain fields become saturated.  Our systems have been maintained, and are up to date. However, we all know that the recent rains can easily upset the "best laid plans!. As a reminder, please refer to your emergency listing and contact HEMLEY'S Septic Service (not Bob Southland), advising them of the lot you reside upon and what is happening.  Do NOT CALL the Board.

This issue is the last for calendar year 2000.. How time does fly! I have enjoyed passing on information and sincerely hope that my wisecracking and sometimes sarcastic commentary did not step on too many toes. Sometimes things have to be said...and because my big mouth did get overloaded, we DID note a marked increase in participation of Village common concerns. Personally I feel the Board of Director leadership itself expended in its concerns and purpose. All of us have much to be thankful for due to the innovation and devotion of Frank Jaloma. His presence is truly missed - and we as a BOD will continue to build upon that which has already been completed Our Winchester Village community is a concept that is thought of favorably and known throughout the South Kitsap area. Working together rather than knocking heads is always better for us as a community. The BOD thanks and appreciates those of you that have already participated (i.e. cleaning our streets and yard maintenance). Your BOD guarantees to continue to accept and relish your constructive criticism, your valid and viable concerns as well as acknowledge your suggestions. We want and need your opinions... and will accept your help!

While I anticipate continuing in the capacity of Village Voice editor, "the good lord willing and the river don't rise "I will take a rest The next issue, unless there is a valid need, will be in March or April.  As our good friend Bob Ehrman can attest, this gratis volunteer project does take more than a bit of one's time and energies. Emergency information will, of course, be disseminated.

Barbara Buckley, 2360 SE Hastings Lane, again asks for our help. She is collecting money saving coupons from our newspapers in support of her grandson's medical group. Barbara will gladly pickup and clip the coupons. The valid dates must present a validation date ending March 31,2001. Barbara can be reached by calling 895-2064.

Dorothy Crieger offers the opportunity for any Villager to join her in organizing an ongoing Bible Study and devotion group. Please call Dorothy at 876-4090 if interested. Please leave Dorothy a message if needed, and she will get back to you.

Let us hear from you!

As a further reminder, it was recently brought to your BOD's attention that a streetlight was not operating on the North section of Hastings Lane. On each light stanchion, one can find the NUMBER of that particular light. Please, take time to record the number, call ANY Board member, give him/her the number, and Puget Sound Energy will be contacted.  Please know, that PSE will normally respond within three (3) working days. PSE advised us that streetlights are in the non emergency category; but they will respond

During the past several board meetings, there have been discussions about pet caused nuisances, as well as pet care and responsible ownership. As a result, this will be one of the priority subjects the board will focus upon during the early part of the current New Year.
The board will request comments and suggestions from all homeowners regarding the development of a policy consistent with the new Covenants, Conventions and Restrictions.  From the feedback we receive, a Village-wide policy will be developed regarding the responsible, yet loving care of our valuable pets. At the same time the BOD will develop an action policy which will be taken to abate nuisances caused by pets, canine and feline, not under control of their owners contrary to the newly revised CC&R's.
One neighbor found a valuable alert for emergency personnel regarding pets. A small decal prominently affixed to both entrances of your home provides an assist in their rescue efforts should the need arise. This decal is available at South Kitsap Mall Hallmark at a cost of about $1.75. Owners might also check with their preferred vet (your editor's vet provided them free of charge).

For the time being, the property management proposal is held in abeyance. We too have a multitude of questions regarding the present proposal. So before we all get excited one way or the other, believe it. . We are taking steps! Member of the BOD will re-interview the Bradley Scott folks. Hopefully an interview will be conducted soon. All property owners will be kept completely informed of any negotiations. We will assure that every homeowner knows what is proposed, and will have a vote one what action is to be taken, if any.

The BOD pleased to welcome a new Village property owner. Darlene Schultheis who recently purchased and occupies the former residence of Ray and Karen Hermeyer.  Darlene rapidly entered into the "Holiday Spirit" by beautifully decorating her new home.

A hearty Thank You and Well Done is directed to Villager's, owners and residents alike, who made the effort and took the time to decorate their homes. Anyone entering our community was made very much aware of the hard work, enthusiasm and pride in Winchester Village. Again, Thank you and your BOD hopes that good health and prosperity will be with each of you in the coming year.