HomeStead Owners Group (HOG)

The Voice of the Village - May 02

Apr 29, 2002

You?’ll find an envelope enclosed in this issue of The HomeSteader. I?’m asking you for a $5 contribution to help defray the out of pocket costs of producing this publication on a regular basis.
The first issue of The HomeSteader hit the streets in May 200I, and nearly every month thereafter. As a professional freelance writer, I?’ve had lots of fun creating it, and many of you have contributed to the content, either through the ?“Meet Your Neighbor?” feature, or through the many ideas you?’ve given me along the way. I?’d like to continue.
Communication among us is very important. New residents are moving in each month. Those of us who have had time to develop friendships and understand that knowing your neighbors is one of the aspects of village life that could not be put in a sales brochure want to bring them a warm welcome and the community spirit that has been grown over many months.
I believe The HomeSteader has played an important part in that effort. To date, I?’ve logged approximately $150 in printing costs, not to mention the value of my time in collecting information, arranging it, printing, and distributing to our residents.
What is most unfortunate is that Homestead Communities has refused to reimburse me for these costs. This is more regrettable in light of Mr. Dargusch?’s repeated compliments on the newsletter and his verbal acceptance of my proposal for funding. In addition to his overtures of last year, The HomeSteader has been used in Homestead Communities?’ marketing of the development by sales staff (some of you may have received it at the clubhouse or in the mail), and a special request by Case Bowen for a reprint of the article about them and their property manager.
It now appears they will be competing with The HomeSteader with their own newsletter, which will be distributed soon and for which they?’ve clearly found funds. The HomeSteader, and now the HOG website, are two communication tools that take time, attention, creativity, and skill to produce and maintain.
I?’m hopeful you?’ll consider contributing so that my work can continue on behalf of us all, and your voice can be heard and unfiltered on topics of importance and timeliness to the village.
If you feel communication through The HomeSteader is as important a service to the community as lawn or pool maintenance is, and that you think this is an appropriate use of our condo dues, then please contact our current association and register your vote.
Please contact me if you have questions. Thank you. John Michael Spinelli, editor, The HomeSteader.