As we come to the end of 2008 and enter the holiday season I hope all of you are in good spirits. Our members have experienced many fun and memorable events throughout the year with their family and friends. The last BLHA event of the year is our "Holiday Party", December 14 in the Chapel.

I would like to extend my thanks to all the community volunteers who contribute their time and guidance to the Board of Directors and our committees. These individuals, along with all of you who participate in these events, help to make Berkeley Lake a great place to call home.

• Membership/Budget: Tracking to planned levels.
• Picnic Pavilion: City Council has approved changes to City ordinances regarding "land locked" lots allowing BLHA to submit concept diagrams and general lot placement plan for P&Z consideration. BLHA Board /Committees have no activities planned for the remainder of 2008.
• Access Gate for Boat Ramp: Board approved project in October.
• Construction remains to be scheduled.
• Flagstone Patio: Over 55 engraved flagstones were placed in the picnic area. New orders are being accepted for next year with pricing to remain at $65.
• Beach Lighting: A three-floodlight fixture was installed in October to illuminate the table and grill area alongside the tent pavilion. Additional fixtures are expected to be installed by spring.

Our BLHA Annual Meeting is scheduled for January 10. We will be offering residents an option to contribute funds for specific activities in support of the lake and its ecology. Look for a written notification this month.

As individuals and a nation, 2009 will bring many challenges for us. With confidence, we will come together to support our families and neighbors, as our community has demonstrated in the past.

• Continue with normal operations for lake and grounds maintenance
• Focus on facilities maintenance (existing structures/tables)
• Picnic Structure – Paint and add solid (pavers) surface
• Picnic Tables – pressure wash and stain

We will continue to survey membership prior to formalizing plans; however some capital expenditures being considered include the following:

• Replace picnic tables/benches
• Lake irrigation systems
• Electrical improvements (lighting/distribution)
• Landscaping improvements
• Beach recreation – bocce ball court / horseshoe pits
• New pavilions (picnic/beach) remain under discussion

We look forward to seeing you at the annual meeting, as we present our plans and seek your input, guidance and approval of the 2009 budget.

REMEMBER... some BLHA Board positions will be open at the end of this calendar year. If interested in serving on the Board or associated committees (Events, Capital Improvement, Lake Management, Communications) please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and indicate your area of interest.

Please review the articles and updates listed throughout this Reflections issue. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact a Board Member or me. As always, I look forward to seeing you all at our Holiday event.