The library has a clean and more spacious look! The new shelves, which match the new cupboard, are "book size," with room for additional volumes, videos, and children's books. Finishing work and trim are scheduled for next week, but shelves have been restocked with paperbacks on the left, hardbacks on the right, and alphabetized by author in each section.

The bookshelves' narrower depth adds more floor inches for the tables. The walls and ceiling have been repainted (with a matching ceiling in the kitchen) to coordinate with the current decor.

The air conditioner has been repaired. The mirror has been rehung.

The new fob entry is programmed for a long re-lock time, to allow residents ample time to get in and out the door with bundles of books.

The board particularly thanks Charlie and Darla Egli, Sheila Metzler, Dave Morrison, Wanda and Tony Smith, and Diane Winters for help with the new look!

Pool entrance fobs and security cameras have made residents feel more comfortable about being alone at the pool, using the restrooms, relaxing and reading. No further incidents of vandalism, theft or unauthorized usage of the pool facilities have been reported since the installation of the security.

Fob FAQ's include:

• How do I get out of the pool area if my spouse took the fob home? A motion-activated "easy exit" button is on the wall of the pool house, near the gate. Wave your hand near the button and the gate opens without a fob.
• Why do I sometimes have to pass the fob by the reader more than once? When using the fobs, have the numbers facing you. The rounded side of the fob activates the reader. You may touch the reader with the fob for more accurate reading.
• When will my extra fobs work? Some residents purchased extra fobs for family members and guests. These fobs have recently been activated by P&M Management.
• I don't have my fobs yet. How do I get them? The undistributed fobs are at Southbridge; you do not need to go to P&M Management in Fort Myers. To set up at time to get your fobs, email [email protected]. Include your name, address and unit number in the email.

The Long-Range Landscape Planning Committee expects to have its findings and suggestions ready for discussion by mid-February. The plan will be a guide for landscape maintenance now, and for improvements in the future. Report features include:

• Plant database to provide a cohesive, colorful, but low-maintenance look for Southbridge
• Color and plant palettes for sun/shade afternoon exposure for four/six unit complexes
• Affordable plan to make the Southbridge entrance more welcoming
• Recommendations for hardscape improvements at the pool
• Recommendations to improve and enhance the common areas for use by the residents

The report will be based on the committee's research into plants recommended for use in Florida, landscape plans by Pelican Landing, the recommendations by JRL Design, tree/shrub feasibility from Estate Landscaping, first-hand experience with successful (and unsuccessful) landscape efforts in Southbridge. Final documents will be posted on the Website.

The committee, headed by board member Mark Weber, includes Kim Adams, Brenda Lanaway, Millie Morrison, and Cyndee Perkins. 

The Southbridge budget for next year includes $12,000 for irrigation water, a necessary investment to keep our community lush and inviting. But many of us are frustrated when it is raining and we see the sprinklers going.

Diane Winters and ​Dave Morrison, president and treasurer of the Southbridge BOD, discussed technologies that are available to monitor water flow and how they could be used in conjunction with our landscape refurbishing project in the future. As an example, smart weather controllers monitor the weather forecast and only water when necessary. Other devices may be available and cost-effective. Dave has implemented water-saving technology devices at his summer home, and has agreed to spearhead the committee.

If you are interested in water conservation, Southbridge improvements, and serving on this research committee, email [email protected].

AKA keep your truck movin' on ...

Reminder: the Declaration of Condominium, Item 12.6 and 12.7 limits personal vehicles in Southbridge to private automobiles and passenger-type vans. Any other vehicle can be towed or booted, without notice to the owner.

All documents that you signed as part of your purchase of a Southbridge condominium are available for your review on the Website.

Like Narcissus, this common moorhen seems to have fallen in love with its own image in the still waters of the creek. Thanks, Charlie Egli, for sharing this photo of the wildlife in Southbridge, as well as the night shot of the community entrance!