Message from the Chair
November 2006

Although it doesn't seem possible, another year is drawing to a close. I want to say thank you to everyone who has helped make Douglas Acres Neighborhood Association - DANA - successful in 2006. I especially thank the other officers and members of the Steering Committee for all their hard work.

            As many of you already know, Douglas Acres has been selected as a "Designated" neighborhood by the Neighborhood Finance Corp. The NFC program was created to help keep neighborhoods strong, and IT IS A GOOD THING FOR EVERYONE WHO LIVES IN DOUGLAS ACRES! I am asking everyone to attend the DANA General Meeting on November 14 to learn more. We will be meeting at Staves United Methodist Church, E 28 & Madison, at 7:00 pm.

I have had quite a few people express their concerns about property values in the neighborhood, and NFC will be an important step in keeping Douglas Acres a desirable place to live, raise families, and retire. At the November 14 meeting, representatives from NFC will be present to explain their program in more detail and answer all of your questions. Please put this date on your calendar right now and make plans to attend.

            To those of you who voted in the recent Des Moines School Board election, thank you! Our neighborhood had a great turnout when compared to some other areas. Please remember to vote on November 7. The local, state, and national officials that are elected really do make a difference in our daily lives. I encourage you to learn where the candidates stand on the issues that are important to you and then vote. If you don't vote, you don't count!      

I’m looking forward to the coming year. Thank you again for helping make DANA great. As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please don't hesitate to give me a call at (515) 453-7339.