i'm a partner in a project that hired the firm of reuben and junius. their representation in this case will not have any effect on my decision. >> clerk: okay. thank you. so the parties will have three minutes each, and then, we'll have time for public comment. so we'll hear from a representative for the appellant first, mr. thomas gersey, i believe, will be representing the appellant. >> that is right. thank you very much. i am a member of bright line defense, representing malcom yeung. as far as a status update, we regret to inform the board that the sides remain far apart after negotiations between alan law and mr. reuben. while negotiations are on going, we still believe that the letter of determination should be overturned. there's been no actual use, and it would be ripe for the board to make a decision of abandonment at this time. thank you. >> clerk: okay. thank you. we will now hear from a representative of the property owner, mr. reuben. >> can you hear me? >> clerk: yes, we can. welcome. >> thank you. i wish i could say it's nice to be here.