Message From The Otta President, Fern Bomchill Davis

Hello OTTA Members and Friends,

Welcome to 2009 and your new OTTA officers and Board of Directors. As a preliminary manner, I regret that I was unable to greet many of you in person at the January 22 Annual Meeting. Our "inaugural ball" was not black tie and did not cost in the millions, but I know it was enjoyed by many. Unlike the D.C. soirees, we get to have the party every year. So please put the fourth Thursday in January 2010 in your calendars (digital or otherwise).

In the meantime, just like our government in D.C., this year we have goals we wish to accomplish and processes by which we wish to accomplish these goals. My "platform" is to have the OTTA available and useful to all people in the community. We are not just after membership numbers; we want all the Triangle members to know each other and use the resources of the association. And if there is a resource that is needed that we don't have, let's identify what we need and get it.

I have been a resident of the Triangle for 36 years and a proud member of the OTTA Board since the mid-1990s. However, the truth is that I lived in the community for 12 years before I knew the association even existed and another few years before I ever met a member. Our communication in the neighborhood has vastly improved, but we can still better serve our residents. And just like our country's new President, I want the workings of our association to be transparent and inclusive.

I need your help. We want to meet you! We have monthly Board meetings – the second Tuesday of each month beginning at 7 PM in the Triangle offices (1763 N. North Park). Join us to hear what we are doing and what we are deliberating. Tell us what you and your neighbors want and what you and your neighbors need. Most of you know about the Art Fair, but do you know about our art classes, art openings, and yoga exercises? Do you want a book club or bridge lessons? Would you like to help with the neighborhood boy scouts? How about wine-tasting parties for new residents, square dancing or cooking lessons since you remodeled your kitchen? Are you uncomfortable coming to the Christmas get-togethers because you don't know anyone?

You can stop by the office and talk to Shirley and Leslie, our administrators. Email me or any of the Board members or go onto our website at www.oldtowntriangle.com. I know you are filled to the brim with work and family activities, but try us out for something different or something you need. For those with a little more time or interest, get actively involved. Yes, we need Art Fair committee members and volunteers, but we also need members for other committees, such as Neighborhood Improvements, Membership, Historic District, Gallery, and for periodic programs and community activities. Let us know what you would like to do. Maybe we are missing a committee you think we need. Please stop by the office or send us an email. Let us know.

Have an easy rest of the Winter. Remember, Spring is in sight!