Can it possibly be time for Montclair Day, already? One of the special things that Tina and I have loved about Montclair is the MPOA Events. There is no association that spends the time and effort to gather our community family together, in so many special ways. The Cech family believes that these events make Montclair a place to live, not just a residence. If you have not signed up for a fun couple hours of volunteer time with your friends and neighbors, STOP READING NOW and CLICK HERE to sign up online; it's easy and you will enjoy the day even more. Speaking of volunteers, I would like to recognize two very special volunteers. After many years of tireless effort on the Events Committee, Nick and Karen Credgington are stepping down. On behalf of the MPOA, I would like for them to know how very much have appreciated all of their contributions to Montclair and what a high standard they have set for future volunteers.

Last month I discussed the initial planning efforts to improve the appearance of Waterway Drive. I would like to acknowledge the positive impact that Community Landscaping has made in just a few short weeks. Your feedback and support for addressing the neglected areas all along Waterway Drive has been very positive. I hope more Members will come forward to help with the planning and execution of this long-range project. The Board has also accepted a proposal from our PWC Supervisor, Maureen Caddigan, to plant additional trees on MPOA common property. The trees will act as a natural sound barrier for the houses along Hopkins Drive, which were impacted the most by the Route 234 expansion. Although MPOA was brought into the discussion late in the game, we worked quickly to assess the proposal so the Board could take action at our May meeting. Planting may be delayed till the second increments of trees are funded.

Another big project this year will be the dredging of Lake Montclair. I have requested that the staff and Lake Management Committee plan several town meetings and Montclairion articles. When combined with the ongoing lake bottom survey, this project represents one of the greatest single expenditures of the MPOA, ever. I believe the Membership needs to better understand the necessity, the scope and the expenses associated with this project. Where is the money going and why? Your first opportunity to learn more will be June 2^nd during Montclair Day.

At this time, I would like to encourage the membership to sign up and take advantage of ArmstrongConnect. This web-based, interactive program provides greater access to information about your specific property, your account and our Association. It also provides greater community connectivity with important information about real time events that happen in Montclair. This state-of-the-art service was one of the reasons Armstrong Management Service, Inc. was selected as our onsite management company. It is disappointing to report that less that 15 percent of our Membership have signed-up and are reaping the benefits of this FREE service. Please call the MPOA office and request assistance from Courtney Larson in signing up; it takes less than five minutes.

I will close with two final points. First, school will soon be out so PLEASE SLOW DOWN on Waterway Drive. Second, I am pleased to welcome our newest Board Member, Alan Bridgewater, who will be representing the 2^nd Precinct until the spring elections in 2009. We appreciate his and the other candidates willingness to step forward in a leadership role. Tina and I will see you all at the summer events. Please take the time to introduce yourself and say hello. Also, keep in your prayers those who go into harms way, for our safety, our liberty and our freedom.

God Bless,
James V. Cech, President