Dear Neighbors,

As Hurricane Dennis quickly approaches the panhandle of Florida, we must take a few minutes to ensure that our community and property is properly prepared. In the wake of last year's storms, Camellia Gardens experienced several problems that we are hopeful to mitigate as this storm approaches. Based on the experiences from last year, here is what to consider:

First, the National Weather Service is expecting the hurricane to track somewhere close to the Escambia/Santa Rosa border in the western tip of the panhandle. Under this scenario, the counties to the east (including Leon) will likely see heavy rain and wind. (The most dangerous part of a hurricane is the north-eastern quadrant.)

Second, due to Old Bainbridge Road's tree canopy, expect power outages lasting from 24-48 hours. While the neighborhood was still in construction last year, the few residents that had moved in found that our power was the first to go out, and nearly the last to come back on. High winds, ranging from an expected 40 to 80 MPH will result in loose and untied objects become projectiles.  For both safety and fiscal liability reasons, we are asking that all personal property (small signs, decorative lights, plastic chairs, small grills, and the like) be placed inside your unit for the duration of this storm.

Third, in addition to these expectations, the Board of Directors is encouraging any neighbor who may require special assistance during this time to contact us at OurCommunity@CamelliaGardens.org. We are concerned for those requiring life-aiding electrical medical equipment, those who might require transportation to area shelters, and those requiring medical refrigeration. If any of these apply, and you need assistance, please ask a neighbor or contact us as soon as possible. For the latest information on Hurricane Dennis, please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org.

Thank you again for all of your efforts in ensuring that Camellia Gardens remains the beautiful and safe community that we have all envisioned.

Best Regards,

Michael T. Turner
President/Chief Executive Officer
Camellia Gardens Condominiums Association, Inc.