Journal Notes – December 2021

by Michael Hamline, Editor / Published December 2021

     This December 2021 is a time for gratitude, reflection, and celebration. Gratitude for God’s gift of science to humankind that allows for COVID-19 vaccines to be developed and distributed in record time. Gratitude also for the blessing of family and friends and having time to spend with them. Reflection on what this year has brought—good and bad, blessing and suffering, life and death—and what it means for each one of us as we anticipate 2022. Celebration comes in the form of a variety of holidays observed by most Americans. Hannukah began the evening of November 28 and ends the evening of December 6. Christmas, with its joyful remembrance of the promised Christ child, Jesus, will be celebrated on December 25. Kwanzaa is a celebration of life focusing on the importance of community for African Americans and is held December 26 through January 1.

     In the pages of the Florida Community Association Journal, December is a time to celebrate those in the legal profession. On page eight more than 55 attorneys are profiled who are dedicated to community associations. Many of these attorneys have gone above and beyond by obtaining their board certification in condominium and planned development law from the Florida Bar. A profile photo, contact information including city location, and a 50-word description are provided to help familiarize your communities with some of the attorneys who have chosen to excel in legal representation of community associations.

     From pages 22 to 52 multiple legal topics from five different Florida law firms are addressed in detail. The articles address the following community association topics: tenant vetting approvals, evaluations for service and emotional support animals, deconstruction of the construction contract, the recommendations to Florida lawmakers that came out of a task force looking into the Surfside tragedy, the limits of free speech, and privacy issues. There is plenty of information to absorb and digest.

     FLCAJ wishes you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!

Editor