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Nevada Know How---Archives (Page Seven)

Nevada Know How
Archives Page Seven

Sun City Anthem Board Candidate
Nelson Orth
Attends Anthem Community Council Meetings
Describes Sessions
as
"Who's On First?"
(Part One of Two)


Nelson Orth
Ballot Position # 2

Since I wrote my five part articles several months ago on Anthem 
Community Council, much has occurred since that time.

Being a candidate for the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors I pledged to examine this organization as part of the promises I have made to residents, and whether or not I am elected, I pledge to continue that search.

Why?

Because I, like all of you, am part of a community that depends on fiscal responsibility of its Board members to maintain the senior lifestyle promised to us.

With that promise in mind, I wanted to inform our residents of the results of  meetings I attended on January 22, 2020, the first meeting of Anthem Community Council's Landscaping Committee; one attended on January 27, 2020 with Brian Podmenik, the City of Henderson Senior Real Property Agent; a third meeting on January 30th with Sun City Anthem Management, and a fourth on March 10, 2020, a second meeting with representatives of the City of Henderson.  

And in my estimation, could best be summarized by these words taken from the old Abbott & Costello sketch....

...leaving with more questions than answers to Anthem Community Council's effect on our community.

Image result for who's on first?

Why would I make that statement?

Here's what took place !

Let's start with the January 20th & January 27th meetings.

First, I was the only non-committee individual in attendance...

...which tells you how little is known of this organization

It was so concerning, that to explain it properly, requires a two part article to do do.

Here is Part One !

At this first January 20th session, I discovered two new significant items:

1. The Anthem Community Council Manager, Rechelle Bogle, is also employed by First Service Residential, the management company previously contracted with Sun City Anthem prior to the association's move to self-management.
Image result for first service financial logo
At the meeting, she kept saying, "we own", "Anthem Community Council owns".

I did not understand this since I was under the impression, since 2011, that based on the Henderson Master Plan, the City of Henderson  had assigned 97.23 acres to Anthem Community Council for maintenance and landscaping.

By comparison, Sun City Anthem had been assigned 205.84 acres.

2Rochelle Bogle kept referring to their drone program...

...and using these drones to map their property. 

The primary purpose, as I understood it, was to map the water and electrical outlets on the Anthem Council property.

As a result of that January 22nd meeting, I met on January 27th with Brian Podmenik who is the City of Henderson Senior Real Estate Agent.

My first question to Brian Podmenik was:

What property does the City of Henderson own in Anthem? 

His answer was "NONE". 

I was shocked. 

For nine years I believed that all of the HOAs in Anthem were assigned a certain amount of acreage to maintain. 

Brian also told me that Gretchen Poindexter, the Real Property Manager who works for Brian Podmenik , was in negotiations with all HOAs in Anthem and Anthem Community Council to identify and modify, as necessary, the exact acreage of every organization within the Anthem Community

On January 30th I met with Sun City Anthem Management to inform them of my findings. 

As it turns out, I did not tell them much they did not already know.

 Gretchen Poindexter had been in contact with SCA, and was trying to have SCA become responsible for additional property, including curbs and streets

If this becomes true, this will then affect SCA's maintenance and insurance liability.

In retrospect, this revelation that Anthem Community Council owns their own property; and in my strong opinion, represents a "game changer" for not merely our community, but all all HOAs in Anthem. 

If Anthem Council owns that property, then it stands to reason...

...they are responsible for it. 

In Part Two, I will explain what subsequently took place at meetings of February 20, 2020 and March 10, 2020.

____________________
Sun City Anthem Board Candidate
Nelson Orth
Attends Anthem Community Council Meetings
Describes Sessions
as
"Who's On First?"
(Part Two of Two)




Nelson Orth
Ballot Position #2

Let me begin this Part Two by saying that after carefully researching all documents available, in my opinion, Sun City Anthem has no obligation to financially support Anthem Community Council... 

...and there is no documentation to support such a claim.


Then on February 20th, I attended the quarterly Anthem Community Council meeting. 

During that session, Rechelle Bogle (Anthem Community Council Manager) kept referring to "the Gretchen drone project".

During the public comment period I asked Rechelle Bogle if 
"the Gretchen"  she spoke of was Gretchen Poindexter (the Real Property Agent) who works for Brian Podmenik (City of Henderson Senior Real Property Agent).

She said "yes". 

Then I asked about the drone project.

Gretchen Poindexter said that the project was behind schedule, and gave the impression that this was a joint project.

This lead to my attending a meeting with both Brian Podmenik and Gretchen Poindexter on March 10, 2020.


On three different occasions, using different words to ask the same question, I asked Brian Podmenik what SCA should do to resolve this apparent conflict between Sun City Anthem and Anthem Community Council.

And...on all three occasions, Brian Podmenik's  answer was the same:

Sun City Anthem should hire either a title broker or a title research lawyer

Following these meetings to pursue the City of Henderson advice, I contacted my personal attorney, and was given a referral of an individual who specializes in title research, which I subsequently forwarded to Sun City Management.

With regard to the Anthem Community Council drone project, Gretchen Poindexster contended she knew nothing about that project....

...despite the statement made by Rechelle Bogle at the February 20th meeting, and after researching the Anthem Community Council minutes or their 2020 budget, NOTHING is mentioned as to any drone project.


This revelation now demands many answers from the Anthem Council. 

At that meeting I also obtained the City of Henderson February, 2020 map titled the Anthem Loop Sidewalks. 

I am not exactly certain of the ramifications shown on this map, but as soon as Anthem Center opens, I will provide this map to SCA management.


So, what is the next step?

With Sun Anthem Anthem in lock down, I don't believe anything can be done until the new board is elected and seated. 

This board should (dare I say must) first place under contract a title broker 

or a law firm that specializes in title research. SCA must know exactly 
what land we own and are responsible for. While this contracting process 
is ongoing, the following steps are recommended.

1. Immediately recall the two SCA representatives to ACC, Art Schuetz 
and Larry Orlov

Both have abandoned their fiduciary responsibilities  to the homeowners of SCA. The next meeting of ACC is on May 15. 

This recall must be done before then, and new representatives appointed.


2Have the new board president send a letter demanding that all 
documentation requested by any homeowner in ACC be honored, and provided within 10 days of the request

My first request would be for Anthem Council to provide the last five years of their yearly budget audit by an independent auditor. 

I have a great suspicion that these reports do not exist. 

Keep in mind that during the years from 2010 to 2020, you and I as members of the Sun City Anthem community , paid Anthem Community Council approximately $6,000,000

There has never been any accountability of where those funds were spent. 

If Anthem Community Council refuses to agree with these provisions, then suspend, and place into an escrow account, all payments to the Council until they agree to the provisions contained in the board president's letter.


3Prepare a briefing on the background, history, and current status of 
Anthem Council, and then offer this brief to the other five HOAs that comprise their membership.

I believe that once the other five HOAs understand that they have 

the opportunity to save money, Anthem Council will be under extreme pressure to provide the answers to every question asked, and for the first time in their history be held accountable for their actions.

This is the conservative approach. 

The more drastic approach is for the new board to immediately withdraw from its membership.

I can find no document that prohibits this approach. 

When I provided the information from 2010 to 2020 to the board, their response was that we must protect the association, and we do not want to get into a legal battle. 

My response is that the board should (dare I say must) first protect the best 

interests of the homeowners, not the association. 

Who is Anthem Community Council going to sue? 

Anthem Council answers to no one - not the City of Henderson nor the Nevada Real Estate Division.

They have set  themselves above everyone, and believe that their funding from the six HOAs is a right, and never has to be held accountable. 

Then the Council has the problem of finding a lawyer. 

Both Sun City Anthem and Anthem Council are represented by the same attorney,  Adam Clarkson

Does anyone believe Mr. Clarkson is going to sue his own client?


The bottom line is that the homeowners of our community have the opportunity to save a significant amount of money, hundreds of thousands of dollars/year for the foreseeable future. 

Hopefully the homeowners will make the right decisions in this coming election.


For what it is worth, I prefer the conservative approach. AT THIS TIME.

  1. If some of you read the Berman blog, you will notice an article that condemns Nelson Orth.

    With that in mind, let me also remind our readers that Berman's record of condemning any person he disagrees with, is well known to the Sun City Anthem community.

    To call a person "friend" and then "cut his throat" is typical of a person who uses and abuses people for personal gain, then discards them as if they were garbage.

    For those of us who have resided in the community for years, Berman relentlessly "beat up" current Board Secretary, Rana  Goodman, for years before she in 2019 was the #1 voter's choice for the current Board of Directors, going so far as to commence with a petition to having her removed from the Henderson Senior Citizen's Advisory Commission which on his blog, told his readers that a number of residents in SCA were "outraged" at the thought of her REAPPOINTMENT...

    ...another LIE when the Freedom of Information Act discovered that only 8 individuals signed the petition...all his friends, and in one case, a wife who denied she signed it.

    In reality, Rana Goodman has proven to be the one Board member who has become the voice of reason. 

    Her tireless work in Nevada's guardianship laws allowed seniors, the right to fight unscrupulous "vultures" from stealing their funds and controlling their lives.

    At about the same time, Berman's wife, Rosalyn, the person he mentions in the same election that Orth was defeated, made sure that Goodman was DENIED a position on the community Lifestyle Committee through her influence with the then Board.

    What Mr. Berman failed to mention was that HIS WIFE''s incompetence resulted in a Liberty Center being accepted "as is", causing both IMMENSE FINANCIAL LOSS to the community, and...

    ...she was SUBSEQUENTLY  replaced as the association  President shortly thereafter.

    Why do I bring up Rana Goodman in the same breath as Nelson Orth?

    Just as Goodman was BATTERED for years by an individual who has deceived the community for years, he is now attempting to destroy the candidacy of another individual who for years, has taken the time and effort to make Sun City Anthem a better place.

    What person in the entire community has attended more Anthem Community Council meetings then Nelson Orth?

    What person can best EXAMINE an organization than one who WATCHES IT LIKE A HAWK, discovers numerous discrepancies, and makes every attempt to get a "better deal" for a community who will send it over $633,000 in 2020?

    For one to question the credibility of a retired Naval Officer having spent 4 tours of duty flying aircraft over enemy lines and then working for 20 years at the distinguished Johns Hopkins University in management positions...

    ....when in his own closet, carries the stigma of admitted FRAUD, FORGERY, and loss of a law license, can only be described in one way...

    Look who's calling the kettle black?

    We at Anthem Opinions STRONGLY ENDORSE Nelson Orth to CLEANSE the Sun City Anthem community of the DIRT caused by a POLITICAL MACHINE endorsed again and again, by an individual whose record in life, doesn't hold a candle to the man he dares criticizing. 

    And...we can assure you, when you look at what we have discovered about the other candidates he has endorsed in the days to come, you will agree with us when we use the word, MACHINE, and say...

    "You are, who you associate with"

    and

    "Birds of a feather, flock together"

    Electing Nelson Orth means DEFEATING THE MACHINE.
___________________

We Like
Richard Pope
for
The Sun City Anthem Board of Directors


Want relevant business experience ? 

Want accountability of Sun City Anthem expenses? 

Want questions answered before committing thousands of association dollars?

Want a Board to act like a GROUP, rather than servants to only a President's whims?

Want...


Image result for common sense
Image result for question mark

In short, if you want a person who knows what he's doing, has a RELEVANT background of success, is conservative in spending, and  is a "people" person who LISTENS before he acts...

Then, elect Richard Pope to the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors.

Over the fifteen years of watching one director after another make promise after promise, claiming that without them in charge, the world would fall apart,, we've seen many come and go. 

Many residents are unaware that the resumes submitted on flyers are never vetted; and all too often, a public falls for them "hook, line & sinker", electing individuals at the suggestion of another blogger whose personal business experience couldn't fit in a thimble, and whose concern amounts to a single word:

Image result for machine word

Image result for polical machine


...with the result in many cases of waste, incompetence, a lack of relevant experience, and worst of all, a complete lack of common sense in spending and/or dealing with people.

We checked Richard Pope out...and his flyer IS ACCURATE.

Here's a horrible fact about Sun City Anthem's current governance.

Buck the "machine" and you become A PROBLEM in achieving personal agendas that in so many cases, have created a system where your opinion means little if anything at all.

Take the restaurant issue for example.

Is a simple "yes" or "no" answer to a survey that didn't even mention the words "self-management" sufficient reason to commit property owner funds for years to come?

Obviously not, thanks to the 1,358 individuals who signed petitions saying NO...obtained in less than a two week period.

Or should the matter be studied more carefully, especially in light of a city that is now completely...


Image result for closed for business

Can you imagine the losses to our community had such a concept gone forth under the current circumstances where most restaurants are now closed due to a pandemic?

If you believe this matter should be more closely studied, then it makes "common sense" that a Sun City Anthem Board include members who have it...

...and in our opinion, Richard Pope is one of those persons...

...unlike candidatesWendy LinowPaul Perlstein, and Candace Karrow, who would gladly commit thousands of your dollars, despite the current economic climate that exists.

Those three candidates represent...
Image result for polical machine
Mr. Pope wants to get control of spending, work with Revere Golf course to continue their presence, and examine Sun City Anthem's  spending that pertains to the contributions made to Anthem Community Council.

He favors the preparation of an ACCURATE restaurant analysis to present to property owners in a detailed survey to determine the wants and desires and FINANCIAL ADVANTAGES AND CONSEQUENCES to those who will be paying for it....YOU and I.

...and that represents an open mind that makes decisions based on FACTS, not whims.

For another blogger to look at such a person as "one who might have my support in the future" is LUDICROUS.

What that blogger actually means is that Pope might have his support in the future if POPE PLAYS BALL WITH THE MACHINE.

Well, Richard Pope is NOT THE MACHINE, and his election to the Sun City Anthem Board means competence, experience, an independent voice, and a sense of community...

...watching  the pennies as if they were his own, and doing so in a manner where a Board is looked at as a GROUP, not creatures to be controlled or bullied as is the case with another individual endorsed by the blogger who DOES HAVE HIS SUPPORT, Candace Karrow.

We urge all of readers, to choose Richard Pope for the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors.  

He's the "real deal".

Richard Pope is Position #3 on the ballot.
_____________________


Anthem Community Council
Is it Time to Reevaluate
Sun City City Anthem Participation?
(Part One of Two)

Image result for thinking out loud"

When you "go along to get along" without sufficient supervision, generally your result is stagnation combined with inefficiency, which in many cases often results in being taken advantage of !

That seems to be the case with Anthem Community Council, the organization that was originally drafted when the Anthem communities were constructed 20 years ago as part of the Henderson Master Plan.

That was a long time ago, and the Sun City Anthem Board and residents need to evaluate the Anthem Council without delay to determine the options this community has available to exercise it's fiduciary responsibility.

A few months ago, resident and CURRENT BOARD CANDIDATENelson Orth, perhaps the only surviving Sun City Anthem resident who has kept tabs on this organization for over 15 years, wrote a series of articles that more than enlightened our community, bringing facts to bear, that to date have been ignored.

...and the time has come to STOP ignoring them for a number of reasons...

...especially since Mr. Orth discovered that the Sun City Anthem contribution to Anthem Council is the community's 3rd largest budget item behind salaries and benefits, and Reserve contributions!

Nelson Orth is a REFORMER who for years has sought truth with these goals and objectives:

OPEN COMMUNICATION
 and
ACCOUNTABILITY

Consider the "mechanics" of the quarterly financial demand from Anthem Council !

It is made by a simple PHONE CALL without itemized documentation !

If you received a phone call saying...

Image result for phone call"

 "Send me $158,250", would you ask for a detailed bill as to how that amount was determined and what it was for ????

(That's the quarterly request from Anthem Council...and is requested by a simple PHONE CALL without itemized documentation)

I'm going to go out on a limb and say, if you didn't, then as PT Barnum once put it...

Image result for pt barnum a sucker is born every minute"

...and it appears a perfect example of Mr. Barnum's famous quote is none other than:

Image result for sun city anthem logo henderson nv"

Since Mr. Orth originally authored his original 5 part series of informative articles, would you like to know how our Sun City Anthem representative has reacted?  

Better yet, do you even know who that person is?

Well, that person is Arthur Scheutz, the "barely elected" member of the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors in 2019 who finished in 5th place, and NOT RUNNING for reelection...

...but....

...has recently been appointed to the Anthem Community Council Board by the current MACHINE CONTROLLED BOARD...

...the same one that as of May 1, 2020, will no longer includMACHINE CONTROLLED David WeilJames Coleman, and hopefully, based on all the negative reactions,  MACHINE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT Candice Karrow, should she NOT be reelected.

However.... 

We also have another "member at large" on Anthem Community Council, a man named Larry Orlov, whom no one to date has determined who he iswhat his qualifications were, or how he was chosen.

What we do know is that he too is a member of the Sun City Anthem community and that he is of the same belief that...

 Asking questions is a "no-no"; that when you get a bill by way of a phone call to pay one, you just pay it !

That should be UNACCEPTABLE to a community that finances Anthem Community Council to the tune of thousands of dollars each year without even the benefit of an itemized bill !

Tomorrow in Part Two, we'll look at other aspects of Anthem Council and the need to closely examine the extent of Sun City Anthem's participation.

Needless to say, Arthur Scheutz has been a disappointment; and in our opinion, should resign or be removed as Sun City Anthem's Anthem Community Council's representative at the earliest opportunity due to what we believe is NOT ACTING IN THE BEST INTERESTS of our association, resulting from his refusal to answer the questions Mr. Orth had asked, especially when one considers the immense amount of the Sun City Anthem contributions being made.

We believe that Mr. Orth's seeking ANSWERS not merely now but consistently over the years, has more than demonstrated he cannot "be boughtby any MACHINE, and for that reason in his dedication to fining TRUTH, would make an EXCELLENT member of the Sun City Anthem Board...

...a belief not shared by David Berman, knowing that Orth's election would put another nail in the MACHINE's coffin Berman has been responsible for promoting year after year.

We hope you share this belief based on the evidence we have presented.

End "the Machine"...

...and cast your ballot for Nelson OrthBallot Position #2. He will bring the reform sorely needed in our community.

Tomorrow in Part Two, we'll discuss:

a. More details of the amounts paid to Anthem Community Council.


b. The lack of communication afforded Sun City Anthem by our Council representatives.

c. If conflicts of interest exist among parties to our Anthem Community Council agreement.

d. Questions that need to be answered WITH PROVIDED DOCUMENTATION as to the answers given.
___________________


Anthem Council
Is it Time to Reevaluate
Sun City City Anthem Participation?
(Part Two of Two)

Image result for thinking out loud"

Yesterday, in Part One we discussed Anthem Council and the substantial amount of unknown information provided Sun City Anthem other than sending our community a bill...without SUMMARIZING a breakdown of its assessments.

In August, 2019 each Anthem Community Council community INCREASED the amount of subsidy per household effective in 2020 WITHOUT EVEN THE COURTESY OF A PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT as to WHY !

What most are unaware of is that each property in Sun City Anthem in 2020 will be assessed $88.74 by Anthem Community  Council, a $3 per home modest increase over 2019, but nevertheless, AN INCREASE...an increase without written justification as to its purpose (included in association assessments).


Doing the math, that amounts to an additional $21,432 over the 2019 amount to Sun City Anthem property owners ALONE.


Sadly, the Sun City Anthem Board and management never even bothered to officially mention this increase to the community in any publication or eblast...

...until AFTER the increase was approved...in November, 2019 !

 Arthur Schuetz, the appointed member of Anthem Community Council by the Sun City Anthem Board, decided to inform the community of the increase AFTER THE FACT, taking it t upon himself to vote for it without any consultation with the Board.

The increase might be somewhat insignificant to many, but in the words of Benjamin Franklin...


Image result for if you watch the pennies the dollars

That's the problem...we have not done a very good job of watching those pennies over the years because they have evolved into some VERY LARGE DOLLARS !

What brought the matter to a head was Board Secretary Rana Goodman questioning a $158,000+ amount...at first believing it was an ANNUAL AMOUNT...

...an annual amount in 2020 that will exceed $633,000...

...an amount that represents approximately 51-52% of the ENTIRE Anthem Community Council budget...


...making that item one of  Sun City Anthem's largest budgeted expense items below employee incomes and benefits and reserve contributions....


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...AND... THOSE ARE VERY BIG DOLLARS !

This has been the "norm" for years without question...except for the continual investigating of that organization by Mr. Orth, who until now, has been ignored for "asking too many questions".

Those questions...answers to which each and every Sun City Anthem resident is entitled to be made aware....

...have largely been ignored or "sugarcoated" by our current representatives to Anthem Community Council, Sun City Anthem Board Member, Arthur Schuetz, and the elusive and unknown at-large member who also resides in Sun City Anthem, Larry Orlov.

And those questions began a quest of obtain answers by Nelson Orth.

Some of those questions were summarized in Part One of our series, but there is more that raises one's eyebrows !

Image result for raised eyebrows emoji

Though we have not confirmed this fact, we believe the attorney for Anthem Council is Adam Clarkson....

...the same attorney who represents Sun City Anthem and Seven Hills.

If that be the case, is that a conflict of interest

Can one attorney fairly represent both parties of an agreement?

Who is the managing company for Anthem Community Council?

Image result for first service financial hoa"
...the same firm that Sun City Anthem DUMPED in favor of self-management.

And on top of everything else, because of the way the original agreement was drafted, there are several Anthem communities who DON'T PAY A DIME for any landscaping costs that they enjoy...

...and when subsequently asked to "cough up some bucks", kindly told the Council to...
Image result for jump in the lake"
So...where to we go from here?

A thinking (and responsible individual) would likely believe the objective is FAIR TREATMENT, but how should that be obtained?

Obviously, according to the startling reports presented by Mr. Orth,  the "status quo" has led to one community bearing a substantial brunt of costs....namely ours, Sun City Anthem, to the advantage of the others who share the Anthem community umbrella.

And it is about time that our REAPPOINTED representative Arthur Scheutz (who will be leaving the Sun City Anthem Board on May 1, 2020) and the elusive Mr. Orlov need to provide the owners of our community the following as members of an organization that sends Sun City Anthem an "unitemized " bill in excess of $633,000 !

1Is an independent community no longer affiliated with Del Webb or Pulte still subject to the original agreement that was signed other than the regulations of the Henderson Master Plan?

2Should Sun City Anthem demand that the agreement be renegotiated and include all the communities in the Anthem area?

3If no renegotiation is considered by the remaining Council members, should Sun City Anthem withdraw from Anthem Council completely, caring only for that portion of the landscaping costs that pertain to the original Master Plan?

4If other communities do not participate in the costs (or are not up to date in their assessments), should Anthem Council TERMINATE services to those areas ?

5If it is confirmed that Adam Clarkson is the Anthem Community Council attorney, should Adam Clarkson continue to represent both Anthem Community Council and Sun City Anthem simultaneously?  Do you believe that such representation is a conflict of interest that likely would result in bias of any kind ?

6Should representation as an "at large" member to Anthem Council be subject to public evaluation or ELECTION?

We understand that curtailing services to other communities would likely have a somewhat adverse impact on Sun City Anthem, but after 20 years, we strongly believe that the time has come to play "hard ball" and demand an accurate accounting of expenses that in the past, have been assessed without proper accountability and/or equality.

In our opinion, it would appear that the time has come to closely examine this organizations's function, the manner in which expenditures are made, and its value to the Anthem communities AS A WHOLE.

We hope that this issue will play a role in the upcoming 2020 Board of Directors election...

...and Board Member and Anthem Community Council member Arthur Scheutz and fellow Sun City Anthem resident and fellow Anthem Community Council member, Larry Orlov, will provide a FULL EXPLANATION with DOCUMENTATION of what we are paying for, and the JUSTIFICATION for those amounts, as well as, why they continue providing services to other Anthem communities without ANY FORM OF THEIR ACTIVE FINANCIAL PARTICIPATION.

Why?

Image result for it's the right thing to do"


If you feel this issue must FINALLY be addressed after 20 years of paying huge amounts to an organization without sufficient documentation, we believe that there is only one person knowledgeable enough to tackle such a project...
.
...a man who has followed this organization for years, unsuccessfully attempting and being ACTIVELY BLOCKED TIME AND AGAIN to obtain information all Sun City Anthem residents SHOULD KNOW, then we highly recommend the one person knowledgeable to do so...

..by electing Nelson Orth (Ballot Position #2to the Sun City Anthem Board.
_________________________

Following the Anthem Opinions Five Part Article exposing the Seddon Contract "expedition" to obtain it...


...we received the following correspondence warning Sun City Anthem residents of the "realCandace Karrow,  the current president of the Association Board of Directors and candidate for reelection.

Former Sun City Anthem Finance Committee Chairman
States
 Why
Candace Karrow


Must Not Be Reelected

by
Bernard Horton
Former Chairman
Sun City Anthem Finance Committee


You are right on your description about Candace Karrow and her manner of addressing members, volunteer members, and even her bullying of fellow directors.  

The truth about her extremely unprofessional leadership must be disclosed so she is not reelected to further degrade the community.  

The shut down means candidates cannot meet with members at the Centers, or for events like the Current Events Candidate Forum that was cancelled.  

Residents should go to SCA-TV website, 

to download them and also watch the Candidate Forum to see how each candidate answered questions.    

As former Chair of the SCA Finance Committee, I know exactly how Candace's offensive conduct led to the resignation of six seasoned fiancial volunteers donating their time to the community. 

For readers who want the details of what happened that ended in our resignation, send an email to:

They will receive documentation to decide for themselves what kind of Director and Board President she has been.    

My emails prove I advised the board of concerns starting last October regarding failures to follow NRS on passing the budget, and that FC members were questioning why we should serve since they just ignore our communications.  

She ignored using the Finance Committee when she led the vote to spend a million dollars on the two contracts at the Dec. Board meeting.  

REALLY!  

She did not want to take any chance we might challenge her decision to override our reserve study's engineering firm's analysis of immediately spending $600,000 not allocated in our Reserve Fund for the projects!    

People might call some directors and ask if they are voting to reelect Candace Karrow.

Some may share their opinion of her in writing, but some may not, rather than face her wrath.


I have a long list of reasons why I will NOT vote for for her.

I will provide it to those who ask for it at the above email.

Here are a few reasons on that list:


During my tenure as a volunteer for over three years to the Finance Committee, I observed Candace Karrow:

1Disrespecting SCA volunteers as the Finance Committee documents I can provide, prove, lead to mass resignations.

2Failing to Stop Director David Weil's public attack (at the December 19, 2019 meeting of the Finance Committee for simply requesting to see a copy of the restaurant tax impact analysis.

3Failing to call for an independent group of members to do any inquiry on why all six of us on the Finance Committee resigned.

Instead, Candace KarrowArt Scheutz, and Dave Weil initiated a recommendation and voted to amend the Finance Committee Charter less than 30 days after the six of us resigned., wanting to limit the Finance Committee's "troublesome habit" of finding ERRORS and suggesting improvements.

4Disrespecting fellow directors by keeping them uninformed and isolating them even when they have the best credentials and knowledge!

Karrow prevented former Treasurer, Forrest Quinn, MBA, CPA, from preparing the 2020 budget by participating in the 2020 Reserve Study update, even though NO OTHER DIRECTOR has his knowledge in those areas.

Did you ever wonder what lead to Director Forrest Quinn to suddenly resign as the association Treasurer?

5. Voting to spend over a million dollars for parking lot and pool work NOT IDENTIFIED needing to be done by our 2018 Reserve Study prepared by Criterium Engineering, a 50 year old firm and the EXPERT used by some of the largest HOAs in America (such at Houston's Woodlands with a population of over 90,000 residents).

That amount exceeded the actual fund earmarked in our reserve for the work by OVER $600,000, which will likely impact our future association assessments. 

6Voting to spend over $1,000,000 for parking lot and pool work WITHOUT ASKING for any analysis by the 3 CPAs, 2 MBAs, and the Chairman of the Finance Committee.

7Rushing to start the parking lot project WITHOUT ANY STUDY how it would impact scheduled events like shows, caucuses, etc. (as in summer when many residents leave the community for travel back to other areas due to excessive heat), or the impact on members, clubs, employees, activities, contract staff doing classes and personal training, events calendared-like caucuses, home show, etc.) OR even the traffic flow in and out of Anthem Center.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

We at Anthem Opinions, urge all property owners in the Sun City Anthem community to strongly heed this advice.

Send it to your fellow neighbors and owners, and take this election more seriously than ever before! 

This is an opportunity to END machine politics and those who have contributed to the problems that have festered for years, even causing Sun City Anthem to be the subject of TWO "HOA Hall of Shame Reports" by Channel 13's Darcy Spears....

..that this and two of the other recommendations of blogger, David Berman, namely Wendy Linow and Paul Perlstein, along with Candace Karrow, are disciples of his influence and corruption that have influenced the Sun City Anthem community for years.

Got a comment?

Send it to us at:

scaopinions@gmail.com



Mr. Horton's comments are spot on. What makes matters worse is that the current dysfunctional behavior of Ms. Karrow is not the the first time it has resulted in the destruction the Finance Committee and undermining the authority of the Treasure. Same behavior was on full display in 2010 through 2011.
  1. From Victor Tolin...to...Anthem Opinions

    Whenever I see unusual or irrational activity, I always remember the adage "Follow the money""
  1. From Jim Mayfield...Former Sun City Anthem Board Vice President and Chairman of the Finance Committee...to...Anthem Opinions

    Since the CFO reported that a $1.5 million deficit now exists in the reserve fund, ALL cost savings from the shut down should be reported by the CFO and transferred to the reserve fund to mitigate the possibility, indeed probability, of a future special assessment, an increase in the annual assessment, or windfall spending.
  1. From Marcia Kosterka...to...Anthem Opinions

    I have always had a sixth sense regarding people and I can say that it has served me well throughout my life.  I have been 99% correct in my assumptions.  Either by carefully observing or interacting with someone, I immediately get a sixth sense as to whether I want to pursue further contact with that individual.

    Having said that I have come to the following conclusions regarding Candace Karrow.

    1. She is definitely suffering from what is commonly known in psychology circles as the DOG Syndrome.  In common English, it stands for Delusions of Grandeur which means "a false impression of one's own importance".

    She thinks of herself as the queen of the kingdom known as Sun City Anthem and we are her serfs.

    Furthermore, she feels that she is smarter and more educated than we serfs and therefore knows what is best for us.

    She treats our money given to support her kingdom as if it were her own which she has often spent foolishly.

    In addition, there were previous kings and queens of our kingdom that have acted in the same unacceptable way towards we serfs, the homeowners.

    2. There is NO room for rudeness, arrogance and lack of humility on any board member EVER!!!

    But we do have a weapon to rid ourselves of this continuing curse.  That is the ballot box in the upcoming election.

    We have the power to send those who fall into this disgusting catagory OUT!!!

    This is a powerful weapon that will send a message to anyone who dares to act in this demeaning manner as a board member ever again THAT YOU ARE NOT WANTED!!!!
______________________
Paul Perlstein
Why we Consider Him
Unfit to be a member of
The Sun City Anthem Board of Directors

Looking for a Board member who would qualify in a class of his own?

Then Paul Perlstein should be your choice to represent you in the Sun City Anthem election.

This guy seems to be so "off the wall" that anyone who meets him, would likely walk away from him and...well...

...Keep on going !

We've had some people run for office before, but after listening to this guy talk, I think I'd rather be handcuffed in a dark room with a strong light in my face, being forced to read another Corona Virus article on the Berman blog...

...than have someone like this make decisions on my life.

Mr. Perlstein is the perfect example of what we've been telling you for years....

....that candidate flyers, never being vetted, are let's just say...

..."inflatedas to their contents.

Let's take a closer look at Paul Perlstein, the man who wants to guide you through the future.

We'll start with his trying to convince individuals that selling restaurant equipment qualifies him as an "expert" at restaurant operations.

That's like comparing the AAA guy who comes to charge a dead battery to an expert in auto mechanics !

After examining his flyer (the same one that The Berman blog utilized to recommend his election), we couldn't help but notice that though he claims years of experience in the Food Equipment Industry, for some reason HE NEVER MENTIONED any firm or firms that employed him.

That didn't "cut it" in our opinion, so...

We checked into his background. 

According to what we discovered, he was or currently is...a "Project Executive" for a firm located in Florida called "Baring Industries...A Division of Electrolux Professional".

Here is the company website:

And...here's what a rating system called "Build Zoom " had to say about that firm.

As you will see if you open the links, Mr. Perlstein's experience does not in any way show any restaurant experience, other than selling it equipment.

That's a restaurant "expert"?  

Well, it is in the minds of "The Machine".

Now...Let's go into Mr. Perlstein's views as to a future Sun City Anthem restaurant.

He is a very strong advocate of a  self-managed operation  (resident/owner "pay-all" venture) as evidenced by this comment on his flyer."

"Let's stop fooling around and get things moving"

He obviously bases that comment on a survey taken over two years ago that asked a simple "yes" or "no" question, and in no way addressed the "resident/owner pay-all" idea that is being "sold" on the basis of "self-managed" with many in the community not aware of what that entails.

That...in our opinion, is not "the voice of experience", but rather "the voice of inexperience" by drawing a conclusion to spend thousands of association funds without proper examination of THE FULL STORY and a properly designed survey in order to make an INTELLIGENT DECISION.

...which in our mind, represents...

Top 8 Money Mistakes to Avoid in 2020

...something that has been referred to a characteristic of...

THE 

Code - Word Association by Hamish Macpherson on Dribbble

But...as is normally the case, there's always "more to the story"...

...the part that another blogger has had a consistent habit of never disclosing to achieve a SELF-CENTERED objective which over the years, that has in too many instances, have also resulted in..

Top 8 Money Mistakes to Avoid in 2020

Let's take the moment when the Board candidates choose their ballot positions...and his comment that he believed was "bad luck" by being the first to choose, only to end up in  a poor position that those at the session looked at as an "immature child not getting his way".


Screaming Baby GIFs | Tenor

Then there was the "speech" at a Board meeting that he had to be the last to the microphone where he reiterated his "let's get going" on the restaurant...

Blowhard | Politics Forum.org

...where the overwhelming number in the audience LAUGHED AT HIM, while looking at each other, with what appeared to be interpreted as:

OMG...where did this guy come from?


But we have to save the best for last.

The Election Committee Chair, in her ultimate wisdom, sent an email to ALL the Candidates admonishing them for inappropriate behavior.   

None of them knew what they could possibly have done wrong, especially since everyone is cloistered, they have had little or no contact with the residents. 

They have tried to find out, but cannot get an answer, but, Mr. Perlstein expressed his concerns in an email to his fellow candidates, as follows:

"To All,

I agree with my fellow Candidates.  I have been out of town (physically and mentally) for the past week.  Please tell me what happened."

Let's just say...

We rest our case as to his fitness to represent the residents of Sun City Anthem.

After checking him out again and again, in our opinion, this guy belongs on the FARM...

...the funny one !

The Funny Farm - http://www.oocities.org/Heartland/Hills/3456/

...not the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors.

_______________________


Wendy Linow
A Candidate with Lots of Bark
 but
Whose "Beef"
is
 Cheap Baloney

Image result for wendy linow

If you liked Rex Weddle and Candace Karrow, you'll love Wendy Linow.

All seem to be cut from the same "control freak" pie, and electing this individual to the Sun City Anthem Board would be the closest thing to wanting your own dog to bite you, then thanking it for doing so.

Ms. Linow has a history that you should be aware of before you cast a vote in her direction...

...and now we know why she has refused to answer any questions asked of her on Anthem Opinions.

Let's take a good look that what "she brings to the table" or perhaps, a better way to say it, what "she wants to take from it".

She states she has experience running an HOA, but what she somehow failed to state was the numerous organizations she worked for, and in a number of cases, why she departed, or her success at getting along with people.

She also states she was elected to the Solera Board of Directors, but after searching individuals in that community for their thoughts, and people who insisted on remaining anonymous out of fear of her tactics, she was not likedwas a bully, and obnoxious as to how she handled the position.  

Once again, we strongly suggest that if you know a person who resides in the Solera community, give them a call and ask their opinion of her.

So, do these criticisms deserve merit?

We believe so, and here's why.

If any of you attended any of the restaurant work shops, Wendy was there...and...ready for battle, a battle not waged with common sense, but one with loud noise.

She would rise up, yell to the audience, "Do You Want a Restaurant?" and half the room would raise their hands...until...

...Board Director Rana Goodman stated "Wait, there's more to that question, Who Wants to Pay For It?"...

...and suddenly half of those who originally raised their hands, quickly dropped them to their laps.

She obviously wanted a restaurant, but based her belief that the community should accept one on the premise that a two year old survey that only requested a simple "yes" or "no" response, and in no way involved a "property owner pay all" self managed restaurant,  tells you quite a bit about her ability to financially handle an $8--$9 million organization's affairs.

And at the last Board meeting, when she tried the same antic, she was literally laughed at as she completed her typical loud appeal.

But we're saving the best example of her financial abilities for last...

...something which, if you haven't yet been convinced that there is more "baloney" that real "beef" to this individual's ability to lead, this final fact should cause any logical individual to cast her aside when it comes to checking her name on any ballot.

You see, Wendy purchased a nice home Sun City Anthem after she left Solera in 2013, but three years later on April 26, 2017,  she declared ...

What Happens to Your Financial Accounts in Bankruptcy?

...not just a bankruptcy to reorganize her debts in order to arrange some method of reimbursement to those who would suffer for her financial ineptitude through Chapter 11; but instead, "went the distance" in STIFFING ALL OF HER CREDITORS filing...


What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy - Filing Rules & Means Test

It was discharged as such by the court on August 1, 2017, a mere two and half years ago.

Check it out...we did, and for some reason, Wendy decided to omit that information on her campaign flyer, didn't she?

And of course her main supporter, David Berman, certainly wasn't going to mention it.   That would have been THE FULL TRUTH, and certainly would have upset a MACHINE apple cart.

Then again...
Water seeks its own level. A metaphor for how things equalize in ...


But...she has since retiredkept her home, and for some reason, miraculously now has the necessary funds to continue a retired life in Sun City Anthem, asking a community to believe she now should be trusted to provide you the financial security, she obviously was incapable of providing herself.

And with that all this behind her, we ask you this simple question?

Who in their right mind would vote for an individual that any bank would likely deny a personal loan having a Chapter 7 bankruptcy as a part of their RECENT background?

We know who !
THE

Image result for the machine word

Think about it ! 

Is this a person you would trust with your retirement future at stake?

We certainly DON'T !
  1. From Valerie Lapin...to...Anthem Opinions

    Thank you for your informative article today!  It was a real eye opener about one of the candidates currently running for the Board.  Hopefully this information will educate owners about who to elect and who to avoid.
____________________________


Summarizing Our 2020
Sun City Anthem Election Choices

How to Write a Summary of an Article | Udemy Blog

Let's give a quick summary of our opinions of the 2020 Sun City Anthem Board candidates.

You will notice that though you will be asked to choose 4 individuals for election to the Board, Anthem Opinions suggests only voting for 3:

Nelson Orth (2)
Richard Pope (3)
Stephen Anderson (4)

Why 3 instead of 4?

...because the remaining candidates are MACHINE and carry with them credentials that make none of them fit to run an HOA with the competence and cordiality to which each property owner is entitled.

Look at WHAT endorsed KarrowPerlstein and Linow in the post card all of us received a couple of days ago?  

It was sent by a former Sun City Anthem President, Jean Capillupo who can never deny she authorized two $20,000 loans to a restaurant operator without proper vetting...and BOTH defaulted.

It included 11 former members of  Sun City Anthem Boards who at times during their terms were responsible for the following:

a. 5 Failed restaurants...even accepting a bank robber and his wife as one of them and another who was caught walking out the back door with Sun City Anthem equipment.

b. A Liberty Center accepted on an "as is" basis, without professional examination....costing residents thousands of dollars.

c. An IRS settlement costing us $100,000 plus accounting and legal fees due to incorrectly filing a wrong Income Tax return.

d. Withholding the contents of a C.O.O. contract 
not deemed to be confidential by the Nevada Real Estate Division, a document still not available on an official SCA website, yet threatening possible criminal punishment to anyone disclosing it.

e. Citing hundreds of residents for the most ridiculous reasons as to how homes were decorated.

f. Being elected to the HOA Hall of Shame on Channel 13 on TWO occasions.

None of this can be denied...NONE OF IT.

And these individuals are in a position to endorse ANYTHING with that in their records?

But...unfortunately one of their endorsements will be elected due to the community having a choice of 4....

...and in good conscience, the remaining three represent everything that is WRONG with Sun City Anthem, not what is right.

Therefore, it remains a matter of choice as to who is the best of the worst; that a vote for any of them will accomplish the same as those who are departing, namely James ColemanArthur Schuetz, and David Weil, namely NOTHING.

These individuals are:

Candace Karrow (1)

Paul Perlstein (5)

Wendy Linow (6)

They are the descendants of those 11, who, based on their collective records, represented incompetenceliesdeceptionsecretive back door dealings, and immense financial losses to our community.


Why would any person believe such individuals would be anything other than CLONES of those who endorsed them?

OrthPope and Anderson are free thinkers. 

None belong to an unofficial club we have often referred to as THE MACHINE.

They will look at matters both collectively as well as individually, and in all cases, have pledged to actively seek the expertise available within our community.

In addition, all seem to be open minded as to any restaurant issue, supporting a detailed survey summarizing facts each property owner has the right to know before thousands of dollars of YOUR money is spent.

All three represent a new beginning of examination, redefining the role of GOOD MANAGEMENT, and fresh faces as we begin the third decade of the 21st century.

As far as KarrowPerlstein, and Linow, they offer little of anything that the MACHINE has supported year after year.

All three support a restaurant without sufficient study  (no matter what you may have read elsewhere).  

Their statements made at the various restaurant work shops WERE UNDENIABLE in that respect.

All fully support going forth with one on the basis of an old survey that in no way mentioned a "property owner pay-all" self-managed arrangement, proving beyond any doubt their lack of financial responsibility in opposing any detailed study.

But looking at each of them individually, this is what they offer:

Perlstein has never run any restaurant, yet claims selling them equipment makes him a restaurant expert. 

Linow's history of Chapter 7 bankruptcy...not disclosed on any flyer...raises a convincing argument as to her financial COMPETENCE...

...and Karrow has been proven to be a DOMINEERING BULLY, acting as if fellow Board members are not her equal, but instead her servants, while PUBLICLY and TACTLESSLY insulting members of the Asian community and others who question her decisions. 


She signed a C.O.O. contract as Association President, WITHHOLDING its contents to the owners despite the Nevada Real Estate Division making it known that such a contract SHOULD HAVE BEEN MADE AVAILABLE to any property owner.

In other words, DOES THAT CONSTITUTE LYING TO A COMMUNITY ?


We believe the answer is more than obvious !

Accordingly, with these facts in mind, we urge the property owners of Sun City Anthem to end MACHINE influence by choosing the following on their 2020 ballot:

2--3--4

Nelson Orth (2)
Richard Pope (3)
Stephen Anderson (4)


Wendy Linow can't deny one thing, SHE DECLARED a Chapter 7 bankruptcy....the one where ALL debts are fully discharged, leaving ALL creditors with EMPTY POCKETS.

It is a shame that Ms. Linow lost her husband; that from 2008 to about 2011, times were tough on America, but what can't be denied is that IF YOU SPEND MORE THAN YOU MAKE, and then SAY TO YOUR CREDITORS, "So sad, too bad", that is an example of POOR PLANNING...

...and such a manner of planning normally never changes over their lives.

Ms. Linow, when your husband passed away in 2015, did you recognize that PROPER RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL PLANNING requires changes in your life if problems ensue?

Did you decide to look for housing in any AFFORDABLE areas once it was discovered funds were not available to maintain a lifestyle you were accustomed to?

Doesn't appear so, that's what RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE DO.

The fact that you and your departed husband resided in the same home just doesn't cut it as an excuse to remain there while others who trusted you with THEIR FUNDS, suffered loss.

Rather than that, you then declared bankruptcy in 2017 but kept that upscale home, didn't you ???

Did you declare Chapter 11 bankruptcy where a responsible individual makes an attempt to even partially REPAY THOSE who trusted you?

No, you did not, despite your commentary that suggested you did. Would have, could of,should of doesn't change the bottom line...YOU DID NOT.

Instead, you choose the easy path...Chapter 7, where EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THOSE WHO TRUSTED YOU HAD TO ABSORB YOUR DEBTS, leaving you free and clear to go your merry way, knowing that your home would be protected.

Now, two years later, you want an EXPENSIVE "self-managed property owner pay all" restaurant, spending a massive amount of money without any detailed financial survey or analysis.

The result , Ms. Linow, remains the same, and it appears that the lesson of DON'T SPEND MORE THAN YOU MAKE hasn't changed much, leaving you with an attitude of SO WHAT, I'm still entitled to it.

Sorry, Ms. Linow, your story might be sad, but that doesn't mean you can expect others who TRUSTED YOU with THEIR FUNDS, TO PAY YOUR DEBTS so you can maintain your lifestyle with hubby's replacement.

This EXPOSE of your financial record would never have taken place had there been any REAL attempt to show you were a responsible person who tried to repay any of those who trusted you, but as said earlier....

You decided instead to say TO HELL WITH ALL OF THEM.

If anyone feels that is the type of individual who you want to manage your money, then vote for her. It's that simple.

But remember that people who feel they are "entitled", rarely change that attitude, and that bad habits normally repeat...especially when you've figured out a way to "work a system" in order to maintain a lifestyle at other's expense.

...and an old business adage comes to mind if one chooses to have such an individual manage your money...

"I'm sorry to learn of your misfortune and I hope you've learned a lesson, but LEARN IT WITH SOMEONE ELSE."

Sorry Ms. Linow, YOUR SAD STORY in no way changes the fact that anyone with common sense should trust an individual with handling $8 million to $ 9 million a year who couldn't even qualify for a loan at a bank.


  1. We are always sorry when anyone loses a loved one, but that being said the nerve, the gall, and even the chutzpah of her to run for the board. Shame on her to even consider her running.

    When you look at a history of actions by her are exposed, she needs to say, "thank you for your consideration" but I need to step down. Of course why didn't she expose any of this...she knew, but still stepped up to the plate with all her baggage. Thank you, Dick for this information.

    Only bone heads will still give her a vote...sad, isn't it.
  2. From Sherry Goldstein...to...Anthem Opinions

    When my husband was running last year for the board, she was standing at his table when he was discussing not raising the dues because there are a lot of people here that are on one check having lived here a long time and lost a spouse.

    I remember her either saying or agreeing with another person if she didn’t say it herself that they should move if they can’t afford it.

    I thought it was a very cruel thing to say then and I especially do now, hearing her story.

    If she is talking about letting her Solera home go in 2015, home prices were not down then but up.

    Dick Arendt asked all the candidates for comments and some like Wendy refused.

    Still didn’t give him an email address for her.

    There are two sides to Wendy Linow,

    She is just showing you one, we saw the other.

    She has chosen to be an insider for a man who many people consider to be the problem in our beloved community.
  3. From Bill W...to...Anthem Opinions

    I would like to know what bank in their right mind at that time would qualify them for another mortgage when you are upside down on another mortgage.

    She was “hoping for a tenant for their Solera property.”

    In addition, she did not elaborate why her insurance wasn’t paying her medical bills.

    There is a lot missing from this story.
  4. Sherry and Bill,

    We concur. There is likely A LOT MORE to the Linow story, and with all those questions unanswered, it looks like we have a TAKER running for the Board, not a GIVER.

    As Judge Judy often says, "If it doesn't make sense, it's probably not true".

    Either way, giving such an individual the reigns on a multi-million dollar organization with this in her closet...

    ...a closet she REFUSED TO DISCLOSE until Anthem Opinions brought it to light...

    ...leaves a lot of doubt as to what else might be located there.

    And that in itself, is reason enough to question her fitness on the Sun City Anthem Board...

    ...kind of like trying to retain a LAWYER, then finding he lost his license due to fraud and forgery after the fact.
______________________

Issues I Promise to Address
if
Elected to the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors

(Part One of Three)
by
Richard Pope
Sun City Anthem Board Candidate
Ballot Position #3

Why I am running for SCA’s Executive Board.

The current SCA Board and management have completed a number of projects and cut association expenses that have benefited our community. SCA’s rating on 55+ website has increase to #4 under their governance. 

However, as a member of the Finance Committee and from extensive research, I believe they have ignored IRS, NRS, NAC and SCA governing documents in preforming their financial duties. 

The Board has not been transparent in their communication with members, committees and among Directors.

My goal is to unify the new Board allowing it to operate as a team with each member having an equal voice and vote. 

Instruct and oversee management to review all processes and procedures to make sure SCA is in compliance with IRS, NRS, NAC and SCA governing documents. Bring back fiscal responsibility by only authorizing capital projects after a proper analysis has been perform and actively review all
material operational spend.

Make sure Directors roles and duties follow the guidelines in SCA’s Board

Policy Manual. And to ensure the Board is fully transparent in its communication.

I will give you specific examples for each area of concern in a three-part series.

Here is Part One:

Below are a few examples where Management, the current and past Boards have not followed IRS, NRS,NAC and SCA governing documents and exposed SCA to financial risk.

Tax Planning

a. SCA Management and Board have ignored appropriate tax planning. I brought this to their attention because it may cost members tens of thousands of dollars in income tax and penalties.

They have not responded to date on my concerns that include:

b.  SCA has filled IRS form 1120-H since 2011 without properly running the qualification tests.

c. SCA Board, instead of SCA members, have made the annual IRS Rev Ruling 70-604 election required to prevent surplus funds from becoming taxable.

d. SCA Board transferred 2017 and 2018 surplus funds to reserves in violation of IRS section 528.

e. Reserve assessments have not been properly reported to members in violation of IRS and NRS 116.

Financial Reporting

SCA Management and Board refused to accept the Finance Committee’s

and auditor’s requested financial reporting changes on the treatment of members assessments required by IRS, NRS and SCA governing documents until after the Finance Committee resigned.

The tax literature clearly states that members know how much of their assessments are for the operating fund, capital reserve fund, and non-capital reserve fund.

However, the SCA quarterly assessment coupon only discloses the total assessment, not the separate amounts for the operating fund and reserve fund. 

Furthermore, the assessments were not properly reported until January 2020 in the financial statements and were reported only as operating assessments on the monthly financials and annual budget.

Prior to January 2020, the capital and non-capital reserve funds assessments were moved to the capital reserve fund via an expense line on the operating profit and loss statement.

This was not proper General Accepted Accounting Principles treatment and violated all required reporting rules.

The requested change was simple:

Quarterly assessment coupon (still unchanged) – add the following lines:

a. Operating assessments
b. Capital Reserve Assessments
c. Non-Capital Reserve Assessments
d. Total Assessments (amount shown today)

 Annual budget and monthly financial reports (changed in January financials but not in budget)

a. Separately report assessments to their appropriate fund.

b.  Each fund now only has the actual assessments received for that purpose.

SCA’s Board failed to require management to prepare the annual review of material changes in SCA’s capital reserves required by NRS and SCA’s governing documents, even after I brought this to their attention.

Material, yet unaddressed reserve issues include:

Spending more than $600,000 on non-reserved expenses on the parking lot and spending on average 28% (past three years) more on reserved projects than budgeted. 

The Board did not request the Finance Committee to review and analyze the affect spending $600,000 on non-reserved spending would have on SCA capital reserves.

If you agree with me, I would appreciate your vote for:

Richard Pope – Ballot Position #3

In Part Two, I will explain my concerns pertaining to Capital Projects and Anthem Community Council.
_________________________


Issues I Promise to Address 
if
Elected to the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors

(Part Two of Three)

by
Richard Pope
Sun City Anthem Board Candidate
Ballot Position #3

In part one, I pointed out 3 areas where SCA Board and Management have violated IRS, NRS, NAC and SCA governing documents in tax planning, financial reporting and annual reserve study analysis.

I will discuss how the SCA’s Board has not adequately performed their fiscal responsibility by not applying the business-judgment rule to the following:
Capital Projects

The Board appears to always be in a rush to pass and start capital projects

without performing the appropriate analysis.

They fail to understand the meaning of “Like New” and consistently replace with new rather than taking the more cost-effective approach of

refurbishing.

For example:


a.  Pool tables


All tables were replaced instead of refurbishing (new bumpers,

pockets, felt and leveled slate slabs) at a fraction of the cost

b.  Roof

Was a completely new roof necessary or just what facilities

wanted?

The project was not managed correctly causing numerous leaks

and disruption to our community

cParking lot

Largest capital spent except for Liberty Center repairs.


Was it necessary to replace the whole parking lot even though the
core samples were good and not part of our reserve study?


We only received, I believe, 2 bids, NRS requires 3.


The Board did not ask the Finance Committee to review the affects of spending $600,000 more than reserved for  and the affect  onn SCA’s capital reserves.

In the December Board meeting, the Finance Committee Chair and 3 Board

members requested a one-month continuance to see if another bid could be obtained and to perform the needed analysis of the impact this spend would have on SCA’s capital reserves,  but were denied.

Anthem Community Council

I do not believe Management has done any proper analysis of the fees charged by Anthem Community Council, and the Board has not requested they do so.

As the third largest operating expense, I cannot see how this would pass the business judgement rule test.


Management should take the following steps to properly analyze SCA’s obligations to Anthem Community Council:


 Meet with representatives of the five other ACC communities to determine:

aWhat landscaping company each association uses?
b. What are the rates charged for each project?
c. Determine the best rate for each project.
dSee if SCA could do better on their rates.
e. What is their water usage by category?
f. Determine who has the best water usage rates.
g. Work together so we all conserve water.

Force Anthem Community Council, as a united team, to open their books and records:


a. Compare Anthem Council's landscape rates to the best determined rates.

b. Compare Anthem Council's water usage rates.
c. If needed, make suggestions to improve.
d. Review operational costs to make sure they are in line.

If you agree with me, I would appreciate your vote for:

Richard Pope – Ballot Position #3

In part three I will further my beliefs, concentrating on the responsibilities a Board Director must have toward a community's members, the various association committees, and among themselves as members of our Board.
_______________________


Issues I Promise to Address
if
Elected to the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors

(Part Three of Three)

by
Richard Pope
Sun City Anthem Board Candidate
Ballot Position #3

Before a Board can manage others, it must manage itself.

The current Board has failed to manage itself and has not worked as a team in performing its duties.

SCA’s governing documents clearly states the roles and duties of Directors and Officers. These guidelines are there to make sure the Board would
operate as a team.

To be able to manage an operation the size of SCA, each Director and Officer are assigned roles, duties and responsibilities.

Each Director is to keep their fellow Directors apprised of all issues and concerns so they each have a voice and vote on the issue. 

Yet, the current SCA Board failed to follow guidelines regarding which officer is responsible for the Audit Committee, Finance Committee,

annual budget and financial reporting leading to the resignation of the Board’s Treasurer.

Furthermore, all Directors were not informed of all committee issues and concerns by their liaisons and did not have access to all attorney communications.

Finally, the SCA Board has not clear in their communication to members, committees or among themselves.

 Here are a few examples:

To members:

a.  SCA Board told members there is no assessment increases for 2020. It is true members are paying the same quarterly assessments as in 2019, but in reality, it was a smoke and mirrors ploy

Why? 

Instead of returning the remaining 2018 Operating Fund surplus of

$320,114 to members in the fall of 2019, they decided to “prepay” a portion of the 2020 Capital Reserves.

That reduced the required 2020 Capital Reserve funding by $320,114

so they would not have to increase dues to cover the real negative Operating Budget.

In reality what we are paying in 2020 is what they did not refund to us $320,114 plus the quarterly dues.

That is a real increase in our actual dues!

b In 2016, the SCA Board approved a $27.50 (10%) increase in assessments effective January 1, 2017

The Board's rationale for this increase was that we needed to add additional

funds to SCA ‘s Capital Reserves after spending $2 million for the repairs to Liberty Center.

However, none of this increase went straight to Capital Reserves;  it has been used to fund Operations.

This is the main reason SCA has experienced annual surpluses every year beginning in 2017. 

The Board eventually transferred most of the surpluses to Capital Reserves from the Operating Fund in violation of IRS rules making the transfers taxable income

Once an association earmarks an assessment to a particular fund the
assessment cannot be used for any other purpose without becoming a taxable event.

To committees:

It appears the Finance Committee Liaisons did not communicate all of the issues and concerns brought up in the Finance Committee meetings with the full Board.

However, the Liaisons would report back to the Finance Committee that it was the determination of the Board for a particular action when not all of the Directors heard of the issue. 

This is what caused most of issues between the Board and Finance Committee..

Among Directors:

a.  Not all of the Liaisons reported committee issues and concerns to all Directors.

b.  Not all of the Directors received copies of all attorney communications

c.  Not all of the Directors knew of the requested change to the FC charter until they read the Board Book.

I bring the skills of a retired CPA with over 35 years senior executive and 15 years corporate board experience with multiple companies in different industries.

I am a team builder, an effective manager, and believe I can work well with the remaining SCA Board and most of the candidates running for the Board. 

I pledge to keep up the good work this Board has done, but not let the mundane duties slip through the cracks to protect SCA from IRS and NRS challenges in the future.

I hope this three part series of articles, will properly explain the positions I have taken, and the pledges I have made.

Thank you.

If you agree with me, I would appreciate your vote for:

Richard Pope – Ballot Position #3
_______________________

Now that She Asked...
Here are Some Examples
of
Candace Karrow
Breaking the Rules

Candace Karrow

by
 Forrest Quinn, MBA/CPA
Current Member and Former Treasurer
Sun City Anthem Board of Directors

On March 28, 2020, Sun City Anthem President, Candace Karrow, challenged a Board Candidate to provide examples where either she or Sun City Anthem didn’t follow the rules. 

Below, Candace’s comments are in red.

Candace Karrow

“This Association has always conformed with all state and federal laws and our governing documents … “

This is not a complete list, but here are some instances where SCA, while Candace was President, did not conform to state laws, to federal laws, or with SCA’s governing documents.

1. Candace interfered with 2018’s Audit Committee’s independence causing months of delay.

2. Board committee liaison positions are by Board appointment only. Ignoring the Board Policy Manual, evidently Candace assigned herself to be a liaison to the Finance Committee.

3A few months ago, the Nevada Real Estate Division (NRED) determined that our GM’s/COO’s employment contract is not considered confidential despite Candace’s claim otherwise.

4. During the 2020 Budget process which occurred in 2019, Candace eliminated SCA’s Treasurer position and assumed those duties

She ignored or “reinterpreted” the clear meaning of SCA’s Bylaws 4.4 

(The Treasurer shall have primary responsibility for preparing the Budget… and SCA Board Policy Manual section 4.7 (The Treasurer is authorized to… approve standards of financial reporting).

5As a result of Candace eliminating the Treasurer, SCA’s 2020 budget approved on September 26, 2019, did not comply with Nevada HOA law (NRS 116), and did not comply with SCA’s CC&Rs

Candace’s budget errors were so extensive and so amateurish, it would take many pages to explain them. 

(At the time, I notified the board of these many errors).

6Did anyone wonder why 2020’s budget needed to be passed twice

At October’s Board meeting, September’s error riddled budget was partially corrected and re-passed. 

 But this second version also did not comply with Nevada HOA law (NRS 116).

7. In November, SCA’s 2020 budget was sent to residents. This mailer misleads residents as to what SCA’s Board examined and adopted in 2020’s budget.

8Neither SCA’s 2020 budget, nor the 2020 assessment coupons clearly distinguished the assessments attributable to operating funds and reserve funds as required by law.

9Currently, SCA is improperly reporting reserve fund revenues.

10All Board members submit review information on a subject

Dismissing the fact that she is just one of seven Board votes, Candace unilaterally edits and removes other board member comments so the resulting document fits her narrative. 

While Candace allows herself to act individually to make edits, Candace requires that the other Board members need four Board votes to change her document.

11Without Board input or examination, Candace engages in secret communications with SCA’s attorney to develop legal positions that just so happen to coincide with Candace’s personal opinion.

12Candace wrote on 3/26

Give me one example of a Director that “did not have access to all attorney communications.” Each Director has the right to ask for any and all information available.

To address the issue in #11 above, on October 7, 2019, I emailed Candace and asked for all our attorney communications for the previous 60 days. 

I also asked to be copied on all future attorney communications. 

My request was ignored and I have never received the requested information.

Candace: 5. 

Not applying the Business-Judgment rule? 

The Business-Judgment rule is adhered to while doing our due diligence on every single issue before the Board, but especially while approving reserve projects. I am assuming that Mr. Pope thinks that 5 months of expert opinions, research and discussion by the Board was not enough on the paving project.

The flaw in Candace’s reasoning here is the old ‘Garbage-in, Garbage-out’ axiom. 

 I and other board members believe that at times our “experts” are coached towards a particular conclusion. 

Then Board members are pressured to vote for something because “it’s the expert’s opinion.”

In the case of the Anthem Center parking lot, the expert was limited to choosing between the asphalt remaining “as is” or to be replaced. 

There was no consideration (or bid) for asphalt crack repair. 

Furthermore, the Board Action Item (BAI) asking the Board to authorize the $920,000 asphalt replacement stated the asphalt was “cracked beyond repair.” 

The asphalt expert’s report did not make that claim.

From my Board perspective, Candace Karrow operates SCA as her private fiefdom.  

She routinely and brazenly violates the rules to suit her purposes. 

She has created a hostile and unwelcoming community by choosing to berate and defame residents rather than acknowledge her multitude of mistakes.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
To our readers:

In our memory this might be the first time in the history of Sun City Anthem governance that a SITTING MEMBER of a Board of Directors has come forward to tell a community:

A Board President, namely Candace Karrowis and has been, a menace to good governance to our community.

What conclusion can be drawn from the fact that one who has actually experienced firsthand actions considered inappropriate and detrimental of a community?

The answer is obvious:

Dump Her - Funny Advice to Ditch That Girl - Dump - Sticker ...

..and replace her with competence by voting for:

2-3-4

Nelson Orth  (2)
Richard Pope  (3)
Stephen Anderson  (4)

Got a comment?

Send it to us at:
scaopinions@gmail.com



From Marcia Kosterka...to...Anthem Opinions

Kudos to Forrest Quinn for displaying the courage, fortitude and integrity to unmask the sheer unadulterated arrogance, the lies and illegal methodology Candace Karrow has employed throughout her “reign” as self-proclaimed queen of her “kingdom” known as Sun City Anthem.

It certainly did NOT start with Karrow’s reign as all one has to do is look at the former directors who endorse her on that controversial postcard sent to all homeowners promoting three out of four of THEIR candidates with the same mindset as hers, to see that the reign of terror may continue if she is re-elected.

This continued evil mindset is akin to our community suffering from our own type of Coronavirus which has to be eradicated once and for all.

The homeowners “vaccine” will be at the ballot box and rid this community of this type of corruption and stench and to make sure the new board has a majority of directors who will be honest, display kindness, respect and humility towards every homeowner in our community.

  1. From Buddy Greenfield...to...Anthem Opinions

    Forrest Quinn's article, in my opinion, must now seal the fate of Candace Karrow.

    She must not be reelected.

    Remember that Forrest has one more year as a director.

    If Candace Karrow is elected, just think of the tension and mistrust of those two at executive session board meetings.

    There will never be harmony or any sense of cooperation between those two.

    And who will be the most affected?

    The new board members and the community.

    It is imperative that the new board have the opportunity to work together to make this association a more viable and functional group of directors.

    Quinn and Karrow are to SCA, as the USA was to Saddam Hussein.
____________________



With Social Security
You Got  a +1.6% Increase in 2020
Look What Top Sun City Anthem Management Got !

LED Dollar Signs Mask (10 Colors) – LED Mask Collection


Top Management Incomes:  2018 vs 2019

Chief Executive Officer    
 $250,000  to   $270,530    (+8.2% )

Chief Financial Officer
 $189,162 to  $180,000 *

*+  (in 2018) Additional financial costs included A Senior Staff Accountant $70,012, an Accounting Specialist $48,687 and a Payroll HR Coordinator $52,850 who reported to the Chief Financial Officer.

Community Association Manager
 $94,998  to  $105,000   (+10.5%)

Activities Director
 $70,000  to  $75,000      (+7.2%)

Facilities Director
 $153,375  to  $163,909   (+6.7%)

No 2019 incomes available for these; however, other incomes in 2018:

 Web Administrator
 $61,350

Community Standards Manager
$76,687

Community Standards Administrator 
$55,052

An Executive Coordinator reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (then referred to as the General Manager)
 $53,170

Total 2019 incomes plus incomes available from 2018 to be paid in 2020:

$1, 212,247

And we didn't even mention the other approximate 65-70  Sun City Anthem Employees !


or

The Group Life, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Dental and Medical Insurance + the 401(k) Plan which matches employer contributions at 100% of the first 3% of pay...and...VESTS all EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTIONS 100% Immediately !

Now...let's add the "proposed" 1ST YEAR estimated cost of a self-managed restaurant that has no statistical basis for accuracy ....

...being considered at a time when our city, country, and community are in the midst of the greatest economic unknown in history, that would add a minimum UNSUBSTANTIATED first year cost of....


$300,000

...the numbers freely accepted by Candace KarrowWendy Linow, and Paul Perstein....a.k.a.  


THE


Machine - word association by Daniel Eden on Dribbble

...and each property owner should ask themselves:

Is this really the time to consider any such idea in addition to bearing these increased payroll costs?

Do these facts and proposed expenditures represent fiscal responsibility?

Are we getting "bang for our buck"?

If  these 3 candidates be elected to the Sun City Anthem Board, these issues matter little.   

Let's not forget that one of them, Wendy Linow, declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2017.  

Now she's asking us to trust her with governing $8 million per year of YOUR money.
3 Blind Mice GIF - BlindMice ThreeBlindMice 3BlindMice - Discover ...

Say NO

 to

Candace Karrow
Wendy Linow
Paul Perlstein

Which 3 do care and will look closely at the dollars before they are spent?

Nelson Orth   (2)
Richard Pope (3)
Stephen Anderson  (4)

We urge you to vote:

2-3-4

From Tony Orzada...to...Anthem Opinions

Good Morning Dick,

Just read your latest in which you spell out the salaries of our “executive “ staff.Given our current living conditions under the coronavirus.

Stay home,

All Sun City activities unavailable due to all buildings closed, begs the question:

What are Sandy, Bing, & the rest of the gang doing to earn their keep?

It seems to me that all are overpaid in the best of times when they are busting their butt to keep Sun City running like a clock (its not ), but the point is, how do they justify their inflated salaries when we are all  in LOCK DOWN ?

it seems to me that the Board  of Directors should bite the bullet & impose an across the board temporary salary cut back until such time that we are all past this nightmare like many viable enterprises, or as an alternative, reduce the HOA Dues we are all paying for NOTHING.

Keep on fighting the Machine & stay healthy.
____________________

Anthem Opinions received a summary of an email sent to the Sun City Anthem Board on March 17, 2020 by Board candidate, Nelson Orth.

He has asked us to share it with the community as preparations are being made to compose a new more properly detailed survey with regard to the association restaurant matter.


Sun City Anthem Board Candidate
Nelson Orth
Presents Alternative Restaurant Idea

Nelson Orth
Ballot Position # 2

During the "Meet and Greet" period after the candidates debate on March 8, 2020, a gentleman came to my table and asked if he could ask me a question. 

I said "of course". 


He asked me if I had ever considered using the SCA restaurant space to implement something equivalent to what our neighbor, Anthem Country Club, has done for its residents.


I was somewhat taken back by his question because I had never considered such a scenario. 


I told him I had not, but I would look into such a possibility. 


As an aside, I would hope that one day I would be able to give this gentleman his due recognition.


I have a number of friends who live in Anthem Country Club, and over the past few days I have talked to them about how the community's restaurant operates, and the cost to its members.

The first bit of information I received intrigued me. 

Anthem Country Club members who are permitted to eat in their restaurant must belong to their "Social Club" (I believe that is the name of this organization). 


Image result for a club ?

No money ever exchanges hands
Image result for no cash please
One must present their card to enter their restaurant, and all charges are entered into their account. 

Image result for membership card


Members are then billed monthly.  


The monthly social dues, which include the use of the fitness center in Anthem Country Club, costs a household of two, $230/month. 


Then, in addition, there is a quarterly minimum of $250 for food in the restaurant


I was not able to determine the total number of members in this club.  

For the past several years Anthem Country Club was experiencing many of the same problems that SCA has experienced. They then hired The Arnold Palmer Group, and they have been very successful in creating financial stability.

Image result for arnold palmer group logo
I understand that the information I have provided to you is minimal, but if this option would ever be considered, significant additional research would have to be done. 

I believe this option has some merits. 


First and foremost, is that it gives both those who want a restaurant, and those who oppose a restaurant, a compromise.


For those who want a restaurant, are they willing to pay whatever monthly costs are determined by the board? 


For those opposed to the restaurant, then they have no financial liability for the restaurant, and cannot use the restaurant. 


Any future board, will never be able to please everyone, but does this present an additional option to be included in any survey?


- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
We at Anthem Opinions, believe such a consideration has merit to solve the dilemma that currently exists in our community, and we commend him for "thinking outside the box" in his attempt to bring unification to a community so divided on this issue.

We thought about Mr. Orth's suggestion and did some "math" to see if such an idea was feasible...

... and it was !

Why, because such a club would require only 300 members if a quarterly cost of $250 was assessed each "club member"...

...assuming the original budgeted amount of $300,000 was accurate, which we question its accuracy.

Any deficit, would have to be assessed each club member to keep it a viable "club". Any surplus would reduce future club dues.

The issue of initial reconstruction of the space would have to be addressed; however, a select smaller group would also create a smaller area to be utilized, leaving unused space available to residents for other purposes.

Could this solve the problem? Is it a compromise that should be considered?

It is the best way to ask those who want a restaurant to "put their money where their mouth is", yet not obligate the others in the community who oppose it and would likely never patronize it ?

Mr. Orth, in our opinion, represents an individual who looks at issues from both sides, and as such, appears to be the right type of person who would best serve the wishes of the people.

We thank you Nelson, and with that in mind, we believe this individual deserves to hold a position on the Sun City Anthem Board of Directors.

He is Ballot Position # 2 .

We would like your comment on this suggestion and ask your opinion if such an option should be studied and included in any survey that might be developed that will be sent to owners after it is properly prepared.

Does Mr. Orth's idea have merit?

Let us know.

Send your comments to:


scaopinions@gmail.com

















  • From Marty Winger...to...Anthem Opinions

    Thank you, Nelson Orth, for this morning’s new option for a restaurant.

    It separates those that want a restaurant, and those few that do.  It permits those that do the privilege of paying for them to enjoy.

    Surely not unlike joining a club here in Anthem.

    It also unburdens those who couldn’t care less about a restaurant here in Anthem.

    As I once asked:

    How much per square foot do the people who expect everyone else to pay for their folly?

    What is “the breakout” for a profit, no matter how small To keep increasing costs down?

    All of the cost associated with having a restaurant (again) would fall on the privileged folks that are willing to say, “this is mine, and I pay for it!”

    So much more to consider regarding this idea, but suffice it to say, “what a wonderful idea.”


  • Anhem OpinionsApril 6, 2020 at 10:15 AM
    Marty, it made a lot of sense to us as well.

    Think about it ?

    If proponents can't get at least 300 individuals out of a population of about 11,000 to 13,000 in 7,144 homes (only 4% of all homes in the community) to commit to any expenditure, what does that say?

    It says to us is what was said by Director Rana Goodman in a restaurant work shop when candidate Wendy Linow blurted out "Who wants a restaurant?"

    When Goodman responded "Who wants to pay for it?" the hands dropped substantially in the audience.

    What I think should be done BEFORE any detailed survey, is for the Board to send out a statement asking for a SIGNED commitment of $1,000 per year (using Nelson's Anthem Country Club numbers) in addition to their regular quarterly assessments), also stating that any profit would reduce future "club dues" or any loss, would increase it.

    In addition, as a token of good faith, the association might even kick in a few bucks toward equipment, utensils, and linens that would be OWNED by the association, and provided "rent free" to the social club, along with a small space to operate.

    However any equipment repairs or laundered linens would be the responsibility of the respective social club along with accounting fees, employee payroll and benefits associated with it.The 300 number @ $1,000 per home represents THE $300,000 COMMITMENT REQUIRED for initial investment as stated in the original Board presentation; the number that was originally "sold" to the community, and considered accurate by  Board members Arthur Scheutz, James Coleman, David Weil, along with Board President Candace Karrow (running for reelection), and further endorsed by Paul Perstein and Wendy Lenow as to its accuracy.

    Actually, think about it.....if they couldn't get even 300 "hot shots" to make any financial commitment that would cover the costs, even providing them a private club to do so, what does that say about the possibility of anything other than committing association financial suicide?

    It merely says, if you want it, then pay for it, and if you don't, it's all theirs  to subsidize.I think many of us "peasants" would gladly go elsewhere, and would bow to them for PAYING THE FULL BOAT.

    We could even give them a plaque with their members name engraved as well !
    ___________________________

    Where Do You Come Up
    with
    $ 1 per week ?

    United States one-dollar bill - Wikipedia

    I've seen some "sales jobs" before, but never like the one used lately for a "property owner pay all" restaurant disguised as "self-management".

    When I see those words I think of some others that remind me of a similar "play on words":



    ...that was one of the best to describe a...

    Petition · Say NO to a 29% property tax increase in Berlin ...

    Well now, the same applies here, "self-management" in this case means:

    PAY FOREVER
     for something
     FEW will USE !

    These con artists will do anything to get a restaurant that will likely sink like the Titanic within a very short period of time...

    ...just like the last 5 did...

    ...only this time MAKING YOU PAY FOR THE LOSSES, so a few people can take advantage of the overwhelming majority of property owners who will never spend a dime there.

    We can go over this catastrophe again and again, but no matter what ruse is used, I would love to have one solid ECONOMIC reason as to why any of them believe watching another loser appear, would make our homes appreciate in value, or only cost a buck a week.

    That buck in no way considered the many expenses of a restaurants and the additional liability YOU and I must bear to have one...

    ...something DELIBERATELY AVOIDED...

    ...something typical of THE MACHINE.

    According to the previous survey taken 2 years ago, keep in mind that no mention was ever made of a "property owner pay-all" deal, was it?

    But now, knowing that any private tenant wouldn't touch us with a ten foot pole, people like candidates Paul PerlsteinWendy Linow, and Candace Karrow actually want you to believe "they have the answers"...

    ...answers to what?

    How to dump money down the drain for the sake of an ego trip they believe you should finance ????

    How to fleece a community?

    How to insult the words "common sense"?

    Well, Nelson Orth brought out an idea that was FAIR and equitable and allows them to eat to their heart's content...

    ...IF THEY PAY FOR IT THEMSELVES !

    He used a real life example of a community that went that route, Anthem Country Club, that charges their "restaurant advocates" a thousand bucks a year to enjoy it....

    ...and that's a lot more than a buck a week !

    Now the latest to jump into the fray is an old timer named Ron Johnson who writes a blog every three or four months to kill his monotony.

    Old Ron has always wanted a restaurant and this was his way of trying to get one...by endorsing MACHINE candidates who will give it to him.

    As to credibility, Old Ron, a few years ago, attended a Lifestyle Committee meeting when the old bocce courts that were unfinished when the Liberty Center was accepted on the "as is" basis at the expert decision of former Association President Roz Berman...

    ...you remember her, the blogger's wife, she was eventually DISPLACED as the association president due to her incompetence !!!

    Well, Old Ron wanted to make those bocce courts converted to croquet...

    Queen of Hearts Preparing to Strike Her Hedgehog Animation Drawing ...

    ...a proposal that went the way of David "Bermie's" min-golf course in the 115 degree heat...that he tried to peddle to a community saying it was a freebie  (but actually have would removed funds from association reserves).

    It was nothing more than a con job advocated by another con artist who lost a law license due to another attempt to con a court with a forged signature of a Massachusetts judge.

    Wake up, Sun City Anthem, before the likes of these individuals run your association finances into oblivion.


    ..and at the ballot box tell them to...

    KISS OUR BUCKS !

    We urge you not to allow this losing saga to continue by electing WATCH DOGS...people who want you to know WHAT'S WHAT before they commit YOUR MONEY to more frivolous spending...

    ...and those WATCH DOGS include:

    Nelson Orth (2)
    Richard Pope (3)
    Stephen Anderson (4)

    2-3-4

    We want to bring to your attention  a statement by an individual named Arnold Hinden on the Berman blog, a statement that was perhaps the most outrageous statement ever made on that publication...

    ...a statement that if EVER A SUCH STATEMENT would be made on Anthem Opinions, would be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED, and that individual's subscription IMMEDIATELY TERMINATED..

    This disgusting individual, in his hatred filled mind, is now considering the suggestions of a possible restaurant social club as...

    RACIST

    Read this, weep, and look at the true definition of hate, asking yourself if such an individual should be considered a "friend of Sun City Anthem" or a DETRIMENT to it.

    "Dear David and Wendy;

    As I started to read the letter from Arendt and Orth my blood started to boil.

    I immediately had visions of racist connotations. "private social club."

    When do the signs go up "No Dogs and Jews allowed" No African Americans. No Asians need not apply.

    I grew up seeing these things. Their true color has finally come to the surface and I am not happy at what I see.

    In fact, it worries me. With this kind of thinking what type of person is running for our board?

    This is my Homeowners association how dare you want to open a private club.

    It’s not coming to where I live
    !"  

    Is this the fist time LOSERS use such words?

    Unfortunately NOT....and in all cases they appear on the Berman blog.

    A few years ago Anthem Opinions questioned  naming James Coleman for a position on the Sun City Anthem Board, stating that he, prior to his being APPOINTED, not elected, had never in his 17 years of residency, EVER attended a Board meeting.  

    Bringing that to the attention of our readers, I included that he was the President of the African American Club....accidentally, and I stress the word, accidentally, omitting the word "Culture" from the name.

    That somehow caused Coleman to state on the Berman blog that such omission OUTRAGED the entire Black members of the Sun City Anthem community..

    ...ONE word omission...just one.

    That in turn caused David Berman and his wife to confront me at Green Valley Ranch and eventually the incident report I filed with the Henderson Police Department was filed; however, as he and his wife left the casino in a FIT OF RAGE, he loudly called me both a RACIST and Anti-Semitic.

    For both their DISTORTED minds, let me say that my wife is Jewish and we have been together for 35 years.

    While in college, I was Vice-President and Pledge Chairman of Sigma Alpha Mu, a predominantly Jewish fraternity.

    Many of my closest friends in the Sun City Anthem community are Jewish, including my blog partner, Allen Weintraub, whom I have known for over 50 years, as well as, those of the Asian Community.

    In addition, over the years, my experience with many members of the Entertainment industry, I have invited a number of Black individuals to my home as GUESTS, not employees.

    So, to both Berman and his latest henchman, Arnold Hinden, both of you should be ashamed of introducing such hatred and RACIAL tones to a community that have NEVER BEFORE, EVER entered the picture, until BOTH OF YOU, and JAMES COLEMAN, made some kind of SICK decision to do so...

    ...for the sake of a homeowners association election!

    As far as referring to Nelson Orth in the same condemnation, MR. Orth, as a retired Naval Commander and member of the Johns Hopkins University management team, WAS NEVER referred to in his distinguished careers in the disgusting manner he has referred to by Arnold Hinden....and allowed by David Berman.

    And on Good Friday ?

    Shame on you, and I hope this community will look closely at this in the manner you both deserve after this latest hateful act. 

    Sun City Anthem, wake up...this is what WE MUST NOT ALLOW to exist in our community

    It is people like this who BRING ALL OF US DOWN, and must be thoroughly rejected.


    1. His comments appear to validate the idiom: "Life is like a cesspool-(you-know-what) sinks to its own level"

    1. From Peter Brown...to...Anthem Opinions

      Dick,

      Agree! Hinden is a joke and incapable of rational thought.

      Likely another “puppet” for the sad little man.

      I am glad I don’t visit that blog anymore.

      It is disgusting to attack you and Nelson on this basis when they have no ideas or the capacity to think or engage intellectually when they bring in the “race” card.

      This further underscores what the sad little man is all about.

      The sad thing is there are likely many in this community who either accept this as truth,  or think the same way. 
    2. Thanks Peter,

      The SICKEST aspect is that this was actually allowed to be posted on the Berman blog.

      I noticed that the comment was written on April 9th at 7:40pm, leaving little if any doubt that DAVID BERMAN approved of such disturbing commentary.

      As of this writing, it STILL REMAINS.

      Now people have the opportunity to see just how DESTRUCTIVE these "insects" can harm our community.
    3. From Buddy Greenfield...to...Anthem Opinions

      We have many clubs in SCA with titles that someone with a small mind might consider restrictive, but this is NOT the case.

      Italian American Club has non- Italians.

      Havurah has non-Jews;

      Filipina has other ethnic members, etc etc.

      In fact, who is to say that everybody who belongs to the Ballroom Dance Club is  actually light on their feet?

      The point is, having a social club for dining out purposes is actually less restrictive than the titles of many of our existing clubs would indicate.

      All you have to do is want to and be willing to eat and pay your dues.

      All the other clubs charge dues as well.

      Maybe they’re discriminating against people who don’t have money by charging to be a member?

      All the Clubs in SCA are “private” and can only be joined by residents and tenants who pay the annual club dues and adhere to club rules.

      Are they all discriminatory? 
    4. Good point, Buddy.

      Perhaps someone should send a notice to all HOAs in the valley are RACIST if they utilize a restaurant as a Social Club.

      Nelson, if you're out there, MAKE SURE YOU MENTION that TO members of Anthem Community Council and Anthem Country Club that a Sun City Anthem resident named Arnold Hinden and a blogger named David Berman consider their club as being invested with RACISTS.
    1. From Bll B. to Anthem Opinions

      The true racist has finally surfaced, and it's not here.

    1. Isn't it ironic when another blogger refers to the owner of Anthem Opinions as a "low brow" when his readership is substantially less than that of Anthem Opinions?

      Of course his record includes endorsing one who introduced racism to our community...

      ...allows others to pollute our community by granting them acceptance in doing the same

      ...ranting and raving the same ugly words by spewing racist comments in a public setting

      and...

      ...recommending that a community elect one individual who declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy to guide it's financial future

      ...in addition to another one who insults members of the community with specific attention to the Asian population, and in addition, has the ability to create such an adverse atmosphere, that 6 of 7 members of the association Finance Committee resign !

      Who follows that advice?

      Those who are of the same character.
    ________________________


    Sun City Anthem Board Candidate
    Nelson Orth
    Responds to Berman & Linow Criticism
    of
    "Social ClubRestaurant Idea
    CANDIDATE Stamp Sign Text Word Logo Red. Stock Photo, Picture And ...
    response Logo | Free Logo Design Tool from Flaming Text
    I have read Mr. Berman's and Ms. Linow's comments, taken hours to contemplate my options, and have decided to respond as follows:

    My response is not to respond.

    Let me explain why that is the case.

    At the beginning of this campaign, I vowed to myself not to attack any other candidate unless  an attack on me was so egregious that it demanded a response.

    Fortunately that situation has never occurred.

    The closest I came to an  attack was to recommend that Art Schuetz be recalled as the SCA representative to the Anthem Community Council (ACC).

    My campaign has centered around three items - my opposition to a self-managed restaurant, a reset of the relationship between SCA and the ACC, and my pledge to always vote in the best interests of the homeowners.

    This current board has, in my opinion, become dysfunctional, and the new board must reverse this trend.

    The new board must solve the following:

    The dispute between the old board and Pinnacle Village.

    The dispute between the old board and the Finance Committee.

    The internal public disputes between board members, and the divisive issue of whether or not a self-managed restaurant should be implemented.


    It is possible that both Ms. Linow and I will be elected to the new board, and the last thing the new board needs is another dispute between board members.

    If, during this campaign, I had a major dispute with Ms. Linow, I would have emailed her, outlined my disagreement, and asked for her input/rebuttal, and then posted both responses.

    That would then have allowed both opinions to have been posted simultaneously, and the readers/homeowners would then have the opportunity to comment.

    If we were both elected, then we would have the opportunity to discuss our differences behind closed doors. The new board must find a way to solve problems in a cordial, cooperative way.

    I have pledged to every SCA homeowner that every vote I cast will be in the best interests of the homeowners.

    If elected, and if I find myself in the minority, I will, before the vote, explain my position to the homeowners, and vote against the resolution.

    But after all votes are cast, I will support the majority, both internally and externally,without reservation.

    And if I find myself in the majority, then I would expect my fellow directors to follow the same behavior as I would if I were in the minority.

    When this new board assumes control, the effects of the virus will still be with us. Hence this new board MUST find a way to work together, and solve both the problems that will be left from the old board, and the new issues that await.

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

    Anthem Opinions considers this response perhaps one of the most professional ever expressed by any candidate.

    However, in Anthem Opinion's critique, the possible illegalities expressed by Berman and Linow are hypocritical.

    Why do we make that statement?

    First and foremost,  neither are attorneys, and as a result, both are MERE opinions.

    Second, when one considers how many times THE MACHINE which both are and always been, an active part of this community for years, have committed acts that far exceed the limits of legality due to utilizing an association attorney to tell them what they want to hear, the perfect example of which was the removal of former Board member, Nona Tobin, without following NRS 116 law regarding the RIGHT TO APPEAL before the Nevada Real Estate Division...

    ...a shameful act toward an individual whom THE PEOPLE elected to represent them...and whom I believe, received one of the highest vote count, if not the highest.

    Mr. Orth is unlike a MACHINE follower who looks at decisions as "that's the way it's always been done". 

    This should be unacceptable to any resident when one considers that attitude has FINANCIALLY contributed to the failures of each and every restaurant that ever existed in the Sun City Anthem community.

    Mr. Orth "thinks outside the box" to make a community a better place...a GOOD THING...and as a result of that attitude, is more than deserving of the opportunity to serve our community as a member of its Board of Directors in the next two years.

    We urge all owners to merely "give change a chance"....and elect an individual who, for years has shown his devotion to a community with his active investigations of Anthem Community Council.

    That man is Nelson Orth...and he's Ballot Position #2.

    Got a comment?

    Send it to us at:


    scaopinions@gmail.com


    It certainly didn't take long for the Berman "machine" to look at the comments displayed by Mr. Orth in a negative manner.

    This is to be expected when a corrupt system to which he has been an active part of for years, is at stake with close observation and examination, and in all likelihood, if removed from machine control, will look at the past to change its direction, not prolong it.

    What is the Berman MACHINE rejecting now?

    A positive idea as an alternative to the past restaurant disasters that have taken place each and every time he and "his machine" have had control of the Sun City Anthem Board.

    What has he and his chosen past "machine" leadership given Sun City Anthem for the past 10 years since his MACHINE began its control?

    A restaurant tenant who robbed 8 Las Vegas banks and served six years in a Colorado federal penitentiary...

    ... an individual caught stealing SCA equipment...

    ...a TV chef that now runs a sandwich shop...

    ...a tenant that was unable to pay little of anything and granted $40,000 of unsecured association loans that defaulted...

    and ...

    a recent attempt an an arrangement, whose chief financier had a history of bankruptcy.

    And with that record of disaster, the MACHINE's only solution remaining is to use YOUR MONEY through an association pay-all restaurant...

    ...asking a community to elect an individual, Wendy Linow, who declared a personal bankruptcy only two and a half years ago...

    ...a Chapter 7 bankruptcy...

    ...a bankruptcy with the ultimate result of removing all personal spending habits from responsibility, and thrusting them on the shoulders of those who believed her to be a responsible individual...

    ...and now....

    ....a short time later, expects a community to believe such an individual is the right person to have a voice in its spending between $8-$9 million dollars of dues revenue EACH YEAR.

    Let's hope that another gigantic mistake is not allowed to take place by electing her along with current President Candace Karrow, whose record of...

    ...insulting individual community residents, especially among our Asian Community,..

    ....whose behavior resulted in 6 of 7 members of the Finance Committee to resign...

    ...and...

    ...purposely withholding information from homeowners in the case of a C.O.O. contract which she KNOWINGLY LIED, stating it was confidential, when the Nevada Real Estate Division ruled it was not...

    ....yet despite that ruling, STILL will not publish it, allowing the homeowners the RIGHT to know what she and her MACHINE have committed all owners to for years to come.

    That is what the MACHINE brings to the 2020 election......that, and the support from an individual whose past is every bit the example of condoning such unsavory behavior.

    Mr. Orth and Mr. Pope have demonstrated these such actions NEED close examination, not acceptance, and as such, any individual knows that good ideas can go forward if structured in a manner in which fairness is accomplished.

    Neither have a past that would indicate their leadership would negatively affect Sun City Anthem, while the Berman MACHINE has a closet filled with them.

    Orth and Pope (Ballot Positions 2 & 3) represent an an attitude referred to as:"Where There's a Will, There's a Way"...

    ...an attitude bureaucrats reject when their personal interests are at stake, no matter how adversely others are affected by their selfish decisions.

    Give Change a Chance !

    1. From Marcia Kosterka...to...Anthem Opinions

      While we all very worried about the Corona virus pandemic and trying to protect ourselves, the homeowners here in Sun City Anthem are also faced with another election to determine which candidates should be elected to the next board of directors.

      What do the following adjectives all have in common?

      1.   Corrupt
      2.   Arrogant
      3.   Rude
      4.   Nasty
      5.   Self-importance
      6.   Dismissive
      7.   Greed

      These adjectives all describe the majority of previous and present people who have served as board members in our community.

      The results have been disastrous and homeowners in our community have been disenfranchised.

      I distinctly remember when a recent past president displayed all the above characteristics and another homeowner and myself confronted him after a board meeting outside of Anthem Center asking him how he could treat homeowners with such disdain.

      He stopped and glared at us briefly and a smirk developed on his face and said, “BECAUSE I CAN” and walked off.

      There are three candidates who are presently running for the board, whom have demonstrated honesty, integrity, intelligence, humility, and the capacity to listen to concerns of the people they would represent if elected.

      Furthermore, they clearly understand that many things must be changed if elected including the composition of the standing committees and flawed decisions made.

      The only way homeowners will have a voice in governance and be respected is to elect Nelson Orth, Richard Pope, and Stephen Anderson.

      Numbers 2, 3 and 4!
    1. From Robert Latchford...to...Anthem Opinions

      Grateful we should be for Anthem Opinions especially in these days of near incarceration when contact with our neighbors is somewhat limited as our presence in common areas is verboten.

      However, this publication is great for reminding members who have not as yet voted, hopefully to revamp our current BOD to a more efficient and dues payor friendly group.

      While it is easy to leave your ballot in your desk with weeks until the deadline, the parking lot is allegedly resurfaced and ballot boxes are available at convenient locations, so with a field of qualified candidates, it would be foolish to overlook their willingness to serve us.

      The trio of Orth, Pope and Anderson seem to have not only the backgrounds, but the desire, to put their time and effort to give to SCA the benefit of using their knowledge to give us more bang for our buck.

      Mr. Orth has already brought to our attention to the fact that the we are virtually having our pockets picked by the Anthem Community Council (ACC) by playing watchdog at their meetings.

      We have 2 members at the Anthem Community Council  meetings but hear not a word of what the $633,000 annual UNITEMIZED bill sent to us (Rana Goodman noticed that a $158,000 payment was for a quarterly assessment,  not annual.

      Nelson Orth also is checking the feasibility of a Members Only restaurant paid for by interested homeowners at their expense, as is done in Anthem Country Club, not something I would favor at a glance but worth investigation as a possible solution to fill the empty space and provide a local trough for those who are willing to spend their money, but not put  funds on the line.

      Richard Pope and Stephen Anderson,, both with excellent credentials in their respective fields, would prove assets to bring their experience to use on the board.

      Mr Pope, with a lengthy career in accounting, could provide excellent input in various financial issues, as he has already eludes to in recent letters on Anthem Opinions.

      The other candidates include 2 women;,one currently seated, who refuse to make themselves available to the membership and someone whose opinions made publicly, fail to  have provided much more than “HoHum”.

      We need better.
    ______________


    The Berman Game

    A  New Version 
    of
    Scrabble

    9 Subtle Lies We All Tell Ourselves | Mark Manson

    I really dislike referring to another blog giving it some kind of attention, but lately during election season, when another one "blows such smoke" in attempting to have his readers vote for THE MACHINE, in certain circumstances, Anthem Opinions is forced to do so...

    ...and this is one of those times.

    Within the past few days, his obvious desperation and concern for his beloved MACHINE has stopped at nothing to get themselves elected, the latest involving the...
    So, You're Tired of Me Playing the Race Card? - Drillbitnews.com ...
    Some guy named Arnold Hinden actually stated his belief that Nelson Orth and I were racists for even considering a restaurant option that involved a "Restaurant Social Club", and of course, due to it being intended to harm a Board Candidate he obviously opposed, conveyed that disgusting comment on David's Anthem Journal...

    ...and worse, David Berman, published it, and allows it to PROUDLY remain

    That crossed a line as somehow Berman and company must believe that any HOA in the valley who has such an arrangement for its residents, is literally "infested" with racists.

    This was not the first time that the "R-card" was utilized by him.  

    After all, that's him...

    ...a person who has no sense of  morality and will introduce a despicable accusation to a community that for years has always seemed to be "color blind"...

    ...just further proof that such an individual's poison pen has always been toxic to so many in  Sun City Anthem.

    Well so much for that insult to our community.

    But...his latest is this one pertaining to an email sent to property owners by Anthem Opinions regarding the Board election, to which his usual distortions once again appeared as follows:

    "I feel the need to tell you this because I have heard from a number of readers who were offended to receive an unsolicited email from Mr. Arendt, supporting three candidates including Steve Anderson and once again attacking candidate Wendy Linow because the death of her husband contributed to her reluctantly filing for bankrupcy upon the advice of her attorney."

    Let's start with 'poor" Wendy Linow.

    Her "crying towel" is filled with crocodile tears that leave little excuse for the bottom line...

    ...CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY only two and half years ago.

    Medical bills as an excuse?

    Medicare likely paid them, and a RESPONSIBLE individual would have purchased a Medicare supplement.  Did she?

    There's another "phenomenon" responsible people carry for emergencies:

    Different Types of Life Insurance Policies - How Much Do You Need?

    And we won't even ask if her late husband's replacement assisted "poor Wendy" in any way !

    And let's not forget how "kind" and "compassionate" she was toward current Board Secretary, Rana Goodman, a year ago when she wrote on Nextdoor:

    "What Rana Goodman did on guardianship was admirable but it does not qualify her to be on the board".

    Really?

    Rana was President of Whitney Ranch for 6 years, had established a website to assist HOA owners who need assistance in navigating NRS 116 for 7 years, found time to be active in the Vegas Voice...

    and...believe it or not, didn't declare CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY either !

    Instead Berman and Company along with his MACHINE  (that included Linow) RIPPED her apart at every opportunity.

    ...yet when all was said and done, Goodman was the #1 VOTE GETTER in the election, wasn't she ?

    Some might call this information an "attack"...

    ...we call it PROPER DISCLOSURE to an unsuspecting community to look at the "real person" who is asking to govern $8-$9 million of annual revenue...

    ...so call it what you may, but to all you, we suggest you call it CAUTION !

    Now let's get to the MACHINE post card sent to the entire community...

    ...the one WE ALSO PUBLISHED !

    Of course we never saw Berman or any of his cadre of buffoons object to that mass post card mailing to the entire community on behalf of his MACHINE, did we?  

    How many of them asked to receive that advertisement?

    NONE...but that seems to be acceptable to Mr. Machine and his loonies, doesn't it?

    But when others consider a similar option?  

    Well, that's "offensive".  

    That's the style of bureaucrats...

    ...persons who fit this definition to a tee"

    Hope for Hypocrites

    Let's look at the email that was sent and the results as to how "a number of readers were offended"...

    ...an email Berman doesn't have the guts to publish...yet criticizes as "offending" some of his bureaucrats:

    Regarding the Recent Post Card Sent to Sun City Anthem Residents Regarding the 2020 Board of Directors Election

    Have you voted in the 2020 Sun City Anthem election?

    As a resident of the Sun City Anthem Community, we feel it necessary to inform you of "the other side of the story" before you cast a ballot in the 2020 Sun City Anthem Board election, a ballot sent to you a few days ago.

    As a 15 year resident of this community, those who are being endorsed by the former Sun City Anthem Directors, have a track record we believe you should be aware of before you cast a ballot, the latest endorsement being one individual (Wendy Linow) that in 2017 declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

    These 11 members of  former Sun City Anthem Boards have been responsible for the following over that time frame.

    a. 5 Failed restaurants...even accepting a bank robber and his wife as one of them and another who was caught walking out the back door with Sun City Anthem equipment.


    b. A Liberty Center accepted on an "as is" basis....costing residents thousands of dollars resulting from a failure to properly and professionally examine the building prior to acceptance.


    c. An IRS settlement costing us $100,000 plus accounting and legal fees due to filing an incorrect income Tax return.


    d. Withholding the contents of a C.O.O. contract not deemed to be confidential by the Nevada Real Estate Division,a document still not available on an official SCA website, yet threatening possible criminal punishment to anyone disclosing it, a document that contains provisions that will commit SCA owners to conditions they must be made aware of due to its financial commitments and consequences.


    e. Citing hundreds or residents for the most ridiculous reasons as to how homes were decorated.


    f. Being elected to the HOA Hall of Shame on Channel 13 on TWO occasions. 

     If this record of achievement is acceptable to you, cast your vote for those they recommended.

    If not, please consider those who do wish to bring our wonderful community the proper governance it has deserved and is long overdue.

    Those individuals include: Nelson Orth, Richard Pope, and Stephen Anderson.

    They are numbers 2-3-4 on your ballot.

    Thank you for listening.
    Dick Arendt
    15 year resident of Sun City Anthem
    Anthem Opinions

    - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


    We sent the above email to hundreds in Sun City Anthem. That's our right, just as it was the MACHINE...

    ...but ours went a bit further...

    We brought out specifics as to what the postcard failed to do, other than say "vote for them".

    We told you THEIR COMPOSITE RECORDS...

    ...in order for owners to make a decision based on facts !

    ...and despite the blowhard brigade being "offended", none have said any of the points summarized were untrue !

    Want to know how many were "offended" enough to ask we remove them from our mailing list?

    6

    So to those six of "them"  who were "offended", as per their request, they were removed from our list.

    As to why they might have been "offended"?

    Perhaps they likely read it, looked in the mirror, and came to the conclusion...

    The Truth Hurts 2 - Funny Phrases - Sticker | TeePublic

    and

    Sally Fernandez on Twitter: "The truth sounds like hate to those ...

    While hundreds believed...

    Yes the truth hurts! #MrNoFilters #realtalk #realstory #Ma… | Flickr

    Be Smart Sun City Anthem !

    Are these individuals representative of YOU?

    God help us if they are !

    We urge you to REJECT such individuals and vote:


    2-3-4

    Nelson Orth  (2)
    Richard Pope  (3)
    Stephen Anderson  (4)

    Now we have a few question for you, our readers:

    1. Was anything in the email untrue?
    2. is it of any concern that a candidate running for the Sun City Anthem Board has a recent record of Chapter 7 bankruptcy or why she refused to disclose it on her campaign flyer?
    3. Was the email offensive in any way?

    Send your comments to:

    scaopinions@gmail.com 


    From Favil West...to...Anthem Opinions

    I can see only one question and one answer to the question of Wendy Lenow.

    Would any corporate board elect a person who has recently declared bankruptcy to their board?

    I can assure you that no board I have ever served on (10) would even consider putting her up for consideration.

    Whether or not she is a nice person is of no matter.

    Judgement is.













  • From Peter Brown...to...Anthem Opinions

    Granted not all are wealthy....but the combination of SOCIAL Security....Private savings....Retirement vehicles.....family....children.....and many other programs provide to those who need it.When you say remember......beyond Taxes...Donations.....what else do you do or want others to do?

    Each situation is different...for example as I saved...friends and clients bought toys....boats....jet skis.....trips beyond their means....plus 2nd homes and so on....now they have limited resources..

    ..so what to do..

    ...some lack the capacity for deferred gratification they must have now and suffer later.

    Individual choices...

    ...Freedom!

    As I have told my kids their entire life..

    ...choices you make now will impact your life later.

  • Yesterday is a very good indication of tomorrow !

    As I have said recently Ms. Linow would not make a choice for the Anthem community. Sorry but all she says is, "me, me, me, and do as I say, certainly not as I do. I see her as a "butterfly" always promoting herself to prove her importance to whoever will listen. I can only hope she'll listen to what people are saying especially since if she managed to get on the new board would simply be in over her head, and at that point make it difficult for the other members and associated people.
    ___________________


    Freedom of Choice
    What's Your Opinion?

    Freedom of Choice Poster by Jason Roache - Creative Action Network

    Just how far is far enough?

    Do you agree with the direction that we, the senior property owners, are going, and where we have been with this quarantine?

    Should we as members of an association be allowed to make our own decisions on that is right or wrong?  

    Are we violating the rules and guidelines of the state of Nevada if we had limited access to facilities?  

    What would be fair to our employees?

    What are the options beyond a full shutdown?

    Unless you live in a bubble, our economy is in free fall, and if something doesn't change soon, everything we dreamed of in retirement will be severely altered.


    The Free-Fall Economic State of the World following the COVID-19 ...

    And if you think not getting toilet paper is a problem, think about not being able to get food !  That's a problem !

    Do those who demand others follow "close the world" rules realize what an economic collapse really means?

    It means...DEPRESSION, and in time, a breakdown of law and order, and in the worst case example, STARVATION.

    It's so easy for those who say "close everything" until this crisis is over, but the US Government can't continue to print money and give it away, while we wait for this pandemic to be completely eradicated.


    Per channel 13 news on April 17, 2020, a group of casino owners met to look at options to open.  They suggested the following:

    All employees wear masks including dealers.

    All entrances to casinos have people taking entrants temperature.

    Table games have every other seat empty.

    1/3 of the rooms would be available.

    Enhanced sanitizing and cleaning be done regularly.

    This is currently working in Macau casinos.

    Las Vegas mayor, Carolyn Goodman, said it best... let's open this town.


    Carolyn Goodman, Las Vegas mayor, slams shutdown 'insanity': 'It ...

    This woman, like many of us seniors,  lived through a polio epidemic when kids were being subjected to a life in wheelchair...


    Polio: a 20th century epidemic | Science Museum


    The Polio Crusade | American Experience | Official Site | PBS

    ... yet America never closed, did it?  It fought back and endured it while a man named Jonas Salk solved that plague.


    Salk House | University of Michigan Medical School

    This virus, in an overwhelming number of cases, is affecting seniors who have pre-existing conditions and those in nursing homes, individuals who have already lived well into life expectancy....

    ...a sickness that to date has claimed the lives of approximately 120-130 lives in Clark County's population of 2.3 million, or .0005% of the entire county population.


    Are seniors that important in the "circle of life", that the rest of society collapse due to their demands?

    The ones who think of themselves only,  believe so.

    Perhaps the time has come to realize that tomorrow's generations...the ones that haven't yet had the chance to experience life, are more important than those of us who have! 


    It's so easy for seniors to make "close the world" demands on society because every month like clockwork, the government sends us retirement checks, and in many cases, private industry and/or government service  provides pension benefits as well.

    How easy it is to make decisions for those who don't have this continual flow of income....those who don't get those monthly checks !

    ...But...

    What happens if the "cupboard" is bare, the government runs out of funds, and one day, the American people discover these funds are GONE, that to keep any part of them in place, those benefits had to be either reduced 25%, or 50%, or even eliminated?


    Middle Class Americans Broke Because Of Government Policy Dictated ...

    Anyone want to bet that those same "Keep the world Closed" would change their minds and open the economy to maintain them?

    The restaurants are closing, the farmers who provide them goods are destroying their crops because they can't get them to market...


    AJ+ - U.S. Farmers Are Forced to Destroy Food | Facebook

    ... the truck drivers vans are becoming less and less,  the "mom and pop" shops are being faced with reduced incomes, their employees are laid off ...


    Businesses in Henderson surviving one month into shutdown ...

    ...and it goes on and on until even the "doom and gloomers" will be faced with problems our parents and grandparents were forced to endure....

    ...the reality of depression.

    Can you imagine that? 

    Well, small business is experiencing that now; the government is becoming financially unable to continue its support, continual subsidies will affect interest rates, bankruptcies will multiply, and the US standing in the world will suffer...

    ...because of the paranoia some have the need to force their will on others.

    That's the ultimate end result.

    If The Federal Government Were a Household -Action Economics

    Do any of you believe that this economic crisis won't have a long-term lingering effect?

    Similar to the Macau guidelines, look for casinos to enforce certain forms of "social distancing". That includes spacing out seating in playing areas, showrooms,  bars, and restaurants, and other local restaurants will likely do the same.

    The result? 

    Less seatingless revenue, less need for employees, and less service to you as well as all visitors to our city...

    ...and likely increased prices and taxation to make up for the losses.

    Life will be FORCED to change !

    ...and the question as to how long or IF life will ever resume in the way we knew it, will remain for months, if not years, to come.

    Now, unless you want this inevitable conclusion, realize that we seniors are a mere speck in the future of our nation, a speck that likely will be a memory in 5-15 years, that our grandkids will be the price payers of self-consumed "close the world" attitudes...

    ...and that the greater good requires us to "suck it upand get out of the way, allowing this economy to grow, so they can enjoy the life so many of us seniors have taken for granted.


    So...


    Step Away From the Cake: Suck it up, Buttercup

    My goodness, our parents gave their lives in a depression and a world war for us. 

    What a small price for today's seniors to pay when saving our economy can be accomplished by simply placing oneself in minor jeopardy as compared to what they endured.

    Now let's get back to living as of May 1st, and let's make sure our Governor knows that as well.  

    You can make your views known to him by clicking on this link:


    Steve Sisolak makes Nevada governor bid official | Las Vegas ...



    Let's get our our economy moving...the results of its demise will be worse than any virus.
    IBM - Think — foam studio

    Got a comment?  

    Send it to us at:


    scaopinions@gmail.com


    From Lorraine Hunt Bono (former Lt. Governor of Nevada and Owner of The Bootlegger Bistro)...to...Anthem Opinions

    Thank you Dick!!  
    From David Palmer...to...Anthem Opinions

    Great Editorial, Dick

    It galls the s_ _t out me to have doctors who are making $400,000/year ordering McDonald's employees making $20,000/year that they absolutely cannot work and they will be sent to jail if they do.

    Assuming the "shut down" approach saves 24,000 lives, the cost is $167 million per life saved.

    Cost/life saved

    4,000,000,000,000

    24000.00

    $166,666,667

    Probably 50% of those lives saved were people who were retired. Their life is definitely not worth $167 million.

    They have had a good shot at life.

    Don't put a small fortune into them when they are going die in a relatively short time anyway.

    A total waste of resources.

    That calculation was done a month ago when the governor was just starting its "relief" programs.

    It is probably much higher than that now.

    It's pathetic.

    Anthem OpinionsApril 20, 2020 at 8:58 AM
    From Debbie Mitsch...to...Anthem Opinions

    Have there been any reports of the virus here?

    I am happy to say I don’t know any one that has/had it. 


    Debbie,

    Not a one to my knowledge.




    From Mary Lee Duley...to...Anthem Opinions

    The virus does not Age discriminate.

    I have lost two friends this past week, one in NV age 52 and the other in Texas age 44.

    Deaths are under reported.

    Our daughters, aged 49 and 59 are concerned and have also lost loved ones.

    Perhaps when it hits Your loved ones, the Stay at Home order will make more sense.

    Sadly, people are Not careful about social distancing therefore putting our doctors, nurses, service people at Risk while helping keep us safe and well.

    If you want reality, interview the doctors, nurses etc putting in 12-14 hour shifts daily with insufficient ventilators to save patients at any age.

    The protesters are Spreading the disease, shameful and inexcusable in my opinion.

    I’ve had a good life and do not fear death, BUT do fear the idiots not taking this pandemic seriously that could effect my daughters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

    Look at the Age statistics for deaths in total as its not seniors.

    We Have lived through the polio epidemic and followed All Medical Experts suggestions.

    May everyone remain safe and healthy. 

    1. Mary Lee,

      No one is saying,don't be cautious.

      That's common sense, but to refer to all individuals who protest as spreading the disease and inexcusable when all they are trying to do is feed their families, is just as inexcusable.

      No one is saying they don't take the pandemic seriously; they instead are referring to the many negatives of over reacting to it.

      There is no doubt that losing a life at age 49 or 59 is sad. We also do not know if they had immune systems that might have had a direct effect on their lives.

      Nonetheless, in Clark County, the count is less than one-half of 1% of the population, and in the minds of many, the odds are all but non-existent of death, but reality is that if over reaction continues, those same individuals believe it will be a 100% cause of the collapse of the American economic system.

      For that reason alone, many of us don't believe we even want to take a chance of such devastation.

      Obviously, you believe that the world should shutdown until the last person is cured.

      That is your opinion, and you are entitled to you belief, just as others are of theirs; and if you choose to remain in solitude from the rest of society, that is your choice.

      The difference is that we don't insult an entire group for a different belief.
    From Barry Goldstein...to...Anthem Opinions

    Dick, It is obvious the people that read Mr Berman’s blog need to have someone tell them what to do in their lives.

    People that read your blog are free thinkers; therefore your articles are meant to stir discussions of different opinions.

    I would say free thinkers know what is safe or dangerous activity, and know how to protect ourselves.

    I wonder how many of his readers would be the first to whine if their income stream was cut off?

    Most of us would give our lives to protect our children and grandchildren.

    Not sure Mr Berman understands the sacrifices we make for our loved ones.

    No politics in these comments, just someone who believes a free man or woman can make intelligent decisions without being told to give up our rights.


    Barry,

    After reading that article, it was obvious who would sacrifice their own kids to benefit themselves.

    If his article was to somehow consider me "not human" for placing the lives of children above those who have lived a long life, then I am guilty as charged.....

    ...and I am proud to say I am.

    I didn't want to believe any individual who loved their children, wouldn't die for them.

    Obviously I was wrong.

    It appears that there really are some who would sacrifice their own children in our community, as evidenced by comments some made in addition to the author whose morality has been questioned for years.

    They are not to be disliked; they are, what loving people are not. Instead, they are to be pitied.



    1. Sometimes, you actually have to read things a few times to believe what you've read. 

      This is one of those times. 

      This comment actually was made on the Berman blog:   

      "This is the last paragraph of a letter I have submitted to the Sun.

      There is a right for peaceful protests. However, I feel I am continuing the patriotic duty I demonstrated by enlisting in the Army and following the teachings of Christ by accepting the practice of social distancing and putting life ahead of money."


      Posted by: John David Burke | April 21, 2020 at 07:23 AM 

      I am a Catholic, but until this guy can follow Jesus feeding 5,000 people with a single loaf of bread and a fish, then I'll believe this guy would make some sense.

      Until that day, his thoughts won't solve a problem of unemployment and hunger.

      How about it, Mr. Burke?

      Until that day comes, I think you and your followers should donate your social security checks, pensions, and stimulus checks ?

      If you need the names and addresses of food banks and charities, let me know. There are lots of them.

      And one more thing.

      Can you provide the passage in the Bible that covers social distancing?

      Yes, this man actually exists !
    1. From Peter Brown...to...Anthem Opinions

      I don’t know about you, but I had not heard the term “social distancing” until the outbreak of the coronavirus.

      Intentionally staying several feet away from the nearest person had never crossed my mind.

      I spend enough time in airplanes—crammed in among strangers—that it never would have seemed feasible before now.

      In Biblical days, however, it was very much a practice in relation to leprosy.

      Those who were afflicted by the disease had a variety of skin and nerve issues, including disfigurement, rashes and rotting flesh. The subsequent numbing of body parts meant that the leper could suffer an injury (or even be chewed on by a rodent), without realizing it was happening.

      It was an incurable disease. A death sentence.

      It was feared that leprosy was highly contagious, and becoming inflicted led to severe social stigma.

      In fact, those who fell victim to the disease had to cover their faces and yell “Unclean” as they walked the streets, ensuring that others could stay away.

      Social distancing.

      One of the earliest examples in the Bible is recounted in 2 Kings, chapter 5:1-19.

      It’s an incredible story of the provision of God, and ultimately serves as a beautiful illustration of the Gospel.

      Naaman was the commander of the Syrian army. He was successful, powerful and renowned.

      One problem: He had contracted leprosy.

      A young girl, who had been captured in Israel and brought as a slave to Syria, told of a prophet in her home country who could heal this disease. With the Syrian king’s blessing and an incredible sum of silver and gold,

      Naaman set off to find the prophet Elisha.

      His first stop was the king of Israel, who didn’t take the visit kindly.In fact, the king was sure that this was a setup.

      He tore his clothes, and screamed, “Am I God?”

      He accused Naaman of “seeking a quarrel.”

      Elisha intervened, asking the king to send Naaman to his house.

      Surprisingly, when Naaman and his entourage arrived, Elisha did not come out to greet him.Instead, he practiced social distancing and offered simple instructions.

      “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times,” said Elisha, “and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean.

      ”At first it angered Naaman that Elisha wouldn’t come out to see him, and he was madder still that Elisha prescribed something so simple to overcome such a deadly disease.

      Further, I’m sure that Naaman was filled with doubt as he entered and left the Jordan time after time with no visible improvement.

      However, as he washed the seventh time, the Bible says that Naaman’s “flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean” (2 Kings 5:4, NKJV).

      Naaman’s whole world changed when he encountered the God of Israel.He vowed to Elisha that he would “no longer offer either burnt offering or sacrifice to other gods, but to the Lord” (2 Kings 5:17b, NKJV).

      My friends, Naaman was dealing with a physical disease, but all of us deal with a spiritual disease.

      Naaman had leprosy, but we don't.
    1. From Bill Breier...to...Anthem Opinions

      And Bless Mr. Burke's soul.

      I think he should continue to practice social distancing at least till the end of 2020.

      If fact I think  he can stay home forever If he would like.

      The problem is, he wants to impose his thinking of what is the right thing to do on everybody else.

      There is no reason on God's green earth why we cannot have the common buildings in SCA reopen by May 1.

      Certainly if they want to continue to practice social distancing,  and this is really not a bad idea, they can remove all the leisure furniture in the lobby in Anthem Center and take many of the gaming tables and put them up there to keep more of a distance between all of the tables.

      The same can be done pretty much in all the buildings and rooms with game tables and  seating and gym equipment- take a few away and spread the rest out!

      Certainly ballot counting can go on as planned for May 1 with tables and seating spread far enough apart and the use of gloves and masks.

      Further, there is no reason not to open all of the outdoor courts. The experts have confirmed that being outside is not only healthy but safer because of the fact that germs dissipate in the outdoor air.

      People that want to play pickle ball, bocce,  tennis or go to the pool should be allowed to do so.

      And after all that is said and done, those who don’t feel safe certainly have the “right” to stay home just as those that are comfortable with it have the “right” to go out and mingle using proper precautions.

      I am sure our Management is happy the way things are and want to maintain the status quo for as long as possible.

      They have the buildings all to themselves and much less work ( no events to schedule, nobody coming in and asking for things or complaining to them and no Board or Committee meetings to attend) with everybody hunkered down, but I don’t think the decision should be up to management because, in fact, it does behoove them to keep things the way they are.

      Also, the board as a whole, should not make the decision on whether or not we open.

      For ballot counting on May 1 because there’s at least one member that gets an advantage by maintaining her seat on the board beyond May 1, she should not be included in deciding whether not to re-open.

      BTW, how many cases of the virus have you even heard of in Sun City anthem?.

      Of the people I know and communicate with,  I have not heard of even one.
    1. Now we have Wendy Linow putting her 2 cents into the mix.

      Trouble is, it's probably not her 2 cents.

      Her 2 cents was likely provided by others as a result of her very recent Chapter 7 bankruptcy...

      ...the one she never disclosed in her attempt to "dupe" the community.

      And by the way, Ms. Linow, why don't you be more concerned about running against the other candidates?

      If you haven't noticed, I'm not running for anything....except from your history of financial ineptitude when it comes to you handling $8-9 million of dues a year.

      So...Suck it up, Buttercup !

      All you are is the latest "crony" in the chain of Machine incompetence....

      ...no matter what you say !
    1. From Peter Brown...to...Anthem Opinions

      First, I would like to say that I agree and support the “Freedom” article by Anthem Opinions via Dick Arendt.

      Also, I agree with Barry Goldstein’s comments regarding the same article, it was well written and to the point.

      Bill Breier’s comments struck many points and again I am in full agreement with his thoughts.

      I have been provided comments made by a Ms. Linow on another blog; in reference to that I have a couple comments:

      In this article she indicates the 50 and over population represents 35% of the USA population; who cares, the thrust of the Freedom article was for seniors (65+) ; this group represents 15.7 % of the population.

      In general, her comments seem to be rendered useless.

      Further information from the CDC as follows:

      **76 Deaths in Nevada; Represents 4 tenths of 1 % (.0044) of the Total of 17,229 deaths in USA

      **13,518 Deaths at 65-74 or 78.5% of the Total Deaths

      **510 Deaths at 0-44 Years of age representing 2.96 % of the Total Deaths.

      In addition, 10,865 Deaths are from NY; NYC; NJ. or 63% of all deaths.

      If 4 states in the Midwest had 60-70% of all Deaths, would New York and other big cities be Lock downed?

      Probably not!

      Finally, for those that want to stay home for whatever length of time…Just Do It and let others make their decision.

      I wonder if these same people in the late 1960’s and 1970’s and 1980’s who were aware that 2nd hand smoke killed….

      ...did they stay home or go to Casinos; Restaurants; and so many other places?

      If they were smokers did they stay home and only smoke there not to impact others, children, and people with lung issues?

      Probably not!

      Remember our Freedom is a right!

      What is being done by many government agencies is a breach of our liberties.
    2. From Bill Breier...to...Anthem Opinions

      If Berman’s sycophants feel they have an opposing point of view to an item written by someone that you posted on your blog, then why don’t they come on your blog and present their side of the story?

      This business of him copying comments and then having these people answer on his blog is ridiculous.

      Many of us. believe it or not, don’t read his blog, so the individual writing a comment has no opportunity to defend themselves.

      Are they too afraid to respond directly on your blog to the person has posted something that they disagree with?

      That’s like a bunch of high school girls gossiping about a classmate. 
    3. Bill,

      I wish it was that easy; and if it was, I would gladly do so; however the problem comes to the content of the commentary.

      Only a very few have been removed from an Anthem Opinions subscription.

      Those specific individuals make the most rude and derogatory comments, rarely present any intelligent argument, merely criticize without going into any detail as to why the criticism is made, do so entirely based on the writings of Berman, and would embarrass Anthem Opinions to allow them to be printed.

      What we consider trash, Berman instead encourages, and actually refers it as journalism, a standard we refuse to lower ourselves to, despite his constant distorted and ugly writings designed either to assassinate a character, defend a corrupt MACHINE, and normally combine the two.

      Hence the likely reason that Anthem Opinions visits in the course of a month are 10 times that of David's Anthem Journal.

      Perhaps without his constant insulting behavior, there would be few if any comments at all.

      You will note that unlike Anthem Opinions, Mr. Berman's articles often center around HIM, a characteristic of an insecure individual, who has accomplished little in life, and through his pen, has an unnatural need to achieve some element of importance, at this late stage of life.

      Let's face it, he has no record of any real accomplishment.

      Any person who has read it over the years is fully aware of his past and current disturbing  behavior.

      He is what he is, and will never change.

      His holding the association record for being the #1 receiver of "Code of Conduct" violations until his wife as a former President made sure such behavior would no longer be subjected to community punishment or fine, speaks for the character and behavior he has exhibited toward other residents.

      He has also severely harmed our community by introducing the "race card"' not once, but three times, an action any person with integrity should find appalling.

      Add to that the disturbing and all to often simple-minded  derogatory comments that are little other than rude unprofessional insults similar to his own, proves the market he attracts.

      However, with regard to your request, if any person on that publication can come up with some kind of meaningful commentary or argument without their typical rude behavior, Anthem Opinions would be glad to print both sides of a story.

      As to the other publication doing the same, I wouldn't hold your breath !
    1. From Marty Winger...to...Anthem Opinions

      I see Vermin is a “writing fool” lately.

      It seems he’s in panic mode and has a need to vent so its a daily thing to say anything as long as it goes the way he wants it to go.

      I love the way he can pervert the words to meet his agenda as in yesterday’s offering from our governor.

      As we see today on Fox, a channel we can be sure that he never watches, that states like North Carolina, Georgia, Alaska, and possibly Oregon are opening within the next couple of day at a limited exposure.

      He’s completely freaked at Mayor Goodman’s wanting to get the city going.

      He obviously doesn’t understand anything to do with economic issues as he never has had to run anything in a normal sense.

      “It’s the economy stupid,” as they have said.

      His history as we all have seen in past times, especially the St Rose Incident and the tremendous growth witnessed recently has forced him to go after minuscule problems.

      He’s a “has been” just trying to maintain his position in our growth…along with people like Wendy Linow and types.
    2. Marty,

      I'm waiting for just one of the "close the world" types who will destroy the economy, to back up their beliefs with BUCKS...

      ..their own bucks...

      ... such as their stimulus checks, social security, and miscellaneous pension or 401(k) checks ...

      ...to those those who have NOTHING, are unemployed, have no hope in sight and can't feed their families.

      They all have big mouths, but no common sense as to the long-term effect on our town, much less the entire state, as long as it's at the expense of others...

      ...and in the case of Linow, how to work the system.

      So who is going to be the first out there who is so concerned that they will donate their funds?

      I received a few emails yesterday complaining about my article, but when I responded asking them if they would donate their checks to help out those who were being destroyed by their belief, guess how many responded that would?

      ZERO...

      ...A.K.A.

      Do as I say, not as I do" !
    1. From Buddy Greenfield...to...Anthem Opinions

      Just leaving Costco. They have already change their routine.

      There were no lines outside to get in, no one counting how many patrons are in the store.

      Yes, they have tapes on the floor so when we check out we don’t get too close and they’re wiping down the conveyor belt and the plastic that guards the cashiers, but other than that everybody’s free to come and go as they please and roam the store.

      Many people are recognizing that things have changed.

      I just wish our Governor and SCA management would too.
    ______________________



    Sun City Anthem
    Operating Fund & Reserve Fund Assessments
    What's the Difference?

    Testing & Assessment / Home

    by
    Richard Pope
    Ballot Position # 3

    I believe SCA members deserve to receive clear and concise communication on all issues especially complicated financial reporting. 

    The money collected from SCA’s annual assessment has not been properly reported between the Operating and Reserve Funds. 

    Do you know how much of your assessments are used to fund operations vs reserves?

    SCA’s Operating Fund Assessments


    The amount of annual assessments paid by members does not tell the whole story. 

    We need to analyze the operating assessments collected plus/minus the operating loss/surplus to determine the true operating funds needed to run SCA’s operations.

    SCA generated surplus operating funds in the last three years totaling more than $1.2 million  ($171.00 per home)

    In 2017, SCA generated $300,134 ($42.00 per home) in surplus Operating funds;

    In 2018, SCA generated $507,653 ($71.00 per home) in surplus Operating funds;

    In 2019, SCA generated $416,834 in surplus Operating funds.

    Generating surpluses sounds good I admit, but...

    Don’t you wonder why that money was not given back to the members?

    Most of the 2017 and 2018 surpluses were transferred to Reserves and none returned to the members.

    I will vote to refund the remaining prior year surpluses as well as the 2019 surplus to members

    It is the members money and they should determine how it is to be spent.

    SCA’s Reserve Fund Assessments

    SCA has been able to move in the past 3 years over $2 million of Reserved projects into the future. This is good news for members as it pushes Reverse expenses in to the future but it must be accounted for in
    the Reserve Study

    The Reserve Study already assumes this $2 million has been spent when in actuality it has not been spent but moved in to future years.

    In 2019, the SCA Board approved two major replacement projects not complicated in the Reserve Study, parking lot and pool deck, costing over $1 million that had less than $200,000 in 2020 reserves to repair
    these items in the Reserve Study.

    According to SCA’s CFO...


    SCA paid 28% more on average than reserved for the reserve projects completed in the last 3 years.

    Therefore, the SCA Reserve Study should have been reviewed and made needed funding adjustments to take into consideration the reserve projects moved forwarded, the 28% overspend and the approved
    replacement projects not complicated in the Reserve Study.

    The funding needs for both the Operating Fund and Reserve Fund should be clearly communicated to members and fully analyzed annually. 

    I hope this article clears up some questions you may have regarding how SCA accounts for the Operating and Reserve Funds and how your money is being spent.

    If you have additional questions or want to see the details, please send them to me at:
    rpopecpa@ymail.com

    SCA members deserve to hear clear and concise communication describing how their assessments are being spent. 

    This is what you can expect to receive from me if I am elected to the SCA Executive Board.

    If you agree, please vote for me.

     Richard Pope
     Ballot position # 3.

    Stay Well !
    ___________________

    Poor Wendy...or is it "Windbag"?
     Caught in a Lie

    Here's What Emma Stone Could Look Like As Cruella De Vil - CINEMABLEND


    With just a few days before the balloting will "thankfully" end regarding the community Board election, the Machine, is setting forth perhaps the worst slate in the history of Sun City Anthem to govern the community of recent record, and has called out all stops in getting themselves elected.


    The choice of Candace KarrowPaul Perlstein, and Wendy Linow dramatize just how far the Sun City Anthem MACHINE will go in order to keep their stranglehold in tact.  

    This was the best they could come up with? 


    The only questions that remain are:

    Will they succeed, and if so,  which of the worst will be seated when the current Board makes a decision as to when the ballots will be counted?


    The latest "Windbag Wendy" Linow' explosion was just another attempt for a desperate individual to claw her way into Sun City Anthem governance.

    This was the individual who merely two and a half years ago declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and didn't believe that fact was important enough to disclose it until Anthem Opinions did...

    ...believing that "minor detail" had no bearing on her ability to govern a community's $8-9 million in annual revenue ?


    "Wendy Windbag", in her denial of the existence of a MACHINEwhich to anyone with half a brain, would laugh at the very suggestion that one does not exist...

    ... needs votes badly, and like the MACHINE she IS every bit a part of it as a staunch supporter of the "The Berman BS Brigade", she's now really pushed the panic button with a mere few days to go before the balloting will be closed.

    This time she's referring to Anthem Opinions as being liars, that her information has always been available on the SCA website for all to see.

    Sorry "Wendy Windbag", we caught you in a lie AGAIN.

    Did Anthem Opinions remove a comment sent by her FROM HER CAMPAIGN EMAIL ADDRESS?

    Yup, as we do any other one who is not a blog subscribera rule we established in 2012, whether they be insulting or complimentary.

    Here's the specific section of Anthem Opinions that addresses that issue:

    We also refuse to publish any anonymous comments.

    Well now "Windbag Wendy" believes that other blog rules should be ours as well...especially pertaining to her, a person who wants to govern a community  and would swear to uphold its rules.  

    That doesn't work for me!

    We have our rules and they have theirs and that's their choice.


    But...having established  those rules almost 8 years ago, we tried to allow her to comment subject to her subscribing to Anthem Opinionswhich she refused to do.

    Well, when it comes the MACHINE, that's never the end of the story; and as usual, that's where we normally enter the picture.

    With the undying support of her mentor, the heavily medicated forger ex-lawyer who refers to others as "racists", "thugs", inhuman","demented", and "filled with hate", has assisted in covering her tracks...


    ..she decided to take another page out of his playbook, and  LIE again by stating she was barred from answering resident questions and  always has been listed on the Sun City Anthem Directory.

    Sorry "Windbag"...this is how you will be judged shortly after bringing the following information to our readers:

    amstemann25 on Scratch

    The day we removed her comment, we also sent this POLITE email to her. 


    It was dated April 22, 2020 and sent to her at 2:18pm...

    ...prior to her article that appeared on "Davie's Bull Sheet" on April 24, 2020...

    This is it !

    "Ms. Linow:

    Please note that you are not a registered subscriber of Anthem Opinions using this email address, nor does this email address or any other personal email address exist on the Sun City Anthem directory.  

    Our blog rules specifically states you must be a registered subscriber to place any comment.

    Regarding your comment that you were never asked to answer resident questions, the candidate statement appeared on Anthem Opinions the day candidates were announced, and has appeared each day thereafter.  

    This was approximately 6-7 weeks ago, which was ignored by you. 

    As to why you did, was your decision. Nevertheless, you did.

    Since you chose not to list your email address on the SCA website, the list from which questions were asked, the list residents should be allowed to contact any candidate, that made it very plain to our readers, that you were withholding such information from the voters; and as a result, not willing to answer any resident questions.

    To give you the benefit of a doubt, I just checked the SCA site again and you still have not listed your home email address of phone on the site.  All others did.   Somehow you feel that is acceptable for an SCA candidate.

    Anthem Opinions DOES NOT.

    As a result, your comment was deleted as per our rules which were VERY PLAIN, that you chose to ignore.

    Anthem Opinions"

    Well, following this email to Ms. Windbag, suddenly her never before  published personal information appeared on the SCA Resident Directory...

    ...just in time for her and Davie's Bull Sheet to make up her yarn.

    Unfortunately, she got caught by Director Rana Goodman, who addressed her "error" and of course was followed up...

    ...not by a Wendy response, but by Mr. Bull Sheet, whose response was so ridiculous that even a fool would say...


    Are U Shitting Me?! - Shitty - Sticker | TeePublic


      And with all the respect due you "Windbag Wendy"...  

    Some gotchas and useful commands to sort them out, in the context ...


    This is just another example of your lack of CREDIBILITY....

    ...that you and your MACHINE will do anything to get elected, even...


    LIE RADIO's stream on SoundCloud - Hear the world's sounds


    Now it looks like you really are everything we've been saying for weeks as to your credibility...

     It's all...
    I Call B.S. - GodSight
    Hopefully the rest of the community will look at the real Wendy Linow by the time the balloting ends Thursday, April 30th...




    From Marcia Kosterka...to...Anthem Opinions

    As of 4-23-20, Wendy Linow HAD NOT LISTED HER PHONE NUMBERS or EMAIL address on the SCA web site.

    It only appeared on 4-24-20, the same day that she wrote her article on David's Anthem Journal stating the information had ALWAYS been available ON THE SCA WEB SITE.

    That puts her in the liar's den.

    I would be willing to challenge her publicly because her denials started way before her latest lies about you.

    1. Marcia, thanks for confirming our article.

      Unfortunately the "Dick Arendt hit", has continued with a woman named Margaret Carbaugh, a woman I have never met who, though despite writing a rather "neutral" article on the Bull Sheet, appears to be typical of those who populate it.   

      She has the full right to state:

      "First, let me say that I am no fan of Dick Arendt. Based on what I’ve heard and read over the years, it is quite obvious that he is a very bitter, negative person. And unfortunately, thanks to modern technology and his right of free speech, he has a platform from which to spew his venom.It’s really kind of sad – and it is even sadder that people can’t seem to just ignore his rants and choose to react. " 

      But, when it come to the "What I've Heard and read over the years" part, I think it's more than obvious as to where she "heard or read it". 

      She is not a subscriber to Anthem Opinions, we have no idea  if she has ever visited us, is unable to state anything specific, and obviously has fallen for the continuous bunk which is characteristic of the Berman crowd. 

      But Ms. Carbaugh, to assume a person that "it is quite obvious that he is a very bitter, negative person" without even having had a single contact with a person in order to come to that conclusion, yet, never mentions that her hero has done hatchet jobs of character assassination on numerous individuals over the years, makes one question her ability to "see the forest for the trees."

      Of course in her estimation, referring to individuals as "racists", "demented","anti-semitic", and writing false stories that even video prove a person is a liar, in no way constitutes a "bitter, negative person" in her mind.... 

      ...not counting the ability to realize that the individual she seems to criticize, never forged a judge's signature or lost a law license due to dishonesty, much less has never been accused of any form of dishonesty in his life until a person who has committed such acts, accused him of it.

      None of that counts, does it Ms. Carbaugh?

      Of course not, your ability to determine credibility should be commended.

      Sorry Ms. Carbaugh, but all you've done is prove the statement":

      "When you assume, you make an ASS out of U and ME".  
    1. From Peter Brown to Marge Carbaugh...c/o Anthem Opinions
      (Part One)

      Ms. Carbaugh, since you are not listed on the SCA directory, I am unable to send this to you directly, and you leave me no choice other than responding to your article here on Anthem Opinions.

      I read your article today (4-27-20); it was provided to me by a friend, as I do not access Berman’s blog anymore.

      Please read my last posting to his blog, replicated below in bold.

      He is an odd person, though apparently, he is your friend, it is instructive to me that many of your thoughts regarding Mr. Arendt are applicable to Berman.

      As to your article, frankly I am not sure why it was written; 30% seems to describe who and what you are; 50% applies to your thoughts on how to approach COVID-19 and our economy; 15% applies to your thoughts regarding Mr. Arendt; 5% TBD.

      I personally do not know you and have no interest in your political views or leanings, I suspect most people would also be disinterested.

      As to your thoughts about COVID-19 and the economy, yes you're entitled to your opinion, but why would anyone besides yourself and your friends and Berman be interested?

      As far as I know, you stated no expertise or experience on these matters.

      Then there are your thoughts about Mr. Arendt.

      In this regard I have a few questions or thoughts:

      **You indicate your opinion is based on “what I’ve heard and read over the years”.

      So why not indicate what you have heard and from whom?

      Why not indicate what you have read and who wrote it?

      **You indicate “it is quite obvious that he is a very bitter, negative person”; obvious to whom?

      How can you make this statement with no support whatsoever?

      **You indicate it is unfortunate Mr. Arendt has the same right of all Americans, free speech and his opinion. Further, you state he “spews his venom”.

      What venom? examples?

      **Strangely you end your “essay” claiming Mr. Arendt has the right to make his own choices! Everyone does!

      The odd thing is your article primarily discusses you and COVID-19.

      Why make your final proclamation about Mr. Arendt!

      Why would you think Mr. Arendt or anyone else needs you to pronounce their right to choose, odd indeed?

      Though it does explain your friendship with Berman, like minds…………….!

      Finally, how many times have you met with Mr. Arendt; how many phone calls; how many emails?

      I suspect the answer is you have never communicated with Mr. Arendt in all your years at SCA.
    2. From Peter Brown to Marge Carbaugh...c/o Anthem Opinions
      (Part Two)

      Briefly, when I moved to SCA a year ago, I communicated with Berman on occasion.

      He told me that Mr. Arendt is an evil and destructive force in this community (SCA).

      He also indicated Mr. Arendt was the sole reason the SCA community has so much negative exchanges and he has simply ruined this community. 

      Berman challenged me to meet Mr. Arendt and see for myself what
      he was saying was true.

      So, unlike you, and many others I reached out and sat and had coffee at Mr. Arendt’s home. 

      Note, he was straight forward, outspoken and willing to discuss and answer any of my questions.

      No, he was not as Berman described him in any manner.

      In the end, it turns out that Berman is more like what he describes others, and sadly many in this community cannot or will not accept that simple truth.


      ****************************************************
      This was my post on the Berman blog:

      D. Berman I have now come to the conclusion that reading or subscribing to your blog is a waste of my time.

      Your blog rarely provides knowledge, humility or purpose.

      Frequently you make accusations towards others and create an atmosphere of negative consequences.

      Sadly, you present yourself as a sad little man seeking attention or admiration.

      Yes, you have a small group of sycophants that feed your desire.

      Recently you posted about unnamed “jerks”...

      ...more of the same.....I suspect you're well qualified to know one..

      ( Birds of a feather flock together).....

      let’s be straight for the uninformed.....

      A jerk in the slang as you presented It tends to mean....

      ......a contemptibly naive, stupid, or insignificant person; a foolish, rude, or contemptible person.

      Take a deep breath and realize for a moment.....these definitions seem to fit you in many ways.
    _______________________

    Are you prepared for the economic cost of COVID-19?
    (Part One of Two)

    Commentary: COVID-19 pandemic could cost the US economy $973 ...

    by
     Richard Pope
    Ballot Position # 3

    After listening to Governor Sisolak’s town hall meeting of April 21st, I am concerned about the length of time he is suggesting Nevada take in reopening our state.

    In 2005, President George W. Bush asked congress for $7 billion for Pandemic preparedness. 

    Congress refused. 

     He stated it was not a matter of if,  but when we will be hit by a pandemic and if we wait until we are hit it will be too late. 

     He was so right!


    Let’s look at what needs to be done before Nevada can start to look at reopening.

    The White House developed criteria of what states or regions must do before proceeding to a phased reopening of their economies. 


     Governor Sisolak presented his version and refers to it as Phase Zero.

    First, a consistent and sustainable downward trajectory of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations over a 14-day period measured by a decrease in the trend of COVID-19 hospitalizations; and a decline in percentage of people testing positive.


    SecondHealthcare and Public Health Systems should be able to maintain hospital capacity without crisis standards of care, have a sufficient public health workforce capacity between the local and state health departments to conduct case contact tracing (detect, test, trace, isolate), have the expanded ability for healthcare providers to administer tests for symptomatic patients, and have sufficient laboratory testing capacity to process COVID-19 testing samples.


    Thirda sustained ability to protect vulnerable populations, meaning that outbreaks are successfully contained and closed in special settings like health facilities and nursing homes.

    Fourth, confirm protective measures are in place before moving to the first phase.

    As Nevada performs more daily tests the number of documented COVID-19 cases will increase. In order to reduce the percentage of positive tests, Nevada needs to be able to perform many times more tests than its current capacity.

    However, these are not new daily increases. 


    For each documented case the infected person could have been infected up to 21 days prior. If we count each positive test as a new case for that day, we will be looking at months before we see a decline in new cases within a 14-day period.

    Let’s look at COVID-19 in the state of Nevada

    Nevada has an estimated population of 3.14 million.

    Through April 21st, Nevada had 3,937 (.125%) total cases and 163 (.0052%) total deaths.

    If the antibody tests performed in California are correct, the actual number of cases could be between 55 to 85 times what has been reported. 

     This would bring the total cases in Nevada that have actually been infected by COVID-19 up to 217,000 (7%) to 335,000 (11%).

    Now let’s look at the economic costs of COVID-19

    What are the economic consequences of this phased in approach to each taxpayer in our state and country? 

    Higher TAXES!

    COVID-19 has caused our local, state and federal governments to spend hundreds of billions of dollars in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and will spend hundreds of millions more each year preparing for the next wave of COVID-19 and future pandemics. 

    Where will this money come from? 

     Tax revenues!


    In Part Two...I will explain what a tax increase means to us and how it would affect all of Nevada.


    Richard Pope
    SCA Board position # 3



    I agree with Mr Pope 100% - the economic devastation will far exceed the health devastation from this virus. The media is creating unnecessary panic over this malaise and this panic is not supported by the limited data. It seems that far more people are testing positive, yet most of those testing positive have had no (or very limited) symptoms.....over the past couple of months, how many of us have had a "touch" of something where we 'didn't feel just right' for a couple of days?? You could have had covid-19 and not even realized it. You probably now have an internal immunity to this virus. I hope that the Vegas economy recovers to its former glory within my lifetime.
    _____________________

    Are you prepared for the economic cost of COVID-19?
    (Part Two of Two)

    Commentary: COVID-19 pandemic could cost the US economy $973 ...

    by
     Richard Pope
    Ballot Position # 3

    In the short run the federal government can print money, but this is not sustainable

    Local and state governments cannot print money.


    Therefore, local, state and federal governments will need to generate additional tax revenue to cover these additional costs and to cover traditional operating expenses while corporate and individual taxable income decreases due to the nationwide COVID-19 shutdown.

    Tax revenues are calculated based on taxable income multiplied by the tax rate percentage.

    As taxable income declines, because businesses are not generating as much revenue, tax rates, as a percentage of taxable income, will need to be increased to cover the gap.


    In states like Nevada, that does not have an individual income tax, may need to tax individuals more to make up for the loss of corporate tax revenue

    This can be accomplished by increasing sales and property taxes or creating an individual income tax structure.


    As Nevada phases in our economy over the next year, its Gross Domestic Product will be a fraction of what it has beenTherefore, its tax revenues will also be a fraction of what they have been requiring them to find new sources of tax revenue.

    What industry is Las Vegas in  that adds additional complications to reopening?

    I say, it is in the CONVENTION business. 

    Hospitality, restaurant, bar and gaming are all off shoots of the convention business. 

    42.5 million people visited Las Vegas in 2019 mainly driven by conventions.  

    If Las Vegas is not allowed to offer conventions until sometime in 2021 and then required to enforce strict social distancing what effect would this have on the number of visitors to Las Vegas? 

    It will be devastating to the Las Vegas economy.


    In order to start opening Las Vegas, the Governor is evaluating keeping bars closed, reducing the number of restaurant tablesremoving every other seat at the gaming tablesremoving a number of slot machinesreducing the number of available seats in the showrooms and theaters requiring empty seats between visitors and require social distancing at all times including at conventions.

    Wynn Resorts presented a plan to the Governor for evaluation. 

    I believe the bars could reopen with limited seating similar to restaurants.

    Hotels can add extra screening, sanitizing stations, take their temperature at check-in and have thermo readers at entrances, a health questionnaire and issue masks to each guest to wear while in public spaces.


    If Las Vegas does not continue to bring in conventions not only will state sales and income tax revenues fall but so will our home values and our way of life as we know it

    The number of workers in hospitality, restaurant, bar, entertainment, construction, and convention setup and supply will decrease greatly, causing a snow ball effect.


    As the workers described above move out of town to try to find employment elsewhere, the number of retail and service jobs will also decline. 

    This mass exodus will cause property values to fall and higher taxes for Nevadan’s.


    Once Nevada reopens, it is going to take many months to get the convention attendance back to pre COVID-19 levels costing the state of Nevada and most of Nevada’s businesses hundreds of millions in profits and tax revenues.

    Nevada needs to get back to work ASAP

    In order to do this, we need to dramatically increase our testing capabilities and conduct case contact tracing. 

    Our leaders need to move heaven and earth to get this accomplished now. 

    If you agree, please reach out to as many people and state representatives as you can.

    Stay Well
    Richard Pope

    SCA Board position # 3
    _____________________

    Did You Starve in the Past 45 Days?

    Hungry person cartoon | Cartoon Hungry Man — Stock Vector ...

    Silly question, and obviously you didn't, otherwise you wouldn't be reading this editorial.

    ...but...

    ...as  always there's reason for asking such a question, and it has to do with the Sun City Anthem election and the common sense that is not only lacking in Candace KarrowPaul Perlstein, and Wendy Linow, but the out and out lack of financial competence by even suggesting a restaurant at this time.

    Some how, some way, residents have survived not having a restaurant...

    ...not just a self-managed one...

    ...but none at all, here, there, anywhere no matter where you go...

    ...even in the entire State of Nevada !

    That doesn't seem to register with those three because all are determined to support a self-managed restaurant.

    Now with that "catastrophic" result, let's revisit the subject of a self-managed restaurant.

    For starters, check out the Sun City Anthem website, and after you log-in to the site, you sell see this:

     ~ Click Restaurant to view the results of the recent survey. Restaurant Space Update

    Click on "Restaurant" and you will see all of the various comments residents made who attended the 3 work shops, and at the bottom of Page 35...yeah, there were that many pages that totaled 417 different comments.

    We won't bore you with 35 pages, but on Page 35, the total appeared, and low and behold, what was told to us a few years ago, didn't seem to be the case now.

    Turns out that of the 417 comments, 166 favored a self-managed restaurant and 251 against.

    That translates to:  
    For:         39.8%

    Against:  60.2%

    Keep in mind this was after 3 days of work shops that should have more properly been referred to as...

    Sales Seminars
    (similar to a timeshare presentation)

    ...filled with fictitious statistics that had been based on the "opinions" of a select group of Directors who would have "sold the community down the river" had it not been for the additional...

    1,358

    ...written and online petitions of Sun City Anthem owners who opposed the self-management deal.

    All that without a single opportunity of an alternative meeting to discuss the absurdity of such an arrangement that included the financial disaster it would bring. 

    It's been a bit of time since the "sales jobs" were presented, and look at what has taken place since?
    Menu Lockdown | Drupal.org
     ...and the demand for "social distancing" that likely will be enforced for some time to come, even if the City and Centers open.

    Just what does that mean to ANY restaurant?

    It means that the available space would be reduced...

    ...that only half of what was once available would remain...

    ...and...

    ...suddenly the "mysterious" number of patrons on which they based the fictitious "con job", would have to substantially increase...

    ...with the result of even higher losses and/or higher menu prices.

    But...there's always more to the story...the ironic part.

    Think about it !

    Most of those who refuse to leave their homes out of fear of the .0005% probability of succumbing to a virus...

    ...the ones who oppose opening up a city to commerce believing  Armageddon would result without concern for those who need to work and support their families...

    ...were in large part, the ones who desperately wanted a self-managed restaurant.

    Well now, something doesn't seem to add up !

    Of course all that means little to  Paul PersteinCandace Karrow, and Wendy Linow in their "expert" financial planning. 

    Perlstein has all the answers through his expertise at selling restaurant equipment which should come in handy to empty socially spaced restaurant owners looking for customers...

    Karrow will use her personality and "I'm the boss" management style of holding information from property owners to persuade us that these recent poll numbers don't mean much, but the ones from two years ago did...

    and Linow, through her very recent Chapter 7 bankruptcy experience will boast of  her expertise in how to handle association funds along with her belief that a MACHINE doesn't exist (LOL) and her latest "fib" about stating her information was always available on the SCA website, even though it was "conveniently" added the day before her latest  desperate "self-explosion".

    In their minds, we should go full steam ahead at breaking the Sun City Anthem bank and all those who contribute to it every quarter.

    Gotta have them, don't we?

    You have a mere 2 days to cast your ballot in the 2020 Sun City Anthem Board election.

    If you haven't done so...

    Don't let these individuals track records convince you that you could expect anything other than what you're already received by THE MACHINE...

    ...because they are THE MACHINE.

    Instead...
    General election 2019: Who can register to vote in a general ...

    Nelson Orth  (2)
    Richard Pope  (3)
    Stephen Anderson (4)

    Remember, your vote must be received no later than Thursday, April 30th, at 4:00pm, and can be placed in any lock box at the various Centers.


    What kind of a person would make this kind of statement? 

    In all the years of posting, it is the most hateful remark ever made by any human being in the Sun City Anthem Community and should NEVER be condoned by any person having a sense of moral character.

    This person is a DISGRACE to all of Sun City Anthem, and certainly should not be representative of a member of any civilized society, much less a senior community.

    This person should be ashamed of such a statement and I hope our entire community will look at such an individual for the hate that has clearly been demonstrated.

    We have no room for such a person in our community who would make such a statement:

    "I believe Dick Arendt's comments are tongue in cheek type of talk and should not be taken at face value. If he really believed what he wrote, he should have committed suicide already, "for the betterment of the society and mankind."

    Posted by: Tien H Cheng | April 30, 2020 at 01:08 AM


    Does this really represent Sun City Anthem? My goodness, I certainly hope not.

    And of course, where does such hatred appear and allows such trash to be a part of his publication? 

    The one who constantly is saying others are "filled with hate"....

    ...the one who needs to look in the mirror for allowing this to be printed ?

    David's Anthem Journal


    1. From Rana Goodman...to...Anthem Opinions

      Tien Cheng:

      I a have a T'shirt that says:

      "In a world where you can be anything, be kind."

      For you to make a statement like that, wishing someone dead "for the betterment of society and mankind," you must not believe in Karma...

      That is about the nastiest thing I have seen, especially considering what we are all going through at this time.
    1. From Bill B....to...Anthem Opinions

      Thankfully I don’t know who this is, but it’s a shade of threat to your life that frightens me and makes me ill.

      Believe me , I have no love for the guy who publishes this garbage, but would never say anything like this - nor would you publish it.

      Another reason I won’t go on his blog.
    2. Bill,

      A reader brought to our attention that this individual, Tien H Chengmight be the same Tien H, Cheng, who is a  Doctor of Radiology.


      If that be the case, it not only becomes a disgrace to the Sun City Anthem community, but to the medical profession itself.

      What kind of physician suggests "suicide" in any way?

      In our opinion, if this is the same Tien H. Cheng, I would hope any person needing the services of such a person who would make such remarks, think twice of utilizing such an individual in any such medical capacity.

      This gives the medical profession a black eye.
    1. From Robert Smith...to...Anthem Opinions

      Hi Richard.

      When is the best possible time to consider opening a restaurant?

      Two choices…

      1.  Immediately after sustaining a atomic bomb attack!

      2. During or immediately after a worldwide coved-19 virus epidemic!

      Please urge our New Board members to consider the consequences, assuming, after the election we have new members.

      Thanks for putting the full time effort into publishing this blog daily for ALL Anthem residents.

      Posing these choices to existing board members would not matter.

      They’d vote to contract for another restaurant regardless.

      So sad!!
    2. Robert,

      This question will be answered depending on which of the SCA candidates are elected and if a majority of the Board would exist to oppose it.
    _____________________

    Anthem Opinions was asked to publish the contents of an email sent to members of the Sun City Anthem Board and 2020 Board candidates.

    Former Sun City Anthem Finance Chairman
    Criticizes Management's Fear Tactics

    American Handgunner Don't Fall Victim to Email Fear Tactics ...

    By 
    Bernard Horton
    Former Chairman
    Sun City Anthem Finance Committee

    Today I read as did many others, that the Board authorized management to close any sports court if they observe anyone on the sports courts not following suggested social distancing.  I believe that would be a major mistake and invite a legal action because it is NOT illegal or a criminal act if one does not stay 6 feet away from another person.  

    They are not arresting or ticketing anyone in any grocery store, hardware store, or other essential business are they? 

    Now that the City has removed the emergency ordinance over using these outdoor sports facilities, it would be a dangerous violation of our rights as members to lock off our facilities we pay for just because somebody sees people being too close to one another. 


    The responsibility to protect oneself from potential exposure lies with the person, not with others who may choose not to maintain a certain distance or wear a mask or gloves.  

    I ask you to rescind that authority to management to close down our facilities if someone complains about someone else being too close.  

    How would they know if the people were not husband and wife, other cohabitants, or family members?


    SCA has no police powers in the governing documents. 


    The police do not stop people and ticket people anywhere for being too close and neither should SCA get drawn into a legal battle of members against management and directors.   


    If you establish rules, you can impose fines, but that opens up further legal questions of whether the rules go to far in interfering with our property ownership rights.


    I suggest instead posting signs on recommendations for social distancing and avoiding legal action.  

    A costly legal action and PR nightmare will follow if the association dictates that standing too close to someone else is illegal and somehow imposes a public safety threat to others.  


    I urge you to use common sense here.


    SCA has prevented us from using any of our facilities we continued to pay for nearly two months, and a kinder gentler association and management would be appreciated instead of threats and warnings like:



    management received complaints that the residents were not practicing appropriate social distancing guidelines. The clubs have been reminded to follow the reopening guidelines while enjoying these outdoor activities. The board will allow us to close the courts if we cannot get cooperation and if we feel the health and safety of the residents is in danger."






  • From Hal Sacks...to...Anthem Opinions

    So to those that choose to not Shelter in place, that choice  is solely up to you.

    But who you infect as a result of your choice is not a choice they get to make.

    While I fully support all of your enlightenment and efforts regarding our current board, our elections and the restaurant proposal to name a few. I was quite surprised and even a bit repulsed regarding some of your recent articles regarding our SCA rights, freedoms of choice and our NV government.

    For me, the principles of let the greatest among you serve and placing the needs of another over one self are actually “Not Niceties” but essentials to life for today and tomorrow.






  • Mr. Sacks,You are fully entitled to your opinion as am I.

    Repulsed is a bit strong, though.

    As I have said repeatedly, if you choose to remain in doors, do so, but I choose to live my life as I choose.

    That is my right.

    If you choose not to interact with human beings your problem is solved by just staying home.

    That to me is not life.

    I do not believe your forced opinions are more important than those of others.

    This entire situation has caused the fall of the entire economy and that will, if it continues, result not in recession, but depression.

    It is very easy for those seniors who receive their monthly social security checks, pensions, etc. to take your point of view , but if the American economy fails, those measures will also be drastically affected adversely, or do you believe the US government has the ability to print money at will without affecting its standing in the world?

    As of May 3, 2020, there were 4,411 individuals in Clark County who tested positive, and 1,003 were hospitalized. 223 deaths were reported and of that number, 168 were over age 65.

    With a Clark County population exceeding 2,300,000, that represents .0073% probability of death, a statistic that is very low.

    Cautious, yes, but to many an overreaction that is not worth the destruction of the American economy.

    Sir, when you see young families looking out for their personal survival while you sit in a nice home with such subsidies they do not have, and you wish to sacrifice them for your personal safety, that makes me consider your actions questionable as well, but I will not judge you.

    I accept your view, but simply disagree with it.

    I would ask this of you and those who do believe the world should be shutdown:

    Would you please consider those unfortunate individuals in our society who have provided you the lifestyle you have through their employment, and donate the entire amount of your stimulus check you likely received and did not need, to those families who are in desperate need? 
  • __________________
    Sun City Anthem Board Meeting & Agenda
    Why Now ?
    Crucial Vote Likely Depends on 
    One Board Member

    Crunch Time for the Nasdaq 100


    If you read the recent Sun City Anthem eblast that was sent on May 14th and the letter sent to each owner last week,  there were a few items that peaked the interest of those of us who take the time to read them...

    ...and ask a few questions !

    The letter had an interesting highlight as to its purpose:

    "review" certain items they feel are necessary to TAKE ACTION ON WITHOUT FURTHER DELAY"

    We can understand the one item approving the Election Count procedures to May 22nd...

    ...but there were a couple of other "ditties" that smack of "WHY NOW ?"...

    ...when four days later a new Board will be seated and CAN and SHOULD BE....

    ...considered by a new Board at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting on May 26th.

    Why do the red flags go up?


    Red Flag fire Warning issued for Northern California | The ...

    Let's go back a year to a few days before the 2019 ballots were counted and the then Board decided to grant a THREE year contract to Chief Operating Officer, Sandra Seddon, that they specifically stated was CONFIDENTIAL, did not divulge it to the community on that basis, and locked the 2019, as well as, the current 2020 and 2021 Boards into an agreement that would cost Sun City Anthem property owners A FORTUNE to terminate if they chose to do so...

    ...and through the efforts of Anthem Opinions that were continually thwarted by management in revealing it was PUBLIC and numerous correspondence with the Nevada Real Estate Division, turned out to be a complete...



    The Word Lie On A Red Light Or Button To Indicate Someone Is ...


    ... on the part of the 2018 Sun City Anthem Board who were a part of deceiving their constituents.

    ...a ...
    The Word Lie On A Red Light Or Button To Indicate Someone Is ...

    ...they refused to acknowledge, and to date, STILL will not make a part of the PUBIC records that each and every property owner is entitled...

    ...a...
    The Word Lie On A Red Light Or Button To Indicate Someone Is ...

    ...that if one does go through the procedure of obtaining its contents which can be obtained through the simple completion of a Document Request form, THREATENS ANY OWNER if shared with others.

    It was a measure that "smacked" of pure MACHINE politics.

    Now, a year later, they seem to be at it again...this time through a quirk in the law and a pandemic, allowing two individuals to make decisions on matters whose terms really expired on April 30, 2020 and another individual, the President, who once the ballots are countedmay be part of the other two departing MACHINE politicos, if not reelected.

    In other words, allowing 33% of a Board  who are "history" and one who may not be reelected....

    ...50% of a technically BOGUS board...

    ...to make the decisions for those who will be LEGALLY elected FOUR DAYS LATER once the ballots are counted, locking them into decisions, as the MACHINE DID A YEAR AGO regarding the Seddon contract.

    And people still don't believe a MACHINE controls Sun City Anthem ???

    So what are those two additional items?

    ..."items they feel are necessary to TAKE ACTION ON WITHOUT FURTHER DELAY" 

    Approving a 2019 Audit and Tax Return
     &
     Review / Approve future assessment credit 

    Why are these items so crucial?

    Simply stated, they are the crux of why all but one of a community Finance Committee members resigned, and without proper scrutinymake it impossible to determine a proper future assessment credit.

    Voting on these matters are 100% MACHINE...and...100% unethical in our opinion, and are in no way  so "crucial" that they should not be considered by a PROPERLY ELECTED BOARD that will EXIST FOUR DAYS LATER.

    What will likely take place?

    First, there are only 6 remaining Board members who may vote.  David Weil's Board resignation became effective April 30, 2020.

    Who do we believe will DEFINITELY vote YES to lock in the future Board?

    MACHINE members:

    Candace Karrow
    James Coleman
    Arthur Schuetz

    Who do we believe will likely vote against these measures?

    Remaining Board members:

    Rana Goodman
    Forrest Quinn

    That means we have one "wild card" who can decide the fate of the next Board....
    Karen Hadrick

    And the question remains as to Hadrick's promise...

    Will she KEEP HER ELECTION PROMISE TO REFORM, or become a MACHINE member of the Sun City Anthem Board?

    Hadrick's vote "against"  the measures would create a 3-3 tie and the matter would then go to the newly elected board

    We shall see on Monday at 10:00am.

    Got a comment?

    Send it to us and more importantly to HER prior to Monday, May 18th.

    Her email address is:


    Send your comments to us at:


    scaopinions@gmail.com



    From Jim Mayfield...Former Sun City Anthem Vice President and Former Finance Committee Chairman...to...Anthem Opinions

    I urge the SCA BOD to defer action on allocating the $416,000 of surplus from prior years for the following reasons:

    NRED has previously ruled that surplus funds accumulated in a prior year do not have to be allocated to one of the NRS 116 authorized methods of utilization of the funds until the audit for the prior year is complete AND the Board is afforded time (at least 90 days) to evaluate the best use of the surplus funds, as long as the Board disposes of the surplus funds in accordance with NRS 116 prior to the end of the current fiscal year.

    The inability of management to estimate the cost savings from the CoVid-19 closure or an estimate of return-to-service costs means the SCA Board lacks facts to make a fact-based determination of the mount of additional surplus funds or above budget costs that SCA may incur in 2020.

    The larger amount of reserve funds spent in the last three years has adversely impacted the SCA reserves.

    The restoration of the reserve funds will serve as a safeguard against both future annual assessment increases and a special assessment.

    It is already known that the percent of funding of reserve funds is an established need. The avoidance of a special assessment for any purpose, other than an exigent emergency, has serve SCA homeowners well and added to the market value of our property.

    The SCA Board should defer action on the disposition of the 2019 and prior year surplus funds at this time so that future SCA Boards have the full range of options under NRS 116 to determine the best use of such funds.


    1. From Beverly & Dan Ahern...to...Anthem Opinions

      Thank you for keeping us informed so you are aware, I just sent the following email to each board member.

      My husband and I purchased a home in SCA in November.

      One piece of information that we did not have at the time of purchase was how the board had been operating.

      We have been following with great interest several issues that concern us - the self-managed restaurant, the upheaval in the finance committee, the upcoming elections, the GMs salary/contract, and the COVID19 response to name a few.

      We are asking ourselves if we bought into the wrong community given what we have come to understand.

      According to the notice we received about the meeting on Monday, scheduled FOUR days before the ballot count, this board will vote on critical issues.

      We find this objectionable.

      The newly elected board should be voting on audit and tax return and the assessment credit; not this board whose members terms have technically expired.

      We urge you, as well as the other members, to vote NO, thus letting the newly elected board handle these issues.
    2. Beverly & Dan,

      First of all, no, you didn't buy in the wrong area.

      It's beautiful, well maintained, has numerous amenities and some of the most wonderful people; however, every place has its "bad apples" and whereas in most cases you avoid or don't associate with them, it's impossible to ignore those who have control over your life...through Board of Director elections.

      This has been the case for years and mostly ignored as a result of low dues and an "I don't care" attitude that might be acceptable in the short run, but with the passage of time, "mediocre" becomes a standard...a standard that will catch up with you.

      The very idea of any of the current Board members voting "yes" on such important financial issues to commence when a new board will take over in four days, is an insult to the community, and shows the complete lack of character a person has by allowing it to take place.

      Anthem Opinions has always believed all of us deserve the best governance that is financially capable of overseeing an $8-$9 million dollar per year organization, as well as, a friendly attitude when serving us...

      ...but conducting a vote on such vital matters at this late stage of the game, is just another example of the "control freaks" we've tried to tell people about for years.

      Let's hope the right thing prevails and these matters go to a new Board, where they belong.
    1. Beverly & Dan,
      My wife and I moved to SCA 11 months ago; in general I am 100% in agreement with your comments; I wish I knew more about the Board and Management and the lack of transparency in this community prior to buying;
      However, even though I have interacted with Directors; Committees past directors and others since being here, yes way to many lack awareness; honesty and integrity!
      I would happy to name names if you're interested.
      Yet, I have become a member of the Pickelball Club and everybody seems nice and receptive; I have met many people and in most cases there are a lot of very nice people in this community.
      If you have the desire and abilities I would suggest running for the Board or join a committee(Though committees can be difficult depending on the Chairman--do your homework beforehand).
      Also, as you have noted, Anthem Opinions provide important information and allows you to voice your opinion.
      I hope your time here becomes enjoyable.
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