While our arbitration continues following the favorable outcome of our litigation, I’d like to shift focus to something more uplifting—our landscaping.

Although our Grounds Committee has been relatively quiet lately—largely because much of our discretionary funding has been directed toward legal expenses—there’s still been great progress around the property. Our maintenance crew has stepped up in a big way, learning to trim bushes and tackle other landscaping tasks, saving the Association a considerable amount of money. When they’re not fixing leaks or handling building issues, they’ve even taken time to help with weeding.

Every few years, we bring in a tree company to trim branches that hang over roofs or balconies, or that otherwise need attention. We’re hoping to have them return this fall. In the meantime, the four entrance beds, which were professionally redone a couple of years ago, are thriving. A number of residents have also pitched in with weeding or tending small garden areas.

All in all, despite our financial constraints, Summit View is looking pretty darn good!

Alisande

Regarding the ongoing litigation concerning Summit View’s rights to the Community Building, our attorney has officially submitted the final arbitration brief, marking a significant milestone in this long-running legal process. While nothing is certain, we are cautiously optimistic that the matter may be resolved in Summit View’s favor within the next few months. This would be a welcome conclusion to a dispute that has impacted our community for some time.

We understand that legal proceedings can be slow and sometimes frustrating. Thank you for your continued patience and support throughout this process.

We’ve noticed that the dumpster doors are oftten left open—which can lead to unpleasant odors, surprise visits from varmints, and swarms of flies greeting the next person who drops off their trash. To keep things clean (and less startling!), please be sure to close the dumpster doors securely after use. It makes a big difference for everyone. Thanks for your help in keeping Summit View tidy and pest-free!

Good news to share: We are looking into an extra pick-up to reduce dumpster overflow!

Susan calls herself a "gypsy" — not in the literal sense, but because life has taken her on many moves. Still, her heart has always circled back to her hometown: St. Clair Shores, Michigan. It was from there, about a year ago, that she made her way to Summit View.

Susan’s roots in St. Clair Shores included eight years of ballet and a role on her high school newspaper staff. She went on to earn both her BA and MA from Wayne State University, followed by paralegal training that led to a 25-year career with a major Detroit law firm. Much of her work involved acting as the firm’s liaison in complex asbestos and securities litigation.

Her journey continues with books, travel, and a cruise on The Nile. Read more here!