A Senior’s Observations, Opinions and Rantings
Senior Moments
Do you like intrigue stories filled with suspense, plotting, clandestine meetings, patrols under the cloak of darkness in a place where alliances are forged through deceit, fear and false promises?
We have witnessed it throughout history, albeit on a much larger scale. But people are people and follow leaders for inexplicable reasons in expectation of a better life.
Is this some miniseries about the CIA or the British MI6, or perhaps the making of a new John Le Carré novel? Hardly; this was the underbelly of a recent voting process for a homeowners association board and its president in a 55-and-over community.
I initially wrote about my experiences with the HOA board in a column headlined, “HOA Going Astray,” published in the April 25, 2025, edition of Shore Local Newsmagazine. At that time, I thought I had seen it all; but wait, just like the old Ginsu knife ad – there’s more.
I have spoken to friends who also live in an area where they must abide by HOA rules which, in themselves, may seem quite petty. But evidently some people who are on these boards, pathetically, have little else to occupy their days.
As a former board member, I understand there are going to be differences of opinion between reasonable people, however in a 55-and-over community it must be expected. In some cases, people are physically, emotionally or mentally compromised so there is not exactly a deep bench of competent candidates for an HOA board. This was the case we were facing in our community during a recent HOA election.
The posturing and performances of some of the candidates were worthy of an Academy Award and embarrassing and pathetic to witness.
While planning a recent road trip, I opened my Google Maps app. The entire United States came up. I zoomed in to my state, then to my county, and continued to my city, my community and finally, our building. It made me realize just how insignificant some of these people are and how little effect they actually have on the grander scheme of things. I viewed them as grains of sand, even though they viewed themselves as paragons of power influence, but over what?
As it turned out, elections were held and most people saw who the wizard behind the curtain really was. Voters not only dashed any aspirations the candidate might have had of becoming president; this person wasn’t even elected to the board.
Of course, there are those who would follow the candidate into a burning building, something akin to the political climate we have seen in recent years. Fortunately more sane minds have prevailed, for now.
After a time, perhaps a period of mourning, the drums of restlessness are beating again, albeit faintly. The performers are practicing in the wings, but the sequel will be disappointing.
This time, few are paying it any mind. They see that it is the same old script, repackaged as new and improved, but still riddled with unscrupulousness and hubris.
There are board members everywhere who honestly, and unselfishly, donate their time, energy and experience to make their communities flourish while fending off the occasional slings and arrows.
My hat is off to them for a job well done.
Charles Eberson has been in the newspaper business for over 25 years. He has worked as a writer, advertising executive, circulation manager and photographer. His photography can be viewed at charles-eberson.fineartamerica.com
