SHUTTERS
Well, we made it past Ike (or I guess I should say Ike made it past us!) Texas wasn’t too happy
about it but considering it didn’t come in as a Category 4 storm as anticipated, even they can be
grateful. Because of the threat of storms, a number of PGA residents installed their hurricane
shutters. Some of those owners have now received a notice of violation and a few of them are
now subject to fines of $100.00 per day.
Here is the rule regarding shutters: All shutters require prior approval of the POA Architectural
Review Committee (“ARC”). If you have accordion shutters, clear panels or factory finished metal
panels that match the surface to which they are attached, you can leave the shutters up through
the storm season (June 1 – November 30). These are the ONLY type of shutters that are
permitted to remain installed/closed through the season. All other types, including but not limited
to: Fabric Shield, unfinished metal panels, plywood, or anything else may only be installed at the
issuance of a hurricane WARNING and must be removed no later than seven days after the storm
passes or the warning is cancelled. Please note, “Warning”, not “Watch”
Each time we send violation letters we inevitably get a call from a resident “up north” who says,
“well, I was going home and I didn’t know if I would be able to get anyone to install my panels (or
plywood) for me so I put them up in August before I left.” NO – SORRY! You purchased in PGA
National because of the Rules (in part at least) that help keep the community looking nice. If you
are a part time resident or will be away during storm season, it is your responsibility to find
someone who will secure your property in your absence. Boarded up houses are not only
unsightly, but they can actually invite break-ins because they announce that no one is in residence.
Once the break-in occurs, if you have panels or plywood over your windows, the “bad guys” can
take their time, turn on the lights and stay awhile – after all, no one can see in!
BAR CODES AND GATES
It has come to our attention that some residents have gotten rid of vehicles and did not notify the
POA. The reason the Board selected bar codes (instead of “clickers” or a garage door opener
style gate device) is because they can be deactivated. When you sell a car, please remember to
call the POA and let us know which vehicle you no longer own. If you stop by for a new bar code
and simply tell us you bought a new car but you don’t have us delete the old information, that bar
code (on the old car) will still work, jeopardizing the gate access control system.
We have also had a few incidents where owners have arrived home in someone else’s car and
they don’t know their 5-digit code so they are asked to produce a photo I.D. While this may be an
inconvenience, please remember the guard is doing their job as directed by the Board. Are all the
“glitches” worked out? Of course not, but considering the system has only been active for less
than a year, things are running pretty smooth. To continue to improve service, please be sure to
let the POA know if you encounter any problems. Standing in the street comparing frustrating
stories with your neighbor because you assume someone else let the POA know does not allow us
to address the problem. Everyone assumes someone else told the POA (and usually they have
not!) so please take a moment to tell us (or email me at manager@pga-poa.com).
ART FESTIVAL
Don’t forget the deadline to submit your application to the 3rd Annual Craft Fair and Art Festival is
October 15th! Applications are available at the POA office or at pga-poa.com or by calling
627-2800. The event is Saturday, December 13th at Masters Park. To date, we have received
applications from some very talented artists and crafters so even if you are a big ole chicken and
won’t participate with the beautiful things you make (that’s a challenge!) then just make a note to
come by Masters Park on December 13th from 10a.m. – 4;p.m. to take a look. Who knows, you
may find that perfect one-of-a-kind gift for yourself or someone else!
A CLOSING THOUGHT:
Make the most of your life before most of it is gone.
OR: Smile and say hi to a passing stranger ….it is fun to watch their confusion over a simple
kindness – but how sad that the kindness is so unexpected.