Come out of the dark!

To all residents,
Don't be a winter mushroom.
There is a way to stay informed on Condo Activities.

We welcome you to visit our 900 Marshy Cove Blog.
http://www.900marshycove.blogspot.com/

Comments? Question? Contributions? Please send them to
marshycove900blog@comcast.net

"Grass Roots" at its best!

Opinions expressed are unoffiical and not neccessarily those of the Condo Association

Bulletin Board? Who? What? Where? WHY?

The bulletin board: no love lost.
Where: Most of us walk by the bulletin board in the garage and pay it glancing notice. Over the past few days, it has been a source of controversy and mystery.

What: During the past year, one of the residents volunteered to keep it up to date with formal condo association notices and community notices of interest. Faithfully, they kept it up to date. Given how hard it is to find volunteers, we need to respect their efforts. That is why I am at a loss to understand why the condo board or one of its members has acted to "take-over" this job.

When: Suddenly one day during the past week, the bulletin board case was opened and all contents removed. The Condo Board minutes were posted in its place. (I don't know what else is posted.) The volunteer who had been servicing the bulletin board was never informed that they were "relieved". It is much like going to work and finding your replacement sitting at your desk. "Oh, didn't they tell you that you were fired? SURPRISE!"

Why: What confuses me most is how and why this was done. No explanation was given. Was it a result of a board decision? or Someone acting alone? In either case, the act was at minimum rude. We are all residents which in our world makes us all equal.

How about a little courtesy?

My fear is that this will become our standard operating behavior.

If anyone reading this can explain this action, please send me an email to

marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Given the open nature of the Internet, it is my policy not to publish names; so, your comments will be published anonymously unless you indicate otherwise.

Merry Christmas, Your blogger friend and just another resident.

A Christmas message from Beazer

Happy Holidays from Beazer Homes at

Deep Harbour

Please help if you can and donate a new, unwrapped child’s toy, which goes to

benefit the TOYS FOR TOTS organization.

Beazer Homes at Deep Harbour

will be collecting toys at our sales center.

December 19th and 20th from 12:00 to 3:00pm

Join us for some holiday cheer and refreshments when you stop by to donate a toy.

send your news to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Happy Holidays

Photos from the party last Friday.
Many thanks to the organizers.

Happy Hanukkah!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Party Tonight in the Lobby

Don't miss the conversation.
Get acquainted with the issues facing the Condo and the community.
Maybe just make some new friends.

The blog site in looking for contributors.
If you want to post a story of interest, let me know.
I will be looking for you tonight.

Send your emails to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

web site link: http://http://www.900marshycove.blogspot.com/

Basic Guidelines:

• We do not publish names of individuals unless they agree to it.
• Only articles of interest to the residents of 900 Marshy Cove will be considered.
• We attempt to tell both sides of the story if appropriate.
• If you don't like what you read, please send your comments.
• If you really don't like what you see here, start your own blog. It's free!

It's PARTY Time!

Hold the date! Black tie affair, NOT.

Holiday Party

Place: 900 Marshy Cove Lobby

Date: Saturday, December 12.Time: 3- 5 PM

Meet your neighbors.

Discuss what's happening.

See you there.

High Tides

HIGHHIGH

NORMAL

Due to the full moon, rain, and the direction of the wind, some higher than typical tides have been experienced on Cambridge Creek.

Parking Notice

There is a Gray Buick parked in space 27.
Since the space is assigned to another resident, a towing notice has been placed on the automobile.

To the Buick owner, (and the rest of us.)
Now that all condo units have been sold, we need to respect other residents.
The party is over, you will need to park in that impossible space that was assigned to you.
If you have a second automobile, it's time to start parking outside.
or Perhaps, you can negotiate a deal with a part time resident.

Board Meeting, Saturday, November 7, 10 AM

A Board Meeting will be held on Saturday Morning at 10:00 AM.

Location:

411 Muse Street
Cambridge, MD 21613

See you there?
Bring your issues.

Send your comments to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

FIRE ALARM TESTING, Wednesday, October 7

As part of an annual inspection, the Fire Alarm System will be tested.

On Wednesday, October 7, at approximately 5 PM, you should hear an audible alarm.
There will be no need to evacuate; however, listen carefully so that you will recognize the signal in an emergency.

Remember, in a real fire you will almost always hear the evacuation signal well before you see or smell smoke. In some cases there may be dangerous gases present. Rule 1: Get out of the building. This is also a good time to familiarize yourself with the exit paths from your unit. Mentally rehearse your egress or take a walk to your nearest exit.
My personal comment:
Hopefully, the emergency generator and emergency lighting system will also be part of this inspection.


send your comments and news to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Letter to the Editor

Concerns from a resident of 900 Marshy Cove.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
QUESTIONS THAT NEEDS TO ANSWERED ARE:

1. CAN BEAZER JUSTIFY THE MARKET’S NEED FOR MORE CONDOMINIUMS?


a. IF THE SLOW CONDO SALES AND SAGGING PRICES OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS ARE ANY INDICATION, THEN THE ANSWER IS NO.

b. I KNOW THE CITY HAS QUESTIONED THIS NEED. HOWEVER, ON THE OTHER HAND WHEN YOU LOOK AT THE TAX REVENUES BEING GENERATED FROM THE CONDOS ALONG THE CAMBRIDGE CREEK ..... YOU'LL SEE WHY THE CITY OFFICIALS ARE IN SUPPORT OF MORE, NOT LESS CONDOS.



c. WILL BEAZER IMPROVE THE ROAD DESIGN WITH BETTER LAYOUTS?

1) THERE HAS BEEN NO COMMUNICATIONS FROM ANYONE ABOUT ANY
ROAD DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS. THE CONFIGURATION STINKS!

2) I HAVE NOT READ THE BECHT ENGINEERING REPORT THAT WE SPENT SO
MUCH MONEY ON SO LONG AGO REGARDING ANY OF THE IMPROVEMENTS
OR SUBSTANDARD DESIGN DEFICIENCIES OF OUR ROAD NETWORK.

3) ALTHOUGH THE CAMBRIDGE FIRE DEPARTMENT APPROVED THE EXISTING ROAD LAYOUT, IT IS SUB-STANDARD AT EVERY TURN. IF FIRE TRUCKS CAN
MOVE AROUND THIS SITE (THEIR CRITERIA TO GOOD DESIGN I GUESS),
THEN WHY DO MOVING & DELIVERY VANS HAVE SO MUCH TROUBLE MANEUVERING WHEN MAKING TURNS AND TURNING AROUND?

4) THE TURNING RADIUS OF THE CURBS IS TOO SMALL.

5) THE SIGNAGE FOR SAFELY DIRECTING TRAFFIC FLOW AROUND THE SITE, i.e.,"ONE-WAY" TRAFFIC SIGNS ARE MISSING AND SUBSTANDARD.

6) THE ROAD LAYOUTS ARE DANGEROUS AND SUBSTANDARD.
THESE SUBSTANDARD ROADS FOR A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR
DEVELOPMENT COMPLEX AFFECTS THE DEVELOPERS MARKETING
ABILITY, THE SAFETY, AND OUR DAILY SAFE USE OF THEM.......

7) VEHICULAR ACCESS TO GARAGE PARKING IS POOR AND UNSAFE.

8) ACCESS AND EGRESS CONFIGURATIONS TO THE DEEP HARBOUR SITE AT TRENTON AND CEDAR STREETS IS POOR AND NEEDS TO BE REDESIGNED.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Send your letters(emails) to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

New Plan for Deep Harbour Development

This was sent to me by one of the residents. It concurs with other accounts that I have heard.
Difficult financing terms and a limited number of buyers has driven Beazer to re-evaluate their original plan.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Subject: BEAZER IS COMING TO TOWN

ON OCT 24 BEAZER REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE COMING TO TOWN TO MAKE A PRESENTATION TO THE DEEP HARBOUR HOAs (BOARD MEMBERS ONLY) ABOUT FUTURE SITE PLANNING & BUILDING DEVELOPMENT HERE.
(conjecture from various sources)

FUTURE DEEP HARBOUR DEVELOPMENT:

1. TOWNHOUSES WILL BE SMALLER WITH FEWER BEDROOMS (lower sell price)

2. THE 4-STORY (48 UNIT) CONDO BUILDINGS AT SITES B,C,D, & F WILL BE REPLACED REPLACED BY CLUSTER DESIGN-UNITS.

3. THEIR OBVIOUS GOALS ARE TO HAVE A BETTER PRODUCT FOR QUICKER SALES AND TO LOWER THEIR COSTS.

Board Meeting, This weekend! Saturday, 10 AM!

The 900 Marshy Cove Condo Board Meeting

is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, at 10:00 AM.

Location:411 Muse Street, Cambridge, MD 21613

Bring your list of issues to the meeting.

Send your scuttlebutt to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

FYI, Sailboat opportunity

From Dr. Kent N.Kimmel knkimmel@comcast.net

Dear ESSA members,I am a 1/3 partner in a 2001 Hunter 380 sloop. One of our partners is having health issues and has decided to sell his portion of the partnership. The other partners are Kent Kimmel & Ruth Carroll and Richard & Joan Pusey.
If we cannot find a suitable partner, we are considering selling.
If any ESSA member might be interested in a 1/3 partnership or purchase,
we would be happy to provide additional information regarding "Trilogy",
slipped at Generation III in Cambridge.
Trilogy is docked immediately across from 900 Marshy Cove.

Please contact either knkimmel@comcast.net (410-749-3617)
or rapusey@salisbury.edu (410-742-7125).
Thank you.
Kent N. Kimmel
1121 Riden Court
Salisbury, MD 21804

LIGHTS OUT! revisited

It appears that the power outage revealed more problems than originally reported. Apparently, the emergency back-up lights and in some hallways and the exit stairways did not work. There is an assumption that these systems are checked on a regular basis for operation. Are they? If not why not?

That beeping noise that you heard all weekend in the foyer is the alarm that indicates trouble with the back-up generator's battery. It is unclear what the battery failure means; but, it is evident that the building is not properly prepared for handling routine upsets.

We as residents need to start asking questions about the maintenance and readiness of the building's systems. From there, we need to mandate that Comanco has the proper procedures in place to keep all systems in proper working order. Our safety depends on it.

Lights OUT!

A thunderstorm managed to upset power to 900 Marshy Cove this week. "Where's my flashlight?" could be heard from several darkened condos. Residents discovered their coffee tables in the dark with their shins. Ouch! Candlelight proved to be the more romantic option.

The good news is that we learned a few things about the building.

Common observations:

• "Whadda ya know, the emergency lights really work"


• "No elevator?" Yes, no power, no elevator.


• "I didn't know that we had stairways."


• The other key is for opening the fire door on the stairway and side entrances.


• The garage door opens automatically on a power failure. Yes, your car will not be locked in the garage. OK!


• No Internet, no cable, you may be forced to talk to other people or play cards by candlelight. aaarrgh!

Sorry, I missed all of the fun.

After a few hours, the lights returned, cable TV, Internet, Microwave, and Air Conditioning. At least the power company doesn't charge us for the downtime; but, why does Comcast?

Something to do with the Kiddies!

The Skipjack Nathan sails from Cambridge every weekend giving passengers a nostalgic glimpse of a waterman's life on the Chesapeake Bay. This is a great opportunity for the youngsters in your family to touch history.

go to their website at http://www.skipjack-nathan.org/

Saturday, August 1, 1-3 PM
Saturday, August 8, 1-3 PM
Saturday, August 22, 1-3 PM
Sunday, August 23, 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM
Saturday, August 29, 1-3 PM

Saturday, September 5, 1-3 PM
Saturday, September 19, 1-3 PM
Sunday, September 20, 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM
Saturday, September 26, 3-5 PM

Saturdays, 2-Hour Sails, Adults: $25, Ages 6 – 12: $10

Sundays, 1-Hour Sails, Adults: $15, Ages 6 – 12: $7

Under 6: Free

For Reservations: 410-228-7141
info@skipjack-nathan.org

Heard on the elevator.

The following is subject to fact checking. Some of it may be closer to rumor.

We understand that:

• Beazer will be listing more boat slips for sale.
• Beazer will be selling the remaining condo models at 900 Marshy Cove.
• Beazer may also change the building plan to include different residential structures rather than more condo units.

Stay tuned, what ever happens, will take a long time.

August 22, 2009: Hold the date!

At this time, the next 900 Marshy Cove Condo Board Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, at 10:00 AM.
This may change so use pencil in your date book.

Location:
411 Muse Street
Cambridge, MD 21613

See you by the pool.

Send your schuttlebutt to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Gate Crashers!

We're back from vacation. The following is old news.


From Comanco Management:

Some time on the night of June 25 vandals rammed the Trenton St. gate. According to the Cambridge Police, two witnesses saw a red Chevy S10 pickup hit the gate at approximately 30 - 40 miles per hour.

Cambridge Police requests that anyone who may see a vehicle that fits the description above to call the police dept immediately. Try to get a plate number if possible. The police have stated that they are on the lookout for the vehicle and will stop anyone in an S10 pickup. Comanco has already mailed notices to everyone in Deep Harbor.


Here's what an S10 looks like. This is 1998 model. Chevy hasn't manufactured S10's for several years.

Please send your condo news to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

River Marsh Auction: Beazer sells out

My news is a little late; however, just in case you haven't heard.

Beazer successfully auctioned all 28 condo units that they were offering.
The sale prices ranged from $250,000 to $400,000.
This stands as good news to all of us at Deep Harbour.

See the auctioneers site for more information.
http://www.maxspann.com/


Send you news items to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

July 11, 2009; hold the date

JULY 11, 2009 - TASTE OF CAMBRIDGE

Second Saturday! Celebrate the blue crab and the living heritage of our watermen and seafood industry during downtown's biggest event of the year! This street festival includes a Crab Cook-Off competition, professional crab-picking contest, live music and entertainment, tons of fun contests for kids. $20 tickets to the spectacular Crab Cook-Off will entitle holders to tasting of the best crab dishes from the top chefs of Dorchester County. Streets are closed to traffic. See photos from the 2008 Taste of Cambridge! Get more details about the 2009 Taste of Cambridge.

This is a fun event.

Condo Board Meeting, June 13, 2009

A Condo Board Meeting was held today at 10:00 AM at 411 Muse St.

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend.
Condo minutes are unavailable until they are approved.
That takes a month.

If a reader could send a summary of events, it would be appreciated.
I will gladly post you notes.

The editor.

Cambridge Culture: Working hard: An American Dream

Many thanks to the Blog follower who sent this.

There are two videos that feature Cambridge's contemporary life.
Both will run consecutively.

http://www.usanetwork.com/highway50/videos/index.html

You will see Cambridge in a new way!

Readership: The results are in

How many people follow the Marshy Cove Blog?
Not as many as YouTube or Facebook; but loyal.
We thanks you for that.

Data collection started in May so previous users are counted as new in May.

Blog Readers for May and June 2009

Page Loads 66
Unique Visitors 43
First Time Visitors 24
Returning Visitors 19


Average per week
Page Loads 17
Unique Visitors 11
First Time Visitors 6
Returning Visitors 5


In short, it appears that their are approximately 43 unique visitors.
If you use two different computers, you will be counted twice.

The editor

Pet Policy Passes (May 9, 2009)

The Pet Policy was passed by the board. on May 9, 2009.
When you look at the policy, all appears reasonable.
The goal was to create a management policy that would protect persons and property.
The policy appears to have achieved that objective. Some Highlights:

• Each Pet is to be registered. A maximum of two pets per unit.
• Animals are to be spayed or neutered.
• Proof of inoculation is required.
• The maximum weight of an animal has been set at 55 pounds.
• Pets are to be on the leash in all common areas.
• Owners are responsible for clean-ups.
• Dog(cat) tags that identify the owner are required. (The pets wear the tags.)

And the part I like,

• No orangutans, chimpanzees, elephants, or snakes!

Many thanks to the Pet Committee for enduring the process of policy creation.

You should have or will be receiving more information by mail.

Annual Meeting & Pet Policy discussion

This is a BIG ONE!

Annual Meeting of the 900 Marshy Cove Condo Association.
If you cannot attend be sure to assign your proxy to another unit owner.
Nominations for the Board of Directors will be taken from the floor at the meeting.

Expect some good discussion on the Pet Policy. The responsible committee has given this great thought.

Why am I telling you this? It's all in in the mailer that Comanco sent out.

See you at the meeting,
Saturday, May 9, 10:00 AM.
411 Muse Street
Cambridge, MD 21613

~~~~~~
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Let us know what's happening. send your news to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Dorchester in May

Quite a busy month. It's time to get out and enjoy the best weather of the year.

DORCHESTER COUNTY EVENTS – May 2009
May 2 “Beacons of Light” Lighthouse Tour 5-hours - $80 pp/not including lunch. Contact Sawyer Cruises 410-397-3743
May 2 Bird Walk with Shirley Bailey at Blackwater @ 8:00 AM
May 2 Skipjack Nathan of Dorchester Public Sail. 2-Hour sail on traditional
Chesapeake 1:00 PM Skipjack @ Long Wharf Park (410-228-7141)
May 2 Character Counts Mid-Shore Six Pillars Century.
Call 410-819-0386 for information. 7:00 AM
May 7 Mike Elzey & Lisa Rowe perform in Michener’s Lounge
at Hyatt Regency every 8:00 PM Thursday night May through September.
May 8 Groove City Jazz & Blues Weekend Kick Off @ Jimmie & Sooks,
421 Race Street. 8:00 PM Bluesman Jimmy Cole and Band
perform kick-off Concert.
May 9 Groove City Jazz & Blues Festival @ corner of Race and Cedar Streets. Event is free w/$10 donations requested from adults at gate. Line up: Deanna Bogart (Winner of 20 Area Music Awards), Junkyard Saints (DC Area Artist of the Year Winner), Saxophonist Carl Grubbs (2009 Baker Arts Award Winner)
May 9 Second Saturday. Explore Downtown galleries, shops, fine & casual dining along 5:00 PM blocks near Jazz & Blues Festival.
May 9 Skipjack Nathan of Dorchester Public Sail. 2-Hour sail on traditional Chesapeake 1:00 PM Skipjack @ Long Wharf Park (410-228-7141)
May 16 5th Annual Heart of Chesapeake Country Heritage Day. Features walking tours, food, 10 AM-4 PM kids’ activities, guided cycling tours around the county. Call 410-228-1000 to reserve cycling tour spot.
May 16 Horn Point Antique Fly-In at Horn Point Aerodrome.9 AM-4 PM
May 16 Heritage Day Free Skipjack Sails @ Long Wharf Park at Noon, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 PM
May 17 Bird Walk w/Harry Armstead at Blackwater @ 8:00 AM
May 21 15th Annual Senior Celebration at Governor’s Hall at Sailwinds Park. FREE9 AM-3 PM
May 23 Beckwith Strawberry Festival (7:00 AM) & Spocott Windmill Day (10:00 AM) May 23 Nathan of Dorchester Sail – 2 hour sail @ 1:00 PM (410-228-7141)
May 24 Nathan of Dorchester Sail – 1 hour sail @ 11:00 AM & 12:30 PM (410-228-7141)
May 30 Nathan of Dorchester Sail – 2 hour sail @ 1:00 PM (410-228-7141)


Many thanks to one of our readers for the events listing.

Letters to the Editor: Pets and Pet Policy

Pets and the Proposed Pet Policy:

“I noticed the council is considering assessing residents a fee of $75 for pets in this "pet friendly" building. What benefits do the residents obtain from this fee or is it only a way to obtain more funding? If it is the latter, and I hope not, what are the condo fees for?”

Stay tuned. Details will follow. The proposed policy has been in committee for several months. The board will be voting and informing all residents of the proposed policy. Explanation of the fees and their use will be detailed in the policy. We will attempt to get some preliminary information to you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
More on pets: What’s that smell on the 3rd floor?

One resident writes “There has been an odor emanating from in front our condo door. I suspect a pet has been allowed to run the hallway and it decided to relieve itself in front of the door. We have taken care of the odor, now it someone's turn to collar their pet, if this is the case.”

Yuck! Yuck! Yuck! I agree. I've heard from some residents that the first floor has had a problem like this in the past.

Is there anyone else that would like to comment on these issues?
We are ready and willing to post your opinion, observations, and comments.
marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Letters to the Editor: Opinions are Welcome

Letters to the Editor: Many thanks to our readers for sharing their opinions.
It’s all about appearances
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This one’s for the board. There is a growing negative consensus on the lobby carpets.

“I must confess, when I first saw the new carpets in the lobby, I made a comment to my wife that they didn't fit. The ones at the front and back doors don't bother me much, but those in front of the elevators seriously detract from the decor and ambiance of the lobby. Hopefully, it is only a band-aid and not a permanent detraction."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
No Butts, please: Smokers, you attention to this will be appreciated.

"Regarding the addition of "cigarette/ash cans" near the front entrance. Bravo. However, a lot of cigarette butts are still collecting near the park bench. Does anyone police this area or are we to allow the cigarette butts continue to detract from the building? First impressions are usually lasting."

Second Saturday- Let's Party!

• Editor's Choice: Always good music, always good food, always good people watching. Miss Maryland contestants, I rest my case!



• Everyone's invited as the City of Cambridge kicks off a yearlong 325th anniversary celebration on Second Saturday, April 11.



• From 1–4 p.m., head to Governor's Hall at Sailwinds Park for a family-friendly celebration with music, civic ceremonies, birthday cake, student essay and poster contest winner announcements, and kids' activities.



• You can also lend a hand on the community art project.



• And don't miss the unveiling of the small-scale model of a new work of public art, created by local metal sculptor Marty Hughes and Cambridge International.



• FREE! Also, there will be historic walking tours at 11 am and 3pm, leaving from Long Wharf.



• Starting at 4 p.m., the festivities move downtown for a Second Saturday Block Party that features street vendors, musical entertainment, late shopping hours, art gallery openings, a special appearance by contestants in the Miss Maryland International pageant, and more. FREE!



• The day (and evening) includes much more—new shows in Cambridge's five art galleries, late shopping hours, and great food in our restaurants. (Did you know that Chesapeake Foodie just declared Cambridge a "go-to destination" for dining, pointing out new Italian restaurant Bella Luna, French restaurant Bistro Poplar, and the restaurants at the nearby Hyatt?)

Tell us what you enjoyed most on Second Saturday.

marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Just a reminder- No Board Meeting this Month

Everyone,

There will be no Condo Association Board meeting in April.

You will be required to contain your excitement until May.

Please write. Let us know what you are thinking.

What do you want to know about?

marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Enjoy the Holiday,

from the entire staff of MCC Bulletin Board.

Cambridge - What's happening?

Here's something that one of our readers sent to us. A link to the MAIN STREET NEWS.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Greetings!
Read this April 7 edition of Main Street News (our biggest issue ever!) for the latest on:

This Saturday's Big Cambridge Birthday Bash:

• Come downtown this Second Saturday to celebrate the city's 325th birthday during afternoon festivities at Governor's Hall at Sailwinds Park and an evening block party with music, vendors, late shopping hours, and more!

Welcome to Bonnie and Bruce Reed:

• Stop in at 533 Poplar Street next time you're downtown and welcome this new two-shops-in-one project. She's got the Fibre Café; he's got Crabcatchers Scavenger Shop!

Arts Spring to Life:

• Opening receptions for new exhibits this month at Gallery 447, the Maris Elaine Gallery, and the Dorchester Center for the Arts. Second Saturday festivities at the Main Street Gallery and Joie de Vivre Gallery. The latest news on plans for a major mural project. Live music at Scoop Station, Jimmie & Sook's, and the Christ Church Concert Series.

Multi-Cultural Festival:

• Head out to the the 600 block of Pine Street on April 25 to join in a day-long celebration of the heritage and diversity of our community.

And Much More:

• The latest on construction work under way at the fire-damaged building on Race Street, a benefit event for youth sports at Cutting Edge Salon, a new spring menu at Bistro Poplar--plus the scoop on why NBC News researchers are visiting Cambridge this week!
  

As always, please feel free to forward this to friends and co-workers interested in downtown Cambridge. Anyone interested in being added to the list of recipients of this monthly newsletter send an e-mail to office@cambridgemainstreet.com with the subject line: "subscribe to e-newsletter." Anyone who'd prefer to be removed from the list use the subject line "remove from e-newsletter."--

Jim Duffy Cambridge Main Street office@cambridgemainstreet.com

410.228.0020 (o)443.477.0843 (c)

Discover Historic Downtown Cambridge at www.cambridgemainstreet.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Have any more notices to share? Please send them to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

New Board Member Needed!

The Board is seeking nominations for individuals who wish to serve.
You should have received a letter from Comanco to this effect in the past week.
Nominations are due by April 13 and can be faxed to 410-221-9977.

Nominations will also be accepted from the floor at the Annual Meeting on May 9, 2009.
Time and location to be announced.

comments? ideas? Please send them to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Fire Safety - What are we looking at?

Neighbors,

Here are some photos to help you distinguish the fire system components in our building.

The smoke alarm system: There are at least four in each unit. When one detects smoke, all will sound. The button is for testing. These do not call for a general building evacuation alarm.
The smoke alarm has a battery for back-up. Batteries should be changed once per year. Change all of them at the same time. Mark the date of replacement on each with a Sharpie pen.

The classic sprinkler head: These work on heat. They are a simple mechanical device. When the metal element melts, the water sprays. When the water sprays, a general a evacuation alarm will sound. They are not connected to the smoke alarms.

The strobe and sounder will indicate a general evacuation alarm. If this goes off, you will hear it.

There is no way to silence it from your condo. The strobe will flash along with every other strobe in the building. Leave the building. This is the real thing. If you don't smell smoke, leave anyway. Modern fire systems rarely falsely alarm. The fire company is on its way, when this trips.

The Fire Alarm pull box will sound a general evacuation and call the Fire Department. If you know a fire has begun, don't wait for the sprinkler head to do its job. Get help. Pull the box. These are located next to the stairway exits. Unlike the old pull boxes, there is no glass to break. Look around the building, Do you know where the closest one is? Where are they in the garage?

Fire extinguishers are located in the hallway. Look for the one nearest your condo. If you need it, use it. It is usually better to pull the alarm box first then grab the extinguisher. You will also find several of them in the garage. Get familiar with their locations.

Elevators are not an option during an evacuation alarm. The elevators go straight to the lobby and lock-down. Read the sign near the elevator.

A Fire Extinguisher in you condo could save the day especially in a kitchen fire. Mount one close-by and where you see it everyday. Here is one mounted in the pantry closet, four steps away from the stove. You can buy these at Home Depot, Lowes, or any hardware store. Read the labels. Ask for help. An "A,B,C" Tri-class should be appropriate for most areas. Extinguishers with a "10- B C" rating is recommended for kitchens. (Don't get one too heavy too lift.)

"A" is for paper, wood, & trash. "B" is for liquid fires like grease. "C" is for electrical fire like a toaster fire.

see http://www.kiddeus.com/utcfs/Templates/Pages/Template-66/0,8070,pageId%3D4559%26siteId%3D384,00.html for more information.

Please note that these comments are based my understanding of the building's fire system which may not be exact and also based on my understanding of common fire safety practice. When in doubt consult an authority on fire safety or the local Fire Marshall.

By George

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Our local Authority is:

Cambridge, MD, FIRE & RESCUE COMPANY,

Jeffery O. Hurley, Sr., Chief (410) 228-1670; fax: (410) 228-4554e-mail: jhurley56@comcast.net

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Have an issue? Have an idea? Want to post a social message? Lost dog?

send it here, marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Carpets in Lobby

I received a few comments regarding the aesthetics of the carpets near the elevators. Functional? yes. ........Ugly? yes. ....... Basically, the carpets look too industrial and detract from the decor of the lobby.

Please, let me know how you feel. The next board meeting will be a few weeks. This matter deserves some attention.

Send you comments to marshycove900blog@comcast.net
Please note that we will not identify anyone that writes to this site by name.

Book Sharing

Care to share books with other residents?

There has been a request to furnish a book shelf in the lobby to permit easy sharing of your "previously enjoyed" books. Perhaps, the residents organization can consider this as an agenda item.

If anyone is interested in helping or participating in the proposed "lobby library", send an email to marshycove900blog@comcast.net. I''ll get you in touch with the interested party.

Smoke Detectors

Just a reminder:

Daylight savings time should remind us to replace the batteries in our smoke detectors. There are about 4 smoke detectors in each condo. They require standard 9 volt batteries. Use a ladder that will permit you to safely reach the detector.

How it works
Smoke detectors detectors provide the first line of defense in the detection of a smoldering fire. Smoke can kill the occupants well before a hot fire starts. The smoke detectors in our condos are wired together so any detection of smoke will cause all detectors to sound an alarm.

The smoke detectors will not sound a general building evacuation alarm. So "burning the toast" won't call the fire department. If a serious fire were to start, you should go to a "pull box" to alert all of the building occupants to evacuate.

The sprinkler heads in your condo will not spray water until 165 degrees has been reached. When a sprinkler goes off, the water flow is detected and a general evacuation alarm will sound. Contrary to what you see in the movies, only the sprinkler head that is exposed to the heat will spray water. Hopefully, it will arrest the fire in the early stages.

In all cases, if an evacuation alarm sounds, leave the building immediately! In many large building fires, you will not smell smoke. Today's systems rarely deliver false alarms. They are inspected and tested on a regular basis to ensure reliability.

Use the nearest stairway to exit the building. By fire code, elevators are programmed to return to the lobby in the event of a fire.

Other considerations:

• Know where the fire"pull-boxes" are located.
• Look around building for fire extinguishers. They are located near many of the exit points.
• Do you have fire extinguishers in your condo? Does everyone know where they are and how to use them? A simple kitchen fire can be stopped in seconds when you are prepared.
• Pick a rally point well away from the building for your family to meet in case of an evacuation.

More information will follow in future articles.

We love ideas: please send them to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Condo Association Board Meeting

The Condo Board Meeting is scheduled for

Saturday, March 14, 10:00AM - 12:00AM.

New meeting place: 411 Muse St. in Cambridge, Chad Malkus' office.

411 Muse St. is on the corner of Muse and Academy Sts.

It is just over the Maryland Ave. Bridge.

The agenda is normally posted in the elevator.

Hopefully, it will be posted here in advance of the meeting.

marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Any news? Send it here.

Snow Clearing

Observations and comments by a resident:

There is a need to review the snow removal procedures for Deep Harbour.
Is there a committee that addresses this issue?

Given the snow storm had been forecast for a week, preparation should have been easy.
The storm was over by 10:00 AM and dumped 8 to 10 inches.
At 1:30, the plows had not yet arrived. This meant that the local traffic was packing the snow cover to ice making it harder to remove and more hazardous.

To be practical, clearing all of the roadways and driveways could wait until the storm was over.
However, It would make good sense to clear the main access road through the property for emergency vehicles even before the storm had ended.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT NEEDS TO BE BETTER PREPARED.

A resident.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Looking foward to receive more emails from you for publishing.

Wanna go sailing?

To all Swabbies and swabbie-wannabees,

If you would like to go sailing, get in touch with the ESSA or the CSA.

If you have a sailboat, the ESSA conducts handicapped races weekly on Wednesday evenings on the Choptank. The boats sail from Deep Harbour Condo Marina and the Cambridge Municipal Marina.

If you don't a have a boat or experience, these are the people who will get you started as a crew member.

http://www.essasailing.com/
EASTERN SHORE SAILING ASSOCIATION
PO BOX 374
SALISBURY, MD 21803

Commodore Eugene Williams eewilliams@salisbury.edu

March General Meeting
Date: 2009.03.21 1300 hrs
Location: La Tolteca of Salisbury - Upstairs Room
Topic: TBD Just mark your calendar for this date to come and enjoy some great Mexican food off their menu. Speaker and topic TBA.

(Other meetings have been held at 900 Marshy Cove.)

~~~/)~~~~/)~~~~~~~~~~

~~ ~~~/)~ ~~~

~~~ ~~~ ~~
The Choptank Sailing Association sails weekly on Tuesday evenings (5:15 PM) from the Cambridge Munuicipal Marina.

The Choptank Sailing Association also races and always needs crew members.

A little more laid-back, the CSA uses an adjusted handicap system.

They welcome experienced sailors and neophytes for crew.

http://www.choptanksa.info/

email contacts: CSA Crew Coordinators: "Andy" abcounts@hotmail.com or

"John" jlindinger@goeaston.net

See you at the dock.

Ideas for publishing? send them to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

How do I leave comment?

Comments can be sent to the blog editor in any one of three ways.

1. Click on the comment link at the bottom of the "post". Select "name/URL". Enter your name and comment.
2. Click on the comment link at the bottom of the "post". Select "anonymous". Enter your comment.
3. Send an email to marshycove900blog@comcast.net.

All comments will be approved by the blog editor before posting.

Please write. We need good ideas.

Board Meeting Highlights

This is my simplified and very unofficial summary of the Saturday Morning meeting.
All opinions are not necessarily those of the board, its individual members or anybody else for that matter.
Meeting minutes are available through the Board's secretary.
Comments: send to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

The new meeting place was satisfactory for the size of the group attending. Many thanks to the Chad Malkus for making it available.

Some of the issues discussed:
Old business:

• Beazer has paid past condo fees to Comanco.
• The board will invest $25,000 of reserve capital in a CD. The bank will be selected shortly based on interest rate, early withdrawal terms, and other financial concerns.
• a "Transition Study" to review the building for deficiencies revealed few flaws. One concern was the loss of stone on the exterior. Freezing of water behind the mortar can dislodge the stones. Annual maintenance may be the only remedy. The open design permits water entry in the mortar cracks between the stones. To Beazer's credit, it was stated that many of the mistakes made in the original building design were not repeated at 900 Marshy Cove.
• Proposed Pet policy: The Pet Policy committee produced a 6 page draft composed of three parts: Pet Policy Provisions, Enforcement, and Registration. The board will review its content and provide comments. One of the issues will be the fees associated with pet registrations and fines. A fee of $75 per pet appears to be the median among Condo organizations. Adoption of the plan will follow condo association protocol which includes disclosure to condo owners. (details to follow in a future article.)
• Gate vandalism: The gate has been repaired and is operational. Security measures have been taken to detect and deter future incidents.
• Thermostats: Energy Star rated thermostats will be placed in selected common areas. These thermostats include daily set-back to reduce heating and cooling when spaces are unoccupied mainly at night. Two electrical contractor bids are under consideration for the work.
• Energy audit: still looking for a firm that will conduct an energy survey. Delmarva power among others do not provide this service. Do you know someone that can provide this service? please forward the information here.

New business:

• A site walk was conducted to identify possible rodent entry points. Door sweeps and other sealing measures will be proposed.
• Recycling: provision for recycling was discussed.
• Bicycle storage: All agreed that exterior storage of bicycles was not desirable. Storing bicycles in the garage requires discussions with the local Fire Marshal also known as the "Authority Having Jurisdiction" or AHJ. The garage is a sensitive area given the potential hazard due to presence of gasoline.
• Master Board: Swimming Pool hours: A request to extend hours of the pool to 7 days is under consideration. The cost impact was estimated at $5000. (to be determined.)
• Master Board financials: A request that the condo board receive Master Board financials.
• Access to 900 Marshy Cove: A request to limit access of the public for viewing Beazer's sample units. Residents would prefer to have the front doors locked. A "buzzer" entry system or limited escort practice verses the current "open" practice will be discussed with Beazer. (tbd)

Please send your comments to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

I am working to improve the subscription and comment tools on the site. stay tuned.

Air Filters for Heating and Cooling Ducts

by George,

Have you changed your air filter in the past year? or ever?
This is one of those items that many of us just plain forget or don't know about.
Filters should be changed once every six months or more.

First, where is it?
The Dorchester model has its filter in the living room on the wall shared with the master bedroom. It is located below the thermostat. Yes, it's that big vent. The vent is the return air vent into which all of the room air recirculates. If it is dirty, very little air will flow.

Changing or checking the filter:
Turn off your heater or air conditioner to stop the fan and air flow before opening. There are two latches that secure the louvered vent. You may need to use a small screw driver to lever them open. Check the filter for dirt. It's probably more disgusting than you expected.
Please note, do not run your system without a filter. The filter prevents dust build-up on your coils which heat and cool your condo. They are not easily cleaned.

OK, Here's the catch. The size of the filter is not an off-the-shelf size: 16 x 24 inches. I went to two Lowes and two Home Depots. Neither had the size. The nearest standard size is 16 x 25. Let Uncle George save you some time. It won't fit! Luckily, I found a 16 x 24 at ACE hardware in Cambridge. I guess that someone else asked that they special order the size.

I paid $17.00 for the filter because it is a 3M Ultra Allergen filter. Nice for your health, but, not required to protect your equipment. I also found a few places on the web that sell them in six packs, but at the same price: no bargains.

I recommend going to the ACE hardware store. If we all buy them there, ACE will keep them in stock. They are located a block away from the WAWA.
ACE Hardware
802A Woods Road
Cambridge, MD 21613
(410) 228-9391

Also, it's a good idea to buy two, change one in the spring and one in the fall, when you change your clocks.

Have any other handyman tips? We anxiously await your comments.
Send to: marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Bulletin Board in Garage

Things are beginning to shape-up here at 900 Marshy Cove.

Thanks to some involved residents, the bulletin board in the garage now displays current information for condo residents as well as what's happening in Cambridge.

Got something that we should know about? Send it to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

We'll see that it is placed on the bulletin board.

Board Meeting, February 14, 10:00AM -12:00 PM

REMINDER:
The next board meeting will be on February 14, 2009, at 10:00 AM until Noon.
New meeting place: 411 Muse St. in Cambridge. Chad Malkus' office.

411 Muse St. is on the corner of Muse and Academy Sts.
It is just over the Maryland Ave. Bridge.

The agenda is normally posted in the elevator.
Hopefully, it will be posted here in advance of the meeting.

marshycove900blog@comcast.net
Any news? Send it here.

Building Security

Last week some door-to-door sales people were working their way through the building. When approached they were asked to leave. Their intentions appeared to honest; however, it raises the issue of building access.

Our building is a private building, no one except for owners, tenants, and guests have any reason to wander in the common areas. Since the building is open to the public for real estate sales, the open door may invite some less than innocent browsing.


Some personal safety tips.

1. If you don't know that person on the other side of the peep hole, don't feel obliged to open your door.
2. Always use your deadbolt lock. The knob lock can be jimmied.


3. Install a door latch to prevent someone entering if you need to open the door to receive papers or talk. The latch will also stop entry by someone with a master key while you're inside your condo.


4. Have you cell phone nearby. Use it to confirm the identity of a vendor by calling the business that they represent. Have the phone number of a neighbor and the Cambridge Police in you cell phone. Cambridge Police: (410) 228-3333.


5. If you see someone in the building, politely inform them that our building is private property and solicitation is not permitted.
   
   
   

Brass door latch.
ideas, news, issues? send them to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Pool Club House- Off Season Utilization

Master Board Meeting News.

In winter, the club house is used for storage of pool-side furniture and equipment. Given that we need common areas available for meetings, opening this area for off-season use would provide a remedy.

Shirley Moore is leading a committee to explore the options. In particular making the life guard room available. She will need volunteer committee members to research alternative storage locations, costs, and other possibilities.

Please contact Shirley Moore if you are available, or email

marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Bring your imagination.

Bicycle Rack - a suitable location?

Your asssitance is needed to decide on a viable location for a bicycle rack.
According to the current garage rules, it cannot be located in the garage.

Do you have a suggestion for a exterior location?
Please send your suggestion to

marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Shirley Moore, or contact a board member directly.

Whatz Up?

Trenton Street Gate Damage:
Please keep you eyes open. Report any suspicious activity.
The Trenton St. gate has been damaged twice by an unknown vehicle.
It is believed that an SUV has bulldozed the gate open.
The result: bending the gate and damaging the mechanism.
The first repair cost $1300.

Bulletin Board:
Be aware of the bulletin board located in the garage.
Messages on condo events and community events will be posted.

Stay tuned: Hold the dates.
Future Condo Association Board Meetings are now scheduled for
Saturday, February 14, 2009, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Saturday, March 14, 2009, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
A new location for the meeting will be announced so check back later.
There will be an attempt to schedule future meetings on the second Saturday(or Friday) of each month. Be sure to check as the dates approach.

Have a message?

building issues? Lost dog? Going sailing, need a crew?
Send an email to marshycove900blog@comcast.net

Condo Association Meeting:

Condo Association Meeting:
Saturday, January 10, 2009
12:00 Noon
At the State Farm Office,
208 Cedar Street
Cambridge, MD

900 Marshy Cove

To: All Owners at 900 Marshy Cove
From: George Breig, resident at 900MC.

Welcome to our (unofficial) blog site.

The intent of this blog site is communication. Since many of the owners are part time residents, keeping up to date with the workings of the Condo Association and other activities has been difficult. I really don't know how well this will work, but, better to try. Perhaps, a formal and official web site might be next.

Here's the way it will work.
Messages of common interest can be sent to email address:
MarshyCove900blog@comcast.net
I will copy and paste relevant messages for all to see.

Also, you may add comments to any posted message

Pass the word. George