Clubhouse Equipment

Money, I Raised for Clubhouse Equipment

Theft of $7218.50 that’s what is in question.

The amount I raised with my volunteers to get sound equipment for the clubhouse to enhance the overall experience for our members.

To clarify, Carolyn Rossi suggested a fundraiser to me using Joe Patton as the auctioneer. She believed it would be a great opportunity to engage more members and generate excitement about the clubhouse.

I took her suggestion, organized the event, and raised $7218.50 for equipment for the clubhouse.

Ed Farington, the HOA Treasurer at the time, agreed to hold onto the money to address any concerns about impropriety regarding the funds. The decision provided a layer of security for both me and the community members who contributed.

That money was raised by me with the help of others and held until I was able to spend it. As you know, Hurricane Ian delayed my ability to obtain the equipment (Remember the clubhouse was closed foe 2 years). With the renovations completed and the 2025/206 season coming, it is now more important than ever to install the new sound equipment.

The HOA is now trying to give the money I raised To Mary Ward and the Residents board to spend on sound tiles.

The clubhouse was remodeled, excluding carpeting and curtains that were suggested for sound deadening. The HOA Board was informed that this would contribute to excessive noise and would require something in the future.

That’s fine but not with the money I and my volunteers raised.

Why did I set my sights on new equipment? I could not obtain the funds needed from the HOA.

After several discussions and proposals, it became clear that the budget constraints were too tight for any meaningful upgrades. I did receive enough to replace the old, outdated speakers; however, they were insufficient for “Friday Night Socials” or anything else, for that matter. With the right equipment, we could host lively events without worrying about sound quality or disruptions. The ceiling speakers fill the entire room, including over the tables where people are trying to converse. This way, conversations would flow smoothly without the interference of poor sound systems.

Getting a modern stage-mounted system with sound focused on the dance floor seemed a much better option for those sitting and those dancing.

Having our own equipment—speakers, mixer, amp, karaoke machine, Bluetooth for hearing aids, and functional microphones—is a far superior choice.

Overall, investing in quality sound equipment enhances the experience for everyone involved. It also allows us to have events without paying someone to do them, just like “Friday Night Social” was intended.

"This blog is exactly why I returned to creating a website again! I have sent numerous letters to the Board of Directors on this pressing subject, yet I have received no response, and they seem to be moving forward with sound tiles. It has been incredibly disheartening to experience censorship on both of the residents' Facebook pages, where my attempts to share information have been stifled. If you could kindly assist me in voicing this critical issue, please consider sending an email to the BOD at [email protected], letting them know that you did not donate for sound tile project that will ultimately have no meaningful impact on preserving or improving the same old environment we all know far too well. Your support could make a significant difference in raising awareness about this matter."

Dale...

The information I used for my event

As Predicted, the "Slide of Hand"

HOA is saying they have absolutely nothing to do with the Residents Association funds. It’s interesting to note this stance, especially considering the Residents Association had no involvement whatsoever with my fundraiser! It makes me wonder how they can distance themselves from these financial matters while also being so involved in community affairs.

Next Steps

Send certified letter to the HOA, Mike Espanola and Mary Ward using an attorney.
Use a collection agency to go after the above to get the $7218.50 I raised for the clubhouse
Purchase the equipment that I commited to for our residents.