Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1372792
At the end of last year's June Board Message we were hoping that "we have turned the corner and all our lives are returning to a somewhat normal existence." Let's hope that statement is now accurate. June 14 is Flag Day. This day commemorates the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. Although proclaimed in 1916, it was not until 1949 that Congress voted for Flag Day to be a permanent holiday. There are three things you should never do to the flag: The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water or merchandise. The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free. The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used or stored so that it might be easily torn, soiled or damaged in any way. We live in a community where many residents proudly display the flag. Seeing all the red, white and blue makes one feel good we live here. Have you ever thought about what happens to the flag when it becomes worn out or damaged? Just as there's etiquette for displaying Old Glory, there's also etiquette for disposing of flags in a dignified manner. This is called "retiring the flag." The Flag Code does not authorize any particular organization with the duty of retiring unfit flags. Any one person can do it, but it should be a solemn, dignified event. In Four Seasons over the years, we have had individuals who volunteer to collect flags that need to be replaced. These flags are then "retired." They are members of the VFW and deserve our thanks. We welcomed two new Board members after the April elections, Roxy Snider and Fred Kydd. We also thank Scott Barr for being a candidate. It is so important to have residents who are willing to volunteer their time and energy. The end result is a better community. Previous Board messages have described matters facing Four Seasons. Now is the time to address the "elephant in the room." This is an expression of U.S. origin, dating to the 1950s, and possibly much earlier. It refers to an issue that people avoid discussing. One such issue relates to the assessments/dues we pay. Balancing the annual budget has become more challenging, with revenue unchanged and costs increasing. To address this concern the Board will develop a three to five year forecast of expenses, working with our committees. Our objective is to examine all expenditures, with no exceptions, and determine if and/or when an increase in assessments/dues is appropriate. We need to plan now, to avoid a future surprise. We live in a special place and want to keep it special. Message from the Board of Directors 2 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | JUNE 2021 | Sincerely, and on behalf of your Board of Directors, Greg Rockvam, Cliff Post, Tony Criscenti, Jerry Hawkins, Roxy Snider, and Fred Kydd Jim Crase President